Another beautiful winter weekend full of riding! I'm telling you, we don't know how fortunate we are for these warm, sunny days of January. In fact, I was talking with Happy on yesterday's Twisted Figure 8/Reverse Johnson/Manzeirre Loop, (TF8RJML), about riding through winters in northwest Ohio. I mean talk about cold. My riding buddy Rob "El Robbobank" Francis and myself would ride out of town into the country to a loop aptly named, "The Pits". We would suffer through as many 5 kilometer laps until we just absolutely had to get home to thaw out every appendage on our bodies. Cold?! Oh yeah, it was cold!
No such pain and suffering in northwest Florida though...other than that which we inflict upon ourselves. Like Saturday for example, we headed out under sunny skies with a temperature in the mid 50s to mid 60s. The pace was very civil, other than an occasional flyer from the likes of Danamal, Retro or Coolio. We cruised across 3 Mile Bridge and looped through Gulf Breeze, where we picked up a few more riders. A very large peloton who seemed to be more concerned with the state of the political scenery than putting the hammer down. I think we had just about all of the regulars with the notable absence of Gianni Bugno, Bad Mayonnaise and Crusher, (who had some excuse about dropping a chain on his brand new Trek Madone). It was great seeing Lawman, Big Motor, EHOP and so many others that to name them all would take up more time than Romper Room. (Whoa, where did that come from?!)
We crossed the Bob Sikes Bridge and onto the beach itself where the days proceedings began in earnest. As we made it through the Park gate, we regrouped with yet some more riders. Meri Asmar and her peeps as well as Craig "Valkyrie" Van Valkenberg. With this huge peloton we headed for Fort Pickens and the infamous Brick Wall Sprint.
The headwind appeared to keep the Big Dogs at bay as everyone was scrambling for a Clydesdale draft. (I think I just figured out why the are called Draft Horses). As we passed the old Coast Guard house, Retro takes one of his patented flyers gaining a quick 100 meters on the bunch, thus starting the Brick Wall antics. A young Jedi (named unknown) jumped out there as well. These two bandits shared the workload and amassed a lead of about 200 meters as the chasers passed the general store. This is where it all started to deteriorate for the two escapees.
The posse was hungry for a win and all bets were off! "Let the big dogs eat!" One after another took a ferocious pull into the teeth of the wind cutting the lead to less than 150 meters with 1/2 kilometer to go. Another young Jedi, Bryan "Juan Pelota" Paul put in a valiant effort that would have made Luke Skywalker proud. As he gave up the ghost, only The Vortex and Danamal were still standing. The Vortex, (who vowed earlier not to sprint, stating, "I choose, not to sprint!"), stomped on his unbroken pedals trying to pull the Danamal up to spoil the party for the two would be winners.
With a mere 200 meters to go, the two chasers were less than 50 meters behind the two leaders. However, the big Clydesdale boy, who admittedly is not quite back to his pre-crash form having gained more than a few pounds during his recovery, turned his last pedal in anger. Pulling over, he waved the Danamal onward, barking, "Go get 'em!" With the bit between his teeth, Danamal charged hard with head down and eyes blurred. Retro, who must have sensed the catch was imminent, jumped out of the saddle heading for the line which is the Brick Wall itself! (I just love this kind of stuff!) He blows by his young compadre with 50 meters to go. Danamal was now just a mere 10 meters back and closing. The fans were going wild!
As they approached the line, it was going to be close! At this point, only the Danamal himself knew if he had left enough in the tank to overtake Retro at the line. It was, in fact, going to be ever so close! With his last vapor of fuel, Danamal lunged for the line, just missing the top spot on the podium by a few short meters. Retro had planned his escape to perfection, winning the Brick Wall Sprint and bragging rights for the week. The young Jedi, who wasn't quite sure what was going on, finished a very close third. (Who was that guy?) The Vortex and Nestordamus cruised across the line together leading the other spent chasers. Congrats to Retro for a savvy Brick Wall win!
We all regrouped at the docks and after much banter, decided to head back under the white flag. With the tailwind, the pace was higher than normal (what's normal?) however, not the sufferfest most enjoyed (endured) on the way out. We made our usual stop at the Tom Thumb to fill the bottles and tell stories. The ride for home was very civil with all pretty much together. Even the 3 Mile Bridge crossing saw a pace around 20mph. Great ride on a great day! Truly an enjoyable winter ride!
If you missed the festivities, I know you're bummin'. However, don't fret yourself, we'll do it all again this coming weekend! In fact, the cast of unusual characters, (COUCs. Pronounced: kooks) is heading out to the group fave UWF/Screaming Hills Loop! If you like hills, this route is for you. If not, come on out anyway and ride with the Clydesdales at the back. (The big boys have more fun anyway!)
See you out on the road,
Bob
Monday, January 30, 2012
Friday, January 27, 2012
The News You've Been Waiting For!
Yes, cycling fans and those of you who just love competition, here's the news you have been waiting for; the results of the 3rd Semi Annual Blogazoidal Contest! This time around it was crazy fun with all the contestants and the interesting (humorous) answers. I do enjoy these contests because it gives you a snapshot of the peloton's mindset. For example; Question 3. Other than the Rides Calendar, do you know which Page (not Post) is the most viewed? I mean, by far it has more hits than any other Page, more than doubling the next popular Page, About Our Group. Now, even though it has the most hits, (which is a very interesting fact that we should take to heart), not a single contestant answered that question correctly! In fact, it was the only question without a correct answer.
Which Page has the most views? Speed (Pace) Chart.
Other than the Rides Calendar, (Time and Place), the speed of a ride is evidently the most important bit of information to those checking us out. This is a very critical piece of information to the leaders of any cycling club as well. It means that the pace of any given ride is very crucial to the success and growth of the group. If you advertise a moderate pace (17 to 20mph) then you better keep the pace close to those numbers because it is a very important element to those wanting to ride with you. Just FYI.
Now, before we post the results of the Contest, let's check out our ride scheduled for tomorrow morning. The weather forecast looks fantastic with temps at start time in the mid 50s finishing up in the mid 60s with sunshine aplenty! Looks to be a slight breeze out of the northwest at 4 to 5 mph so we are cleared for take-off for the Fort Pickens Loop! This will be the first time Crusher and The Vortex have ridden back out on the "Highway to the Danger Zone" since last October when they both became much more acquainted with the pave' than either ever wanted too. The Brick Wall Sprint will surely be contested but I doubt you will see either of the big boys entering the fray. (Although, you never know...that Vortex can be quite savvy...and stealthy too!) Word on the street is we will have the pleasure of Coolio's company as well! Alright, plenty of fodder for the next blogulation.
So here's the particulars:
Tomorrow morning at 8am at Fish and Wildlife for the Fort Pickens Loop. There will be a group meeting at the south end of 3 Mile Bridge in Gulf Breeze as well. If you are meeting us in GB, please be ready to roll at 8:20am as we will slow down but not be stopping. The pace will be moderate for this 45 to 50 miler (39 to 44 miles from GB) and we will have one rest stop. Please bring an extra $3 to get in the gate to the National Park. You may not need it as several of the riders have annual passes that allow 4 riders each. However, sometimes we don't have enough passes to cover everyone.
Now for the results of the 3rd Semi Annual Blogazoidal Contest!!!
1st Place and winner of a $20 gift card*...................................Nestor "Nestordamus" Arquea
2nd Place and winner of a $10 gift card*.................................Richard "Left Lane" Lopiccolo
3rd Place and winner of a $5 gift card*....................................Tim "Crusher" Fox
*Gift cards supplied by the great guys at Cycle Sports in downtown Pensacola! Thanks Tom and Brian!!!
Here are the correct answers:
1. The date that the Blogazoidal surpassed 20,000 hits was January 6, 2012.
2. The most popular post written in 2011 is "The Lillian Loop Never Disappoints"
3. The Page with the most all time views, other than Rides Calendar is "Speed (Pace) Chart"
4. Tie Breaker was 7428.
Congratulations to all our winners! And thanks to all of you that entered the contest. We had the most entries ever for this contest. Even the lovely Mrs. Graves entered for the first time. (Uh, she finished tied for last place. I actually was very relieved...could you imagine the flak I would have received if she had won?!)
See you tomorrow morning and as always, I'll...
See you out on the road,
Bob
Which Page has the most views? Speed (Pace) Chart.
Other than the Rides Calendar, (Time and Place), the speed of a ride is evidently the most important bit of information to those checking us out. This is a very critical piece of information to the leaders of any cycling club as well. It means that the pace of any given ride is very crucial to the success and growth of the group. If you advertise a moderate pace (17 to 20mph) then you better keep the pace close to those numbers because it is a very important element to those wanting to ride with you. Just FYI.
Now, before we post the results of the Contest, let's check out our ride scheduled for tomorrow morning. The weather forecast looks fantastic with temps at start time in the mid 50s finishing up in the mid 60s with sunshine aplenty! Looks to be a slight breeze out of the northwest at 4 to 5 mph so we are cleared for take-off for the Fort Pickens Loop! This will be the first time Crusher and The Vortex have ridden back out on the "Highway to the Danger Zone" since last October when they both became much more acquainted with the pave' than either ever wanted too. The Brick Wall Sprint will surely be contested but I doubt you will see either of the big boys entering the fray. (Although, you never know...that Vortex can be quite savvy...and stealthy too!) Word on the street is we will have the pleasure of Coolio's company as well! Alright, plenty of fodder for the next blogulation.
So here's the particulars:
Tomorrow morning at 8am at Fish and Wildlife for the Fort Pickens Loop. There will be a group meeting at the south end of 3 Mile Bridge in Gulf Breeze as well. If you are meeting us in GB, please be ready to roll at 8:20am as we will slow down but not be stopping. The pace will be moderate for this 45 to 50 miler (39 to 44 miles from GB) and we will have one rest stop. Please bring an extra $3 to get in the gate to the National Park. You may not need it as several of the riders have annual passes that allow 4 riders each. However, sometimes we don't have enough passes to cover everyone.
Now for the results of the 3rd Semi Annual Blogazoidal Contest!!!
1st Place and winner of a $20 gift card*...................................Nestor "Nestordamus" Arquea
2nd Place and winner of a $10 gift card*.................................Richard "Left Lane" Lopiccolo
3rd Place and winner of a $5 gift card*....................................Tim "Crusher" Fox
*Gift cards supplied by the great guys at Cycle Sports in downtown Pensacola! Thanks Tom and Brian!!!
Here are the correct answers:
1. The date that the Blogazoidal surpassed 20,000 hits was January 6, 2012.2. The most popular post written in 2011 is "The Lillian Loop Never Disappoints"
3. The Page with the most all time views, other than Rides Calendar is "Speed (Pace) Chart"
4. Tie Breaker was 7428.
Congratulations to all our winners! And thanks to all of you that entered the contest. We had the most entries ever for this contest. Even the lovely Mrs. Graves entered for the first time. (Uh, she finished tied for last place. I actually was very relieved...could you imagine the flak I would have received if she had won?!)
See you tomorrow morning and as always, I'll...
See you out on the road,
Bob
Monday, January 23, 2012
The 3 Amigos And A Reverse Johnson
That was a fantastic weekend of riding! Sure we had a bit of fog early, but once it burned off, it was just about perfect riding weather. Several of the riders were lamenting the fact they were sweating on our rides...and it is January! However, might I remind us all of just a year ago when the temps were much cooler and wetter! Besides, I know a few of our northern brethren who would absolutely love to be sweating this time of year. Anybody ever ridden through a Great Lakes winter?
Well, Saturday saw the cast of unusual characters (COUCs. Pronouced: kooks) heading out on the (almost) group fave; 3 Amigos Loop. The skies were a bit foggy to match the mind of the Left Lane as he jumped out in front cruising through the first of many traffic lights of the rojo hue. (Uh...that's Spanish for those of you less fortunate than my bilingual self. It means: Red. Frankly, I'm not sure I would follow him into a McDonalds.) However, just as the pace settled in with the group all together on Johnson the Prenti (EHOP) flats. After the pause that refreshes, we were all back together all the way across Detroit and down 8 1/2 Mile Creek Road. (I wonder who named that road?)
Anyway, the group disintegrated a bit along Blue Angel Parkway with the big guns pushing the pace up front into what was now a pretty stiff headwind. With carnage aplenty, everyone regrouped at the right hander that is the Lillian Hwy. (Except for Danamal and Happy who pressed on alone on Blue Angel.) The pace was moderate along Lillian Hwy and down Dog Track to our much needed rest stop. The group was in fine spirits as we filled the tanks, emptied the radiators and told stories. With the festivities over it was back to the business of the day...fighting the headwind until we make the turn for home on Gulf Beach Hwy.
Gianni Bugno, Left Lane and Big Motor had the bit between the teeth as we enjoyed the first fruits of our much deserved Tailwind Express on Gulf Beach Hwy. They were cruising along in the low 20s just 75 meters ahead of the bunch when, Katie Bar The Door...here comes Retro with head down, charging like he was late for dinner! "Who let the dogs out?!" He hauls several of the bunch up to the 3 Amigos, passing them with a smile at 30mph! It was a hammerfest all the way to Fairfield and then the much needed truce among the combatants ensued. However, for just a kilometer or so, as the frisky Left Lane and then the cheeky Vortex launched equally vicious attacks toward the paramount prize of the day, the infamous Fried Twinkie Sprint!
The group would have no more of these futile attacks, reeling the two bandits, with the help of a very fit looking Destry "LeBrun James" and the Danamal (who must have bought a fresh pair of legs) like a mullet on a line. However, just as the group was all back together, that feisty Left Lane chose to counter-attack just before the road turned to gravel. The rest of the bunch decided to turn off the gas thinking a face full of (imaginary) Fried Twinkie was not worth a face full of very real gravel. Congrats to the Left Lane for his savvy victory!
Great ride on a winter day! This rider had 48 miles as I pulled into my garage.
Sunday saw the COUCs back at it on the Reverse Johnson (didn't even hurt) Loop. Strange name for a route but consider the source: Prenti (EHOP) and Left Lane. Need we say more?! We had a couple of new (old) faces in the peloton for this delightful afternoon. Yes, cycling fans, the little crusty climbing curmudgeon was out, looking quite fit for this time of year. Usually Triple C is hibernating on the sofa in his family room or downtown at Krispy Kreme this time of year. However, it was great to see the little fodderer in the group. The Blogulator always has plenty of fodder for blogulating whenever the master fodderer (MF) is within the peloton. I just love this guy!
Not to dwell on the deepest pile of fodder only. There were, in fact others on the ride, including our new friend Ray Groves. (That's Groves, not Graves. However, it was determined that our ancestors were relatives living next door to one another in an orchard and a cemetery. Guessed who lived where?) Anyway, apparently Ray has been around cycling for a long time. Strong rider and has a good sense of humor...a must for riding with the COUCs! Welcome Ray Gun!
Well, no sooner had we started down the road then this blogulator knew he would have fodder aplenty. The first sprint saw Left Lane, EHOP, Gianni, Nestordamus and Coolio (Triple C) going at it. The Vortex, Ray Gun and Trish "The Kat" Kuhnell decided to watch this from the sidelines. Try as he would, Triple C couldn't beat Left Lane for the honors. However, it soon became evident that the little crusty one was actually using the sprint to launch his attack for the top of the bridge honors. He, in fact, had a substantial lead as the group made the turn to get onto the beast itself. Coolio's lead appeared unassailable, but with 50 meters to go to the prize, Nestordamus blows by him like a fly passing up manure! The fans were going wild! It was all in good fun of course...but it was funny too!
We cruised on down to a rest stop at the end of Palafox with the group enjoying each others company. What a beautiful setting on a Sunday afternoon. After the pause that refreshes, the abbreviated peloton headed for home...with a quick stop for some lemonade being sold by a group of kiddos by the side of the road. (It was much more lemon than it was ade! Can you say pucker up?!)
See you out on the road,
Bob
Well, Saturday saw the cast of unusual characters (COUCs. Pronouced: kooks) heading out on the (almost) group fave; 3 Amigos Loop. The skies were a bit foggy to match the mind of the Left Lane as he jumped out in front cruising through the first of many traffic lights of the rojo hue. (Uh...that's Spanish for those of you less fortunate than my bilingual self. It means: Red. Frankly, I'm not sure I would follow him into a McDonalds.) However, just as the pace settled in with the group all together on Johnson the Prenti (EHOP) flats. After the pause that refreshes, we were all back together all the way across Detroit and down 8 1/2 Mile Creek Road. (I wonder who named that road?)
Anyway, the group disintegrated a bit along Blue Angel Parkway with the big guns pushing the pace up front into what was now a pretty stiff headwind. With carnage aplenty, everyone regrouped at the right hander that is the Lillian Hwy. (Except for Danamal and Happy who pressed on alone on Blue Angel.) The pace was moderate along Lillian Hwy and down Dog Track to our much needed rest stop. The group was in fine spirits as we filled the tanks, emptied the radiators and told stories. With the festivities over it was back to the business of the day...fighting the headwind until we make the turn for home on Gulf Beach Hwy.
Gianni Bugno, Left Lane and Big Motor had the bit between the teeth as we enjoyed the first fruits of our much deserved Tailwind Express on Gulf Beach Hwy. They were cruising along in the low 20s just 75 meters ahead of the bunch when, Katie Bar The Door...here comes Retro with head down, charging like he was late for dinner! "Who let the dogs out?!" He hauls several of the bunch up to the 3 Amigos, passing them with a smile at 30mph! It was a hammerfest all the way to Fairfield and then the much needed truce among the combatants ensued. However, for just a kilometer or so, as the frisky Left Lane and then the cheeky Vortex launched equally vicious attacks toward the paramount prize of the day, the infamous Fried Twinkie Sprint!
The group would have no more of these futile attacks, reeling the two bandits, with the help of a very fit looking Destry "LeBrun James" and the Danamal (who must have bought a fresh pair of legs) like a mullet on a line. However, just as the group was all back together, that feisty Left Lane chose to counter-attack just before the road turned to gravel. The rest of the bunch decided to turn off the gas thinking a face full of (imaginary) Fried Twinkie was not worth a face full of very real gravel. Congrats to the Left Lane for his savvy victory!
Great ride on a winter day! This rider had 48 miles as I pulled into my garage.
Sunday saw the COUCs back at it on the Reverse Johnson (didn't even hurt) Loop. Strange name for a route but consider the source: Prenti (EHOP) and Left Lane. Need we say more?! We had a couple of new (old) faces in the peloton for this delightful afternoon. Yes, cycling fans, the little crusty climbing curmudgeon was out, looking quite fit for this time of year. Usually Triple C is hibernating on the sofa in his family room or downtown at Krispy Kreme this time of year. However, it was great to see the little fodderer in the group. The Blogulator always has plenty of fodder for blogulating whenever the master fodderer (MF) is within the peloton. I just love this guy!
Not to dwell on the deepest pile of fodder only. There were, in fact others on the ride, including our new friend Ray Groves. (That's Groves, not Graves. However, it was determined that our ancestors were relatives living next door to one another in an orchard and a cemetery. Guessed who lived where?) Anyway, apparently Ray has been around cycling for a long time. Strong rider and has a good sense of humor...a must for riding with the COUCs! Welcome Ray Gun!
Well, no sooner had we started down the road then this blogulator knew he would have fodder aplenty. The first sprint saw Left Lane, EHOP, Gianni, Nestordamus and Coolio (Triple C) going at it. The Vortex, Ray Gun and Trish "The Kat" Kuhnell decided to watch this from the sidelines. Try as he would, Triple C couldn't beat Left Lane for the honors. However, it soon became evident that the little crusty one was actually using the sprint to launch his attack for the top of the bridge honors. He, in fact, had a substantial lead as the group made the turn to get onto the beast itself. Coolio's lead appeared unassailable, but with 50 meters to go to the prize, Nestordamus blows by him like a fly passing up manure! The fans were going wild! It was all in good fun of course...but it was funny too!
We cruised on down to a rest stop at the end of Palafox with the group enjoying each others company. What a beautiful setting on a Sunday afternoon. After the pause that refreshes, the abbreviated peloton headed for home...with a quick stop for some lemonade being sold by a group of kiddos by the side of the road. (It was much more lemon than it was ade! Can you say pucker up?!)
See you out on the road,
Bob
Friday, January 20, 2012
It's That Time Of Year Again! CONTEST!
That's right cycling fans and those of you who love to win (big) prizes! It is time once again for our semi-annual Blogazoidal Contest! This will be our 3rd semi-annual, (uh...that's 13 months for those of you less fortunate than my advanced mathematical self) contest testing your knowledge of our Blogazoidal. You know, one must be quite savvy to win one of these contests. It's like the final sprint of the Tour on the Champs de l'Elysee...one must have a stealthy ability to sneak up and pounce just at the right moment! It's not as easy as it looks...just ask the Left Lane who has finished in the money twice but just missing the top spot on the podium.
I just love this contest, don't you? I wish I could be a contestant and try my luck at winning the (big) money! In fact, maybe I should. I wonder if I would win? Think anyone would notice I entered?
But before we get to the questions and acknowledgment of our awesome sponsor this time around, we have a few housekeeping items of importance. I receive several of these type of informational emails and texts every month. Some to be sure are valid and important for the cycling community while others are, shall we say, less than Blogazoidal worthy. I try to filter so you don't have to. (You can thank me later.)
Housekeeping Items:
1. Last week I heard from Michael Luescher with Volkert. As some of you may know, Volkert is the engineering firm that oversees several highway construction projects for Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). Mr. Luescher informed me that starting in April of this year that some of the bridges of the causeway to Pace will be replaced. These projects will last about 4 years. This could put a damper to all our around the bay loops. Our thanks to Mr. Luescher, who reads our Blogazoidal, for the heads up!
2. Our own Prentiss Berry (EHOP) has informed us that the Dick Lane Velodrome in Atlanta has posted dates for their Beginner Classes. This class is mandatory for any cyclist who wants to ride/train/race on their velodrome. The dates are: 3.12-13.2012 and 7.30-31.2012. You can contact EHOP, who races on the track every summer, for more details or go on line at: www.dicklanevelodrome.com.
3. There are less than 8 weeks until our first WERAD of 2012! That's great news for those of you who have been out on the roads...not so good news for anyone putting in more time on the sofa than the machine! However, don't fret yourself and eat another bag of comfort food, rather get out and ride! We have many opportunities to tune up the motor and those flabby pistons with our cast of unusual characters, including tomorrow and Sunday. Check out the Rides Calendar for more details.
4. Speaking of Rides Calendar, the Firestone and Summit Saturday rides will now be on the West Florida Wheelmen Calendar. Yes, that's right, the Pensacola cycling community is getting much stronger! We now have headliners like State Champions and an (annual) ride across Florida as well as a growing voice in City Hall. (Can you say traffic cones on Langley?) This is all great news for the community as a whole and all cyclists in particular!!! Strength in numbers...and therefore I am appealing to all area cyclists to join with me in supporting a cycling friendly region by becoming a member of the West Florida Wheelmen. This flagship group has a very progressive thinking Board this year and looks to move cycling into the 21st century by unifying all the regional groups into one well represented strong voice for cycling. Please consider your participation.
5. Speaking of the WFW Board, or more accurately, the Board meeting. On our Saturday ride at the rest stop, a brief report will be available for those interested in the direction of cycling in WFW, Firestone&Summit and our community.
And now, for our ever popular 3rd Semi-Annual Blogazoidal Contest!
First the rules:
Send all answers to rjgravesjr@cox.net. All emails must be received by no later than 11:59pm on January 25, 2012.
Only one answer for each question will be accepted. Don't forget to answer the Tie Breaker as well. More than one answer per question will result in disqualification. Make sure you answer is clear and understandable. Example; Who is the President of the USA? Answer: Fred Flintstone. (Of course this is a wrong answer, but gives you an idea of how to answer clearly and understandably)
Remember, this is a fun contest and therefore there are no avenues in which to appeal or question the results. (You'll just have to trust me on this one.) If you win, you win, if you lose, you lose! Results of the winners will be posted on Friday, January 27, 2012. Good luck!
Thanks to our awesome sponsor for this time around, Tom and Brian at Cycle Sports on Palafox in Pensacola for the gift card prizes. Great guys, great shop! And speaking of prizes, they are as follows:
1st place.....$20.00 gift card
2nd place....$10.00 gift card
3rd place....$5.00 gift card
Here are the questions:
1. Our Blogazoidal has been viewed by thousands over the 17 months it has been in existence. In fact, we have surpassed 20,000 hits! On what date in January 2012, did we arrive at the 20,000 total views?
2. The post "A Weekend For Ssores", written in 2010, is still the most popular post ever with over 200 hits. However, from the 4 posts listed below, what was the most popular post written in 2011?
A. "The Lillian Loop Never Disappoints"
B. "The Twisted Crusher And The Crushed Vortex"
C. "Too Much Horsepower?!"
D. "Left Lane's Lament"
3. As you can imagine, of the Pages, (not Posts), the Rides Calendar is our most viewed page with over several thousand hits! Of the other pages, which one is the most popular with a number of hits close to 1,000?
A. About Our Group
B. Speed (Pace) Chart
C. Inclement Weather Ride Policy
D. Directory Of Nicknames and Acronyms
4. Tie Breaker: How many total miles did the Vortex ride on his bike in 2011?
Good luck everyone!!!
See you tomorrow morning at 8am at Firestone and Summit for our 3 Amigos Loop! This 40 to 45 miler has a great variety of roads and characters. We'll have one rest stop on this moderately paced ride. The weather looks fantastic with temps in the mid 60s and a slight chance of rain!
See you in the morning and as always, I'll...
See you out on the road,
Bob
I just love this contest, don't you? I wish I could be a contestant and try my luck at winning the (big) money! In fact, maybe I should. I wonder if I would win? Think anyone would notice I entered?
But before we get to the questions and acknowledgment of our awesome sponsor this time around, we have a few housekeeping items of importance. I receive several of these type of informational emails and texts every month. Some to be sure are valid and important for the cycling community while others are, shall we say, less than Blogazoidal worthy. I try to filter so you don't have to. (You can thank me later.)
Housekeeping Items:
1. Last week I heard from Michael Luescher with Volkert. As some of you may know, Volkert is the engineering firm that oversees several highway construction projects for Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). Mr. Luescher informed me that starting in April of this year that some of the bridges of the causeway to Pace will be replaced. These projects will last about 4 years. This could put a damper to all our around the bay loops. Our thanks to Mr. Luescher, who reads our Blogazoidal, for the heads up!
2. Our own Prentiss Berry (EHOP) has informed us that the Dick Lane Velodrome in Atlanta has posted dates for their Beginner Classes. This class is mandatory for any cyclist who wants to ride/train/race on their velodrome. The dates are: 3.12-13.2012 and 7.30-31.2012. You can contact EHOP, who races on the track every summer, for more details or go on line at: www.dicklanevelodrome.com.
3. There are less than 8 weeks until our first WERAD of 2012! That's great news for those of you who have been out on the roads...not so good news for anyone putting in more time on the sofa than the machine! However, don't fret yourself and eat another bag of comfort food, rather get out and ride! We have many opportunities to tune up the motor and those flabby pistons with our cast of unusual characters, including tomorrow and Sunday. Check out the Rides Calendar for more details.
4. Speaking of Rides Calendar, the Firestone and Summit Saturday rides will now be on the West Florida Wheelmen Calendar. Yes, that's right, the Pensacola cycling community is getting much stronger! We now have headliners like State Champions and an (annual) ride across Florida as well as a growing voice in City Hall. (Can you say traffic cones on Langley?) This is all great news for the community as a whole and all cyclists in particular!!! Strength in numbers...and therefore I am appealing to all area cyclists to join with me in supporting a cycling friendly region by becoming a member of the West Florida Wheelmen. This flagship group has a very progressive thinking Board this year and looks to move cycling into the 21st century by unifying all the regional groups into one well represented strong voice for cycling. Please consider your participation.
5. Speaking of the WFW Board, or more accurately, the Board meeting. On our Saturday ride at the rest stop, a brief report will be available for those interested in the direction of cycling in WFW, Firestone&Summit and our community.
And now, for our ever popular 3rd Semi-Annual Blogazoidal Contest!
First the rules:
Send all answers to rjgravesjr@cox.net. All emails must be received by no later than 11:59pm on January 25, 2012.
Only one answer for each question will be accepted. Don't forget to answer the Tie Breaker as well. More than one answer per question will result in disqualification. Make sure you answer is clear and understandable. Example; Who is the President of the USA? Answer: Fred Flintstone. (Of course this is a wrong answer, but gives you an idea of how to answer clearly and understandably)
Remember, this is a fun contest and therefore there are no avenues in which to appeal or question the results. (You'll just have to trust me on this one.) If you win, you win, if you lose, you lose! Results of the winners will be posted on Friday, January 27, 2012. Good luck!
Thanks to our awesome sponsor for this time around, Tom and Brian at Cycle Sports on Palafox in Pensacola for the gift card prizes. Great guys, great shop! And speaking of prizes, they are as follows:
1st place.....$20.00 gift card
2nd place....$10.00 gift card
3rd place....$5.00 gift card
Here are the questions:
1. Our Blogazoidal has been viewed by thousands over the 17 months it has been in existence. In fact, we have surpassed 20,000 hits! On what date in January 2012, did we arrive at the 20,000 total views?
2. The post "A Weekend For Ssores", written in 2010, is still the most popular post ever with over 200 hits. However, from the 4 posts listed below, what was the most popular post written in 2011?
A. "The Lillian Loop Never Disappoints"
B. "The Twisted Crusher And The Crushed Vortex"
C. "Too Much Horsepower?!"
D. "Left Lane's Lament"
3. As you can imagine, of the Pages, (not Posts), the Rides Calendar is our most viewed page with over several thousand hits! Of the other pages, which one is the most popular with a number of hits close to 1,000?
A. About Our Group
B. Speed (Pace) Chart
C. Inclement Weather Ride Policy
D. Directory Of Nicknames and Acronyms
4. Tie Breaker: How many total miles did the Vortex ride on his bike in 2011?
Good luck everyone!!!
See you tomorrow morning at 8am at Firestone and Summit for our 3 Amigos Loop! This 40 to 45 miler has a great variety of roads and characters. We'll have one rest stop on this moderately paced ride. The weather looks fantastic with temps in the mid 60s and a slight chance of rain!
See you in the morning and as always, I'll...
See you out on the road,
Bob
Monday, January 16, 2012
Fruit Flies and A Fried Forest
The chilly but sunny ride this past Saturday was one of the most enjoyable winter rides this rider has ridden in quite some time. The temp was hovering around the low 40s at start time, but that didn't seem to dampen the spirits of the chosen few. The group, though smaller than normal for a Saturday, was hearty and appeared quite game for the day's proceedings. The pace was civil as this Band of Bozos (BOBs) headed out for the modified Pine Forest Loop.
In fact, this rider has seen more combative attitude from the lovely Mrs Graves as she battles the pesky little fruit flies in her kitchen at the palatial Graves Estate. With insect spray in hand she runs around barking out, "Reveal thyself you wretched bugs!" chasing the little pests around the "no fly zone" that is her kitchen. Perhaps several of you that partake of a more healthy diet including fresh fruits have had a similar problem with these near microscopic flying vermin. When I mentioned this problem to the group the other day, several expressed that they had a similar battle. Left Lane just said, "Yeah, I got those beer flies."
I have no idea how they got into the lovely Mrs Graves' kitchen. However, I envision the tiny creatures hanging out at the bottom of the fruit shelf in the produce section at the local market, awaiting a ride home on a melon by some unsuspecting shopper with a kind face...like the lovely Mrs Graves. (Reminds me of several riders I know who, when seeing Don "The Devastator" Davis pass them in the paceline heading to the front, jump on his wheel like fruit flies on a melon. Sorry about the melon metaphor Don.) I digress...
Perhaps we should hear from the Left Lane on his unique perspective of Saturday's romp on the roads to Pine Forest before this blogulation goes any further south. (Hey, how come it's always south? Why isn't it before this heads any further east or north? Northeast?! Hmmm...that one could stick.) Here's the view from the Left Lane:
Well the turnout was kind of disappointing for such a beautiful Saturday morning in January. Yes maybe a little colder than it has been lately, but still for this time of year….Come On!!! Temperature was around 44 degrees at the start but minimal wind it was really a perfect day for a ride. The hearty few that showed up were Vortex, Crusher, OnePrincess (don’t ask)Prenti , Johnny Bugno, Nestordamus, and the Left Lane. As we queued up for the start the group opted for a version of the Pine Forest Loop rather than the scheduled around the sound circuit.
See you out on the road,
Bob
In fact, this rider has seen more combative attitude from the lovely Mrs Graves as she battles the pesky little fruit flies in her kitchen at the palatial Graves Estate. With insect spray in hand she runs around barking out, "Reveal thyself you wretched bugs!" chasing the little pests around the "no fly zone" that is her kitchen. Perhaps several of you that partake of a more healthy diet including fresh fruits have had a similar problem with these near microscopic flying vermin. When I mentioned this problem to the group the other day, several expressed that they had a similar battle. Left Lane just said, "Yeah, I got those beer flies."
I have no idea how they got into the lovely Mrs Graves' kitchen. However, I envision the tiny creatures hanging out at the bottom of the fruit shelf in the produce section at the local market, awaiting a ride home on a melon by some unsuspecting shopper with a kind face...like the lovely Mrs Graves. (Reminds me of several riders I know who, when seeing Don "The Devastator" Davis pass them in the paceline heading to the front, jump on his wheel like fruit flies on a melon. Sorry about the melon metaphor Don.) I digress...
Perhaps we should hear from the Left Lane on his unique perspective of Saturday's romp on the roads to Pine Forest before this blogulation goes any further south. (Hey, how come it's always south? Why isn't it before this heads any further east or north? Northeast?! Hmmm...that one could stick.) Here's the view from the Left Lane:
Well the turnout was kind of disappointing for such a beautiful Saturday morning in January. Yes maybe a little colder than it has been lately, but still for this time of year….Come On!!! Temperature was around 44 degrees at the start but minimal wind it was really a perfect day for a ride. The hearty few that showed up were Vortex, Crusher, One
Without some of the usual hammerheads (who will remain nameless) it looked like it was going to be a fairly easy paced ride today which was fine with me after last week’s around the bay loop. We headed out taking the Jackson St trek and heading toward the Pine Forest Loop and a stop a Starbucks. Few antics and a very nice pace as we headed to the hammerfest of the route alongside the interstate where the pace finally kicked up a notch with Nestor doing a nice pull and then Foxinator going to the front with the hammer down to “soften up” the peloton, and then Johnny Bugno doing the leadout for the last 500 yards or so with Left Lane on his wheel . I had assumed someone was behind me ready to pass Johnny and me but when I looked back no one was there. I was going to let Johnny have the sprint points but when I thought that Hmmmm Left Lane had never taken this prize having led out too early several times but this time JB was too early and Left Lane easily passed him and took the sprint points!!
We cruised up PF with Nestor and the Left Lane leading the way to the break at Starbucks. A perfect day for a break at SB’s where most of the riders had normal coffees but Nestordamus was having High Test…a Triple Tall Latte and predicting the future that this special brew would spell the difference on the final sprint on the Langley Maygarden Loop!!
We had a great break and discussed the upcoming spring season and considering monthly time trials, a cross Florida ride and other issues. Ahh, eventually we had to remount our machines and ride on. We had a nice ride in on the 10 ½ mile / River Gardens route.
We cruised on up Johnson with Left Lane toying with a breakaway as he led the group up ninth avenue but the lights were not friendly this day and the group was together as we reached the Langley Maygarden Loop. Left Lane led the group down Langley with Nestor taking over the pull on Maygarden and the lead group including Bugno, Left Lane and Prentis and the Vortex and Crusher still not going for sprint points. Nestor pulled us to the turn at the air terminal and then Left Lane took over the pull through the Ess turn where Johnny Bugno took over the pull. Well Nestordamus who had been keeping his powder dry (as the Triple Latte charged his batteries) all day then jumped out to try a break and JB chased valiantly but could not grab the wheel of the Argentine Cruise Missile who rolled into an easy win and this week’s Braggin Rights .
Thanks Left Lane for yet another unique commentary...and this time from first place across the line at the Fried Forest Sprint! You should have treated everyone at Starbucks! I mean, this may be a once in a life time event, we should have celebrated! Oh well, you can treat next time. (Just a heads up for everyone, Left Lane is treating at the rest stop this Saturday! Don't miss out!)See you out on the road,
Bob
Friday, January 13, 2012
Another Chilly Saturday!
Tomorrow morning will be yet another chilly Saturday and therefore another opportunity to try out your winter riding software, (clothes). The weather forecast, other than temperature, looks really good. There will be a light breeze out of the northwest and sunshine a plenty! Hey, could be a lot worse...it is January you know!
Now, since the temp is 40 degrees at 8am, I have been advised to move the start time to 9am where it should be a balmy 44 degrees. Now I know for you hardcore winter riders this seems a bit ridiculous, but consider the other riders...4 degrees is 4 degrees! Besides, by the time we're finishing up it will be in the low 50s! Dude, a stinking heat wave!
In terms of start location and route; the start location will remain the same: Fish and Wildlife. However, let's see where the group wants to ride in the morning. The route on the Rides Calendar is the Soundside Loop. Those of us who show up will decide what route we want to do because the breeze will be out of the northwest...perhaps a Starbucks stop would be in order?! Works for me!
See you in the morning at 9am at Fish and Wildlife!
Bob
PS Great conversation in the comments of the previous post. Check it out!
Now, since the temp is 40 degrees at 8am, I have been advised to move the start time to 9am where it should be a balmy 44 degrees. Now I know for you hardcore winter riders this seems a bit ridiculous, but consider the other riders...4 degrees is 4 degrees! Besides, by the time we're finishing up it will be in the low 50s! Dude, a stinking heat wave!
In terms of start location and route; the start location will remain the same: Fish and Wildlife. However, let's see where the group wants to ride in the morning. The route on the Rides Calendar is the Soundside Loop. Those of us who show up will decide what route we want to do because the breeze will be out of the northwest...perhaps a Starbucks stop would be in order?! Works for me!
See you in the morning at 9am at Fish and Wildlife!
Bob
PS Great conversation in the comments of the previous post. Check it out!
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
That Was A Great Weekend Of Riding!
What a fantastic weekend of riding that was! Saturday we headed out in the fog for the awesome Around The Bay Loop. For the first time ever, we had two routes; the standard or long route and the new short route. Both routes were fabulous according to the groups that rode them. Personally, riding the new short route was a blast. I really enjoyed the new roads and the riders that went on that route were evenly matched in terms of fitness so we chugged along at a steady pace. We will definitely do that one again!
The infamous Gargoyle Point Bridge was kind to us as well. In fact, I have never had such an easy crossing since we have been riding the beast for the last 8 years! Perfect weather for a perfect January ride! We had hoped (planned) to regroup in Gulf Breeze at the second rest stop with the long route group. But after waiting about 10 minutes or so, Big Motor would have no more of it stating in his British dialect, "Cheery O" and was off. (I think I know where they got the name for that cereal.) So, we all headed for home. When I pulled into the garage I had 55 miles. Great ride!
But before I steal too much of his thunder, I'll let the Left Lane share his perspective of the rides this past weekend. Sounds like he too enjoyed these winter jaunts. So, here's the view from the Left Lane:
Great turnout for the group favorite Around the Bay Loop. Riding were most of the regulars including Danimal, Happy, Bugno, Nestor, Dos Prentii, Retro Dave, Big Motor, Left Lane, Dave 4, Doug, Bad Mayo, Vortex, and Crusher. Think that’s everyone. Robert came by at the start…after crashing last week and finishing the ride he woke up the next day and realized he had a banged up hip and pulled groin muscle. Amazing that he was able to finish last week and hopefully will be back in riding form soon. Weather was absolutely great with only a little difficulty with the fog going across the fill and a not too strong head wind for the long slog from Bagdad to the Gargoyle Point Bridge.
See you out on the road,
Bob
The infamous Gargoyle Point Bridge was kind to us as well. In fact, I have never had such an easy crossing since we have been riding the beast for the last 8 years! Perfect weather for a perfect January ride! We had hoped (planned) to regroup in Gulf Breeze at the second rest stop with the long route group. But after waiting about 10 minutes or so, Big Motor would have no more of it stating in his British dialect, "Cheery O" and was off. (I think I know where they got the name for that cereal.) So, we all headed for home. When I pulled into the garage I had 55 miles. Great ride!
But before I steal too much of his thunder, I'll let the Left Lane share his perspective of the rides this past weekend. Sounds like he too enjoyed these winter jaunts. So, here's the view from the Left Lane:
Great turnout for the group favorite Around the Bay Loop. Riding were most of the regulars including Danimal, Happy, Bugno, Nestor, Dos Prentii, Retro Dave, Big Motor, Left Lane, Dave 4, Doug, Bad Mayo, Vortex, and Crusher. Think that’s everyone. Robert came by at the start…after crashing last week and finishing the ride he woke up the next day and realized he had a banged up hip and pulled groin muscle. Amazing that he was able to finish last week and hopefully will be back in riding form soon. Weather was absolutely great with only a little difficulty with the fog going across the fill and a not too strong head wind for the long slog from Bagdad to the Gargoyle Point Bridge.
As usual the group started out fairly slow so everyone could get all there yakking done as we headed up Spanish Trail and Creighton, and the pace picking up as usual as we hit Johnson heading for Ellison Industrial Park with Danimal putting down the pace. We regrouped at Davis and began the hammerfest toward the fill. Having been sick all week, I was determined to avoid pushing it too hard early on to avoid later bonkage, so when a group separated going up the overpass to the fill gapping me by around 100 yards, I figured I would just join the next group as they caught up to me on the downhill side and be in the second group. Well leading that next group was the Vortex who said “come on boys” as he went by and he put it down hard and we quickly reeled in the lead group as we hammered through the fog to the end of the fill.
As we regrouped at Chet’s it was apparent that the worst of the fog was over and we continued on through Pace and past Spencer Field. At this point the still recovering Vortex, Crusher and the long absent Big Motor took the short route and were never seen again. I had toyed with short routing this day but was feeling pretty good so I continued on with the rest toward Hamilton Bridge Road. This is definitely one of the most fun legs that we ride. With the long downhill section reaching speeds in excess of 35 mph for an extended time and then the long uphill as we head to our first break of the ride. And to our surprise the road had been freshly paved in its entirety.
The mountain goats as usual gapped us Clydesdales and near Clydesdales (Bugno) on the long uphill section. But we were not that far back and I turned to Bugno and wondered that with the fresh pavement the uphill did not seem as steep and hard as usual and in fact we were still in the 15mph range as we crested the top and Hammered on gaining on the lead group until ahead we were slowed as we passed an old truck chugging back to speed as it topped the hill. We rolled into the break not long after the leaders and tanked up for the long haul to Gargoyle Point via Bagdad.
As the boys headed to Milton there was a Big Hoagie citing. We pulled into a PL briefly to see if he was joining us but then he was gone. Called Hoagie later and he was heading to the Milton bike trail for a solo ride. We rolled on through Bagdad where Bugno, Doug, and Bad Mayo took a shorter route and the rest of us hammered on.
I soon found out I should have short routed as well….around 4 or 5 miles into what was becoming a hammerfest in the 22-23mph range this old fat guys legs said “No Mas” and I cracked off the back to ride solo the last 6 or 7 miles or so to the GP bridge (This long flat stretch is always difficult for me combined with fighting a cold/sinus infection and not riding at all this week). Thanks to Retro for coming back and offering a pull but I was pretty toasted and told him I had to just ride at mine own pace.
I finally chugged into the Toll Plaza Last Place Left Lane where the two groups had reunited and waited for me. I rejoined but was only able to hold on for a mile or so and near the bridge hump Johnny Bugno fell back to me and gave me a pull the rest of the way to our Break at the Walmart Gas Station. Thanks JB.
This is where my story ends. I chose to take the shortest route home straight down 98 whereas the group headed down to the Sound to take the back roads home. Luckily, the wind was favorable and I got my legs back enough to cruise home in the 18-20mph range solo. Talked to Bugno the next day at the Sunday ride and he said the group had a great ride in the rest of the way. I ended with around 61 miles and I would think the group probably added a few miles taking the longer way home. Great Ride for this time of year.
Sunday 1-8-2011
We had a surprising turnout for the Sunday Group ride of the Manzierre Loop…5 riders!! When I got to F&S none other than the long absent CCC (Coolio) was there waiting. Prentis than rode in and informed us that the Bloginator and he who maintains the calendar (Vortex) thought the ride was at 3:00 instead of 2:30 and that he would be around 15 minutes late. Gave us a chance to chat and I called Bugno who lives nearby to convince him to come out as well.
So we motored on for our parade lap of the Manzierre Loop. Typically we ride at a fairly easy pace on Sunday with a few unannounced sprints and the Viaduct Climb thrown in. Coolio loves this ride so he can kick The Left Lane’s butt going up the Viaduct. It has been close thought the last few times. But alas, after inquiring of the Vortex if he thought Coolio could take the Left Lane this day and getting an affirmative from the Vortex who will take every chance to stir the pot (as will the LeftLane), the CCC lacking his usual bravado and confidence begged out and short rided heading for home after we went around the mall. Hope we do not have to wait so long for our next Coolio sighting...he is always good for BlogFodder!!
Anyway we carried on with The Vortex demonstrating the old GM axiom..”There is no substitue for horsepower!” in taking the first unannounced sprint. But true to form, with the CCC gone, the Left Lane led the group up the Viaduct as usual. We had a nice ride the rest of the way including a lap up a parking garage downtown and a cruise out to the Bayfront for a quick break before heading home with a nice tailwind.
A great weekend of riding. Till next time.
The Left Lane
See you out on the road,
Bob
Thursday, January 5, 2012
Some News About Saturday...and A View From the Left Lane
This Saturday could be the best ever winter ride for the Firestone and Summit peloton! We are doing our New Year's Resolution Ride or as is more commonly known as the awesome Around The Bay Loop! This ride will make you want to keep those New Year's resolutions that you resolved to keep just a few days ago. You know, like, "I resolve to ride everyday the temperature is above 40 degrees." Or, "I promise to lose those 25 pounds I promised to lose the last 12 years." And don't forget Crusher's favorite, "I vow to tear up yet another bottom bracket one way or another." Well, this is just the ride for anyone making any resolutions this New Year!
And just for fun, we have mapped out yet another amazing route! Yes, that's right cycling fans, a brand new route that goes Around The Bay! "No way?!" "Yes way, my homies...way way! Whaaat?! Now here are the details:
The Around the Bay Ride will have the standard route which is about 60 to 65 miles. The "new" short route will be around 45 to 50 miles. The two groups will start together and stay together at a moderate pace until East Spencerfield Road in Pace. At this point the long route group will turn north and cut across Hamilton Bridge Road to Milton like we always do on the standard route. The short route group will turn south and meander southeast to Avalon Road. Both groups will set their own pace after the separation point and will have a rest stop. The second rest stop is the Raceway at the south end of Garcon Point Bridge in Gulf Breeze and will be the regrouping point. Then the two groups will ride together back to Pensacola on the standard route.
What an absolutely fantastic ride...and with the weather forecast for mostly sunny skies with temps in the 60s this could be the most epic winter ride this cast of unusual characters has ever ridden! Come on somebody!!! This beat up old rider can't wait! The best news is The Danamal is the Ride Captain for the long route group and The Vortex has agreed to lead the short bus group! (Oops...I mean short route group) Dude, what could be finer...Oh yeah baby! You are not going to want to miss this ride!!!
And speaking of epic rides; last Saturday's ride was almost that...according to the view from the Left Lane! He says that it was...well, I'll let him say in his unique way. Here's tis:
Saturday 12-31-11 Ride
Thanks Left Lane, great blogification! Can't wait to read next week's commentary...as only from the twisted view of the distorted mind of the one and only Left Lane. (Thankfully there's only one!) I'll definitely see him out on the road! How about you? Come on! You'll be glad you did! Especially if you were serious about those New Year's resolutions you committed yourself to just a few days ago. Remember?
See you out on the road,
Bob
And just for fun, we have mapped out yet another amazing route! Yes, that's right cycling fans, a brand new route that goes Around The Bay! "No way?!" "Yes way, my homies...way way! Whaaat?! Now here are the details:
The Around the Bay Ride will have the standard route which is about 60 to 65 miles. The "new" short route will be around 45 to 50 miles. The two groups will start together and stay together at a moderate pace until East Spencerfield Road in Pace. At this point the long route group will turn north and cut across Hamilton Bridge Road to Milton like we always do on the standard route. The short route group will turn south and meander southeast to Avalon Road. Both groups will set their own pace after the separation point and will have a rest stop. The second rest stop is the Raceway at the south end of Garcon Point Bridge in Gulf Breeze and will be the regrouping point. Then the two groups will ride together back to Pensacola on the standard route.
What an absolutely fantastic ride...and with the weather forecast for mostly sunny skies with temps in the 60s this could be the most epic winter ride this cast of unusual characters has ever ridden! Come on somebody!!! This beat up old rider can't wait! The best news is The Danamal is the Ride Captain for the long route group and The Vortex has agreed to lead the short bus group! (Oops...I mean short route group) Dude, what could be finer...Oh yeah baby! You are not going to want to miss this ride!!!
And speaking of epic rides; last Saturday's ride was almost that...according to the view from the Left Lane! He says that it was...well, I'll let him say in his unique way. Here's tis:
Saturday 12-31-11 Ride
With mild temperatures and this being the last ride of 2011 a large turnout was anticipated for this Saturday’s ride. Not to disappoint most or our regulars and some of our irregulars showed up. Riding were Danimal, Johnny Bugno, Dos Prentis, Vortex, Foxinator , The Daves, Retro & Bad Mayonnaise, Big Hoagie, The Left Lane,Tan, Robert, and coming out of hibernation, The Big Motor, Keith Irwin and Count Fishbone.
As we queued up for the start, conditions were quite foggy but wind was minimal and the temperatures were in the 55 to 60 degree range so it looked like a great day for a ride especially for the middle of winter. Our loop today would take us West for either the Innerrarity Loop or the Perdido Key Loop.
As we got ready to Start, Retro was over on the side of the parking lot at Fish & Wildlife assisting a young lady with a flat tire repair. When I asked Dave what was up and he told me I said he was a Good Samaritan and Dave started going on about how he was trying to make up for the bad deeds…..etc., and I said he would have to change a lot of tires to make the proper amends.
Well we got going and the fog was pretty nasty with everyone’s glasses getting wet limiting visibility and Prenti Snr flatting a couple miles out on Jackson. We got Prenti fixed and headed out. We did our usual Hammerfest down Jackson with Danimal dishing out the pain and then headed to Lillian where Foxinator went to the front and put in a nice pull and the Prentis and the Left Lane doing the rest of the work. As we got to the light at Blue Angel & Dog Track Robert did a 1 and ½ with a twist and stuck the landing …actually just tipped over from a stop but was not hurt and we continued on down Dog Track to Gulf Beach Highway.
Prenti the younger broke away as we neared GB Highway for the first unannounced sprint of the day and had it in hand when he sat up but “Sneak Attack” Retro Dave had other ideas and slammed it down to pass the Prenti and hold him off for the prize. As we reached GB Highway Vortex, Foxinator & Big Motor opted to short ride and headed home as the rest of the group went on.
Conditions were near perfect and the Peloton was hammering toward Innerarity at around 23mph when the peloton was first distracted by some kids yelling out the window at us and then some garbage cans parked in the bike lane which broke up the momentum of the peloton whereupon Tan bumped wheels with Hoagie causing him to go down and also taking Robert out as well. As I heard the commotion from up front I glanced back and briefly saw Tan taking a dive to the right and as I turned around expected serious injuries. Luckily though he only had a scraped shin and Robert had no apparent injuries. An Escambia County Sheriff’s Deputy was right behind us and stopped traffic and said he had the whole thing on video. We need to see if we can get a copy.
After a few minor bike repairs and talking about taking it easy to the light at Innerarity the peloton with Danimal putting down the hammer SPED away to Innerarity with Istvann saying something about there was going to be no whining like little girls... Truly no Love in the Peloton!!! We sort of regrouped at the store and opted for the Perdido Key loop…up over the bridge and toward Gulf Shores before heading back under and over the bridge. A nice little loop which we took at a reasonable pace with Prenti Jr & Danimal leading the charge up the bridge and to the break on the other side. We all regrouped at the break and headed back home on GB Highway. With Bugno, Hoagie & Left Lane doing pulls we were cruising at around 18-22 with the hoped for tailwind not materializing. The pace picked up as usual as we neared the Dub Blum Sprint with Danimal leading the group, Left Lane breaking out too early and Retro Dave taking the prize…Ho Hum …business as usual.
After another regrouping we headed toward the legendary Fried Twinkie Sprint. Dana & the Prenti wanted none of this and went straight for home while the rest of the group took the turn into Navy Point and the treacherous FTS on roads of which many are under repair or need repair. As we turned out toward the water Fishbone, Hoagie, Bugno & Left Lane separated and hammered toward the Twinkie Bridge. With Fishbone doing most of the work until the last ½ mile, the Left Lane put it down hard and gapped the others going into the final 2 turns to claim his first Twinkie in quite some time.
Another regrouping at Navy Blvd and we headed for PCC and the Barancas Bridge. The same four were out front again with the rest taking the short cut to the bridge. Count Fishbone led the group up the bridge for the last prize of the day before heading home to North Hill. Left Lane, Hoagie & Bugno then separated out front for the final stint down Bayfront where we rolled in around 11:00 AM with close to 50 miles at around an 18mph average.
We waited in Richey’s parking lot for a while but when no one else showed repaired up to Left Lane’s Manor for the usual after ride refreshments supplemented with a few room temperature Guiness Stouts the Left Lane had been hoarding.
Another fantastic ride and we talked about joining the Wheelmen ride to Ft Pickens tomorrow. Starts at 11:00 AM from Bagleheads parking lot. Should be a great ride at “Hangover” Pace so it would be great to get a bunch of the F&S group out. I will be there for sure.
Till next time
The Left Lane
Thanks Left Lane, great blogification! Can't wait to read next week's commentary...as only from the twisted view of the distorted mind of the one and only Left Lane. (Thankfully there's only one!) I'll definitely see him out on the road! How about you? Come on! You'll be glad you did! Especially if you were serious about those New Year's resolutions you committed yourself to just a few days ago. Remember?
See you out on the road,
Bob
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