I've heard from several of the COUCs who still want to ride today! The weather forecast calls for clearing skies starting around noon. At 1pm it's showing partly cloudy skies with only a 10% chance of rain. Therefore, we will be riding!!!
Meet at 1pm at Maygarden and Summit for an abbreviated loop. We'll try to get in a 40 miler or so. Most of the guys need to be back by 4pm or so. Maybe a shorter Around The Bay or Pine Forest Loop or UWF/Scenic Hills. We can decide at 1pm. (Assuming it stops raining!) See you there and as always...
See you out on the road,
Bob
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Around The Bay Postponed
As most of you have guessed from looking out the window, we have postponed this morning's ride due to the rainy weather. (I sent out a mass email around 6am indicating the postponement.)
I have heard from several of you via email, text, (thankfully no phone calls), that you are still interested in a ride today if it clears up. In fact, the weather map in motion appears to indicate this wet weather moving through shortly and maybe we could have a 9am start. Let's give it another hour or so to determine how things are shaping up weather wise and then I'll throw out a mass email and a Blogazoidal post with a new start time.
We may not get in a full 65 miler today, but we could still ride!
See you out on the (wet) road,
Bob
I have heard from several of you via email, text, (thankfully no phone calls), that you are still interested in a ride today if it clears up. In fact, the weather map in motion appears to indicate this wet weather moving through shortly and maybe we could have a 9am start. Let's give it another hour or so to determine how things are shaping up weather wise and then I'll throw out a mass email and a Blogazoidal post with a new start time.
We may not get in a full 65 miler today, but we could still ride!
See you out on the (wet) road,
Bob
Friday, March 30, 2012
Around The Bay & Hammer Zones!
I received a telephone call from the Danamal yesterday regarding what was posted this past Tuesday as well as the antics on last Saturday's long group ride. Evidently, the pace was a bit frisky and as the Danamal was the Ride Captain he felt compelled to let everyone know that he too does not have a magical speed thing-a-mo-bob to keep those who want to go fast from doing so. Now, let me see if I got this right...even though his name isn't Bob, the Danamal doesn't have a magical thingy either?
Hey, do any of you guys have one of those?
Regardless, we are here to clarify that neither the Danamal nor the Vortex have a magical thingy that controls the speed of the peloton. Yes, I know, Coolio allegedly uses Vivax Assist, but that isn't a magical thingy either. (Just wanted to mention that for those of you who may be considering a purchase of Vivax.)
Well, glad we cleared that up, aren't you?!
Now, onto the business at hand! Tomorrow morning we are headed out on our group fave Around The Bay Loop. This 65 miler has it all including flats, hills, 8 bridges and two scheduled rest stops! Come on out! Last week we had a huge peloton and from all reports it appears that way again this Saturday! Therefore, we will have a two group format. Everyone will stay together under a moderate pace until the first rest stop. Please note: The shorter route is only 5-6 miles shorter than the longer route. Also...
We are implementing a new plan for our Saturday rides! Each ride will have designated "Hammer Zones". (HZ) These zones are for those who think the general pace is too slow, want a harder workout or had too much caffeine. The HZs will be announced before each ride and have no speed limit. At the end of the HZ, riders will soft pedal to allow the riders who did not participate in the HZ to regroup with those who wanted to hammer. Most HZs will be a few miles just before a scheduled rest stop. This will allow a natural regrouping without hindering those who wanted to go fast. Once out of the HZ, the whole group will proceed at the advertised pace for the ride. (Tomorrow's pace is Moderate.)
All agreed? Great!
Now here are the designated Hammer Zones for tomorrow's ride:
1. Starting at the top of the Escambia River Bridge across the Causeway to the right turn at Chet's Restaurant. Once you turn right, soft pedal until regrouping.
2. Starting at the right turn at the bottom of the hill on Hamilton Bridge Road until the rest stop at the Tom Thumb at Glover Road.
3. Starting at the Toll Booth across Gargoyle Point Bridge to the rest stop at the Wal-Mart gas station.
4. Starting at the top of the hump on 3 Mile Bridge to Ritchey's East where we will partake of the 3L! (Left Lane's Libations)
"I can't remember all those!" Quit the sissifying! Print this page and mount it to your bars or just remember the HZs are (1) the Causeway and just before our (3) stops.
Other than these 4 Hammer Zones, please maintain a moderate pace for the length of the entire ride. ( If you have a question regarding what's Moderate, please see the Pace Chart at the bottom of the Blogazoidal.) This will enable others who may not be as beastly as you to stay with the group on this longer ride. If you are feeling like Quadzilla tomorrow, that's great! But, others may not be feeling as strong. Do them a great service and go to the front, while maintaining the moderate pace, and do a longer pull. You'll get the workout and kudos you were hoping for while helping the group to stay together. And, hey you guys that aren't having a banner day...no whining! Instead, just do short pulls or no pulls at all! Come on man!
Now when we arrive at a Hammer Zone, you hammerheads romp and stomp until your heart rate monitor blows a circuit! You guys that want the moderate pace, stay put! In fact, if I see you hammering, I'm going to stick a gel pack in your front spokes! (Maybe I should bring a whole box.) Everyone use a little self control and we'll have another fantastic F&S ride!!! I, for one, can't wait! (I may even throw down in one or two of those new Hammer Zones just to blow the funk out of the carburator!)
Seriously, none of us has a magical thingy that can control speed. (Although, Crusher has a remote control that changes traffic lights!) Therefore, we need a plan, a format that those of differing levels of fitness can ride together as one peloton on a longer ride.
A simple plan:
1. Maintain a moderate pace for all
2. Stronger riders do more work, weaker riders less work
3. Hammer Zones
We'll keep one eye on the weather forecast for you as it appears there may be a slight chance of rain in the morning. If so, we'll send out a post and/or a mass email to let everyone know what we're doing. For now, everything looks great for our Around The Bay Loop!
See you at Maygarden and Summit at 7am! And, I'll...
See you out on the road,
Bob
Hey, do any of you guys have one of those?
Regardless, we are here to clarify that neither the Danamal nor the Vortex have a magical thingy that controls the speed of the peloton. Yes, I know, Coolio allegedly uses Vivax Assist, but that isn't a magical thingy either. (Just wanted to mention that for those of you who may be considering a purchase of Vivax.)
Well, glad we cleared that up, aren't you?!
Now, onto the business at hand! Tomorrow morning we are headed out on our group fave Around The Bay Loop. This 65 miler has it all including flats, hills, 8 bridges and two scheduled rest stops! Come on out! Last week we had a huge peloton and from all reports it appears that way again this Saturday! Therefore, we will have a two group format. Everyone will stay together under a moderate pace until the first rest stop. Please note: The shorter route is only 5-6 miles shorter than the longer route. Also...
We are implementing a new plan for our Saturday rides! Each ride will have designated "Hammer Zones". (HZ) These zones are for those who think the general pace is too slow, want a harder workout or had too much caffeine. The HZs will be announced before each ride and have no speed limit. At the end of the HZ, riders will soft pedal to allow the riders who did not participate in the HZ to regroup with those who wanted to hammer. Most HZs will be a few miles just before a scheduled rest stop. This will allow a natural regrouping without hindering those who wanted to go fast. Once out of the HZ, the whole group will proceed at the advertised pace for the ride. (Tomorrow's pace is Moderate.)
All agreed? Great!
Now here are the designated Hammer Zones for tomorrow's ride:
1. Starting at the top of the Escambia River Bridge across the Causeway to the right turn at Chet's Restaurant. Once you turn right, soft pedal until regrouping.
2. Starting at the right turn at the bottom of the hill on Hamilton Bridge Road until the rest stop at the Tom Thumb at Glover Road.
3. Starting at the Toll Booth across Gargoyle Point Bridge to the rest stop at the Wal-Mart gas station.
4. Starting at the top of the hump on 3 Mile Bridge to Ritchey's East where we will partake of the 3L! (Left Lane's Libations)
"I can't remember all those!" Quit the sissifying! Print this page and mount it to your bars or just remember the HZs are (1) the Causeway and just before our (3) stops.
Other than these 4 Hammer Zones, please maintain a moderate pace for the length of the entire ride. ( If you have a question regarding what's Moderate, please see the Pace Chart at the bottom of the Blogazoidal.) This will enable others who may not be as beastly as you to stay with the group on this longer ride. If you are feeling like Quadzilla tomorrow, that's great! But, others may not be feeling as strong. Do them a great service and go to the front, while maintaining the moderate pace, and do a longer pull. You'll get the workout and kudos you were hoping for while helping the group to stay together. And, hey you guys that aren't having a banner day...no whining! Instead, just do short pulls or no pulls at all! Come on man!
Now when we arrive at a Hammer Zone, you hammerheads romp and stomp until your heart rate monitor blows a circuit! You guys that want the moderate pace, stay put! In fact, if I see you hammering, I'm going to stick a gel pack in your front spokes! (Maybe I should bring a whole box.) Everyone use a little self control and we'll have another fantastic F&S ride!!! I, for one, can't wait! (I may even throw down in one or two of those new Hammer Zones just to blow the funk out of the carburator!)
Seriously, none of us has a magical thingy that can control speed. (Although, Crusher has a remote control that changes traffic lights!) Therefore, we need a plan, a format that those of differing levels of fitness can ride together as one peloton on a longer ride.
A simple plan:
1. Maintain a moderate pace for all
2. Stronger riders do more work, weaker riders less work
3. Hammer Zones
We'll keep one eye on the weather forecast for you as it appears there may be a slight chance of rain in the morning. If so, we'll send out a post and/or a mass email to let everyone know what we're doing. For now, everything looks great for our Around The Bay Loop!
See you at Maygarden and Summit at 7am! And, I'll...
See you out on the road,
Bob
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
TERAD Antics
That was a fun early season TERAD! Large group for our weekly rendezvous with pain including most of the cast of unusual characters. We headed out under sunny skies and just about perfect weather for this ride on the Super Figure 8 Loop. The pace was quite docile as the guys seemed content to keep things in the high teens to around 20mph for the first half of the TERAD. Even the Petite Loop de Crit saw mostly moderate pace where one can usually expect a trip into Anaroebia.
However, once across 9th Avenue and onto Fairchild it appeared things were about ripe for some picking. But, just as we were cranking it up, we came around the curve and noticed the entire roadway blocked because of a house fire. (Where's Sgt. Huffman when you need him? For those of you unawares, we came across a house fire a couple years ago, and our own Chris Huffman, jumped off his machine and ran into the burning home to rescue two people and several pets! I just love that guy, don't you!!!) Once back on course, after our lengthy detour, the boys at the front had the hammer down. But, we were all back together at the Creighton Crossing (CC) and around the park loop.
Onto Burgess, 3P, Vortex, Coolio and Left Lane opened up the carboraters to see if they were running the right mixture. High 20s have been the norm for Burgess and this TERAD was no exception. We cruised around to Langley and across Mayo's Triangle. (Aptly named after the Bad Mayonnaise has made it a "Bad" habit of rolling through the signal lights that have turned a crimson like color. I think I just figured out that whole "Roll Tide" thing.) Now across Tippin and onto Langley itself, things really started to heat up!
As we passed Pensacourt, Gianni Bugno had the bit between the teeth on his steel 1963 Colnago. I always marvel at how Gianni can put a hurtin' on the peloton all the while riding a machine with technology developed in the 1960s. The man is a beast! Just as the leaders passed the school, the Vortex, out of nowhere and without the slightest bit of provocation, takes a flyer. What was the boy thinking?! There was tons of horsepower in the peloton just sitting and waiting to pounce. It wasn't long before Coolio, 3P and a few others reeled him in.
We made the turn onto Spanish and all seemed content to wait for Maygarden to develop any attacks. Just then, sensing the peloton was lagging, the Vortex launches another vicious attack, (that lasted about 300 meters) leaving all but Hurt Locker wondering. The two bandits were together as they turned onto Maygarden when Johnny Brizzard (Rockets, not JB Senior) caught them just outside of 2k to go and only Hurt Locker could go with him. Vortex gave up the ghost...go figure.
The pace quickened, as it always does on the TERAD, WERAD or any other RAD that ends on Maygarden. There were several futile attacks and lead changes but JB Rockets would have none of the shenanigans, jumping out of the saddle with 300 meters to go and easily cruising to his first TERAD victory of the 2012 season. Congrats Johnny!
In the post ride interviews at the Kiss and Cry Area; JB Senior was asked about his blocking technique from 300 meters back. He responded, "I had a rider up front, so I couldn't attack. Besides, the Vortex makes a good hole in the wind, so I rode in with him." When the Vortex was asked to respond to the comments made by JB Senior, he asked, "Was Coolio wearing those new red shoes?" Coolio replied, "What was Left Lane whining about?" When Left Lane was asked what he was whining about, he said, "Wonder why Murph got dropped?"
Ahhh, I just love this group, don't you?!
See you tonight at WSRE Parking Lot for the WFW ride at 5pm. And, as always, I will...
See you out on the road,
Bob
However, once across 9th Avenue and onto Fairchild it appeared things were about ripe for some picking. But, just as we were cranking it up, we came around the curve and noticed the entire roadway blocked because of a house fire. (Where's Sgt. Huffman when you need him? For those of you unawares, we came across a house fire a couple years ago, and our own Chris Huffman, jumped off his machine and ran into the burning home to rescue two people and several pets! I just love that guy, don't you!!!) Once back on course, after our lengthy detour, the boys at the front had the hammer down. But, we were all back together at the Creighton Crossing (CC) and around the park loop.
Onto Burgess, 3P, Vortex, Coolio and Left Lane opened up the carboraters to see if they were running the right mixture. High 20s have been the norm for Burgess and this TERAD was no exception. We cruised around to Langley and across Mayo's Triangle. (Aptly named after the Bad Mayonnaise has made it a "Bad" habit of rolling through the signal lights that have turned a crimson like color. I think I just figured out that whole "Roll Tide" thing.) Now across Tippin and onto Langley itself, things really started to heat up!
As we passed Pensacourt, Gianni Bugno had the bit between the teeth on his steel 1963 Colnago. I always marvel at how Gianni can put a hurtin' on the peloton all the while riding a machine with technology developed in the 1960s. The man is a beast! Just as the leaders passed the school, the Vortex, out of nowhere and without the slightest bit of provocation, takes a flyer. What was the boy thinking?! There was tons of horsepower in the peloton just sitting and waiting to pounce. It wasn't long before Coolio, 3P and a few others reeled him in.
We made the turn onto Spanish and all seemed content to wait for Maygarden to develop any attacks. Just then, sensing the peloton was lagging, the Vortex launches another vicious attack, (that lasted about 300 meters) leaving all but Hurt Locker wondering. The two bandits were together as they turned onto Maygarden when Johnny Brizzard (Rockets, not JB Senior) caught them just outside of 2k to go and only Hurt Locker could go with him. Vortex gave up the ghost...go figure.
The pace quickened, as it always does on the TERAD, WERAD or any other RAD that ends on Maygarden. There were several futile attacks and lead changes but JB Rockets would have none of the shenanigans, jumping out of the saddle with 300 meters to go and easily cruising to his first TERAD victory of the 2012 season. Congrats Johnny!
In the post ride interviews at the Kiss and Cry Area; JB Senior was asked about his blocking technique from 300 meters back. He responded, "I had a rider up front, so I couldn't attack. Besides, the Vortex makes a good hole in the wind, so I rode in with him." When the Vortex was asked to respond to the comments made by JB Senior, he asked, "Was Coolio wearing those new red shoes?" Coolio replied, "What was Left Lane whining about?" When Left Lane was asked what he was whining about, he said, "Wonder why Murph got dropped?"
Ahhh, I just love this group, don't you?!
See you tonight at WSRE Parking Lot for the WFW ride at 5pm. And, as always, I will...
See you out on the road,
Bob
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
TERAD Tonight!
The weather is absolutely perfect for another romp on the Super Figure 8 Loop at tonight's TERAD! Should be an antics filled ride as all the jersey leaders are scheduled for attendance as well as most of the Cast Of Unusual Characters. (COUCs) Come on out and enjoy 25 miles of rompin, stompin fun on the Firestone and Summit Express. Train leaves the Maygarden and Summit Station at 5:30pm! See you there! (Word on the street is that Coolio may make a cameo appearance!)
Just a few notes for the peloton's edification:
1. When you have a couple minutes, check out the Rides Calendar. We have scheduled every Full Moon Ride throughout the 2012 riding season. The first one is next Friday, April 6th at 6:30pm leaving from Casino Beach Parking Lot.
2. This Saturday we have scheduled the awesome Around The Bay Loop. This route has it all and has become the group's all time fave. We leave promptly from Firestone and Summit at 7am for this 65 miler. Come on out for some much needed base miles!
3. If you happen to be one of our triathlete brethren, you are always welcome on a F&S ride! However, that being said, please do not be on your elbows within the paceline. If you must be in your aero position, do so at the back on the group or if you are first in line only. We have had several close calls over the past few years with those on TT bikes. Safety is our number one concern and TT bikes are not safe within a paceline. They're not made for that purpose and presents a danger to those around you when you are in your aero position. Thanks for your cooperation guys.
4. Several of you have commented about the size of the peloton lately. Apparently, there is a bit of concern about getting too big to have that personal F&S touch that we have all come to know and love. Well, although we had over 30 riders this past Saturday, we had two groups after the rest stop. One short route group and the longer route group. It is up to each individual rider to decide which is best for them. We will continue to offer two options on our Saturday rides until the peloton is just too big for two groups...then we'll offer three groups!
5. Speed...oh boy. Look, I have received several phone calls and emails regarding the pace. I don't have a magical speed thing-a-mo-bob to somehow pull back the reins on those that want to go fast. (Yes, I know my name is Bob, but I don't have a magical thingy.) All I can say is this; most folks at some point in every ride want to go fast...the distance is the question. We have tried several warnings, cajolings, threats, bribes, etc. It doesn't work...besides I absolutely hate being the one doing it. But, you complain to me instead of the one speeding. (Uh...I don't have a magical thingy.)
And we still have the issue of speed. Every group I have ever been a part of has always had the same problem. (See Pace Chart for details) In fact, other than the Rides Calendar, the Pace Chart is the page with the most hits! This means that speed is a major issue to most folks. However, the only way that I have seen in my 30 plus years of riding in successfully dealing with this issue is to form groups based on pace. So, that's what we are doing, for now. If that doesn't work, I'm open to other suggestions.
Okay, enough of that.
We have a fantastic week of riding ahead of us, starting tonight at 5:30pm at Maygarden and Summit! Then tomorrow evening at WSRE parking lot for the 5pm WFW ride. Around The Bay is at 7am Saturday at Firestone and Summit. Don't forget the 8am WFW ride at Bagel Heads on Sunday or the Firestone and Summit ride at 2:30pm. Whew...what a week! I will see you at most of these rides and hopefully...
See you out on the road,
Bob
Just a few notes for the peloton's edification:
1. When you have a couple minutes, check out the Rides Calendar. We have scheduled every Full Moon Ride throughout the 2012 riding season. The first one is next Friday, April 6th at 6:30pm leaving from Casino Beach Parking Lot.
2. This Saturday we have scheduled the awesome Around The Bay Loop. This route has it all and has become the group's all time fave. We leave promptly from Firestone and Summit at 7am for this 65 miler. Come on out for some much needed base miles!
3. If you happen to be one of our triathlete brethren, you are always welcome on a F&S ride! However, that being said, please do not be on your elbows within the paceline. If you must be in your aero position, do so at the back on the group or if you are first in line only. We have had several close calls over the past few years with those on TT bikes. Safety is our number one concern and TT bikes are not safe within a paceline. They're not made for that purpose and presents a danger to those around you when you are in your aero position. Thanks for your cooperation guys.
4. Several of you have commented about the size of the peloton lately. Apparently, there is a bit of concern about getting too big to have that personal F&S touch that we have all come to know and love. Well, although we had over 30 riders this past Saturday, we had two groups after the rest stop. One short route group and the longer route group. It is up to each individual rider to decide which is best for them. We will continue to offer two options on our Saturday rides until the peloton is just too big for two groups...then we'll offer three groups!
5. Speed...oh boy. Look, I have received several phone calls and emails regarding the pace. I don't have a magical speed thing-a-mo-bob to somehow pull back the reins on those that want to go fast. (Yes, I know my name is Bob, but I don't have a magical thingy.) All I can say is this; most folks at some point in every ride want to go fast...the distance is the question. We have tried several warnings, cajolings, threats, bribes, etc. It doesn't work...besides I absolutely hate being the one doing it. But, you complain to me instead of the one speeding. (Uh...I don't have a magical thingy.)
And we still have the issue of speed. Every group I have ever been a part of has always had the same problem. (See Pace Chart for details) In fact, other than the Rides Calendar, the Pace Chart is the page with the most hits! This means that speed is a major issue to most folks. However, the only way that I have seen in my 30 plus years of riding in successfully dealing with this issue is to form groups based on pace. So, that's what we are doing, for now. If that doesn't work, I'm open to other suggestions.
Okay, enough of that.
We have a fantastic week of riding ahead of us, starting tonight at 5:30pm at Maygarden and Summit! Then tomorrow evening at WSRE parking lot for the 5pm WFW ride. Around The Bay is at 7am Saturday at Firestone and Summit. Don't forget the 8am WFW ride at Bagel Heads on Sunday or the Firestone and Summit ride at 2:30pm. Whew...what a week! I will see you at most of these rides and hopefully...
See you out on the road,
Bob
Friday, March 23, 2012
Around The Sound Loop!
Looks like this rainy weather will clear out just in time for one of our groups favorite loops; The Around The Sound! Yeppers, we are looking at temps in the low 70s with light winds for tomorrow morning as we head out on what has always been a great ride. We start at Fish and Wildlife at 7am and proceed across 3 Mile Bridge with a loop through Gulf Breeze proper before making our way east on roads that parallel Highway 98. We'll have a rest stop at our traditional location off Soundside.
There will again be two routes tomorrow; long loop group which will continue from the rest stop around the Santa Rosa Sound and the shorter loop group which makes it's way back through GB after the rest stop. Longer route is about 60 miles and about 40 miles will be the short loop. As has been our habit, the two groups will ride together under a moderate pace until the first rest stop. Then, each group will determine it's own pace thereafter. Usually the longer group maintains a pace in the low 20s mph and the short group will continue on in the high teens to around 20mph. Please see Pace Chart is you have concerns regarding speed.
This rider can't wait to see the cast of unusual characters (COUCs) and very much looks forward to putting in some miles with the peloton! Come on out in the morning and enjoy the fun and frolic on the Around The Sound Cruiseline!
Note: If the wind direction and speed are contrary, we may decide on Fort Pickens Loop. (Gotta love that Tailwind Express!)
See you out on the road,
Bob
There will again be two routes tomorrow; long loop group which will continue from the rest stop around the Santa Rosa Sound and the shorter loop group which makes it's way back through GB after the rest stop. Longer route is about 60 miles and about 40 miles will be the short loop. As has been our habit, the two groups will ride together under a moderate pace until the first rest stop. Then, each group will determine it's own pace thereafter. Usually the longer group maintains a pace in the low 20s mph and the short group will continue on in the high teens to around 20mph. Please see Pace Chart is you have concerns regarding speed.
This rider can't wait to see the cast of unusual characters (COUCs) and very much looks forward to putting in some miles with the peloton! Come on out in the morning and enjoy the fun and frolic on the Around The Sound Cruiseline!
Note: If the wind direction and speed are contrary, we may decide on Fort Pickens Loop. (Gotta love that Tailwind Express!)
See you out on the road,
Bob
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Murph's First TERAD Post
Hello sports fans, i.e. March Madness and those of you who enjoy a good yarn. (commentary) Last evening saw the F&S Peloton head out on the Super Figure 8 course under windy conditions. A might bit chilly too I understand. However, there were a brave few and among them one exceptionally brave soul who sent in today's TERAD report. Yes, that's right you bike riders you, Dave "Twin Six" Murphy (Murph for short) has sent in his first ever commentary. This is sure to be a hit and have the groupies begging for more from the Twin Six himself.
Here's Murph's report:
Hey, if you missed out thinking it was a bit too chilly, don't throw a pity party, jump on the Firestone and Summit Express this Saturday! It's leaving from a station near you! Check local listings for more details...uh, or the Rides Calendar at the bottom of this Blogazoidal!
See you out on the road,
Bob
Here's Murph's report:
Light turnout for the TERAD.
I not sure if was the lack of reminder or people fearing the gale force winds (10-12 mph)
The bulk of attendees arrived on time (5-10 minutes late) Those I remember: Myself Scott Burt Nestor Retro Rich (new guy on a Scott?) Mayo Keith Bugno
Rather breezy and cool evening
Parade pace for the start with Retro and Bugno keeping it in check.
Nothing spirited in the early part
Once on Fairchild, Big Motor was feeling his oats and started a steady hard pull that dropped all but 2 riders.
Rolled across Creighton and around the park.
Big Motor set tempo again on Burgess with Retro sitting on his wheel and a pack of ducks behind. Spirited but nothing to hurt anyone.
Back to Langley
David "Bad Mayonnaise" Mayo made an escape that left the peleton gasping for breath (reality Dave rolled the red light and proceeded up the road) Light turned green.
Big Motor made his way back to front and pulled (into a headwind) reeling in the Bad Mayo at Pensacourt. He continued his pull finally conceding it just before the traffic light.
Retro then pulled to Maygarden.
I took the pull for a bit and then Hurt Locker took over. He continued his pull until the wind tunnel section with 1k to go As he rolled off no one wanted to take over Retro made the decision to go for a suicide run hoping to catch the pack unaware. Brave move that unfortunately didn't work since I grabbed a free ride on his wheel.
Scott "I'm keeping my heart rate below 170 today" Burt and Big Motor had sat up. Nestordamus missed the break. I left Retro with 300m to go and crossed the line first. Retro in second. Nestordamus was third lamenting his decision on waiting to give chase.
Big Motor took some monster pulls which were greatly appreciated.
I was a wheelsucking be-atch nowing that I would be hurting myself Wednesday night with the Wheelmen.
Thanks Dave! Great report!
Ah yes, you gotta love Big Motor when he's in good form...especially on a windy day. He's like the EverReady Bunny; "...he just keeps going and going and going..." Kinda has a pinkish hue and floppy ears to match as well. Therefore, is there anyone among the fans that would deny Big Motor his well deserved Big Pull Bull Award?! No? Didn't think so. So, the BPB Award goes to Keith "Big Motor" Irwin this week and the Sprint Points and Green Jersey to Dave "Twin Six" Murphy! Congrats to both!!!
Hey, if you missed out thinking it was a bit too chilly, don't throw a pity party, jump on the Firestone and Summit Express this Saturday! It's leaving from a station near you! Check local listings for more details...uh, or the Rides Calendar at the bottom of this Blogazoidal!
See you out on the road,
Bob
Friday, March 16, 2012
First Ever TERAD Report
Well there I was, 3,000 feet above the valley floor, hanging onto a shaky flake by two fingertips. Suddenly, I heard a loud crack and...
Whoops, had another one of those flashbacks from back in the 1970s when I used to "hang out" in Yosemite Valley doing a bit of rock climbing. Sorry about that. This is a cycling blog and therefore is about cycling not some other wacko sport. I'm not suggesting rock climbing is wacko or those that participate have a couple of screws loose, but I have thought those thoughts when 3,000 feet up hanging onto a shaky flake by a couple of fingertips!
Enough of flashbacks! Let's hear about the first ever TERAD! I received reports from several of the cast of unusual characters with details. None more expletive, (uh, expressive) than the Left Lane himself. So, here's his version:
Back to live action:
Retro gaps the group of three chasers, Crusher, Dave "Twin Six" Murphy and Peter Pied Piper by about 300 meters when Dave "Twin Six" Murphy reels him in with the help of Peter Pied Piper, (followed by 200 kids on tricycles). As they wind up the final sprint, Crusher gives up the ghost after doing the Big Bull Pull on his new Trek machine. (This one is equipped with the new 5,000 mile Bottom Bracket. Crusher has blown through all the 2,500 mile models. This is his third frame! Perhaps, Trek should just get out a hacksaw and cut out that fancy BB and install a big stainless steel model with six 1/2" by 3" machine bolts and call it good! Sure it would add about 18 pounds to Crusher's bike, but he wouldn't blow out any more of those fancy Bottom Brackets.)
Twin Six goes around Retro with 100 meters left in the first ever TERAD to claim the victory and the Grand Prize; a dozen Krispy Kreme donuts donated by the Crusty Climber's Foundation. The CCF's President and CEO, Master Coolio made the post ride presentation with a stirring speech regarding the benefits of mass donut consumption. The fans were going wild!
This TERAD wasn't without controversy though. Apparently, Retro cried foul as the Pied Piper had not held his line during the final 200 meters and therefore impeded the Retro's sprint to the line. There was rumors of Peter Pied Piper and Twin Six conspiring against Retro and the insults were flying until the instant replay, uh...replayed the whole last 200 meters. Pied Piper, in fact, didn't impede Retro's sprint but there was evidence of a few of his 200 kids on tricycles taking turns cutting off Retro's sprint. Therefore it appears we have a conspiracy. However, Twin Six shared his donuts with Retro and everyone went home happy...and full!
Results of the first ever TERAD: Twin Six gets the bragging rights for the week and Crusher is awarded the Big Pull Bull prize! "He's a BPBer baby!" I'm using my best Dick Vitale impersonation here in honor of March Madness!
Hey, if you missed this antic filled ride, don't fret yourself. (I did too!) There is another fun filled ride just around the corner. Tomorrow morning we're doing the infamous 3 Amigo Loop with a Twist. This group fave is about 45 miles with hills and thrills, (hopefully no spills) and fun for all. Come on out! For all the details check out the Rides Calendar at the bottom of this Blogazoidal. And I'll...
See you out on the road, (hope those flashbacks are over?!)
Bob
Whoops, had another one of those flashbacks from back in the 1970s when I used to "hang out" in Yosemite Valley doing a bit of rock climbing. Sorry about that. This is a cycling blog and therefore is about cycling not some other wacko sport. I'm not suggesting rock climbing is wacko or those that participate have a couple of screws loose, but I have thought those thoughts when 3,000 feet up hanging onto a shaky flake by a couple of fingertips!
Enough of flashbacks! Let's hear about the first ever TERAD! I received reports from several of the cast of unusual characters with details. None more expletive, (uh, expressive) than the Left Lane himself. So, here's his version:
The first TERAD was a huge success. We had appx 15 riders or so including the usual kouc's/favorites of the peloton as follows: 4 Daves (Retro, Bad Mayo, Lawman, and TwinSix Murphy), Big Hoagie, Left Lane, Prentis, Johnny Bugno, Tim Crusher Fox, the CCC-Coolio, Happy Harlan, Nestordamus, Peter, as well as Brett and either 1 or 2 of the other Wheelman who rode around ½ the ride with us.
Weather was great with the skies clearing and the temperature going up to around 70-75 degrees. We rode our usual course heading down summit and then up 12th avenue. Sure enough as we passed PSC, there was a loud POP!! from behind me only a couple of miles into the first TERAD. Bad Mayo had punctured (we later found out he had been overinflating seeking any advantage he could get when Retro blurted out at the end of the ride that he was a little worried when Mayo asked him to put 135lbs into his tires as they started their ride from the Mayo Manor). If only the Bad Mayo would invest in his tires the way he invests in his other toys (boats, Excalades.....etc.!!). Luckily Truly Spoken was around 200 yards down the road and we dropped Mayo there to pick him up later after the boys at TS (Thanks to the Guys at Truly Spokin!!) put his machine back in running order.
We regrouped and headed to our first trek down Langley. The pace was fairly moderate compared to some of the hammerfests of prior years and the whole group pretty much stayed together through the Crit section and the remainder of the ride until we reached Maygarden. With many of the guys just getting back into shape after Winter layoffs and with me nursing a balky Knee this was a welcome relief.
Mayo rejoined the group around 9th Avenue and we headed up Langley for a second time. This time the pace picked up somewhat but not over 25mph. However as we turned onto Maygarden...."Who Let The Dogs Out!!", the moderate pace was replaced by the usual Maygarden Mayhem!! It was at this point that my account becomes second hand whereas my aching knee said "No Mas" and I latched on to Mayo's wheel and watched the peloton pull away.
Now, the way I understand it, the second time down Langley the pace quickened to mid 20s mph. The peloton, mostly together, makes the turn onto Spanish where the carnage begins. As the survivors make the turn onto Maygarden, Lance launches a vicious attack with Ivan Basso and the Vortex on his wheel. This puts big Jan Ullrich into difficulty! (Dadgummit, another one of those wretched flashbacks again. I've got to cut my steroids dosage in half. These flashbacks are getting more real and frequent every week. Let's see...from 12 pills a day down to 8 pills, surely that will fix it. Hmmm...wonder how many Coolio takes?)
Back to live action:
Retro gaps the group of three chasers, Crusher, Dave "Twin Six" Murphy and Peter Pied Piper by about 300 meters when Dave "Twin Six" Murphy reels him in with the help of Peter Pied Piper, (followed by 200 kids on tricycles). As they wind up the final sprint, Crusher gives up the ghost after doing the Big Bull Pull on his new Trek machine. (This one is equipped with the new 5,000 mile Bottom Bracket. Crusher has blown through all the 2,500 mile models. This is his third frame! Perhaps, Trek should just get out a hacksaw and cut out that fancy BB and install a big stainless steel model with six 1/2" by 3" machine bolts and call it good! Sure it would add about 18 pounds to Crusher's bike, but he wouldn't blow out any more of those fancy Bottom Brackets.)
Twin Six goes around Retro with 100 meters left in the first ever TERAD to claim the victory and the Grand Prize; a dozen Krispy Kreme donuts donated by the Crusty Climber's Foundation. The CCF's President and CEO, Master Coolio made the post ride presentation with a stirring speech regarding the benefits of mass donut consumption. The fans were going wild!
This TERAD wasn't without controversy though. Apparently, Retro cried foul as the Pied Piper had not held his line during the final 200 meters and therefore impeded the Retro's sprint to the line. There was rumors of Peter Pied Piper and Twin Six conspiring against Retro and the insults were flying until the instant replay, uh...replayed the whole last 200 meters. Pied Piper, in fact, didn't impede Retro's sprint but there was evidence of a few of his 200 kids on tricycles taking turns cutting off Retro's sprint. Therefore it appears we have a conspiracy. However, Twin Six shared his donuts with Retro and everyone went home happy...and full!
Results of the first ever TERAD: Twin Six gets the bragging rights for the week and Crusher is awarded the Big Pull Bull prize! "He's a BPBer baby!" I'm using my best Dick Vitale impersonation here in honor of March Madness!
Hey, if you missed this antic filled ride, don't fret yourself. (I did too!) There is another fun filled ride just around the corner. Tomorrow morning we're doing the infamous 3 Amigo Loop with a Twist. This group fave is about 45 miles with hills and thrills, (hopefully no spills) and fun for all. Come on out! For all the details check out the Rides Calendar at the bottom of this Blogazoidal. And I'll...
See you out on the road, (hope those flashbacks are over?!)
Bob
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Tonight: First Ever TERAD!
I can't believe it's already that time of year again; it's TERAD Time! And tonight is our first one ever! That's right folks, sadly the WERAD is no longer, now it's replacement, the TERAD is here to stay! (Well, at least for awhile until we come up with the MERAD or THURAD. Or how about the FERAD?) Everything is the same, except the day of the week...uh, and the meeting location and the...no, I think that's it. Just two changes, or is it three?!
Anyway, here's the particulars:
-Tonight at 5:30pm First Ever TERAD! (Does that mean it's a FETERAD?)
-Meet at Maygarden and Summit.
-The Loop will be the same with the same sprint locations! Come on somebody!
-Remember this is a moderate to very fast paced ride. Since we are close to home there is no sweeper. The last two kilometers are marked and the Maygarden Sprint has become a classic known all over the world! (Or at least northeast Pensacola)
Who will have the bragging rights for the week?
Who will amass the most points?
Who will obtain a new nickname?
Who will don the Big Pull Bull jersey?
Who will do something stupid?
Who actually cares? (I just love this kind of stuff!) Be sure to hang around the Kiss and Cry for all the post ride stories both true and fabricated. (And truly fabricated!) This is going to be a inaugural ride you won't want to miss!
See you out on the road,
Bob
Anyway, here's the particulars:
-Tonight at 5:30pm First Ever TERAD! (Does that mean it's a FETERAD?)
-Meet at Maygarden and Summit.
-The Loop will be the same with the same sprint locations! Come on somebody!
-Remember this is a moderate to very fast paced ride. Since we are close to home there is no sweeper. The last two kilometers are marked and the Maygarden Sprint has become a classic known all over the world! (Or at least northeast Pensacola)
Who will have the bragging rights for the week?
Who will amass the most points?
Who will obtain a new nickname?
Who will don the Big Pull Bull jersey?
Who will do something stupid?
Who actually cares? (I just love this kind of stuff!) Be sure to hang around the Kiss and Cry for all the post ride stories both true and fabricated. (And truly fabricated!) This is going to be a inaugural ride you won't want to miss!
See you out on the road,
Bob
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Two Loops Are Better Than One!
This Saturday we have on tap for the peloton, the group fave Innerarity Point Route. I hope the weather holds for us. We've been rained out 2 of the last 3 Saturdays! So far, the forecast looks fantastic with temps at start time in the mid 60s warming to mid 70s by noon with a small chance of rain.
Therefore, if you have been itching for a ride with the COUCs; if you have experienced some withdrawal symptoms such as loneliness with very little self inflicted suffering and longing to stare at the rear wheel of someone hammering along in the paceline...then I have great news for you! Here is your prescription for relief: Saturday at 7am at Fish and Wildlife! If you're there, your symptoms will disappear! Guaranteed!
In fact, we will have a longer loop group and a shorter loop group for your cycling enjoyment. Two loops are better than one! That's right, you heard it here first! The longer route, for those studleys among us, will be about 50 to 55 miles. The shorter route, for those who have been sick, injured, up at night with an infant, up at night with a spouse, up at night with a significant other, up at night with an insignificant other or just can't sleep, will be about 40 miles. Either loop will be good fun! (Why not do both?!)
So, here's the deal: The whole of the peloton will leave together and stay together at a moderate pace (17 to 20mph) until the groups separate at the Back Door of NAS. Then each group will set it's own pace based on the dictates of the members of each group. FYI: The longer group will most likely have a pace that is moderate to fast (17 to 23mph). The shorter group will probably continue on at the moderate pace. If you decide on the shorter route, please bring your photo identification as you will need it to get onboard NAS Pensacola.
Really looking forward to seeing everyone and observe some relief of those symptoms we're all experiencing! Until then, I'll...
See you out on the road,
Bob
Therefore, if you have been itching for a ride with the COUCs; if you have experienced some withdrawal symptoms such as loneliness with very little self inflicted suffering and longing to stare at the rear wheel of someone hammering along in the paceline...then I have great news for you! Here is your prescription for relief: Saturday at 7am at Fish and Wildlife! If you're there, your symptoms will disappear! Guaranteed!
In fact, we will have a longer loop group and a shorter loop group for your cycling enjoyment. Two loops are better than one! That's right, you heard it here first! The longer route, for those studleys among us, will be about 50 to 55 miles. The shorter route, for those who have been sick, injured, up at night with an infant, up at night with a spouse, up at night with a significant other, up at night with an insignificant other or just can't sleep, will be about 40 miles. Either loop will be good fun! (Why not do both?!)
So, here's the deal: The whole of the peloton will leave together and stay together at a moderate pace (17 to 20mph) until the groups separate at the Back Door of NAS. Then each group will set it's own pace based on the dictates of the members of each group. FYI: The longer group will most likely have a pace that is moderate to fast (17 to 23mph). The shorter group will probably continue on at the moderate pace. If you decide on the shorter route, please bring your photo identification as you will need it to get onboard NAS Pensacola.
Really looking forward to seeing everyone and observe some relief of those symptoms we're all experiencing! Until then, I'll...
See you out on the road,
Bob
Friday, March 2, 2012
Weather Looks Iffy At Best
Well, cycling fans and those of you who love to ride; the forecast for tomorrow morning's group fave Around The Bay Loop does not look promising. (At least not for riding.) The latest report says there is a 70% chance of thunderstorms at start time and it doesn't get any better the rest of the morning! We may actually have to postpone this route until a nicer day with a nasty wind out of the south! (Why should the Gargoyle Bridge be any easier this time?!)
Regardless, we'll send out a post and mass email when a decision is made whether we ride as a group or not tomorrow morning. But, it's not looking good. Just FYI. So, stay tuned for more details as they become available!
Until then, enjoy the weather! And I'll...
See you out on the road,
Bob
Regardless, we'll send out a post and mass email when a decision is made whether we ride as a group or not tomorrow morning. But, it's not looking good. Just FYI. So, stay tuned for more details as they become available!
Until then, enjoy the weather! And I'll...
See you out on the road,
Bob
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