Where the 'Magic' happens

Ok, now that I have got the http://www.muscatinecycling.com/ website up & running, I can get back to my blogging... and just in time, as the roller racing season is about to get into full swing. Yes, I am ready... and I know you all are interested in seeing where all the 'magic' happens... so here it is...


My bedroom for the 2009 Winter Training season is where I train, eat, sleep, watch tv, read books and entertain the ladies.

Ok, 'entertaining the ladies' is a bit of a stretch, unless perhaps I have some sort of female stalker peaking through my window from the bike path a live adjacent too.

My bathroom is connected to this room as well, so I really have no reason to leave this area of my house except to go to Roller Races in Iowa this year and kick everyone's butt.

Speaking of that, the first race is this Sunday in West Des Moines. I bit of a long drive for a 2 mile Time Trial, but I honestly have nothing better to do. Yes, that is sort of pathetic, but is the dead of winter in Iowa and school hasn't started yet, gimme a break. Below is a picture from last year's event...

The race is actually in a mall, so get out your Teen Beat magazines, because Tiffany will be there singing 'I think we're alone now', along with about 40 or 50 sweaty cyclists freaking out the passing mall shoppers.

Hopefully all of my bedside sweating sessions will pay off as I hope to earn one of the three paying 'podium' positions in the Cat 1,2,3 division.

New Website for Muscatine Cycling

As president and communications director of the local bike club, I charged myself with creating a new website that would represent a variety of Muscatine Cycling groups and activities. Though it is in a sort of 'beta' version, it is up and running so go check it out and update your links accordingly.

http://www.muscatinecycling.com/.

I will have my hands full updating that site and my blog, but I should be able to manage. Actually, the racing team's race reports will all be housed on this site, so I won't have to double up.

In other news, I am preparing to do a few roller races in 2009 by training with some local muscatine riders at the bike shop. Below is a picture of Joe Mann, and his son riding behind him as they warm up for the 2 mile Time Trial, during our Friday night training workouts.

Excuse Me, Mr. President

I have recently been elected to serve as the 2009 President of the bike club here in Muscatine. Ah yeah, time to shake some things up!

In addition, I was appointed to the new 'Communications Director' postion, and will be creating a brand new web site for the group... (muscatinecycling.org). It should be up and ready early in 2009 and be a great resource for Iowa/Illinois recreational and competitive cyclists.

I start grad school next winter as well, so I will definately be busy. I am making sure, however, to leave enough free time for my training, as I feel a great season is in the making.

Well, off to the 'Friday Night Fights'... that is sort of my nickname for the racing team's weekly roller Time Trials. Should be some good pain.

'What are you looking at? Wanna fight?"

I stumbled upon a new way to 'cross train' this winter, that will provide multiple benefits... FITNESS BOXING.

I received an Everlast heavy bag and gloves for my birthday and am excited to begin weekly boxing workouts that will help develop my core, cardio, strength, and self-esteem. I am learning all of the various boxing moves (uppercut, jab, knee to the groin, etc.) as well as boxing fitness routines that include jump rope, push-ups, squats, etc.
As an added bonus, I am also planning on learning how to street fight. Yes, I am getting tired of getting my ass kicked walking down the dark alleys of Downtown Muscatine on my way home from ballet rehearsal. Being able to defend yourself is definately not a bad thing.
Perhaps my new 'street fighting' capabilities can help me to intimidate USCF referees into seeing things my way, whenever I need to contest the results. I suppose if I do poorly at a crit, I can blame another racer for bumping my wheel, or not keeping his line. Then challenge him to a post-race smackdown.

I will post some pictures, maybe video, of my training as it progresses. Currently, I am recovering from a sprained wrist, as I didn't wrap my hand properly during Saturday Night's 1am 'demo' class that I held in my basement.

I did get OUTSIDE both saturday and sunday on the bike for good workouts. I definately feel very confident about my winter fitness plan. I will enter a few Roller Races to confirm my form and motivate my training. I am hoping to medal in the Cat 1,2,3 Iowa State Roller Championships. I was a silver medalist as a Cat 4, so I will have my work cut out for me to acheive success at this next level.

'Ain't Going Out Like That'... 2008 Year In Review

Ok,the end of the 2008 racing season was sort of anti-climactic, so I decided to post my top 8 highlights of the year, in an attempt to gear up for 2009... appreciating my successes, and repressing my failures. Below they are listed in chronological order.

#1 - Silver Medal - Iowa State Roller Champs - Feb. 24th

I set my sights on upgrading to Cat 3, early in 2008, which fueled my winter training to unprecedented heights. The result, a PR on the 2 mile Roller TT of 5min. 18sec. and a Cat 4 Silver medal, conceding only to Shawn Loomis (who nearly went sub 5min).

#2 1st Place in Cat 3 Debut at Finchord Roubaix - April 13th

I scored points in each of my first 4 road races of 2008, which gave me enough total to upgrade to Cat 3 for the race in Finchford, Iowa. I was both nervous and excited to be racing against this more experienced and skilled Cat 3 field. After a couple laps of attacks by other teams, I launched my own with another rider. He fell off my wheel eventually, and I basically pulled off a lengthy solo breakaway to win the day. What a great start to my Cat 3 racing career.

#3 - 2nd Place - QCBC 20k TT Championships - May 18th

I had just gotten my first TT bike earlier in the month, but felt sharp and ready to go for this race. I noted that the course record was 26min 13 seconds, and decided to use that as my goal. Sure, that is a lofty ambition, but I was on a roll, having just come in 2nd overall at the Cinco DU Mayo Duathlon in Davenport, Ia, with the fastest bike split. I crossed the line at 26:16, just missing the course record. I was stoked. Oops, Bryce Mead, a professional TT specialist from Team Jelly Belly entered this race and bettered my time by approxiamately one minute.

#4 - 7th Place - Melon City Crit - May 25th

This is my hometeam race, so always a sort of 'goal event'. 81 racers from all over the region lined up for the Cat 3 race, and I was happy to have executed a very 'smart' race. I used my fitness strategically and fought my way to the front during the final sprint.

#5 - Silver Medal - Iowa State Cat 3 Road Championships - Aug. 2nd

Lining up against 45 Cat 1,2,3's for a 108 mile road race was truly a memorable experience. There were 21 Cat 3's aiming for the three available medals, in a race that was quite simply much too long for our capabilities. I was one of the last cat 3 men standing and won the chase group 'sprint' to get this Medal.

#6 Gold Medal - Iowa State Cat 3 TT Championships - Aug. 10th

I pulled off a great demonstration of my TT fitness at this event. I surpassed my expectations with a time of 53min. 27seconds (27.9mph ave). This easily gave me the Cat 3 gold, not to mention 2nd overall.

#7 - 2nd Overall - Du State Duathlon - Aug. 17th

Hoping to capitalize on my Bike Strength, I subjected myself to the horrors of a duathlon, knowing my running was weak. I clawed my way up to first place as the third transition (run) began, and only conceded one place to come in 2nd overall. Sweet!

#8 - 3rd Overall - DICE Cyclocross Series - Nov. 23rd.

I can't lie, my cyclocross season sucked. However, by competing in seven cyclocross races this year, I have successfully maintained my fitness, creating a great foundation for this winter and spring. Coming in third in the DICE series is still a highlight, because placing top 3 in this series was my main goal from the start of the fall season, and, I nearly blew it, but I didn't.

---

Ok, I do feel a bit better now. That will help set the tone for 2009. More on that in future blogs.

The Ban is lifted

Ok, the Ban on anonymous posting has been lifted a few days ahead of schedule after considering username 'bird''s suggestion.

No longer Internally Combustible

Didn't make it to the Jingle Cross, but sure did get some great fitness by preparing for it this fall. Oddly, I got what I wanted from the event. For example, I can now do 53 push-ups. How many can you do? Go ahead, give it a shot and don't cheat.... (the average adult male can do 27).

Had a great outdoor ride thanksgiving day, and then took some time off of the bike to transition to the next period of training. I have read that taking a week off a few times per year is a good thing. I can say, that it really upsets my brain not to train. Well I didn't make it a week, only lasted four days.

There is a tuesday night 'trainer/roller' club starting in town. We had a killer workout last tuesday. I won most of the stop ahead signs. It helped that we weren't actually moving forward, and no one can technically prove me wrong.

I have plenty of topics planned for the december 'off-season', please check back from time to time and I promise to entertain, enlighten, engorge, entail, enlist, and entrust, but not necessarily in that order.

The Beer Hand-up (and/or) Mission Accomplished

Let me start the race reports for Psychlofest and Middle Park Madness where the story basically ends. Below, I am pictured to the left at the start on Sunday. What you should notice is the expression of a man who isn't too excited to be there... "What have I gotten myself into?"

The field was way too strong and eager looking. Didn't everybody stay up late? Below is a picture of me realizing I should have stayed in bed. I believe we are about 4 seconds into the start of the race....

So, how did I get to that point? Let's now go back to the beginning.

---- Psychlofest Cyclocross, Bettendorf, IA, Saturday ---

Headed up to the race with Nick Campbell, and was feeling pretty good. It was bitterly cold out, which may have affected the turn-out a bit. The course was fast and featured several areas of pavement and hard-packed dirt, so I had a feeling I could do well.

I was focused on placing as high as possible, as I was currently in 2nd place in the DICE 4 race series, meaning I would win additional cash if I could hold a top 3 finish in the series. I looked around to see who was and/or wasn't there, and it looked like Bryan Abbot and Kyle Williams were going to be the main threats to my ranking in the series points.

Tracy Thompson of Bikes2U lined up in the Cat 3/4 race next to me. Hmm? He has got to be fast (I believe he is a Cat 1 on the road, maybe 2), though I was surprised he in wasn't in the more prestigious Open Race. Looked like about 17 or so in the race... and we were off.

I stuck a good pace as me and 3 other racers began to create a gap, Abbott, Williams and Thompson (aka Tater). Teammates Abbott and Williams were setting the pace early as me and Tracy were sort of 'hanging on' at first. After a lap or two Abbott began to slip away.

My strengths were on the hard pavement and dirt sections, but I was markedly slower on the uphill riding and running sections. The Tatenator was able to seemingly rocket up the hill, leaving me in the dust. He definately had a little extra grease in his frying pan when it came to that hill. Later, though on the run-up, his french was a little fried, whereas Abbott and Williams were always able to gain a little ground on us.

With Abbott eventually out of sight up ahead, I was trying to keep Tracy and Kyle in my sights, as they were sort of pulling away. I began to smell a respectable 4th place finish coming on, but I wasn't giving up yet.

Awesome, Tracy and Kyle had a technical 'incident' on one of the corners, and were running their bikes up. This allowed me to catch up, and advance ahead of them. This didn't last long, as Tracy used his uphill power to disappear from view towards the last couple of laps.

Me and Kyle, however were still side by side. He was nailing me on the most painful 'phil's hill' run-up, whereas I was always able to gain ground on the flats. We traded spots a couple of times as the last lap was underway. I knew my only shot at beating him, was to get to the run-up before him, because if he got there first he would easily win, because the finish was just 100 yards past the run-up.

I gave it everything I had, but he had just a bit more, as he got to the run-up just ahead of me, and pulled away to get third. Dang, that run-up was one of the most leg burning obstacles of the season.

Ok, I won some cash, and maintain my 2nd place position in the series with 90 points. 10 points behind Abbott, but 6 points ahead of Adam Price and 9 points ahead of Kyle Williams.

----Hawkeyes Vs. Minnesota----
Ooops, I was hosting a sort of football party that night. Hmm? Maybe I don't need to race Sunday, it is just money, and I did get a great workout in at Psychlofest. No, don't be a wimp.
Wait, what is that sound, was that a beer can being opened? Yes, it was, wait, no, there is a cold filtered, wide mouthed silver bullet heading toward my mouth. Must stop it... ahh no, the brewed substance had made it's way into my mouth and down my throat.

No worries, I can have a beer or two and still have a great race.... Crap, those beers keep launching themselves into my digestive system. Man, the hawks are doing great! Forget about it, there is no way I can go to the race tomorrow, so I decided to just sort of 'relax' the rest of the night. This decision seemed my only option as the clock was claiming it was 2:30 am as I was devouring Taco Bell Burritos like 'there was no tommorrow'.

---8:15am--- Ah, man, I had my first RAGBRAI flashback. I felt like crap with a full day of bike riding ahead of me. Oh, but alas I was not on RAGBRAI, and starting to feel extremely guilty and foolish for not being able to race today at 100%. Oh well, back to sleep, to hide from the shame of not racing.

8:20am--- Well, I can't sleep. Did I eat sandpaper last night? My mouth felt like it. I headed to the store and got a mega sized 'Rock Star' energy drink, maybe that will help. Ok, now I felt really energized and tired at the same time. That will have to do, because I knew that If I merely finished the race I should be able to get 3rd in the series and win $50.

I brought my sister and brother-in-law for support and off we went.

THE RACE-
Much improved weather, great for the spectators. Can't wait to be a spectator and get this race over with. I know that is a horrible attitude, but, hey I have about 43 races under my belt this year, give me a break.

I lined up inadvertantly in the front row. The field was much larger and much stronger than saturday's race. Moritz told me my brake was rubbing as we waited... man this is going to be a long race. I took off as strong as I could and quickly, very quickly slipped back to the middle of the pack. I hit the first set off barriers so fast I almost lost the handle. Unfortunately I didn't, so I had to keep racing.

The course was 'soggy' which really slowed it down and made even the flat sections painful. The run-up was mild compared to yesterday, that was a plus. Midway through the first lap I counted back and realized I had already fallen back into 14th place.

One lap down, 6 to go. I just kept telling myself I had to finish, that's it just finish. Still not sure if this was possible. About half way through the race I actually started to feel better. I had found some good lines, and was gaining ground on some racers ahead. Cool, I was going to finish, get in a great work-out and most likely win some cash.

Wait, there is Kyle Williams just up ahead. If I can stay close to him, I will get 2nd Place in the series instead of third. Dang it, I couldn't do it, as he eventually slipped up ahead out of sight.

I did pull back a few people, which is nice. My fitness is still strong (all things considered) so as endurance became more of a factor, I began to show strength.

That crafty Williams couple, Kyle was out of view, but his wife Robin, just happened to be right ahead of me. I couldn't help but to notice that Robin was a woman. Well, technically she wasn't even racing against me, but it is always nice not to get beat by a girl, so I caught up with her.

My plan was to drop the hammer on sections that I seemed to be strongest at, get a gap and try to hold on to it. Due to my poor pre-race nutritional decisions Satruday night, my only strength today was the down hill section. That is sad, I know, basically just using gravity to do what my legs couldn't.

As the last lap approached she was still on my wheel. I wished she would quit following me, as I needed some RAGBRAI 'alone time' as the race was very exhausting. Nope she seemed interested in making my last lap just as painful as the first 6.

Wait... then it dawned on me, I was in position to accept my first beer hand-up of my racing career. I figured I earned this reward, since I really was in no contention for glory, and sort of celebrating the fact that it looked like I was going to finish this race, amazing. Actually, it was even more amazing that I started this race, but I digress.

I had my bike over my right shoulder and my left hand outreached, in anticipation of the Coors silver bullet saving my day. I grabbed the beer, chugged down some large gulps as I continued to make forward progress. I then threw the beer so that it would splash all over the spectators watching (sorry bout that), and remounted my bike. Man, that tasted like crap, but what great delights await me, as this nightmare is about to be over.

Oh yeah, Robin is still back there. Please, let me finish ahead of you. I am a nice guy, my intentions are good and I am not sure my ego can handle you out-racing me. With just the long straight finish section left, I punched it with what meager bit of strength I had.

And, then, playing me like a fool, she emerged from my wheel and schooled me in front of all those watching at the finish line.

I quickly went over to the cooler and began to drown my sorrows. Wait, I am not actually sad, because 'mission accomplished', I most certainly came in third in the series, so I had $50 waiting for me on the podium after the Open race.

During the Open Race, some of the B2U team was on the hill pounding down Bud Lights and heckling the field. It was fun to join in as a fan, watching the others suffer over the same course we had just got done breaking in for them.

Then, Brian Abbott busted out a trombone to encourage the racers. It was then that I decided to race the 'A' Race next year. Not because I am planning on being a stronger rider, but because the quality of the heckling was so much better than the cat 3/4 race's. Oh, how I could have used a trombone blast to keep my mind off of the pain.

I really should have just picked one or the other races to do, but ultimately it did work out. I sort of regret not being able to 'race' Sunday, at least not with my health in tact, but I am, on the other hand, proud that I showed up.

I am planning on hitting it hard tuesday and wednesday for training, then a sort of a two day taper before Jingle Cross Rock. I am only racing on Saturday, so no worries about a repeat retardance by racing Sunday. This way, I can cheer on Mt. Krumpit with the others Saturday after my race and watch the awesome UCI field of pros and Cat 1 amateurs battle it out.

(Photos by Dad of Moritz)

2009 Iowa Bike Racing Schedule

If you haven't noticed, the 2009 Bike racing schedule is posted, check it out:
Bike Iowa Schedule

Some positives:

1) Iowa City Time Trial Series. Barry Carter is putting on 3 TT's, one a month. Awesome, that will be great motivation for me to continue where I left off with last season's successuful TT racing.

2) Rasmussen's Death Squad is putting on a race weekend in Des Moines. Not sure I will make the drive, but good to see that team putting together some racing this year.

3) Cedar Rapids Criterium. Cool, a great town, centrally located, that could end up being a very well recieved event.

4) No Single Speed Championships listed... I don't race that, not sure what it is or why it exists, so won't have to miss out on more medal opportunities. I noticed that most single speed racers at last years champs were bike shop owners and/or employees... hmm, interesting?

5) Gravel Road Race Championships... Ok, I don't know what that is either, but I imagine I can just hop on my cyclocross bike, slip around on back county roads and win some sort of medal. I would much rather have a RR in early september, but maybe racing on gravel is similar enough to still make my racing calendar.

Some negatives:

1) The roller races are all in Central or North Iowa except for Muscatine and Cedar Rapids. I miss the Quad Cities and Iowa City options. Oh well, I will still go to at least three, otherwise it is a long, raceless winter.

2) DICE Road/Circuit races gone... Crap! Doesn't look like we will have the Scott Co. Park series or Hummer Hammer this year. There is still time guys, come on, somebody step up and fill Mike Z.'s shoes. Luckily, I know they put on two TT's and one RR in Illinois, just across the river thanks to Donnie Miller, but perhaps they can still be persuaded to do an Iowa circuit race or two?

3) Two Bee Racing... Yep, it's over, Conn is putting on kent park but the rest of the races aren't listed. That means about 30 or 40 races aren't on this year's calendar. That will definately make it harder for me to be competitive, since I relied on those as 'training races' and a source of michelob ultra and brownies.

4) Iowa City Criterium Champs... No one has stepped up to take that over from the former Pella team. I hope that doesn't end up in Des Moines or west Iowa. With Two Bee races gone and DICE racing limited, my race calendar is getting more and more travel oriented. Maybe I can put on a criterium in August? QC has a crit in Illinois, but how great would it be to have the State Champ Crit in Davenport or Bettendor Iowa? Maybe that Hummer Hammer race?

Actually, I imagine the 2009 calendar is still tentative, as spring fever is bound to inspire a few more races. No DICE cyclocross races are even listed, so unless that team is disbanding, I imagine they are still yet to plan their 2009 race calendar. In the meantime they are putting on an awesome series of races this fall, good job.

Heading to bettenforf, hopefully twice this weekend to race cyclocross. My fitness slips just a bit each week, so luckily there are only two more weeks left. I am at a severe disadvantage toward the end of the racing season, because I don't ride outside at all, except to race. Doesn't mean I am not in good shape, just means I have to keep my goals realistic for late fall racing.

Iowa Bicycle Racing Association Wish List

I guess this weekend is when the race directors and Iowa racing enthusiasts get together and try and map out next year's racing calendar. Here are some quick ideas from my perspective...

1) State Road and Time Trial races rocked, hopefully they stay the same. For the 108 mile Road Race, though, only 8 Cat 3's out of 21 finished last year. Maybe it should be three laps for Cat 3's instead of 4?

2) I hope an Iowa City and Quad City team opts to put on a Roller Race this year. Otherwise, they seem to cluster around the Des Moines area. It would be cool to have an 'east' and 'west' conference for these, and then the two meet at the end of the season for a play-off where each conference sends their top ten to battle for the best cumulative times.

3) I hope the B2U team puts on a road race and/or a crit. I think last year they just put on a roller race. There seems to be some available dates in the summer. A strong team like that would have a great race, and this would be good promotion for the sponsor.

4) Speaking of summer, the racing season around here seems to peak in the spring. I wish there were a few more races in July and September (august is stacked).

5) State Crit? Where/when will it be? I liked having it in August, because all of the state champs then were in the same month. Where? I am not a fan of those flat, 8 corner plus courses, but I suppose that would be the most obvious. Maybe somewhere that had a 'cool factor' with spectators, perhaps restaurants right on the course like at the IC crit. I enjoyed when intoxicated patrons begin to cheer for us.

6) Two Bee Races.... Are these really over? Say it isn't so. I raced almost 15 of those last year. Obviously my results in other races were aided by attending these. I guess Conn is still putting on the famous 'kent park' race, that serves as a sort of spring opener for the new season...cool. But, guys, please consider maybe still putting on one or two more this year! Maybe instead of hosting 40 + races each year, maybe just do a handful. Maybe a spring classic, a summer classic and a fall classic, with a Time Trial or two mixed in? Please reconsider pulling the plug on all of them. Either way, thanks for the great races over the years.

7) DICE cycling... I really missed the Scott Co. Park races and Hummer Hammer. Hopefully they can bring those back. Again, if not the entire 3 part series of races, then just do one, but thanks for the past races.

8) Single Speed Championships? What the hell is a single speed? I oppose the whole concept, and handing out a huge pile of state medals to the select few who race this discipline. Having said that, if there were more single speed races prior to the championships, and everybody rode a 53/17... ok, I'm in. Sort of like that Little Indy 500, 'cutters' deal where everyone races the exact same bike, elimating equipment as a variable.

9) Iowa Racing Tour... We all watch the pros race on these multi-stage events and have their times calculated over the course of the events. It would be awesome to have an opportunity to race like that here in Iowa. I guess they did try that with the Memorial day weekend races once.

Moline Illinois Cross Report

Cold and grey was the day.

I had just put on some new treads, and overzealously pumped them up. Why is that of importance? Because this created a very bumpy scenario. Ok, I am putting this in writing, so I make sure to never inflate my tires to over40psi for a race. Everyone I talked to was inflating to around 33psi. Hmm, I thought maybe I could have an advantage by going with 50psi, but I didn't... it was bumpy and uncomfortable.

Speaking of uncomfortable, my fingers were becoming numb from the cold. I was hoping to start the race just to get warmed up. Actually, I was thinking about not starting the race and going home. Not an option as I had already paid my entry fee. Fine, let's race.

So, line up for the Cat 3/4 race, get called a sandbagger a few times, and tear off. I had the jump on everyone and led a good portion of the first lap. Am I on time for a next day delivery, or is everyone plotting against me, waiting to attack? I didn't like the feeling of all those people following me, so I laid off a bit. Sort of made me self-conscious. Maybe I laid off too much, because about 8 people passed me...

Hmm, that is less than ideal. At least everyone wasn't staring at me anymore, being the leader is a lot of pressure.

Ok, pedal harder... bumpy and I was braking too much. Being in ninth place was hard on my ego. Why were people I beat last race ahead of me? Well, no use stressing myself out over that, I can use this time to figure out what I am going to do later in the day. Probably won't be hungry, perhaps thirsty. Too bad I don't like football, I could watch TV and eat potato chips.

Wait a minute... I don't actually suck. Sure I did graciously except a Lance Armstrong poster at the registration desk, but that doesn't mean I have to follow in his footsteps of mid-pack finishing at cross races. Hmm, maybe some people, like Lance, are just better on the road, and others are better on the dirt. It would be great to just be awesome at everything, but maybe not as realistic.

Fine, now that I have lost contact with the top three racers (Abbot, Adam Price and Kevin McConnel) I can start in with some mantras... Let's try 'keep it smooth' for a while. Alright, that is working. I am not falling behind anymore. In fact, the group ahead of me is going slower than what I fell like going.

Pause the report... the squeaking of my front brakes is overwhelming. I really wish my front brakes didn't squeak, I feel guilty about all that noise pollution, plus I think sometimes I startle the riders ahead of me.

Ok, Carl Buchanan was watching the race and shouted out 'dig deep' to me. Cool, let's try that mantra for awhile... Bingo.

I set my sights on my taking back some glory. First target, ben shockey. His rear wheel slipped out from under him, for just a split second, and as if a shark smelling blood, I knew he was weakening. Attack, pass, gap, next target...

Chris Reed... Same plan, another guy who is a great racer, but who I felt I could beat, so I did. Follow for awhile to get a feel for his rhythm... Attack, pass, gap, next target...

Will Greenwood... Ah, always fun to pass the B2U uniform, though usually next too impossible. But, alas this one was worn at half mast, whatever that means, so I followed his wheel for a bit, realizing that I would be able to overtake his position, just a matter of timing.

Ok, now is good, on a straightaway, since I seem to suck on barricades and run-ups. Add a little salt and pepper and ask the waiter for the check.

Well, I suppose it is a bit too early to leave the restaurant, since the race is only half over and still plenty on my plate. Next target... Kyle Williams. Attack, pass, gap, next target...

Ok, that is a lie, he was just a bit too far ahead and holding his position well. Fine, what position does that leave me in? Fifth. Whatever, I will take it. So, time to go into defensive mode, which basically means don't lauch yourself into a tree, or slide through a corner. I was getting a larger gap on the 4 guys behind me with each lap. How many more of these bumpy laps are left? 3.

Three laps... this is the part of the race that is very uneventful. Because cross racing is sort of like a time trial in some ways, you are at some point locked into your pace, in that you pedal as hard as you can, and that is what it is.

A DICE guy had snuck into the mix somehow and was sort of closing the gap as the last lap began. Cool, that will give me something to focus on while I wait for the race to get over.

Through the first bumpy section. Pedalling hard, but not effectively as the rear wheel seems to be hopping all over the place. Now for the barricades... squeak of the brakes, scaring off some birds, then turtle toe through. Now for a less than graceful 'superman' remount.

There was a cool part of the course where you could fly downhill and get a sort of adrenaline rush as you almost caught air. That was fun, then a patch of sidewalk. I really do enjoy pavement. Maybe I should try some road racing next spring.

The race paid back 6 places so I got a fancy typed envelope with green bills inside. Always fun to win money.

Perphaps the courses will suit me better in two weeks in bettenforf, and I can time a good fitness peak. Optionally, this course did suit me, and I will continue to fall down the rankings. Can't wait to find out.

Drop and give me 50

Not much cycling related to talk about since I didn't go to altoona last weekend to race. So, might as well share part of my current fitness routine.

BOOT CAMP:

I am in week two of 'Sargeant Stange's Boot Camp'. This class meets twice weekly and we do all sorts of 'basic training' type exercises including: push-ups, sit-ups, flutter kicks, side steps, step ups, lunges, planks, supermans, jump ropes, line jumps, iso squats, jump squats, power cleans, grasshoppers, up-downs, etc.

I haven't been in real 'basic training' for the military, but I assume our instructor has, so this is possibly good insight into some of the preparation soldiers experience as part of their service to our country.

Each effort goes to the point of physical failure, then we keep going. Very intense and good to build both physical and mental strength. The extra muscle won't help much with my power to weight ratio this fall, but come winter, I will enjoy having an increased metabolism, especially at rest, since muscle burns more calories.

Is this good for my cycling? Of course... many of the bike races are basically 'battles' against the enemy forces. Sure they aren't wearing camoflouge, rather bright clashing colors. And perhaps, the only weapons, or their highly inflated egos and well trained cardio vascular engines, but still, some parallels.

When a race comes down to that final effort, maybe I will be able to push through that last mental obstacle and win the battle. If not, then I will live to fight another day, because just because I didn't win the battle, doesn't mean I can't win the war.

Now, on to the front lines (aka, my basement), for an all out assault against the forces of the fitness dvd, that threaten to dominate my winter.

Cyclocross Nutrition

Looks like I left last Sunday's Spooky Cross, just in time. I departed right after my race, but below are a series of photos from the Cat 1,2,3 race later in the day. These were taken on one of the leg burning uphills. As, you can see, riders were offered a variety of nutrional hand-ups to help throughout the race....

The offerings at this event mainly included beer, beef jerky, pizza, boone's farm (some sort of cheap wine), and keg cups(filled with who knows what). Occassionaly, a water bottle hand-up was witnessed, but that was rare.

Of course, most of the riders don't accept these generous offerings, at least not until the very last lap or after the finish. But, ultimately, everyone succombs...

I am still tentative about racing this Saturday at the Iowa State Cyclocross Championships, but currently looking like a go. If I don't go, I will still keep on track with my training, as the next 5 cyclocross races are within 45 minutes of my home, one of which being my top-secret 'goal' event.

Sounds like a good race in any event, with more good weather, but I can predict that the competition will be the toughest of the season, as many riders are approaching their late season fitness peaks.

Naked guy in the woods... Spooky Cross.

Ooh, spooky, racing bikes in the woods of the Living History Farms of Des Moines Iowa.
First impressions were made early as the road into the race was actually a sort of single track mud course for automobiles, right up through a farming field.

You could run but you couldn't hide from having a good time at this race. As tricks and treats awaited riders around nearly every corner.

MUD - What was this strange phenomenon that was strewn about the course? I have raced quite a few cyclocross races, and never had to contend with mud, which was a welcomed challenge. Specifically, there was a long stretch of mud next to a bean field that was extremely awkward to pedal through. The lines in the dirt seemed to direct the bike at its will. As a reward for making it through the field a huge ditch puddle awaited. One guy flipped over his handle bars on the first lap on Saturday, oops.

Then riders tore through the living history farm area, right past some sort of native american village. I asked one of the inhabitants if he minded if I called him an 'indian', instead of native american. After exhaling from his peace pipe, he obliged, and dutifully cheered me on during subsequent laps.

Perhaps I shouldn't have imbibed with my new Indian friend, because no sooner had I made my way through the village I began to hallucinate... Though it had to be a delusion, I swore I came straight into the path of George W. Bush! He was naked and had money dangling from his g-string.

That was too much to handle. I was glad that it was a wet course, this concealed the mess I made in my shorts as a result of this visual. After slipping a George W into the wedge of his fault line, I resolved to take the edge off of my herbal buzz, and was gracious to have been offered a jello shot as I made it to the top of the steep incline.

Great, now I am drunk, somewhat stoned and exhausted trying to keep up with the grueling pace of this Cat 3/4 race. Could it get any 'spookier'?

Sure did, my delusions kicked in again, as I was positive that I saw a devil on the course. Now, it was trippy enough to merely SEE lucifer, but the demon had a voice as well. Lap after lap he pleaded with me to 'lay down my bike' at the top of the hill. He fervently suggested that 'greg' would want me to. I suppose he was talking about Greg Harper, fellow Muscatine racer, but how did Satan know of Greg? Perhaps cliche, but this seems to suggest that a 'pact with the devil' had transpired at an earlier time in his racing career.

Ok, on with the race. If psyclofest in Bettendorf is one of the 'fastest' cross courses in Iowa, then this had to be one of the slowest. There was always some sort of obstacle that reduced the speed. A lot of this had to do with the recent rains, but the venue lent itself well to making this a momentum stealing course.

I must have sweated out my toxins, because the rest of the course on Saturday was free from hallucinations. I put the hammer down the entire race, and ended up in 7th, out of a large field of 37 riders. I'll take it, considering there seemed to be some really good talent that lined up.

After I hosed down my bike, I watched the rest of the races. Kegs were strategically positioned to increase 'audience participation'. There was a lot of participating going on.

Spent the night in a hotel. The hot tub was set way hotter than what was probably safe, oh well. I noticed a bus load of female soccer players checking in earlier, so I planned on staying in the hot tub as long as I could stand, hoping to meet some of them....

5 minutes later I went back to my room... Oh well. The tub was too hot so that is all the longer I could soak. In the morning I realized that the bus of female soccer players was actually a load of elderly tourists. Old people really do get into their breakfast. I grabbed some hard boiled eggs and got the heck out dodge, as their crabbing about the buffet was starting to become a buzz kill.

Buzz kill? Yes, you guessed it... that Indian guy ended up checking into the hotel room next to mine. I guess they don't actually sleep on the living history farm, rather return to modern civilization each night. After a 'wake and bake' I headed back to the course for Sunday's race.

WIND - Ok, the mud had dried a bit, but the wind was treacherous and cold. Less than ideal, but just added to the challenge.

Sunday's course was different than Saturday, and seemed to favor some of my strengths while exposing other of my weaknesses. I was aiming at try and re-coup some of my travel expenses by placing in the money (top 5), so I lined up in the front row and put the hammer down.

Great, more delusions. First, I thought that I saw a girl in our race. I looked around to make sure I hadn't entered the wrong event, nope I was good. Maybe my Indian friend had hooked her up as well, or perhaps I was just seeing things again. Whatever the case, she was pretty fast.

It took me a couple of laps to get up the nerve to ask for her digits. That went over like a fart in church, as she dropped back to avoid the awkwardness of racing side by side next to a guy she just shot down. (She ended up finishing 9th in the men's race and then won the women's open, despite my unwanted advances, great job).

I was able to stay within sight of everyone but the leader most of the race, so today was intense. Usually, you end up in some sort of solo ZEN zone, but today there was always opportunity to advance my placing just seconds up the road. I kept my eye on the fifth spot and vowed to do everything I could not to lose contact.

Ok, was this guy real? Not sure, so I picked up my cadence, as he began to run after me, suggesting that I should have bought a Rav 4 instead of a Honda.

Towards the end of the race I was just behind Pete Basso and carl buchanan of Rasmussen's Death Squad. I actually traded places with Carl a couple of times and was breathing right down Pete's neck. I was fast on the road, and turtle time slow on the hills. Turtle time? Well, I better move on, I will figure out what that even means in a later blog.

There was a head wind section that reduced the racers to a virtual crawl, however a good portion of the race was in the woods, so wind was a non-factor in many portions.

Instead of going up George W.'s squirrel hill, sunday went across a bridge and headed up past a 1900's historical village. It looked a little something like this:

M. Night Shyamalan was there working on his sequel to 'The Village'.


This was quite a coincidence, considering some guy named 'Shrek' was already on the course and several spots ahead of me.

I gave the bell a couple of gongs and then tore off down a super speedy tailwind section of hard surface. I always made up ground on the road, and then relinquised it on the uphills. I don't ride my cyclocross bike except at races, and haven't done any mountain biking since loud thunder is closed, so I guess this isn't really a surprising physical weakness.

I finished 7th again today, against another strong field. Carl Buchanan was able to slip just ahead of me towards the end, and Pete and Geoff Perril were just up ahead of him , so potentially could have placed as high as 4th if I would have had just a little bit better fitness.

I would highly recommend this race, as it was well put on, a great course, and good audience support. The best in the region showed up to race making for a great contest. Results at http://www.spookycross.org/.

(NOTE: Certain portions of the above report may or may not be true.)

Cross Pics

I found some action shots on Moritz's site from the Newton Cross. Might as well post them...

My calf injury improves each day despite opting to continue training. I have decided not to run outside anymore until march of 2009 since I believe the miles of hard pavement thumping caused the situation. Ordered some RUNerVALS so I can do some treadmill workouts, which are much less prone to injury causing.

Since I will be off of the disabled list, I am currently planning on going up to spooky cross in Des Moines Iowa this weekend, because I have absolutely nothing better to do. Guess I will rent a room by myself, though that sounds sort of lame.

Maybe I can just be a tough guy and sleep in my new ride... 2008 Honda Element, the auto industry's gift to Roadies. Yeah, there are a lot of Elements in the parking lot of bike races... there is a reason for that. So, my stylin mini-van is gone. Good riddance to that babe magnet.

Devil's Cross

Raced in Bettendorf Sunday at the first DICE cyclocross event of the season. Great day, great course, but I was definately injured going in. I paid my $25 registration fee, hopped on my bike, and upon rehearsing the first dismount section, I nearly turned around and tried to get my money back because I was only able to 'hobble' over the hurdles.

As I mentioned in the previous entry, I was wondering if maybe racing on an injury is the smartest thing, but ultimately, no worries, I am no more or less injured then before the event, and I have a result that I can be proud of, and use as momentum as the season progresses.

Actually, as the adrenaline took over, I was able to reduce the hopping a bit, however I still looked extremely rough through the dismounts. Ironically, this injury wouldn't even be a factor during any other time of the year, because only my running is affected, oh well.

So, not sure if I was going to make it past the first lap, I lined up in the second row, and planned on going through the first dismount section towards the rear of the pack, just to avoid the embarasment of potentially stopping dead in my tracks. If you have ever raced cyclocross, you should know that this strategy all but gaurantees that you won't win... Well, at least the pressure was off, I was only hoping to finish and get some points in the DICE cyclocross series Cat 3/4 division.

Ok, after the first lap, I knew I was going to finish, even though I was losing ground each time I got off of the bike, so I began to enjoy the prospect of actually trying to get into the top three (podium, sort of).

Adam Price, Carl Buchanan, Will Greenwood, Chris Reed, a single speed guy and myself emerged as the leading group, as I was beginning to feel a top five finish. At some point I heard Chris Reed hit the ground hard ... hmm, ok... top four finish. (he ended up being alright and even clawed his way back up to a respectable finish).

Adam and Carl slowly created a gap leaving me and Will to chase. He was stonger on the running portions but I was stronger on the bike as we exchanged leads a couple of times before I gradually left him behind.

No shot in hell of catching the two leaders, so mainly looking over my back from time to time to make sure I wasn't losing any ground to the two guys behind me. I was content to finish third. However, in cyclocross crashing, losing a chain, etc are always just a pedal stroke away, so I began to exert extra focus on effective execution through the technical portions of the course.

Cool, third place, won my entry fee fack and I don't think I have to amputate my leg, as it is sore but somewhat functional.

I can't say that I would have placed any higher without the injury, but I do believe I would have led some of the initial laps, and had a much less stressful experience.

Bone pain.

Osteoporosis... one in four men will break a bone due to this disease... Maybe I have it, or maybe I simply have Hypochondriacism. Stress fracture, bone cancer, torn muscle, tape worm, muscle atrophy, spur, shin splint, dimentia...? Not sure, but regardless of the exact diagnosis, my lower leg hurts when I run or walk. This injury was from running too much last week. (it is ok to smirk if you are a pure cyclist, though sort of rude to find happiness from my pain).

So no running for awhile... maybe that is a good thing since these Iowa cross races don't seem to have much running in them. (actually, a true USCF race is supposed to be something like 10% running, we aren't even coming close). Also, running is good for the cardio, but cyclocross is still basically a cycling event, so training needs to be basically cycling.

I will compete this sunday at the Devil's cross in Bettendorf, even with the aformentioned physical affliction. Either it will be a non issue, or my calf will crack open, and splinter into pieces, leaving a trail of blood and muscle fragments... food for the squirrels and/or homeless peeps who have seen the movie 'alive'.

Looking at my race calendar, I don't have to race 60 plus minutes anymore like I did in newton, I am entering cat 3/4 races or masters races from here on out, which aren't as long (usually 45 minutes). That will be a huge advantage, I like to get in and get out. Sure that is what my last girlfriend cited as reasoning to break up with me, but in the case of short format racing, it is actually a good thing.

This fall, I am going to be experimenting with some very different training tactics. One of which is pliometrics. Go ahead, look it up, I know you don't know what it means... I'll wait...

Ok, got it? Good! Do you want to fight about it? I wouldn't mess with me. With my new pliometric training, I should be able to give you a quick chop to the throat before you are even able to get your mullet tucked under your Nascar hat.

Also trying some indoor cycling at the Y. The first workout was great, and as an added bonus, there were some attractive females in the class. This always seems to inspire a few extra 'watts' of 'Man Power' as inpiration to be fit is peddaling along with me in the same room. Doing Spinervals in my basement with Coach Troy is great and all, but I really do need to mix in some social elements to this healthy lifestyle thing.

Cross Country Running

I entered the Muscatine High School's fundraiser 5k Cross Country running race this morning. It was held in the Discovery Park, which, by the way, would make an excellent Cyclo-cross course. Basically running through single track, over bridges, up and down hills, etc.

My reasoning is that the race very closely simulated a cyclo-cross race, but without a bike... so pure cardio and leg burning. Sure, I didn't have to carry a bike on the 'run-ups', but I just went that much faster, so got the same intense feeling of agony, as follows a cyclo-cross run-up.

I ran the course in 21minutes, (6min 45sec/mile), which I was told wouldn't quite qualify me to be on the MHS varsity cross country team (assuming I was still in high school). I guess their top guys can do it in around 18 minutes.

Well, I think I have a solid training strategy, as I am hoping to have some success in the DICE cyclocross Cat 3 series, in which the top 3 finishers over the course of 4 events get a trophy and some cash. I will admit, I am not too sure how, or if, I can get a state cyclocross medal in this discipline, but that is still a consideration, as I may opt to head to altoona in nov. for the championships, either as a Cat 3, or a master.

Sunday, I have a high tempo-paced group ride scheduled as well. I am hoping the local racers can summon up some more latent fitness.

Newton Cross Results

What a fine day for some cross racing in Newton's Maytag Park. This race was a 'necessary evil' for my fall season. I wasn't ready, but needed to compete in this race as a means of getting ready for later efforts. So, check my ego at the line, and dig in for a good workout.

I entered the Cat 1,2,3 race along with 16 others, some of the top cyclocross riders in the state ( Brian Eppen, Tony Nichols, Cam Kirkpatrick, John Olney, JJ Bailey, etc.) These top guys were definately ready to roll, and I really didn't see them much until they lapped me (along with everyone else) late in the race.

I can't really say my result of 14th out 0f 17 is a success, but then again, this is the 'A' race, so really doesn't dampen my spirits any (worst of the best).

http://sports.groups.yahoo.com/group/bikeiowa/message/8193

It should be noted that I was planning a nice 'attack' on the two guys ahead of me, midway into the race, until I wiped out hard, taking a corner too fast. Bloody elbow, and shin, not too mention finishing the last 5 laps with a bent brake lever and mis-aligned steering column, (ah, the fun of cyclocross).

So, in my world I could have possibly pulled off a 12th place, which I believe would have been the 3rd or 4th Cat 3 finisher. I am only going to get stronger, faster and lighter from here on out, aiming for a nice peak sometime in November.

This weekend I will be doing a 5k cross-country run, combining that with some cycling later in the day and on sunday should make for a good fitness builder. Then looking forward to racing with the guys from the Quad City area. Not sure if they are in as good of shape as these Des Moines area guys, so will be an intersting day.

Dirty Days

Dusted off the cross bike wednesday and took a spin around town (ok, I actually didn't even bother to dust it off, or even oil the chain). I figured I better have at least ridden it once before I race on it.

I am sure that I freak people out when I am on this bike, because I end up riding through ditches, running up hills, jumping curbs, etc. I try and stay off of the cement as much as is possible in an urban setting.

Below is a picture of some 'dirt stainage' resulting from wiping out taking a corner to aggressively in Muscatine's Discovery Park.

My helmeted head hit the ground, I slid several feet...but dirt is soft, forgiving, absorbant, acutally sort of a delightful experience. I recommend it. Time stood still as I slid across the grass... I pondered what I was having for dinner, whether or not I was getting any training benefits from this ride, how Lance Armstrong finished mid-pack at a recent cyclo-cross race, wondered why I wasn't trying to protect my head, and then, just as I was beginning to formulate answers to these questions, the crash was over... bummer. Hop back on, do a quick physical inventory for any serious injury... nope, dang, more dirty days ahead.

Doing what I did, so I will get what I got.

I stuck a pretty agressive 5 day training routine, and gained some ground towards my mental and physical preparation to begin the final fitness peak of 2008. Cyclocross.

I tried to run (literally) but I could not hide from this curious athletic endeavor. Training lost all purpose until I began to really commit to taking on the 2008 cross season.

I have up to 8 races on my calendar, with the first one being the 'cross out crohn's' race this sunday in Newton, Ia. Pictured to the left is a scene from last year's race. I won this race last year as a Cat 4, and subsequently upgraded to Cat 3 after getting a bronze medal in the state championships.

I really can't say I ended the season well, there is a huge jump in ability from the Cat 4 'B' races to the Cat 1, 2, 3 'A' race. However, I know I can hang, and at least enjoy trying, as all-out, time trial type efforts are my preference.

For my weekend 'training blitz', I entered the 'Miracle Ride' fundraiser in Wilton, Ia, and was able to finish the 100 mile route. Lots of pain and character building... perfect training. My mom was the one who talked me into doing this one, she did about 65 miles so we could finish at roughly the same time. I was even able to ride with her for the first 14 miles before I had to succomb to the urge to get in a 'steady state' work-out. I am amazed that people can actually ride their bikes purely for enjoyment... I will work on that later in life.

The next day I did a group ride century. I really didn't feel like going that morning, but this freaking blog was haunting me at 7:30am, as I was still in bed negotiating whether I would attend the 8am ride. I went, and was able to, then accomplish over 250 miles for the week. I realize that getting in 'base' or 'endurance' mileage doesn't make much sense with respect to cyclocross training, but I accomplished what I needed, a confidence boost, some fitness gains, and some weight loss. Let's roll!

Suicidal Grasshoppers.

Somebody really wanted me to enter the Harvest Hammer based on the comments from my previous blog... It didn't work out this year, maybe next year, seems like a great event. Based on the results, I believe I was looking at another second place, as John Grice posted a nice result.

Well, I am recovering from my 'mental injury', even thinking about training again. As I rode today, I enjoyed seeing grasshoppers on the road almost every few seconds. Some of them made an effort to get of my way, others just remained calm, and hoped for the best, but a few launched themselves directly into my wheels...

The weekday training rides are setting with the sun, so need to adjust things completely. I suppose I have to get my mountain bike out, I wonder if loud thunder's trails are finally open after that wind storm trashed the area.

I added Tyree William's blog to my list... he is a die hard cyclo-crosser, so good reading if you need some fall season motivation. He is, allegedly, on the same team as me, though I don't see him until the fall, as he has sworn off all other forms of competitive cycling.

I am planning on riding two centuries this weekend, one on saturday (Challenge ride in wilton, IA), and group club ride on Sunday. Going from 30 miles last week to 250 this week should get me back in some sort of shape to hang strong at a few Cat 1,2,3 cyclocross races. I will use this weekend to officially decide if I am going to 'cross it up' or just keep doing push-ups in the basement.

Lance Armstrong's Poison Ivy during Huricane Ike.

I have poison ivy BAD around my ankles, so haven't had the courage to strap on cycling or running shoes for over a week. The timing is actually pretty good, since my racing season was winding down and the days are too short to get any real weekly mileage in anyway. Otherwise I would be going out of my mind not being able to train.

I had a notion to gain 40 pounds to give some sort of a goal to work towards, as I have opted to aspire to other hobbies this fall other than cyclocross. I figure that if I become overweight, I can begin a 12 week diet plan, striving to lose 3 pounds a week. Without a goal, my motivation is low.

That is sort of retarded (similar to the story of how I got poison ivy), so perhaps I will come to my senses once I begin wearing shoes again (I have worn sandals to work the last few days to avoid irritating the weeping and oozing of the poisonous welts that are speckled across my body like boiling kernels of puss filled toxic bubbles).

I had planned to strap on my recreational riding sandles and ride the 100 mile heartland century with my mom, but hurricane Ike is seems to be creating a moist weekend forecast in the midwest, so we backed out.

Lance Armstrong is planning on competing in the 2009 tour de france? That is sort of inspirational. I liked that he has been quoted as saying that 'age is a myth' regarding the fact that he will 37 in 2009. Also, that when he prepares for a race, he 'lives a monk-like existence'. I can relate to this, for prior to serious goal events I abstain from many pleasurable activities. Unfortunately, he has his pick of chics (olsen twin, sheryl crow, etc.) whereas, I just sit at home by myself like a loser wishing (gasp!) that I was married or something so I had a partner to share in my self-imposed prison during the last two days before the event.

I remember he said he would never race again... well, I guess I am glad he lied about that. He also said he would ride all 7 days of RAGBRAI, 2007... well, he almost made it but left on saturday to see his team win the tour. He's still my hero, and will probably owe my winter indoor training success to his comeback.

Crossing Out Cross

Not a big surprise but the first cyclocross event in Iowa... the Village Cross in Davenport, IA has been cancelled. I let my fitness lapse a little after a four weekend race intensive month in august, so perhaps this would be a good thing, giving me more time to build up... except that was my favorite race of the cross season... close, warm, good course, etc. So, thinking about 'crossing out cross'.

Ok, I probably won't but definately not taking it too seriously... wait, I guess that is sort of the point of cross, something to have fun with, hang on to fitness as too avoid getting too fat in the winter. Any discipline that includes the concept of the 'beer hand-up' in it's hand book can't be all that bad.

Jingle Cross Rock... this is the year end grand finale, UCI event in Iowa City, very very well organized. Chris Horner was special guest last year, also Todd Wells, Jason McCartney of Team CSC has also competed before.

However, the race is sort of going in the wrong direction for me though, as I would be in the Cat 2/3 event instead of the cat 3/4 event of last year. I finished right in the middle along with many of the IA guys. The people that come to this event are from all over and they mean business. I was actually hoping they created a seperate Cat 3 only race to keep the numbers down.

If you don't get in the top few rows at starting, your are sunk, because over 100 riders will be trying to funnel up Mt. Krumpit with their bike's over their shoulders. Sort of reminds me of the Snake Alley Crit in burlington, IA. Well, the turnout is rumored to be already ahead of year's past, so more people in my way. You actually get hit in the face with the rider's tires ahead of you as you climb up this hill.

Actually, I sort of like that part, made it into a contact sport, not for the timid. Blood, guts and glory... or is it Mud, Butts and Blurry. (what?) Anyway, if you don't sign up soon, you will be starting in the back. Unless you are in better shape than those ahead, forget it. On the other hand, that was one of the most memorable races I have ever entered, worth a shot if you haven't done it.

This week of training is looking poor. I will have to resort to some treadmill work because I won't have complete freedom to ride my bike and the days' are getting short... I am thinking though, that many others are in similiar situations with school/work/burnout/Injury, etc, so no need to throw in the towel just yet.

'ah man, this is not looking good'

2008 STATE CRIT CHAMPIONSHIPS...

The title of this blog refers to a thought that popped up often throughout Saturday's race. The first sign of trouble was that the bathroom smelled horrible and there wasn't any toilet paper. The second sign of trouble was that Chris Hansen shaved his facial hair, a cheeky move that I didn't see coming, so I was a bit thrown off. And the third and most important sign of trouble can be noted in the picture below. Me and one other guy were the only ones not with a team.

So, basically five teams were battling it out, with me and the guy from colorbiotics left with some interesting advantages and disadvantages. The race panned out in a very predictable fashion, an excellent display of team tactics.

We raced around in a circle as one by one each of the five teams got someone in the break. There was a brief moment when Bikes 2 You and Mercy Specialized weren't in the break and I was potentially still in the race. My task was obvious, I just had to make sure I stayed near the front so I could bridge up when these last two teams sent up their rider. The picture below is a key point in the race, as Bryan Moritz is seemingly trying to pull the group back together since they weren't represented in the break, and I am simply not feeling like I have it in me to bridge up.

Since no one had on their race radios, Bikes2You wasn't able to conceal their next move, as I over hear Bryan Moritz request that Hansen comes up to the front. I believe he did, but it wasn't a gentle move, it was some sort of attack type deal... not really sure, I just saw a yellow blur off to my left. Apparently, Hansen attacked the group with his teammate in tow... Yes, that's right the dreaded 'shake and bake', as Andrew F. bridged to the breakaway. Crap, now every team is in the break, and even that other single rider from colorbiotics. 'ah man, this is not looking good'.

The race was over, I missed the move I had been waiting for. It happened at a point when I was still recovering from the hill, I just couldn't respond. This B2U rider basically sacrificed himself for his team, by launching a viscious attack, designed to tow up his teamate. Below is a picture of the breakaway group... Seven riders, because Hansen was still hanging on. Race winner Andrew F. is in front.

And now the race becomes, well... a bit humorous. All five of the teams were essentially now in defensive mode to make sure the break sticks (again six guys up ahead, one from each team plus colorbiotics guy). So, if they are blocking and I am the only one without representation in the break, I guess they are sort of blocking me. That sort of sucks, obviously no one else has any incentive to close down the gap... 'ah man, this is not looking good'.

Well, I took a stab at bridging up, probably not noticeable to the untrained eye, it just wasn't going to happen. I was already a bit spent, and I didn't do it early enough, instead pulled the group around for few laps, trying to keep the gap within striking distance, wasting tons of energy. At some point, I resigned the effort, and sure enough the gap widened, as the others were still blocking.

Some attacks started happening, and I almost got shelled from this 'chase' group toward the final laps. I wasn't really interested in posting the DNF, but it was becoming a potential reality as the group was slowly pulling away.

Alas, my race is saved! Just as I was about to pull out of the race and head over to Casey's to get some toilet paper the breakaway caught us. Maybe that sounds odd, but this was to my advantage, because I knew I would be able to tuck into this larger group, therefore needing to use much less energy to 'hang on'.

I wasn't thinking about the sprint at all, I was just finishing the race out... sort of a bad attitude, but I was tired and also confused because the 6 breakaway riders were in the mix. I crossed the line in the ninth position... really? I almost got some cash? I guess the rest of the riders were tired? Perhaps more team tactics? I am sort of an idiot when it comes to crits, so I wasn't sure if our group still had a lap to go since we were one lap down from the breakaway. So, I pedalled for awhile longer just to make sure we were done. We were in fact done, which is unfortunate because I got a huge gap on the riders after they stopped pedalling.

So, all five teams placed one guy in the top five, and that colorbiotics guy(Bryan West) finished sixth. Do I wish I had team support? Well, I guess it would have been nice, things would have turned out differently, however it is also fine to be alone, makes things a bit more straight forward.

Results

1 andrew fagersten - Bikes To You

2 Adam Price - Mercy-Specialized

3 Karl Rosenberg - Hawkeye Bicycle Assoc

4 Kristopher Kunze - Rasmussen Death Squad 5000

5 Jerome Rewerts - ALL9Yards.com Cycling Team

6 brian west - Colorbiotics

7 Steven Robinson - ALL9Yards.com Cycling Team

8 Carson Christen - HBA Racing Team

9 Chad Bishop - Harper's Cycling & Fitness

10 Jimmy Carrico - Iowa City Cycling Club

11 Pete Basso - Rasmussen Death Squad 5000

12 Bryan Moritz - Bikes To You

13 William Greenwood - Bikes To You

14 Brent Mitchell - Rasmussen Death Squad 5000

DNF...

Scott Robinson - ALL9Yards.com Cycling Team

Finn Kolsrud - Bikes To You

Christopher Reed - HBA Racing Team

Kelly Steele - HBA Racing Team

Matt Gumm - ALL9Yards.com Cycling Team

Ian Robinson - HBA Racing Team

Brendan Kealey - Mercy-Specialized

Chris Hansen - Bikes To You

Ok, I got home and really just tried to repress all memories of the event. I feel some measure of success, because I really didn't want to go, but I did, and I finished sort of respectably. Mainly, though, that was more of a down note to end the road racing season on. I will need a few days to recover, mentally. If I do, then it is on to cyclocross, as a means to motivate future workouts.

(photos by moritz)

"The Curse"... is 2nd place the 1st loser?

Above, picture of me displaying my cool new hat, award plaque and 'wannabe triathlete tattoo' mark on my arm.

DU STATE DUATHLON

You have got to be kidding me... even though it was my prediction, I can't actually believe that I finished 2nd Overall again. This is an awesome result, but come on, if I am going to get that close it would be nice to have at least one trophy that recognized a '1st place' performance.. Again, I am thrilled to take home 2nd place but let's quickly take a look at my 'hardware' (trophies) for 2008, in events involving my TT bike, to shed some light on my frustration...

Swing into Spring Duathlon - 2nd place overall

DICE 20k TT Championships - 2nd place overall

Iowa State TT Championships - 2nd place overall

Du-State Duathlon - 2nd place overall

This is all fun and games now, but that is going to be really confusing 20 years from now when I look back at my 2008 results.

Recap - My main goal was to have the fastest bike split and/or be the first one to arrive after T2... mission accomplished. There were 174 people entered, about 90 of which were entered in the Men's Open individual competition. I lined up at the front and began sprinting it out for the first 2 mile run segment. I was slowly but surely overtaken by about 15 people, by the time I got my bike rolling, but I still ran well. It does suck, though ,to be completely 'redlining' heart rate wise as you start what could have otherwise been a rewardingTime Trial.

Here is a link to the 2008 Du-State Duathlon Results.

I was about 1 minute behind some of the lead competitors, as I began pedalling for the 14 mile hilly bike segement. 4 rather steep hills and some flats sections between. (NOTE: some were on teams, so they had a runner and a cyclist, and didn't have to spend time transitioning).

One by one I passed the riders. Jeff Paul was the pre-race favorite so I kept my eye on him. He had a huge head start on the bike, but eventually I passed him about 10 miles in. I needed to get as much of a lead as possible because he is an incredible runner.

Unfortunately, I only had about 30 seconds or so on him (my bike split, then was about 1min 30 seconds faster) so he ran past me about 1/2 mile into the 2 mile final running segment... Ok, I can back up just a second. The second running leg of a duathlon is the most painful athletic situation I ever subject myself to, and today was worse then ever, because I totally let my running training lapse in favor of being a faster cyclist for the august races. I felt like walking and believe I will probably be ranked about 30th or so in the 2nd run.

I was being passed by some of the 'teams', but none of the other individuals were in sight.

So, sort of cool, to think that I still came in 2nd overall, after having a horrible second run. I did beat Jeff Paul up to the 2nd leg, so that means I should be good at the Harvest Hammer, which is a 5k run, then bike tt, without the grueling 2nd run. (still not sure if I can do that one yet, though).

I am glad that is over, it is a painful, and intimidating race, but I don't like to back down from a challenge, especially one that I have put upon myself. So I 'grew a pair' and entered.

At this point, I believe I am free to enter the IA state crit champs this saturday. This duathlon was extremely painful, which makes me think it was a good workout that will make me strong for the crit. The principle of 'training specificity' mandates that I should have spent more time on the bike doing sprints/intervals, etc. in prepartation, but hey, something had to give, and crit racing isn't my specialty. Having said that, if I enter, I am still going to give it a serious GO, and in a crit anything can happen.

Then, Saturday when I get back from Pella, I am going to grab a case of beer, and begin 'preparing' for Cyclo-cross, because my road racing season will be in the books until next spring.

4 Iowa Riders participated in Sunday's Cat 3 National Crit Championships. Results may be of interest (out of 68 finishers, around 100 starters):

Dominc Moraniec - 8th

Carson C. - 22nd

Chris Reed - 51st

Bryan Moritz - 56th

Iowa State Criterium Championships...

Criterium racing is the 'bread and butter' of U.S. amateur cycling, so this is a huge event to settle the score, regarding who is on top of their 2008 Iowa 'crit racing game'. (Pictured above is a shot of me leading the field at the Illinois State Crit Championships this year... and below a shot of Moritz in action...I believe we can expect a similar scene at the IA State Crit). CAT 1/2 RACE... I follow the results of Iowa Cat 1/2 riders both as a fan, and because from time to time I have to race against them. Looking back on some of the bigger races across the region, I feel I can make a prediction about which Iowa Team is strongest in this discipline and therefore has a good chance of getting on the podium and earning a medal (or two).

I put my top three TEAM pics as options in the poll at the right... they are in order of my predicted outcome. All Nine Yards took all three medals last year... Wow! That had to be a bitter pill for the other teams to swallow. However, of the 12 finishers, 7 of them were from All Nine Yards... what is going on with that... they really did have a huge advantage. Lee V (now on Bikes 2 you) got the bronze however, and Sean Walker (Bikes 2 You) wasn't there (or didn't finish, I don't know)... so I maintain that B2U is very skilled in this discipline and will give All Nine Yards much worry.

I would prefer B2U to win, but I have to say All Nine Yards uses their geographic proximity, and racing talent to their best advantage and will be my favorite to earn the coveted Iowa State Crit Gold. Sean Walker... what can you say, he was a top finisher throughout the memorial day weekend races, and even went to Illinois and made the winning breakaway at their state champs. He might not win, but if a breakaway ends up winning, I will be very surprised if he isn't in it.

CAT 3 RACE... Since I am a Cat 3 racer and, therefore, follow the results closer, I created a more specific poll for this race specifying individual riders who I feel are strong candidates for the podium.

Josh Madsen won the race last year, however he is now a Cat 2. Ryan Jacobsen (of Atlas) came in second, so he gets an automatic listing on the poll. Bryan, Steve and Carson have been racing a lot this season, and have even traveled out of state to pursue criterium races. Now they get to bring back some of this experience to possibly 'school' some of us less traveled Iowa guys.

Bryan Moritz, a strong Cat 3 rider for B2U, has two noteworthy racing tactics...

The 'DOMinator' and the 'Shake and Bake'.
The 'DOMinator' involves attacking the field early in hopes of getting in a break, but then quickly relenting to the back of the pack if this doesn't work, to re-emerge to the front at the very last moment to take the win. I may not have explained this quite right, but I do know that is named after Dominic Moraniec, of Atlas.

'Shake and Bake' is only possible if Chris Hansen shows up. Basically a NASCAR tactic, that will sling-shot Bryan across a gap or the finish line. You can see it coming, but there isn't anything you can do about it. I believe Chris even yells out 'shake and bake baby!' after the move, just to rub it in a bit.

So, I have created two 'polls' on the right side. Please vote accordingly. These again are just based on my predictions as a 'fan' of the sport. Also, might generate some good 'banter'.

DU-STATE-DU
My running is way off from this spring, so not feeling as confident about the duathlon this Sunday at Loud Thunder. Maybe I will look at it as practice for this Harvest Hammer run/bike race that seems to have sparked interest from my previous entry. I am not sure I can go, but since they are throwing in free gourmet jelly beans, it is getting tempting.

The Du-State-Du is 2 mile run, 14 mile bike over hilly terrain, and then run 2 more miles. Iowa/Illinois' fastest can do it in around an hour. There is the Pigman Half Ironman Triathlon in Palo, Iowa the same day, so that eases the competition back a bit, and gives me a good shot at getting top three overall. Overall winner even gets $50. Wow, a duathlon that pays out...