I KNEW IT WAS GOING TO BLOW UP.  A simple question, asked kindly and thoughtfully at the dinner table, when we were all together on Sunday...

... would I like the answer?

Why did I even ask it?

Will we ever eat together again, as a family?

It was stupid,
I should have let it go.

But, when your kid's are making decisions for their kids, and their kids' kids...

... you've got to know why they are voting that way.

What are you voting for...

• giant orange rolls
• or
• green beans and bacon

... on Thanksgiving?

Little did I know they are split...

• carb-free always
• blow off the diet on holidays

... evenly.

It's a toss up over here.

How is it at your place?

WHAT WE USE FOR FUEL MATTERS because it propels us.  We study it, we buy it, we consume it.  But...

... is it consuming us?

Why am I in bed early,
out the door before the sunrises?

Is it...

• to win the trinket?
• prove the doubters wrong?

... that will be fulfilling?

Or, do I define success on my terms,
with metrics that matter to me,
that endless fascinate,
and captivate...

... what is possible?

===

165.9 bs 
8 hrs sleep 
No strength work
10 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling  

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

OUR LOCAL FOREST BURNED DOWN last month.  Not all of it, but over 23.000 acres of beautiful mountains.  Along with it, we lost...

... some of our best trails.

Trails that had made many magazine covers.

They're gone,
destroyed,
closed.

Today, I rode up to where the fire had burned.

Branchless sticks replaced our lovely scrub brush and ancient oak and pine trees.

Everything was charred and naked.

And, then I saw it.

In the pic above, there is a little tiny green plant pushing through the blackened soil.

It's so vibrant,
valiant.

Isn't that a perfect representation of racing, of life?

We train,
we enter,
we battle... 

... we resist everything that is fighting against us.

When we cross the line,
we collapse.

There is nothing left to give.

We swear will never do such insanity again, and a month later...

... there is a little bit of yearning starting to sprout.

It's not recreation we are after...

... it's re-creation.

And, it's good.

===

166 bs 
8 hrs sleep 
No strength work
0 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling  

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

WHY DO WE BELIEVE SOME THINGS AND NOT OTHERS?  Pretty simple, we've found them to be true through our own experiences.  Sometimes good, sometimes bad...

... always teaching us something.

Every Day Is RaceDay.

That's a truth.

It doesn't mean we actually pin on a number and throw down every day of our lives...

... it means what we do every day matters.

Every thing matters.

Every action.

They all combine and build on each other...

... whether we like it or not.

That's why having a plan is so important.

The plan could be to...

• take it easy
• be lazy
• rest

... but, it's planned.

Just like...

• do base miles
• lift weights
• intervals

... is planned.

Good Plans = Good Results

===

166 bs 
8 hrs sleep 
PullUps, PushUps, Squats & Stuff
10 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling  

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

YOU KNOW WHEN YOU'RE GOING TO RACE, it's on the calendar.  It is so far into the future, you don't really care about it.  But, you should because...

... starting early matters.

Whether the course is the same ever year, or changes every year, getting acquainted with it can make a big difference in success.

Still, we don't.

At least, most don't.

And, if we do, we just look at the distance and think...

... Oh, I've gone that far before.

 Or, maybe...

... I'll start training tomorrow.

But, do we?

No,
not even.

The route,
the passage of time,
and, our ability to overcome obstacles..

... never winds up according to our plans.

We can either plan early,
plan well...

... and make minor course corrections along the way.

Or, we can skip the planning,
wing it...

... and wonder What the heck happened?

Either way,
we will line up and race...

... how we finish is on us.

===

165.3 bs 
8 hrs sleep 
PullUps, PushUps, Squats & Stuff
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling  

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

A NUMBER OF YEARS AGO, I quit wearing shoes for anything other than riding, running and hiking.  One of the many benefits is...

... I never get cold feet.

I mean I do, 
but not like I used to.

Back in day of shoes, as soon as the temperature dipped I'd throw on the toe covers or booties.

Not any more.

So, when my kid called to complain about the cold sand during his sunrise walks...

... I had to shame him.

Suck it up!... it's good for your circulation, getting blood movement down in your feet, and good to connect with the earth, and good to feel some discomfort.  : )

Did I walk our daughter down the aisle in flipflops?

Yep.

What about a nice dinner with Surfergirl?

Yep.

On the way to the slopes for a day of skiing?

For sure.

Not church?!

Yep.

 Why Todd... why would you do such a thing?

Well, my feet starting hurting in regular shoes.

I probably rode them into the ground, 
and destroyed them.

Not only am I...

• quick to ditch the shoes walking into a home
• infinitely more comfortable every day
• using my lower leg muscles

... I get to shock everyone else on those cold morning!

Before you say, Bro you live where the weather is great all the time, trust me...

... 39 degrees with humidity is very C O L D.

AERO FRAMES ARE SO SEXY.  Just one look, and t's hard to imagine anything but going fast on them.  Unfortunately...

... looks aren't everything.

What about the things we can't see?

Here's a short list...

• Bearings - wheels, bottom brackets, pulleys, pedals
• Teeth wear - cassette, chain rings
• Lubes - chain, pulley
• Tire pressure

... of things we don't see or notice.

There's all kinds of speed to be gained or lost on those four things.

So while we might be intimated by the fancy aero bike, and aero does matter, there's a whole bunch we can't see or don't notice or neglect that matter.  A lot.

And, what about the bodies of other athletes?

You know the racer who is lean, 
or has great muscle tone?

That can be intimidating, too.

But, wouldn't it be much more telling to know their...

• power to weight ratio
• nutrition strategy
• VO2 Max
• readiness

... before we make a judgement?

My pal Pete and I were training a lot years ago.  

We were decently fast on bikes.

So, we decided to do a 10k.

What could be so hard about a 6 mile jaunt?

We figured we'd crush it.

Around mile 4, I was dying.

My body hurt, and I was barely moving.

Suddenly I'm being passed by...

• on ol' lady in a Juicy Courtier sweatshirt
• a chubby dude with rubbing thighs
• and some cat in flipflops 

... it was very humbling.

The point is,
we can be awed by the sexy and shiny stuff, or...

... we can focus on improving what we have.

=== 

As I'm typing this, Surfergirl stops by for a goodnight kiss with a Hagen Daz bar in hand.

Where did you get that?

The freezer.

Did you hide it from me?

You told me not to let you be tempted.

Ugh!

===

165.3 lbs 
8 hrs sleep 
PullUps, PushUps, Squats & Stuff
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling  

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

MY DENTIST IS SO ANNOYING.  The dentistry is great, but he's a sadist when I'm in the chair.  One of these days...

... I'm going to get even with him!

He's like your worst training partner.

You know the type...

• We're doing all we can to relax
• keep a grip on our emotions
• our hearts are pounding
• our lungs exploding

... and Mr. I'm In Control is talking.

Talking!

As if it's nothing to be doing 400 watts up a hill.

That's how he is with his diabolical drill in hand...

• Chatting away,
• asking about the family,
• sharing some juicy gossip.

... and all I can do is grunt.

Well, I'll tell ya,
if I ever get him out on a bike...

... I'm going to yak it up and half-wheel him until he pukes.

That's the kind of friend I am,
and I've been friends with this Dr. Day since we were wee lads.

===

165.8 lbs 
8 hrs sleep 
PullUps, PushUps, Squats & Stuff
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling  

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

AT SOME POINT,  the race always gets tough.  Could be a blistering rush for the single track, missing out on a powerful break, dust so thick it chokes and blinds.  In all cases...

... there's a demon to be fought.

How do we prepare for that?

As the great Mike Tyson said...

... Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the nose.

First off, our plan needs to go beyond the initial encounter.

You know...

... getting punched has to be part of our plan.

It's gonna happen.

And, it's not so much preparing to be hit that matters,
as knowing what it feels like, that it will pass,
that we can and will recover.

As the great Paul Simon lyrics from The Boxer reminds us...

And he carries the reminders
Of every glove that laid him down
Or cut him till he cried out
In his anger and his shame
"I am leaving, I am leaving"
But the fighter still remains

... we are fighters.

The great Pat Benatar sang...

Knock me down, it's all in vain
I'll get right back on my feet again

... Hit me with your best shot.

=== 

Last Call

The Ugly Sweater Jersey offer ends 10.28.

When you purchase an Ugly Sweater Jersey, we'll include:

• Matching Skull Cap $32
• Matching Socks........... $20
• Giant RaceDay Calendar ............ $37

... $89 dollars in product for FREE.

Check 'em out: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/ugly-sweater-collection

Check 'em out: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/ugly-sweater-collection

===

166.2 lbs 
8 hrs sleep 
No Strength Work
0 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling  

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

THE OFF SEASON isn't the... Time to get on the couch season. But, it is a good time to back it off.  The main "it" being...

... training volume.

Now it is time to bank things for the coming year.

What can we do with the shorter days,
the freed up training time,
the unfocus?

Let me just call myself out right here...

... we can pay extra special attention to anyone who might have been inadvertently backburnerd.

Here are 5 less important things, than the above, that I'm personally working on...

• getting stronger via weight training
• improving my flexibility via stretching
• climbing ability via driving to longer climbs
• decreasing my weight via cleaning up my diet
• balance via moves and activities the require greater balance

... while decreasing my overall time commitment.

Other than actually driving to do longer climbs, and I'm talking about climbs of 60+ minutes...

... everything can be done at home.

Weight training, is easy to do first thing in the morning while my brain is waking up.

Stretching, while watching/learning on YouTube.

Cleaning up my diet, that's just picking better stuff at the grocery store.

Balance moves, for me that's a two-fer because Surfergirl, who apparently likes having me around, like to surf.

It just takes some commitment, and maybe...

... picking up some used weights off of Facebook Marketplace.

And, if we do it, we'll head into 2025 with a much better base than we ended with in 2024.

What are your 5 or 3 or 1 thing(s) to work on this off season?

===

Friendly reminder, the Ugly Sweater Jersey offer ends 10.28.

When you purchase an Ugly Sweater Jersey, we'll include:

• Matching Skull Cap $32
• Matching Socks........... $20
• Giant RaceDay Calendar ............ $37

... $89 dollars in product for FREE.

Check 'em out: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/ugly-sweater-collection

Check 'em out: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/ugly-sweater-collection

===

167.3 lbs 
8 hrs sleep 
No Strength Work
0 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling  

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

WHAT'S WITH DEATH AND RACING?  My pal Brian is off to run (run! not ride) 100 freakin' miles.  Ironman starts off with a 2 mile swim in the open ocean. For most competitors, Unbound's 200 miles are so outrageous...

... they are thrilled if they can finish.

Do we really believe...

... What doesn't kill me makes me stronger?

Why do we say...

... I'll rest when I'm dead?

What is the draw to push and push?

For example, 3 days after my surgery...

• I woke with my right eye almost swollen shut
• a nagging, persistent headache
• and a lot of fatigue

... did it keep me from going out for an afternoon spin today?.

Nope.

Why do we ignore our bodies, doctors, family, friends...

... and keep charging?

For me, and I'm guessing you...

• movement is the default
• sunshine is the antidote
• gulping air is euphoric

... this is how we live.

We might rest when we die,
the overwhelming challenge might make us stronger...

.. in truth, a lot of racing is discovering how mighty we really are.

===

And, yes, this a might special Ugly Sweater Jersey offer...

When you purchase an Ugly Sweater Jersey, we'll include:

• Matching Skull Cap $32
• Matching Socks........... $20
• Giant RaceDay Calendar ............ $37

... $89 dollars in product for FREE.

Check 'em out: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/ugly-sweater-collection

Check 'em out: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/ugly-sweater-collection

===

170 lbs
8 hrs sleep 
PullUps, PushUps, Squats
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling  

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

SOMETIMES THE START LINE reminds me of a bunch of peacocks.  Fancy threads, trim bodies, glistening muscles, and beautiful, shiny machinery.  Everyone nervously sizing each other up, and...

... none of it matters. 

 Don't get me wrong.

I love looking sharp,
polishing the bike,
feeling ready.

But, it's actually pretty fun to show up looking ugly...

• dirty bike
• ratty clothing
• hairy legs and scruffy face

... because some peacocks will be dismissive after a quick glance.

They'll fail to notice...

• the drivetrain is pristine
• the clothes are aero
• the body is ready

... someone is primed to get after it.

It's weird,
and it totally works.

Not on everybody, 
just some.

We're wired that way.

To make quick assessments and move on.

Maybe it's a survival mechanism.

I was thinking about that today as my forehead showed the effects of the trauma endured in surgery this week...

... fluid pooled at my eyebrows making me look like a an old basset hound.

Uhhh-gleee!

So, let's celebrate it...

When you purchase an Ugly Sweater Jersey, we'll include...

• Matching Skull Cap $32
• Matching Socks........... $20
• Giant RaceDay Calendar ............ $37

... $89 dollars in product for FREE.

Check 'em out: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/ugly-sweater-collection

===

172.5 
8 hrs sleep 
PullUps, PushUps, Squats
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling  

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

AIN'T NOTHIN' WRONG WITH N+1 when it comes to bikes.  We've all got our eye on something, needed or not.  That's how I wound up with a gravel bike, which I love.  But...

... N+1 isn't always the right answer.

After my brain injury, I was having trouble with my eyes tracking correctly.

It was annoying.

The gravel riding around here is pretty rocky, which was made extra challenging as my brain is healing.

I'd hit the rough stuff, 
and the eyes would scramble.

Not the best feeling when you're flying downhill.

I had a HUGE breakthrough on Monday, right before my surgery.

My son came over for a quick MTB ride,
I think he thought it could be the last one, 
and wanted to get dropped by the old man one more time.

Anyway, we're bombing down this single track that I hit all the time on my gravel bike and...

• my eyes are steady
• I have way better control
• going much faster than on gravel bike

... I realize, the MTB is much better suited to rough and rocky single track.

Doh!

Now, you might be thinking Of course it is ya dummy!

Which is exactly what I was thinking.

Here's the thing.

It's not N+1...

• I love road
• gravel
• mtb

... it's which 1 is right for the terrain.

And, that's my dirty secret
I like all kinds of terrain
and challenges.

--

171.5 (anxiety eating  uh-oh!)
6.5 hrs sleep 
PullUps, PushUps, Squats
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling  

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

THE FIRST THING THEY DID was check my vitals.  They wanted to know if I was in good enough shape to receive the treatment.  I just wanted to see if...

... if my body was as freaked out as me. 

Me:  How are the vitals lookin'?

Nurse: Are you a runner?

... my thoughts:  apparently not, because I sure didn't outrun this...

Me: I ride my bike some.

Yes, I downplayed it because nobody gets what we do, right?!

But, maybe they should because it feels right nice to see these numbers and know they aren't by accident.

Meaning, heaven forbid, we find ourselves in this situation, it's dang nice to know we are ready to withstand the procedure.

Next, docs...

• numbed me
• knocked me out,
• screwed a jig into my skull

... to hold my head in place for MRI and surgery

Here is where God winked at me.

The tech operating the MRI looked familiar,
asked me if I knew how she was,
yep, I see her every Sunday.

As I slid into the machine, tears flowed down my face...

... I wasn't alone.

Next, I had a 2 hour wait for the gamma knife...

... my chance to crush all pros with a Bruce Bannon experience of my own.

72 minutes later, apparently brain radiation is precise,
I was back on my own two feet.

Me: How'd it go?

Doc: As expected, now go home and forget about it.

So, I did,
and will clear the thoughts asap.

Frustrations...

• finding the right medical solution takes work
• the insurance situation is a clown show
• still had to pay cash

... hours on the phone every day for months.

Takeaways...

• live healthy
• do our check ups
• follow up on oddities

... had I taken action sooner I could have preserved more of my hearing, and had fewer minor issues

Miracles...

• January brain injury discovers growing, non-cancerous tumor before the symptoms get a lot worse
• getting nowhere on good options, my pal Sten Kramer recommends 
• Dr Duma, who is a leader in this field and just a few miles away

... are happening all the time. 

Thank you for all the prayers, support and good vibes and thoughts...

... it makes a difference,
regardless of the outcome.

See ya soon!

166.2 lbs
6' 0"
45 beats per minute
99% blood oxygen
111/71 blood pressure 
100% likelihood of returning to beast mode
20% chance of harnessing beast on demand (no change there)

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

I HAD TO FILL OUT SOME MEDICAL FORMS, don't we all?, and I could see the ethnicity question.  I filled it out, and wished we had a better way to identify ourselves...

... one which is more accurate.

There is a story about a people that were fair and delightful.  

At first, I thought it was so cringe.

Racist.

Then, I read a little slower and more thoughtfully.

They...

• dealt justly with each other
• had equal opportunities
• no class divisions

... how cool is that?

Upon reflection, they treated each other fairly and were delightful to be around.

Unlike most people...

... life isn't always fair.

Shift happens.

Maybe that's how we learn to be fair?

We get cheated at a race,
we understand how important it is to play by the rules.

A pullup bar broke,
I suffered a brain injury.

Not fair.

Or, was it?

When they scanned my brain, they found a non-malignant tumor.

Dang!

Sucks to be me.

But, I guess that's the thing about skin color.  It doesn't mean much...

... it's what's inside that counts.

Anyway, we gotta get this thing out.

The main symptom I have is hearing loss in my right ear, which is why lately...

... I'm always trying to ride on your right side : )

The symptoms will get worse with time,
way worse.

Here's what fair:

I never in a million years would have made the connection or gone to the doctor to get my brain scanned.

No way.

I'm a healthy athlete... with my head in the sand on proactive health stuff - aka dumb!

Here's the plan.

Tomorrow, I'm getting into a giant microwave,
my entire body will be covered in ice so I don't cook...

... okay, that's not true.

The doc will use a gamma knife to nuke the hell outta that thing.

Think of a magnifying glass that burns paper, only this baby is radiation burning the lump in my skull...

... ie: tech that is cooler than electric shifting and hydraulic brakes.

Tech that is cooler than electric shifting and hydraulic brakes.

Apparently, I will feel nothing,
walk on out a few hours later...

... and ride my bike Wednesday (If I want).

Speaking of feeling,
if ya feel like praying for me and the docs...

... I'll take it.

Love ya all, wish us luck!

--

166.4 lbs 
8 hrs sleep 
PullUps, PushUps, Squats
2 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling  

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

AS ATHLETES, we almost always feel out of place.  Bad at eating, bad at sleeping, bad at couchpotatoing, bad at being "normal"...

... until we realize we have muscles, tendons, and heart.

We can chase down anything.

We aren't meant to eat crap,
shun sleep,
lay around.

As the great Eric Liddel said...

... God made me fast, and when I run, I feel his pleasure.

Believe in God or not, that adrenaline feeling is...

• unmistakable
• addicting
• powerful

... because that is how we are meant to live.

And, as long as we can,
we will.

--

164.2 lbs 
8 hrs sleep 
No Strength Work
0 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling  

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

AFTER PASSING, BUT NOT BEING PASSED, by the same guy 3 times, after seeing a competitor cut the course to jump ahead of the rider blocking 7 of us on the single track, after going off course countless times, after realizing it wasn't gonna be my day and heading straight back to the car...

... the promotor waived me by.

He knew I was off course,
was just glad to get me back on course.

At that point, I had a serious conversation with myself.

Not...

• if the promotor and officials don't care enough to mark the course properly
• if course cutting is going to be rampant and tolerated
• if we should have been on mountain vs gravel bikes

... not any of those things.

What could I have done better?

Oh, trust me, the list is long.

But, the serious part of the conversation revolved around...

• Am I doing too much?
• Do I need a break?
• What is the point?

... this year has already presented me with all kinds of off-the-bike challenges.

Perhaps the rush to get back to normal after the brain injury was too much, too fast.

Maybe it is time for a reset, 
a reevaluation?

In a sense, I'm glad today turned out the way it did because as we roll into the end of the year...

... it is a wonderful time for reflection.

What we can do better...

... spiritually, socially, mentally, and, yes, physically?

The timing is perfect.

I've had Tuesday on my RaceDay calendar for months...

... not a race or training,

Yeah, to make the RaceDay Calendar function properly...

... EVERYTHING WE WANT TO GET DONE, must be on there.

Here's the dealio.

When you purchase a Chroma Jersey, we'll include...

• A Giant RaceDay Calendar. $37
• Pair of our Race Gloves........... $35
• Pair of our Race Socks ............ $15

... $97 dollars in product for FREE.

CLICK TO PURCHASE

• Weeks are Monday through Sunday, so see the entire race weekend
• See all the annual goals at once
• 27" Wide x 48" Tall 

 

CLICK TO PURCHASE

--

164 lbs 
7 hrs sleep 
No Strength Work
0 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling  

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

THE LAST FEW WEEKS HAVE BEEN HECTIC.  When that happens, I tend to increase (by a lot) the comfort food.  Which means...

.. I've put on a few pounds.

And, I'm happy about that.

What?

A race nerd happy with a few extra pounds?

What in the heck is the world coming to?

Welp, consider these facts...

• it's going to be 39 degrees at the start
• the prospect for wind is alway high
• my competitors are bone thin

... and a little insulation is sounding smart.

For a race nerd, I'm already a little heavy...

... at least for climbing.

But, this course bills it self as mostly flat.

Am I banking only on my blubber?

Not even.

Planning to start with the following...

• a warming base layer
• bibs with pockets (extra fabric)
• my skull cap under the helmet
• pro jersey
• Fly Vest (talked about yesterday)
• arm warmers
• KOM jacket
• Camelbak

... and it'll all come off in that order.

The KOM jacket,
at the start.

After one lap,
I'll ditch the vest and warmers.

Should be in the 50s by then.

I'll also swap Camelbaks... 

... complete units, not just the bladder.

I'm going with Camelbaks for two reasons...

• a little extra warmth on my back
• a good chuck of the course is single track

... plus, there's bound to be sand in the high-desert, and bottles would be that much more tricky to drink from.

The start is at 7am,
and, it is 110 miles away.

I could go early in the morning,
but, I think it will be more restful to go tonight and sleep in the van.

I'm tell you all that because we have two choices...

• moan and groan
• see the advantages

... when we see less than ideal conditions.

Increase our odds of success always happens...

... when we see the good that can happen.

 Which is exactly how...

• the founders of this country
• the immigrants legal and illegal
• the willing and unwilling to come

... made it here, and flourished.

The saw what was possible,
took gambles,
worked hard.

We celebrate that every time we vote.

I'm wearing this jersey a lot this month, 
as a reminder to all who see me.

And, I think I'carry that spirit right into the new year.

Here's the dealio.

When you purchase this Patriot Jersey, we'll include...

• Giant Patriot RaceDay Calendar. $37
• Pair of our Patriot Gloves ........... $35
• Pair of our Patriot Socks ............ $15

... $97 dollars in product for FREE.

Buy Now!

Buy Now!

Why this Giant RaceDay Calendar is so awesome...

• Your goals are front and center
• You can see the whole year at once, 27" Wide X 48" Tall
• Weeks are Monday thru Sunday, so you can plan your weekends around the race

When you purchase this Patriot Jersey, we'll include...

• Giant Patriot RaceDay Calendar. $37
• Pair of our Patriot Gloves ........... $35
• Pair of our Patriot Socks ............ $15

... $97 dollars in product for FREE.

Buy Now!

--

164 lbs 
8.5 hrs sleep 
No Strength Work
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling  

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

MOST OF WHAT WE DO OVER HERE stems from my pet peeves.  Things that drive me crazy, or are just flat out missing from the marketplace.  It takes time to develop...

... but, it's totally worth it.

Packing for rides and races used to be a chore...

... hence, the RaceDay Bag™.

So, what's next, that we gotta have?

Should I wait 'till 100% ready?

No, because you might have some insight.

Here's one of 'em.

The Fly Vest.

What it does...

• A hole to access the jersey pockets alleviating need for vest pockets or moving things to jersey when vest is stowed away
• It's a super lightweight vest which easily fits in a jersey pocket
• Wind/waterproof fabric keeps you warm

... while being extremely aero and form fitting.

We're in the final stages of prototyping.

What else is coming?

Stay tuned... 

--

164.9 lbs
8.5 hrs sleep 
PullUps PushUps
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling  

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

When making a purchase I always go for the best quality available.  I like things that last a long time and are extremely reliable.  Given enough time and wear and tear...

... nearly everything breaks.

Here's the truth I've discovered, and it's not just bike parts...

... the replacement is almost always way better.

I was reminded this on a ride recently with a heartbroken friend.  The love of his life...

... had left.

Having had my own share of love gone wrong, I could relate.  I could also share the big picture, everyone of those girlfriends was replaced with someone better...

... and finally with Surfergirl.

Just this week my bookkeeper let me know she was retiring.  If you're looked for a good one, reasonably priced bookkeeper lately, you know they are hard to find.  I asked my CPA for a referral...

... not only does he offer that now, but at a much better rate than I was paying..

My chief designer moved on 2 years ago, best thing that happened to the business in a long time.  Forced me to rethink the entire process and put what is now, I believe...

... the finest experience in the industry.

Of course, we've all hit a nail, had the tire go flat, and realize there's just no way to proceed without getting...

... and brand new bike.

The real question is...

... should we wait until things break?

---

165.3 lbs
8 hrs 
PullUps PushUps
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling  

BACK IN THE DAY, literally 20 years ago, I was racing Super-D.  My set up was cutting edge.  From a skinsuit, to a TT helmet, to moto goggles...

... I did everything I could to go fast downhill.

For my first Nationals, the tires of choice were a whopping 2.0.

How fast?

Fast enough, 
trust me.

But, that's not the point because I'm rockin' the same width of tires this weekend at...

... the state gravel champs.

What?

2.0s?

Yes, and check out how wrong the look on my gravel racer...

... so wrong, they're right!

Why are they right?

Because the course this Saturday is gonna be sandy and rocky.

Why should you care?

Well, the point isn't that we all need to throw big, knobby treads on whatever bike we're riding.

The point is a proper set up...

• A surgeon has all the tools perfectly laid out
• A cook first preps all the ingredients and necessary equipment
• A painter sands the old paint, primes with primer, then applies the new colors

... can slay the day.

And, a racer sets up their equipment dependent on the course and its various challenges.

---

164.4
8 hrs
No strength
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling 

Follow me on Strava - https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

I'VE SAID IT, and I've heard it.  We all have, at one time or another.  Mostly, the sentiments are genuine, logical, sensible.  We want to do something, but we put it off.  It is, after all, ...

... just a bike ride or race.

There will be next year.

That's what these guys said.

RS was hit by a car this year,
he'll be fine, the bike not so much.

AS, went to Xterra Worlds,
got food poising and couldn't start.

WH, made it into Kona,
2 months later diagnosed with cancer.

What if it wasn't a bike race, but...

• A phone call to a dormant friendship
• A conversation to say sorry
• A chance to do good

... someone who needed us?

Last week, I got an amazing meal at Chipotle.  I can be a kinda high maintenance when I order, so I like to go in person.  But, I was pressed for time and ordered online.

Someone made it with passion and care.

I thought I'd try it again the next day, see if the same lady was making magic for the to go orders...

... there she was.

Were you working to go orders yesterday?

Yes.

It was great!

She smiled, I grabbed my food and headed out the door.

Go back and do better.

Huh?

Go back... get your wallet out.

Really?

Really.

Who has cash these days?  Seems I have less and less in my raceday wallet, but the night before I'd been impressed to get some cash when checking out at the grocery store.

Just a $20.

Miss?

Yes.

Thank you.

I have no idea if she needed the cash, I only knew...

... sometimes there isn't another race or ride or opportunity.

---

164.3
8 hrs
PullUps, PushUps, Squats
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling 

Follow me on Strava - https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

ON THE START LINE, it's not uncommon for me to see a triple digit heart rate.  Nothing is going on, I'm just standing there, and sometimes for up to 20 minutes...

... I like to line up early if it's a mass start race. 

Failure to do so, can potentially lead to starting so far back it can be impossible to get to the front...

... where the action is.

 But...

• why is my heart racing?
• is it a good thing?
• or, a bad thing?

... it's certainly not my normal.

My normal for just standing around, is in the 50s

Another example.

Today, I had an opportunity to speak in public.

A rare occurence.

On a whim, I started Strava when it was my time to present.

HR = 58

Looking down at my notes, I saw my the rate had jumped.

HR = 101

I get why my heart rate would increase...

• on the start line
• surrounded by competitors
• adrenalin pumping and priming my body

... that makes sense.

But, why before...

• speaking in public
• mostly to friends I know
• with plenty of time to prepare

... that doesn't make sense.

Does it?

Or, maybe it's a sign that stress is approaching...

... and I'm ready to rip.

===

164.3 lbs
8 hrs sleep
No Strength Work
20 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248 

IT'S THE OFF-SEASON for most around here, which means the focus on training is dialed way down.  We still get out and do our thing, but it's different.  I prefer...

... activities where I might get lost.

The beautiful result of that is I find a lot of secret trail and routes.

Usually, I'm alone.

When someone joins me on one of these adventurous Saturdays, I inevitably hear...

... where are we?

Mind you, we are riding from our homes.

It's not like we drove some place new.

It happened today.

Granted the fog was nuts along the coast.

Still when we shot offroad,
up a stout little hill,
hit a single track...

... then, descended into a neighhborhood.

I knew he was completely turned around.

Did I tell him where we were?

Of course, not.

Where's the fun in that?

The fun is not so much in getting lost, as in...

... finding out way back to where we know we should be.

===

163.4 lbs
7ish hrs sleep
No Strength Work
10 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248 

NO MATTER WHAT TYPE OF TERRAIN we're riding on, the current thinking and trend is that wider is faster.  I fought that for a long time.  Then, they added...

... lower pressure is even faster.

Oh, jeeeeezzzzz!

It's just so dang hard to go with the counterintuitive...

• Skinny seems more aero and is lighter, therefore, faster.
• Low pressure seems like its going to have the same effect as velcro, therefore, slower.

... which is why it is so easy to resist the counterintuitive.

But, truth is truth...

... and wider, with low pressure is definitely quicker.

The more challenging the terrain,
the bigger the gains in speed and comfort with lower pressure.

Which come to think of it,
isn't really all that counterintuitive.

We experience this all the time.

The rougher life gets, 
the more it wants to get us off track...

... the more we need to lower the pressue.

Keep our cool,
swiftly get back on track.

Just like the darn tires are doin'.

===

163.4 lbs
8.5 hrs sleep
No Strength Work
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248 

YESTERDAY WAS ROUGH.  We resurrected one of the toughest rides we ever do.  It's called Hot Laps because we set up a 15-20 minute loop...

... then chase each other all out for an hour.

Not easy.

Because the site lines are pretty good...

... there's always someone to chase, or be chased by.

The reason this is so insidious is it's always after a challenging ride the day before.

So, back to back hard days.

Crazy?

Stupid?

Maybe, but check out this confirmation bias.

The Fast Talk podcast just released an episode detailing how the small country of Norway is so relatively...

... dominant at endurance events.

If you follow track, and I do, then you know Jakob Ingebrigtsen has been blasting the record books...

... and wondering how?

One of his methods involves back to back hard training.  

He does the two sessions on the same day.

The rest of his 100+ miles of running per week are done in Zone 1 and 2.

This allows him to be fresh and go really deep on the hard day(s), while still building all kinds of aerobic capacity the rest of the week.

Will it work for you?

I don't know.

It has, however, worked for me.

Quite successfully.

Am I really going to completely resurrect the training now,
at the end of the season,
in the off season?

No.

Not all in.

But, since a few of are willing to commit to the concept,
we're going to keep the structure in place for next year.

===

162.5 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
Pull Ups, Push Ups, Squats & Stuff
30 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248 

Sometimes I think Tadej Podacar, the current greatest cyclist in the world, reads this blog. For example, I just listened to the podcast he was on with Peter Attia and there was a shocking revelation...

... Tadej lifts weights all year long!

Just like I've been preachin' for years.

Anyway, lately I've been slacking.

I started doing the strength stuff throughout the day instead of...

... hitting it every morning, first thing.

When I made the shift, it went pretty well for a few weeks.

Work for an hour, take a break and...

... do a rotaion.

But, lately I've noticed my overall effort and commitment has been slipping.

A lot.

That stopped today.

Here is my massive list of rules...

• lift (almost) every day
• keep it simple
• low reps

... anybody can do that.

My main three moves are...

• PullUps
• PushUps
• Squats 

... in that order.

I rotate through those 3, and sometimes a few others, then do it again.

Takes 20 minutes, max.

The key is to schedule it,
then do it.

Like Tadej.

===

164 lbs
8 hrs sleep
Pull Ups, Push Ups, Squats n stuff
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248 

MY PAL ASKED HOW THE RIDE WAS this morning.  He'd missed, again.  I had to be truthful... 

... it was barely ok.

Why?

Well, it's just not the ride it used to be.

How so?

Remember a few years back, we were smashing it.  Finishing the 22 mile, hilly loop in just over an hour.  Now, it's at least 5-7 minutes slower.

Hmmm...

Yeah, and we don't come anywhere close to our old times up The Wall, either.

What are you going to do about it?

And, this is where the truth came in.

Fact is, I'm just as much to blame as anybody...

• taking weak pulls
• sitting a little too long on wheels
• chasing any attacks, but not counter-attacking

... and he let me know that's shameful.

Remember, how I used to attack and kill myself?

Yeah.

And it would rarely work, almost always leaving me too smoked to sprint for the finish?

Yeah.

Why aren't you doing that?

Ouch, that one hurt.  I wasn't going for it, because I was being lame. 

Saving the energy for some ego-stroking finish vs...

... using the ride to push myself regardless of the outcome.

Kudos to all those who...

• have been attacking
• doing the strong pulls
• counter-attacking for the win

... you know who you are.

And, I know you are awesome.

===

164 lbs
7ish hrs sleep
Pull Ups, Push Ups
10 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248 

EVERY ONE HAS A DIFFERENT WAY of expressing their level of commitment.   That's cool, but it might be...

... useful to get real about it.

Especially, since many of are entering the off-season.

I'll make it easy.

If I'm committed to my spouse,
would I have a mistress?

If I'm committed to my health,
would I balloon up for a few months?

If I'm committed to my business/employer,
do I have a side hustle? 

In other words, if things are changing from season to season...

• food
• sleep
• training
• weights

... is our commitment consistent?

Are we committed?

There's nothing wrong with...

• not being committed
• flirting with commitment
• pretending to be committed

... it's just a heckuva a lot harder to be our best if we're half-hearted about it 

That's why we don't quit...

... we commit!

===

Last invitation...

Hundreds of collegiate athletes have been devastated throughout the South East Region - campuses destroyed, classes paused, competitions cancelled.

Together with Torq  USA, Pedal Industries will donate proceeds from this jersey to the South Eastern Collegiate Cycling Conference Teams and Students impacted by Hurricane Helene. 

Thank you for your generous support and consideration.

Click here

===

164.7 lbs
8 hrs sleep
Pull Ups, Push Ups
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248 

WE CAN MOVE SO MUCH QUICKER and be so much more effective when things are clear and concise. I can't think of a single instance where...

... our results could be so much better.

This was on my mind as I set up yet another Page view on my Wahoo.

What would be the minimal about of useful information for training?

I narrowed it down to...

• heart rate
• watts
• rpm's

... which I like then the terrain is rowdy.

On a smooth road...

• heart rate
• watts
• speed

... seems more relevant.

Why these two different views?

Well.

Simple, really.

When it's rowdy with dirt, rocks, up, down, tight turns...

... aerodynamics are much less relevant.

Keeping an eye on heart rate, and staying within a target range, seems more useful to me.

However, when it's smooth and straight and fast...

... speed changes are easy to see as we adjust our body position.

On the road, I'm more interested in figuring out how to maintain a certain speed while keeping the heart rate in check and the watts required down.

In both instances, it's all about efficiency.

Which is why I was so perplexed at the promoter's sloppy (lazy?) work for an event I'm planning on...

• Distance we are covering literally just doubled on the website
• Course map, almost impossible to locate
• Promotion, weak, at best

.... somethings are just doomed to fail.

But, not us.

We wade through the nonsense and...

... focus only on what makes sense.

===

164.3 lbs
8 hrs sleep
Pull Ups, Push Ups
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248 

THERE ARE LOTS OF REASONS to hide the truth.  Secrets we have learned or want to protect regarding...

... how to rip on raceday.

At least, that's how some people play it.

Then, there's just the brutal truth nobody wants to hear.

I was thinking about that today as I watched one dude completely lose control of his emotions because another was late.

I had to ride away.

The level of seething vulgarity was astonishing.

We're talking about a MAMIL. (middle-aged man in lycra)

Not a good look.

What does that have to do with secrets?

I dunno.

I do know.

There are reasons to good get super upset...

... when we make bad decisions.

My top 5 bad decisions...

     5.  Irregular sleep patterns
     4.  Obeying the sugar addiction
     3.  Not knowing basic mechanics
     2.  Drugs and alcohol
     1.  Putting sport before what's important

My top 5 good decisions...

     5.  Treating my body as a temple
     4.  Demonstrating self-mastery
     3.  Pursuing excellence
     2.  Daily Strength Work
     1.  Putting what matters most first

 In case you're wonderin', 
this is a general list, not my personal battles...

... that's a secret.

What's not a secret is this...

Hundreds of collegiate athletes have been devastated throughout the South East Region - campuses destroyed, classes paused, competitions cancelled.

Together with Torq  USA, Pedal Industries will donate proceeds from this jersey to the South Eastern Collegiate Cycling Conference Teams and Students impacted by Hurricane Helene. 

Thank you for your generous support and consideration.

Click here

===

163.7 lbs
7.25 hrs sleep
Pull Ups, Push Ups
10 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248 

IT'S ALWAYS RISKY INVITING the new guy.  Dude expresses interest, I say join us on our easy day.  He commits...

... shows up in a t-shirt, sneakers, helmet unbuckled.

Yeah, I'm that much of a snob to question those choices.

Instantly, I thought...

... We should skip the steep, rutted single track for his first gravel ride with us.

No,
no,
no...

... he was having none of it.

Well, Hot Dang! if he didn't shred it like it was nothin'.

Serves me right for judging gym shorts by their... fabric?

And, that's not even the best news.

We've upped our numbers on this new ride, dubbed Dusty Shins, by a whopping 50%!

From 2 to 3.

You might be asking yourself...

... Why would The Ol' Diesel try and start a new group gravel ride?

Well, I have a theory...

• There's a whole bunch of cool cats in the world that I'll never get to know unless I get 'em bike ride.
• Most of us are workin' too hard, and playin' too little
• And, could use a little extra socializin'

... and a question.

Who ya gonna invite to join you on your superdupereasypeasy ride?

===

163.1 lbs
8 hrs sleep
Pull Ups, Push Ups
20 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248 

THREE MONTHS IN TO COMMITTING to project Quiver Killer, and I can tell you whether or not it's working.  The idea being are there benefits to rolling...

... one bike to rule them all.

I sold the amazing BMC Team Machine, as soon as the Crux was built up and I had two wheel sets.

One for road,
one for gravel.

The goal was to optimize for gravel racing by riding only one bike.

It's safe to say the 3rd at Gravel Nationals was a good confirmation of the plan.

But, the big question still remained...

... Isn't a pain swapping wheels and aligning brakes all the time.

To which I can say, Yes it was a pain...

... in the beginning.

I'd already purchased the same hubs and rotors for each wheels set.

Surprisingly, that wasn't enough.

Adjustments to the calipers were annoying necessary.

It took a while to realize this pro tip...

• Leave the calipers alone.
• Keep fine tuning the trueness of the rotors
• Until they slot right in and spin without rubbing

... it's a thing of beauty.

===

In case you missed it: 

We invite you to help out...

Hundreds of collegiate athletes have been devastated throughout the South East Region - campuses destroyed, classes paused, competitions cancelled.

Together with Torq  USA, Pedal Industries will donate proceeds from this jersey to the South Eastern Collegiate Cycling Conference Teams and Students impacted by Hurricane Helene. 

Thank you for your generous support and consideration.

Click here

===

163.85lbs
8 hrs sleep
Pull Ups, Push Ups
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248 

We invite you to help out...

Hundreds of collegiate athletes have been devastated throughout the South East Region - campuses destroyed, classes paused, competitions cancelled.

Together with Torq  USA, Pedal Industries will donate proceeds from this jersey to the South Eastern Collegiate Cycling Conference Teams and Students impacted by Hurricane Helene. 

Thank you for your generous support and consideration.

Click here

LOOKING OVER THE SHOULDER OF He With Big Tribe, I felt a little bit of pity.  Not just me, but three other concerned riders rolled to the man fixing a flat and asked...

... You're not on tubeless?

Not that there's anything wrong with tubes.

But, tubeless has been a game changer for me...

• lower tire pressure
• faster rolling
• self-sealing

... because it's so much more durable.

For example, yesterday I must have picked up a small sliver or something.  When I checked my tires last night, the rear was quite low.

For whatever reason, the sealant didn't close the hole completely...

• I checked the tire
• found the spot
• stuck in a dart

... took less than a minute to do.

Woke up this morning and the tire pressure was perfect.

I'll probably ride that tire for another 1000 miles, or more.

My poor friend, had to...

• take off his wheel
• remove the inner tube
• check the inside of the tire
• insert a new tube perfectly

... unfortunately, it didn't go well.

Then, and this is not uncommon, It burst upon airing up.

Probably still had a thorn in there, or he didn't put a patch on the inside of the tire, or perhaps a fold in the tube.

Whatever it was, the fact remains, he had to do the entire procedure all over again.

Most new bikes, wheels and tires, are tubeless ready.

Tubeless is so much easier, and efficient.

Why don't do it?

There is a cost to convert, a legit reason to wait for a necessary bike/wheel upgrade. 

But, I think it's something else.

This was true for me.

It seemed like magic,
and that was scary.

I was unsure I'd be able to master the new technology.

I let my fears hold me back instead of...

... moving forward with a better solution.

Here's how to do it: https://youtu.be/rTCgv6MzYzI?si=qvBwuJdMqzPb_WX4 

===

163.8 lbs
7.5 hrs sleep
Pull Ups, Push Ups & Stuff
20 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

TRAINING IS TOTALLY DIFFERENT FROM RACING.  When something goes wrong in training, sure we hustle to get things back on track, but we're not killing ourselves.  We're making sure...

... it's done right.

If we could just remember...

• a flat
• broken chain
• loose bolts
• bald tire
• empty bottle
• outta nutrition
• drained battery
• worn pads

... won't kill us, and...

• perfect equipment
• proper nutrition
• enough liquid
• charged batteries
• clean lines
• great coaching
• sideline support
• ideal weather

... won't make us win.

It's the cumulative effect of bad things and good things stacking up...

... that make all the difference.

So, when it's all going sideways,
we take a breather,
regroup.

When it can't get any better,
we pause for moment,
with gratitude.

Whatever the sitch...

... we keep on charging towards our holy grail

GAMBLING IS A VICE, everybody knows that.  It can be addictive, life destroying, all consuming.  Yet, there is every reason to believe...

... gambling is good.

What?!

Yep.

Because, when you think about it, that's exactly what we are doing...

• when we train for a race
• invest in equipment
• hire a coach

... we are betting on ourselves.

To win.
To do our best.
To shock the world.

Which is exactly what Tadej did today.

Rolled the dice,
on a ridiculously long-range attack,
against the very best riders in the world.

Stupid?
Arrogant?
Audacious?

That's what it takes.

Are you ready to place that bet?

===

165.6
7.5 hrs
No Strength Work today
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Check out PEDALindustries.com

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

IT HAD BEEN ABOUT 10 MILES since I'd last seen the crew. Apparently, they even stopped to wait for me at some point.  I was too far back to catch.  My friends are so kind...

... when they are not stomping on the pedals.

Swami's Long is, by far, my favorite loop,
with a few of the local hitters,
and National Champs...

... I couldn't resist.

It was a real carrot and stick ride.

I'd start coming off the back,
and claw my way back on.

When the elastic was about to snap,
I'd put in the last ditch effort.

The carrot of a solid draft is tasty.

Eventually, on W. Lilac, which is like a Disneyland ride with twists and turns and ups and downs...

... the stick of being dropped clobbered me.

It wasn't enough to prod me back to the group.

There was no more pace in my legs to pick up.

Am I happy about that,
being dropped?

100%.

It's a gorgeous ride.

Am I happy about today's numbers, which well off what I was doing a few years ago?

Well, yeah, I think I am.

Today's effort was almost a mirror image of Gravel Nationals a few weeks ago.

One big difference.

I was very tapered for that big A race in Nebraska,
and mostly tired this morning from a pretty big week.

What's it mean?

I think it means I'm track for the last race of the year.

Gravel State Champs.

===

Just a side note... yesterday I was having a bit of a Woe is me moment.  Battling with doctors and insurance and all that goes along with that.  I was tired, and kinda bummed. 

Feeling a little defeated. 

When I went to bed, I thought The hell with it I'll just ride by myself in the morning wallow in my sorrow.  Not a great place to be mentally or spiritually or socially.  

When I woke up, after a solid sleep, it was early. 

I had new thought...

... Screw this, I'm gonna ride with my friends.

Ain't nothing like some zzzzzzs
and friends,
and watts...

... to get the ol' soul back on track.

Am I right?!

===

164.8 (only way i'm gonna finish with the group is drop 5)
8 hrs
PullUps PushUps
10 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

I'M NOT MUCH OF A TRUE CAMPER, but, I do love tents.  Especially, at the races.  There's not much better than...

... gathering at the tent.

Pre-race.
Post race.

On bikes.
Off bikes

Don't matter.

It's like an outdoor locker room, oddly private...

... with all kinds of energy.

Michael and I were talking about it this week, how the kids...

• Jr High
• High School
• College and Universities

... are so good at brining everybody in.

That's often where they best bond with each other,
feel the confidence of the seasoned kids,
buoy up the newcomers.

Sometimes, that's the best part of going to an event.

Here are some design inspirations...

===

162.7
7.5 hrs
PullUps PushUps
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

WELL, I PULLED THE TRIGGER on a race that only a handful of people have committed to.  It's not cheap.  It's not close.  And, No, I didn't do it...

... because I'll probably win.

I mean Who wants to be the State Gravel Champion of nobody?

Not me. 

I punched in my info,
finger-approved the CC charge,
because I want this to be a huge success...

• the course looks cool
• they're feeding us something delish 
• we get a chance to earn the State Champ sleeves

... gotta get that momentum going.

That's how events get huge,
and eventually start selling out the first day Reg opens.

Bike Reg has two cool data fields...

• Who's Registered - lets you see the competitors in your category
• Race Predictor - gives an idea on how we'll do

... I love that..

If we see a good chunk of humanity is signed up, it's exciting.

Whether Race Predictor thinks wer're gonna get clobbered or should crush it, there's always some way to find motivation there.

 The moral of the story is...

... if you see a race you want to succeed, do something about it.

Oh, and if you're in the SoCalSoNev USACycling District...

... get signed up before it sells out!

https://www.bikereg.com/67322

===

163.1
7.5 hrs
PullUps PushUps Squats
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

NEARLY 70 YEARS AGO, at the dawn of the software programming age, Army specialists William D. Mellin explained that computers cannot think for themselves...

... sloppily programmed inputs inevitably lead to incorrect outputs.

What does that have to do with my Wahoo?

Nothing,
and everything.

But, before we get there the default phrase is...

... garbage in, garbage out.

Simplified: GIGO

As athletes, what kind of garbage should we avoid?

• processed food
• most breads
• refined sugar
• packaged food
• recreational drugs
• inadequate sleep
• massive amounts of caffeine
• refined sugar
• alcohol
• going hard every single workout
• smoking
• sitting for extended periods
• mindless scrolling
• porn
• refined sugar
• seed oils (I'm not super read up on this one)

What should go in?

Keep it simple.

Eat food who's ingredients you can identify...

• eggs
• vegetables
• fruits
• meats
• nuts

... just by looking at the plate, you know what you're eating.

Get plenty of sleep, and rest. If in question, get more than you think you need...

... simply by going to bed earlier.

Drink plenty of good water, you know so your pee doesn't look like gold the way it does after a super long ride or run or swim.

Vitamins, supplements, etc...

... work with a functional health doctor, start with a blood test.

In a nutshell, when avoiding GIGO...

... remember to K.I.S.S.

Speaking of keeping it super simple...

... I came into a leaf covered turn a little hot today.

this is exactly why I developed a lightweight, breathable glove that can be worn all year long.

Right now, it's buy one pair, get the second pair free.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves

165
8.5 hrs
PullUps PushUps Squats
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

I'VE BEEN INVITED TO SPEAK on the subject of peacemaking.  Weird, I know.  For someone who manufactures angst on the start line...

... this is going to be a challenge.

For years, I've known generating a little pissedoffness...

... can sharpen the senses, and increase the wattage.

So, I'd come up with some fake backstory on some unsuspecting competitor.

They'd never know.

It's an immature idea, but...

... I know it's origin.

Early on, as I got into racing...

... I really got into crit racing.

Trust me, there's nothing like the adrenaline spikes from..

• banging elbows
• getting cut off in a turn
• being swarmed in the final meters

... it's a most powerful drug.

Because, we don't just feel threatened...

we're dodging bullets.

So, Joe Racer shows up at the next race and it's real easy...

... to harness that negative energy.

Eventually, I got over it.

It was simple, really.

I gave most people the benefit of the doubt, and stayed clear of the turds.

Which is why I almost always find myself making up some kooky gossip on...

• a fellow competitor 
• doing their best
• to be safe

... it works, so I do it.

And, to be honest, most of the time it's the racer I'm lined up next to, smiling and introducing myself.

Doltish, I know.

But, here's the thing

• sometimes the danger is f'reals
• we have every right to be ticked off
• especially if the actions are intentional

... like the turd who ran me into the barriers a few years ago.

When that happens, we can...

• turn the other cheek
• be confrontation and contentious
• seek first to understand, then be understood

... we have choices.

That turd who tried to ruin me nearly did me in...

• I hit the barrier,
• shredded my jersey,
• and bled all over my arm, body and bike.

... turning the other cheek seemed like the best option

I was exhausted from the race,
and tired of being angry.

It was getting me nowhere.

And we want to go places...

... am I right? 

164.8
7.5 hrs
No Strength Work
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

THE FIRST TIME I MONITORED MY WEEKLY SCREEN TIME, I was blown away.  How could I possibly be spending so much time looking at my phone...

... when I could be riding?!!

But, what about my Wahoo screen?

How much time do I spend looking at that?

And, if our minds can be altered by what goes in via that phone...

.... what does that say about what we see on our bike computers?

I'm doing an experiment to keep my mind fresh and clean.

Phone - no screen time before Noon.  Get the day started off unpolluted.

Wahoo - only 2 metrics, heart rate and cadence.

Why only those two?

Well, lately I've noticed when things are getting spicy I'll look and see a high power number and think...

... Oh, that's really hard just hold that.

Meanwhile, my heart rate is ticking along way under max bpm.

Before you get all bro, are you even warmed up, yes, this is well into the ride.

What I'm hoping for is to push harder, earlier in the effort...

... without freakin' myself out.

As for the cadence, when really getting after it...

... it's always good to see if I'm in the RPM sweet spot.

And, it's not just the hard efforts.

Same goes for the easy days.

Often, I'll look down and see the HR is Zone 2, but the watts seem too high, and I'll back it down.

Meanwhile, I'll still be recording all the other data to look at post work out.

In other words...

... gonna do some old school HR based training.

Nothing like the off-season to mess around.

LOOKING BACK OVER THE LAST FEW YEARS, some events really stand out and others are utterly forgettable.  Is there a...

... connection between memorable and forgettable?

It's not the money.

Well, it's kind of the money.

No it's not.

I mean the most memorable events, and were talking about racing here...

... definitely charge more.

But, that's not the issue.

Well, it kind of is.

Here's what I mean... 

... the best events deliver an experience we highly value.

So, while they may cost more...

... they are actually a bargain.

Many a time, I've come away from a "low cost" event, and felt totally ripped off.

No bueno.

Great events, deliver on so many levels...

... we come back again and again.

It's the same with anything we invest in...

• bikes
• shoes
• wetsuits
• helmets
• coaching

... we want great stuff,
and awesome experiences.

FOR 6+ YEARS I've been mostly going it alone.  Typically, I enjoy these rides by myself.  For two reasons, it's off season, and...

... I'm the only one with a gravel bike.

Not today.

Seven of us,
my main riding crew,
all saddled up for a morning of...

... pavement, dirt roads, and singletrack.

Two, were straight up virgins,
three, rocked gravel Nationals with me,
and the other two, well...

... we just couldn't believe it had finally happened.

Why now?

While...

• The crit scene is alive and stomping
• The MTB scene is still thriving
• Gravel is exploding

... and bar to bar, legit road races are d e a d.

And, that is exactly what the mass start gravel circus...

• elbow rubbing
• wheel sucking
• real attacking

... offers everyone who pins on a number.

Excitement.

I could barely control myself.

Rather than ask after every...

• serpentine single track
• screaming downhill
• berm-ripping turn

... I contained myself and just asked one question of the two virgins.

How would describe gravel riding?

Contestant #1: Exhilarating.

How so?

Well, we were flying across that false flat at speeds I never encountered on my mountain bike.

Contestant #2: New challenges.

Like what?

I'm just not used to my wheels drifting in almost every single turn.

Should everybody take up gravel?

No.

Only those looking for exhilarating new challenges.

Now, for a dose of reality.

In the olden days, when it was just lil' ol' me on these Saturday mornings, I looked forward to patching together an amalgam of all kinds of different surfaces...

... and occasionally score some new way to get around these parts.

As of today,
with me being the slowest of my pals...

... a new era is dawning in my gravel world.

The zen-like qualities melt away when the group is together,
and new fitness gains with the accompanying skill required to go fast...

... could create a startling performance advance.

A lot like this super spooky kit.

Order it by Monday - code below.

Use promo code JACKD to save 30%, expires 9.23.

Click Here to order

===

163
6.5 hrs
No Strength Work
10 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

POLARIZED TRAINING IS REALLY POWERFUL.  But, human nature and our inherent need to overachieve gives all of us an equal opportunity to really screw up what...

... could be a game changer.

The basics are to train...

• crazy hard a little bit of the time
• superduper easy most of the time

... pretty simple, right?

Here's how I do it:

• Kill it twice a week
• Cruise it the rest of the time
• Keep the hard days far apart or back to back

Here's the rule of thumb, that most people get wrong...

... the easy, crusin' days are big enough volume to maintain the fitness gained on the very hard days.

For example, If my fitness on Starva is 90 after a hard Tuesday, I'm going to aim for enough volume to mostly maintain that fitness score.

It may, will drop a bit.

But, not the kind of drop I'd see if I was sendentary.

That is completely doable as long as my intensity is low enough.

For me, that low intensity is almost entirely Zone 2.

Following this protocol, allows me to hit it hard again...

... and bump the fitness up.

The results increased performance...

... are terrifying.

Just like this hair-raising kit.

Order it by Monday - code below.

Use promo code JACKD to save 30%, expires 9.23.

Click Here to order

===

162.7
7.5 hrs
PullUps PushUPs Split Squats
30 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

I DON'T HAVE TO TELL YOU, because you get it.  However, we've all got a friend or three who need to be hit upside the helmet...

... when it comes to tapering.

This week it hit me.

Exactly how to explain what tapering feels like.

I was doing shoulder presses with 200 lb. dumbbells in each hand...

... it might have been less weight than that, but that's not the point.

The point is I had a good, heavy piece of metal in each hand.

The resistance was very real.

After I plopped the weights back down,
I reached up above my head to grab something.

There it was.

My hand shot up,
with zero effort.

That my fine lycra-loving friends is...

... exactly what proper tapering feels like.

On raceday.

We shoot....

• uphills
• off the front
• rocking all out in a sprint 

... with zero perceived effort.

Truly magical.

We should feel that good when the...

• stress of heavy training loads
• grind of 9-5 hustling for money
• nights of of too little sleep and rest

... are left behind the final week or so before the A race.

On that day,
for that moment,
we are SCARY FAST!

Which is exactly how I plan to be at the Filthy 50 Costume Race.

At least the scary part.

In this frighteningly rad kit.

Order it by Monday - code below.

Use promo code JACKD to save 30%, expires 9.23.

Click Here to order

===

163.4
7.5 hrs
PullUps PushUPs Split Squats
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

WE DON'T DO THIS ENOUGH, at least I don't.  But, since I just did it again for the first time in ages, I can tell you for sure...

... there is sheer joy in building up a bike.

Rather than accept the spec'd parts,
we pick out what we really want,
in the exact size and ratio.

In the recent build, I went over the...

• crank length
• cassette size
• and front chain ring

... to get exactly what I wanted.

It's perfect.

• 46 up front
• an 11-40 in the back
• a 2x Classified rear hub

To figure out the gear ratios, you can be a math wiz or simply go to...

 https://www.bikecalc.com/archives/gear-ratios.html#google_vignette

... and geek out for hours.

Taking the time to get everything right for me was...

... super fun and rewarding.

Oh, and fast as hell.

Which reminds me...

... Noel created a truly badass Halloween Kit.

Order it by Monday, get it in time for your favorite haunts - code below.

Use promo code JACKD to save 30%, expires 9.23.

Click Here to order

===

164.5
8 hrs
PullUps PushUPs Split Squats
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

I GOT A GOOD LESSON RACING a while back.  The finish was coming up fast, I was in perfect position, there was no way I was going to lose...

... until I did.

It surprised me, then...

... I got really hacked off at myself.

Can you relate?

The kind of anger when I just pedal off and mumble uncouth language under my breath...

... and don't want to be around anybody.

What happened?

So dumb...

• I thought I had it won
• eased off the pedals
• started to relax

... and got passed.

It was so close, 
we had the same time.

But, a dramatically different result.

Should we ever ease off just because

• things are going well
• our goals are on track
• the top is within reach

... it's all going according to plan?

Or, should we push through until...

... we've conquered what we set out to accomplish? 

===

Working hard to get to the top we don't typically need a jacket, 
that's for the way down while we revel in our glory.

===

166.1 
7 hrs
PullUps PushUPs Split Squats
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

JUST PINGED A BUDDY about riding this week.  I'd have my girl call his girl, but our girls already think we are weird.  The one day that lines up for each of us...

... sounds terrible.

We're doing his work out...

• 25 minute warm up
• 1 minute all out up a hill
• spin around the loop and do it 10 times

... and I love it.

It looks like a sure fire way to see stars, and

... possible vomit.

This is why it's so crucial to have faster friends,
people that are way better,
putting us to shame.

There is a 0% I'd do that workout on my own.

I mean, I'd roll out with the structure in mind, but...

... I'd never go as deep and hard on my own.

That's crazy!

===

165.1 
9 hrs
PullUps PushUPs Split Squats
30 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248