164.2
7.2 hrs Sleep
30 PullUps 60 PushUps + kettlebell and shoulder presses
HypberVolt & Stretch
75 minutes reading + journaling
no ride today - rain.
IS THIS HOW LEGENDARY EVENTS BEGIN?
THERE ARE LEGENDARY QUESTS that start with an individual's personal need to accomplish something big, from there a few friends get roped in...
... then all a the sudden athletes are shelling out cash and puttin in the time.
Cuz it sounds insane.
I mean think of it...
- John and Judy Collins and triathlon
- Henri Desgrange and Le Tour
- Steve Hill and his son Dan with friend Tanner Bell and Ragnar
... a handful of people capturing the imaginations of millions.
Which brings me to today.
We have now attempted the Surf N Summit 6 times...
- Failed due to 112º+ temps
- Failed due to a freak snow storm
- Late night finish, two rescued off the mountain
- Evening finish in the dark, 30% attrition
- All finishers before sunset, 30% attrition
- Failed due to tropical storm
... 50% failure, and 30% attrition when we do complete the quest.
We had a really good group today.
All were riding strong.
Had the storm not rolled in I'm convinced we all would have finished, we'd already knocked out...
- 101 miles
- 11000' of vert
- ave speed 13m/h
... we were on pace, one final 4000' climb remained.
But, getting stuck at
- 10,000'
- no cell service
- in lycra
- powerful winds
- driving rain
- mud
- plummeting temps
- in the dark
... just didn't seem all that appealing.
shouldawouldacoulda
Some firsts for this year...
- two outta staters
- power outage at the VRBO
- lotsa friends rolling out for first 30 miles
... made it a lot of run.
Let me expand on my review of the Silca tires...
- a ton of downhill PRs
- great speed across the valley
- a few PRs uphill
... they're reallyreally fast.
Oh, back to the question...
- difficult to finish
- battling the elements
- demanding the best equipment
... is this how legendary events begin?
Maybe we'll see ya next year.
===
165 lbs/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
730ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 0 push ups, 0 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 box jumps (24"), Bulgarian split squats with 25lb dumbells, nordic curls, heel and toe raises
92/115/-24 per Strava Power & Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: Black List, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE LAST SUPPER, AGAIN...
FOR SOME OF US, the night before the big quest can be rough. Tossin' and turnin' and bathroomin'. Will we ever get to sleep, followed by...
... oh crud, what is that annoying sound.
The alarm,
ya dummy.
But, just before that all goes down...
... is the last supper.
Let that sink in ya (me) religious weirdos.
Frankly, some dinners are better than others...
- good food
- geeking out on the prep
- filling in the gaps for the uninitiated.
... and tonight is one of my all time faves.
When faced with the biggest ride of the year...
- 123 miles
- 15000' of vert
- 12 hours to beat the sunset
... there' really nothing like.
A convo stuffed...
... with passion and angst.
===
163.4 lbs/12.4%
8ish hours sleep620 anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 150 push ups, 30 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 box jumps (24"), Bulgarian split squats with 25lb dumbells, nordic curls, heel and toe raises
84/73/11 per Strava Power & Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: HIdden Order, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
FOR THE LOVE OF IT
THE BIGGEST, CRAZIEST CHALLENGES we go after are generally fueled by our truest passion. The accomplishment happens...
... because it calls to our souls.
We've gotta do it.
Which is how the Surf N Summit came about.
For years, I'd dreamed and schemed of how to ride from Dana Point to Big Bearlll
- gravel bikes happened
- discovery of a 40 mile bike trail
- connecting an abandoned logging road to a gravel route
... while keeping to a minimum using public roads.
It's the same thing with our super fun business...
- Italian fabrics
- Patterns we designed - printed, cut and sewn here
- On demand with no minimums.
... making the apparel and gear I always wanted.
Because that allows us - you and me - to get our create juices flowing and create special designs that mean something to us...
... and inspire and memorialize our adventures.
Take this year's Surf N Summit kit in pic above...
- hi viz camo jersey because it's literally hunting season in the mountains
- dark green bibs to compliment the forest environment
- hi viz accessories to complete the look
... which is honestly one of my all time favorite designs.
If you've got a hankering to make something special for your upcoming quest,
let's make it happen.
Click here: https://pedalindustries.com/pages/start-a-project
Katie wanted a suit to train for Ironman
Kurt wanted a kit for Good Dirt
Kimberly wanted a bag to match her kit.
===
163.4 lbs/12.4%
8ish hours sleep620 anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 150 push ups, 30 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 box jumps (24"), Bulgarian split squats with 25lb dumbells, nordic curls, heel and toe raises
87/87/0 per Strava Power & Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: HIdden Order, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
INITIAL IMPRESSIONS
AFTER READING THE REVIEWS and listening to the infoolencers, we pull the trigger on a new gizmo...
... hoping it's all it's cracked up to be.
Making us better.
Faster.
Which is exactly what I did with the new Silca Protocol gravel tires.
I went with the RCG-1 50mm, which is about as knobby as my Conti Terra Speed 45mm on the center...
... with much bigger knobs on the sides.
Here are my initial impressions...
- super lightweight
- very thin casing
- easy to mount
- aired up to my usual 20lbs, very smooth and fast
- noticeably better grip turning in the loose stuff
... after one ride.
Tomorrow, I'm going to test the Silca recommended pressure...
- Rear 25.5 lbs
- Front 24.5 lbs
... per their online calculator.
Distilling it down the tires...
- feel very fast
- need to explore their limits cornering
- a little nervous about durability over nasty rocks
... could be a significant improvement over the Terra Speeds.
It's always a little nerve-racking to leave behind a tested, proven product that has led to much success...
... which is what makes searching for our limits constantly fascinating.
===
165 lbs/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
730 anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 150 push ups, 30 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 box jumps (24"), Bulgarian split squats with 25lb dumbells, nordic curls, heel and toe raises
87/87/0 per Strava Power & Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: Black List, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
BUT, THE WEATHER...
WE'RE ALL ALWAYS LOOKING at the predicted weather for our upcoming event. Some us of with angst...
... some of us with lust.
Where do you land?
Asking because Chicago Marathon just announced less than ideal conditions for raceday.
Now, for those looking to...
- to finish their first marathon
- complete Chicago
- PR
... that means something.
For those looking to:
- win
- podium
- beat their friends
... it might mean something altogether different.
Depends on what where made of,
what we know about ourselves,
more importantly...
... what stories we tell ourselves.
Me personally, tell me it's gonna be awful and...
... I think of what the great Jocko Willink would say.
Good.
Gonna be hot, good.
Others will wilt.
Gonna be cold, good.
Others will freeze.
Gonna be muddy, good.
Others will bog down.
Why is that my goto response?
Probably because at this point I've faced it all,
plowed through the truly sucky.
Attitude counts, for sure.
But, experience,
that's like building an asset.
Still looking to be heinously hot for the SurfNSummit on Saturday...
- 123 miles
- 15,000'
- 12 hrs
... Good.
===
165.6 lbs/12.6%
7ish hours sleep
570 anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 0 push ups, 0 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 box jumps (24"), Bulgarian split squats with 25lb dumbells, nordic curls, heel and toe raises
88/92/-5 per Strava Power & Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: Black List, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
REFRAMING EASY DAYS
WHEN THE EASY DAY is on the schedule, we kit up, check ourselves out in the mirror and wink...
... time to go easy.
Most of us,
most of the time,
utterly fail to hit the mark.
We go way beyond.
Why?
Because we are endure-ance athletes,
and if we ain't enduring,
we aren't satisfied.
Some of us could use a reframe, and as the great Scott Adams taught...
... a reframe does not need to be logical or fully true. It only needs to work.
Here's one that works for me.
Usual frame: Easy days are a waste of valuable time, so...
... Imma gunna go sorta kinda easy.
Reframe: Easy days done properly set up the hard days for maximum execution and benefit, so...
... Imma gonna go super easy.
===
163.4 lbs/12.3%
8ish hours sleep
570 anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 60 push ups, 12 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 box jumps (24"), Bulgarian split squats with 25lb dumbells, nordic curls, heel and toe raises
86/82/3 per Strava Power & Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: Black List, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
BEWARE THE SELF-COACHED ATHLETE
WHEN SOMEONE "comes outta nowhere" we interested in where they came from, for sure. But, what we're really dying to know...
... is how the heck they did it.
Take Vinny Mauri.
Never heard of him?
Of course not, no one in the marathon world had either...
... until he recently put down a 2:05 marathon.
His first crack it...
... fourth fastest time by an American, ever.
How?
Well, he's self-coached...
- most of his training is on a Planet Fitness treadmill
- clipping along at a 5 min/mile pace
- for hours at a time
... with a very unique approach.
Like, insanely unique.
That 2:05 was at a small time event,
no competition,
no pacers.
What does the future hold for him?
Better yet...
... where are we delivering sub-par performances because our training and thinking is stuck in tradition?
Get the details here: https://www.letsrun.com/news/2026/10/after-one-of-the-most-insane-marathon-buildups-ever-how-fast-can-strava-legend-vinny-mauri-run-at-the-chicago-marathon/
===
163.4 lbs/12.3%
8ish hours sleep
610 anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 150 push ups, 30 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 box jumps (24"), Bulgarian split squats with 25lb dumbells, nordic curls, heel and toe raises
90/103/-14 per Strava Power & Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: Black List, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
>
HOT IN, SO HOT IN...
WHEN WE KNOW SOMETHING WORKS, it's hard to imagine a completely different pathway yielding the same results...
... even when we see them in real life.
Take altitude training.
Athletes from all kinds of sports go to camps high in the mountains to gain the benefits of training high in the mountains...
... mainly, more red blood cells delivered to working muscles.
Today, I was deep into suffering through the heat wave plaguing us right now...
... miles from home.
Dying.
Not dying...
... wilting a slow, agonizing demise.
Why?
Cuz I'm an idiot, and cuz...
... the heatwave is gunna last all week.
Potentially, into our epic SurfNSummit...
- 123 miles
- 15000 of vert
- 12ish hours of adventure
... next Saturday.
I wanna try and heatproof myself.
The other reason is purely inspired by our current World Road Champion Brandon McNulty...
- expand blood plasma
- lower HR and core temps at a given pace
- with a rise in hemoglobin mass similar to short camps
... who shuns the altitude days in favor of the blistering Arizona summer heat.
===
I wasn't a total idiot...
... stopped twice for a popsicle and ice in my bottles.
Still smoked when I arrived to our airconditionless casa.
===
161.8 lbs/12.3%
7.5ish hours sleep
730 anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 0 push ups, 1 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 box jumps (24"), Bulgarian split squats with 25lb dumbells, nordic curls, heel and toe raises
90/103/-14 per Strava Power & Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: Black List, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
HOW'S EVERYTHING GOING?
WE QUESTION SO MUCH when focusing on getting the most out of our efforts to improve. The infoolencers on the socials, the clickbait ads...
... the local hero dropping hints of how it's done.
But, here's the real question.
And, I bring that up because I was inspired to reach out to a number of friends with a simple text...
... How's it going?
It's a heart felt question,
and it solicited answers like...
- Let's chat, it'll be good to talk
- All good, working through challenges with aging parents
- Howdy! Everything is good... just taking a break after a busy summer of racing
... to Dude just calling me right back and yakityyaking for 20 minutes.
I posted this on X...
... Is logging time on social media essentially infidelity in my marriage?
'Cuz honestly...
... are we (me) paying attention to what's going on in the lives of those we profess to love?
Before you reply How's it going Old Diesel?...
- connecting with God often
- family is amazing and growing
- biz is up 18% on the year, but I gotta up my value delivery to hit the annual goal I set
- I'm still a ways off from: sub-160 lbs, 10 pullup and 50 pushups in a row, but I'll get there
... consider this your invitation to let me know how things are going for you,
and check in on a few friends.
Sometimes we get to ask in person, like today when I ran into...
... "young" Kevin Vermaerke in his UAE kit on the road.
How's it going?
Great, just got back from Canada.
Which reminds me, a lot of are feeling extra patriotic after Brandon's killer V.
... this kit is rad in person, and when you purchase Jersey and Bibs you save 15%.
WE QUESTION SO MUCH when focusing on getting the most out of our efforts to improve. The infoolencers on the socials, the clickbait ads...
... the local hero dropping hints of how it's done.
But, here's the real question.
And, I bring that up because I was inspired to reach out to a number of friends with a simple text...
... How's it going?
It's a heart felt question,
and it solicited answers like...
- Let's chat, it'll be good to talk
- All good, working through challenges with aging parents
- Howdy! Everything is good... just taking a break after a busy summer of racing
... to Dude just calling me right back and yakityyaking for 20 minutes.
I posted this on X...
... Is logging time on social media essentially infidelity in my marriage?
'Cuz honestly...
... are we (me) paying attention to what's going on in the lives of those we profess to love?
Before you reply How's it going Old Diesel?...
- connecting with God often
- family is amazing and growing
- biz is up 18% on the year, but I gotta up my value delivery to hit the annual goal I set
- I'm still a ways off from: sub-160 lbs, 10 pullup and 50 pushups in a row, but I'll get there
... consider this your invitation to let me know how things are going for you,
and check in on your top 3 friends.
Sometimes we get to ask in person, like today when I ran into...
... "young" Kevin Vermaerke in his UAE kit on the road.
How's it going?
Great, just got back from Canada.
Which reminds me, a lot of are feeling extra patriotic after Brandon's killer V.
... this kit is rad in person, and when you purchase Jersey and Bibs you save 15%.
===
162 lbs/12.4%
7.5ish hours sleep
600 anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 50 push ups, 10 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 box jumps (24"), Bulgarian split squats with 25lb dumbells, nordic curls, heel and toe raises
87/92/-5 per Strava Power & Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: Black List, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
>
CLARITY AND DISCIPLINE
WHEN WE ARE NEW to endurance sports we start off with a lot of enthusiasm. Learning all kinds of new skills and tricks, wanting to...
... go as far and fast as possible.
Our commitment shocks the onlookers.
We aren't just new to the sport...
... we are new.
Comments like, You sure have a lot of discipline are common.
Flattering.
But, do we?
Have a lot of discipline?
Discipline is for children...
... we have clarity.
We don't say No to cake...
... we say Yes to ripping on raceday.
===
163.2 lbs/12.5%
8sh hours sleep
640ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 96 push ups, 16 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 box jumps (24"), Bulgarian split squats with 25lb dumbells, nordic curls, heel and toe raises
88/98/-10 per Strava Power & Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: Black List, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
>
NOW THIS IS BEAUTIFUL
THE BEAUTY OF THE UCI WORLD CYCLING CHAMPIONSHIPS is a combination of things which I really appreciate and enjoy, and...
... one thing stands out among all that is different.
Communication.
No race radios.
It makes for way better racing, and we can understand the challenges because...
... it's exactly how we race on the amateur level.
Be it the local group ride or pinning number on.
We have our heads on a swivel, and we're paying attention to everything that's happening and...
- no update from the car
- no teammate telling us they are otb
- no braintrust analyzing all the data points for us
... we are making decisions based on intuition and experience.
Which makes the USA's win...
- Simmons setting it all up early on going in a long range break
- Jorgensen sucking the life from all contenders
- McNulty soloing in for the win at 32k to go
... a truly beautiful thing.
Oh that all pro racing was that way.
===
164.2 lbs/12.5%
8sh hours sleep
640ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 50 push ups, 10 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 box jumps (24"), Bulgarian split squats with 25lb dumbells, nordic curls, heel and toe raises
89/101/-13 per Strava Power & Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: Black List, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
ARE WE EATING TOO MUCH?
IN THE MAD DASH to fuel for, and the recovery from, the next heavy training session, is it possible we might overdoing it...
... to our detriment?
I mean, look around.
For a herd of endurance athletes...
... are we gazelles or elephants, or somewhere in between?
The reason I'm asking is today, after a fairly rigorous start...
- 5:30 am start, as always underslept, normal rise is around 6am.
- 60 miles, 5000' of vert, 225w Normalized (good for me)
- over an hour at threshold or above
... I felt unusually awesome.
What I did was...
- Ate light dinner vs a bunch of extra carbs
- Pre-ride skipped the oatmeal in favor of 3 Trader Joe's peanut butter cups.
- Got home, pounded a Fair Life chocolate milk vs. a pile of Kodiak cakes and a smoothie.
... not on purpose or as a test.
Just life.
Hanging out with one of the grands all evening before.
Getting home to a work crew taking over the downstairs and clearing out amidst the chaos so I could get some work done.
Results are in...
- slept amazing
- had awesome energy all morning
- and cranked out a buncha work before noon
... and I'm asking a legit question.
Am I eating too much?
===
163.8lbs/12.5%
7sh hours sleep
640 anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 0 push ups, 10 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 box jumps (24"), Bulgarian split squats with 25lb dumbells, nordic curls, heel and toe raises
89/109/-20 per Strava Power & Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: Black List, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHAT IS AN EVENT SO GOOD WE WOULD PAY TO HOST?
THE BEST EVENTS OFTEN START WITH NEED AND PASSION, or both. They grow organically from there until...
... they are famous and selling out.
What would be one so good we'd be willing to bankroll it ourselves?
Free entry.
That was the question on a recent Founders podcast.
It got me thinking the...
- lots of people I'd want to hang out with
- and be challenged and stimulated by
- share the experience with
- add in some killer eats
- outrageous awards
- swarm of vendors
... things that would be worth it.
That's the kind of event I'd be interested in putting together.
In the meantime...
- parting with our cash to help finance it
... isn't that what we are basically doing when we register for any event?
===
163.8lbs/12.5%
8sh hours sleep
480ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 50 push ups, 10 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 box jumps (24"), Bulgarian split squats with 25lb dumbells, nordic curls, heel and toe raises
86/90/-5 per Strava Power & Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: Black List, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
TWO NOTEBOOKS
DOCUMENTING OUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS is something many of us do. Whether it's a framed race photo, or race numbers with medals on the mantle...
... if it matters, keep it memorable.
What about the future?
Do we document that?
Each morning I bust out two notebooks...
- just after reading something uplifting
- meditating on it
- before all else
... one for imaging the future, one for the todos.
The dumb ideas get axed,
the good ones have a shot at life.
The tasks get completed and crossed out,
the survivors either get done or killed.
What does that have to do with racing, life?
Everything.
===
Deeper Dive
To image the future is to deliberately build a picture of what has not happened yet so that picture can shape what you do now.
It is not fortune-telling and it is not daydreaming. It is the constructive work of taking pieces of memory, observation, values, and desire and assembling them into a scene, a feeling, or a story of a possible tomorrow.
How the mind actually does it
Your brain uses the same machinery for remembering the past and picturing the future. It pulls familiar people, places, objects, and emotions out of storage and rearranges them into events that have never occurred. Neuroscientists call this constructive episodic simulation. People who lose the ability to recall personal memories often also lose the ability to vividly imagine their own future.
There are at least four related modes:
- Simulation — constructing a specific scene (“I see myself finishing the climb, breathing steadily”).
- Prediction — estimating likelihood.
- Intention — deciding what you want.
- Planning — laying out the steps.
They usually operate together.
Why the pictures matter
Sociologist Fred Polak argued that the images a person or a culture holds of the future are a driving force of history. A living, attractive image of a better world pulls people forward; a decaying or purely catastrophic image produces paralysis or decline. The pictures are not just reflections of reality—they help create it by directing attention, effort, and courage.
That is why practices such as writing a “best possible self” letter, running scenario workshops, or simply sitting still and seeing a concrete good outcome in detail can change mood and behavior. The image becomes a reference point you can steer toward.
Two common mistakes
- Treating the image as a rigid prediction instead of a working sketch that can be revised.
- Only imaging disaster. A mind that rehearses only collapse has less material with which to invent alternatives.
Imaging the future, then, is the act of making the not-yet visible enough that you can start living toward it today.
===
162.6 lbs/12.4%
9ish hours sleep
480ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 0 push ups, 0 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 box jumps (24"), Bulgarian split squats with 25lb dumbells, nordic curls, heel and toe raises
87/98/-12 per Strava Power & Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: Black List, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
SOMETIMES PRE-VIEWING IS JUST A HECKUVA A GOOD REMINDER
THE FIRST WE EVER RACE A COURSE, taking the time to recon from parking to finish, even if it's just the first 5 miles...
... can pay oodles and oodles.
If we have the time,
pay the dime.
Pre-view it all.
But, what if we've already raced it?
Trust me on this...
- the turns
- the sunlight angles
- how the herd responds over undulations
... we'll never have the course as dialed as the locals.
I was reminded of this today
- 36 miles
- 4500' of vert
- most of it off road
... pre-riding the first 33ish miles of our upcoming epic SurfNSummit.
The reminder wasn't the route so much as these specific issues...
- check your batteries - the one day I don't check the shifter batteries the night before and my casual spin to the start turns into sprinting home to replace a 2032 and then pin it to meet the crew - we don't wait, ever.
- respect the pre-ride like we'd expect the race day - I went low on my calories/bottle and extra gels in the pocket and really suffered for it on the way back
- if at all possible - have the cold/icy water if it's going to be hot vs the "room temperature" free water that was as warm as the outside air of 100º. this made eating the NutttrButtrs during the last 90 minutes impossible because my stomach wasn't loving the hot water
- have the bike in the finest working order - that fouled rear 2-speed unable to access my 3 lowest gears made the 50 minute climb unnecessarily challenging
- pace to race - in this case, while grateful to have 4 of the posse join us, they weren't doing the whole thing and rather than high zone 2, we were bouncing between tempo and threshold for the first 90 minutes, which is not the plan for the epic adventure
... that said, it was great to push the pace and be reminded of such idiocy.
Interestingly, while the big climb was a definite grind, and with the superlow cadence I couldn't put out as much power...
... my time was only 7 seconds slower than during the event last year.
Go figure.
No.
Go preview,
as much as possible.
And if we can't in person,
we try and dig up some YouTube intel.
===
165.4 lbs/12.4%
7ish hours sleep
480ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 0 push ups, 0 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 box jumps (24"), Bulgarian split squats with 25lb dumbells, nordic curls, heel and toe raises
89/113/-24 per Strava Power &Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: Full Black, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
SHARPENING THE EDGES WITH ANGER
HAVING CONTROL OF OUR EMOTIONS on race day doesn't mean just playing it cool. Some emotions are better than others...
... for those who know how to harness them.
Like anger.
I'm not ashamed to admit, below that happy go lucky, come what may demeanor...
... is one hacked off dude.
If I have to/I've been known to...
... conjure up the most heinous reasons to crush the least deserving, most innocent competitors on the line.
Don't worry,
they never know.
Anger works for me.
I had a business partner say...
... you're so mellow
and
... dude, you have authority issues
... during the same meeting!
lol
Here's the real dill.
When I was younger it was uncontrollable and cost me a lot of points on the tennis court and life in general.
These days, if I'm rejected, disrespected, doubted, stomped on...
... that rocket flame of anger is powerful stuff.
Suddenly, I have this amazing laser focus combined with get outta my way energy.
I love that.
- heck no I don't want cookies
- heck yes I'm doing that work out
- heck no I'm not staying out late
- heck yes I need that upgrade
It's way better if I can get it going months, sometimes years in advance, but...
... making it up on the start line is a great way to lock in and race.
You might be askin' What the heck is wrong with you Diesel?...
... let's just say getting rejected on a home we were trying to buy has me pouring jet fuel on PEDAL industries.
Yeah,
harnessed anger is lit.
===
163.4 lbs/12.4%
8ish hours sleep
480ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 0 push ups, 0 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 box jumps (24"), Bulgarian split squats with 25lb dumbells, nordic curls, heel and toe raises
155/138/17 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: Full Black, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
>
REAL VISION
ALONG THE WAY to a glorious A race we face a lot of decisions. Some are micro, others macro. How we handle them...
... depends on our vision of how it will end.
What are we seeing?
I've long been fascinated with visualization techniques.
Once I learned of the concept via the great Denis Waitley's Psychology of Winning...
... the pieces began to fall into place.
Things I was underconciously aware of suddenly made sense.
The question that remained was...
... Could it be mastered and controlled?
From a practical standpoint, I can confirm that having a clear vision of how I want to cross the finish line...
- good food choices
- commitment to excellent sleep
- making time for and executing the critical workouts when desire is flat
... has given me the strength to accomplish the steps necessary along the way.
Which lends immense and undeniable confidence as the A race approaches…
… because we approach all the prep as if the finish has already happened.
We literally see everything with new eyes.
But, what if it works in all areas of life, not just racing?
What would that be worth,
what does it tell us about our present circumstances...
... what are we going to do about it?
===
162.8 lbs/12.4%
8ish hours sleep
480ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 0 push ups, 0 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 box jumps (24"), Bulgarian split squats with 25lb dumbells, nordic curls, heel and toe raises
158/156/2 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: Full Black, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
SPRINTING FOR THE WIN
UNLESS WE ARE ACTUALLY sprinters, racing events on the track or crits, it's unlikely we'll ever sprint for the win. We might race our pals to the city limits sign or...
... bang bars with other pack fodder.
So, why practice sprinting?
Here are my top reasons...
- to maintain, increase strength
- as a supplement to weight training
- to cement in neuromuscular connections so I can harness said power
... I have one dedicated sprint day per week.
This is not an interval session,
with efforts lasting minutes.
Yuck!
This is all out getting after it,
in bursts of 5-15 seconds,
spaced with full recovery.
I like to do 'em offroad.
Tonights was particularly fun.
Yes fun!
On the downhill sections, any time I had a chance to get on the pedals hard and keep my speed up, I went for it.
Not only was I recruiting the sprint muscles...
- legs
- butt
- core
- back
- arms
- shoulders
... I was reinforcing how it all works together over rapidly changing terrain.
Which is, in a sense, sprinting for the win.
The win being staying strong and coordinated.
===
163.4 lbs/12.6%
7 hours sleep
480 anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 60 push ups, 14 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 20 box jumps (24"), Bulgarian split squats with 25lb dumbells, nordic curls, heel and toe raises
161/170/-10 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: Full Black, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE F-WORD NOBODY WANTS TO USE
IT'S JUST INCREDIBLE the amount of reasons we can come up with when we find ourselves OTB (off the back)...
... whether it's dropping anchor or slipsliding away.
Bring on the excuses.
Like today's TMWC stacked with visiting hitters...
... we were pinning it something vicious, all the way..
Until I started spinning the slowslide of shame,
with five miles to go.
Giving me plenty of time to think of all the reasons...
- haven't shaved legs since July
- got to bed to late
- creatine made me put on 5 lbs
- my Classified hub is dying and dragging
- upped my box jumps and other leg stuff Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday
- walked 3 miles in the sand Sunday (normally just 2)
- left a little late and had to hustle to meet group
- gravel pedals and shoes vs road
- unaero gravel frame
- somewhat shallow road wheels
- less than aero helmet
- extra weight from lights now that it's dark
... while gimping to the finish.
But.
We all know the truth...
... and it starts with F.
FATIGUE.
It's offseason fur cryin outloud!...
... what the heck am I doing?
Well, just the most lifechanging, epic adventure on SoCal...
- 120 miles
- 15k of vert
- around 12 hours (including stops)
... the SurfNSummit on 10.10.26
Sooooooooo... 1 more extralarge Saturday,
then two weeks to taper,
and feel fresh.
Might have to skip the legwork the week of,
or sooner?
===
165.8 lbs/12.6%
7 hours sleep
630ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 0 push ups, 0 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 box jumps (24"), nordic curls, heel and toe raises
162/179/-18 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: Full Black, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
I SPY
WE LIKE TO SAY this is my escape, to ride/run/swim for an hour or few per day. Our happy place isn't a pain cave as much as it is...
... a world without staring at glass.
Is it novel?
There was a pithy post on X this week...
... I'm inviting a bunch of people over this weekend to doomscroll together.
My other non-scrolling/glass moments are reading.
Ingesting something uplifting in the wee morning hours has been a goto for years.
But, then this happened.
The wind down used to be watching "just a few minutes" of TV,
then onto binge watching...
... now it's a full-on addiction to reading spy novels.
They're all basically the same character...
- ex-special ops dude with skills his government needs
- always going off the range to get the job done
- while mixing in some lady-drama
... and I can't seem to get enough.
It started after my TBI,
as therapy.
Who knew staring and scrolling glass was bad juju for brain function and ocular wellness?
In about 30 months, I've read...
- all of Jack Carr (10)
- all of the Gray Man series (15)
- all of the Pike Logan series (20)
- and I'm on book 11 of 25 in the Scot Harvath (series)
... with no end in sight.
From a therapeutic standpoint, my ability to rip downhill on my MTB has returned to about 90% of where I was.
From Oh crap! every ride,
to Heckyeah! this is fun!
Is there any connection between being a spy and racing?
Well, yeah.
If being resourceful, able to adjust on the fly, and see the mission through to completion is how you like to rip on raceday...
... this is your genre.
===
166.2 lbs/12.6%
8 hours sleep
630 anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 60 push ups, 12 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 box jumps (24"), nordic curls, heel and toe raises
156/144/12 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: Full Black, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
NOW FOR THE REST OF OUR SHOW
WE'RE WRAPPING UP THE 3RD QUARTER, heading into the final three months of the year...
... but not the end of the racing the calendar.
Am I right?
We aren't going to...
- hang it up for 2 months
- watch games
- eat chips
... because we know the truth.
Now is the time to...
- bank strength
- build base
- hone diet
... for springtime cometh.
That's what I'm doing.
Shoot, tonight I passed on cake an icecream.
It wasn't hard, once I gave up sugar, the cravings were gone.
In years past, I'd say Bring it on, it's offseason...
... to the point of friends saying It's good to see fatTodd is back.
Imagine that.
Actually, don't.
Imagine ripping it up next spring, right on through the summer.
===
165.8 lbs/12.6%
8 hours sleep
620 anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 80 push ups, 16 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 20 box jumps (24"), nordic curls, heel and toe raises
159/163/-4 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: Full Black, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
TORQUE TRAINING... STILL?
SOME OF US ARE WILLING to take chance with our equipment. Opting to go with the yet to be tried and true...
... can lead to great advantages.
And, big challenges.
As I struggled mightily up a rather steep pitch today...
- 52/42 chainrings
- 13/26 6 speed cassette
... I remembered how tall the gearing was back in the day.
It was brutal.
But, one of the benefits we didn't realize back then was forced torque training...
- high power
- low cadence
- in place of gym time
... something coaches preach in today's era of super wide gearing.
So, why was I doing it today?
Because my super niche 2-speed rear hub from Classified, which replaced the front derailleur dual chain rings...
... has been acting up for the last 2 weeks.
And died today.
Leaving me with the lowest gear of a 46 in front x40 in back.
Manageable on most road climbs...
... swear-inducing on the dirt steeps I faced throughout today's epic URBN GRVL ride.
I've had the system for just over 2 years,
and it has been great.
Superior, I think, to traditional 1x most cats are running offroad.
Because the Surf N Summit is fast approaching...
... I'm in a real pickle.
Classified is based in the Netherlands...
... which is much father away than the hinterlands.
They have few dealers in the states.
Hopefully, they'll get back to me in time to get the system functioning like the racewinning force it has been.
It was a risk when I purchased it,
and I don't regret it at all.
It's that good.
===
166.2 lbs/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
630ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 0 push ups, 0 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 box jumps (24"), nordic curls, heel and toe raises
163/186/-24 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: Full Black, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THIS CHAING HURTS
STAYING ON TOP of the maintenance game never seems like it's gonna pay off. It's a constant steady drip on our time and wallets...
... until it's not.
Then, it's chunky.
I was reminded of this today by reader Roberto (not his real name).
Here's the chat transcript:
Are wax chains supposed yo make any noise when shifting? When i freshly wax it shifting into the lighter gears, sounds smooth, but sometimes when I shift to the harder gears a little bit of a clink
hmmm usually it's the opposite. noisier in the larger rings. generally, they are super quiet until they need more wax. I prefer Ceramic Speed UFO. Is your chain new and the cassette old?
Yes chain is newish first rewax cassette is year old got a new tri bike last year
that's probably the problem. old chain was probably stretched and the old cassette is so worn it doesn't play nice with new chain. get a chain wear tool so you can stay on top of the changes in the future and extend the life of the cassette and front rings, too.
Ok will do. Im sure there is videos on how to use one
it's super easy. this is a good reminder for me to change my gravel bike chain... blog post inspo received.
Getting a new roadie soon so im gonna order a kit to match look out for order here soone
You might see a good match here: https://pedalindustries.com/pages/insiders ... haven't released these just yet.
Did you notice how I slyly worked in a shameless promotion to the convo?
There's like a million color options.
===
165.4 lbs/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
630 anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 0 push ups, 0 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 box jumps (24"), nordic curls, heel and toe raises
153/128/24 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: Foreign Influence, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
>
SHIFT I HATE
DO YOU KNOW WHY WE SAY If it was easy everyone would do it? It's not just because it's true, it's also because for those of us who are doing the hard stuff...
... we need to know there's a reason.
We do things we hate to do.
Here's a few of mine..
- pullups
- pushups
- box jumps
- stretching
- going to work after a glorious morning riding
- hanging on the back of the group until I literally see stars
- skipping the cookies and cake and ice cream
... and I could go on.
If we are doing things like the above so much,
if it really is that hard to be consistent...
... what is driving us?
A couple of things.
One, it gets easier once we get started.
Two, it becomes habitual, part of operating system.
Three, the really big one...
... we know.
We know this is the path to mastery...
... and few are we, the willing and committed.
To arrive at our stated destiny.
===
165.2 lbs/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
750 anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 55 push ups, 11 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 20 box jumps (24"), nordic curls, heel and toe raises
157/148/8 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: Foreign Influence, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
>
THIS ONE CHANGE MADE A HUGE DIFFERENCE
WE ALL HAVE THAT FRIEND who we train with, who is about the speed, or even a little slower. Then, all of the sudden, seemingly out of the blue...
... they are a lot faster.
Leaving us in the dust.
What gives?
Just yesterday I was on the war path with one of these cats.
We'd opted to take a gravel route of the usual group ride, and if we reallyreally got after it...
... we'd meet/beat the group at the finish.
And romp we did.
I knew we had a shot because of his newly found powers.
And, I knew how he got them.
Because I asked.
Bro, your a lot faster and leaner.
It's my wife's fault.
Howso?
Well, she changed up her diet and she does most of the cooking and we're eating a lot cleaner.
If it's that easy then...
... why aren't we all doing it?
Maybe we don't know what eating clean is?
Here's my super simple rule...
... If I can identify the ingredients it's clean.
Steak,
easy.
Mr. Bachan's Japanese Teriyaki Sauce Surfergirl wants to smother it with,
not so much - probs not clean.
Corn on the cob,
easy.
Dorito's corn chips,
impossible - def not clean.
What is the one change we can make today that would make a huge difference in our performance?
Do it.
Then, stack it...
... with the next change.
Yes, it's that easy.
It just takes a bit of time for the results to show...
... fortunately, most of our competitors don't have time for that.
===
165.8 lbs/12.7%
8 hours sleep
790 anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 105 push ups, 21 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 40 box jumps (24"), nordic curls, heel and toe raises
160/168/-8 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: Foreign Influence, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THERE ARE SOME DOOZIES OUT THERE
THERE ARE SO MANY INFOOLENCERS yaking for our attention on myriad platforms. It creates all kinds of noise and...
... makes discerning the truth challenging.
Impossible even.
I was reminded of the dangers of expert opinions today listening to The Marketing School podcast titled...
... How McKinsey Helped Nike Lose $223 Billion.
With a B.
TLDL: they hired a guy who didn't understand the business, and he leaned into all the new fangled, cool kid ideas, in the process destroying the brand.
Some were so stupid it was stunning.
Which reminded me of the Time-Crunched Cyclist podcast I'd listened to the day before...
... The Five Self=Coached Cycling Mistakes That Keep You Stuck.
TLDL: he states we're too unenlightened to coach ourselves, hire his firm.
Along the way apologizing for being so harsh. Except I didn't find it as harsh as it was condescending and self-serving.
I shared the above, so I could share this...
- we need to expose ourselves to new ideas
- test them out well before it matters
- implement the best
... using our common sense, listening to our inner voice, for the win.
Are there good coaches and consultants.
Absolutely.
As the great Charlie Munger said...
... Show me the incentive, and I'll show you the outcome.
===
166.4 lbs/12.7%
7ish hours sleep
540ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 0 push ups, 0 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 ATG air squats and 0 split squats, nordic curls, 0 box jumps, heel and toe raises
161/172/-12 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: Foreign Influence, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
FAMILY FIRST. REALLY?
LOOKING AROUND AMONGST OUR FRIENDS we often see what really drives them. It's not at the races or the slaying rides where this shows up...
... it's at the events they miss.
Huh?
Yeah.
You know, we have this epic ride coming up.
It's not race, it's a social adventure.
From the beach to the mountains...
... the kind of thing you wanna do for the pure challenge.
And.
To blow your friends' minds...
... Yeah, I rode from Dana Point to Big Bear last Saturday.
WHAT?!
Yep, really fun.
No way!
Here's the dill.
A few have shared...
- planning Xterra with daughter
- family half marathon with most of family in Long Beach
- flying to Chicago to support daughter at Chicago marathon
... their reasons for missing this year.
Here's what I can tell ya about each one of these cats...
... they have grown awesome, loving families.
Nothing better.
In case weekend of 10.10 is open for you...
... it's an open invite: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/surf-n-summit-collection
===
166.2 lbs/12.7%
7.5ish hours sleep
540ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 105 push ups, 21 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 ATG air squats and 0 split squats, nordic curls, 50 box jumps, heel and toe raises
160/168/-8 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: Foreign Influence, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
ANY SYSTEMS READY TO GO?
WE ALL WANNA BE BETTER, at least that's what we tell ourselves. Anybody listening to us drone on about the initiatives we're gonna take...
... might possibly be convinced we really want the prize.
But, do we?
Could our actions convict us?
Better question.
What's it gonna take?
Not the big crazy actions,
that's for sure.
We'll never get those done,
because they are big and crazy.
The real secret...
... having a system to be a little better every day.
And, sticking to it.
One of my systems is to weigh myself each morning. I get instant feedback on the previous day(s) nutrition choices. It's a simple way to stay in tune with any changes I may have/have not made...
... like I'm thinking my adding 5lbs in the last month is a direct result of the predicted 2-3% gain predicted by consistent creatine intake.
Worth it?
===
166.2 lbs/12.7%
7.5ish hours sleep
540ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 105 push ups, 21 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 ATG air squats and 0 split squats, nordic curls, 50 box jumps, heel and toe raises
160/168/-8 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: Foreign Influence, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
SIRMIXALOTS GRAND MASTER GRAVEL
DEPENDING ON THE LOCALE, there can be a lot of ways to get out and cover some ground. Some areas are all paved, others all single track, others lots of gravel...
... they're all a blast.
Which is best?
I dunno.
But, I can tell you this, where we are, mixing it up on a gravel bike is a great way to get out...
... and skip most of the lights, and traffic.
Like today.
The first 90 minutes were mostly dirt...
... with nearly 30 minutes at threshold or above.
Meeting up with a slaying group ride on the road...
... pushed me to my limits and stacked on the intensity.
From there it was a JRA road, gravel and single track.
I love rides that...
- mix up the surfaces
- skip most high traffic areas
- and traverse lots of interesting terrain
... for the pure adventure.
The biggest and best one of the year is just 4 weeks away...
- Sunrise to sunset
- from Dana Point
- to Big Bear
... and you're invited.
All the details are here: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/surf-n-summit-collection 
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/surf-n-summit-collection
===
166.8 lbs/12.8%
7.5ish hours sleep
540ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 0 push ups, 0 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 ATG air squats and 0 split squats, nordic curls, 0 box jumps, heel and toe raises
164/192/-29 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: Foreign Influence, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
JRA
BEING THE DEDICATED ADDICTS that we are, we eventually learn the jargon that sets us apart from the commoners who consider themselves in the know, but...
... are actually far from it.
Neophytes.
Anybody who's worked in a bike shop, particularly the service area has heard the phrase...
... I was just riding along.
And, said to themselves under muffled breath, while inconspicuously rolling their eyes...
... JRA.
What follows JRA...
- my X broke
- my Y stopped working
- my Z fell off and disappeared
... is always entertaining.
Not that it hasn't been heard before,
but the way it is camouflaged...
... as if it is somehow the shop's/mechanic's fault.
Yet, I digress.
Because what I really wanted to point out is how much fun it is to move about the country...
- breathtaking sunrises
- quiet, forgotten roads and trails
- daylight giving way to a moonless, star-filled sky
... and see so many amazing sites.
While we are...
... JRA.
===
167.2 lbs/12.7%
7.5ish hours sleep
540ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 0 push ups, 0 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 ATG air squats and 0 split squats, nordic curls, 0 box jumps, heel and toe raises
155/144/11 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: The Apostle, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THAT FEELING
SOMETIMES when we're out riding, the feeling is just right. Like we could just keep going forever...
... and never stop.
Why is that?
I honestly don't know.
It just happens.
And, when it does it's magical.
Like this evening.
There I was, about an hour in.
On my gravel bike, connecting the...
- trails
- roads
- single tracks
... and missing all the traffic stops and lights.
Slipping into the zone...
- HR 130ish
- PWR 220ish
... slicing through town with nary a stop.
And loving it.
===
166.2 lbs/12.7%
7.5ish hours sleep
540ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 30 push ups, 6 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 ATG air squats and 0 split squats, nordic curls, 30 box jumps, heel and toe raises
160/175/-16 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: The Apostles, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
IF I HAD A DOLLAR FOR EVERY TIME THINGS LOOKED HOPELESS...
FOR BETTER OR WORSE, as athletes we are really, really good at enduring. When things look absolutely hopeless...
... we press on.
Is that a good thing?
That's an honest question...
... with an unknowable answer.
Because choices stack.
Accumulate.
Tangent: when I had my pager business, my landlord, an old sage and jeweler by trade, told me the worst thing he ever did was keep switching careers. That it was best to lock in, and go in search of mastery.
Welp, I could see the writing on the wall and sold the pager business.
After that, I took his advice,
and can honestly say:
If I had a dollar for every time things looked hopeless and gave up...
... I'd be broke.
In sports...
... we be _____?
In relationships...
... we be _____?
As students...
... we be _____?
There is, of course, a point where things are hopeless, and we gotta/outta sell, but, if there's anything most of us can bank on it's that...
... there is such a thing as a second wind.
Reaching the finish/the goal usually just takes a little more than we initially thought we could give.
And, so, we endure.
===
166.2 lbs/12.7%
7.5ish hours sleep
540ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 30 push ups, 6 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 ATG air squats and 0 split squats, nordic curls, 30 box jumps, heel and toe raises
160/175/-16 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: The Apostles, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
IT'S NOT PERSONAL, IT'S...
SOMEHOW WE FEEL IT'S OKAY to do whatever it takes to win, even if it means clobbering our friends. Ok, not all of us, but...
... definitely some of us.
We might feel, think, say...
... It's not personal, it's racing.
Shoot, one of my frenemies said this to me after a recent race post sucking my wheel for miles...
... Sorry about doing you dirty back there.
All that to say, It's okay to make things personal.
Not all things.
But, I'm definitely making The Wall personal.
It's the next to last climb...
- .88 miles
- 7.1% average grade
- my PR is 4:16, Kevin Vermaerke (yeah, the UAE one) owns the KOM, 3:06
... on our Tuesday Morning World Championships.
While I'm not sure I'll ever best my current PR, set 8 years ago on a perfect day...
- weight down in the 150s
- great pace set by Zach Lloyd
- amazing road bike I shouldn't have sold
... I do wanna get back to regularly hitting 4:40ish vs the 5:24 I did today.
When we set personal challenges like this,
it's motivating only to ourselves,
but pays off everywhere else.
It's fitness and mental fortitude we can tap into on demand.
===
166.6 lbs/12.6%
6ish hours sleep
540ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 0 push ups, 0 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 ATG air squats and 0 split squats, nordic curls, 00 box jumps, heel and toe raises
160/176/-16 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: The Apostles, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
IT'S TOO HARD TO EXPLAIN
DO WE KNOW WHY we do really hard stuff? I mean, really? We keep doing them. Like a young mother who, during the midst of labor, swears she'll never go through childbirth another time...
... and choosing to do it again.
There's something we know,
but can't put our fingers on.
As the great Carl Jung put it...
... Man needs difficulties. They are necessary for health.
It's not the difficulty that repeatedly pulls us back...
... it's the joy we experience on the other side.
Like the insanity of starting a gravel ride at Dana Point, in predawn hours...
- pavement
- to gravel
- to singletrack
- to gravel
- to pavement
- to single track
- to gravel
... and clearing the final summit above Big Bear, as the sun drifts away.
If we did alone, it would be courageous...
... if we did it with friends, it would be the memory of a lifetime.
As the great Terry from Mesa told me today...
- it's your 6th year
- I'm feeling fit
- I'm coming
... I'm always busy.
I'm in.
Are you?
===
Do you know any of these cats?
Previous Finishers
Henri Kavaja (1)
Michael Gould (1)
Richard Brown (3)
Mike Maderos (1)
Richard Ramsey (3) <12 (1)
Josh Wolff (2)
Chris Hill (1) <12 (1)
Spencer Roundy (3)
Michael Foster (4)
Ron Barrett (1)
Todd Brown (4) <12 (1)
Terry Butler (1)
Brennan Sizemore (1)
(times finished)
<12 - completions under 12 hours elapsed time.
===
165.2 lbs/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
540ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 80 push ups, 16 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 ATG air squats and 0 split squats, nordic curls, 00 box jumps, heel and toe raises
154/139/15 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: The Apostles, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
AN ADVENTUROUS PACE
A TRUE ADVENTURE requires a pace that is fast enough to get to the destination, yet slow enough that all can...
... make it to the finish.
It's a fine line.
Shackleton had is crew on a boat.
Pacing wasn't the issue...
- hazardous journey
- low wages
- bitter cold
- long hours of complete darkness
- honor and recognition in event of succeess
... so much as outright danger.
In this case,
all the men needed was the hope of success.
Which is what a proper pace should be...
... given an adventure of epic proportions.
The Surf N Summit may not be a novel exploration of the Antarctic, but it does require...
- manageable heart rate, low power
- lots of food and drink
- solid equipment
... because, it's a legit journey from the sands of Dana Point to the peaks of the San Bernardino mountains above Big Bear.
If you're in, go here now: https://pedalindustries.com/products/surf-n-summit-california-10-10-26
===
165.2 lbs/12.6%
7.5ish hours sleep
540ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 80 push ups, 16 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 ATG air squats and 0 split squats, nordic curls, 30 box jumps, heel and toe raises
156/153/3 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: The Apostles, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
SELLING ADVENTURE
WE SHOULDN'T NEED TO BE SOLD on adventure. It's in our DNA. Yet, often we are distracted and timechallenged and thinking...
... we are way too busy.
But,
life is short.
And,
as the great Ferris Bueller said...
... it comes at you fast.
Adventures, however...
- can be daunting
- involve the unknown
- create lasting memories
... which is why we go for them.
Especially, if we are/have...
... enlisted our posse.
On October 10th, we'll be riding the Surf N Summit for the sixth time this year.
The first two times...
- massive heatwave
- crazy early snowstorm
... we failed.
Last year, for the first time, everyone made the summit before sunset.
it's not for the timid,
those afraid to fail,
the unprepared...
... it's for the adventurous souls who dare what others fear to dream.
https://www.strava.com/activities/16111728104
===
165.2 lbs
7.8ish hours sleep
540ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 30 push ups, 6 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 ATG air squats and 0 split squats, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
1560175/-15 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: The Apostles, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE RING LEADER
EVERY COMMUNITY has a ringleader. The cat who's constantly inviting to do some ride or run or adventure or race. They're usually mostly fun...
... and sometimes absolute slayers.
Even that's fun.
Why does the ringleader lead?
Because, literally, the more the merrier.
Who appoints the ringleader?
Nobody, it's more of an inner calling.
Who supports the ringleader?
Those looking for a good time.
Who pays the ringleader?
Everyone,
just by showing up.
Somecommunities don't have a ringleader...
... they're waiting for us to show up.
And lead.
===
164.8 lbs
8ish hours sleep
540ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 30 push ups, 6 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 ATG air squats and 0 split squats, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
151/122/28 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: The Apostles, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
>
WHEN IT GETS ROUGH
IT DOESN'T TAKE A GENIUS to know we can go faster over a smooth surface than we can over rough terrain. That's why the most powerful sprinters...
... race on the track.
Indoors at the highest levels.
The rest of us get it done over...
- new tarmac
- gravel roads
- rowdy single track
... whatever we get served up.
Where we still need to put down the power,
whether sprinting or just plain ol' racing.
Here's the dill.
If we only ever train our sprinting on the most perfectist of surfaces...
... we're probably gonna stink it up, when it gets rough.
Practicing stomping on the pedals when it's...
- chunky
- slippery
- torn to pieces
... is a skill worth honing.
We've got to be able to perform excellently over all conditions.
When it gets challenging lower pressure in the tires is better...
- roll faster
- better grip
- faster cornering
... just like is in our souls when life gets topsy turvy.
Lower the pressure.
Which reminds me of a dear friend, the great Fritz Tomasello. who insisted we add backpack straps to the RaceDay bag...
... so he could carry his bike from the car to the track.
That's how pristine the indoor tracks are.
===
164.8 lbs
8ish hours sleep
540ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 55 push ups, 11 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 ATG air squats and 0 split squats, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
155/138/16 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: The Apostles, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
CHALLENGES CALL
THAT MONUMENTAL CHALLENGE calls to us, challenging us to prepare and be ready and we answer the call with all we've got. Not just going through the motions...
... this time.
Willing to do the impossible.
We've tried before.
Many times.
Only to fail.
Shattered.
We reconstitute.
To vanquish.
Yet again.
Not trying, doing...
.. the impossible.
===
165.6 lbs
8ish hours sleep
540ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 80 push ups, 16 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 ATG air squats and 0 split squats, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
157/151/5 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: The Apostles, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHAT'S THE WORST THING THAT COULD HAPPEN
MIND CONTROL is a thing. Especially on the start line when the energy is sky high due to...
... a cocktail of tapering and caffeine.
It
takes
real focus.
Just look at your "resting heart rate"...
... pumping like an outta shape donut eater on an outta control treadmill.
We aren't even moving,
because we are thinking about everything.
How do we calm that down,
achieve serenity?
This is important because if we don't get control our emotions we're going to be leaking all kinds of energy we're going to need later on.
Here are my top 5...
5. breathe deep, breathe slow
4. take in the craziness in the competitors' faces and just laugh - cuz it is funny
3. sit on the top tube, rest on the bars
2. close your eyes and trust your training
... and drumroll
... 1. race more so these feelings are welcomed
Oh, one more.
For hecksakes...
... get to the venue early.
Like 2 hours early so we can go through our launch sequence calmly.
Which brings up the ohso obvious.
Have your raceday bag loaded the night before, with everything you (could) possibly need.
Ok.
There's a lot more,
but those are the basics...
... before we unleash our mighty fury.
===
165.6 lbs
7ish hours sleep
540ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 0 push ups, 0 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 ATG air squats and 0 split squats, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
158/157/0 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: The Apostles, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
IS THERE REALLY AN OFFSEASON?
HOW ARE WE SUPPOSED TO MAINTAIN FITNESS if there are offseaons? It's a fair question and one that deserves...
... a fair answer.
I have my theory.
And it goes like this...
- get after it 2x/week
- keep stacking the base
- never get out of our routine
... there is no offseason.
But, there is an onseason.
What's the difference?
Look, we have to have a baseline of fitness.
For me, that means being somewhat respectable on the group rides.
If I let my fitness drop the point where I'm getting dropped quick,
that's dialed back too much.
When it's onseason, that means...
- I'll be charging the group rides
- stacking more endurance miles
- perfecting the every aspect of the routine
... everything gets dialed up.
Yeah, I thought of this as I yanked the gravel wheels off,
and mounted the road wheels.
Sticking with my commitment to hit the Tuesday Morning World Championships tomorrow...
... and shoot for a respectable sub-5 minute up The Wall.
===
166.2 lbs
7.5ish hours sleep
540ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 50 push ups, 10 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 ATG air squats and 20 split squats, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
153/123/29 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: The Last Patriot, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHAT'S NEXT?
THE KIDS ARE BACK IN SCHOOL. Things haven't changed much. Some sit in back semicheckedout...
... others up front and eager.
Just like a new race season.
As we head into fall...
- there's still a mess of events calling out to us
- bombarding our inboxes
- popping in the socials
... we still have choices.
Before we choose what's next...
- goals accomplished
- unforgettable memories
- regrets of missed or untaken opportunites
... reflecting/celebrating/acknowledging might be the best next event.
===
165.2 lbs
8ish hours sleep
540ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 100 push ups, 20 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 ATG air squats and 60 split squats, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
156/142/14 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: The Last Patriot, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
MORE AI SLOP?
UNDERSTANDING AI QUERIES, for most of us, is like understanding pig latin. If we don't have the key...
... it's meaningless.
Want proof?
Ok.
Rider X is a fast,
and uncoached.
Prepping for an upcoming, highly competitive gravel race...
... he had a sit down with Coach ChatGPT.
The recommended protocol?
Mostly endurance, but per ChatGPT I should as some higher zone work at the end of the ride to simulate race conditions.
Am I the only one who sees a problem with that?
Other than the fact that every romping gravel race I've ever done has started out like an XC race...
- completely pinned until the selections are made
- threatening to settle in before hitting it hard, again
- to the eventual war of attrition where riders finish mostly alone
... I'd say it's spot on.
lol.
So, yeah, as long as everyone agrees to save it to the last 30 mins then Coach Chat has it nailed.
In training...
- most of roll out,
- then, gradually warm up
- finally put in some good efforts
... which is probably why things unfold as they do.
Look, there are certain people I ping for their opinion knowing that whatever they suggest...
... the opposite is the best course of action.
With Coach Chat, it's not Be careful what you ask for as much as its...
... Be careful how you ask.
===
164.6 lbs
7.5ish hours sleep
540ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 0 push ups, 0 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 ATG air squats and 0 split squats, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
160/163/-3 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: The Last Patriot, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
GETTING DESTROYED FOR THE WIN
SINCE IT'S SO TEMPTING to sandbag, we should never be surprised that it goes on. At all competitive levels...
... it's a thing.
But,
why?
To get an easy V.
Where's the victory in that?
For the day to day group rides and non-A races...
... we should be lining up the monsters.
Who are going to push to our very limits...
... destroy us.
That's winning.
Ya know what else it is?...
... putting ourselves in position to win the ones that matter.
===
164 lbs
8 hours sleep
540ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 0 push ups, 0 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 ATG air squats and 0 split squats, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
153/120/33 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: The Last Patriot, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
>
WHY DO BODY WEIGHT EXERCISES
THERE ARE A LOT OF WAYS to get stronger on the bike. Whether we want to climb better, fly on the flats or lay down obscene sprints...
... we need more power.
How do we get it?
Akshully go to a gym,
lift heavy at home,
body weight.
They all work.
Lately, I've been in love with the body weight stuff.
Not just the pullup an pushup stuff...
... but, high rep leg work.
Till.
It.
Burns.
Yeah, it produces the same I can barely walk feeling...
... after rattling 'em off.
And, I'm rightly winded to prove it.
The reason I'm really digging these is...
- plain ol' grinding up a long climb
- pushing hard the final minute to the top
- poking my nose in the wind for way longer than normal
... the fatigue resistance it seems to be building.
I feel the fatigue building,
and I seem to be able to deal with it better than high weight, low rep.
It feels so good,
I love it.
===
163.8 lbs
8 hours sleep
540ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 75 push ups, 15 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 ATG air squats and 50 split squats, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
155/128/27 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: The Last Patriot, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
MOVING
MOST OF US, all of us, learned to run, swim and ride a bike at an early age. It came naturally to run, the bike a little coaxing, swimming a few pointers...
... and we were off.
Am I missing something?
Oh, yes.
Faith.
It took faith to put the coaxing and pointers into play and...
... realize we weren't gonna drown or fall over.
If, we'd just keep moving.
===
Designed this t-shirt, and realized why I love it so much.
Every successful racer begins with...
- 0 Starts
- 0 Wins
- 0 Fans
... the only difference between them and everyone else is they keep showing up.
Moving.
===
164.6 lbs
8 hours sleep
540ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 75 push ups, 15 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 ATG air squats and 30 split squats with 50lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
158/138/19 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: The Last Patriot, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
DOORS BLOWN OFF?
OCASSIONALLY, after an A race we might back it down for a few days. Then, think to ourselves...
... we really outta do something with this fitness and rest.
But, usually there's a problem.
Most of us, especially me, think we are resting and therefore recovered and hence ready to slay it.
I mean, if the metric are indicating it like mine were this morning...
... by golly let's get after it.
Welllllll, a funny thing happened on the final seven mile stretch.
Rather than romping like a renegade,
I limped like a lost loner.
It hurt,
I pulled the plug.
How could I have so misjudged my freshness...
- 81 mi
- 11 hrs
- 9,665'
... because last week 4 rides were far from restful.
I should been spinning the flats rather than grinding the climbs.
When I finally managed to make it home,
I thought might as well upload and see how badly my doors were blown off...
... Your highest power output for 30 seconds in 2026!
Oh...
... now what if we actually rested?
===
164.6 lbs
7 hours sleep
540ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 0 push ups, 0 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 ATG air squats and 0 split squats with 50lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
152/97/54 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: The Last Patriot, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
CAUSING EFFECT
MAKING PLANS for the upcoming event can be nerve-racking because there is so much unknown. There are really only...
... two paths forward.
It's gonna tricky,
it's gonna be awesome.
I was thinking about this, watching the highlights of Leadville.
There was our PEDALindustries flag,
right on the course,
where I imagined it.
Not just any part of the course, but a part of the course which was only open to racers who qualified much faster than me.
But, I really wanted to be there, too.
At Lost Canyon.
In my mind, it was a superior location for my feed zone.
So, made the 12' flags weeks prior to traveling.
Figuring it was gonna happen,
seeing them on course in my mind.
How'd we get the flag there?
First, I applied for a lottery to gain access.
Next, a blog reader and customer reached out and invited me to use his access to the area.
Then, I was informed I'd lotteried in to the zone myself.
That my friends is a magical way to live called...
... causing effect.
===
164.8 lbs
8 hours sleep
540ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 50 push ups, 10 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 50 ATG air squats and 0 split squats with 50lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
152/97/54 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: The Last Patriot, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
ONE REASON EATING HEALTHY MATTERS
SOMETIMES WE'RE ON POINT with our food choices, other times, for a variety of reasos...
... we fall off the wagon.
What's the damage?
Over the course of a lifetime,
probably nothing.
If it's occasional.
As the great Tim Ferriss advocated in The 4-Hour Body: An Uncommon Guide to Rapid Fat-Loss, Incredible Sex, and Becoming Superhuman...
... having a cheat day once a week won't kill us.
Might be helpful.
Honestly, I'm not 100% sure about that.
Here's what I do know.
If my cheat day is Sunday, and I go all in on the cheating...
... I'm likely to wake up a few pounds heavier on Monday, than I was on Friday.
Which is not really the point I wanted to share.
When I whipped up a salad today, with fresh veggies and Safe Catch tuna...
... all I could think about was how good this was going to be for my body.
That kind of thinking matters,
more than some might think.
===
165ish lbs
9sh hours sleep
540ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 50 push ups, 10 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 50 ATG air squats and 0 split squats with 50lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
155/108/46 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: The Last Patriot, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The entire works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE IMPORTANT THINGS
RETURNING HOME after a weekend or week(s) away on an adventure is usually awesome. The trip may have been amazing...
... but, not as much as what we left behind.
I was reminded of this today.
On a sweltering summer day,
we pushed through LA traffic...
... in time for a little family get together.
There really is nothing that compares.
===
164ish lbs
7ish hours sleep
540ish anti-oxidant level
Upper Body: 0 push ups, 0 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
Lower Body: 0 ATG air squats and 0 split squats with 50lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
159/125/34 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: The First Commandment, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing, Old Testament
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE THING I LIKE ABOUT WEIGHT TRAINING
Oct 08, 2021
by TODD BROWN
ONCE I REALIZED I DIDN'T HAVE TO GO TO THE GYM TO WEIGHT TRAIN, I got a regular plan going. Don't get me wrong, it's fun to go to the big box and hear the clanking and see all the preening. But, we aren't lifting for entertainment...
... we're going for results.
I get it done with adjustable barbells.
They quickly adjust from 20 lbs to 62.5 lbs, while taking up minimal space. Plus, a kettle bell. And, of course, the pull up bar. Oh, and my stairs.
Wednesdays are my designated day for weights year round. But, this time of year I also "lift" on Fridays, and sometimes on Mondays.
The thing that's great is it really taxes my legs, along with everything else. So, when I go for a ride I'm in no mood to put down the power...
... zone 2 rules the day.
And you know it feels like, doing this for a few months?
It feels like I'm doing a complete overhaul of a race car, down to the paint-stripped frame. Making everything stronger than before.
Better.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-tires/products/cinturato%E2%84%A2-gravel-h
With no training agenda, I'll be rolling on the gravel bike a like.
Have I told you how much I enjoy these tires?
They roll extremely fast, and still have a good edge for ripping the corners.
Made by Pirelli.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-tires/products/cinturato%E2%84%A2-gravel-h
SAVE 25% Join The PEDALindustries POSSE.
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---
POWER METERS CORRUPT AND ABSOLUTE POWER METERS...
Oct 07, 2021
by TODD BROWN
THE LITTLE OL' POWER METER, oh has it corrupted my good friend's approach to racing. Poor guy. I discovered this incorrect thinking when he related his latest attempt at a most difficult race...
... a mountainous error.
On the way back tonight...
How'd your last attempt go?
I had a good day, finished strong. No cramps.
That's great!
Yeah, except I got dropped on the climb.
The KOM?
No, Strawberry.
Now, I've done this race. And I've ridden that climb. It's huge. 30 miles from bottom to top and many thousands of feet gained...
... and it's not even the KOM climb!
I was blunt, because I love him.
You gotta climb more.
I put out good power.
Yeah, on the flats.
Isn't power, power?
And that's why I say power meters corrupt. This cat thinks power is power. It's not...
... because power is different in each riding position.
No, you have to train the position. You've need to spend a lot more training on terrain as close as possible to what you'll be racing.
Really?
Yes, all your Saturdays leading up the that race you must be climbing big long climbs.
But, I climb a lot on Saturdays.
Not like that race. We just have punchy 5-20 minute climbs around here. It's better than nothing, but not like a 60-90 minute climb. That takes getting use to, slightly different use of your leg muscles. Your back and core are activated differently. Different rhythms. Cadence.
Hmmmmm.
You gotta train the position to be in position to win.
That's power!
You know what else is power?
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This light combo is perfect for road riding in the dark. The thing I love is all the complaints other riders give me for the retina burning tail light.
And the headlight is plenty bright as well.
Use promo code: LIGHTS to save 10%
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights/products/urban-1000-commuter-combo
---
165.1
8 hrs Sleep
25 PullUps 50 PushUps
HypberVolt & Stretch
50 minutes reading + journaling
IT'S NOT ACTUALLY LIKE RIDING A BICYCLE
Oct 06, 2021
by TODD BROWN
ANYBODY THAT TELLS YOU IT'S LIKE RIDING A BICYCLE doesn't understand what riding a bicycle is. In fact, outside of the cats at Boston Dynamics, I'd say nary a soul on the planet understands what the heck we are doing...
... but, it doesn't matter does it?
Do we have to know the physics of pedaling to slap those gorgeous smiles on our faces every time we ride?
Nope.
We pedal over, around, up and down,
we ride fast and slow,
we flow...
... on faith.
We watch others and have faith we can do it too. We don't need to know exactly how it works.
That's all.
Well, not all.
Because this beautiful BMC hardtail was mis-shipped to us.
Rather than send it back to the warehouse...
... I'll make you this smoking offer:
Retail is $2000, you can snag it for $1800.
We shouldn't even discount, seeing how hard it is to get bikes. But, it would be a win-win...
... if you need a medium, that is.
Specs are here: https://www.bmc-switzerland.com/intl_en/twostroke-al-one-2022.html?currency=usd
---
164.7
7.5 hrs Sleep
30 PullUps 80 PushUps
HypberVolt & Stretch
70 minutes reading + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/6075256420
THE BEST WAY TO KEEP YOUR LEGS SPARKLY THIS TIME OF YEAR
Oct 05, 2021
by TODD BROWN
IT'S GETTING WETTER. Rain, sleet, snow. They're all on the way. We had rain all night, until 4am. I rolled at 530am anyway, because as a wise man once said...
... sometimes it rains on RaceDay.
The technique I used today to keep my legs sparkly requires brute force, guts and determination. Which means if you use it...
... you'll be gnaaaaaarly.
I didn't even notice I was doing it. Just doing my thing.
All the way to the start,
on a massive chunk of the ride,
and all the way home.
At a light, a certain handsome feller pulled up.
Oh man, look at my legs. My socks!
Bummer.
You're not even dirty.
Uh... maybe you should pull through more instead of mastering wheelsuckery.
Now, I just wanna be clear... we weren't drilling it today. In fact, I'll probably be posting soon about keeping things in check in the offseason.
Until then, keep challenging yourself.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r
Which is how I'll be signing your book when you order it.
Click here:
https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r
---
165.1
7.5 hrs Sleep
20 PullUps 60 PushUps
HypberVolt & Stretch
50 minutes reading + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/6067735396
THIS DUDE IS IN DENIAL
Oct 04, 2021
by TODD BROWN
I WAS JUST READING SOME OF THE HEADLINES FROM YESTERDAY'S EPICALLY EPIC BEYOND EPIC Paris-Roubaix. This one is just classic. I didn't even read the article...
... because we all know this dude!
Here it is...
oh, crud...
I can't stop laughing...
but, I promise...
I'll post it...
... hahahahahaha...
Lampaert: I think I was the strongest rider at Paris-Roubaix
Now that is some classic I coulda been a champ thinking right there.
What a dork!
Bro, if you were the strongest...
... YOU WOULD HAVE WON!
Because guess who won?
The strongest guy.
Oh, did you have some bad luck?
Did someone cut you off?
Did you get flatsypoo?
That's racing...
... that's exactly why we race.
To find out who really is the strongest.
Period.
Alright, not really.
That's why the pros race. Because they get paid to win.
We race to find out what we're made of.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/horton-collection
Watching the race unfold,
the mud,
the cold,
the terrible and treacherous cobbles...
I was reminded of the awesome images we have on the collaborations we made with The Horton Collection.
Check this bag out
Does that get you fired up to get out front and go for the W!
It does me.
Here's the link: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/horton-collection
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Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership
---
165.1
8.5 hrs Sleep
35 PullUps 780 PushUps
HypberVolt & Stretch
90 minutes reading + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/6065241987
TOP 2 MISTAKES ALL RACERS MAKE
Oct 03, 2021
by TODD BROWN
THERE ARE 2 WAYS TO SCREW UP YOUR RACE STRATEGY. Each has to do with vision. Not through the Oakleys or 100%s or KOOs, but far behind the retina...
... we fail to see things as they are.
I've made each of these mistakes.
First, we think everybody is way faster and better prepared than we are.
Second, we think they are all slow, weak and lacking grit.
Discipline is the only antidote.
We must trust our training and our plan to deliver the only result that matters...
... 100% of all we have.
That is success.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/t-shirts/products/local-legeng-t-shirt
Which is probably why I think this t-shirt is so funny.
When I wear it around town it gets a lot of laughs.
Which is really funny, considering most people don't know why we think it is so funny.
It's $20, and ships free.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/t-shirts/products/local-legeng-t-shirt
SAVE 25% Join The PEDALindustries POSSE.
Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership
Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership
---
164.9
6 hrs Sleep
30 PullUps 60 PushUps + kettlebell and shoulder presses
HypberVolt & Stretch
45 minutes reading + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/6058586285
THE HEART OF RACING IS ON LIFE SUPPORT
Oct 02, 2021
by TODD BROWN
IT COULD JUST BE ME, but I don't think it is. The heart of racing has changed. If you've been around a 1000 years, you'll know what I'm talking about. If you're new to bike racing, the heart of the sport is on life support...
... and that's a good thing.
Today's agro group ride was typical of what I'm talking about.
In fact, Rigo and I did just that. We talked.
So did Justin and I, fist bumping the great turnout.
And Patrick and I, he caught me up on his son Luke's winning ways.
And Bart and I, musing on the beautiful morning.
And Steve and I, waving while going in opposite directions.
... you get the idea.
The old days of outward anger and fire and rudeness are being buried. And, before you say
Old Diesel you're mellowing...
... just know there was all kind asskickery going on.
The new way is to kindly rip each other's legs off.
And I like it.
What is the source of the change?
Well, it just might be the influence of the softer, bigger tire sides of the sport. Which are where all the growth is...
... but, I'll let you be the judge on that.
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Or, it could be the quest for PRs is outweighing the I'mbetterthanyouare mentality.
That PR thing is something I cover in my new book.
You can get a copy on Amazon for $20...
... or, you can get it here for free: https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r
---
164.7
8.2 hrs Sleep
10 PullUps 30 PushUps
HypberVolt & Stretch
15 minutes reading + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/6054142943
THE EASIEST PROBLEM IN THE WORLD TO SOLVE
Oct 01, 2021
by TODD BROWN
WE HAVE A HUGE PROBLEM, you and me. It keeps a lot of our pals from joining us, and it's our own fault. Someone will ask, How far did you go?. And, this is where we blow it...
... we make it look easy.
Oh, I dunno. About 60 miles.
Think about that for a moment. For us, on bikes, its sheer joy.
For them, driving 60 miles sounds terrible. Sitting on a hard wedge, in pajamas, pedaling...
... unthinkable.
They consider the unthinkable, our ho-hum response, and there's no way to convince them that they'll be able to keep up...
... ergo, huge problem.
Of course, we could say we rode 8 miles and it was hard as hell. They'd believe that. If we challenged them, they'd be up for it.
Do we lie then?
Nah.
We just debelish, which is a word I made up just now and it means to de-embelish. Like this:
How far did you go?
About an hour.
Wow!
Yeah, I got a good warm up and cool down. It was actually pretty fun on this little trail or forgotten road.
That is something they'll believe. Yet another reason to report time vs miles.
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Then tell them you have this special lotion that takes all the pain away from your legs.
Because it does!
If you haven't tried PR Lotion...
... you're crazy.
Because it's crazy...
... how good it works.
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---
164.9
6 hrs Sleep
30 PullUps 60 PushUps + kettlebell and shoulder presses
HypberVolt & Stretch
45 minutes reading + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/6049881094
STOP COUNTING THE MILES
Sep 30, 2021
by TODD BROWN
THERE'S A REASON I DON'T COUNT MILES. I mean I do, but I don't. Not really. Because miles don't really count. There is only one thing that counts...
... time.
Time in the saddle.
In four hours on the road, I can cover 100 miles. On a twisty single track, 100 miles can take 8-9 hours.
Don't count the miles, make the miles count.
It's part of doing All You Can Do, one of the chapters of my book.
Check it out here: https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/the-way-of-the-racer
Check it out here: https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/the-way-of-the-racer
---
164.7
7 hrs Sleep
15 PullUps 30 PushUps + stand up padle
no recover work
58 minutes reading + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/6045530140
I'VE NEVER MET SOMEONE WHO COULDN'T RIDE 100 MILES
Sep 29, 2021
by TODD BROWN
HOW MANY PEOPLE HAVE YOU RIDDEN 100 MILES WITH? My first 100 miler was actually 125. 6 of us started out. 2 of us finished...
... everyone should have made it.
None of were accomplished. I had a mere 6 weeks of riding under my bib straps. The others had all started that summer. We were enthusiastic.
It took all day.
Sunrise to Sunset.
Why did the others quit? I dunno.
Fear maybe, that they'd get stuck in the middle of nowhere.
No sense of needing to rise to the challenge, perhaps.
Yesterday, reader Craig asked...
How do you do at least 10 pull ups each day? I tried to do 10 today and couldn't even do one.
I told him my secret.
I was pathetically weak, just like you. I started with one, the rest I did by jumping up and lowering myself down slowly. All those muscles are connected. Just get started, and stick with it. You can do it.
At BWR on Saturday, I caught up with friend Matt. He did the whole Waffle, 130 miles on gravel. We were laughing about the first time I dragged him out on a bike.
Do you remember that first ride?
Haha, yes, of course.
I couldn't even make the half mile to the trail. I was so embarrassed I turned around within about 5 minutes.
Look at you now!
You know, bikes has probably saved my life. I'm so much healthier.
That's why I say I've never met someone that couldn't ride 100 miles...
... now just imagine if they did!
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition
One thing we didn't have on our first hundy was good nutrition. First, we didn't now whatthehell we were doing. Second, there weren't good options anyway.
Just the SaltStick would have made a big difference that day.
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---
165.1
7 hrs Sleep
25 PullUps 50 PushUps + kettlebell and stair jumps
HypberVolt & Stretch
75 minutes reading + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/6040809928/
THE ORIGIN STORY
Sep 28, 2021
by TODD BROWN
THERE'S A LOOP IN UTAH THAT STARTED IT ALL. Beginning in the college town, riding across the valley, and up a giant climb. It's majestic. Rugged rock cliffs jut up on each side, graced with pine, aspen and bubbly streams...
... I never feel pain here.
I should, but I don't.
In the best of conditions, it's an hour to the top. In the worst, it can be deadly.
Heavy canyon winds.
Ice.
Rain.
Snow.
11 miles straight up. 3000' in vert. Topping out at 8000'.
Then, straight down, back to town.
But, not straightstraight. A series of countless turns, mostly banked and in good shape await.
Rippable.
The kind of terrain that makes one feel immortal...
... wishing it would never end.
That's my origin story of road racing.
I think the most beautiful part is that I'm not really a climber. Not the pure kind. But, born to climb nonetheless because I love it to so much....
... the effort,
being in the zone,
watching the rocks and trees slip by,
reaching the summit,
bombing down...
... that's my jam, what got me hooked, keeps me going.
Today was classic.
Took the gravel bike, 40s and all.
Temps in the 50s to start.
Light wind at the bottom,
light rain at the top.
Just me, like that first day.
Plus a snack at Sundance.
Perfect.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/kom-jackets
It was exactly the kind of climb I created the KOM jacket for...
... warm at the bottom, inclement weather at the top.
Pulled it out of my back center pocket, were it easily nested waiting to fly.
We make it from a superlight membrane fabric we import from Italy. It's breathable, yet extremely wind and water resistant.
The KOM jacket is truly one of my favorite pieces. Because along with the above it's pretty darn aero. I worked had getting sleeves just right so the jacket doesn't turn into a parachute.
It's my goto any time it's gonna be chilly, and potentially wet.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/kom-jackets
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It ain't right if you don't stop at Sundance for a snack.
---
165ish? no scale
8 hrs Sleep
0 PullUps 0 PushUps
No stretch today
10 minutes reading + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/6033851704
WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT E-BIKES?
Sep 27, 2021
by TODD BROWN
I HAD A GUY GET SO UPSET ABOUT MY LAST POST ON EBIKES HE QUIT READING THE BEST BLOG ON THE PLANET, AND HARSHLY TOLD ME OFF! I wonder how many more readers I'll lose with this one? No one that matters. Because quite frankly...
... I think e-bikes are for ______.
Before I spill the sport-beans, let me just say this morning was a total hoot. Shane, one our kids, borrowed a true e-bike (more on that below) for me.
We jammed an early morning scoot through his local mountains. Fire roads mainly, and a few hidden race tracks with berms and jumps.
The muscle memory was hilarious.
For years our family rode g-bikes (gas!) in the desert every weekend, each winter. The first hill we went down my right leg is stabbing down wildly and I can't figure it out.
It's looking for the rear brake pedal!
Ha, none of that on a real e-bike. Just pegs. The brakes are on the bars like an h-bike...
... excepted swapped, like a g-bike.
These e-bikes are pretty small, lightish (150 lbs lighter than a g-bike), with a healthy amount of travel and rake. Really whippable, once you get the feel of the thing...
... they have a bright future, for sure.
So, here are my thoughts.
H-bikes are human powered, have pedals, and will keep in you fantastic shape.
G-bikes are gas powered bikes with pegs.
E-bikes are electric powered bikes with pegs.
M-bikes are motorized bicycles, have pedals, and will allow those with health conditions to enjoy cycling. They help a lot of people get in betterthannothing shape by simply getting outside and moving around. They are great transportation, too.
Which one should you get?...
... the one that will deliver the results you want.
One last thought, please keep the e-bikes, m-bikes, and g-bikes off the sweet and fragile h-bike trails.
Side note, during the moto/kid raising years I kept riding h-bikes. Not as much as now, but I always rode. Always. And, most years I had one epic event during the summer to keep me focused throughout the year.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
Looking back, I think riding g-bikes got me used to full-finger gloves. The grip and control is so much better...
... which is why I developed the superlight race gloves for h-bikes.
They're like a second skin, a lithe layer.
If you order with the extra-amazing socks, the socks are free. No promo code needed.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
---
165ish? no scale
8 hrs Sleep
0 PullUps 50 PushUps
No stretch today
10 minutes reading + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/6027798382
https://www.strava.com/activities/6029226863
DON'T BE FOOLED BY THE HEALTHY CHOICE
Sep 26, 2021
by TODD BROWN
ONCE YOU REALIZE I'M ON THE ONLY ONE ON YOUR SIDE, life gets a lot easier. I have an amazing bullshytometer, developed through years of observing BS. It's so powerful...
... I have to shut my mouth most of the time.
Which, as it turns out, is a fantastic way of protecting against so much BS.
Take for example, Fat-free Redvines. The shouty statement on the packaging is the kinda BS that destroys athletic potential. Its purely poisonous corn syrup, of course there's no fat.
Or, Gluten-free ice-cream. Same shyty trick. It's cream, of course there's no gluten.
Another beauty, people who consume just a little bit of X are healthier. Same dern shyte because...
... most fools are chugging, smoking, and downing mass quantities of X.
Matthew Van Der Poel's health has not fully returned after going OTB at Olympic MTB race. Today, he should have been a major factor in the World Champs. He struggled mightily. This has nothing to do with consuming shyte...
... and everything to do with performance.
Health is paramount.
So, listen to me...
... and, by me, I mean you!
Listen to your intuition. How do you feel after X?
You and I want to go as fast as possible with these bodies of ours. It's up to us to know what's truly good for athletes.
Good stuff in,
good good power out.
My simple dietary rule for RaceDay Ready:
Eat as much raw food as possible
if I can't identify the ingredients by looking at the food in my hand, I skip it.
In a world of conspiring marketers, we've got to do our own research. We've got to pay attention. We've to be evermore vigilant...
... if we want to survive and thrive any quest, on or off the bike.
Develop your Bullshytometer, and share your findings with everyone...
... that is actually what friends are for.
Stay fast my friends!
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/hats-1
Some of the best reminders are things we wear, which I why I love this hat.
It reminds me that what I do today will affect how I do on RaceDay.
If you need a reminder like this, get one.
Not in the budget? Skip the next couple of caffeinated milkshakes from Starbucks.
Win-Win.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/hats-1
SAVE 25% Join The PEDALindustries POSSE.
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---
165ish? no scale
8 hrs Sleep
0 PullUps 30 PushUps
No stretch today
60 minutes reading + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/6018532536
BWR CEDAR CITY
Sep 25, 2021
by TODD BROWN
I HAVE DONE A FEW GRAVEL EVENTS, but this was a race. The others, more insane tests of endurance. The Crushar, crushed my soul. Rock Cobbler, endlessly nailed my body. BWR, The Belgian Waffle Ride...
... is bar to bar,
gravel to sand to asphalt to single track,
racing.
Drafting,
dust surfing.
I wanted to do a BWR for years, and I've wanted to do a gravel race for just a long. One thing that held me back was the humongous distance, 130 miles...
... but, my friend Bill, said do the Wafer.
60 miles.
I'm not sure if he said that or not, but turns out it was a little longer. 84 miles, 4000' of vert. No prob.
It started at 6am, with Belgian waffles. Real ones. Delicious.
At 745, we hit the course.
Superpro 5 mile police escort. There's just something about doing a race with police escort. I love it. It says...
... the promoter cares, the town cares.
Fortunately, I was warned that the first gravel sector started with all of us funneling down to double-file to go through a tiny tunnel under the highway. I came through top 15.
Good thing.
Bill, and his BBI henchmen, were single file and drilling it!
Gaps were opening.
The rest of us were clinging and closing.
Around mile 20, we swept up the PRO women, who'd left 7ish minutes ahead of us. We rolled on by, but then they started clawing their way to the front. Clearly they were game for our pace. This went on for a bit as we hit some twisty rollers...
... then we hit a stout climb.
It was the kind of climb where you think Ah, this must be the top and come around a turn to see another pitch.
I got ejected, along with what was left of the lead Wafer group.
A group of or guys made it.
But, it looked like a lot more because 6 or so of the top women were there.
Not knowing the course, throttling my pace seemed prudent. Plus, eventually we'd descend...
... and you know how The Old Diesel likes to rip down.
Enrique, Frank, Craig and I, gathered up 3 pro women and were laying down some good power. We worked well together.
We started picking up the Waffle riders who started 15 minutes ahead of us. Some of them worked with us, most just hung on. Can't blame 'em, they went another 50 miles.
Speaking of 50, just before aid station at mile 50 was a long sandy climb. I felt extremely fortunate to have a clear path and was able to clean the whole thing.
Are you getting a sense of the raciness of this?
The crafty, drafty?
Surfing from one group the next. Bigger cats dropped on climbs, then rolling up on the light cats. Working together.
Around mile 55, the Wafflers went right. We went left.
Suckers!
I say this in jest, it's clearly a much harder race. The Wafflers are awesome.
I had no idea how we were doing overall. In my mind there were 15 people up the road. And we were a long way back...
... the four of us had a pretty good rotation.
Early on I thought I might have cramping issues. I was hitting the Salt Tabs early and often. Drinking plenty - they give you cold, full, new waterbottles. Eating Honey Stinger waffles. Sucking down maple syrup. Saving the Hammer mocha caffeinated for the last 20 miles.
At our pace, I could see we were going to be much quicker than what I'd estimated. I was thinking 5 hours. We were going much faster.
Before the 5 miles of rocky, kinda technical single track, is a long gravel climb. Not a tree in sight. It's hot. Dusty. Any weakness would be amplified and unfortunately we lost my pal Frank.
3 of us hit the single track.
To my surprise, our skills were equal enough that we stayed in contact with each other. At the same time, we picked off one of the cats who hauled off early with the top pro women.
He was struggling.
We weren't.
Never saw him again.
We did see a dude with a groovy rainbow jersey. We blasted by. He gathered his reserves and caught on.
Next we saw Bill...
... going the opposite direction!
He usually beats me like a drum, so I figured he had finished and was riding back to find Frank. Nope. He'd missed a turn...
... which totally sucked.
As we're coming into town, guys are taking short pulls and skipping pulls. Not knowing any of them, I can't tell if they're tired or playing games.
I let a gap open. It got bigger. Finally someone came around. Then another. That answered that.
A mile later, Bill and rainbow guy slipped off the back.
Three of us left.
300 meters to go.
Lots of downtown corners...
... and bam, there's the grassy finish.
I wound up 2nd of our 3 up sprint. Could I have done better on that sprint?
I dunno.
Would I have ever in a million years guessed I'd end up 5th Overall and win my age group?
No way.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r
In my book, I cover the importance of reviewing each performance.
My takeaways?
I got to the start late, lined up in the back. Wasn't a big deal, but could have been.
For sure, I messed up that sprint. First, I should have pre-rode it yesterday. It would have been obvious how hard it would be to pass in final 300m.
I've been feeling pretty burned out since Leadville. If I'd prepped better, I think I would have made the early climb. But, maybe I'd have blown later trying to hold that pace. 1st-3rd beat us by 9 minutes.
My food was perfect.
My bike amazing.
I also talk about repeating, meaning racing again.
So, where's another gravel race?
Check it -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r
Yum.
Yeah, a ways back.
The four of us.
Phwew!
Yep, another waffle... with ice-cream and chocolate.
---
165ish? no scale
7 hrs Sleep
0 PullUps 0 PushUps
No stretch today
0 minutes reading + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/6018532536
WE AREN'T OUT OF THE WOODS YET
Sep 24, 2021
by TODD BROWN
THERE A FEW SKILLS YA JUST GOTTA HAVE if you're gonna be a rider of any respect. Whether or not you have 'em is real apparent when you're far from help, like we were today. My sexy MTB had be come a downer. Not a rip downer...
... a slow downer.
The back brake was dragging.
A lot.
The rear wheel would barely we spin and we wanted to rip this little single track. Stretch our legs after a long drive. Loosen up before BWR in the morning.
Simple recentering the brake didn't work.
I didn't have all the perfect tools, so here's the hack.
I cut an old credit card in half...
I loosed the brake, again,
dropped the wheel,
jammed a flathead between the calipers to spread 'em wide,
slammed the wheel back in...
... and shoved a piece of the credit card on each side of the rotor...
... then, pulled the brake lever, bringing those calipers in snug,
tightened the brake,
removed the credit card halves,
tightened the brake,
spun the wheel,
no drag,
went for a ride.
Normally, I have this cool little piece of steel with me. But, I didn't. I think that's one of the best parts of breaking down far from help...
... remembering how to improvise.
It's part of expecting good things to happen.
Which is part of The Way of The RACER.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r
Want to check it out?
Check it -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r
165ish? no scale
7 hrs Sleep
10 PullUps 30 PushUps
No stretch today
20 minutes reading + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/6013133967
CYCLIST DISCOVERS MASSIVE TIME HACK
Sep 23, 2021
by TODD BROWN
NEWS IS SPREADING AROUND THE INTERWEBS of a cyclist who has discovered a massive time hack. It happened at 11:06 am, Thursday, September 23, 2021 in San Clemente California. Due to an urgent need to move quickly...
... he learned how to cut his finishing time in half.
Some are calling it a miracle.
Others are very doubtful his recorded time is accurate.
We sent a reporter in.
Sir, you just cut a whopping 50% off your estimated finishing time.
Yes, it’s true. Phew... let me catch my breath.
Okay... ready?
Yeah... Hellyeah!
How did you do it?
Well, it’s like this. I knew I had to move twice as fast because I needed to get on the road. I simply had to haulass.
I don’t understand.
Me either.
I had all this work to do, got up a little earlier, raced around like my life was on the line...
... and finished in half the time.
Finished what? A race?
No, all my work so I could go to a race.
Am I the only one who has noticed how much we can get done when trying to get out of town?
Kinda makes ya wonder...
What I’m not wondering about is how I’ll do Saturday at BWR – Cedar City. Not one bit...
... no time hacks planned.
No Surfergirl handups,
No course recon,
No chat those who’ve done it.
Going full tourist mode, and looking forward to some beautiful and challenging terrain...
... on gravel.
It's a racer's life for me.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r
How about you?
Maybe you'd love this amazing book? Too much hype?
Check it -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r
165.2
78 hrs Sleep
10 PullUps 30 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
30 minutes reading + journaling
WHY THEY SUFFER AND WE DON'T
Sep 22, 2021
by TODD BROWN
TODAY WAS DRTY WDNSDAY. Sometimes it's MTB, sometimes it's gravel. Sometimes it's spicy, sometimes it's mild. My pal is visiting and I promised it would be mild, but I forgot. One cat's mild is another's
.... It burns, gimme some water!
His skills are on par descending, it was the climbing. He was hurting. Gasping, begging for directions back...
... No way, this next trail is too good!
Sometimes I can be evil that way, but only because I know this cat belongs in my posse. He's born to ride...
... and those born to ride don't really suffer.
Even when the legs and lungs burn, and they were searing,...
... they find joy.
When others quit...
... they persevere.
In defeat...
... they learn and improve.
Of course, once we returned, after the cool down, we sat in the fading sunlight. Smiled. Then he looked at me...
... Same time next week?
Hellyeah!
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
This kinda riding is the stuff our products are born from.
Steve sent me this pic and message today, pretty cool.
If you haven't tried out gloves and socks, don't you think it's time?
Especially with the insane, but the gloves get the socks special going?
Here's the link:
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
---
165.4
8 hrs Sleep
20 PullUps 60 PushUps + Kettle Bell work
Stretch and Hypervolt
70 minutes reading + journaling
MAYBE YOU CAN OUTSOURCE YOUR FITNESS
Sep 21, 2021
by TODD BROWN
ABOUT 7 WEEKS AGO I PUT OUT A MESSAGE. A request. A dare. A challenge. I needed guinea pigs, rats, mice? It went kinda like this...
... RIDERS WANTED:
10 weeks to RaceDay Ready: expect pain, mind-stretching, new habits, time lost. Results doubtful, confidence and fitness should you make it.
There was one thing that had people dropping like flies.
It surprised me.
They were required to post their results each day.
Just post.
Miss a day and they were out.
Hardcore.
Blocked.
Of course you can't outsource your fitness, but you can outsource your task master to some heinous person like me... and you should, if you need it... and a lot of us need it, not NEED, but need like need some sort of accountability.
So get a plan.
Like these cats who took me up.
Kyle B
I feel faster! Stronger overall sitting and standing. Another bonus is increase in motivation, when I feel stronger I want to ride more do more cross training and make nutrition better! It’s like a downhill ride start slow but picks up speed the more you go!!
Andrew S
Yes. For sure. Like Kyle I notice in the mirror. My chest is bigger and I am thinking I need to move up a shirt size from md to lg because the chest and shoulders are tight. It really is so quick and easy I don’t know why I just didn’t do it in the past.
---
If you're into that sort of thing, click here: https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-ready-wait-list
---
If you've got it all figured out, then maybe you need to treat yourself to something awesome.
---
---
Frankly, I think this is one of the cooler things we've made.
It's the Tour Changing Poncho with authentic photos from Horton Collection.
Check it out here:
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/changing-ponchos/products/tour-changing-poncho
SAVE 25% Join The PEDALindustries POSSE.
Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership
Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership
166
6 hrs Sleep
10 PullUps 30 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
10 minutes reading + journaling
COULD YOU BE A CYCLING GOD?
Sep 20, 2021
by TODD BROWN
WE CAN ALL BE CYCLING GODS. In fact, I'd say most of us are. Before you go sending me off to hell for blasphemy. Hear me out. I think I have a point, because like God, we are molding something from the proverbial clay. Our bodies, one pedal stroke at a time...
... god-like power it is.
We harness the potential within and become cyclists. We ride and get stronger. Our wimpy legs get tight and taught, even veiny...
... isn't it amazing?
We summit stairs and climbs with ease,
while others gasp and wheeze.
And, we love every moment of it.
If you haven't ever used your powers in a race, have I got a book for you.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r
And, if you have raced but wanna new approach...
Check it -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r
---
165.8
8.5 hrs Sleep
20 PullUps 40 PushUps (my baseline)
Stretch and Hypervolt
30 minutes reading + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5991612952
https://TWITTER.com/PEDALindustries
https://www.INSTAGRAM.com/pedalindustries/
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
HOW'S YOUR WILL POWER?
Sep 19, 2021
by TODD BROWN
MOST PEOPLE HAVE A CHEAT DAY, and end up cheating themselves. I was one of 'em for years. TBH, I still get on that train from time to time. But, that's not the point of this post...
... this Will fights aliens.
He's independent.
Successful.
Fresh.
Like a prince.
And here's how he lives his life.
So if you stay ready, you ain't gotta get ready, and that is how I run my life.
- Will Smith
Ready is the base level, not the top...
... the top is tapered and ready to slay it on RaceDay.
We should always be ready to take on any race, maybe not win it or PR it, but...
Fit.
Gear prepped.
Bike well-maintained.
... that kinda thing, that's the base.
The way we live, The Way of The RACER.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r
Depending on your time zone and where you find these nuggets of truth, it's either Sunday eve or Monday morn...
Make it a great week.
Make it even better with some inspirational reading.
It's on me.
Check it -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r
---
166
8 hrs Sleep
10 PullUps 20 PushUps (my baseline)
Stretch and Hypervolt
2 hrs minutes reading + journaling
https://www.STRAVA.com/activities/5981784788
https://TWITTER.com/PEDALindustries
https://www.INSTAGRAM.com/pedalindustries/
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
ARE YOU GETTING ENOUGH NOODLES IN YOUR DIET?
Sep 18, 2021
by TODD BROWN
FIRST, WHO HAS THE BEST NOODLES? The Italians, and their delicious pasta dishes? The Asians, with the amazing wok delights? Whatever your flavor...
... there's one noodle that must be a staple.
It's not noodle the word.
I'm talking about noodle the verb.
Which is exactly what I needed after a very punishing breakfast of pounding out 57 miles and 4500' feet of climbing with some of the fastest cats in town.
... wouldn't you agree?
At the apex of the final climb, I shut 'er down...
... coasting down to the coast,
then along the coast,
then a friendly snack,
and on home.
HR for the last 15 miles and 500' never got over 118, and dipped as low as 92. Ave speed 13.
That my friends is noodling...
... and I don't think we do enough of it.
Cruising.
People watching.
Barely touchin' them pedals.
Waiting patiently for the little ol' lady to cross the street.
Not cracking a sweat.
Not breathing hard.
Just chilling.
Have you had a healthy of noodling helping lately?
It's part of Doing All You Can Do, one of the Chapters in my brand new best-selling-for-me book.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r
If your cycling diet could use some new flavors, check it out.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r
---
165.4
7.5 hrs Sleep
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
33 minutes reading + journaling
https://www.STRAVA.com/activities/5981784788
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
I DON'T THINK YOU CAN HANDLE THIS
Sep 17, 2021
by TODD BROWN
AS THE GREAT BEYONCE SAYS, I don't thing you're ready for this jelly. 'been grooving to Bootylicious all day. Even added it to my WingedWolf playlist, because I just love the mindset...
... I don't think you can handle this!
It's the kind of mindset racers have when they roll into the parking lot. It's a swagger that comes from the confidence of being ready...
... to slay it.
How do we get there? We put in the time, do the work, ride the miles, we prep the bike, we eat like the athletes we were to be...
... it's our destiny to have a great day.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/the-way-of-the-racer
If you don't have a method to get your mind, body and soul read to race, may I suggest a book?
You pay the shipping, I'll send the book. No charge...
... really no charge, just the shipping?
I mean there will be a charge. You. You're gonna be charged to get after it.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/the-way-of-the-racer
---
165.4
7.5 hrs Sleep
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
33 minutes reading + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5977277614
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
YOU CAN ALWAYS GET FASTER
Sep 16, 2021
by TODD BROWN
YOU CAN ALWAYS GET FASTER. Always. That's the hardest and best part about getting really good at something. In beginning, the gains are rapid and huge. In the end...
... improvement is made of tiny slices.
But check it out.
If you rode 10 minutes longer each day,
that's 60 hours in a year.
If you ride 10 hours a week,
that 10 minutes turns into an additional 6 weeks of training.
Get off your butt,
get on your bike.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights
Cancel Netflix,
get up earlier.
I got a great compliment last night. It went like this.
I hate riding behind you.
Why?
That light is so annoying, it's blinding me.
Now you know why this is my goto set up for road riding in the dark.
Save 15%,
use promo code: LIGHTS
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights
SAVE 25% Join The PEDALindustries POSSE.
Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership
Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership
---
166
7 hrs Sleep
20 PullUps 20 Super PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
20 minutes reading + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5972621806
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
URBAN GRAVEL, IT'S THE BEST
Sep 15, 2021
by TODD BROWN
THERE'S JUST NOTHING QUITE LIKE URBAN GRAVEL, which is probably why it's so hard to explain. I mean really, how do you explain the thrill of the road with dirt, and curbs, and alleys, and singletrack...
... without sounding like a madman.
Mat made that clear tonight after tagging along on his MTB. He couldn't believe how fast we could go across dirt and somewhat raucous terrain. Then when it got smooth or we hit some pavement...
... he was off the back.
Poor guy.
But, not poor.
He was a lot richer for the experience.
You've opened my mind guys.
Yeah?
Yeah!... I've got my stoke for riding back.
And there it is.
Because URBN GRVL opens up a whole new network of loops and trails. It's a different kind of riding.
Less cars.
Less stress.
Less tradition.
More adventure.
More creative.
More stoke.
Back at the shop Jeff loaded up on a new Kask helmet, RaceDay Bag™, Socks and Honey Stinger waffles...
... saved about $60.
Because he's part of the PEDALposse.
SAVE 25% Join The PEDALindustries POSSE.
Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership
Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership
---
166.4
7.8 hrs Sleep
Gym Work
Stretch and Hypervolt
60 minutes reading + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5967574349
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
THIS IS GOING TO BE REALLY BAD NEWS FOR SOME OF YOU
Sep 14, 2021
by TODD BROWN
THERE ARE A LOT OF HARD TRUTHS IN BIKE RACING. Some are harder than others. Most are exceptionally difficult for a certain group of people. I don't mean to single them out, but I will...
... because I love them, the newly converted.
And, they need to hear...
... It's gonna take more than a year to haulass.
It's true.
And, if we're being really honest...
... It takes 3 years to figure out what kind of racing really suits our talents and skills.
So let's kit up and get after it.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/dia-de-los-muertos
This is one of my favorite themed kits.
Order by 10/1 and you'll have it in time.
Made from the finest Italian fabrics.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/dia-de-los-muertos
SAVE 25% Join The PEDALindustries POSSE.
Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership
Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership
---
167.1
8.5 hrs Sleep
20 PullUps 40 PushUps + Kettle Bell
Stretch and Hypervolt
22pages + journaling
Wahoo batt died... hoping to upload ride later.
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
WHAT IS AN OFFSEASON ANYWAY?
Sep 13, 2021
by TODD BROWN
AT SOME POINT IN THE NEXT FEW MONTHS we'll be calling it quits. Season over. Some of it is forced, there just aren't any more races on the calendar. The rest of it is welcomed...
... there just isn't any more will to race.
Either way, it always make me feel like a bear. A great grizzly who has rampaged through spring, loaded up in summer, bashed about in fall...
... ready to slumber.
Typically, right before the slumber part I tend to get really bear-like and pack on some extra pounds.
I take some time off.
I get antsy.
Then I start laying down the base. First just random miles and whatever pace seems fun. Then more time in the saddle, purposely down in Z1 and Z2.
Friends might wanna get all racy, I pass.
Keep taking it easy, like a slumbering bear. My body repairing and rejuvenating. Lots of miles alone.
The thing I like the most about this grizzly analogy is once the hibernation is over...
... I'm hungry, and lean (and mean).
Good night, now.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights/products/urban-1000-commuter-combo
Now's the time to get lights.
This promo is lit...
Save 15%
Use promo code LIGHTS
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights/products/urban-1000-commuter-combo
SAVE 25% Join The PEDALindustries POSSE.
Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership
SAVE 25% Join The PEDALindustries POSSE.
Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership
---
168.9
7.2 hrs Sleep
25 PullUps 50 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
14pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5955790979
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
THE QUICK GETAWAY WITH A HIGH RETURN
Sep 12, 2021
by TODD BROWN
AMONG THE MANY AMAZING BENEFITS OF RIDING BIKES is the quick getaway. Thrown on the kit, helmet and shoes, fill up a bottle, grab yer wallet...
... hello freedom.
At the end of a particularly challenging week, I needed a quick vacay. I did the above and set off with no particular place to go.
I find these rides essential to my survival.
They come with the added bonus of finding little hideaways which remain invisible to rest of our citizenry.
A lone bench high above town.
A bakery on a forgotten corner.
A country store on a quiet road.
A bicycle, mine anyways, has such a great return on investment...
... forget the rewards of good health and friendship, the mini vacations are priceless.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-wallets
This is my wallet of choice.
Made from innertube rubber, it is grippy and it really stays put inside a jersey pocket.
Check it out:
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-wallets
SAVE 25% Join The PEDALindustries POSSE.
Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership
---
167.8
8 hrs Sleep
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
10 pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5950288505
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
---
166.8
7.8 hrs Sleep
20 PullUps 40 PushUps + gym work
Stretch and Hypervolt
12 pages + journaling
No ride today.
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
HOW TO GET THROUGH THE HARDEST PART OF ANY RACE
Sep 11, 2021
by TODD BROWN
IT'S NOT THE BEGINNING. There's too much energy on the start line. It's not the end. The magnetic pull of seeing the finish is real. The hardest part of any race is the middle...
... that's where so many get lost.
Own that.
Acknowledge it.
Prepare for it.
Isn't that what training is?
All those long days in the saddle, the early mornings in the gym, decisions to eat like an athlete vs a slave to food. These are the choices that prepare us for the middle...
... because the middle sucks.
It's hard because the energy of the start is long gone, and pull of the finish line is literally nowhere in site. That's precisely where...
... most people quit.
How do we push through the tough parts, get over the climbs, recover from the challenges of failing bodies and broken parts?
We act as if we are already there, crossing the line, finishing in style.
It takes discipline to push on when we are so desperate to see progress.
We lean in and trust our training.
We make alliances with our foes.
We hold fast...
... to the end.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/books-n-such/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r
If you like the above, you'll probably like this.
The books are at the press now and will ship towards the end of September.
If you're in the PEDALposse, you'll be getting the book as part of this month's swag.
If you're not in the Posse here's the link for the book.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/books-n-such/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r
SAVE 25% Join The PEDALindustries POSSE.
Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership
---
166.8
7.5 hrs Sleep
25 PullUps 50 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
22 pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5943859210
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
RACEDAY READY™ IN 10 WEEKS
Sep 10, 2021
by TODD BROWN
ABOUT 6 WEEKS AGO I PUT OUT A POST ASKING FOR VOLUNTEERS. Guinea pigs really. I wanted to Beta test a 10 week training program I've been using for many years, and see how others would respond...
... well, pretty darn good.
They're being challenged,
held accountable,
getting ready!
I was reminded of this today when PEDALposse rider Jeff touched bases. He was asking about tomorrow's local ride and made the off-handed comment...
... the posts have been really good lately.
They all seem good to me, so I dug deeper.
Why?
Well, they're extra relevant.
Can ya give me an example?
Yeah, that one about getting your sleep right the night before. It was a really good reminder.
Ah, they've been inspired by the RaceDay Ready 10 program. I've been thinking about these cats getting ready for their big races and what they need to know. Some of it share with everybody.
Keep it up!
Can't help myself.
That is truth. I can't help thinking about how I can help these cats be super prepared on RaceDay...
... because when you're prepared,
you can handle anything life throws at ya.
We've got a lot to do to launch the app.
It'll will be included with the PEDALposse membership.
Speaking of saving a lot of money, one of my all time favorite pieces is the RaceDay Wallet™.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-wallets/products/custom-name-raceday-wallet
First off, it's small.
Second off, the innertube rubber is so grippy it really stays put inside a jersey pocket.
Third off... it's a great place to keep a goal or mantra.
I kept this very wallet with me for nearly a year prepping to break my PR. It worked for me, might work for you.
Check it out:
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-wallets/products/custom-name-raceday-wallet
SAVE 25% Join The PEDALindustries POSSE.
Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership
---
167
8 hrs Sleep
25 PullUps 50 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
13 pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5932703805
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
---
166.8
7.8 hrs Sleep
20 PullUps 40 PushUps + gym work
Stretch and Hypervolt
12 pages + journaling
No ride today.
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
WE DO THIS FUN THING OUT HERE... AND Y'ALL SHOULD DO IT, TOO
Sep 09, 2021
by TODD BROWN
THE LOCAL GROUP RIDE. Every town has one or two or more. Some are club only, others the more the merrier. It's where most of us learned to ride in a group...
... and got the taste of racing.
Some groups take it to a whole 'nother level. It's still renegade all the way, but there are logos and kits and awards and parties and shirts and fundraisers...
... grass roots at it's best.
Our is called The Tuesday Morning World Championships. We've moved the meet up corner several times, but the course has remained the same...
... for 18 years!
If you're wondering how to get one of these going in your town there are 4 key rules:
- Leave on time
- Obey the law
- Make a friend
- Have fun!
That's it. Ya just have to be cold-hearted about leaving on time. And, we never stop as a group for a flat. I've found rides that are erratic don't last because people can't plan around them.
Ours is coming up... you should join us.
It's real tame.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/unofficial-tmwc-2021
More of a social ride.
If ya can't make it and just want the t-shirt and fundraiser, we'll mail you the t-shirt.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/unofficial-tmwc-2021
SAVE 25% Join The PEDALindustries POSSE.
Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership
---
167
8 hrs Sleep
25 PullUps 50 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
13 pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5932703805
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
THE PERFECT RIDE BEGINS WITH THE PERFECT...
Sep 08, 2021
by TODD BROWN
I'M NOT EVEN SURE THIS IS TRUE. Well, I'm pretty sure based on my experience. The perfect ride begins with the...
... perfect night of sleep.
But, we all know the night before a big race can be challenging.
Our minds are racing,
our bodies are anxious,
our accommodations unfamiliar,
our support crew may have questions,
... here's how I do it.
Race Saturday? Get great sleep Thursday night. This really works, getting the great sleep early. It makes a huge difference if you get great sleep...
... the night before the night before.
Just knowing the previous night was spot on makes sleeping the night before the big ride a lot easier. At least, for me.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/all-raceday-bags
Of course, my RaceDay Bag™ is packed as early as possible, which also takes off a bunch of stress.
And what goes in my bag was tested and checked out well in advance.
Did you know we picked out the very best products to put in our bags, and you can purchase them right off our site? Yep.
Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership
---
165.2
5 hrs Sleep
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
8 pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5929854703
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
IGNORE THIS AND YOU MAY NEVER RACE AGAIN
Sep 07, 2021
by TODD BROWN
IGNORE THIS AND WE MAY NEVER RACE AGAIN. Bold I know, but sometimes it's gotta be that way because too often I've neglected to do the following...
... take some time off.
After a big training block, after the A race, after the event of the summer it's important so schedule a break.
It could be a few days to a couple of weeks of no riding. You'll know, and you'll know you need it when...
... the zest is gone.
You, me for sure, might think all is well. Just need to train a little more, that the results and fire will return...
... not likely.
I've seen cats ignore this. Keep going. Charging. Getting weaker and slower...
... until the love is lost.
Consider this: In surfing we have what is called the soul surfer. This cat doesn't compete, but is better than most pros. Surfing for the simple joy of surfing. For years. For life.
Take a break when needed...
... start back with some soul riding.
The best kind.
Always.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/recovery
This is one thing I never stop doing. The amazing HyperVolt. Nearly every night.
It just feels so darn good... well, not after a brutal race like tonight or a giant training ride. The first few minutes hurt, then it gets better...
... until the legs feel magical again.
Want to save 25%?
Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership
---
165.8
8 hrs Sleep
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
16 pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5924330656
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
HOW TO OUTWIT THE DEVIL
Sep 06, 2021
by TODD BROWN
YOU CAN CHOOSE YOUR BIKE. You can choose your kit. You can choose who you ride with and which races to focus on. Just remember one thing...
... those choices will hypnotize you.
Which is not a bad thing or a good thing.
It's just a thing.
Choose wisely.
---
Just one of the many nuggets I found in this very strange book, Outwitting The Devil.
The environment we live in is determined by the choices we make. That's kinda obvious. But, the idea that our environment hypnotizes us and keeps us hostage is powerful, even scary.
Yet, it's true.
For example, years ago we set up our Tuesday Morning World Championships. For decades I've been hauling my butt outta bed at o'dark thirty to meet the fellas.
It was hard at first.
But, a habit was formed. Friendships were made. Events were planned.
Here we are, a million years later, in better shape than 99% of our contemporaries.
Happy.
Healthy.
Having fun.
A trifecta of goodness, because we chose to be part of the environment of bike racers...
... and most of us don't even "race"!
We're just race ready.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/t-shirts
It's one of the reasons I like to wear this t-shirt.
Imagine if we all got just one more person to ride a bike.
$20 for the t-shirt, delivered!
... ships free through Sept 7th.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/t-shirts
Want to save 25%?
Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership
---
166.2
8 hrs Sleep
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
37 pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5916345713 PDDL
https://www.strava.com/activities/5917564216 RIDE
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
WHY IS IT SO INSPIRING, AND WHY IT MATTERS!
Sep 05, 2021
by TODD BROWN
SATURDAY, WAS THE MOST NAILBITING STAGE OF THE MOST EXCITING GRAND TOUR THIS YEAR. La Vuelta. It's been my favorite for years because it is far less predictable...
... far more exciting.
I don't know if it's because it's the last chance to score big wins, the shorter stages, the steeper gradients, or some combination..,
... I always find it inspirational.
Like yesterday, when 3rd place overall lost his mind and quit the race. He was gapped by 4th place who had forced the move to leap frog him. This was instigated because Ineos rolled the dice to try and get one of their riders on the final podium...
... meanwhile, some 23 year old cat punks the superstars and wins his first race ever.
But, why is it so inspirational?
Because we believe if we we're in their cleats we'd choose the same outlandish moves...
... to get the win!
If you're gonna sit on your bum and watch TV, get inspired: race tactics, drama and courageous moves.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/t-shirts
Who knows, maybe you'll make the move and become a Local Legend.
$20 and the Local Legend Tshirt is yours... ships FREE this week.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/t-shirts
Want to save 25%?
Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership
---
166.8
7.5 hrs Sleep
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
52 pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5911671230
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
THE HIDDEN BENEFIT TO HELLISH TRAINING.
Sep 04, 2021
by TODD BROWN
GIVE ME SOME WATER! It's furnace hot. The head wind, a giant hair dryer from hell...
... blasting us.
We're barely moving.
I grab a bottle from the downtube.
Bite the valve, pull.
Raise the bottom, suck.
Hot, rancid Tanglike yuck burns my throat.
But, it's all good...
... because this is the kinda training that does a body good.
Ya know why?
I mean some know about the hidden benefit to hellish training, and you might, too. But, if ya don't or if y'ave forgotten...
... training in the heat increase blood plasma.
More blood plasma = More VO2
More VO2 = More aerobic power
And, it doesn't just have to be a scorcher like today...
... could be indoor training with the fan off
... could be jumping in the sauna post ride.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/skratch
As the most interesting man in the world says, Stay hydrated my friends.
Want to save 25%?
Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership
---
165
7 hrs Sleep
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
4 pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5906528067
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
BLIND SQUIRREL WINS BIKE RACE
Sep 03, 2021
by TODD BROWN
EVEN A BLIND SQUIRREL FINDS A NUT EVERY NOW AND THEN. My friend Glenn taught me that, and I was reminded of it last night. There I was, first time on the new road bike...
... and I go All Blind Squirrel.
Now, I don't normally do this. Certainly not in a race...
... but, maybe I should?
There I am, feeling a little spicy. I'd been out for a few test rides, always on my "easy" days and never really hit it hard.
Well, you know how that new bike feeling can make ya go kinda crazy right?
That was me.
Really feeling it.
They didn't seem like legit attacks, but I'll be dawgawned if I didn't keep rolling off the front of the group.
We came to what I call Heartbreak Hill. It's a right hand sweeper that climbs up a bit. There is always a stiff breeze from the left, resulting in a fight for the gutter...
... so, like any blind squirrel would, I pegged the gutter.
No room for drafting off me.
Sometimes I'm evil-crafty that way.
There's a shadow of a rider behind me. I look back, it's Dave. And, clawing his way on is Henry...
... I keep rolling.
We rotate a bit.
I look back again.
Huge gap formed.
We press on.
And on.
All..
... the friggin' way
... to the line!
About 30 minutes, pegged.
I've done that ride close to one million times and made the long, attacking break stick exactly zero times.
On the cool down, Justin asked me...
What's the name of that bike?
It's a BMC.
No, the name?
A Teammachine.
NO... the name you gave it.
Pure Energy!
I think it's fitting.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/books-n-such/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r
If you liked this little ditty, you'll probably love this.
PEDALposse members, you'll be getting this in your September shipment. No need to order the first copy.
If you're not in the PEDALposse yet... well, you probably don't like
- Sweet swag sent to you every month
- Saving 25%
- Earning $ for sharing our mission
- Special access to our events
But, it you do...
then... Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership
---
165
6 hrs Sleep (unacceptable)
20 PullUps 40 PushUps + gym work
Stretch and Hypervolt
16 pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5901259347
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
TOP 5 REASONS TO HIT THE GYM
Sep 02, 2021
by TODD BROWN
FIRST, I HATE HITTING THE GYM. But, ya know it's the thing to do. Especially, in the off season. I try and keep it manageable...
... I hit the home gym.
Pull Ups and Push Ups are my main stays, and here are the top 5 reasons.
- Strong core
- Strong back
- Strong grip
- Better posture
- Much improved bike handling
- Much improved out of the saddle climbing and sprinting.
If you're not into that stuff,
if you're too busy to spend 5-10 minutes a day,
if you prefer looking like a T-Rex...
... then skip it.
But, really, it's less than 10 minutes most day.
Way less.
And yes, I know that was 6...
... I like to overdeliver.
Talk about overdelivering...
... have you checked out the PEDALposse?
Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-pedalposse
---
165.3
8 hrs
20 PullUps 40 PushUps + gym work
Stretch and Hypervolt
22 pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5891143024
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
WE DON'T HAVE ONE MORE DAY
Sep 01, 2021
by TODD BROWN
ABOVE IS PIC FROM COMPETITOR MAGAZINE, circa 2000. It's an article I wrote about my first Leadville experience. The highs, the lows. I wanted to share the stoke and get others to go. Many have gone...
... and many have said some day.
That's the problem. We think we'll be here forever. We put off the big events, the things we want to do, that could be lasting memories or even life changing.
Surfergirl reminded me of that today when I showed her a link to a new product.
Remember the magazine articles you wrote.
Yeah.
I have them saved.
Where?
We pulled out a box of mementos. And there they were. So cool to look back through some of the fun things we've done on bikes over the years. Trips, races, and some writing...
... unforgettable memories.
If you're hesitant to do your first race or event or if you're looking for a fresh approach...
... this is what sparked Surfergirl's memory.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/books-n-such/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r
After year's of her encouragement, it's done.
PEDALposse members, you'll be getting this in your September shipment. No need to order the first copy.
If you're not in yet, tomorrow never comes.
Join now.
Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership
---
165.3
8 hrs
20 PullUps 40 PushUps + gym work
Stretch and Hypervolt
22 pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5891143024
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
A WORD ON WARMING UP
Aug 31, 2021
by TODD BROWN
HOW LONG SHOULD I WARM UP, DIESEL? The question reminds me of the old Benz turbo diesel SSB drove. It had glow plugs which needed to heat up before the engine would fire...
... we’re a lot like those old diesels.
We need to warm up. A proper warmup can be the difference between winning and losing, PRing and flailing.
But, before we get to answering the warmup question, the part a lot of us foul up – I know I have – is arriving late to the venue. Not only do we arrive late, we waste all kinds of emotional energy stressing about it...
... energy lost, perhaps costing the win.
I like to arrive at least an hour and a half early, sometimes two and half hours. How long I’ll need to warm up will determine how early I should arrive.
Here’s the formula, the amount of time spent warming up is inversely correlated to how long the race will last.
Track racers, whose race might be as short as 60 seconds, often warm up for an hour or more. Endurance racers, who might race for 9 hours, don’t warm up at all.
Tonight, I’m racing for about an hour. I’ll warm up for nearly that long. Leadville, no warmup at all.
In a nutshell...
... the longer the race, the shorter the warmup.
Play with it.
Master it.
How to warm up I’ll save for another day.
I should point out the main advantage of a proper warmup...
... hitting it hard the second the flag drops.
Depending on the course and the style of race, it's not uncommon for an early gap to form and the leaders never seen again.
Just something to think about.
My friend Char always arrives early. She's a National Champ on the track, so she's used to showing up way early and getting a proper warm up.
Note, she's also sporting a sweet and very custom RaceDay Bag™.
I'm pointing this out for two reasons:
- If it's good enough for a champ, you probably need one, too.
- If you have one, you probably have a friend who could use one and trust me, you'll want to order that way before Christmas this year.
Go here -> https://pedalindustries.com/pages/all-raceday-bags
---
165.7
8 hrs
10 PullUps 30 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
18 pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5885674867
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
IT WASN'T LUCK, IT WAS TRAINING.
Aug 30, 2021
by TODD BROWN
A GOOD RACE IS LIKE A GOOD BOOK. They have a hook. Something that grabs ya. It could be the name, this history, the location, the recommendation. If they don't...
... we rarely start 'em.
So, when my riding pal, TTB, suggested a book after I suggested a race I said...
... let me check it out.
I'm hooked.
How's this for an opening scene...
... I'm gonna die. I'm gonna die. I'm gonna die.
A battle.
A young kid, in the thick of it. Shoulder to shoulder with grisly vets. A brutal enemy approaching fast.
He survives.
Wounded.
With this wise observation...
... It wasn't luck, it was training.
Sure sounds like my first race to me. It was a crit. The speeds were astonishing and the angst to win palpable.
That first turn did feel like I could die.
Soon, I was shot out the back.
Wounded ego wounded.
My veteran friends finished laughing and happy with the effort. There was a big difference between me and them...
... it wasn't luck, it was training.
I'll close with a quote from the Purple One...
Train wisely my friends.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
And when you go to battle, look sharp, and protect thy hands.
This month... buy the gloves and the socks are free.
No promo code needed.
---
166.9
7 hrs
25 PullUps 50 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
38 pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5880065545
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
THE ONE THING ALL RACE WINNERS DO
Aug 29, 2021
by TODD BROWN
THERE ARE A LOT OF WAYS TO LOSE THE RACE. Some of them have cute little initials we pronounce as verbs. The two most popular are DNF'd and DNS'. Did not finish, did not start. They can be found at the bottom of any start list...
... the other you won't find anywhere.
Yes, the third and most insidious way to lose a race is the saddest of all.
When you think about it, DNF can be for a variety of reasons. Straight up quit because didn't want to post a bad result...
...Ugh!...
... to crashed out, had a mechanical, bad stomach, cramps, lost my mind, felt like taking a nap. It's. a long list and often very valid.
That's why they are above DNS.
DNSing has it's own reason...
... life, priorities, work, sick, etc... also, generally worthy.
For the most part, I'm down with all the reasons we might not finish because shiz happens. We prepare, we do our best...
... so, forget the rest!
But, the third is DNRing. Did not register.
This one never shows up in the record books...
... there is no record for not trying.
So, get registered.
It's what all winners do.
There's an old tshirt touting the virtues of Life Behind Bars, the bars being handle bars.
If you're gonna do that, you'll need a firm grip.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
This month... buy the gloves and the socks are free.
No promo code needed.
---
166.9
8.5 hrs
15 PullUps 30 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
65 pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5875046262
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
I DIDN'T ACCOMPLISH ANYTHING
Aug 28, 2021
by TODD BROWN
NEARLY 9 YEARS AGO MY BEST TRAINING PARTNER SHOWED UP. He hadn't ridden since he was a kid. He wanted to get serious, really give it a go. Sweeter words were never heard...
... Hey Dad, I wanna try racing.
I picked up an MTB for him, Sponsored By Dad was still a thing then. But, the road was calling. I hadn't raced road for decades...
... I'd forgotten how exciting it was to put down the power and have traction.
The training was so fun that next summer. Lots of time riding side by side.
Then the racing started. Mostly he raced. I met him all over the West - Bend, SLC, Phoenix, Tucson. Supporting, driving, occasionally kitting up to give it a go. He charged through the categories...
... I was inspired to get back at it, too.
Time passed.
School got busy.
Career got started.
Bike got sold.
Recently, he moved back to SoCal.
They decided to settle down here.
His old MTB, from way back when, came into the shop to get some major servicing done.
An order went in for a serious BMC MTB racing rig.
Being the sneaky sunuvagun that I am, I suggested You should train for Leadville and do it with me next year...
... figuring it will go nowhere.
We met at Laguna Wilderness today, some of the best singletrack around.
I'm numbering my rides on Strava.
Whadaya mean?
This is ride number 5 since I'm back at it.
Was it wrong of me to enjoy him huffing and puffing while I cruised along?...
... not after him shelling me for those brief years of racing.
Was it inappropriate to try and drop him on the downhills?...
... not when I looked over my should to see him smile and say I'm drafting.
Was it bad of me to sell him on an upcoming race?...
... not when he says he just wants to be able to keep up with me.
Back at his car, he uploaded.
I didn't accomplish anything.
Huh?
First time here, no cups or PRs.
I could have said...
No, you didn't unless you count your dream career, marriage and carving out your own place on the planet.
... before I could get a word out...
Next time will be nothing but PRs.
I hope I can keep up.
One of the things I loved about those racing days was talking about what was working.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/recovery
For sure, this works.
It's like magic, which is exactly what I'm gonna need.
Top 4 Reasons
People Join
The PEDALposse
• 25% Savings On Every Order
(15-20% on bikes & wheels).
• Surprise Swag Every Month
(you know you deserve it)
• Referral Rewards
yep, I'm gonna pay ya when you spread the word
• Special Events
me and you and who knows who?
https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-pedalposse
Best trail sign ever.
---
166.7 (this isn't going to help)
6 hrs (nor this)
0 PullUps 0 PushUps (or this)
Stretch and Hypervolt
https://www.strava.com/activities/5868352991
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
THE RHYTHM IS GONNA GET YA
Aug 27, 2021
by TODD BROWN
ONE OF THE THINGS I MISS ABOUT HAVING A POWER METER is seeing my cadence. Pre-power meter, I would geek out on cadence, then I got a way from it. And then, I got back into it with my previous MTB...
... looking at those revs.
There's something satisfying about seeing that little strip of data. Comforting almost. Easily controlled...
... yes, the rhythm can be easily lost or found.
Sometimes we're blasting up a hill. In the zone. The pitch increases, or maybe it's the lactic burn...
... suddenly, we're going nowhere.
Seemingly backward.
We're tired.
Not thinking.
Just grinding.
That moment right there, yeah... that'd be a good one to see our cadence. Realize it's all wonkadoo..,
... and shift the dern gears.
It's like the magnetic Gloria Estefan says...
... The rhythm is gonna get ya!
The only question is...
... Is it going to be a long grind or a quick zip to the top?
I've found 90 revs a minute to be my sweet spot.
What's yours?
---
Have you checked out all the benefits of joining the PEDALposse?
https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-pedalposse
---
164.7
7 hrs
25 PullUps 50 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
https://www.strava.com/activities/5863547791
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
FOOLISH OR STUBBORN?
Aug 26, 2021
by TODD BROWN
MY FRIEND JEANA SENT ME THIS PIC with the words You were too fast!. She was referring to my half my head missing from the image. I wasn't. In fact, I was working my way backwards from first to fourth...
... that's the truth.
I like the sentiment nonetheless because I was going a lot faster than I had gone the previous two weeks. These short, 1 hour efforts are really demanding. I rarely ever ride like this.
Was I bummed to falter at the end, sure.
That's normal.
But, only a fool would focus on the scoreboard vs the positive results.
We're out for mastery, and as the great Leonardo DaVinci preached it's going to take...
... Ostinato rigore.
Stubborn rigor.
Have you checked out all the benefits of joining the PEDALposse?
https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-pedalposse
---
164.7
7 hrs
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
https://www.strava.com/activities/5859420217
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
HUSTLE AND GUILE, FOR THE WIN!
Aug 25, 2021
by TODD BROWN
MY OTHER DAD PASSED THIS EVENING. He came into my life when I needed a strong father figure. And boy, was he strong. Like you just knew he wasn't to be trifled with and at the same time...
... he had the biggest heart ever.
He had no business getting involved with us. He and our mother were on and off at best, but he was always on as far as we were concerned. We had a bond, an unexplainable one that lasted a lifetime.
He taught me tennis, a sport he fell in love with later in life. I wasn't very good. I was weak, and gangly, a true late bloomer. He told me that was an advantage...
... I'd be forced to learn proper technique and my mind.
Always looking for the good in any situation.
But, the best thing he taught me when it came to life and sports was that was okay to be underestimated...
... he'd been underestimated his entire life.
He was a Mexican immigrant, he wasn't very big, his own father had been largely missing...
... and yet, he'd built a wonderful life for himself...
... because he was a fighter.
So many times I saw him take the court against larger, younger, faster players and drive them absolutely crazy...
... he won through hustle and guile.
He knew it,
they knew it,
I knew it...
... and I loved it.
It was simple and raw and pure.
He was, and remains, a true hero.
A mentor.
A giver.
A father.
As I write this, I'm not sad. We had a lot of good times during the past year. Cancer can be kind that way.
He'd lost so much weight the boyish features in his face returned. He looked like the young man he once was, full of life, shipping off to Korea - cigarette in mouth, a t-shirt, rolled jeans. Black hair, big confident smile...
... hustle and guile.
Till we meet again, Roberto Alcaraz Gomez.
---
Have you checked out all the benefits of joining the PEDALposse?
https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-pedalposse
---
165.1
9 hrs
10 PullUps 20 PushUps + Gym work
no stretch no hypervolt
https://www.strava.com/activities/5854294696
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
TOP 3 REASONS I RACE MY BIKE
Aug 25, 2021
by TODD BROWN
I'VE BEEN RACING FOR DECADES. Some years a lot, most years a handful, others just once. I don't think I've missed a year since 1997...
... but that hasn't been the goal.
By that I mean racing in and of itself was never the driver. Don't get me wrong, I love it...
... and here are the top three reasons why:
- Having a big race or ride on the calendar keeps my base fitness up. My fatness may increase during the year, my miles may dip, but there's a standard to be maintained if I'm racing at some point. That has requires great health year round.
- I've been fortunate to be able to have a regular midweek ride that doubles as a race and triples as a support group. These cats become, over time, my confidants and trusted friends.
- The last is figuring out what it's going to take to have a great day on the bike. This is one of those constant curiosities that keeps me fascinated. What can I do? What is possible? What's it gonna take to accomplish X?
That's it.
That's why I race.
Stay in shape, friendship, the personal challenge.
Why am I racing tonight? Get used to intensity again, see my pals, hang onto Chris' wheel as long as possible...
... I got so excited by this prospect I neglected to send the email.
Race recap: led first half lap, forced break with Series Leader Kurt and the alwaysfast Chris, lost contact with them on final lap and blew the sprint. Kurt won. The great part about losing is realizing how much improvement there is needed.
Have you checked out all the benefits of joining the PEDALposse?
https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-pedalposse
---
165.1
7 hrs
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
no stretch no hypervolt
https://www.strava.com/activities/5848549818
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
ABSOLUTELY SOLID ADVICE ABOUT TOMORROW'S WORKOUT
Aug 23, 2021
by TODD BROWN
I KNOW IT'S LATE AND YOU'RE TIRED, or maybe it's cold and your cozy, or possibly it's early and dark. Whatever it is, here is some really solid advice about tomorrow's workout...
... you should skip it.
I was thinking about that when I got a text from Lane. He told me he's down 65 lbs. since joining the PEDALposse and needed to change his shirt size. Then he added this...
... It's time to go PR LoToJa.
That's a 200 mile bike race, not a ride. Through 3 different states...
... guess what Lane hasn't been doing.
Skipping the workouts.
He's been skipping the donuts and ice cream, but not the workout. Which is why I highly recommend you skip tomorrow's work out...
... but today, get your buns in gear.
Same goes for tomorrow, which will be today when you wake up.
And the next day.
I like Lane's chances, do you like yours?
There are a lot of reasons to join the PEDALposse.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-pedalposse
Here are the top 4:
• 25% Savings On Every Order
(15-20% on bikes & wheels).
• Surprise Swag Every Month
(you know you deserve it)
• Referral Rewards
yep, I'm gonna pay ya when you spread the word
• Special Events
me and you and who knows who?
https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-pedalposse
---
165.8
7.5 hrs
25 PullUps 50 PushUps + other stuff
10 min Stretch, 20 min HyperVolt
https://www.strava.com/activities/5840331447
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
ANOTHER KEY TO RIDING A LOT FASTER
Aug 22, 2021
by TODD BROWN
I'M ALWAYS AMAZED AT THE AMOUNT OF PEOPLE THAT CONFUSE WISHBONE WITH BACKBONE. It really doesn't matter the topic, but we see it all the time in with cycling abilities...
... I wish I could ride as fast as you.
Ok, come and ride and stretch and eat and lift and do what I do...
... Oh, I didn't mean it like that.
What I want to say next is something like,
Well, just how the hell did you mean it? Don't you realize all good things require work? What kind of a child are you anyway?
What I end up saying is something like,
Well, let me know when you really want it.
if we're going to be great at something, anything...
... we've got to do it with real intent.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-for-speed-comfort-and-recovery
When we have real intent secrets are unfolded.
My friend Kurt said to me at recent race... I read the blog all the time. I've learned a lot of your secrets. Then proceeded to rip my legs off.
I'm guessing he knows about PR Lotion.
Save 25% when you join the PEDALposse -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-pedalposse
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166
9.5 hrs
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
20 min Stretch
https://www.strava.com/activities/5837713912
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
RIDE PAUSED.
Aug 21, 2021
by TODD BROWN
IT WAS MORE THAN MISTY, LESS THAN RAINY, OCCASIONALLY DRIZZLY. About an hour in and my socks, gloves and butt were soaked. I wasn't cold, just drenched. My Wahoo screen's message was only a wish...
... RIDE AUTO-PAUSED.
While stopped at one of the few lights on the route, I thought to myself...
... I wish.
We rode on.
I would say it was more of a commitment to the plan than joy to be riding. A lot more. But, there was something else...
... something to be overcome.
First, there's the obvious If I can't handle the rain on a training ride, how am I gonna deal with it racing?
- Flats. We saw a lot of cats pulled over fixing flats. Fortunately, the four of us are all running tubeless set ups and this wasn't an issue.
- Traction. I dropped my PSI a bit and felt confident all day except one turn where I found myself on our extraslick road paint. A minor slip, a great reminder to stay off the paint, all paint.
- Being soaked sucks, but before long we adjust and adapt.
- Lube, my UFO lube got pretty noisy after 3 hours.
- Food. Still gotta eat and drink, but we drank a lot less - we weren't hammering.
- Glasses. Love my photochromatic lens for all light conditions.
Seeing far fewer riders on the today reminded me why the rain never bothers me in a race, because I know most aren't nearly as prepared...
... one of the greatest superpowers of all is experience.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights
It's always good to have lights on board, especially as the days shorten.
Use promo code: LIGHTS
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights
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165.3
9 hrs (Vuelta induced nap)
PullUps 0 PushUps
20 min Stretch
https://www.strava.com/activities/5830782031
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
IS THAT LIKE PELOTON?
Aug 20, 2021
by TODD BROWN
A DUDE STOPPED ME OUTSIDE OF CHRONIC TACOS. I was getting lunch and he saw the van. Asked, What is PEDAL industries, is it like Peloton? I had a lot of responses run through my mind...
... I settled on the truth.
Because the truth of the matter is that Peloton for all it's swanky swagger and dressed up drama...
... has managed to get a lot people on bikes.
Yes, they are indoors. But, who cares? Really?
Especially since a lot of those fancied up trainer riders are moving outdoors and riding long distances and doing gran fondos and tours and...
... they are even doing races.
Yep.
As far as I'm concerned, we're just one big happy family...
... spinning our ways to better health and more fun.
Who knows, maybe they'll be like you and join the incredibly awesome PEDALposse?
Click here: https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-pedalposse
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165.5
7.5 hrs
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
10 min Stretch
https://www.strava.com/activities/5824021222
Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries
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