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JUST BECAUSE IT'S FREE MEANS...

SO MUCH INFORMATION, and so much of it free.  Free is a weird price, because we know it's gonna cost time and there's probably...

... an ask down the road.

Don't be fooled.

Sometimes the really expensive stuff is great,
sometimes it's terrible.

Same for free.

Price is a signal.

Should we be swayed?

I recently got an offer to save 30% on a $6000 frame.

6K!!!...

... must be awesome.

Maybe.

But, how do we know?

Really?

The glossy magazine ad?

The pro riding it to a win?

It can be frustrating.

When it comes right down to it, most of us...

... are swayed by our friends' reviews.

Like these -> https://pedalindustries.com/pages/reviews...

... which I'm extremely grateful for.

---

168.3
8.5 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
20 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
69

Do you want to Rip On Raceday?

 


>

DOES YOUR DOG BITE?

THE GREAT INSPECTOR CLOUSEAU encounter with a dog is classic.  The dog is off leash, he asks Does your dog bite? The answer is, No.  He bends to pet the dog...

... only to have the dog viciously latch on to his hand!

I thought you said your dog does not bite?

That is not my dog.

I thought about that since Surfergirl has...

  • demanded
  • pleaded
  • asked

... that I let her track me on my rides.

I feel like a dog on a leash.

The Jason Bourne in me wants none of that.

There's nothing to hide,
when I ride.

But, really?

She does have a point.

I often venture into the wild.

Signs with warnings of mountain lions and snakes about.

Trails are often treacherous to the bike, 
and potentially me.

Humans few and far between.

If, if, if I should need a rescue,
which I never have...

... I'll just need two things.

A cell signal...

... and a friend who cares.

It's kinda romantic when ya think about it,
guess we're doing all right. 

---

168.2
8ish hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
20 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
69

Do you want to Rip On Raceday?


>

HOW MY LITTLE PRACTICE LOOP TOOK ME DOWN

I SET OFF TO POUND MY PRACTICE LOOP.  The profile is jagged, lots of single track, and...

... I'm trying to crack 90 minutes.

Today's failure is why it's so important to practice racing.

Here's the dill.

This course is very hard to stay fueled on...

... almost impossible to drink, forget about eating.

Which meant I was tuckered out, with 4 miles to go.  The last 30ish minutes are pretty dern steep.

With about 20 minute warm up,
winging it on 1/2 bottle and 100 calories was a weak effort.

Just not enough.

Strava called a Massive Relative Effort, 
giving the workout a score of 192.

I'll try it again in a couple of weeks.

This time with 400 calories, 
and 30 ounces of water,
in a Camelbak.

There just isn't time to suck on a bottle,
the bladder hose is easy to grab,
and once in my mouth,
handsfree.

Ya can't figure that out without simulating what ya might be racing...

... in real world conditions.

---

169.1 lbs (dropping some of these will speed things up, too)
8ish hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
67

Do you want to Rip On Raceday?

 


>

SPEED AND BRAKES, NOT ALWAYS OBVIOUS

THERE'S A TECHNICAL, ROCKY SECTION on part of a local trail.  First-timers walk it, new riders use a slow approach, locals...

... let it rip.

They know something.

Speed makes it much easier to glide over the the treachery.

It's counterintuitive.

Disc brakes are the same way.

They rub.

We pry 'em apart and reinsert the wheel.

Soon into the ride they are rubbing again.

Why?

The pads are worn out.

You'd think they would stop touch the disc or barely work when running thin.

That's the way rim brakes work when the pads are worn down.

Not discs.

Counterintuitive.

Which why we alwaysalwaysalways check our brake pads before a race...

... so we hit the tricky stuff with speed.

---

167.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
66

Do you want to Rip On Raceday?


>

DO YOU D.H.T.?

 WE MAY NOT BE PRO.  Our equipment may be lacking, our preparation woeful, our  focus far from singular...

... which makes it all the more impressive.

When we, you and me...

... Do Hard Things.

Just like the pros,
but on a whole other level.

They level up,
get a pay check.

Our objective has nothing to do with money, and...

... everything to do with commitment.

Here's the cool part.

People see it.

Our family, friends, work associates, neighbors, etc.

They get inspired.

Maybe not to ride 100 miles or run a marathon or do an Ironman.

Doesn't matter.

The ability to D.H.T. can be applied to anything...

  • changing diapers in the middle of the night
  • studying instead of clubbing
  • making 100 cold calls/day
  • working 80 hrs a week for a season
  • pushing a car off to the side of the road
  • leading volunteers to repair after a disaster strikes

... once we learn we have it within us.

---

169.1 lbs
8.5 hrs sleep
No strength work today
10 minutes recovery 
180 minutes reading + Journaling 
66

Do you want to Rip On Raceday?

 


>

WE NEED A METRIC FOR THIS

THE FIRST TIME I SAW SHIMANO'S INTEGRATED SHIFTING, dubbed SIS, I knew there was no chance in a sprint without it.  Sure we'd perfected the lost of art of...

... sprinting, letting go of the handlebars with one hand to shift.

But, what was the point?

It was useless.

Shimano changed the game, all because...

... Gripshift had changed the game.

Gripshift morphed into SRAM.

Shimano gave us electric shifting.

SRAM did it better with wireless.

How is that my new Kindle got me thinking of this?

Simple.

Kindle changes the reading game.

Which got me thinking about another game changer, Training Peaks.

It's pretty cool.

All kinds of data.

But, one metric is missing and would...

... be so funny to have.

A measurement for how bad a ride sucks...

  • Freezing rain
  • Frying pan heat
  • Mile long hike-a-bike
  • Gail force headwinds
  • Countless mechanicals

... indicating our badassness for getting it done,
not quitting.

For example, we rolled the dice this morning on a 38% chance of rain.

No big deal, right?

3 hours in, we face another hour of driving headwind and relentless rain...

... the suckometer was needling past halfway.

  • Hands were edging towards inoperable.
  • Too wet and involved to eat carbs
  • Feet sloshing

Not terrible.

But, somewhere on the ride data it woulda been nice to see...

... the badassometer read out.

Just fer fun.

See where the day's suckiness ranked against other such rides over time.

Time to go back the Kindle...

... under the blankies.

Me still cold.

---

167.9 lbs
7.5 hrs sleep
Just pull ups and push ups
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
67 

Do you want to Rip On Raceday?

 


>

LEARNING TO RIP FROM MARCH MADNESS

BALL AND STICK SPORTS are typically concerned with, and built around, offense and defense.  How do we...

... apply that thinking to our endurance addictitions?

Do we have offense?

Defense?

Yep.

Offense

  • Riding, running swimming time
  • Weight lifting
  • Racing and competitive group rides
  • Upgrading equipment - new, shiny stuff
  • Hiring a coach
  • Fine tuning the bike fit
  • Developing our handling skills

Defense

  • Recovery work
  • Sleep
  • Proper nutrition
  • Accountability partner(s)
  • Equipment maintenance
  • Stretching
  • Allies to work with when falling behind

And before you say I've misplaced one of those, we all know...

... the best defense is offense and visa versa.

That's not the point.

The point is to figure out...

... how to incorporate a great offense and defense in our limited time.

---

167.8 lbs
8.25 hrs sleep
Just pull ups and push ups
20 minutes recovery 
180 minutes reading + Journaling 
62

Do you want to Rip On Raceday?


>

TWO OF LIFE'S MYSTERIES

THERE TWO MYSTERIES THAT SCIENCE can't explain.  AI doesn't have the answer, either. But's they are facts just the same.  For example...

... why do beginners get all the flats?

Riddle me that one LycraMan.

You know it's true.

You know if you invite a new, excitedtobethere, rider along, there's gonna be a flat.

Waywaywayway more often than the experienced riders will experience.

Makes no sense.

Just like why more bike shops don't have a comfy couch to wait for that...

.... just a few more minutes...

repair.

Maybe a coffee table showcasing

  • A colorful catalog of their favorite products
  • Samples of their go to sports drinks or things to chomp
  • Gotta have tools to check out

I was thinking of another mystery as I swapped out my worn disc brake pads...

... why more of us don't learn the basics of maintenance. 

---

168.7 lbs (the struggle is real)
8.25 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit + extra pull ups and push ups
20 minutes recovery 
180 minutes reading + Journaling 
63

Do you want to Rip On Raceday?


>

THE PRIDE CYCLE QUEST

WHAT HAVE YOU DONE THAT YOU'RE PROUD OF?  Could be anything, but let's stay on point with athletic endeavors because it's important...

... to harness this concept.

The Pride Cycle Quest.

It's also dangerous,
if we let it get the best of us.

For me, at least, it's all about the quest.

Can I do it?

And, it's a cycle...

  • Pick the outrageous result to chase
  • Train for it.
  • Do it.

... and pick another quest.

I don't really care if anybody else thinks it's cool,
so few understand us anyway.

It's internal.

Am I proud of that result?

It's only dangerous if we are chasing likes and kudos and cheers...

... from the world.

It's not about that.

It's about the quest.

It's personal.

I'm happiest when I have at least one per year.

That's my cycle of pride.

---

167.9 lbs 
7.25 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit + extra pull ups and push ups
10 minutes recovery 
60 minutes reading + Journaling 
62

Do you want to Rip On Raceday?


>

CHASING GHOSTS

PATHS BECOME TRAILS, trails become roads, roads become highways.  It's evolution, and underneath it all are the ghosts...

... who got it started.

We think we're blazing a trail,
when we are really just going along with the crowd.

I was thinking about the day my longgone granpappy came to watch me race a criterium.

It was all new to me.

We wizzed past him every lap.

But, the laps were long...

... and he could barely see at that stage.

Afterwards, he told me how it was years before, when he was young.

I thought it would be in a velodrome and I'd be able to see you entire race.

Clueless me had no idea velodrome racing was the only bicycle racing 100 years ago.

Prior to that, it was racing bicycles long distance, on dusty...

... gravel roads.

In other words, we gone from...

  • gravel
  • to velodrome
  • to road
  • to bmx
  • to mtb
  • to gravel

... so why is gravel "new"?

It's not.

We're all just chasing ghosts who've gone before.

---

168 lbs 
8.25 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit + extra pull ups and push ups
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
62

Do you want to Rip On Raceday?


>

THIS AIN'T NO TIME FOR FOOLING AROUND

WHAT IS THE BASELINE?  The minimum effort to do and consider the week a win?  It's important to have the least acceptable effort in mind...

... and make it happen.

Riding in the rain will make you think things like that.

Like, why the heck am I doing this?

Which is exactly what I was thinking as the skies opened an hour away from home.

Because I made a plan.

A public commitment.

Accountability.

Yesterday, in the sunshine and 72 degrees I committed to do the following this week:

  • 15 pull ups, 50 push ups, 10 squats daily
  • Ride 14 hours this week
  • Drop 3 lbs 

Easy to do when the weather is good, 
and the day lazy.

The public commit was to the RaceDay Rippers,
who also hold me accountable each week when we check in.

I'm two months out from my next quest, the SurfNSummit.

The plan is on my RaceDay Calendar. 

Some say Show me your calendar and I'll know what important to you...

... and yes, Date Night better be on there each week.

We have a few of the Giant RaceDay Calendars left, and you can save 25% since a quarter of the year is nearly past by using promo code:

CAL25OFF

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-black-2024-giant-raceday-calendar

Here is the code:

CAL25OFF

Nod to the great Talking Heads for the inspiration

This is ain't no party, this ain't no disco, this ain't no time for foolin' around

---

168.9 lbs 
9 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit + extra pull ups and push ups
20 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
59

Do you want to Rip On Raceday?


>

HOW TO STAY SLOW...

IT'S SUPER EASY TO STAY SLOW, and just as easy to stay fast.  To stay slow, do what your slow friends do and...

... expect to get fast.

The problem with actually getting fast,
nobody gives you credit.

For the most part, they can't see or appreciate, and will never know...

... how hard we work.

And, we've got to be okay with that.

To commence,
recognition be damned.

To be fast, do what you fast friends do...

... and expect to get fast.

Do.
Expect.

---

168.4 lbs 
7.5 hrs sleep
Push Ups and Pull Ups
10 minutes recovery 
60 minutes reading + Journaling 
58

Rip On Raceday

 


>

WWDGD?! - 25 WEEKS TO GO

I FELT GOOD ENOUGH THIS WEEK TO DREAM of getting my fitness back and setting unrealistic goals.  Is there anything better than that?  Getting to a place to...

... dare to go for it.

After pushing hard for nearly 3 hours, we had a choice.

Take it easy or do the hurtful climb?

500' in a mile doesn't sound like much...

... unless it's the last climb of a fast day.

We were gonna skip it, and then Love Watts yelled...

... WWDGD!

Huh?

What Would David Goggins Do?!

There was no choice at that point, because all of us have streeeeeeeeetch goals this summer.

It was fine.

Slower than I'd like...

... but, compared to last week waywayway better.

And so the journey begins.

The countdown to Gravel Nationals.

Here's where I'm at.

You can see my fitness score at the very bottom.
Down from over 50%, 18 months ago.

Weight, 168ish.
Up 10 lbs, 18 months ago.

Vision is still messed up.
Way off from what I considered one of my few advantages racing off road.

Can I be ready September 8th, 2024?

It's gonna be fun, 
and frustrating.

WWDGD?

Go for it.

Every
single
freakin'
opportunity.

---

168.2 lbs 
8 hrs sleep
Push Ups and Pull Ups
20 minutes recovery 
60 minutes reading + Journaling 
60

Rip On Raceday


>

WHEN THE RACE PLAN GOES TO HECK IN A HANDLEBAR

IT WAS A ROUGH START, things weren't going smoothly at all.  It was causing a lot of stress and internal turmoil.  Energy I'd hoped to reserve for...

... more important sections of the event.

Ayyyy, what to do?

What I always do... 

... but, forget to do.

Think of of the things going right...

  • I felt good
  • I'd started on time
  • My prep was perfect

... other words be grateful for the good.

My energy shifted.

I calmed down.

Focused on getting down to business.

Wound up having a spectacular day...

... at the office.

Tomorrow's race should go a lot better, and if it doesn't...

... I know what to do.

---

168.2 lbs 
8.5 hrs sleep
Push Ups and Pull Ups
20 minutes recovery 
600 minutes reading + Journaling 
56

Rip On Raceday


>

YOU INSURED FOR THAT?

WELL, THE BILLS ARE COMING and I'm thinking about you and me.  For years I've looked at health insurance as lame. Struggled mentally, sometimes economically...

... to pay that everlarger bill.

Why?

I never get sick.

Rarely, and I mean rarely, do I see a doctor.

I'm already doing all they would recommend to get better...

  • eat good
  • skip sugar
  • get plenty of rest
  • and workout regularly

... why would I spend the $ on insurance?

It feels like I'm being duped.

Well, there are these events called...

... accidents.

They happen,
and are almost completely unplanned.

So, yeah, my bills are coming in and I'm happy as being at the to of the podium at my A race...

... 'cause it looks like almost all of it covered.

Sucks to be out 1000s...

... but, way better than being out 100s of thousands.

Just putting this out there 'cause I love you...

... get covered, if ya ain't.

====

Side Note:  has anybody tried insurance for bike like BikeInsure?  Asking for myself, just found out about 'em

---

167.2 lbs 
7.8 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
56

 


>

DO YOU LET POWER OR HR DETERMINE YOUR HARD VS EASY DAYS?

I HADN'T WORN MY HR MONITOR FOR DAYS.  It wasn't working consistently, so I left it parked in the drawer. Until today, I gave it a shot and it actually worked...

... it got me thinking about the levels of easy.

There's so easy...

  • I can barely feel the pedals
  • I can sing a song
  • I can easily talk
  • I am not sure

... and maybe a few more levels.

My goal today was to ride as close to the top of my Zone 2 as possible, without going over...

... the I'm not sure range.

I wasn't sure, because my heart rate was bouncing at the top of the range.  Meanwhile...

... my power was definitely over into a higher range quite often.

This is how I trained for decades, when I just had a HR monitor.

What's more important then...

... HR in Zone 2 or Power in Zone 2?

I'm gonna say, for me at least, HR is more important.  It is more reflective of how all systems are working given the effort and absorbs the little efforts when the terrain or other elements require a few more watts.

Here's a real world application.

When I'm racing something epic, like Leadville, I'm going off heart rate for my pacing, and using the power meter to keep things in check when I have to dig a little deeper to close a gap or clean a technical uphill section.

The reality is, for peak performance on the long efforts...

... it's good to have both.

If it's a short race, under an hour, well, you know...

... put the dadgum gadget in the back pocket and race on feel.

Same for a long day of adventuring, who cares about the data when we're out there.

Enjoy the ride.

We can analyze later.

---

168. lbs 
7.8 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
57

Rip On Raceday


>

SHOULD WE DO A HUNDRED RACES IN A YEAR?

YA WANNA GET GOOD, be a boss, strike fear in your frenemies, be the maker of things that happen...

... instead of wondering what happened?

Race.

A lot more.

100 times/year.

Think I'm crazy?

Think it's immmm po siiiiii ble?

Then don't do it.

Don't even try.

Keep wonderin',
misreading the moves.

Or, commit.

Do:

  • 2 zwifties 
  • 2 local races
  • 2 group rides 
  • 2 of your own personal courses for PR

We all have 52 chances a year,
to race twice a week.

No excuses.
Nothing but upside.

Heck, even a brain-damaged guy like me can do it.  

This week...

  • hammering my xc race loop Tuesday
  • group ride on weekend

... slaying myself today, getting crushed by the fellas Saturday.

Gotta start somewhere.
Gonna do what hurts and what I'm comfortable with.

Twice a week.

Oh... I know you're askin'...

... Why 100 times a year?

Because, every race is different.  

We'll see a lot of different situations.  

We're trying to see 'em all, or have a reallyreallyreally good feel for what is going to happen.

Simple as that.

Experience counts.

Get some.

It's free.

---

168.6 lbs 
8.5 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
20 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
55

Are you ready to Rip On Raceday?


>

NOT GONNA LIE

WHEN I FINALLY CAME TO, I had one thing on my mind.  Not after first being knocked out, not after the morphine and other meds wore off, days after being home...

... I wanted to say one thing.

Not gonna lie.

I was hurting.

Stunned.

How could my crazy good health take such a drastic turn in seconds...

... this wasn't what I had planned for 2024.

8 weeks later, I'm improving.

I'd leave it there, but...

... not gonna lie.

I'm nowhere near where I was just prior, nor 12 months ago, nor 2 years ago.

I'm off.

I can work 4-5 hours,
then my brain needs a break.

I can ride my bike,
but I have no power,
off-road vision is shift.

I can talk to friends,
until I can't.

Something even more weird happened though.

Something few will admit or acknowledge or maybe even notice...

... when I took that blow to the noggin' it felt like my spirit left my body.

There's a disconnectedness.

I know things aren't quite right.

Will they return or is life just going to be different?

Not gonna lie...

... this is new territory.

Now, I'm being as honest and transparent as possible in all I do.

My friend battling cancer taught me that,
the freedom of being honest.

Yes, I hid it from Surfergirl that on one of my first bike rides alone I was going down the road and thought I saw 4 ducks crossing the road in front of me...

... it was just two,
that's troubling.

Not gonna lie.

I kept riding.

Lying to myself it was all good,
hiding the truth if asked.

What is easier, being honest with ourselves and those around us or pulling the lycra over our eyes and theirs?

To remind myself of my new commitment...

... I made a special kit, see above.

That's the kind of thing I was looking forward to in 2024.

New designs, 
new patterns,
new fabrics.

The good newsy stuff.

If you're into the rawness of honesty, maybe you'll like this too.

It's patterned after one of my all-time favorite Porsche's.

Check the full kit here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/ngl-collection

Use this promo code on this kit to save 30%: NGL30

Code expires on 3.15.24.

---

168.6 lbs 
8.5 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
20 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
54

Rip On Raceday

 


>

HE SWITCHED TEAM, AND IT...

TODAY AN AMERICAN WON PARIS-NICE, an 8-Day stage race in France.  A youngun, 25 years old.  He'd never done it before, and wasn't picked as a favorite...

... except he picked himself.

A long time ago.

When riding for a less professional, less scientific team he was spending his own cash on equipment and training to up his game.

Something the top teams covered and pursued relentlessly.

He jumped at the chance to upgrade to the current dominant force in European road racing this season.

Would it matter?

I'd say it is clear.

What's interesting is how many of are trapped like a monkey...

... failing to let go, when we know we should.

Not only did he upgrade his team and training, but placed a huge bet on himself in a daring and startling breakaway with fellow US racer Brandon McNulty.

When you are a pro...

... winning actually is everything.

Way to go Mateo Jorgenson.

---

168.4 lbs 
9 hrs sleep
No Strength Work
10 minutes recovery 
20 minutes reading + Journaling 
53

Rip On Raceday



 


>

HOW TO GET FASTER FOR DUMMIES

APPARENTLY, LOVE WATTS FORGOT our commitment to go easy on the way up the coast.  Which meant we had time to do the biggest climb I've done this year...

... 2 hours and 2000' of climbing for our "warm up".

At the usual time, riders flocked in and we were off.

It felt good to do my first group ride of the year...

  • to see the guys
  • get whooshed along
  • and see some higher power numbers

... until the first overpass.

Where I was off the back.

Caught on at a light.

Off again.

On again.

My breathing and wheezing needed a muffler.

On the next power climb, normally 2ish minutes...

... I needed an extra minute or three.

They were gone.

Yeah, they are nowhere near as fast as I am...

... they're a heckuvalot faster.

Am I good with that?

Yeah, they've always been faster than lit'l ol' me.

Now I just need patience to close the gap to where...

... they are less faster.

So, here's the plan that I've used many a year...

... pick a spot beyond where I got popped today.

Make it just a little further each week.

Corner by corner,
Hill by hill.

Progress > Perfection

--- 

167.6 lbs 
8 hrs sleep
No strength work today
20 minutes recovery 
60 minutes reading + Journaling 
54

 


>

IT WAS ABOUT THE TRUTH, NOT ARMS RACE

I HATE TIMETRIALS.  I mean, I like 'em, but, yeah, I hate 'em.  It's not because I'm not great at 'em, and trust me I'm not.  It's because...

... they hurt so dang bad.

Not only that, it's...

  • lonely
  • painful
  • humbling

... is there anything more truthful than getting passed by your minute man?

No drafting.
No wily cunning.

Nothing matters except...

... who is the strongest,
and who can suffer the most.

Oh, wait, one more thing matters...

... who's got the most money to afford the most advanced gear.

When everything tiny thing adds time and seconds matter...

... it can turn into an arms race.

I'm okay with that to a point.

Butttttttttt, don't ya think participation would rise...

... if we raced Merckx-style?

At least at the amateur level?

On our road bikes vs tt bikes?
With road helmets?
And "normal" road wheels?
And... you get the point right?

As much as I hate/love a tt, I truly appreciated Tucson Bicycle Classic for making their tt be done on road bikes the last to years.

It's just a lot more fair/approachable/inviting...

... and equally miserable for all.

That's the truth.

Side note:  I think I love XC MTB racing because it's basically a mass start time trial.  The terrain naturally and quickly separates us.  

--- 

168.4 lbs 
8.5 hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUps, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
20 minutes recovery 
60 minutes reading + Journaling 
51

 

 


>

WERE YOU AS DORKY AS THIS?

WHEN I WAS JUST GETTING INTO THE SPORT, I was such a dork.  A small percentage of you will disagree, maybe even swear at me, but nothing says...

... stay clear, like a mirror.

I know, I know, some of us are damaged and can't look over our shoulders.

Too stiff,
crap balance.

I was neither of those.

I was a spry young newb.

Excited to ride and race.

And my girlfriend of the time wanted to get me something cool.

I quickly mounted the mirror to the end of my handlebar - see pic above.

I thought it was rad.

Perfect for the high speeds and shoulder banging of crit racing,
which I loved.

Rather than turn my head and telegraph my plans,
I could take a peek at my mirror.

Nobody else thought it was cool...

... and they made an obnoxious and clear point of it.

If my hairy legs,
questionable bike handling,
roadrashed arms and legs weren't a give away...

... the mirror, made it clear.

I was not to be trusted in the bunch.

Here's the dill.

They were right.

Because let's face it, anybody focused on the past...

... doesn't have a shot at a winning future.

--- 

167.8 lbs 
8ish hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUps, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
50


>

I DON'T ALWAYS RIDE IN THE RAIN...

I COULD SEE THE STORM BREWING.  Like a crazy fool, I rolled out anyway even though I was certain to...

... get caught in the rain.

Trust me, I am a fair weather rider.

Gimme 70 degrees,
and a lite breeze.

So why ride?

Two reasons.

One embarrassing.
One legit...

  • Poorly executed work day
  • It rains on raceday
  • Commitment

Yeah, I had all this work scheduled and a timeline to follow....

... and, well, ya know, things didn't go as planned.

That's 1.

Since it does rain on raceday, and I've never let that stop me from lining up...

... it's good to practice from time to time.

That's 2.

And I committed to myself to get my slothful self back in shape.

That's 3, a bonus.

So which one's embarrassing?

  • crap planning
  • useless prep
  • silly commitment

Well, I dunno about you...

... but, I'm cool with

  • keeping my commitments,
  • being prepared for all conditions,
  • even when things don't go as planned.

--- 

167.4 lbs 
7ish hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUps, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
50

 


>

IT FEELS LIKE THE FIRST TIME!

I WOULD CLIMB ANY MOUNTAIN, ride across the stormy sky.  It seemed like I'd waited a lifetime, spent so much time in recovery...

... it felt like the first time!

The MTB.

Like it never did before,
like I'd opened up the door.

Finally!

What is it?

I guess it's just the rawness of nature,
bringing out the rider in me.

Dawgawn I'd missed it.

Carving turns,
wiggling up technical sections,
brushing the thistles,
hanging my lycra off the back in the steeps.

Why today?

Well, to be honest, today was a breakthrough on my vision.

The double-vision I've been dealing with was greatly diminished.

Partly time.
Partly exercises for my eyes.

One of you loyal readers,
one of us,
took the time to share with me a gift for everyone.

Tools for increasing our eyesight,
the kind we need to quickly assess the best way to rip it up off road (on road, too).

You can check the tool out here: https://www.readbetweenthelions.org.  Go to the K-12 program.

It's free.

Thanks Rick!

Makes me wonder what else we can learn from each other?

Speak up y'all!

Let's get betterfasterstronger...

... together.

Have you checked out https://pedalindustries.com/pages/rip-on-raceday-network?

(yeah, this post is a nod to Foreigner)

--- 

168.2 lbs 
9 hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUps, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
20 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
48


>

WHADAYA THINK OF UNDULATING TERRAIN?

WE HAVE SOME WEIRD LINGO.  Have you ever heard any body, ever, use the phrase undulating terrain?  Why would they?  When you're motor-powered...

... who cares about the terrain!

Human-powered,
totally different story.

Every bump in the road and trail counts.

The longer we're out there,
the more it counts.

Sooooooooo...

... whadaya think of undulating terrain?

Do you love it?

Or, do you prefer...

  • flat
  • downhill
  • tailwinds
  • straight up
  • headwinds

... lots choices when we roll out.

Me?

Well.

There are times when I'd give my chamois pad for a flat road with a tailwind.

Days when I feel so amazing I just wanna climb and climb and climb.

But, faced with a choice...

... give me undulating.

Ups.
Downs.
Lots a turns.

That's the ride I choose.

--- 

169.2 lbs 
9 hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUps, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
20 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
48


>

ACTION WINS EVERY TIME

WHY WAS IT SO MIND BLOWING?  Yesterday's Strade Bianchi race was so shocking to me.  Because, to me, all the pundits...

... missed the point.

Sure, the favorite won.

This was the inspiring part...

  • he told everybody where he'd attack in advance of the race
  • made a decisive attack 81 km from the finish
  • never looked back
  • and won

... who wouldn't want to be able to do that?

What blew my mind 
was what the talking heads missed.

This athlete,
is a racer of action.

He had a plan,
and went for it.

Could it have failed?
Most definitely.

Could he have looked foolish?
For sure.

Could he have lost the race outright?
Absolutely.

Did he?
No.

Because he took action.

You miss 100% of shots you don't take.
- Wayne Gretzky

--- 

167.2 lbs 
9 hrs sleep
No strength work today.
10 minutes recovery 
90 minutes reading + Journaling 
48


>

QUESTION: IS THIS A HIGH DEMAND SPORT?

I WAS LISTENING TO SOME GUYS ARGUE about whether or not was their religion was high demand, and it got me thinking is ours?  Are endurance sports...

... high demand?

Yes.
No.

For me, and maybe for you, too...

... its high demand.

Just consider...

  • Training
  • Fueling
  • Resting

... these are the biggies.

They are priceless,
in a sense.

Which is why the are so easy to screw up,
and so misunderstood by lookers on.

We can't put...

  • Training time
  • Good fueling choices
  • Proper sleep and recovery

... on a credit card.

We've got to demand it from ourselves...

... but, is it really demanding when we love the results?

--- 

166.2 lbs 
7 hrs sleep
No strength work today.
20 minutes recovery 
90 minutes reading + Journaling 
48


>

THE UNCORKED ZONE

 

IF YOU'RE INTO HOT RODS, then you know what uncorked means.  In simple terms, all that junk that keeps the exhaust quiet and lawful is chucked...

... giving us that ultra loud and mean sound.

We have that racing and training, too.

And, if we're smart, we only hit it every so often.

You know what I'm talking about, right?

Zone 2 is corked.

  • easy to breathe
  • talk while riding
  • and go forever.

Today was not Zone 2.
I was uncorked, a bit.

Allowing myself for the first time in 2 months to stretch the legs was amazing.

The accompanying wheezing and gasping for air…

… I don’t know if it was hot rod mean, but it was loud.

Hadn’t heard that in too long…

… ain’t gonna hear for 5 or so days.

Time to add some intensity the smart way.

Polarized.

If ya wanna solid refresher on this approach,
take a listen to this: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/get-fast-podcast-triathlon-ironman-cycling-coaching/id1400770015?i=1000596124366

Simply, 80-90% of our training should sound like a Tesla...

... cruising through the neighborhood.

That way we are fresh and ready to get after it like the pic above.

Let the rubber...

...  burn, baby burn.

--- 

166.9 lbs 
8 hrs sleep
No strength work today.
20 minutes recovery 
90 minutes reading + Journaling 
56

 


>

RESULTS DON'T MEAN SHIFT

I DON'T KNOW WHERE YOU ARE ON THE JOURNEY, but I can tell ya this: whether you're just starting out, coming back from injury, at the top of your game, you're gonna fail...

... if results count.

Trust me on this.

I'm rebuilding.

My fitness is shift.
the skills, off.

I've been at the top and the bottom and there is one reason I was able to climb to max fitness and performance...

... I don't care about results.

I mean I do,
but they aren't the motivator.

Optimizing my ability,
having a blast.

Way more important.

Results are nice.

If they are everything... 

... quitting, giving up, and failure is on the horizon.

Don't let that happen.

How?

Relax.

We can't see...

... the great results in the making.

They're coming.

Guaranfreakingteed.

--- 

166.9 lbs 
8 hrs sleep
Pullups, pushups, squats, presses
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
57 


>

ARE WE REALLY DOING THIS?

FOSTER GRANTS ASKED ME Are we really doing this? What kinda question is that...

... Dern straight we're doing it!

Was he hoping we weren't?

Was he doubtful we could do it?

By we, I mainly mean me.

Could you?

I mean, we're gonna have a brain damaged grampa who's been off the bike for months do it...

... can you keep up?

Finish?

What's he referring to?

Oh, just the most life changing ride in Southern California...

  • 100+ miles
  • 15,000+' of vertical gain

... some might consider it hard.

Others a challenge.

Most an adventure of a lifetime.

So, if you wanna support the old sack a lycra,
if outrageous calls to your soul...

... sign up.

It's free.
and fun.

Click here for deets and pics.

--- 

167.4 lbs (safe to say, it's time to get seriouser)
9 hrs sleep
Pullups, pushups, squats, presses
20 minutes recovery 
90 minutes reading + Journaling 
57 

Rip On Raceday

 


>

HOW NOT WHAT

LEARNING TO RIDE A BIKE is filled with excitement, fear, and lots of scrapes and bruises.  We press through because everyone we see on a bike...

... has a great big smile.

We want that,
the teacher wants it for us.

Finally we get it.

And, at least in my case, it stopped there.

Hall-ah-freakin-lu-yah!

What
and when
and who with

... were left up to me.

I'll be forever grateful for learning how...

... and the freedom to do it my way.

--- 

168.2 lbs (safe to say, it's time to get seriouser)
8ish hrs sleep
Pullups, pushups, squats, presses
20 minutes recovery 
90 minutes reading + Journaling 
56 

Rip On Raceday


>

YOU DON'T NEED AN ALARM CLOCK TO WAKE UP, YOU NEED...

ONE OF THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES I HAVE with our local morning group ride is that it starts at 6:30am.  If it was out my front door...

... not that hard.

It's not.

Takes me 50ish minutes to ride to the start,
which means I'm up at 5am.

Also...

... not that hard.

However, getting to bed at 9...

... is not my standard.

I'm more of a 930-10pm guy.

Therefore, if I don't hit the hay early...

... I'm foggy, at best, the rest of day.

Plus, slower on the bike.

Oh, there's a long list of shift that results from lack of sleep.

What's an athlete to do?

Before I tell, 
you are forewarned...

... this won't make you popular.

You might lose touch with friends, 
or lose them altogether.

We all have a choice...

... live our best lives or live a lower version.

This allows to tap into our superpower...

... set you alarm clock for bedtime.

Every.
Single.
Night.

Or suffer the consequences:

  • Inhibited ability to perform
  • Decreased handling skills
  • Quicker exhaustion
  • Decreased reaction time
  • Difficulty learning and decision making
  • Increased risk of injury
  • Increased risk for illness
  • Poor recovery
  • Memory issues
  • Weight gain
  • Poor balance
  • ... Low sex drive

Like I said,
it might be socially unpopular but...

... wouldn't you rather operate at your optimum?

I would.

---

166.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
Pullups, pushups, squats, presses
20 minutes recovery 
90 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

MILEMARKERS FOR DUMMIES

ONE OF THE KEYS TO RIPPING LONG RACES is remembering where you are.  Yeah, you're racing.  Yeah, you're clicking off the miles.  But...

... where the heck are you?

And, there's more than that.

  • Are you on track?
  • When is the next stop?
  • Does your support know when to expect you?

So, I always write down on a piece of tape with a sharpie my goals to be at certain locations at certain times...

... and stick it on my top tube.

This keeps all of us coordinate.

More importantly,
it keeps me focused.

The long races, 6+ hours, can be grueling.
They can wear us down to the point...

... of forgetting why we even signed up in the first place.

Looking down at the humble piece of tape,
seeing my goals...

  • engages my mind
  • re-centers my effort
  • keeps me on the pace

... snaps me back to the present moment.

I don't just use this practice for racing...

... I write down everything I plan to do,
and when I plan to have it done.

---

166.2 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
No strength work
20 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

IS IT HABIT OR RITUAL?

THE SATURDAY MORNING RIDE.  We work all week, and with a little planning and luck we carve out some time to ride.  In the beginning...

... it takes some discipline.

Not the riding.

The commitment.

We are working to establish a habit.
For the most part, a good one.

But, that changes over time.

It becomes a ritual.

  • A set time to leave
  • An expected amount of time to be gone
  • The proper dress code observed
  • A dedicated place to meet
  • A consistent slaying of trails, gravel, pavement
  • A flogging of the sinners who are not as fit as they shouldcould be.

Yep, this is our ritual.
Our practice.
Our faith.

We made the jump.

We are far beyond
discipline and habit.

---

166.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUPs, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
20 minutes recovery 
12-0 minutes reading + Journaling 

 


>

WHAT DOES AI SAY ABOUT TRAINING METHODS USED 100 YEARS AGO?

I PINGED CHAT GTP AND SEVERAL OTHER AI regarding training methods of Belgians 100 years ago.  Why not?  A lot of knowledge is refined, regurgitated or plain ol' forgotten...

... maybe there's something to be rediscovered?

Oddly?
or, maybe not.

The answers across the AI were eerily similar.

I say eerily because who wants to live in a silo?

Anyway, 
here's the bottom line:

It’s important to note that these training methods were not as scientific or structured as they are today. Cyclists often relied on their own experience and intuition to guide their training. However, despite the lack of modern technology and scientific understanding, many Belgian cyclists were able to achieve impressive results using these methods.

Shocking!
I mean, shocking?

When it comes right down to it, is there anything better than...

... relying on our own experience and intuition to guide our training?

I don't think so.

Not when were really into it,
when we really know our bodies.

Me, for instance, I'm rebuilding my fitness.

I realized what a distraction it is to look at the data pouring across my little Wahoo screen.

  • Maybe I should put out more power?
  • Gosh, my heart rate is ____!
  • I've only gone X miles?

So, I fire up the Wahoo,
put it in my jersey pocket.

Time to ride on just experience and intuition...

... same thing I do when racing.

---

166.9 lbs
9ish hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUPs, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
10 minutes recovery 
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

 


>

THE MOST HUMBLING RACE OF MY LFE

MY PAL PETE AND I DECIDED WE WERE REALLY FIT and that we could do anything with just a hint of training.  Racing bikes was kina ho-hum...

... so we signed up for a 10k running race.

We were so arrogant,
we rode our bikes 15 miles to the start.

We lined up in the back, 
because, you know, we were going to
squash these runners.

Gun goes off.

We quickly move forward.

Up to the top 50-100.

Really running.
Hard.

Suddenly, I notice I'm breathing way too loud.

Uh-oh.

My legs hurt,
my hips hurt,
everything hurts.

And, I'm moving backwards quickly.

Chubby guy cruises by.

Oldish lady...

... did she elbow me out of the way?

Kids are skipping and laughing and disappearing up the road.

But, it was the guy in flip flops who said...

... Hang in there, only 3 more miles...

... that really did me in.

Here's the dill.

On the outside, at the start,
looking at these racers,
I would have bet $10,000 on me and Pete.

Looking at competitors is a poor way to pass judgement...

... it's the inside, the heart, that counts.

 ---

166.2 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUPs, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
10 minutes recovery 
90 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

I KNOW YOU'RE NOT A LOSER LIKE THIS CAT

I was going to post this and then I went for a ride and decided it was too mean, whadaya think?... 

THERE ARE THREE MAIN THINGS LOSERS DO.  I say losers, in this case, meaning they are literally losing out.  If they persist, then, yeah...

... the other kind.

It always surprises me when people make these very basic mistakes.

Even if they are new, 
I find it,
perplexing.

I think you do, too.

Because, for us,
it's just second nature.

Probably because we have learned the hard way.

Not only that, we try and pass this basic knowledge along to every new rider we can.

Still, they...

  • Forget gear when going to a ride or race
  • Completely foul up their nutrition and bonk
  • Neglect the bike prep only to have mechanical difficulty

... and, we shake our heads.

They are losing out on a more excellent ride.

We deal with it,
they are our friends.

However, if it persists one of two things is gonna happen...

  • We don't invite them any more
  • We leave them behind

... because, well, you know they are....

How's that for setting up a shameless plug on why we do what we do?

  • The RaceDay Bag™ has a built in checklist to make sure we bring everything
  • It comes with a RaceDay Bike Check List, too, so bike is properly prepped
  • And an insane Never Forget Anything guarantee.

... that way my friends are always invited,
and never left behind.

 ---

166.9 lbs
9ish hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUPs, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
20 minutes recovery 
90 minutes reading + Journaling 

 


>

I USED TO LOVE RAINY DAYS

THERE WAS A TIME WHEN RAINY DAYS were awesome.  Mostly, around here, it meant nobody was riding.  Not me, not anybody else.  Which was perfect...

... if I couldn't ride anyway.

You see the selfishness right?

If I can't ride,
I'm stoked you can't either.

It means nobody is getting in the secret miles.

But, that's hardly true these days.

It's not the trainers,
those have been around forever.

It's the virtual racing,
that is a game changer.

In fact, I know plenty of people who do a fair amount of their riding virtually.

  • It's available 24-7
  • Not hampered by weather
  • All the social connections of a group ride (with right equipment).

Can you blame them?

I can't.

But, I still blame the weather for my own lack of getting it done.

 ---

166.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUPs, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

CODDLED VS THROTTLED?

YEAH, THE RECOVER IS GOING PRETTY GOOD.  Spoke to my neuroscientist pal, who confirmed my suspicions.  It's good news for me...

... is it good news for you?

Well, yeah, if you taking the Rip On RaceDay 30-Day Challenge.

If you're not, then sit up and pay attention.

Here's what he said.

You're probably doing so well because...

  • you're exercising every day
  • not eating bread
  • staying away from grains
  • not drinking diet drinks or artificial sweeteners
  • eating plenty of veggies and protein
  • getting outside in the sunshine
  • lifting weights
  • getting plenty of sleep, 9-10 or more hours

... right?

I sheepishly said Yes.

Which was mostly true.

But, I gotta cut out all grains and all bread, even my beloved chips and salsa and special sour dough bread.  I've backslid on the diet drinks, those gotta go.  Other than that, I'm mostly on track.

Main thing I need to add is a lot more fish oil.  
Not a problem, I love sardines.

in other words, it's time to practice ALL that I preach.

So, how're you doing?  Yes, you my loyal reader.  How. Are. You. Doing?

Could you tighten things up a bit?

Or, do you need a serious crack in the head like I got to up your game?

Which brings me back to the title of this post, Coddled vs. Throttled?

Here's the dill, for me...

... I prefer to be throttled.

Put me on a ridiculously difficult course, in with the heavy hitters, tell me the honesttogosh truth...

... make me suffer!

Then, and only then, I might merit some coddling.

Maybe it's time for a serious challenge...

... and little coddling 30 days later?

Rip On RaceDay 30-Day Challenge

 ---

165.9 lbs
9ish hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUPs, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
20 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

I WONDER IF GIRLS DO THIS?

FOR THE MOST PART, we are a healthy lot.  We skip cigars, pass up the bars.  Well, then, where's a cyclist to go to share our struggles, solve our problems...

... shoot the shift?

Dudes,
we ride together...

... and we share, solve and shoot.

That's where we get it done.

What about the lady riders?

Where are they bonding and supporting?

There are so few of them, 
mostly they ride with guys...

... don't think I've ever see an all, or mostly, female group ride.

Is that why so few ladies ride, compared to men?

Are they missing what the guys are getting?

Is that the main reason guys ride?

 ---

164.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
No Strength Work
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

Are You Ready For A Hero's Journey?

I DID A POLE OF THE RACEDAY RIPPERS.  I asked them If they had to pick just one bike what would it be?  They had 4 options to pick from.  What would you answer be...

... you need the options first.

Here they are:

  • Road
  • MTB
  • Gravel
  • One of Each (acceptable though hard to explain to family and friends)

It came down to a tie between two options, evenly split.

33% for each.

Gravel and One of Each.

Why?

Well, what would your choice be?

Back to Why?

I think it comes down the basic human nature...

... we want to go on a journey.

Not just any journey.

One where we are heroic,
in our own minds at least.

That, I think, is the true appeal of "gravel" (such a dumb name)...

... the appeal of a bike that can handle mixed surfaces.

On that type of bike we have incredible freedom combined with the high likelihood of finding ourselves...

... in place far, far away from our predictable existence.

With luck we'll...

  • Shed some blood without breaking bones.
  • Find out we can do much more than we thought.
  • Gain new confidence, skill, and special experience.

... acquire our own superpowers.

Is it any wonder these bikes and events with mixed surfaces are exploding?

 ---

164.8 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
Pull Ups Pushups Squats Presses
10 minutes recovery 
90 minutes reading + Journaling 

 


>

WHAT TO ASK A PROSPECTIVE COACH

THINKING OF GETTING A COACH?  Good.  You can get better faster by learning from an expert.  Be it a book, a video, a podcast.  Only a human can...

... answer this question.

The answer will instantly tell you if this relationship is gonna work out.

After small talk, after the coach's spiel, when the conversation stalls...

... ask this:

If we were meeting 3 years from now, looking back, what has to happen for you to be happy with my progress?

Trust me, conversation is gonna stay stalled.

Don't say a thing.

Wait for the answer.

Listen to what is said.

Ask yourself...

... Is this the kind of person I want to have a relationship with?

That's it.

I've used the question many times over the years, usually when hiring somebody.  There are lots of variations.

It works.

Learned it from the great Dan Sullivan.

---

162.6 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
Pull Ups Pushups Squats Presses
10 minutes recovery 
150 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

How To Build Volume 101

IMAGINE YOU'RE STARTING FROM ZERO.  How do you build volume? Are there rules of thumb?  When do you introduce intensity?  Does it matter?...

... can you wing it?

Good questions.

Short answers:

  • Build volume as fast as you can, which isn't going to be very fast if you are starting from zero.
  • There are no rules of thumb, it's ruled by legs and lungs.  Do what you can.
  • Introduce intensity as soon as you want, it ain't going to be much.
  • Yes, it matters.

Long answer.

There are a number of good books on the subject.  Anything by Joe Friel will give you a good plan.  

You don't need a power meter, mainly because you're will not be putting out much power early on.  

But, you do need a heart rate monitor.

In the beginning of the first rides, the heart rate monitor will be exciting.  Then after a few miles, it will dim.  Reality will set in as that heart rate gets lower and lower because you have no stamina built up.  After a few weeks or months, the HR monitor will serve as a governor...

... holding you back.

This is good.

Because if you're tired, you can't do intensity properly.

Introduce the intensity one day per week.  

Don't look at the HR monitor too much, instead get after it.  Could be a group ride you want to desperately hang on to, a Zwift session with same obsession, or simply chasing that mystical PR you want to breatk.

Check the HR data when the ride is over.

Important answer:

  • Pick an event far in the future - you need time.
  • Set an insane goal.
  • Get registered.

Nothing exceptional will come with your training without a date with destiny...

... that's paid for!

---

164.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
Pull Ups Pushups Squats Presses
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

Do I Really Love It This Much?

SO, IT'S GONNA WIND UP BEING 8 WEEKS OFF THE BIKE since the noggin took a hit.  If I do the ol' traditional math, that's 8 X 3 (weeks to get back the fitness for every 1 week off the bike)...

... 24 weeks, errrr 6 months?

That's hella long time.

The big question is...

... do I love it that much?

And by it, I do not mean the obvious...

... riding my bike.

I mean being in shape and the...

... feeling of being fast.

If I'm being honest, and I always am with you...

... I've forgotten what that feels like.

Surfgirl said Let's go on a ride today...

... and I jumped at the chance to ride with her support.

How'd it go?

Well, even though I was on my MTB...

... I still easily dropped her.

Nothing new there.

What was new was how hard I had to work to catch her,
huffing and puffing and legs burning...

... at a pace I recall doing for hours, endlessly.

This time it was for about 2 minutes.

Was I surprised?
Disappointed?

Let's just say I laughed out loud when I saw what Training Peaks was showing for my fitness.

37.

Yep, nearly 100 points lower than my all time max fitness just 18 months ago.

Lesson:  fitness disappears, fast.

Lesson:  I'm gonna bring it back, patiently (not my superpower, but a lesson to learn).

Who's in?

---

164.8lbs
9ish hrs sleep
Pull Ups Pushups Squats Presses
10 minutes recovery 
60 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

TOP REASONS NOT TO LIFT WEIGHTS

THERE IS A LOT OF BANTER about weight training.  We should do it in the off-season, shy away from in the race season.  Frankly...

... I couldn't disagree more.

Weight training is for those who want:

  • stronger bones
  • to build muscle
  • put out more power
  • improved core strength
  • better grip strength

Who want's that?

Year round?

Oh,
well,
me.

You?

Top 3 exercises we should all be doing?

Takes just a few minutes to do a set.

Very little equipment needed: pull up bar, some dumbbells...

... or skip the minor investment.

  • have weak bones
  • look like a T-Rex
  • less power
  • weaker core
  • pathetic grip

It's your body...

... and I'm just a dude, not a doctor!

 ---

164.8lbs
8ish hrs sleep
Pull Ups Pushups Squats Presses
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

CONFIDENCE, WHO'S RESPONSIBILITY IS IT ANYWAY?

IN GETTING CAUGHT UP WITH THE LATEST BREAKING CYCLNG NEWS, I saw an article title and it's bugged me ever since.  Maybe I'm heartless, from a different generation...

... or maybe this guy is just weak.

The title of the article is, They Lost Faith In Me.

Honestly, I can't believe I even bothered to read it.

But, after a week of it percolating as a top article...

... it got me like a slow moving train wreck.

As expected, featured racer blamed his lack of success on the team losing faith in him.

Bro, it's not the team's job to have faith in you.
They are paying you.
Faith is there.

That's my first reaction.

Bro, them's fighting words.
Now go prove 'em wrong.
Create the failth.

Earn it.

That's my second reaction.

What happened to good ol'...

... if it's to be, it's up to me!?

Or... 

... fake it, 'till ya make it!?

In the end, I couldn't decide if I should feel sorry for a grown man having such a pathetic excuse...

... or be ticked off that such lameness made the front page.

Bottom line,
like it or not...

... it's our responsibility to be confident,
and to infect all those around us with such assuredness.

Life,
racing,
everything...

... is more fun, and, oh, ah, successful!

 ---

162.7 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
No Strength Work
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

WHAT HAPPENS IN SIN CITY...

THERE ARE SINS, and then there are things we personally consider sins.  Either way, 'Vegas promise that what happens in 'Vegas stays in 'Vegas...

... is a big fat lie.

Not a big deal.

We are only letting ourselves,
and those we committed to...

... down.

For example, the second Friday in January is known as Quitter's Day because by then...

... most people have thrown in the towel on their resolutions.

Like I said, 
not a big deal...

... unless you want to
improve,
make changes,
stay true to what matters.

If that's on the line,
we can't afford to sin,
and if we do we've got to...

... repent right away, 
and keep moving forward.

So,
how are those resolutions doing?

I had two:

  • Get to bed around 9,
    start day before 6.
  • Get back to race weight,
    under 163.

The only reason I'm mostly on track is due to putting myself in the hospital on Jan 8th...

  • appetite disappeared
  • needed a lot more sleep

... otherwise, I'd be struggling.

Which is better than quitting.
A lot better.

Struggling,
good.
Repenting,
good.
Never quitting,
Best.

Keep up the good fight.

 ---

162.7 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
No Strength Work
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 

 


>

THE RACERS CREED

WHETHER WE KNOW IT OR NOT, we stand for a few things.  And, it matters.  Because this is...

... how we roll.

The Racer's Creed

  • Access to bicycles - and anything that makes you stronger and better - should be unlimited.
  • Always yield to the In Real Life Imperative.
  • All racing should be free.
  • Mistrust tradition, government recommendations - promote bro-science.
  • Racers should be judged by their racing, not by bogus criteria like KOMs, USAC Category, age, color or gender.
  • You can be free and forever young on a bicycle.
  • Bicycles change your life for the better.

Agree or Disagree?
Lemmeknow.

 ---

165.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
Pull ups, push ups, presses, squats
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

IT AIN'T EVERY DAY YOU CAN LOOK FORWARD TO THIS

DO YOU REMEMBER WHEN YOU FIRST STARTED RIDING?  For most of us, it was a magical time.  Each ride a little further, a little faster.  Each effort...

... a little easier.

No wonder we got hooked.

Still, 
some wonder off.

Is it because the day comes when going further, faster, with less effort is no longer predictable?

Shoot, forget predictable...

... sometimes those days have months between them.

Even years.

I can tell you this, as I impatiently wait for clearance to get back on my bike and start riding again...

... knowing I'll get better every ride keeps me hanging on.

Can you relate?

 ---

164.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
Pull ups, push ups, presses, squats
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 

 


>

IT'S SO MIXED UP

ROAD BIKES use road tires.  Most of us find a favorite, and that's what we run day, night, rain, shine.  For MTB, it's basically the same formula.  Find a tire we like, run it regardless.  For gravel...

... ugh.

First off, gravel ain't just gravel.

It's gravel and asphalt and single track and rocky terrain.

So, a gravel tire needs to be fast on asphalt, tacky on gravel turns, nimble on techy stuff and rugged on the rockies.

What's the ol' saying?

There's fast, cheap and quality...

... you can only pick two.

But, we're racing.

We want fast, light and rugged...

... and we want all three.

Not gonna happen.

Me?

I'll take fast and light, banking on my handling skills to get me safely through the rugged stuff.

Is that enough?

Probably not.

If it really matters, 
gotta pre-run the course,
then pick the very best option...

... not easy,
but, that's what make it fun. 

 ---

164.9 lbs
9ish hrs sleep
Pull ups, push ups & squats
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 


>
HEY TODD:  I'M NEW, WHAT DO I DO?

HEY TODD: I'M NEW, WHAT DO I DO?

May 25, 2018 TODD BROWN

THERE'S A NEW PADWAN IN TOWN.  He's addicted.  He's riding a ton.  Therefore, I shall call him Miles.  Like all enthusiastic riders he shall live or die by his miles.

His biggest problem is he's actually an athlete. He just concluded his college football career.

Let the record show,
any college athlete with limited training,
will quickly blow past the experienced rider
who was merely a high school athlete
or no athlete at all.

It will be almost impossible for Miles to cut back on the miles, especially the going-hard miles.  He can already see the direct correlation between miles and speed.  Intuitively, more hard miles will always equal more speed.  Plus, he's used to suffering.  He's used to running until he pukes, lifting weights to complete failure, etc.  

Today he came to ask the The Old Diesel how it's done.

How do I train?

Well, it's like this. 
First, if it ever stops being fun take a break. 
Second, you must ride easy to be able to really ride hard.  70% of your time should be like right now... conversational, easy, Zone 2.
Third, if it ever stops being fun take a break.

That's it?

That's it for now Miles.  Screw it up and you'll be chasing an old diesel all summer, or quit all together.  Got it?

Got it.

It's not the piles of miles,
It's what you do with them Miles.

_____
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171.6
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FORGIVE ME BODY

FORGIVE ME BODY

May 24, 2018 TODD BROWN

RIDING AT THE END OF THE DAY MAKES ME LOCO.  I go from a disciplined monk to Mr. Crazypants.
Salad and nuts for dinner?
No!
Pizza?
Yes!
Frozen fruit for desert?
No!
Haagen Daz?
Yes!
To bed before 10?
No!
Up all night?
Yes!
Is it worth it?
No!
Do I care?
... forgive me body,
for I have sinned...
again.

_____

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172.6
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LEGENDS

LEGENDS

May 23, 2018 TODD BROWN

I DIDN'T REALLY KNOW WHAT TO THINK WHEN I SAW THE NEW CATEGORY AT OVER THE HUMP:  LEGENDS.  Matt created it for the guys who are too fast for their own good, and too old to go the distance.  I think it's a nice way to say Has Beens.

The problem is that inside each one of these guys is a million miles of tiger.  Roaring, angry tiger.  Even if they're a little a long in the tooth, every now and then the old diesels and V-8s fire on all cylinders.

You can't predict it, and they can't either.

It's hard to see inside,
to see the heart,
desire,
will...

... don't mean it ain't there. 

_____

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172.6
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JUDGEMENT DAY

JUDGEMENT DAY

May 22, 2018 TODD BROWN

THE A GROUP SLOWLY DISAPPEARED IN THE DISTANCE. 
In the B group, there was a silent roar. 

Nobody talking out loud.
Just seething on the inside.

We'd all started together.
Thought we had a chance.

One attack at a time,
The A's beat us down.

We had been weighed,
We had been measured.

And our inner voice is screaming
I should have _________.

Then I'd be an A,
On judgement day.

_____

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173.2
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I DID IT!

I DID IT!

May 21, 2018 TODD BROWN

THERE'S A RETAINING WALL NEXT TO ONE OF THE SIDEWALKS ON MY SPIN ROUTE.  It has a perfect ramp to ride up.  Each week I make it about 10' then I have to pop off of it.  Tonight was different.  I rode the entire length.   

Previously, I'd only look about 2' ahead and spend all my energy trying to stay away from the edges.  This is a terrible strategy, and it proves that you get what you focus on.  I was focusing on the edges.  I had no vision.

What a loser!
I know better.

Tonight, I focused on the end of the wall.  I didn't looked down, my vision was 50' ahead.  As a result, I rode faster and never really had to adjust the handle bars.

It's kind of weird when you think about it.  I could ride that distance with my hands off the bars if I was going fast enough.  The faster you go, the more stable the ride.  But, there is something about the height of the wall I guess. 

I know perfectly well from mountain bike racing that you only focus on the trail and never on the rocks, ledges, branches and other hazards.

The body follows the head,
so look ahead,
far ahead.

_____

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173.2

 

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THINKING INSIDE THE BOX

THINKING INSIDE THE BOX

May 19, 2018 TODD BROWN

THE BOX DOESN'T CLOSE ANY MORE.  The last time this happened I chucked the box and everything in it.  Kinda regret that.  Not as much as I regret not writing notes on the back of the race numbers, like little journal entries. 

That would be pretty cool.
Right?
Just a sentence or two....
especially on the plates that last a season.

Heck, I'd probably keep all of them.  Writing about something seems to drive it a little deeper into the memory.  And if I do take a moment to dig them out, the reliving should be a little richer.

Takes no time at all.
Like this.

What's in your box?
On your number?

_____
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172.4
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NOW WHAT IS IT YOU DO?... AND WHY?

NOW WHAT IS IT YOU DO?... AND WHY?

May 18, 2018 TODD BROWN

HOLLYWOOD MIKE MIRANDA PULLED ME ASIDE AT THE FIRST OVERTHEHUMP THIS SEASON.  Can ya help me out?  I have no art, and a tight deadline for the Aids/LifeCycle event... we need 50 hoodies.

What do you have?

He whips out a picture of the Macho Man, Randy Savage.

Plus, this sweet sketch...

Let's do it!

That's the What of what we do. 

The Why is this... we love it!  We love helping people bring their ideas to life.  Usually these projects are for something really cool, too:  a charity or crazy event or in this case a charity that is a crazy event.

What could be crazier than 5500 people riding together from San Francisco to LA?  Here's Mike cheering on the the riders.

What's your crazy?
Why?

_____
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171.2
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I'VE SEEN FIRE AND I'VE SEEN RAIN

I'VE SEEN FIRE AND I'VE SEEN RAIN

May 17, 2018 TODD BROWN

I'VE RIDDEN THROUGH ALL KINDS OF CRAZY WEATHER:  hail and lightning at Leadville, wildfire  chasing me in San Clemente, driving snow at 24 Hours of Moab...

I've ridden through 5+ decades of life and my bike has gone from fun to transportation to sport to social life and friendship.

I've ridden through marriage and kids and marriage of kids.

I've ridden through good times and bad times.

I've ridden through a lot,
and I plan to ride through a lot more.

_____
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170.4

 

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PARDON MY SCHADENFREUDE

PARDON MY SCHADENFREUDE

May 16, 2018 TODD BROWN

IT WASN'T THEIR YOUTH, THEIR HIPSTER GARB OR EVEN THE BLUE HAIR.  It wasn't even their electric unicycles tearing down the single track.  It was their smug essence, knowing how cool they were.

I couldn't help myself, blurting Is it wrong of me to hope they crash?

That's Schadenfreude Todd.

What?

Schadenfreude... when you find pleasure in another's pain.

Who knew you could expand your vocabulary on a bike ride?  Of course, I'd seen that word before, but I had  just speed on never really understanding it. But here, my-other-brother-Brandon-from-another-mother was filling me in.  Making it clear.

You know what else was clear?... I've got a lotta Schadenfreude when it comes to bike racing.  I really enjoy watching other racers suffer.  And, if it's because of my efforts... even better.

Wishing ill on the hipsters, that's a little cruel, but enjoying other racers suffering that's beautiful.  How else are you going to get better if you don't suffer... even a little?

Pardon my Schadenfreude,
I'll pardon yours.

PS... this does look pretty fun.  

_____
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171.4
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THE ECHO CHAMBER

THE ECHO CHAMBER

May 15, 2018 TODD BROWN

THIS WILL BE FUN, head on out to the race.  It's such a nice drive.  Pull into the venue.  The friendly grassy slope.  Trees and canopies providing lots of shade.  Throw on my kit.  Roll over and verify my chip is working.  Get the leg marked.

Hey there, how are you? Small talk.  

It's such a lovely afternoon.

And we get to race.

I feel my heart... what the heck!... we don't start for another 45 minutes.

I gotta pee.

I spin around some of the course.

Pee again.

Lots of peeps lining up.

My heart beats stronger... damnit, I'm barely moving!

Last minute pee.

I find my group.

Howdy fellas! More small talk, in staccato.  Gibberish really.

We roll forward.

Our wave takes the line.

Flipping 120 BPM!.. and we haven't pedaled once.

The horn blares.

Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch!Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch!Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch!Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch!Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch!Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch!Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch!Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch!Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch!Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch!Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch!Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch!Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch!Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch!Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch!Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch!Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch!

I cross the finish line.
I'm done.
A list of a million things I can do to improve pops up.
Next race,
can't wait!
_____
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172.2

 

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NOW FOR SOME OF MY WIERDNESS

NOW FOR SOME OF MY WIERDNESS

May 14, 2018 TODD BROWN

I'M AN EXPERIMENTER.  I don't mind tasting and trying new food and drinks.  Sometimes I love it.  Take this kooky drink Eileen recommended.  It's a great snack or small dinner.  Super filling.  Probably healthy.

The proper order to load the Magic Bullet is 2 small cubes of ice, then half a cucumber, then half an avocado, then jam all the Power Greens I can in there, the final ingredient is Almond Milk.

You might gag.
I didn't.
You might love it.
I do.

_____
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172.2
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DON'T SWEAT IT

DON'T SWEAT IT

May 12, 2018 TODD BROWN

DON'T SWEAT IT, WE'LL JUST CRUISE was Eric's promise to me.  A promise I made him commit to before I ventured out to his famous Black Friday course.  His other promise was that if we used part of or all of this course it would be the toughest HUNKR ever.  One those promises would be broken... and as my head dipped forward, my body and bike searching for traction, the Garmin registered a 26% incline and my top tube was covered in sweat!

You liar!
You no good son of a biscuit...
... damn I love this stuff.

A ride like today is so lovable because:  the weather was perfect, overcast mid-50s; good people who are good riders; a route of stunning views absent cars; and my virginity... it was all new to me.  That's the perfect combination.  Oh, oh, oh... and tasty Mexican food after.

What defines good people... mainly attitude I think.  Not just a "good" attitude, but a similar attitude - one that says Let's go ride some challenging terrain and enjoy each other's company.  Good riders, in this case, means people of similar ability with good handling skills and bikes in good working order.

There was a life size Easter Island statue, a miniature polo rider statue, countless avocado groves, beautiful estates, gorgeous horses, all of it accessed by tiny country roads.  For the most part, they were smooth.  I rolled with 100 lbs of tire pressure which seemed just perfect.

But, there were those terrible pitches, the worst being about 900' in 9/10's of a mile.  While Eric was grabbing PRs and KOMs I reverted to back a more innocent time.  My magazine route, delivering Sports Illustrated and National Geographic through the hills of Fullerton where I mastered the "paper boy".  No shame here, if ya got a skill use it.  If you don't know the paperboy... LMK.

Check out the ride: https://www.strava.com/activities/1567906221

Will I ever trust Bierman again?
Of course.
I knew what I was getting into
and packed my RaceDay Bag accordingly.
Is it HUNKR worthy?
Hell yeah.
#it'sjustasocialride
_____
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WHAT'S THAT BOSS?

WHAT'S THAT BOSS?

May 11, 2018 TODD BROWN

YOU DON'T NEED A BOSS.
Whatever your motivation for bike riding,
you don't need anyone to tell you to do it.
You have a mission,
and you're going to complete it,
all on your own.
The mission is your boss,
What's your mission?
|
\/
Adam Grant is a professor and author I enjoy learning from.  He recently launched a podcast where he discusses his ideas.  The 4th episode is called A World Without Bosses.  Part of the research for this episode involved the largest tomato processing plant - I think in the world - where there are no bosses.  The company is called Morningstar.
Digging into the details of how a company with thousands of employees operates without a boss was captivating.  In a nutshell, you have a mission... say pack tomatoes.  Everybody needs you to be good at that so they can get on with their mission.  If you aren't hacking it, someone might call you out... invite you to leave the company, or get more training, etc.  The employees govern themselves on the simple principle of the mission is the boss.
Thinking of that in work terms can be foreign and clunky, but when I think of it in terms of something I'm passionate about it's quite easy to see the brilliance of this management system... fortunately, I'm on a mission here too.
Now, go ride your bike!
_____

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ZONE ZOMBIE

ZONE ZOMBIE

May 10, 2018 TODD BROWN

LONG TIME READERS OF THIS BLOG <- I've promised myself to never start a post with "long time readers..." but, if I didn't start at least one post this way then you'd never know my true feelings... I want to barf now --> anyway, I've brought my heart rate monitor (HRM) back to life.

Turns out I've been riding slow as hell for the last 6 months. 

How do I know this?  Because this morning I went out for a Zone 2 spin and the following happened:  I went 18 mph vs  the 14 mph I've been doing lately, all in about Zone 2.5.  2.5 is nothing, and I felt great afterwards... energized and ready to take on the day.  

Why was I going so much slower before?  Because I was riding on perceived exertion (PE).  PE is old school... not super old school... super old school was go ride at 18 mph for an hour today then 2 hours at 23 mph, all mph based... PE was cutting edge at the time and was thought to be a big step forward allowing us to ride easy if we were tired.  Fortunately, PE led us to the trusty heart rate monitor.

What possessed me to stop using my HRM?  I felt like I'd turned into a Zone Zombie... spending more time looking at my screen than enjoying the ride.  It also seemed like a good thing to do at the time, which was at the end of a long season.  Oh, and the battery died.

Speaking of cool... one of the cool things you can do with Strava Premium is check your Fitness and Freshness.  This is a useful tool to see how fresh and ready you are for an event, how over trained you might be, etc.  Unfortunately, you need a month or so of HRM data... none of which I have accumulated.

If I was really cool... I'd be using a power meter.
But I'm not.

_____

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170.2
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LITHIUM AND MORPHINE

LITHIUM AND MORPHINE

May 09, 2018 TODD BROWN

I STARTED THE WORK DAY LISTENING TO MORPHINE.  Not cranked, just in the background.  I was first introduced to this group at Canyon Bicycles, they had it cranked.  Canyon Bicycles was a leader in a lot of ways:  niche store focused strictly on high-end mountain bikes, a great mechanic, their own killer frameset, and a website to take orders (this was '95).  They didn't make it, I'm not really sure why.  But, Morphine did.

I think I liked the music because it was so mellow and the opposite of the new high energy/high adrenaline mountain bike scene.  To this day, nothing gets my heart rate pegged like a mountain bike race... which brings me to lithium.

Six months ago my heart rate monitor battery pooped out, and since I've been so pooped out lately I decided it's time to get a little more structure back in my training.  So, I picked up a new battery.  With my HRM working again, I'll be able to make sure I'm going easy enough on the easy days, and see just how hard I'm going on the hard days.

I also picked up 5 pints of Vanilla Swiss Almond - they were on sale!

_____

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169.6
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TWO A DAY TUESDAY, IT'S TEMPTING

TWO A DAY TUESDAY, IT'S TEMPTING

May 08, 2018 TODD BROWN

THIS TIME OF YEAR, IN THESE PARTS, TUESDAYS CAN KILL YOU.  There are a variety of group rides every morning and evening.  The quality of the morning rides can be every bit as good as a top race.  Which means we're fit year round.  When the time changes a few more rides come online plus two race series:  OverTheHump and Eldo (the Eldorado Park Crit series).

How does it kill you?  By tempting you into thinking you can do it all.  Like it did me today.

At 4:50AM the Cabazon earthquake shook me outta my slumber ten minutes earlier than I'd like.

The plan was to drive to Bob Frosty's to get my canopy then do TMWC easy.  Which worked, except for the easy part... I couldn't resist and hit the A loop hard.  Then my cleat broke on the way to Live Oak allowing me to get a good 1.5 leg workout in.

Which left me thinking I might as well grab my MTB just in case I decided to do 1 lap of OverTheHump tonight. 

Of course, I missed the last minute route edit from 3 laps to 2.  This shouldn't have mattered as my intention was to do just 1 lap... but, well, there I was huffinandpuffin with my buddies in the top 5... so, of course I did the second lap.  On the way up the big hill I decided to let them go so I could save some for the 3rd lap... the 3rd lap no one else in my category was doing.

And that's how you get killed.
You dig so far into your reserves you're not thinking clear,
not riding fast,
you're just out there pedaling.
And I was...
I rode that last lap by myself,
Enjoying the cool evening air and setting sun,
Not caring nobody else was out on the course.
We all had a good laugh when I finally rolled in,
But, the jokes on them...
I'll be back.
Rested.
Ready.
There's no way I'll be foolish enough
to be seduced by another beautiful Tuesday morning
... is there?
_____

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OVER THE HUMP #99

OVER THE HUMP #99

May 07, 2018 TODD BROWN

CAN YOU IMAGINE THE EFFORT IT TAKES TO PUT ON A BIKE RACE?  Think of a wedding with 300 brides and 300 grooms and they all want to be recognized as the most-bestest couple ever.  Plus, half of these couples have brought their friends and family to witness their commitment and dedication.  Because that's what racers and lovers are:  committed and dedicated.  

Now imagine you're doing it for the 99th time.

Tomorrow, May 8th, will be the 99th time Matt Wenger and his crew have put an Over The Hump MTB race.  It's a race they've built into the largest mid-week mountain bike race in the country... maybe the world.

How'd they do it?  By having fun.

Don't let the word Race scare ya, it's first and foremost a party. Most folks are in the I'm-a-beginner-and-just-wanna-have-fun category.  Sure there's racing and timing, but there's also a race just for kids... which will give you hope for the future.

Should you do it?  Yes, definitely... first-timer or grizzlednadchizzled pro.

While your at it... give this guy a high-five.  He's earned it.

 _____

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171.4

 

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SOME TRIATHLONS ARE BETTER THAN OTHERS

SOME TRIATHLONS ARE BETTER THAN OTHERS

May 05, 2018 TODD BROWN

I'M DOING AN AWESOME TRIATHLON TODAY.  Unlike my new friend Miles who's doing an actual full Ironman next weekend, my triathlon involves my son Shane's birthday. My triathlon is easy, Miles' is ridiculous: swim 2.4mi, ride 112mi, run a marathon.

I started with The SHOP (Saturday Hour of Power/Pail/Pleasure/Pickyourpoison) Ride.  This is a challenging first leg.  It's a ride of blistering pace and unending short climbs.  It didn't help that I slept terribly, dreaming of hippopotamuses attacking me and Surfgirl in the ocean.

Next, we hiked around Riley Regional park with Shane and Abbey and reminisced all the fun to be had there for teenagers... the highlight being when they snuck in at night with shovels and buried a time capsule.  As second legs go... wasn't too bad: an hour in the midday sun at 80+ degrees is a great cool down from the ride and prep for our final leg.

The final leg will be watching the Avenger's.  This could actually be the most difficult.  Matinee time + first 2 legs + massive amount of popcorn could put The Old Diesel to sleep.

Better pass the Diet Coke down this way.

 _____

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168.8 (yes, I've ditched that Intermittent Fasting Diet... before I read this, too.)

 

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WHAT I AM GLAD NOBODY TOLD ME ABOUT MARRIAGE

WHAT I AM GLAD NOBODY TOLD ME ABOUT MARRIAGE

May 04, 2018 TODD BROWN

Nobody told me it would be hard.  I should have guessed that as my own parent’s marriage failed.

Nobody told me kids would be difficult.  I should have guessed that as my mom had to make more than one visit to the principal’s office; the weekends worried where I was; etc.

Nobody told me that during the teenage years there would be so much pressure on our marriage.  It was just brutal, and in the midst of it all we had no idea our family was under attack.  All we knew was it took a lot more huffing and puffing of the kindling to keep the love log lit.  I remember telling myself, “buckle down bro, you have 12 more years until the last one is gone and then you can leave too”.

Nobody told me that if I went to work on myself, on becoming a better husband and father it would get better.  But I did do that via counseling and lots of study.  It was largely thankless and unrecognized by anyone – even me.

Nobody told me it would get better, because I suffered in silence.  So, I rode my bike and pedaled the pain away.

Nobody told me it wasn’t about me, in fact all I heard was “you gotta be happy man”.  But, in my heart I knew it wasn’t about me, it was about us.  How could we as a family survive and thrive?  So, I rode my bike more and thought about it and pleaded for divine help.

Nobody promised me the honeymoon would return, that there would be time to focus on us.  I don’t think I would have believed them, and I wasn’t even hoping for that.  But here I am, happy as ever… marriage intact, kids have turned into wonderful and productive adults.  I wouldn’t say we’ve made it, but I sure like our trajectory.

Nobody promised me anything but bliss, the kind you get the first time you ditch your training wheels… and who doesn’t want that?

 _____

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168.8
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WHAT'S YOUR CODE?

WHAT'S YOUR CODE?

May 03, 2018 TODD BROWN

DO YOU HAVE A CYCLING CODE?  You know, what do you live by?  What are you must haves/dos?  Well, you probably do... whether or not you give it much thought.  I thought I'd take a few moments to flesh mine out.

1.  Compete.  I like to have at least 1 big, key event on the horizon.  It's got to be gnarly enough to scare me - can I do it?.  Or, prestigious enough to demand my best.  Ideally, it's both.  I like this because it keeps me motivated to seek optimal health for me and my machine.

2.  Have fun.  While I like to slay and be slain on a group ride as much as the next guy, it's the other rides that keep things fresh.  The rides where work on my wheelie skills - after all these years I'm still terrible - or jump curbs or see how far I can skid my back tire.  These rides have no agenda other than feeling the wind on my face.

3.  Make friends.  I have met so many amazing people on the bike.  Many have become my best friends.  While we like to ride hard, most of the time we are just cruising along talking about life and how things are going.  Along the way we learn about each others' family, career, interests... we get to know another wonderful human being.

4.  Maintenance.  I know enough to do the basics on my bike.  A lot of peace can be found in the garage with a wrench and a rag.  I wouldn't say I'm a neat freak, but my road bike is generally pretty tidy.  The mountain bike I prefer to leave dusty, except for the drive train - that's always got to be pristine.

5.  Loyal.  I'm loyal to my local bike shop, not in a sheepish way.  Some of my best memories as a kid are walking into Fullerton Bikes.  There's nothing like the smell of a bike shop.  A mixture of new bikes and greasy hands.  It can't be, but when I reflect on those days every single bike was red and faster than mine.  I hope they all make it in this new retail world.

6.  Road vs Dirt.  I spend about half my time on the road and half on the dirt.  The mix depends on what my "big event" is going to be - dirt event more dirt, road event more road.  I can't say I like one more than the other.  My best results have been racing downhill on an MTB and crits and circuits on the road.  But, I really do like it all.

7.  Ride with rockets.  On the hard effort days I try and hang with the fastest guys around.  I learn a lot more by getting beat than by being number one.  Even on the easy days, riding with the best guys means there's time to talk and learn.

8.  Bike fit.  Bike fit is way more important than most people realize.  I've never understood why people will spend $5000+ on a bike, then ride 500 hours in a year and never optimize the position for comfort and power.  It's the best investment you can make after proper training.  Trust me, that bike isn't going to win a race unless you are at your best.

9.  Rest.  I choose Sunday as my off day, it's partly for religious reasons and partly for perspective.  I have an addictive personality and cycling can become an addiction.  I know when it's getting out of hand by how much I want to blow off the day I've chosen to dedicate to my family and spiritual life... I guess I feel it helps my keep my feet on the ground.

10.  Food.  Whenever possible, I eat whole foods.  I stay away from processed food, and baked goods.  But, I'll never say no to ice cream.

There's probably more, minor codes out there for me.  But, these are the top 10.

What is your code?

 _____

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169.2 (off the intermittent fasting diet)

 

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CHASING TAIL

CHASING TAIL

May 02, 2018 Accounting Bookkeeping

AFTER SEEMINGLY CHASING MY TAIL ALL DAY, I didn't feel like riding my bike.  But, a funny thing happens once you get going.

I left late, just after 6pm.

The sun finally dropped low enough to send rays across the sky and light up the mustard weed.  It made me happy.

That time of day I guess.

But it was also tail chasing time.  Bunny tails.  Squirrel tails.  Mouse tails.  Roadrunner tails... even a lone coyote tail crossed my trail.

All that chasing led to some fast times, too... can't say enough about my new drive train, and upgraded bearings.

Cheers to the tails we chase.

 _____

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COVER THAT

COVER THAT

May 01, 2018 TODD BROWN

 THERE'S A LOT OF COVERING GOING THESE DAYS ON The TMWC.
Mainly on Antonio.

Antonio used to be pretty social, kind of a warm up before things got serious.  But, the young kids like hitting it hard right from the start.  Sometimes I try and jump across and get in their breakaway.  I'm less and less successful at this.  The rest of the time, I'm waiting for another young stallion to make the effort and drag the rest of across the gap before it's too late.

Which brings me to a different kind of cover: covering a song.

As I was recovering from this morning's social ride, Stevie Wonder's Essentials playlist was rocking in the background.  I like these essentials playlists from Apple Music because not only do the have the favorites but often they'll have a gem.  The gem today was Pastime Paradise.

So, I'm listening to it and thinking... damn that sounds familiar. 
What song is that? 
And it hits me.
It's Coolio's
Gangsta's Paradise

And in the words of Hanna Montana, That's pretty cool!

On the Wiki they say Coolio sampled Stevie's song from 20 years prior, but I'm going to say he covered it.  Though the lyrics are changed, the meaning is the same.

There you go gangstas...
to cover the moves, don't waste ya time
to cover the songs, ya gotsta rhyme.

 Which do you prefer?

 

 _____

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RANKINGS, STANDINGS AND LIDS

RANKINGS, STANDINGS AND LIDS

Apr 30, 2018 TODD BROWN

Repost from HUNKR.com

Hey there HUNKR Nation!

I have 3 rad announcements:

First – KASK helmets has developed a special Protone helmet for us in our colors.  This is my favorite helmet, it’s comfortable and super-fast.  It weighs a scant 215g and uses 3D Dry padding to provide delicious comfort.

Retail is $300… our price $199.99 (stock is limited).  Click to order/learn more

Second – The Rankings

We’ve worked long and hard on our rankings systems:  Overall Rankings and Series Standings.  Coolest part?  Well, seeing how you rank!  Second coolest part, it’s live.  Cross the finish line, and you’ll see how you rank.

The Rankings take into consideration the two most recent seasons.  The Series Standings are based on your results in a given calendar year.  While the Rankings are a good indicator of how you stack up with your fellow riders, the Series Standings will determine the season’s champions.

Click here to dive in and see how you rank and stand.

Third – June 9th event has been moved to September 29th

I know many of you had June 9th on the calendar already.  It really bums me out that we have to change the date, but nailing down a killer course the first year takes quite a bit of moving heaven and earth.  GMR will happen, but not this year.  We looking at 2 venues, one in Ramona and the other either in Murrieta or Southeastern San Diego.  Wherever we end up, I promise you HUNKR epicality.

Phew!… that’s three important updates for y’all.  Please forward along to your pals.  I can’t wait to see you in September.

Ride On!,

Todd Brown

Click for helmet  Click for Rankings and Standings

 _____

Save the dates:  HUNKR 9/29, 11/10 – TMWC 7/10
172.6
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RIDE 4 RWANDA = RIDE OF THE YEAR

RIDE 4 RWANDA = RIDE OF THE YEAR

Apr 28, 2018 TODD BROWN

IT'S BEEN ABOUT TWO YEARS SINCE I RACED MY MOUNTAIN BIKE SERIOUSLY.  Today, I wonder why I ever left.  It was just perfect, and it wasn't a "race" - but it was.  As a sponsor of the Ride 4 Rwanda, my plan was to show up early and raise the canopy then putt around and make it a social ride.  But, when I rolled up to the start all that changed.

Surrounded by lions, I was ready to go hunting.
The police escort to the trail head just made the urge to kill it that much stronger.

Some get antsy in a tight pack of mountain bikers racing hard for the double track, and clean trail lines.  I don't.  I find top level XC racers to be far better bike handlers with far greater spacial awareness than roadies and crit specialists. Relatively relaxed, I slipped up to the top 10.

Staying up front and out of the dust is worth the effort.

Did I peak a week late? I asked.  Last weekend's Sea Otter Classic was my target race of the year.  I was somewhat disappointed.  This was a "ride".  I felt great and was right with some of the fastest guys around..  Rested.  Smooth.  Easy.

You know what else was smooth and easy?... that new drive train.  The XX Eagle 10-50 cassette and 32 up front, the new chain and the new GripShifter was buttah.  That upgrade along with the dropper-post I added a few weeks made for some very fast riding.

How fast?
This fast.
 
For me, that's amazing.  So yeah, probably peaked a week late.  Can't really say I'm sad about that because I'm so happy to be back in love with the dirt.
Looking back, I should have expected a good day:  I had put in back to back days of racing last weekend; taken it easy all week on the bike; Surfergirl is outta town and it's a been a few days of all about me, and... AND... I had zero expectations.  That's a pretty solid formula for a good day on the bike.
What am I going to do with my renewed love of dirt?  I think I'll flip-flop between road and dirt on Saturdays. 
I had forgotten how great it is to be so close to nature,
to climb so high and see so far,
to be dirty,
with friends.
Set your sights on next year's Ride 4 Rwanda...
it's a magical event,
raising hundreds of thousands of dollars so kids can ride their bikes to school and work...
maybe the magic will visit you like it did me.

 _____

Save the dates:  HUNKR 9/29, 11/10 – TMWC 7/10
172.4
(Update on the kooky intermittent fasting diet.  If anything, I've gained weight.  I'm not sure it matters.  One thing I've noticed is I can get up and easily go till Noon without food.  On the bike, that means I can go the first hour without any kind of nutrition.  It made this morning very simple:  get up, get to event, start riding.  My second bottle bounced out as I ripped the first single track.  I didn't even think of stopping.  My energy was great.  Shred on! Made it no problem through the first 90 minutes on 1/2 a bottle, topped it off and made it another hour, filled it one more time and felt strong the entire 3 hours.)
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THE DREAM GYM

THE DREAM GYM

Apr 27, 2018 TODD BROWN

I WAS DAY DREAMING ON THE WAY TO MY ACCOUNTANT'S PLACE TODAY.  It was all about the ultimate cycling training facility. Here's what I remember just before he woke me up:

Instructed weight lifting

Yoga

Bike Fitting

Nutritionist

Sports Psyhologist

Spin/Zwift machines

Awesome mechanic to do and teach wrenching

Regular group rides

Showers and lockers

What else should we have?... doesn't hurt to dream.

 _____

Save the dates:  HUNKR 9/29, 11/10 – TMWC 7/10
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I COVET

I COVET

Apr 26, 2018 Accounting Bookkeeping

WE'RE COMMANDED NOT TO COVET, but boy do I ever!

How awesome would it be to be out of shape?
To be doughy?
To be unable to ride 5 miles on a bike?
To cringe at the idea of riding up a small hill?
To be clueless as to sports nutrition?
To have no idea about the connection between sleep and performance?
For my lover to worry about me flattening her if I rolled over?
For my kids to let me rest for fear playing would kill me?
Wouldn't that be dawgawn amazing?
I'm not bragging, just stating the facts.  I'm the opposite of the above.  I've fought hard to be this way.  Been teased by my family at get togethers.  It's been worth it, and I've loved the battle.  But, now it's really, really hard to improve.  To move the needle.  I'll keep trying, but man I long for the days of every week getting better.
I'd love to know every week would show improvement,
lighter,
faster,
stronger,
sexier,
to be like Michael Angelo and be chipping away,
revealing my David...
I covet you who know you can do better,
So do it!
Join me,
it's a lot of fun to be a coveting sinner like me.
Save the dates:  HUNKR 9/29, 11/10 – TMWC 7/10
171.2
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IT'S ROUTINE

IT'S ROUTINE

Apr 25, 2018 TODD BROWN

FOR MOST OF MY ADULT LIFE I'VE TRIED TO CARVE OUT THE PERFECT WEEK.  While I'm not Japanese and I'm not a gardener, I read about the care and beauty of the gardens either in Shogun or Zen And The Art Of Archery, and I was inspired about trimming and hedging and fertilizing my weeks to make them perfect.

My weeks have become a routine I perform, beginning on Monday and ending on Sunday.  There are smaller routines within each day and even sections of the day.  All of these routines I enjoy and savor.  Rarely do I add something new without removing something old, stale.

With a brain like mine, the routines are necessary. 

I'm not sure what my condition is exactly, but my mind is very active and easily distracted.  I see everything and nothing.  I think this is why I'm able to go faster than most and return home in one piece - because my mind sees everything and the faster the better.  It's also why I have trouble plodding along doing the same thing day after day and why I enjoy working on lots of custom projects for my friends/customers.

Here are a few routines I use to save me from myself:

Riding Routine:

Monday:  lunch spin
Tuesday: TMWC
Wednesday: MTB
Thursday: surf
Friday: lunch spin
Saturday: big road or MTB

Morning Routine for M,W, Th, F, S, S

530 wake up
600 put water on to boil for tea
601 write in my One Sentence A Day journal
605 pour tea
606 read
630 meditate


Pre-Race Routine for the night before:

Clean my bike
Pack my RaceDay bag put it next to my bike
Make my drinks, put in fridge with my car keys
Take Surfer Girl to dinner for steak fajitas

A Work Routine:

Monday:  plan week, review production
Wednesday:  review estimates
Friday: review a/r and a/p

Routines should be beautiful and well thought out, they should give you peace and joy and create consistent positive energy.  My dad (damn I miss him!) got mad at me once when i was hauling off to surf without taking care of some chores.  I was all loaded up, ready to go and he got me out of the car by saying he'd help me and adding... 

plan your work,
and work your plan,
you'll have time to do it all.

What are your routines?

_____
Save the dates:  HUNKR 9/29, 11/10 – TMWC 7/10
171.6
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DESTROYED, BUT NOT DEAD.

DESTROYED, BUT NOT DEAD.

Apr 24, 2018 TODD BROWN

I FELT JUST LIKE MY BREAKFAST MATES:  DESTROYED, BUT NOT DEAD.

They came solo or in pairs.  Gray. Worn. Moving slow, with canes in tow.

There was something special going on here.  Each one was cheerful, smiling bright.  Happy to be alive, to be out moving about... to be at Denny's.

My day, like their lives had aged me.

I rolled out of bed early, but showed up late.  Dropped off the back on the way to the "start".  Things began nice enough, then turned to hell on the A Loop.  The kids kept on hammering, gathered up the Bs and left us. 

Our group of "A-" riders went from 7 to 6 to 5 to 4 to 3 to 2.  I was 3.  After a 50mph downhill I latched on to a decent group of Bs with two of my former A- riders.  Soon, I was ejected on the corkscrew.

I limped home with my tail firmly between my seat stays.  Live to fight another day, as my dad liked to say.

Maybe we weren't destroyed at all,
Just weathered,
Seizing another day,
Happy for one more
trip to Denny's.

(I destroyed the Ultimate Omelette)

_____
Save the dates:  HUNKR 9/29, 11/10 – TMWC 7/10
173.6

 

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COLLABORATION

COLLABORATION

Apr 23, 2018 TODD BROWN

CHASE GROUPS SHOULD ALWAYS SUCCED, but they fail often.
Different agendas.
Different talents.
Different views.

Work groups should always succeed, but they fail often... too.
Different agendas.
Different talents.
Different views.

We should have caught the leaders on Friday, and we definitely shouldn't have let one guy get away on Saturday. 
But we didn't, then we did.  And we got beat. 
Most of didn't know each other. 

One team had 5 guys working together with one leader and a coordinated effort.
Their guy won.

_____

Save the dates:  HUNKR 9/29, 11/10 – TMWC 7/10
172.4
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THIS IS WHY

THIS IS WHY

Apr 21, 2018 TODD BROWN

THE TICKING SOUND OF THE OFFICIAL'S MOTORBIKE NEXT TO ME WAS SEASONED WITH RACE RADIO... and I ate it up.
The road was ours,
closed to cars. 
Race numbers on backs faced me,
nobody watched me,
I clung on.
Lord, I love this feeling...
Getting all I can out of this old body
It's a high,
You can't buy,
even if you try.
But, if you tried
if you put in the time,
you just might find
another you,
something new.
_____

11th today

_____

Save the dates:  HUNKR 9/29, 11/10 – TMWC 7/10
no scale on the trip
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LEARNING TO RACE CLEAN

LEARNING TO RACE CLEAN

Apr 20, 2018 TODD BROWN

MY BROTHER-IN-LAW MIKE IS A PHYSICIAN.  He taught me to race clean.  And, man-oh-man does it feel great!

I don't know why I ever raced or rode dirty.  But, I did for many years.

Never again.

Now, I'm a kinda lean racing machine.  Which means this morning I got up early, pedaled over to the campground showers and gave my engine a good scrub down.  Next, got back to the RV and grabbed the Lemon Pledge and shined up my chassis.

That's what Mike taught me, and he's a doctor.

You don't race dirty do you?

_____

Got 7th today.

_____

Save the dates:  HUNKR 9/29, 11/10 – TMWC 7/10
no scale on the trip
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THE SILLY END OF SEA OTTER

THE SILLY END OF SEA OTTER

Apr 19, 2018 TODD BROWN

I WOULDN'T SAY IT'S MY ANNUAL MANCATION, but 4 out 25 years is something... and two years in a row could be a trend.

The Sea Otter Cycling Classic is giant.  It's displaced Interbike for new product releases.  There is every kind of bike event imaginable.  So, everybody makes the migration.  That's the business end.

But, I like the silly end.

Reliving Matt's back to back Cat 5 road race wins.

The constant kidding and ripping on each other.

Here's a sample of how serious we take Sea Otter... Andy's virgin run on the ROLL... it never ends.

 _____

Save the dates:  HUNKR 9/29, 11/10 – TMWC 7/10
no scale on the trip
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TIMES THEY AREN'T A CHANGIN'

TIMES THEY AREN'T A CHANGIN'

Apr 18, 2018 TODD BROWN

MIKE PUTS TOGETHER A SPREAD OF EVERYBODY'S DATA AT THE END OF THE YEAR.  I'm not sure how I got on the list or even why he does it, but it's pretty cool to see the year to year changes. 

Or not not much change in my case.
The last 4 years are remarkably consistent.  

I give myself about about 10 hours a week.  The miles and average speed picked up a lot in the last year as I've ridden more on the road.  I've dropped from 6 days a week to 5 because I"m a little burned out and I need the recovery time.  It looks like I've cut back on my climbing a bit, think that's been the shift to road more.

Is it time to change things up?

 Distance
Miles 
Time
hours
Elev Gain
feet
Rides Avg
miles/ride
Avg
time/ride
(in mins)
Avg
climb/ride
(in feet)
Avg
climb/mile
(in feet)

Avg
speed over all rides (mph)

 

 

2017
          8,950      547     594,101      265                  34               124             2,242                   66                    16

 

 

2016
          8,090          538     588,189      259 31.2 124.6             2,271                   73 15.0

 

 

2015

          8,205      520     657,411      252 32.6 123.8             2,609                   80 15.8

 

 

2014
          7,972           571 610,476 295 27.0 2069.4 76.6

 

 

_____
Save the dates:  HUNKR 9/29, 11/10 – TMWC 7/10
169.8
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BIKES ARE BIKES

BIKES ARE BIKES

Apr 17, 2018 TODD BROWN

SOME BIKES ARE FASTER THAN OTHERS.
Some athletes are faster than others.
No bike is fast without a rider.
Train harder.
Sleep more.
Eat better.
Go
Ride
Your Bike!
Sometimes that's all it takes...
_____
Lately, numerous people have asked me how Charon Smith can be climbing so well.  I'm no expert, but...  Look at him - 3rd place at San Luis Rey RR.  He's got the full pterodactyl going - giant legs tiny upper body.  Do you see any gut there?  I don't.
I'm inspired.
Are you?
_____
Your bike's prowess
is a reflection of you.
_____
Save the dates:  HUNKR 9/29, 11/10 – TMWC 7/10
170.6
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FOOLISH PRIDE

FOOLISH PRIDE

Apr 16, 2018 TODD BROWN

I DON'T GET TOO MANY FLATS.  You could say it's a source of pride.  But, I've had two in the last month, which makes 4 in the last year.  Not bad.  One of the consequences of flatting so infrequently is my flat changing skills aren't so hot.

In the old days of mountain biking, flats were so common that simply being quick at fixin' would bump you up a couple of spots by then end of a race.

Road racing is too fast, and drafting too key for a quick change to save your race... except, last summer it saved my LoToJa... I guess if the race is long enough a quick change can still help ya.

Anyway, I flatted tonight.  I took out my phone to see if Surfer Girl would rescue me, but no answer.  The phone is protected by a Rokform case with a crazy magnet and I stuck it to the electrical box in case she called while I fumbled.

But, I didn't fumble.
I was pro again.
Didn't even need a lever.

Just ripped that out tube out, checked for thorns and glass, shoved the new tube in and rolled the tire back on with my bare hands.  

I was so excited and proud of myself I quickly jammed all my mess back in my pockets and happy-pedaled home.

Of course, as soon as I tried to upload I figured it out.  No need to worry: a black case on a dark green box, at sunset... no one would notice it.

That magnet, it's a source of pride too. 

Foolish.

_____
Save the dates:  HUNKR 9/29, 11/10 – TMWC 7/10
174.2 <-- this is not the trend I am looking for
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HIGHLANDED

HIGHLANDED

Apr 14, 2018 TODD BROWN

THE SUV GAVE US PLENTY OF ROOM AS IT PASSED ON AN EMPTY COUNTRY ROAD.  The weeds growing beneath the oak tree  canopy smelled nothing like the weed inside the Toyota Highlander.  Weaving through the turns, irony lingered.

That's country life for ya...
A few homes here and there.
Fewer cars.
A hungry coyote loping along the yellow line.
... and Pete and I, scouting an epic HUNKR course.

 Mike saw my Strava uploadWhat did you think? 

I think it's an amazing area.  Beautiful.  A combination of Silverado and Mojeska Canyons.  Gentle, twisty rollers with an occasional heckuva pitch to get over.  Much of the course is shielded from the sun by old, friendly trees.  The road surface is glassy, minus a couple of miles that are "privately maintained".  There are a total of 3 stop signs:  two right hand turns; one four-way stop.

The school I thought could work for the Start/Finish is perfect, except it lacks parking.  The ranch across the street has a field with potential.

Is it going to be an easy course?
Is it going to be fast?
Is it going to hurt?
All I can confirm is you're going to get high and smile all the way down.

The School

 The playground

The ranch

 

_____
Save the dates:  HUNKR 9/29, 11/10 – TMWC 7/10
172.4 (intermittent fasting?... more like intermittent fatting so far)
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TOMORROW SHOULD BE FUN

TOMORROW SHOULD BE FUN

Apr 13, 2018 TODD BROWN

TOMORROW PETE AND I ARE GOING TO RIDE A POTENTIAL HUNKR ROUTE.  

First I tried to map it with Google. 

Then, Bierman told me to use Garmin.  Great idea.  With Garmin, it's easier to map and  you get the elevation too.

That's where my tech adventure ended and  Pete stepped in to download the route onto his Garmin - I'll learn that another day.  

Here they are:

Lap 1:  https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/17959442

Laps 2&3: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/17959347

Andy lives down there and says it should be epic.

Stay tuned.

_____
Save the dates:  HUNKR 9/29, 11/10 – TMWC 7/10
171.4
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THIS LITTLE LADY

THIS LITTLE LADY

Apr 12, 2018 TODD BROWN

SHE RIDES A 1200CC DUCATI SUPER BIKE, HER COACHING TREE SPAWNED ALDON BAKER, her athletes have won countless State and National titles, plus she has a Masters degree in kinesiology.

She's tiny.

She's full of life.

And everybody, completely underestimates her.

Because she's a girl?  

I dunno.

What I do know is that if you ever get a bike fit from her it will change your life, forever.  Especially if you've had a bike fit from someone else.  It will be so radically different you won't know how to appreciate it... until you go for you next ride.

You're faster.

You're comfortable.

You feel better than you've ever felt.

She's been my fitter, coach and friend for over 20 years.  She coached Trevor.  She helped Shelby recover from a dance injury.  And Saturday she's going to help Shane rebuild his knees so he can run again.

Eileen is family, and I truly love her and her wonderful husband Bill and their superstar race dog Mackenzie.

I guess I'm just grateful she's part of our lives.  I can't imagine bike riding without her... and we've never even ridden together. 

These are the friendships that make our cycling family beautiful.

_____
Save the dates:  HUNKR 9/29, 11/10 – TMWC 7/10
172.6
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INTERMITTENT FASTING

INTERMITTENT FASTING

Apr 11, 2018 TODD BROWN

ALL MY FORMERLY LEAN FRIENDS ARE NOW SUPER-EL-SKINNEO.  They're fasting intermittently.  

It's not intervals on your bike.  But, it is intervals.

The idea is go to 16-18 hours without food.  So, eat dinner at 7pm and don't eat again until 11am.  It's not that hard.  I did it today.  Ate up until 9pm last night and didn't eat until 1pm today.  Surprisingly, my energy was awesome to the point of my padawan making note of it.

I wasn't hungry at all.  But, I did forget to take my vitamins this morning.

At 12pm, I hopped out for a quick 30 minute bike ride.  I'd already started my day with a single rotation through the weightlifting routine.  

At 1pm, I ate.  We went to The Habit where I probably blew it.  Santa Barbara burger and onion rings and a DC.  But, they say you can eat a ton during the 8 hour window. 

We shall see.

(There are ton of videos to watch - who know's if any of it's true.)

 

_____
Save the dates:  HUNKR 9/29, 11/10 – TMWC 7/10
172
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THIS IS US

THIS IS US

Apr 10, 2018 TODD BROWN

THIS IS US, AT THE START.
Chipper and eager,
Fist bumping and
G'mornin's.
Tongues out,
Heads hanging,
Gassed and trashed.
This is us, at the end.

 

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LUNCH RIDIN'

LUNCH RIDIN'

Apr 09, 2018 TODD BROWN

WHY DIDN'T I DO IT SOONER?  It's just the best thing, EVER!
I been startin' my day early for years.  In the dark.
Readin'.
Exercisin'
Showerin"
Breakfastin'
Gettin' ta work.
But, I have discovered a new routine.
Wakin'
Readin'
Workin'
...
Ridin'
Quick Lunchin'
...
Workin' summore.
Ya have to be brutally guarded with your time to do it.  But, turns out there are others that like riding in the sunshine and can keep to a schedule...
... guys like Chris who popped down to join me today.
Who knew?...
Am I last to the party?
Really, are you lunch ridin' too?
_____
Save the dates:  HUNKR 6/9, 11/10 – TMWC 7/10
172.6
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IT RUNS IN OUR FAMILY

IT RUNS IN OUR FAMILY

Apr 07, 2018 Accounting Bookkeeping

A FEW TAKES, THE FIRST IS AGAINST SURFER GIRL'S ADVICE.  

On race day, it's pretty obvious we're all part of the same family - The Gottapu's.

Toddy Gottapu.
Andy Gottapu.
John Gottapu.

To be sure, we have sisters too... but that wouldn't be polite.

_____

Speaking of sisters.  How about Lori doing her first USAC race?... not the best part... How about her winning?... still not the best, at least for me... check this:  2 miles from the finish she runs over a tack and can hear the sealant coming out her front tire.  Naturally, she goes all out before the tire is flat and drops everybody while she's at it!

_____

This dude kept edging over on me.  There was nowhere for me to go so I gently touched his hip to let me know I was there.  He kept coming over, I was less gentle.  He came over harder, I'm bigger so back he goes.  Then he drops the F bombs and threats.  I laughed.

That's racing.

___

Props to Celo Pacific for putting on San Luis Rey RR.  What a classy group of racers they are!  If you missed it, do it next year.

____

Saw some HUNKR t's.  Lots guys wanting to know the next course... and quite a few votes to bring back the Boulevard course as a HUNKR race.  You like?

_____
Save the dates:  HUNKR 6/9, 11/10 – TMWC 7/10
171 <- that could 'splain the dropping
Lori's medal and tack
trophy wife checking in with Old Diesel:

 

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JUST RANTING

JUST RANTING

Apr 06, 2018 TODD BROWN

HAD A CUSTOMER DROP BY TODAY AND START RANTING ON TERRIBLE SERVICE AT A BIKE SHOP.  I know the owner, and I know he tries hard to please everybody

His top complaint was, If you're one of the cool guys you get great service. I guess I'm not.

On a very related note, I've just finished Lady Gaga's Monster Loyalty. She's a marketing genius and the book is very insightful.  The main takeaway is that she focuses on the 1% that are rabid fans - make them feel like rockstars and insiders and they'll bring in the other 99%.

What's that have to do with my customer - who happens to be great?
Well, there's no point in focusing on your 1%,
if you're not going to take care of the rest of their posse.

_____
Save the dates:  HUNKR 6/9, 11/10 – TMWC 7/10
170.4
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san luis rey road race

SAN LUIS REY RR

Apr 05, 2018 TODD BROWN

BY THE WAY, I'M RACING SATURDAY.  It's a great course, just not a great finish for me anymore.

Hill?  was all she said.

I'd like to be disgusted at her quick conclusion.  But, she's right.

Pre-her, SLRRR was a great course for me.  The climb was still there, but it went higher then did a harrowing plummet back to sea level.  My Avenir computer reported 61mph. 

That's fast.  Great for me.  The skinny dudes may have left me behind but after that romping descent was followed by about 5 miles of -1% downhill.  Which means the Young Diesel was back on, rested and ready to bring home the hardware.

It's also dangerous, and someone eventually had a very bad day.

So they re-routed while I was away doing my dad/mtb years.

The new course is still awesome, still beautiful.  The crazy drop is gone and rather than a loop we race an out and back, starting and finishing on the lower slopes of the climb.  That -1% false flat is now proceeded by the +1% to get to the turnaround.  The laps are 14 miles long.

I'm going not to win, but to have a good day.
The last 2 years I've cramped on that final climb.
I just wanna hang on and finish strong.
And, that's okay.
_____
Save the dates:  HUNKR 6/9, 11/10 – TMWC 7/10
171.6 (not where I wanted to be)
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san luis rey road race

SAN LUIS REY RR

Apr 05, 2018 TODD BROWN

BY THE WAY, I'M RACING SATURDAY.  It's a great course, just not a great finish for me anymore.

Hill?  was all she said.

I'd like to be disgusted at her quick conclusion.  But, she's right.

Pre-her, SLRRR was a great course for me.  The climb was still there, but it went higher then did a harrowing plummet back to sea level.  My Avenir computer reported 61mph. 

That's fast.  Great for me.  The skinny dudes may have left me behind but after that romping descent was about 5 miles of -1% downhill.  Which means the Young Diesel was back on, rested and ready to bring home the hardware.

It's also dangerous, and someone eventually had a very bad day.

So they re-routed while I was away doing my dad/mtb years.

The new course is still awesome, still beautiful.  The crazy drop is gone and rather than a loop we race an out and back, starting and finishing on the lower slopes of the climb.  That -1% false flat is now proceeded by the +1% to get to the turnaround.  The laps are 14 miles long.

I'm going not to win, but to have a good day.
The last 2 years I've cramped on that final climb.
I just wanna hang on and finish strong.
And, that's okay.
_____
Save the dates:  HUNKR 6/9, 11/10 – TMWC 7/10
171.6 (not where I wanted to be)
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HANGING ON

HANGING ON

Apr 04, 2018 TODD BROWN

I'M NOT SURE WHERE I LEARNED TO HANG ON.  But, I'm glad I did.
It wasn't from tennis, which I played through high school.
Nor from riding my Stingray all over town.
BB guns had nothing to do with it.

Somewhere as a kid I learned to hang on.
Past the initial pain.
Beyond the wretched aches.
Through the final infernal burns. 

What's so great about hanging on?
On the others side is goodness.
A stronger you, a stronger me.
Not a crowd, only the best.

Then things get better.
Easier.
Hanging on is a known.
Our personal fortune teller.

Climbing a big mountain and getting gapped...
hang on.
Totally out of synch with a loved one...
hang on.
Pushing the company to a new level...
hang on, hang on, hang on
Soon you'll crest the top and enjoy a new, wonderful ride...
... if you'll just hang on.

 

(Actually, as my fingers wave and click across the keys I know exactly where I learned it.  Surfing big waves.  To catch a big wave you have to paddle for all your worth to get up to speed.  An hesitation and you'll either miss the wave and get pummeled by the next wave coming or you'll be going to slow to stand up and get sucked  "over the falls" and held under the ocean until you think your head will explode.  So you paddle and paddle and paddle until you catch that beast and you stand up and own it.  These days it's pedal and pedal and pedal.)

_____
Save the dates:  HUNKR 6/9, 11/10 – TMWC 7/10
170.6
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CONNECTING THE PEEPS

CONNECTING THE PEEPS

Apr 03, 2018 TODD BROWN

ON THE WAY TO TMWC, JAKE ASKED ME HOW I MET HIS NEW BOSS GREG.  We were college buddies and we met as Brickers, a club on campus.  One year I was elected the Social VP.  Part of this entailed planning epic parties with a sister club... and the best part of that was deciding which girls lined up with which boys for the party.

I guess I'm still planning epic parties, and lining people up.
HUNKR, epic... and getting epic-er.
My buddy Andy is getting new trailers for his trucking business made at Baghouse which is a sponsor of HUNKR and owned by my friend Chad.
TMWC has been called the best morning ride in OC.
Jake would have got his new job anyway, but it is a curious thing how we connect with people if we'll just open our mouths.
Does it make a difference if people are referred or have a common, friendly connection?
Would the rides/races be any fun if we weren't all there?
What's in a reputation?
_____
Save the dates:  HUNKR 6/9, 11/10 – TMWC 7/10
171.2
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BORN TO RIDE A BIKE

BORN TO RIDE A BIKE

Apr 02, 2018 TODD BROWN

People ask me why
I never find a place to stop
And settle down, down, down
But I never wanted all those things
People need to justify
Their lives, lives, lives

Yes we were born, born
Born to ride a bike


Time was on my side
When I was riding down the street
It was so fine, fine, fine
A Stingray and canvas vans
It's something I need to occupy
A mind like mine

Yes we were born, born
Born to ride a bike


 

Save the dates: HUNKR 6/9, 11/10 – TMWC 7/10

171

 

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BENEFITS OF SHOP RIDE

BENEFITS OF SHOP RIDE

Mar 31, 2018 TODD BROWN

ONE OF THE REASONS WE STARTED THE SHOP (SATURDAY HOUR OF POWER) RIDE was so that the young guys could get home to their little kids.  It turns out it's good for the old guys, too.

I'm home 2-3 hours earlier.  At 9:45.

Because it's a "shorter" ride I'm fresher.

Which give me time for others besides myself.  This is not my default.  

Today I had time and energy to help a friend move her things from storage to a new apartment.  Then, had more time and energy to mentor a young, high school MTB racer.  Plus, a bit of time to help around the house.

These things made me happy
(in ascending order)
riding with my pals
helping a friend
giving back
_____

Save the dates: HUNKR 6/9, 11/10 – TMWC 7/10

170.4

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I'LL PUT MY MONEY ON HARD

I'LL PUT MY MONEY ON HARD

Mar 30, 2018 TODD BROWN

IF I HAD TO BET WHICH RIDE WOULD HAVE STAYING POWER, I'd put my money on the hard ride every time.

There are lots of nice, cosy, chitchat sorts of rides all over the place.  I've never seen one last.

It's the rides and races that make you see stars and huff-n-puff slobber all over your top tube that stick around for generations.

The granddaddy of OC is Como Street, a ride so old the street doesn't even exist anymore.  And the original riders... forget about it... they were WWII vets.  But, what they started roars every Sunday.  In another lifetime, me and a 100 other guys were "going long".  This was late 80's - black bibs and bright jerseys.  Local pros and visiting pros would show up and cut us down.

It was terrible.
And awful.
And we loved it...

... because it truly tested us.  Told us where we stood.  Pushed us beyond anything we thought was possible.  It was before HR monitors and Power meters.  You knew you were going hard as hell because all you could hear was you... blowing up.

So, when I posted this "If you are looking for an easy ride tomorrow, this isn't it" I knew I'd get takers.

For some of us,
only legendary rides
will help us comprehend
the legend inside.

_____
Save the dates: HUNKR 6/9, 11/10 – TMWC 7/10
170.2
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