MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

So I had hoped to have a lot of blog posts about fun bike rides while I've been out of school, but some how Virginia turned into a suburb of Canada and we've had terribly cold weather at times (like daytime highs of 15 with 30mph wind).  The days that were decent enough to ride, I was already committed to other things or at work.  Such is life!  It's been a busy time too - made 24 pounds of hard candy to give away for Christmas - something like 13 or 14 flavors.  It was fun, but time consuming!  It made my day when my coworker who has a gluten allergy was able to enjoy eating this candy and seemed to absolutely love it.  Anyway, classes start again January 3rd, so we'll see what happens next.  Also traveled to Tennessee last weekend to see the Lady Vols play Stanford in basketball.  It was an exciting game, I had awesome seats!  Going back this coming week for another game then again in January and February!  Love Lady Vols basketball.

 Meanwhile, hope to get in a bike ride of some sort soon - maybe tomorrow???  Who knows!  Anyway, I hope all of my readers have a wonderful and safe holiday season!!!!

Schedule of Events...

So this weather is irritating.  I have things I need to prepare for...  I guess I'll have to take my training indoors soon.  Here's what's in the plans.

02/06 - 03/06/2011 - MountainXCross Race Series by Bedford Co P&R

03/05/2011 - 5k Trail Running Race - Explore Your Limits by MountainJunkies

03/13/2011 - The Shootout at Anglers Ridge by SVMBA, Danville P&R, etc

I believe I've lost my mind...

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!

In keeping with last year, I got up early and went to run the Drumstick Dash!  My main goal today was to see to it that my trainer and good friend Lisa made it to the finish line in her first and probably only 5k.  I had a great time, and she made it to the finish line and actually smiled afterwards.  =)  Great job Lisa!!!!  I'm already looking forward to next year's Drumstick Dash!!!  This year there were 11,500 people registered to run/walk and it looked like most everyone showed up!  Great crowd, but very well organized event!  Good times!!!

Ramblings...

I love riding my bike, and I'm pleased with my progression so far in acquiring my Master's Degree; but oh I miss riding my bike.  Got out for a 12 mile ride (1hr29min)  today at the Cove.  It felt slow, difficult and challenging; yet it was extremely fun.  I guess I shouldn't beat myself up about my abilities, as I'm grateful that I am able to ride.  I really wish I could ride longer, faster and smoother.  I guess I have something to build on yet again.  Of course, now it's fall, daylight savings time has left us.  I will try to ride some in the evenings, but since I had the one light stolen, I'm left with a helmet light that isn't the greatest and a replacement handlebar light that I've yet to try in the woods.  I am not going to set any goals - long or short term.  I'm out of school until January 3rd, so I hope to get out each weekend for a bit of mtb'ing.  I'd like to go to different places each week, but we'll see.  So far, I have been to Montvale and Carvins Cove.  Will have to see what next weekend looks like, I might go back to the Explore Park as I haven't been there in a long time.  I'd like to go to Bedford and Lynchburg; but those both require more planning and ideally someone else to ride with.  I'm also going to be running the Drumstick Dash on Thanksgiving Day again.  I ran it last year with a bit more preparation, so we'll see how that works.  HA HA!  Planning to run after work tomorrow to see if I can actually run 3 miles without going into Cardiac Arrest.  

Leafy

Ok so Cliff has inspired to me to try to blog more.  I do think have a good excuse with school though.  Yesterday I decided to go ride at the trails in Montvale and was joined by my very good friend Tim.  It's always fun to hang out with Tim and he usually mountain bikes once a year.  Last time he rode in the woods was a year ago with me in Bedford.  HA HA.  I tossed out the idea of riding on Facebook hoping that a few people would bite, but no one did.  Oh well, they missed a fun, leafy ride.  

The leaves always make things interesting.  They cover the trail so you can't see exactly where you're going unless you're paying really good attention or the trail is obvious.  It also makes things a bit more slick.  Both of these factors led to a pretty cautious and slow ride which was fine with me since I am just not in the best biking shape.  We found ourselves off trail on a few occassions.  Once or twice, I think I wound up making a new path.  OOPS, sorry Kenny.  

As far as Montvale goes, I do like the trails, they are simple enough and challenging enough.  There are plenty of opportunities to go fast which I didn't really do a lot of and of course there are a few things that I can't do.  I swear I will ride across that skinny, flat bridge one of these days.  Both times I approached it yesterday my brain said no.  I don't get it, It's easier than the other stick-made, uphill bridge, but for some reason I freeze.  I've ridden similar bridges just fine too.  Oh well, reason to go back!  As far as the crazy uphill climb.  I started off from a dead stop because I couldn't make the switch back at the bottom, but then I climbed all the way to the with in 10 feet of the uphill right hand switchback before I ran out steam.  

Beales Treasure didn't quite kick my butt yesterday, but again I think I made my own trail at a few points.  Anyway!  We ended up making a loop then riding back down the access road and back tracking a trail or two to make up a 8.5 mile ride.  I think we did alright considering the conditions.  I certainly can and have ridden longer and farther as has Tim, but it was getting cool and I didn't want to have to climb back up to the parking lot again.  Such is riding for leisure!

Looking forward to the next opportunity to ride next Sunday.  Time changed and I'm not quite ready to go night riding and leaves yet, but we'll see.  I'm almost done for this term (only have to take my final exam and turn in one last assignment) then I get 6 weeks out of school.  Hoping to hit the trails every weekend while I'm out!!! 

Flood of 1985

Friends - if you have time the next few days, go check out WDBJ7's coverage of the Flood of 1985.  As a life long resident of Roanoke, I remember this all too well.  My home was flooded with about 18-20" of water, and I was left pretty much homeless.  As an 11 soon to be 12 year old, let me assure you this was a life-altering event.

I remember being stuck at school for a long time without being able to flush toilets or drink from the fountains.  I know that I ended up at my grandparents houses at some point before we could get back home and then the drive seemed incredibly long as we couldn't go our normal way.

Thanks to wonderful neighbors named Dave and Jean Vest we were able to stay in a warm house until my parents could clean our bathroom.  We then lived in my grandparent's travel trailer in the driveway until our home was livable again.  I can remember trying to go to sleep the night of Nov 4th and hearing the wailing of sirens from firetrucks and ambulances.  I remember my mother's bosses bringing us food and clothes.  I remember my teacher Mrs. Gobble picking me up and taking me to buy a new dictionary, thesaurus, etc.  I remember the National Guard standing watch in our neighborhood to protect us and our property from looters.  I remember hosing down a Jeep that had slowly circled our block looking to see what they could steal.

I believe we are shaped by what we've lived through.  I think it's because of my experiences in 1985 that my heart goes out to those who suffer natural disasters.  I think that this played a large part in my becoming a member of the Salem Rescue Squad so many years later.  And to prove we live in a small world - the "missing rescue squad member" you will hear about turned out to be the first paramedic I would work with at SRS.  I consider him one of my best friends to this day.  He is a wonderful person who taught me so much and had things been different that day, I would have never had the opportunity to know him. 

And to conclude - 25 years later, I work in the hospital that you will see was flooded.  I am proud to live in Roanoke, and I'm grateful that my community has served me well and helped me become the person I am today.

Theft

I lost some material items on Friday - a $250 bike light, $5, a couple of CO2 cartridges, the chuck that screws on top of them and essentially my seatpack since the zipper was broken during the theft.  Yea maybe I was stupid for leaving the bike light on the handlebars, but it takes a bit of effort to put in on the bars and to remove it, and there's no reason I would have ever thought to take the seat pack off.  Where did this offense occur?  In a place where I figured my bike would have been safe - the doctor's section of the parking garage at work, right in front of a security camera and near a door where there are people going in and out during the day.  Well as it turns out the security camera wasn't working, so there is no footage of the person hijacking my stuff.  I'm more than pissed that my stuff got stolen, but I won't make the mistake of leaving anything outside from this point on.  I will be taking my bike inside this week. If they are going to take time to steal stuff off of it, who's to say they don't mess with the components.  I not only lost material things, but I've lost a bit of peace of mind too.  I try not to worry about things, but now I'm going to go back to being paranoid I suppose.  I'm going to make a point of complaining about the non-functioning security camera.  It's not like we have the best and brightest people around, and we're not exactly in the best location; but for pity's sake, let's fix the security camera so that the next person doesn't get ripped off or worse - beaten up or injured!!!

Three? No Two? No Three? Oh crap.

So if you're a regular reader here, you know I went back to school earlier this year.  I am now entering my 3rd Quarter of my online MHA program.  So far it's been ok with a few hiccups along the way.  The biggest frustration by far has been the lack of time to ride my bike.  Of course it has been hotter than Satan's butt crack here all summer, so riding hasn't been a huge priority either.  I am really glad that I made it a point to go back to the Chicky ride and to continue my regular Sunday rides.  Otherwise my race last Saturday might have been a huge nightmare.

The race took place at the Montvale "Park" trails.  These are little known mountain bike trails that are super fun.  Of course, it's in Bedford County, so that means one thing KENNY PALMER.  =)  Love him, love his trails and as I told him, "if you have a race, I'll be there."  So there I was!  Somewhere in the midst of doing homework one night, I registered for the SPORT Women category.  Same as last year, I figured 2 laps of the trails and I should be ok.  I rode them the other week and knew where my biggest challenges would come.  


Once I arrived at the "park," I rode over and grabbed my number.  319.  Hmmm.  3...  Didn't think much of that.  I've had weird numbers in my days and usually they don't mean squat.  I've had 13, 66 that we added another 6 to, and 511 (get your highway info here)!  So I gathered my garb, got ready and then went for a short pre-ride with Super Chicky Paula S. After returning to the parking lot it was time for pre-race.  I wasn't paying enough attention I guess as I missed the part where KP said if your # starts with a 3, you're going to do 3 laps because when we lined up I was like no, dude Sports do 2 laps right?  Kenny - No Jen, three.  Me - two?  Kenny - No Jen, three.  Me - oh crap.  This race was going to be 3 trips up Beale's and 3 up the new hill and 6 miles longer than I planned on.  Oh boy.


Well I did what any slow poke should do.  I lined up at the front, giggled my tail off about it as I knew just about everyone was going to pass me.  HA HA, might as we be first for a few seconds.  =)  Well for the most part they all did pass me going up the hill through the grass.  We had to go through the dirt, excavation area that is the future Montvale Park (wheee!)  Dusty, dirty and fun.  


Once out of the field you cross over a creek (refreshing) and enter the single track.  The first trail is Yellow Drum and it is a windy, fairly flat trail.  No big deal except for this one log that I just can't seem to convince myself to jump over.  Well I got passed there and got behind a bit further behind.  Oh well.  Basically the race went like this.

• Lap 1: I want to quit.  Why am I doing this?  I'm hot, I'm tired, I'm whiney, Whoa is me.  
• Lap 2: Wait I can do this, try this, try that.  Drink drink drink.
• Lap 3: Well, why stop now, you're almost done and this really isn't that bad.  Go!  Stop being a whimp and ride over the stuff.

Memorable points:

• Beales Treasure - beginning to like this trail now - can't wait to go back...
• The Drop Off followed by the turn - um sure, I'm supposed to be able to ride that?
  Bridges - damn it Jen, just ride them.  You can ride in a straight line can't you?
• The CLIMB - I can probably climb it, but on lap 1, lost momentum, lap 2, got caught by faster people and didn't want to hold them up.  Lap 3, forget it I was tired.  
• Bermed turns - YEE HAW!!!  LOVE EM!

The race overall was awesome.  I really enjoyed it and was glad I went.  3 laps wasn't that bad! I almost caught Kyrsten, but blew it on the big hill.  I'd do it all over again, in fact I might do that Sunday!  I really do like these trails - can't wait for the rest of the park to be finished, but the trails are fine like they are.  Between Falling Creek Park and Montvale Park, I'm ready to pack my stuff and move to Bedford.  At least they are putting some money, time and effort into their parks.  

Thanks Kenny!  Thanks Volunteers!  Thanks Bedford Co. P&R!


Photo Credits: Karen Amato, Chris Overstreet and Tim Dahl (can't remember who's pictures are who's.)

A thought or two

Sorry to take a political turn here, but I want to say something.

First an Islamic organization wants to build a center of worship near Ground Zero, but was met with emotional and boisterous opposition.  Now a church in Florida is threatening to burn the Quran on Saturday.  

While I grieved right along with everyone else in 2001, I think a lesson that has been lost is tolerance and acceptance of people that are different.  Why all of the sudden is it ok for people to discriminate against and harass people of the Muslim faith.  Americans are going against one of the foundations of this country - religious freedom.  They are using fear, hate and stereotyping to justify this vile, hateful and not to mention instigating behavior.  

Until everyone can accept others for what and who they are this country will never move forward.  I think this is very sad.  We must learn to respect one another even those who having different beliefs.

Now back to your regularly schedule bike blog.

Chicky Ride - Mon 08/23/2010

So Monday night Paula and I met for the weekly Chicky ride.  Our numbers have dwindled.  Alas, the Chicky ride has traditionally been me and Paula for a couple years now.  We decided to change up things.  I chose the trails (albeit a fateful move).  We would go up Buck to the Fireroad then go down Gauntlet and back up Trough.  A L O T of climbing. Well, plans are made to be changed, and since I have an understanding friend, plans changed.  

As we rode out the road seeking the trailhead for Buck, we enjoyed chatting a bit.  As soon as we started up Buck, we both go knocked out of the pedals at the same time.  None the less we were off and going.  I was doing pretty well at climbing.  I impressed myself for a bit.  Punkin' was rolling up and over roots and rocks like it was happy. I was too, for a while.  I didn't drop to granny gear or stop for a while.  Some stuff just weirds me out still.  It might have something to do with the 6-8 feet drop off to the right if you mess up, but it likely has more to do with my lack of conditioning.  Anyway, after a bit of successful, happy climbing I was forced into granny then eventually walking.  Oh well, some stuff at the top of Buck is just too difficult for me.  A couple of gnarly switchbacks and a crazy section where you're riding in a sheer, short rock crevice.  I finally made it to the top where Paula was patiently waiting (well riding in a circle.)

As we started out Brushy Mountain Fireroad, I quickly remembered that this direction is all climbing.  DAMN.  I was struggling to keep a decent pace, Paula who is exceptional and I swear must be one giant lung got away for a bit.  She pulled up for a bit and waited, but soon her pace exceeded mine and she was gone again.  That's ok because I don't want to be waited on most of the time, and I know she will wait at the planned trailheads.  She's a good friend!  So as expected I found her at Gauntlet.  As much as I wanted to ride down it, I was afraid I wouldn't be able to manage getting back up Trough.  After some debate about routes, we decided to change plans and head down the fireroad to Jacob's Drop.

More fireroad kicked my ass some more and it seemed incredibly long for some reason.  I kept thinking I had missed the trailhead.  It began to sprinkle some rain - I giggled thinking it wasn't supposed to rain until Tuesday, so I was so slow that it was now tomorrow.  HA.  A short break was followed by the descent of Jake which is a nice in places and downright evil in places.  I was timid at best.  I got to the wrong side of the rock garden, clipped out and relocated to the other side.  I let the bike roll a bit forgetting about the 2nd section of rocks which by the time I realized was too late so I bounced on through.  Upon arriving on the moon, which I call the intersection of Jake and that fireroad, I could literally smell my brakes.  They were hot to touch, in fact I could tap my finger on them momentarily then touch Paula's arm and she could still feel the heat.  HA HA.

After this we headed over to Tuck and descended it as well.  This is the best downhill at Carvins Cove.  I was in the wrong gear at the "gulley" so I couldn't quite get back to the top.  None the less the downhill was as awesome as usual.  After Tuck, we meandered through part of EF followed by Little Bell and Schoolhouse.  Time was running out on us and we were both getting hungry so we decided to just take the fireroad back to Bennett Springs Rd.

It was an awesome and enjoyable ride.  I can't wait until next week.  I hope to ride my mountain bike at least 3 days!  I'm on break from school until the 7th so fun time exists!  In fact, I'm in Tennessee now and have no set plans here other than driving and taking some pictures!  Maybe a few short walks in the woods.  We'll see.  Not planning anything for certain!

Bye for now!

Since last we met...

Hello blog friends!  I haven't forgotten you!!!  Just finished up my 2nd term of the MHA program.  So far so good.  Despite a very heavy work load in the first half of the term, the class fizzled towards the end.  I'm glad to have this one in the rearview.  Financial Dimensions of Healthcare Leadership definitely was a stuggle at times.  I reckon I learned more than I think.  We'll see how it goes!  

Anyway, I'd be remiss if I didn't tell you the miles have come and gone for me on the bike.  More road miles than mountain though.  Let's see I did the Artie Levin 1/2 Century ride (ended up with like 55 miles for the day).  It was fun and I got to enjoy the company of one of my best friends Tim.  The Artie this year started at Waldron Park and went out Rt 11 to Stony Battery Road then back to 11 then Nace and Lithia Roads to Buchanan and back.  The scenery was as always gorgeous.  This is just a serene route to ride.  I have yet to tackle the Cement Loop and have had it planned twice now.  The first time I got rained out, and today I was too sleepy to get up early to ride.  

I am looking forward to the Chicky Ride tomorrow.  Since school is done for now, I can go ride as long as my body will let me.  We've definitely had some adventures on our rides.  It's always fun - snakes, chasing the boys, deer, near crashes, etc.  

I'll update you again soon.  Can't think of how to make this post exciting.  Hope that fall will soon come and bring cooler temperatures!  School revs back up on Sept 7th.  =)  

Later!

Fog? Rain? No problem.

Hello my loyal blog readers!  It's been a month!  I figured I'd better let you know I'm still kicking!  The 2nd term of school is almost over, but I decided a while back to get back on the bike more regularly.  Sundays have been my road ride day while Monday is the Chicky ride at Carvins Cove.  Each has offered up some adventures for sure!  The road rides have been the hottest rides ever and the coolest.  Last week it was absolutely sweltering by the end of my ride and this week I was cold when I left home!  Last week the sun was baking; this week the rain/fog/drizzle dominated the landscape.  I had forgotten what it was like to be chilly on the bike!  I'm glad I chose to wear my fluorescent yellow wind vest.  I selected it primarily for visability's sake, but ended up being grateful for the extra layer of warmth.  The fog was weird today.  I rode up Mill Mountain right in the middle of it.  I got drizzled on a few times.  Totally enjoyed being out on the bike today and not roasting for once!  I had planned to ride the Cement Loop which is a route through Botetourt Co by way of Rt 779.  You end up in Catawba.  Since it rained all night, I was afraid to try this one alone today.  Instead, I elected to take a route that my friend Tim had shown me once before.  The key today would be finding the path from the BRP to Dawnwood Road, which as it turned out is worn enough that you can see it without much problem.  

Today's ride took me up Mill Mountain, south on the Parkway to the path.  From there, you take Dawnwood Road to Poages Valley Road.  After crossing over Rt 221 and continuing on Poages Valley Road, you take South Roselawn to Roselawn which takes you to Brambleton Ave.  This ride seems to have a lot of climbing which is fine.  It also has some beautiful scenery.  Even with the dreary day, I was able to see nature at it's best.  Today was odd too because I kept seeing cops everywhere.  There were two Roanoke Co cops going out Poage Valley Road which I thought was odd.  Then I saw multiple Roanoke City cops on Brandon Ave, like 3 in a row.  And the oddest was when I was riding back up the Lick Run Greenway, a Roanoke City Sergeant was walking back up the greenway.  He startled me, I wasn't expecting a cop to be walking on the greenway.  He could tell that I was surprised and apologized as he walked past.  No problem dude, at least I know you guys are out and about!  I also got to see a whole RFD response to a call.  Medic-7 passed me on Brambleton. I heard Eng 7 on another road then RS-1 came flying by on Brambleton near Shenandoah Life.  I then ran across Eng 1 and Ladder 1 (well 901) on Franklin Road. Be safe guys and thanks for all that you do!  


Tomorrow is the Chicky ride again.  Let's hope we break the snake jinx.  I've been two weeks in a row and both weeks we've encountered a snake.  The first week was Timber Rattlesnake who was making sure we knew he was there.  HISSSS, RATTTTLLLLLEEEE.  This was the night I learned that my max heart rate is probably 178 bpm.  It's amazing how fast you can take off and ride up hill when you see a rattlesnake.  Last week, my pal Rachel found what turned out the be a Garter(?) snake.  I missed it as I was passing her when she had seen it.  She took a picture with her phone though.  One of the guys in the parking lot informed us of the identity of this harmless snake.  None the less, I hope that we don't see any tomorrow!


Ok, well I know this isn't a very exciting blog post, but just wanted to give ya'll an update.  Hope everyone is well.  I'm behind on reading your blogs because I have spent hours on Healthcare Finance.  See ya soon!  Take care!!!

And then I was...

Neil Armstrong!!!

It takes some real idiots to make the world go around.  Even more to taunt bike riders.  I've nearly been run off the road, hit by truck mirrors, had horns blown at me; but what irks me more than anything is for someone to yell stupid shit out their windows at me.  The beach was no exception.  The one day when the heat was less oppressive and I finally felt a bit better from my head cold, I took off on my road bike.  I was enjoying riding along when I heard a voice yell, "WOOOO!!!  Go Neil Armstrong!!! WOOOOO!!!"  I laughed, threw up my arm and turned to yell back, "It's Lance Armstrong, you idiot!"  I'm so glad this guy became the butt of his own joke.  What a dumbass.  I mean really if you're going to hurl comments at people, at least get it right.  DUMBASS.   I wish I had stopped to ask the jacknut for directions to the moon... 

Fat 5 Enduro

As much as lap three made me question my sanity and judgement, I can say that I absolutely love the Enduro concept.  Why you ask?  Well, instead of feeling like I need to ride so hard to outrace other people, this type of race allowed me to ride at my pace and do what I wanted to do.  I had no intention of trying to be competitive, nor did I really care how I would place.  My goal was to go and ride three laps, four if the pieces all fell together.  I haven't been riding that much at all as you know because school has taken up quite a bit of time.  That's ok too because in the long run success in the MHA program will hopefully lead to more money and more time to ride.  

Besides all that, who really cares if you win?  You really have to look at why you're doing something.  Are you racing for others or are you racing for yourself?  I race for myself.  I have no one to answer to but me, so as long as I'm happy with what I do then that's all that matters.  All the other stuff is just fluff.  I also know that being on a team means I need to represent myself and my team's sponsors well.  So going into the Enduro, I made up my mind to just have fun, do the best I could and be nice.  

Falling Creek Park is a beautiful park, but it offers up some challenging terrain.  There are fun, fast parts then there are parts that absolutely kill me.  I love it there though.  I think the "trail-boss" makes it more enjoyable too. I can't say enough positive things about Kenny Palmer.  I've praised him on my blog before and I will continue to do so because he's just that awesome.  He's built a great place to ride, puts on fun races and has a great rapport with others so that turns out great volunteers!  

I have no intention of writing this blog as a turn-by-turn report. If you want to experience the trails, go there!  It's worth your time, I promise.  I want to just point out a few things.  Overall, the course was great.  It was about 8 miles of single-track, open field and a tad bit of gravel road.  Like I said there are sections that I don't like, but that's mainly because I lack the cardio right now to climb them or I wasn't sure how to approach the particular obstacle.  I was proud of myself and my 29er (we're still getting acquainted).  I learned how to ride across a skinny, little bridge; I got better at switchbacks (downhill, rights still have me baffled) and I got really good at uphill switchbacks.  I grew very weary of the ridge loop, but giggled my ass off at the Fat Albert music on my three laps.  HEY HEY HEY, It's Fat Albert!  Yes there's a trail called Fat Albert.  I refer you to Kenny's literal naming of trails.  And I finally can say that I've ridden up the Deer Trail.  I think honestly this is the first time I've ever ridden up it 3 times and that it's been dry.  We had to endure this trail in each of the MTX races and each time it was slick, snowy or mud covered.  SO HAH, finally the Deer Trail has been conquered!


Next I want to salute the volunteers who came out to ensure our safety, hydration and to keep score for us.  I'm sure that as hot as our day was, there's was even more so.  I know what it's like to volunteer at events, so I know what it's like to have someone say THANK YOU!  And since, I was so slow and unconcerned with time, I made sure to try to speak to the volunteers who were on the course.  They deserve a lot of praise for spending hours in a field, under a tree or with a table of water and gatorade.  Be sure at your next event to say THANKS!  They really do hear you and your gratitude doesn't go unnoticed.  


And KENNY - THANKS MAN!!!  I loved it, and I can't wait to do it again.  How about a fall version???  Again, I will publicly state, if you have a bike race in Bedford County, I will be there.  Even if I have to crawl across the finish line, or race out of class, I will do what I can to support you!  You are absolutely the coolest race promoter around.  =)

I walked away from the Enduro, smiling and happy that I achieved my goal of three laps - I probably could have done 4 had it not been so hot.  I really want to try this type of event again, so now I must focus on building my cardio once the oppressive heat dies down some.  Again, the goal will be to just do the best I can and have fun.  I won because I went out and did something I would have never before attempted!  YAY ME!


Photo credit to Doug Falls...  =)  Thanks man!

Quick Summary

RE: Fat Tire Frenzy and Fat 5 Enduro

It was hot.
3 laps
4 hours 16 minutes of trying (38 minutes or so was my break after lap 2)
Average heart rate 151 bpm (my max is around 178-180ish)
I lost 3.5 lbs.
It was hot.

More later, back to schoolwork (maybe I was the only one there with a 4.0 GPA in grad school).

Coming up...

Saturday June 19th...  How will it go???  YIKES!  The forecasted temperature so far is 91°F...

UGH!

So I had a week off from school, and it pretty much sucked because of work.  Everyday there was chaotic and I wound up getting off late 3 out of 5 days.  How's that for annoying?  I'm hoping this next 10 weeks of school will allow me more bike time.  Due to different things on Fridays, I've missed riding to work the past two and will probably skip it this week as well.  The Chicky ride started again last Tuesday, so I was excited to get to actually ride mountainbikes with other people especially chickies!  So Monday, I will head out the Cove again to ride with them, but the next two weeks I will miss because of work and vacation.  HA HA. 

The road bike has gotten a lot of use so far this year, and I hope to continue this tomorrow!  Last Sunday I had a decent ride which improved drastically when I ran into some friends in Vinton.  I rode 60 miles total last weekend!  I fear that I've bit off more than I can chew for next Saturday.  I signed up for a 5-hour endurance event.  You get 5 hours to ride as many 8-mile laps as possible.  I've never ridden my mountain bike for more than 3 hours, well maybe one time; but that was years ago!  I have a strategy of sorts.

I will only be taking Punkin, my 29er.  Ritchey (26er) is going to stay home for now.  I need to ride it some more and adjust a few things on it.  What I plan to do right now is ride 2 laps (~16 miles) which will probably take me at least 2 hours, yes I'm slow.  At this point, I'll take a break - eat a snack, hydrate then try another lap.  If at the end of #3 I am feeling ok and have enough time, I'll go for the fourth lap.  I'm realistic and think that that's probably going to be about it for me.  That would put me at around 32 miles and Falling Creek isn't the easiest place to ride.  We'll see.  I'm just going to see what I can do.  No sense in getting stressed out over it or getting sick.

After this event is completed, I have a screwy work schedule, followed by a week at the beach.  I'll keep ya posted.

Thunder Ridge Report

Since I'm contemplating which homework assignment to dive into next, I will procrastinate by writing this report for you!!!  It is my desire to do different types of events on my bikes this year, so this past Sunday I participated in a group, road bike ride for charity.  This was the first Storming of Thunder Ridge which benefits a program at the Lynchburg area YMCA.  I have many wonderful friends in Lynchburg, so I've kind of adopted it as a 2nd hometown.  There were two distances for this ride - a 56k (35-mile) option which I did and a 100k which I might try next year!  

The ride itself starts just off of Rt 221 in Forest, VA and winds its way through some beautiful Bedford countryside.  It was a tad foggy and humid to start the ride, but otherwise a good day to ride.  I started off just after 8a.  I really didn't know anyone riding the 35-miler so I was pretty much on a solo road ride.  I followed this one guy in a bright yellow jacket for a while until he lost me on a short climb.  I was thoroughly enjoying the ride and looking around as I rode.  I had never been on any of these roads and had no idea where I was going.  Fortunately they had posted the course file on line so I was able to load it into my Garmin (which was the first time I've used this function).  

I rode along thinking of how nice it was to have the ability to go out and ride with no stresses in the world.  I stopped for a sip of Gatorade at one of the reststops, chatted with the volunteers for a minute then headed on my way.  I remember a few specific things from the ride - a couple of dogs that worried me, a turtle that I worried about, a cool rock statue, a collection of huge rocks at a church, the Sedalia Country Store, Gunstock Creek (listening to it was tranquil).  

I didn't really see other riders until I got to Sedalia.  I saw 4 ahead of me as I passed the Sedalia Center and thought it would be nice to try to catch them which I did.  I eventually passed all 4 and went on my way.  I was having an absolutely fantastic time.  Once I got back to Rt 122, I saw two more riders, an older guy and a young man.  They were stopped in front of a restaurant.  I smiled and continued on.  It was so cool on 122 as not a single car passed me while I was on that road.  I was also able to pedal fast.  I felt like I was moving at record speed.  (HA HA, I can dream.)  

After 122, you turn onto another road, I passed another rest stop where I just waved and continued on.  A few miles later I started feeling like my left pedal, cleat or something was loose.  I remembered this from Friday's ride home from work, but why 27 miles into an event it started again I couldn't figure out.  Well one pedal stroked up a hill proved it wasn't the pedal or the cleat - the whole crank arm came off!!!  WHAT??? 

Well of course, I stopped dead in my tracks.  I literally stood there wondering what the hell to do.  Here I was 8 miles from the end of the ride, a few people I could call if I got a signal...  Well I just decided to keep going towards the end.  I soon passed a lady, her daughter and two dogs.  They were like what happened?  I showed them the crank arm which I was carrying along in my left hand.  They were like what are you going to do?  I was like walk, ride or otherwise get to then end.  I think they thought I was nuts.  Soon the young man and the older dude caught up to me.  They were like what happened, you were flying?  I was like, um I broke my bike?  HA HA HA.  The young dude decided that if I was going to try to ride back with one pedal that he would as well.  They stayed fairly close to me for a bit then went on their way.  By now I had tried to put the crank arm back on, but didn't have a wrench large enough for the "outer" bolt.  I could tighten the inner one some and the outer one a little.  The crank arm would stay on for about a 1/2 mile at a time. When it was on I had to pedal very lightly on the left side.  I'd coast on the downhills then carefully try to pedal the uphills.  


I think the thing fell off at least 3 or 4 more times.  The other people who I had passed all passed me back.  Each offered assistance which was cool, but there was nothing anyone could do other than call for a ride which I had already decided against.  I wanted to finish on my own.  I'm just stubborn like that I guess.  I got within 3 miles of the finish when the race director waved me down, offered me water and called SAG.  I waited for about 5 minutes, but soon got hot waiting; and decided just to get done.  So off I went with my handicapped bike.  Pedal pedal, clank, plunk - this time I ran over the crank arm when it fell off.  I laughed as I veered to the side of the road to stop - ran back quickly and picked up my broken appendage.  This time I just stuck it in my back pocket and pedaled the last mile plus with my right leg.  Right before the last turn, my leg was fatigued to the point where I couldn't pull the pedal up and over the top of the pedal stroke.  


It was entertaining to ride with one foot.  Try it sometime.  The opposite leg has no idea what to do when you're pedaling with just the one.  I ended up propping my foot up just above the bottom bracket.  =)  I wish someone had gotten a picture...  I figure that broken part cost me about 20-30 minutes.  

Oh well, I had an absolute blast on this ride and hope to attend again next year.  If by chance I continue riding my road bike and can get my mileage and cardio up I will do the metric!  It supposed to be a 13-mile climb up Thunder Ridge!  WOW.

Thunder Ridge teaser....

Sorry haven't got time to write tonight, here's a picture for a teaser...

35.74 miles in 2:51:57***  would have been much better without a little snafu....

Half-Metric Century Today... 56k...

Details as soon as I have time to share...

Of roads, fireroads and trails...

So today I decided that I would give myself 3 hours to ride. For me there's really nowhere else to ride right now other than the Cove.  I can't take time to drive elsewhere, plus I know the Cove and I can get there and back in good time.  Since I was giving myself an additional hour to ride, I decided to ride my bike from home to the boat dock side of the fireroad and go from there. 

I rode from home through some neighborhood streets to get to Rt 11.  I was on 11 for a short period of time before turning onto Reservoir Road.  I had forgotten how hilly Reservoir Road is and found it to be rather challenging.  Nevertheless I forged on.  It took me about 30 minutes to get to the fireroad.  Once there, I could relax more.  It was wet, muddy in places and humid on this side of the Cove. We had a pretty decent thunderstorm last night which left a few puddles on the fireroad.  I decided that I would ride Arrowhead first and actually overshot the trailhead.  Once I started up, I did ok until it got really messy which messed me up.  I walked a short bit then rode up the big water crossing.  I started to try it then weenied out.  I walked a short bit after that.  I did ride into the next water crossing, but couldn't pedal out because I was in the wrong gear.  I successfully negotiated the next two crossings.  Surprisingly to myself, I made it to the top of Arrowhead pretty easily.  I was happy!  The descent is sketchy, yet fun.  I managed not to wreck, so that's always a plus. 

Next I decided to tackle Songbird.  This direction is usually a tad harder for me, but again I managed surprisingly well.  I think I was determined to get up the trails as easily as possible, but without killing myself on the climbs.  After zooming down the end of Songbird, I had to decide whether to go with original plan of climbing 1000' to Connector to the parking lot.  According to my calculations, I was not going to have time to do this today, so I turned around at the base of 1000' to return to the boat dock.  I stopped at the Songbird trailhead to talk to a couple of other riders before heading on.  I made myself ride as fast as possible for as long as possible until I arrived at Enchanted Forest.  I rode this section pretty well (skipped the log crossing).  Onto the Little Bell for a quick jaunt over to Schoolhouse.  On Schoolhouse, I managed all of the water crossings without hesitation.  The first creek was cool and refreshing!  Once I got to the picnic table, I decided to stop and have a granola bar.  I knew that once I got back to the fireroad I was going to have a task ahead.  The fireroad on that side of the Cove has more short steep climbs plus I had to get out of the parking lot back to Rt 11 which sucks royally for about the first 1/2 mile.

While I was enjoying my granola bar, I kept watching what I assume were fish jumping out of the water.  I heard a big splash and looked expecting to see a bird with a fish in it's grasp, but saw nothing.  Maybe it was the Loch Ness Monster or a dolphin.  HA HA HA, I know I know.  Anyway, enjoyed the short break before heading on my way.  Again, I tried to ride as quickly as I could - I still feel so slow and I definitely get tired easily.  The fireroad wasn't incredibly painful and seemed to go by fairly quickly.  Before I knew it was granny-gearing it up Reservoir Rd.  Once you get out of the bottom, you can roll on pretty fast.  Today I think I hit 30mph on the road at some point.  Once back at 11, I had to decide which way to go home.  I have several options, but today chose the most direct.

Arrived home after 27 miles and 2:42 of riding.  I really enjoyed my day.  I'm tired now, my legs/knees hurt and my head hurts (always does after rides anymore).  I'm going to sit and enjoy my evening while watching TV.  I've worked on writing assignments today and have a bit more to do, but it can just wait until after work tomorrow.  After all it is going to be raining!

Still riding some...

Hey Blog Readers!  I hope that you all are well.  I've been a busy girl with school, so I really haven't had much fun stuff to share.  I have been riding some.  I try to at least ride every Sunday, and recently I've ridden to work 4 days (out of 14).  I so enjoy riding to work in the mornings - it's much less stressful than driving.  The treks home have been fun as well!  Thought I'd share a picture from today.  I didn't make the return trip home as it started looking stormy outside and Jen does not do thunderstorms very well!  Looking forward to the next trip out on a bike.  =) 

What's up for me soon?  Well a 1/2 Metric Century (50k/35miles) next Sunday 5/23 and a 5hr MTB race in June....

I'm just trying to enjoy each opportunity I have to ride!!! 

Sergei's exercise.

I'm still standing...

Just a quick update.  Last week was a busy one with school starting.  I didn't have a lot of free time, and honestly my blog didn't even cross my mind.  I did manage to get some riding in this weekend.

Friday  -  13 miles at Carvins Cove
Saturday  -  23 miles on the road bike
Sunday  -  10 miles at Carvins Cove

46 miles is nothing really compared to my friends and their 6 hour race at Warrior Creek this weekend,  Some of them rode 48 miles in 6 hours!!!  Great job to everyone!  I'll see you out there soon.

DEBATE

RE: Fat Tire Frenzy 

Enduro which would be 5 hours to complete as many 8-mile laps as possible (have fun, achieve a goal of riding a longer distance race since I sold out on the 6 Hours of Warrior Creek)

vs

Sport Women - 2 laps, 8 miles each vs likely competition that would beat me Kristin C., Beth., Kirsten (13y/o phenom)

vs

Expert Women - 3 laps, 8 miles each vs Paula and Laura - will finish 3rd at best as I can't keep up with them now

I have until midnight tomorrow (4/1) to decide.

A new Sunday tradition???

Today was the first significant bike ride I've taken on a Sunday in several months.  I decided that when they started calling for a rainy weekend that I was going to go outside and enjoy it regardless.  I've had enough of snow, rain and mud to last a lifetime.  I also really wanted to go to the Cove since I hadn't been out there since January 1st.  I figured with the heavy rain we got Friday night things were going to be a bit messy, so I decided to take Ritchey for a spin today.

For a route, I decided to do an abbreviated version of something I've wanted to try for a while now.  That is to ride to the Cove from home, ride a route through the Cove and return home.  Today, since I've not ridden that much and in order to cut out some road miles, I asked my dad to drive me to the end of Timberview Road and drop me off.  He happily obliged.  Thanks Dad!  I knew the only choice in getting to the fireroad on Brushy Mountain was going to be to climb up The Trough.  I started towards the trailhead at a moderate pace and began the ascent feeling pretty decent.  I was able to successfully negotiate the switchbacks at the bottom and climb for a good bit before my lack of conditioning caught up with me.  I stopped for a breather and a photo op.  I continued on and had to stop again where the trail splits.  Managed to slowly continue to the climb before stopping a couple more times.  I spun out on some loose stuff near the top and ended up walking the last 50 feet or so because I couldn't get started again.

The Trough is in excellent shape right now.  It appears as though it sheds water rather easily.  The same would hold true for the Brushy Mtn fireroad.  There were a few places where the bike bogged down in some wetter terrain but for the most part, I was able to ride without too much trouble.  There are a few trees down on the fireroad which can be easily ridden around and there are several piles of snow still on the sides.  I debated options as I rode.  There are so many ways to add to this ride.  I can't wait to repeat it again in the upcoming weeks.  I passed a guy running with his dog and soon passed a lady who was hiking.  I was just as happy as a clam with little worry in the world today.

It seemed like forever between H-d-H/The Gauntlet intersection and Hemlock Tunnel.  I almost wondered if someone had taken the sign.  I do remember seeing it eventually as I began the downhill.  I zoomed by it thinking it was Jacob's Drop, but quickly realized I was approaching Jacob.  After this I quickly descended the 1000ft climb.  I had to be very careful where I went as the road got a little slicker the farther you went down and there is a significant number of branches and debris littering the road.  The descent was also very cold!!!!  I needed another layer!  Once at the bottom, I stopped to check the time.  It had been just over an hour since I started my ride.  I didn't think I had done so bad since I hadn't been out in forever!  

Now the flatter part of the trip towards home began. Again, there are many options for this ride; but today I had decided to stay away from Songbird, Comet & Enchanted Forest as they were likely to be muddy and messy.  I don't want to contribute to trail damage.  As I rode, I did decide to cross over Little Bell and Schoolhouse in order to omit some of the dreadfull fireroad which was a lot messier down here.  There were stretches where it was dry, but more so there were a lot of puddles and standing water.  Little Bell was not bad at all.  There are enough pine needles on the trail bed here to protect it and speaking of pine. The trail is beautiful right now with bright green, little pine trees showing off their spring color.  I probably should have stopped for a picture.

I arrived at Schoolhouse and decided to stay on the trails.  As for water on this trail.  It was both where you would expect it.  There is a significant amount of water in the big crossing.  I stopped to take a quick video as I debated how I was going to manage to get across the now over ankle deep crossing.  

I backtracked a bit then attempted to ride across.  I got most of the way across before my front tire rolled off a bigger rock and stopped me in my tracks.  I had to put my feet down resulting in wet socks.  Blech!  Fortunately the shoes did pretty well in preventing too much water from getting inside, and the choice to wear wool socks was a good one.  My feet didn't get too cold. After the foot soaking, there wasn't any more significant water to cross.  However, the area just before the picnic table where the bridge is is flooded.  I've never seen this much water under the little bridge.  It was surprising enough to me that I decided to walk it.

From the picnic table to the fireroad, Schoolhouse is a mess.  There is alot of standing water, mud puddles and slippery trail.  I tried to carefully ride so as not to cause trail damage.  There are also a couple of trees across the trail that you have to dismount for.  Once I got back to the fireroad, I head towards the boatdock.  This part of the fireroad can work you over pretty hard.  It's got a couple of significant hills.  I did ride the entire way back without stopping.  I passed more people as I neared the boatdock.  I went from having clean shoes (the creek crossing rinsed them) to having mud splattered shoes.  My legs became encrusted with splattered mud as I went along.  I wondered if the people I passed on the way out thought I was crazy.

I arrived at the end of the fireroad and quickly took a left up the road.  I had forgotten to put my Cove pass in my Camelback and didn't feel like listening to the WVWA guards if I ventured into the parking lot.  Climbing Reservoir Road is a bit of a challenge, but I think I did pretty good.  Once I crested the hill, I was able to roll on.  At one point, I looked down and I was going 28mph.  No wonder I felt cold.  It didn't take as long as I thought to get home from Reservoir Road.  I took some neighborhood streets so I could avoid Rt 11 traffic.

I got home without any troubles and flopped down on the back porch for a breather.  I had ridden 19.26 miles in 2:21.  I didn't think that was all that bad!  I'll take it.  I had an absolute blast today.  I can't wait to repeat this ride.  I might do it the exact same way or I might start adding some trails to it when it starts to dry up some more.  Just think I will be able to take Punkin out to the Cove eventually.  I just don't want to gunk it all up right now, plus I'm not ready to climb The Trough with 29" wheels yet.  =)

Chicky night out...

WOO HOO!!!  Punkin's second trip to the trails was Tuesday on Mill Mountain.  I met PSchimi at the Discovery Center to put some MMTrail mileage under my wheels.  We headed down Ridgeline Trail first to the intersection, decided to continue down to the end of it.  Once there we debated route selection some more, decided on Woodthrush, Virginia Pine.  So we headed over to Woodthrush for a quick jaunt to VP.  Of course, the equestrians have done quite a number on VP.  There are hoof prints which amount to pot holes on a mountain bike all the way up and down the trail.  The trail is rough and barely rideable in places.  SAD SAD thing that this damage has occured to a new trail.  It acutally ticked me off!!!

We bounced to the end then climbed back up.  Continued down Woodthrush to a "path" to the road.  Once on the road, we added light to our ensembles then did a screaming down hill to Sylvan where we rode up to Crystal Springs Trail.  We casually rode along here chatting quite a bit.  Stopped while P fixed her chain then headed into the neighborhood to ride some alleys back to Fern Park.  

The hill up Fern Park's trail is a gradual trail that's not too bad.  I like it and it's a good way to add mileage to a MM Ride.   The weird thing about this trail is that it meanders a bit and I'm never sure where I am in reference to anything else.  We actually rode through some snow on this trail!  Hard to believe that there was any left since the daytime high was 70°F.  Climbed back up to Yellow Mtn Road where we decided to attempt to climb up Ridgeline.  This trail is steep, rutted and has always been a hard climb for me.  I rode quite a bit of it, but was forced into hike-a-bike a couple of times.  Oh well.  Once to the top, the ride to the intersection was interesting due to leaf cover.  I rode off the trail one time by about 2 feet.  Crazy!  The ride from the intersection to the parking lot didn't seem like it took all that long.  

Of course, I enjoyed being out and about on the bike.  It is wonderful to be able to ride without freezing, and I'm looking forward to many more miles on the trails on Mill Mountain.  They seem to have held up reasonably well considering our weather.  I figure with school, the proximity of these trails to work is going to help me keep riding!  It was a great night to be out, and I hope it was a sign of things to come!  I also am gaining a bit more confidence with the night riding after the MTX and now this ride.  YAY!!!

The Maiden Voyage

Bedford County Mountaincross Series Race #3

What started out cold, snowy and very muddy ended on an absolutely gorgeous, unseasonably warm afternoon!  I must say I'm sad to see the MTX Series end for 2010.  I thoroughly enjoy this format and I enjoy the laid back atmosphere.  Too often I think people take racing too seriously, I mean really what fun is it when another racer plows you over and wrecks you in a race?  Besides that how often can I say that I beat anyone?  Rarely! 

So that brings me to race #3.  I've had a brand, spanking new Gunnar Rockhound 29er sitting at the foot of my bed for weeks.  I was impatiently waiting for the trails to dry and had only ridden the bike like 3 miles on neighborhood streets.  The wait was over, I couldn't resist the temptation any longer, so Falling Creek Park trails would be the first trails Punkin' would ever see.  I think there's a bond forming here.  =) I decided to take both bikes to Bedford to see which one I wanted to race on.  If I was comfortable with Punkin' I'd try it.  If not, Ritchey was ready, willing and able.  I got to FCP, decided what clothes would be appropriate, quickly changed then headed out towards last week's course.  I wove my way through then crossed over to Turkey Hill and found markings of this week's course, so I continued that path.  Punkin' was carving through turns nicely.  Rolling right along was awesome!  Then came the bottom of the hill where a wet, muddy, tire sucking trail awaited.  UGH, now not only was my new bike, yucked up with mud; but I realized one thing that was going to hold me back.  This flat section was agony by the end of the day.  As I finished up the lap, I decided that since I felt good, I'd ride another.

Since I skipped the first bit of the race course the first time around, I stuck to it this time and found a section of switchbacks.  I thought "wow, I'm screwed."  I don't particularly care for switchbacks and I'm not so good at them especially right handed ones.  Well I rode through them all cleanly the first time.  I was shocked.  The next thing that tripped me up was this short little uphll with a tree root in the middle of it.  I couldn't ride it - not nearly enough momentum.  (I walked this bit every time after). Oh well.

So after completing the 2nd lap, I got back to the parking lot to find a few other riders arriving.  I was swapping out clothing accessories and having a snack while chatting with them.  Eventually my teammates showed up and after chatting a bit decided to head out for a lap.  Some how I ended up leading this lap and hence completed a third lap.  Well of course, a feature of any Kenny Palmer race is a grassy section.  You climb hills, you go down hills, across fields - some how he always works in a grassy area.  This time we would have to climb from the creekside up to the picnic shelter where we got on the paved sidewalk then on to the top of the hill.  

The race went pretty well.  I felt like I did pretty good on the first three laps.  I was having a blast on the turns and downhills.  The flat, muddy trail and the grassy area were nearly torture.  Climbing the hill got harder and harder.  My quads and calves were on fire.  My other issue was being caused by a combination of improper seat position and my now not so favorite team shorts.  By lap 4, I could barely sit down on the bumpy sections of grass.  The back of both of my legs took a beating.  OWWWWWWW.  

I really wanted to keep my position in the standings so as disappointed as I was to have to face a 5th lap, I knew that it would help my chances of staying 9th overall.  So I kept going as best as I could albeit very slowly.  My legs were dying; I was getting tired.  By the time I got to muddy, creekside trail I was passed by both chicky teammates.  This would put Paula on her 6th lap!  I went to the easiest gear I could find and slowly ascended the hill (this being my 8th time up the damn thing). 


I successfully finished the MTX in 9th overall on my own lap!  It is fun to look at the standings and see some of the people I beat.  If it were not for the handicapping scoring, I'd never stand a chance of beating these people; but it does a good bit for my confidence though.  I love this series, and as long as Kenny's hosting them, I plan on being there.  That goes for all of his biking events.  He's just a good guy who I want to support.  I do appreciate the volunteers who came and helped him with scoring as well.  And I'd like to adopt Kenny's wife as my personal cheerleader.  I think she was encouraging me on every lap.  That really meant alot to me!  THANK YOU!!!  =)


Race Results: Me 17/30.  Teammates: Paula 1st, Warren 9th, Adam 10th, Laura 11th, Todd 16th. 

Overall Results: Paula won the series.  I finished 9th, like 2 laps behind her!  HA!!!  


Overall fun factor: off the charts!!!!

Cold, Windy, Full Moon

Bedford County Mountaincross Series Race #2

Toss in a 6pm start time, lights on helmets and one Jen...sounds like a recipe for a disaster.  Not so fast my friends!  It was probably 35°F while we raced Saturday plus wind.  BRRRRR!  Race #2 was a night race, lights required.  I brought out the NightFlux Photon Extreme that I won as a door prize from last year's Burn 24.  I need all the light I can get while riding outside, and this light is BRIGHT.

As it turns out, I was stupid and started at the wrong time last week.  I shouldn't have started with Paula, but probably 2 minutes later.  None the less, KP just adjusted my time accordingly.  In order to keep things consistant; I started with her again.  Well someone must have been shooting at her because Paula took off like a scalded dog.  I was left pedaling in her wake.  HA HA, it's all good - she's just that good.  I did manage to see her a few more times on our first lap, but after that I wouldn't see her again until after the race.  She turned out to be the winner this week!!!  CHICKYS ROCK!!!

The weather and resulting snow melt has played havoc with course layouts for this series.  This week's course turned out to be pretty good for me.  It was definitely not as technical as it could have been.  We started off in front of the old Bedford nursing home.  Took the road to the right hand turn.  Down a bit then a left up another road to the singletrack (Beaverdam?).  Along this section with surprisingly good traction and a few low trees - there was very little mud and only a bit of snow.  After this section of single track, it was back to the road again where we rode to the end and took a fast jaunt downhill through a field to the creek crossing from last week.  After crossing the creek it was like being sucked into quicksand as there waiting for us was soft, slimey, slick mud.  This took us to the bottom of the hill where soon we would be on fairly frozen, grass to climb up a long hill.  Soon we were back near the finish line where we had to dismount, cross two barriers then walk/run through the finish line.  REPEAT.

Seems simple enough right?  It really wasn't that bad.  I made up my mind that I didn't want to walk.  All those gears on a bike, why do you need to walk?  I did pretty good on my first two laps then I started being stupid.  Instead of riding around the snow at the bottom of the hill as I had down previously, I tried riding through it.  Bad idea, not enough momentum and I ended up in some softer stuff which killed the little momentum that I did have.  I pushed the bike forward out of the snow and tried to remount the bike.  Well I managed to hang my shorts up on the front of the seat.  DAMN!  So I had to fix my clothing malfunction before continuing on.  HA HA!  I decided that granny gear would be my best bet on the hill and it was a good idea.  I could hear the voice of Paula in my head, "just spin up it..." and so I did.

Three times around, someone asked how many laps I had done.  I replied, "3 I think," how am I supposed to remember that along with remembering to breathe and pedal?  =)  Anyway, I arrived at the rocky section of the trail on one of the laps and nearly wiped out in front of one of the fast dudes.  I think he thought I just veered out of his way - ok sure, that's what I did.  Well for some reason this goofed me up on this section every lap after.  I kept staring at the stupid rocks and had a terrible time riding this section.  Fortunately the road section was after this so I could regain my momentum and enthusiasm.  One of the laps I wiggled my pack around enough so I could turn my light up some.  I thought maybe I needed more light.  It didn't really help, but it certainly didn't hurt either.  I did find it rather amusing that I kept catching and passing this one guy on the road only for him to blow back by me at or near the creek or on the hill.  Then he would walk the hill, I'd pedal by him and he would blow back by me at the top.  Sheesh, doesn't consistant effort ever pay off?  I can't yo-yo my effort like that. I just have to keep going. 

I remember getting passed by several faster people - Cliff, Warren, Adam, Dave plus several more whose names I can't remember.  I did pass the beginner chicky twice.  Once early on on the hill and second on the single track - I tried to encourage her a long the 2nd time.  I think I might have even passed a slower person or two on the hill; but I can't honestly remember.

I had an absolute blast again!  Who knew riding a bike in the dark and cold could be so much fun!  I still look forward to warmer, drier conditions.  I still hope that with school that I have time to continue enjoying riding and racing!!!  One more MTX race next Sunday the 7th then maybe a regular race in NC on the 21st.  We'll see.

Meanwhile as for results: Paula won, my friend Cliff from Lynchburg was 3rd, Warren 4th, Adam 8th, Me 9th, and Todd 16th.  My poor friend Laura was attacked by the evil GI bug who knocked her out early on.  Kudos to her for even showing up and trying!  Sounds like RoanokeOutside.com has a good team this year.  The handicapping system is skewing the results and making me look good as I'm 9th overall after two races on a lap of my own.  The leaders have completed 12 laps, I have done 11 and the people behind me are on lap 10. 

The DT's are over, I finally got my fix.... of mountain biking!

Bedford County Mountaincross Series, Race #1

I feel like an addict who just got a fix!!!  Yea!!!  What a fun day!!!  In case you don't know what Mountaincross is, let me try to explain.  Everyone races everyone regardless of skill level, the race is handicapped by time.  Lesser experienced people get longer to race; the more experienced race the shortest time.  The course is a closed loop usually 1 - 2 miles; so you complete as many laps as possible in your given time frame.  The person who completes the most laps wins.  I knew going into this that I wasn't going to win, and having been sick for two weeks; I knew it was going to be a hard day. 

Regardless my attitude was to have fun and just enjoy the day.  Since the last time I rode a bike on a trail was New Years Day, I had no high expectations.  I figured if I got 3 laps out of my 51 minute race then I'd call it a successful day.  I also figured it was going to be fun anyway since the course was going to have snow, slush and a lot of mud.  The temperature was mid-50's so what slush there was quickly turned into mud.  I had a blast in the snow/slush.  Having played on my bikes in the yard during the recent snows, I've learned a bit about keeping it upright and moving when it wants to go in an other direction.

As it turns out, Paula was signed up to be in Sport Women class as well, so I would have someone to ride with or chase as the case would become.  I was happy as a clam that I managed to stay right with her for the first two laps.  I soon fell behind, but staying that close to her was fun while it lasted.  It was also amusing that we made a complete lap before a lot of the fast guys got started so we came through the start/finish line right together.  I think our first lap was 10-11 minutes, but I'm not certain about that.  Of course I probably finished way behind the winners since most everyone passed me at some point during the race.  I think I finished 5 laps.  Each one was more and more entertaining, yet tiring! 

The course itself was entertaining.  We started off on the paved walking trail that encircles the park.  After that, we made a left onto some single track.  The first bit of it wasn't too bad.  There was this one rise with a tree root in it that I struggled with especially as the race went on because it got more and more slick on this section.  After this there was about a 3 foot long walk up which was like climbing up half melted butter, again this got sloppier as the race went.  On my last time through it I stepped in a place where someone had been before and was mid-shin in muddy water.  Thankfully I have waterproof shoes!  This walk up was followed by the gnarly downhill.  This section is treacherous when it's dry, but today was crazy!!!  The first trip down was insane especially since few people had been on it.  There was a lot of snow, a lot of rocks, and a lot of mud.  I can't remember if it was trip one or two where my front tire got sucked in and I nearly endo'd.  I know another trip I ran halfway down it and yet another I bounced down with one foot out of the pedals.  A quick left and right took us to a slick bridge where I just slowed down and carefully rode across each time.  This was followed by sloshy, soaking wet grass.  Here there were patches of leftover snow/slush.  Of course there was a stream crossing that led to a muddddddy flat section.  Last but not least was the lower deer trail.  This trail has a few switchbacks and offers up a nifty climb.  I think I rode sections of it each laps.  As it went along, the deer trail became the deer stream.  There was literally a stream of muddy water running down the trail at the end. 

I had an absolute blast today.  I was very happy with my effort today!  I'm not sure I could have done much better even had it been dry.  The mud just added to the entertainment value.  I'm so looking forward to it drying up!  Time will tell though!  Doesn't sound like this week is going to help with that.  The next race is Saturday night where we will be using bike lights!  I am not good at riding in the dark, so I will just keep the same attitude as today - have fun!