Free Agency

Right now I don't know what 2019 looks like.

 I would like to say that I will be racing all season long, but chances are that I will not be. 

I might only do Lumberjack 100. Or not.

I might do the Coast to Coast gravel grinder. Or not.

I might race a full season....or just a single race.

I really don't know.

What I do know is this....as of this moment I am no longer on a team. I will always be part of the Custer team but with 2019 so up in the air I decided to pull back. With my job and all my riding trending further north it has become nearly impossible to get into the shop. Working in GR there are shops all over the place if I need something.

So, while I will always love Dan and the rest of my Custer Cyclery teammates, it is looking like that chapter is closing.

In 2019 I plan to ride ride ride and just see what happens! See you out there!

Lowell 50 (fall edition) Recap

When I signed up for this race my intent was to measure my gains for 2018. I did the spring version at a time of 2:40:00 and I wanted to see how I stacked up this fall. 

Unfortunately my mileage dropped off in September and then tanked in October. Total for the two months before this event was only about 80 miles. Yikes. But, here is my recap.

I awoke to drizzly grey skies with temps in the low 40's. Having packed the night before, with nearly every piece of cycling clothing I own, I only had to load the DUFF and I was off to pick up Matt. We rolled into Fallasburg Park around 8:30 and the lots were already starting to fill. The rain was heavy at times but it was more of just a heavy sprinkle than rain. We picked up our packets and headed back to the burb to get ready. We agreed that it is much better to have plenty of time to warm up and not be stressed before the start of a race.

Once we were geared up it was time for a warm up. I dressed perfect with just tights, a warm under armor and mid weight gloves. The warmup was done and it was to the line. Wave 1 was off and I was realizing that Wave 2 and 3 were mixed heavily. So much so that a wave 3 rider stopped at the start line and created chaos while the wave 2 people rode around. No accidents that I know of, but a nervous way to start.

The roll out was over as we reached the covered bridge, and I was dumped. lol. I knew it would happen so I just rode. With no miles in my legs I knew riding hard would lead to disaster. The first nasty climb was here, and I just couldn't do it. Started to walk. Couldn't get comfortable at all as my heart rate was all over. Around an hour into the race I was finally feeling ok. I was in my endurance pace at a solid 11 mph. lol. At that point I figured I was not going to be anywhere near my Spring result, but I kept on turning. 

I was comfortable riding my own race. A few people around, some passing...passing very few. I just ticked off the miles while my brain went to the normal thoughts of "how did we get here again" and "why the hell do we do this"....along with "next year will be better friend". 

I reeled in a guy that passed me as I was still feeling pretty good. At 20ish miles I started to cramp. Not normal cramps, but when I stood to pedal my quads were firing super hard and tyring to lock. They were fine when seated and pedaling, just not standing. ugh. More fluids. No help from the wind. I realized I was within 5 miles. Started to get excited.

For some reason I always excel at the end of my races. I have that one more boost that I can use. I used it. Then up the road I thought I spied a riding buddy. I couldn't tell, but I was surely getting closer. I had a new goal, catch him. It gave me a mental boost I needed to plod thru as I was closing in on him. I still couldn't tell if it was him, but I was still trying to get him. Turning off the gravel a guy in front of me went down hard on the wet pavement. I felt obliged to stop even though an officer was there. I got him unclipped and off the road. He was gaining his bearings and I said "there really isn't anymore I can do, there is an officer if you need help...good luck" and off I went. I knew if I stopped that my legs would have me writhing on the side of the road sooner rather than later. 

Figuring my chase was over I simply settled back in to my pace. Then i saw that guy again about half way up a long climb. Goal reinstated. I rode as hard as I could and was rewarded by a super fast descent. I was gaining again. Last long climb I could tell he was struggling. At the top of the hill I caught him and as I looked to my left I realized it was my buddy. He realized it was me too, but he was just gassed. I took the next descent hard and hit the next few rollers with all the might I had left before making the last left toward the park. I rolled across the line in 2:45:41. I was only 5:41 slower than my spring race, and I stopped for at least 2 minutes to help the guy that crashed. 

Overall, it was a solid ride. I was even able to walk down the stairs the next morning!

Now, time to get some base miles going and bust out Albert for some snow!

c-C-C-C-CHANGES

Life isn't always glorious. It has a way of getting in the way of riding bikes. 

Last month I had a total of 5 rides for 65 miles.

This month I have a whopping total of 2 rides for 22 miles.

Tomorrow....I will riding 33 at the Lowell 50, er...the Flat river Race series...eh...the Lowell classic gravel road race. Click here to check it out. 

Needless to say I am very rested going into this event. I might have even added a few pounds so I can crush the descents. 

This much I know. My family is going through a major change and I need to get into the habit of taking care of myself. Something that I have never really done in the past. Because of that, I haven't made riding a priority.

What better way to get back on the wagon than to "race". 

I will be there.....all of me. Just hoping to finish. that is the only goal I need.

Back at it

After a three week hiatus I saddled up and headed out for a ride on Friday evening. Knowing I haven't ridden at all in the month of September I decided to stick to a known loop of about 18 miles. The first mile was rough. Legs just didn't want to go. By the second mile my legs started to ease in a bit. There is a stretch on this loop where it is pretty flat and you just turn the pedals for a few miles straight. It is easy to get settled in. I did manage to settle in for the most part, other than the wind gusts that would slow me down. Overall it was a good way to get back to riding.

Saturday was filled with school clothes shopping, but Sunday after grocery shopping I headed out again. I rode almost the same loop as Friday, just a bit longer. I was able to settle in and feel pretty good overall, but I could tell I was riding slow. You can feel that your speeds are lower. I plugged away and ended up with just over 21 miles. I noticed as I was getting close to home that the temps had dropped. It wasn't all that warm when I started, but I am guessing it was under 60 degrees when I got home. Glad the ride wasn't much longer, temps drop fast this time of year. 

At any rate, a good weekend of breaking the legs back in. I did sign up for the fall edition of the Lowell 50 so I need to keep moving and get some good base miles. 

If Tomorrow never comes

This is illogical. It is easy to sit back and say "I will do it tomorrow" or we will plan on "starting tomorrow". But in reality....does Tomorrow even exist? Yes, it does....but do we ever actually get to "tomorrow"? Meaning, when does "tomorrow" actually get here. Because as soon as it seems like "tomorrow" it actually turns into "today" and then the day after "tomorrow" turns into "tomorrow". So, "tomorrow" never actually gets here.

Kind of like when you have nothing you actually have something.....nothing. So you can never actually have nothing because you always have something...even if it is nothing. Make sense?

Anyway, the best time to start is always tomorrow. Because the perpetual cycle continues. We all say we will do it tomorrow when in reality we know we never intend to do it. Tomorrow opens us up to a world of freedom that we don't even realize. Because there is always tomorrow. 

Ok, maybe that was an odd topic. This post is just to say....that I will be starting tomorrow.

S...O....L....O....

Maybe Jason Derulo was onto something here....

....riding solo.

Now, the meaning of the song is referring to his relationship status, but this post is in regards to riding Solo versus riding in a group or with a few friends. Arguments can be made for both sides and each has it benefits as well as drawbacks. After my "stranglehold" post I really started to think about what it like for me to ride alone versus getting dumped out of a group.

Early on in my riding career I always rode with someone. Whether is was one person or a group of friends we were always together. All of us were about the same speed and skill level so it wasn't a big deal to ride 15-20 miles and see minimal separation. As time wore on I was on the stronger end of the group, before most of us stopped riding altogether. Each of us had our own reasons, but we were not riding solo...we were not riding at all.

Then I started a new job and started talking with Hoppe about riding again. Yes, that is his real name. We started riding together and tried to make it a weekly thing. Then we added a person or two to the group before eventually I changed jobs and the riding again slowed down.

I kept riding when I could. Mostly alone, because I wasn't a strong rider. I then got a job where I could join the SWMMBA group ride every week at Custer. It is entirely different riding with 20 people versus riding with one or two. The pace changes and surges and it can be hard to find a rhythm. I wasn't a strong rider. I would head out with the "medium" paced group and get dropped like a bad habit. No worries, as most of the time they would regroup. But I did have those days where I would get dropped, and simply finish riding alone.

A few years later I was still pretty gun shy about joining a group ride. C.D. talked me into joining a road group out of Holland from Velo City before they moved to River. I was nervous because I did have an understanding that riding in a group on the road is entirely different than a group in the woods. Speeds are higher and you are just generally closer to other riders. I tried it one week and rode towards the back of the pack for the most part. I was cutting my teeth and getting a feel for how things worked. It didn't take long to realize that being at the back is a bad idea because you get caught in the rubber band effect. Of course, being at the front is calmer. On the second week I went to the front and it was a totally different type of ride. I still got dropped.

In 2015 I was training pretty hard for LJ100. My mindset was way different and there was no such thing as a casual ride. Each ride I was on had intent. Whether solo or in a group....I made the pace mine. We did a group ride at Yankee where a handful of people joined. I wasn't the fastest but I was riding multiple laps, controlling my speed. We did a Kal-Haven ride where Jay asked what the pace should be. He is stronger than me and he knew how to push my limits for a better training ride. There were people though, that I didn't really want to ride with during this time. I was stronger and faster and riding with intent. They wanted to have casual group rides and chat. I had to ride solo most of the time mainly for scheduling, but also because I had a different purpose.

These days, I am the weakest link. No reason to sugar coat it. I am heavy and slower than I would like to be. The guys I ride with now easily leave me behind. I got split for a group a few weeks ago and never saw any of them again. My team had to wait for me at the tops of hills last weekend. A few weeks ago before Holland 100 I was doing my best to hang on in the gravel ride out of Zeeland. Time after time I get crushed and it just starts to wear on me mentally.  Every time I see people disappear over a hill it just demoralizes me. So much in fact that I tell them to just go, and I will fend for myself. What starts as a group turns into a group with me chasing. It isn't fun for them to wait, and it isn't fun for me to get dumped.

So will I still ride with people and get dumped out of the group like a purge from Dave Matthews tour bus....probably. I know eventually riding with them will help me get faster. But right now, in this moment I actually prefer riding alone. Mentally it gives me a break from everything going on. Physically, I can just ride for the enjoyment of riding instead of trying to turn myself inside out to keep up. In time, I will be back where I was when I was waiting for the group to catch up. Until then, you will probably see me 'riding solo'

Getting a stranglehold on the "weakest link"

Sunday I had a change of pace and slept in a bit before going to ride. A team meeting was scheduled for 9:30 with a ride to follow. The air that morning was heavy with fog and a soaking mist. The drive to Fort Custer was uneventful but very slow as the good citizens of this State were driving well under the speed limit even with solid visibility. Anyway, I got there on time, and snapped the pic above from on top of Eagle Lake. As you can see...or not see....the fog was dreary. 

Now on to the ride. There was only 5 of us. We started off innocently enough, but Jay was at the lead. The pace proved to be too much for me. I was hitting the corners a little hotter than I wanted, and was learning how my tires handle "wet" conditions. The trail had seem some rain and it was tacky. The top layer wasn't quite seated back to the rest of the surface and I could feel my tires peeling thru a a layer in some corners. The sand was packed and wet still, but my tires were grabbing and it was throwing the tracking of the bike off. I have noticed this handling difference before, but it still caught me off guard a few times, and I slowed down. But, that was just an excuse.

I got dumped. Hard. Again. Not too surprising considering who I was riding with, but frustrating to say the least. I would round a corner and they were stopped waiting for me. They would roll on when I came into view. I was essentially riding alone. No worries....as the weakest link I am frankly used to this situation. It sucks...but it is a position that I have firmly in my grasp. 

After our loop I filled my bottle and headed out again. I rode the green to the red and a full red loop. Jay was going to chase me after he got his bottle refilled, so I knew he would be coming eventually. I just rode my pace. Comfortable, not fast. I settled in and the miles kept slipping by. I say slipping because the rocks and roots were very slick still with the water in the air from the fog. It made for an interesting mix of sounds as the tires rolled over and slipped off the rocks.

Overall, it was a good ride. Slow or not, I was out there.

Whoops, been a while

In typical SC fashion I have let life get the best of me. Things have been busy and hectic as always. 

July ended as a solid month of riding for me. About 180 miles for the month. Not spectacular, but with all the chaos I am happy with that distance. Even headed to TK Lawless and rode a few solid laps down there. Love that trail.

This month has been fairly quiet. I did take my youngest to Luton Park for the first time. She had fun, but it was super hot and she faded pretty quick. Fun to watch her tackle new things and try things she never tried before. I will tell you this much, if I can keep her riding she will be a fast little bugger. She started to pull away from me on a climb when she really put her mind to it. I can teach her how to descend, but climbing is where she will thrive.

Otherwise, not a whole lot of riding going on. Plan on heading out tonight and getting my legs functioning again. Just hope my lungs can keep up. We have had some smokey days from the wild fires out west. Yes, we are seeing effects of the wild fires burning out in California here in SW Michigan. Crazy huh. 

Need to get some solid base miles because I will be headed North to Marquette in a few weeks. There, I will surely be the weakest link. I don't think I will care much, as I can just ride my pace and get back when I get back. Watching videos and chatting to people have me pretty stoked to head up there. Haven't ridden up there since Ore To Shore many many years ago. 

So....here I am....still turning the pedals slowly. 

Holland 100

The day started off sluggish. I drug myself out of bed later than intended. I planned on meeting some people for breakfast, but I was already running late. I decided to have oatmeal and was slightly disappointed when the container was empty. I loaded up the Defy in a light sprinkle and headed out. I swung to McDonalds for an oatmeal and I pulled in at 5:55am. The store, that used to be 24 hours, was not open yet. I headed North toward Holland and landed my oatmeal before heading to Herman Miller Greenhouse. I pulled in behind and parked next to my friend Dan T. and headed to grab my packet. I got a location on Jay, Dan T, Matt, Nate, and Lisa then it was time to go.

I was feeling pretty relaxed about the ride. Knowing it was going to be tough, simply because 100 miles and the word "easy" are not in the same category. We started off and started to settle in. Riding on the road in a group is a lot of fun. Especially when the group is working together. Before I knew it, we were at the first aid station 11.5 miles in. Quick stop and we were off again.

We started to find a few climbs on this loop. We passed a guy pulling his disabled son on a trailer. We all told them good job and they returned the gesture. Then it was a solid downhill and Matt took the lead. He was setting a solid pace and I was holding his wheel the best I could. Lisa and Nate were tucked in too...enjoying the work Matt was putting in. It was a fun segment, and I made a comment about how cool it was to find a draft like that.

We made a turn and started a climb. My mind started to wander. I slowed down. I started a second climb, and was spit out of the group. I mentally checked out. I went from confident at 19-20 miles per hour in a pace line to riding alone, shattered. We were about 20 miles in and I was done. The gang waited up...but I was mentally blown. Lisa came back and chatted with me, giving me encouragement to push on. I kept moving.

Next climb, I was for sure done. Groups that we had blown past were catching me like I was sitting still. Mentally there was no way I could continue for another 75 miles. Lisa dropped back again and tried to get me to jump on her wheel, but I wasn't interested. I was done. The gang tried to keep me going. Saying we could ride slow, just keep going. I emotionally didn't have the energy to continue. We got to an intersection and I checked my phone to see where we were. I took a left when the rest of them went straight.

I started the long 11ish mile trip back to the car, miserable and defeated. I have no clue how long it too me to get back, but I was totally checked out. I finally got back to the greenhouse. I rode 37 miles because I had to. I wanted to ride 100 but the day just wasn't meant to be. I missed out on 3 of my friends completing their fist centuries, because my brain quit.

Live to ride another day.

Fast.....a highly relative term

"Dude is fast"

"that guy is a strong rider"

"he got so much faster"

These are all things I heard on our ride last night. While the comments were all correct, the word "fast" is still a relative term. I myself can be "fast" or "strong". It depends on what benchmark is being used.

I am not "fast" when compared to Matt Acker. He is a qualified "strong and fast" rider. A pro. I cannot compare myself to him because we are on different levels. My benchmark is much lower. Does that mean I am slow? Well, yes and now. Slow is another relative term that is used when describing a ride or a rider. I use the word slow all of the time, simply because I ride with people that are "faster" than me. 

My ride last night felt slow, but in reality was a full mile per hour faster than my last ride. Sure, not "fast" but for me it was considered "fast". And that is the qualifier. The word "me". As a rider I get "faster" and "stronger" every time I get on the bike. So my benchmark has to be only "me" and where my levels are. Put me up against my old times and I am faster. Put me up against riders in the Sport Clyde class and I am "slow". 

Just know this much....on my ride last night I rode at my pace. I was not with the fast group and I was not with the slow group. I was in between. My ride was fast for me, but not fast enough to keep up with the fast group. To the group behind me it probably seemed like I was riding fast. Again, relative.

So what is my point? What is the takeaway? You simply have to be where you are. Fast...slow...it doesn't matter. Ride to your abilities. In my daughters therapy they use a very good motto: 

Everyone is doing the best that they can. Everyone can do better.

Right now, my fast is the best it can be. But I can do better and be faster. 

Weekend update

With the holiday on Wednesday and a hectic schedule I wasn't able to get out until Friday. I met Nate and Pears for some mileage at Luton.

The weather was gorgeous on Friday. Warm, but not hot. I was feeling pretty good and I decided to attack the first climb. I stood and mashed, taking the first climb in a good clip. We pushed on, and I was feeling better the further we went. I guess there is something to be said for resting for a week between rides. ha.

I know I was feeling better because we were putting a gap on Pears. We would attack a section and then wait for her before going and attacking the next section. On the Black loop I was feeling it and took off riding about as hard as I could. Nate stuck with me (for obvious reasons) but I did give him a peek at what I am actually capable of. I heard him say "keep going man, keep going". I felt fast as hell until I had to slow down and recover. It just felt good that I can actually go fast, even if for a short period of time.

Nate and I headed out for another lap and I felt good again. I was pushing the downhills as much as I could and riding strong on the sections between. Actually set a PR on "all loops" so that means I am getting stronger. I will take it. One thing to show I was moving faster was the descent after the orange loop. You can get some serious speed down that hill and there is a right hand bender at the bottom. I knew I would have to commit so I dove into the corner letting my shoulder brush the branches on the inside of the turn. As soon as I hit the dark gravel I could feel the bike start to break loose. I was prepared for it so it was a controlled slide, but a slide around the corner is something that I don't generally do...simply because I don't have the speed. Felt good. We finished up with dinner at Perrin Brewing Company and then made the long drive home.

Saturday my oldest wanted to ride, so I took out Albert for a spin. The D.U.F.F. has a few broken spokes so the fatty needed to be dusted off. We just did a little tooling around the woods and that was enough, I had a long ride planned for Sunday.

Sunday I loaded up Albert and headed to Kal-Haven. I wanted to do 50-60 miles as a tune-up for the Holland 100 on this coming Saturday. When I reached 20 miles I knew that number would be 50. A 38 pound fat bike under constant pedaling becomes very heavy. Mentally I checked out because I was riding alone and was already getting tired from the previous two days worth of miles. I hit my 25.2 miles and turned right around, knowing that the rest of the ride was going to be tough. I pushed on and eventually made it to Bloomingdale where I stopped to refuel with a banana and some water. Then I rode the last 18 miles back. I didn't have anyone pass me until about 10 to go. They passed me like I was sitting still and made it clear they didn't want any company. I kept them in sight thru Gobles before the turned off to their car. I slowly inched my way back toward Kalamazoo and eventually arrived at the parking lot. 50.5 miles on a tank of a fatty. Awesome way to start a Sunday.

Next up is Holland 100. We are leaving at 7am with a few people that have never done a century before. I can't wait to see how awesome they feel when they accomplish this goal!

Sweat Shaker Recap...NO DEER.

I got all my stuff ready the night before. It included lots of extra water and a hydra pack because it was gonna be hot. I was up on time and ready to go out the door. When I opened the door the humidity took a swing right at my face. It was 5:45 am and it was already 80 degrees and high humidity. It was alright though.....I borrowed a 2up bike rack from Dan and was taking my car...that blows stupid cold air. 

Off I went towards Grand Rapids where I stopped and picked up Matt. Originally Nate was going, but work got in the way. So Matt and I loaded up for the 2 hour drive north to Harrison and the site of Mid-Michigan Community college. Thankfully the trip was uneventful. Last time I was here was the trip when Jay, Lisa, and I got attacked by a deer...taking a huge toll on us before we ever arrived. Not going to lie, I had high heart rate as I passed that area three years after the event. Moving on.

We got there plenty early and got our numbers. Then we just kind of stood there and looked at each other because we had over an hour before the start. Eventually we got ready and met up with Easton. He is one of my younger teammates and his grandpa brought him up to race. The three of us headed out to warm up on the course. It was everything that I remembered. Flowy but bumpy singletrack. The warmup was short because we had a racer meeting, but it didn't take much to break a sweat. Thinking about riding was more than enough.

The Sport Clydes and Fat Bikers started in the same wave. Seems ironic doesn't it? lol. Anyway, the start was fast, as expected I got dumped right at the first corner. I was riding with one guy in my class but the rest of the group was gone. We got about a mile in and one of the top guys in our class was stopped with a flat. The guy in front of me stopped to help (they are teammates) and I pressed on. With everyone starting at 10:30 I had a ton of traffic pushing past me. I was giving them plenty of room but I was also making them call their passes. I refuse to just let someone by unless they call it out, or at least say "when you get a chance". I notice some racers tend to just expect me to move. #timetolearnhowtopass

The course if fun. I like it lot because the climbs are not too terrible. The downhills are solid and the flow is pretty good. Granted, the way the course was set up there were some hairpin turns, but that is part of the adventure. Eventually I stettled in and found my rhythm. I was comfortable riding, but if I stopped the heat immediately started to surround me. It felt like climbing into an oven. The open areas with no tree cover felt the same way. I actually passed a few people the further I got in. I was feeling "quick" about 8 miles in and used that the best I could.

With about 2 to go I reigned in a guy on a fat bike. I passed him, but he caught me on a climb and I decided to just settle in behind him. I wasn't seeing anyone from my class coming so I figured I was safe. On one section he must have bolted because he was just gone. I started riding harder to figure out where he went. It was pretty odd to me that he got that much of a gap, but he must have pushed a section that I didn't. Then I spotted him and I was starting to recognize that we were near the finish. I pushed the last climb and watched him turn left towards the school. Last descent out of the woods. I hit the opening and pushed to the final stretch. 

I could see him and it appeared he wasn't 100% sure where the finish was, so I pounced. I jumped on the pedals and buried myself in a sprint to the finish. I passed him with maybe 30 yards to go. It felt good to hear the R2R guys all cheering for me. Especially because they kick my ass so much. lol. After I finished I dumped the rest of my hydra pack over myself. It felt amazing. Then I headed to the car and continued to pour more cold water just to tell my body to slow down. 

I ended up in 8th place out of 9. Not last. I guess that is a small victory. The big victory was not needing a trip to the hospital for dehydration or heat stroke. 

On a side note....there were 4 guys racing that were over the age of 70. The eldest statesmen was none other than Neil Scharphorn Sr. at the spry age of 76. Their times....all faster than mine. Well done to you gents.

A continual work in progress

The weather kept things interesting this past week. Add in all my normal scheduling constraints and that landed me on the trail Friday evening. Nate and I headed up to Merrell for some trail riding.

The parking lot was fairly typical with about 10-15 cars and no riders in sight. We headed out to start our loop. After getting thru the first section we started the Mix Master section to the picnic table. The dirt....was amazing. I was getting all kinds of grip in the corners which was making me want to push some. Mind you, push the corners....not push the ride. We continued on to Wynalda and more of the same conditions...HERO dirt. After a solid first lap Nate headed home. I threw my leg back over the bar for another lap.

I found my rhythm and was just enjoying the ride. I took Phazer again when I saw another rider take Siren. I beat him to the intersection. lol. I was crusing pretty good and he must have been surprised by the section. Anyway, he passed me right away and I made my way back to Wynalda. Not my favorite loop, but the entire trail was just great. When I came off Wynalda I made my way back to the shortcut up to the picnic table where Phaser and Siren merge with Mix Master. I was chatting with a few guys about riding and they were interested in Siren. I led, and crushed them on the descent. Downhill is my friend. lol. I finished up my ride and was feeling pretty good.

Sunday I headed up to Cannonsburg Ski area to meet Nate and Pears. I don't know why I let him talk me into riding there....so much climbing. I guess the only way for me to climb faster is to climb...and get faster. The first climb gassed me, and I was ready to just bomb back down the hill, load up my bike, and go home. lol. I didn't, but that thought crossed my mind. I recovered and pressed on. Again, the dirt was fantastic. SO much grip made me want to ride hard...until the next climb. lol. 

We chugged away and eventually reached the downhill to the finish. I wanted to ride more, but the legs were not in the mood. We all headed home to start the rest of our days.

Overall it was a good couple days of riding. Nutrition....that took a slight hit this week as I struggled to eat healthy all week. I would eat one healthy meal, and then pile in a few cookies or some chips. This is ok, as long as I don't go back to old habits. I started off today back on track and plan to continue thru the week. So while I did gain this week, it was only 2 lbs. That could simply be water gain, or the junk that I ate. The good part is that I lost for the previous 5 weeks so I am still ahead of the game and my mind is right. I just didn't have a good week, that doesn't mean I am totally derailed. 

Hanson Hills Challenge Recap

As I was awaking from my slumber I could hear the rain pouring on the roof. The sound was so intense that I could hear it over my window air conditioner. I thought right then....just stay in bed. Instead I got up and checked the weather while waiting to hear back from Nate and Matt. Knowing Matt was pre-registered I figured he would go regardless. The weather looked like it would clear, so I loaded up in the rain. I put The D.U.F.F. inside the suburban and started the journey north. 

It was raining the whole way to Grand Rapids. I pulled off the highway and we loaded 2 more bikes in the suburban before continuing the long jaunt to Grayling. The rain let up as we got north of Grand Rapids and we traveled along the edge of the dry line the whole way to Kalkaska. The trip up was uneventful, which is always good. We rolled into Hanson Hills just after 9am and started to get the lay of the land. 

First indicator, the area looked like Cannonsburg Ski area, just a bit longer and taller. The temps were in the mid 50's and the sky was super grey, but no rain was falling. Matt took off at 10, so Nate and I wandered around a bit while we waited for him to finish. 

Final descent to the finish area

Then it was our turn. I lined up with 6 other guys to start my 2 laps. I was feeling pretty relaxed and my plan was to jump on JC's wheel and see what happened. It was time to go and the group started toward the first climb. Pace was as expected, quick. I am not a fast starter so I just found my place toward the back and counted as we hit the single track. I was in 5th. So far so good....but a long way to go. 

The first climb is not as bad as I thought it would be...until it was. I stalled on the last steep section and had to walk the rest. JC rolled past putting me into 6th place. I jumped in behind him and figured I would hold on as long as I could. He was having a rough go today. Some adverse effects from some cold medicine. That helped me hold on! I rode on his wheel the whole first lap. I could feel that I was stronger on the climbs but I wanted to make sure I was actually feeling stronger, and not blow up only to get dumped on the second lap.

Photo by Jack Kunnen

JC and I passed the line together at the end of the first lap. He moved over and I took the lead. Once we hit the first climb I started to open a gap. I got to that same little kicker and had to get off. When I looked back I could see him coming, but I had no interest in waiting. I forged ahead with all I had. I kept looking over my shoulder, fully expecting to see JC coming, but nobody ever did. I rode alone for all but about a mile of that second lap. Climbing hills with what little power I had left. Then the wind started to pick up. I was trying to see the sky but it didn't look dark. The wind got gustier and then the rain started. A sprinkle at first. So I put down what power I had left to get to the finish. I saw the last climb and I was slowly making my way to the top when the skies opened. I bombed down a descent and then over the last rise before breaking out to the finish area. Head down, mashing the pedals and the rain just pouring. Not a warm rain, cold. I rounded the last corner and could hear the awesome troop of girl scouts cheering me on, so I stood and mashed to the finish line.

Not really caring where I finished at this point I rode right to the truck and we got the bikes inside. I changed and headed to check my finish. 5th place on a very tough course and a rival defeated (even if by medicine) made for a very good day on the bike for me. The ride home was long, but the day was well worth the trip. Nate finished 1st in his class, Matt took a solid 2nd in his class, and I cracked the top 5 for the first time in a long time. 

I did move into top 5 in CPS points as well. I know that will change, but if I can keep up the top finishes I might just be ok!

Memorial day ride

I planned on riding with Nate and Pears on Sunday....but my body had other plans and decided to complete a full purge. Enough about that...onto Memorial day.

I wanted to ride and any type would have been good for me. So I put out some feelers and my teammate DW said he was doing a Kal-Haven from Kalamazoo to Bloomingdale and back. That would be about 36 mile flattish ride on the old peat gravel rail trail. We picked up another rider in Brian. He has LJ100 in a few weeks, and needed some miles. Company is always better on a ride. 

We started at 7am, because forecast was saying mid 90's for a high. I was on The D.U.F.F., Brian on his FS Salsa, and DW on his FS salsa with Plus tires. We figured it would just be a cruise. In fact, we all stated "we are on mountain bikes so we are not riding fast".

We started off and I just found a comfortable pace to ride. DW dropped in behind me and Brian followed. I was comfortable with the pace...that was between 15 and 16mph. I want to say that is what we averaged the whole way to Bloomingdale. It was a solid pace the whole way there.

Then we headed back. Strangely enough I found a rhytm again and just pedaled until I heard DW say "hey, I hate to break your cadence but we need a bathroom break". To be honest, at this point I wasnt sure if they were with me or if I was riding alone. All flat and gravel means you just kind of cruise and hit your own pace, with the potential to leave people behind. I know I am not strong enough to do that, but I was holding a steady pace.

After the short break we were back at it and making the final climb up to Kalmazoo. I could feel my heart rate climbing, but I just kept chugging away. We rolled into the 10th street lot with an average of 14.3 mph for 36 miles. Solid. They both thanked me for leading the way and we went about our days.

Sunday a few of us are headed to Hanson Hills where I will do my best to imitate a fast rider. There is a lot of climbing so it doesn't suit me well, but turnout seems to be low so my chances of a higher finish are better.  Keep riding!

10 days off....

10 days off the bike equates to nothing good. After the Stampede it has been a strange mix of odd weather and general tasks that have kept me off the bike. I had a window open on Wednesday evening so I headed out on the road bike.

I headed out of town and was feeling okay. Not really sure how far I wanted to ride I stuck pretty close to town with a chance to turn back at any given time. After a few miles I decided to just keep going. I headed out of town and out towards the dam. I wasn't riding hard, and my heart just wasn't into it. It was good to be riding, but mentally it was far from a training ride. It was simply...a ride. Rolled into the house with about 20 miles at a sub 15mph pace. Like I said, just a ride.

Last night a few of us headed to Luton Park. We were hearing that the trail was in awesome shape so I was pretty excited. Nate and I were the first ones there so we geared up and rode the Blue (inner loop only) before everyone got there. That little loop is pretty flat with a few twisty areas. Other than almost taking my head off on a low tree it was a good little warmup.

Mike, Matt, and a few others joined and we headed out for a full loop. The funniest thing I see is random skid marks on the trail. Areas where people get off kilter a bit and mash the brake levers putting their bike into an out of control skid off the trail. Tonight was no different. There is a little root and you have to be going left when you go over it. There was a deep skid into a stump towards the right. Looked a fairly serious "oh shit" moment for someone. 

Luton was dialed. Corners were sticky. No sand. Grip on every climb. Awesome. The best part of Luton is the variety. Each loop is a little different and has unique offerings. The yellow has a few gnarly (ish) corners. The black loop is longer and has a good mix of climbing and fast descents that feel like a roller coaster. The red weaves back and forth making you fee like you are close to other riders even though Mike was pulling away from me. Then you ride a fast off camber flow section to the green loop. One out and back then a little climb and you are done. Great trail.

I did have a slight problem. After the first lap my legs didn't want to work anymore. It didn't stop me from doing another lap, but the legs were blown. Taking 10 days off then putting miles into them all at once took its toll. I was slow, but it was still good to be out there!

Reports are that Island Lake on Sunday is a go! Meaning....I will be in Brighton attempting to be fast!

Island Lake up next

Since the Fort Custer Stampede I haven't touched a bike. With a lot going on a few missed opportunities....life happens. 

After lots of waffling I have decided to head to Island Lake this coming Sunday. It is a course that appears to suit me....flat. There looks to be a nasty climb in the beginning and another mid-way thru the lap but otherwise a pretty good course for me!

My goal...will be to finish. Right now there are 7 registered so my real goal will be NOT LAST. This will be my first time riding at Island Lake and at 18 miles I know I don't stand a chance for the podium. It would be a stretch to say top 5, but how cool would that be? Shit happens right?

Nate, Lisa, and I intend to head over and join a few of my team members. Those two will be shooting for the top step. Cool to have Nate out racing now, and to see him excited to be competing. We will be keeping an eye on the weather right now as it does call for storms in the PM.

Otherwise....I hope to turn in a few miles tonight on the road and then head to Luton tomorrow for more! Friday will be a day off and then maybe a road ride Saturday morning before a full day of knocking items off the honey-do list.  

This warm weather and sunshine makes me happy!

remember, remember....

No...not Guy Forks and the 5th of November. What this post is about is remembering the feeling....

....that feeling of...

...smashing a climb....

....zipping past trees....

...the cool water of a creek crossing splashing on your legs....

...the major tan lines...

...the roar of the crowd...

...passing another rider...

....being fast...

...crossing the finish line...

....and stepping onto the podium.

It has happened before.....and it will happen again.

2016 was the last time I did. The Treetops race I podium by default. There were only 3 of us...and I got crushed....by a lot. But, I was there....and I did earn that podium spot. One of the toughest courses I have ever ridden. Just so much climbing.

TK Lawless was the last time I stepped on the podium. I mustered a 2nd place and actually beat someone that day. Unfortunately, this was the last race that I finished. I declined fairly rapidly after this race and fell off the proverbial wagon.

So we reach 2018 and I finally hit the reset button on racing. I knew going in that I wouldn't be competitive for a couple of reasons. First, as I mentioned before, I am very heavy. That is like dragging an anchor around and trying to be fast. Sure I am gaining strength, but I still have to haul this mASS up all the hills. Second, I didn't have many miles last year. With a fading 2016 and less than 700 miles in 2017 I am just not ready to mix it up for a top spot.

Setting and reaching a goal for Lowell was exciting. Setting and narrowly missing a goal for Barry Roubaix was acceptable. Then reality set in with a crushing DFL at Yankee. Beaten but not bruised I toed the line again the following weekend at the Fort Custer Stampede and had a very solid ride. 

Wait...where was I going with this...oh....remember!

My point is this....with racing comes a different level of riding. I had forgotten this. During a race I am able to dig deeper and push harder than on just a normal ride. The first two gravel races were just that...find a pace...and ride. Yankee was where it started to come back. The thrill of racing and having people blast past. Which is also a stark reminder of my fitness level. I got passed a lot at Yankee because the course doesn't suit my riding style....or climbing prowess. 

Fort Custer is a better place for me to test because it is flat. At the start I was able to keep up with part of the group for a solid portion of the ride. Being rusty made me push harder than I probably would have. I didn't want to blow up and I finally remembered that a few miles in before I settled down into my eventual pace. Tactics....I had to remember how to race again. How to use the rush of the crowd to push me on. How to do a bottle handoff. Crazy right? But it started to come back to me and by the second lap at Custer I was comfortable and started to push where I knew I could. 

My mentality for this season has been to progress from Lowell 50 in the spring to Lowell 50 in the fall and see how it measures up. Watching my team and friends stand on the podium has helped me gain that spark for riding that I have been missing for so long. I have found myself looking at the calendar to see what is next. Researching lap times and watching youtube videos of the next event. Looking to see who will be there and wondering how I will actually finish. 

I know right now I am a long way from standing on a podium. What I have are the memories of being there to drive me to do better. To lose the weight and ride more. To regain that mental toughness I had when I pushed through 100 miles of Lumberjack in 2015. I will continue to try. And who knows, one of these times I might just get to step on one of those steps again....

Nutrition....ugh

Been fighting off posting about this for a while...but the proverbial cat is essentially out of the bag. I have been to 4 events this year...and people have...um...noticed. Don't get me wrong, I have always been a big guy. Well...not always...just for a long time. Lets go back in time....

When I got married I was 180 pounds. I had people tell me I looked sick. :(

When my oldest daughter was born I weighted 185 pounds. I was showing abs and feeling awesome. But, I broke my foot and shot back to 220. 

Then....I started a job where I was in the car for over 90 minutes each way and we ate at a buffet nearly every day of the week. I shot from 220 to to 270 in a few short years.

I faded back to 250 and started riding again. Got down to 238 once, then back up to 250.

I did LJ100 at a solid 250 but I was strong. 

Then....I started creeping up. Winter was always adding 15-20 pounds. Then I didn't lose any, so I went up again to 270.....then 280....then.....ugh....290...

It was time for new clothes. One day I stepped on the scale and I was 296 pounds. That was Christmas day of 2017. Over 100 pounds heavier than I was when I got married. Unacceptable.

So I started lose some weight. Riding again. As of yesterday I am down 13 pounds and at 283 pounds. I know I have a long way to go...and I am hopeful I found a solution. A few people in my family are joining in and we are going to get this weight off. The weight wasn't found overnight, and it won't be lost overnight. Marathon...not a sprint.

So the title....wow was I offtrack. Nutrition was the point of this and I took a deep tangent. But it brought me back to this point that I know I need to get my nutrition dialed in. It has always been my biggest crutch out of every crutch I try to use. Because I have gained so much weight I am actually concerned about my health...and my life. We have lots of stress and I use food to sooth that. I find myself eating and telling myself...don't do it...but stuff it in anyway. And yeah, after the race I had ice cream. But I skipped the donuts. Some days are better than others.

This week has started off well. Sunday was solid, other than the ice cream. Monday was dialed. Tuesday has been good too. I need to get thru 2 weeks of healthy eating to create it as a habit instead of a choice. Its not like healthy food is gross. We eat good on this plan and it works for you with where you are and where you want to be. No magic bullets, just healthy eating habits. Learn. Eat. Exercise. Healthy. 

I have a long way to go. Longer than before. But now that people have seen me out and about and know how big I am...I can't hide it. Now it is time to put the work in and get rid of this anchor that kills me on climbs. Descents...well....major advantage. lol. Lets ride.....

Fort Custer Stampede Recap

Since this is considered our "home race" I decided I better show up. Just like the previous weekend I had talked myself into showing up and out of showing up multiple times. This was one reason I never posted up a goal. Watching BikeReg.com leading into the race I figured I might as well go...there was only 10...wait...11 signed up. Plus, home race...I know the course...and even though I know I will get my ass handed to me....it is a freaking blast to be out there.

Before the start we did our normal mingling and chatting. Then it was time to warm up. A few spins of the pedals and it was time to line up. I haven't been to this race (...hey...I have a daughter that was in dance competitions...so bite me) in a few years and the course changed a bit. Not much, but some. The Start is still at Eagle lake and still goes blasting past the building on the beach before heading out towards red. It was time to go.....and off we went. 

14 of us this time around. By the time we passed the building there was only 2 people behind me. We hit the first straight section before diving back into the woods and the leaders were already gone. Statement...made. I knew I wouldn't hang with them, but was happy to see some of my rivals in striking distance. We rode in a group of about 6 before things started to stretch out in the trenches. I snuck around a guy before the switchback..and then the next class started to bear down on us.

I was pushing my limit and had to remind myself that this wasn't a time trial. With taking a few years off it is amazing what you forget. I felt like I was riding too hard and backed it down just a bit. A few miles in Brain passed me with a stream of "old guys". By Old guys I mean the 70+ sport riders that were hauling the mail. This was in Grannys Garden and I didn't want to hold them back so I bailed out and let the train pass. Then I started the chase back on a guy I thought was in my class.

He held me off for a long time, and the miles slowly ticked away. I got to the boat launch climb and just spun away until I reached the top, reminding myself again that I had another full lap. This section goes pretty quick before jumping off the trail and heading back to the start. I was feeling pretty good, but hadn't seen another person from my class in a while...other than the 2 I had already passed. I made it to the finish area and I see Tim. Tim is Co-founder of Territorial Brewing...one of our sponsors. I reached out and gave him an entustastic high five as I passed. Then I spotted Chelle with my second bottle. Successful handoff and I was off for my second lap.

Now my issue was wondering when the beginners were going to catch me. They were staged when I came thru and I was confident they would be streaming past me. Into the trenches and over the camel humps, I spy a guy from my class. As we head down to the creek I can hear the gang of people cheering like crazy. The guy in front of me hiccups and dabs, I take the outside line and mash the hill to get a small gap on him. I could see him every switchback and every little turn. He was just there. Sometimes close, sometimes just a bit back. A few of the sport women reeled us in and passed but none of the beginners yet.

Just keep pushing. I was baked. Cramps started in my foot. I was dehydrated the day before and was about to pay the price. Just keep going. The miles were ticking away and cleared Erin's climb for the second time. NICE. Go dude, there that guy is again. Gotta drop him. Down the rough switch back and up out of the gully I see him again. He is a climber....better than me. My only chance is to dump him on the flat and survive on the climbs. 

A few more people pass and I can feel the end coming. The long climb out of green and I then a sweet descent. I hear "hey buddy". It was Nate, the first beginner to catch me. He was gone and I had to focus on the rooty climb. Nailed it, drink and go....dangit...this dude won't quit. I push into the switchback down to Eagle lake and try to ride hard to the boat launch. This climb was going to hurt, the last climb. I had to spin. Another beginner smashes past me and I hear a rather unruly troop screaming at the top of the hill. All words of encouragement as I plodded by. Quick drink, don't see that guy....time to go...almost done.

Last punch and then the pavement towards the finish. I cross the road and am on the home stretch. I burn my last match and cross in 11th place out of 14. Instantly started to cramp and had to peel my shoes off. Thankfully I was done. 

Thanks to my family for coming to cheer me on. Big thanks to Chelle. Without your pushing I would have quit a long time ago. Love you woman. Also, thanks to all my friends, family, and teammates that cheered me on during this race. Good job to all of you too!

As always, thank you to our team sponsors:

Custer Cyclery

Territorial Brewing

Giant Bicycles

Kong Coolers

Yankee Springs TT Recap

Yankee is generally the first MTB race of the year. With over 700 racers, it is usually one of the bigger events. This year didn't disappoint with nearly 800 people showing up to test their early season legs. I got to Deep Lake a little after 8 to help Jeff and Jacque set up the tent on team row. We watched the Elites take off and just watched as the population grew in the campground.

My Soul Sister Lisa P.

Soon enough it was time to warm up. Got a good luck hug from my sis Lisa and off I went for a few laps of the campground. Temps were in the 50's so it was very comfortable to be riding. Warmed up and started to line up. Then it was time to go..

Leaving every 10 seconds is brutal. It took all of 30 seconds for the guy behind me to pass. This was a solid indicator of how the rest of the ride was going to go. I spent the next 11 miles with people passing me like I was sitting still. I barely rode alone....even though I rode alone the whole time. It was just a steady stream of riders from the first mile to the last mile. 

At the Start ~Photo by Belen F.

Here is where if you are looking for a nice and positive recap....is where you can stop reading. The only thing positive about this race was that I finished. I took dead last by over a minute...and was 30 minutes off the lead pace. I knew it was going to be bad, but I didn't imagine it was going to be this awful. 

Bottom line is.....I am a long way from being competitive at any level right now. It won't stop me from trying again next weekend at Fort Custer, where I know the trail better and it is WAY flatter than Yankee. 

Yankee Springs TT goal....kinda

Photo stolen from Yankee Springs Facebook page

If you look at the picture above it shows a very clear "1st" right on top in the middle. For obvious reasons, that is not my medal. For starters, the race is Saturday. Secondly, there are currently 24 Sport Clydes signed up and I know at least 20 of them are extremely faster than me. Lastly, its Yankee....and I have a lot of work to do before I am on the podium here.

As of this point in time I am not even sure if I will be at Yankee on Saturday. Life is happening around me a furious pace. As with life, everything seems to be out of my control. So, I waffle on whether or not I will race, show up, or just hide from the general public for a day. 

Anyway, if I am able to throw my leg over The D.U.F.F. and head out for a lap of Yankee in a few days, I figured I should post a goal time. FYI, it won't be incredible. Yankee and I disagree on about 60% of the decisions that are made during this race. That doesn't bode well for me, because as you know....hills don't just move.

I have had the chance to get out and ride Yankee in the Yellow (clockwise) direction. I don't care for it. Well, let me be specific....I hate it. There are a few sections, and one in the middle, that I just cannot ride clean. The super long switchback climb that finally reaches its apex before dropping into the pines is my worst enemy right now. I just cannot make it. My average speed will already be slow, but a long climb just kills it even more. On the plus side, make it to the last 3 miles....and ride hard...because that section is fun...right up to the climb to the finish line.

So, I know the course ok in this direction. I have ridden enough the other direction to be able to determine where I am. That is a slight advantage. Disadvantage, I am heavy and Yankee has climbing. Knowing that I ride harder in a race, I will push my goal time lower. Again, it won't be impressive. I guess I have put it off long enough...

Goal time: 1:15:00

Average speed of a blistering 8.8 mph.

Secondary goal: NO DFL

So, I might be there...I might not. If I am, wave hello. If I am not, stop and say hi to my team. Until then....

10th Annual Barry Roubaix race recap

Relive 'Barry Roubaix'

Calm before the storm!

The day started early for this event. With Hastings hosting over 3,000 racers it can be hard to find a parking spot early. We rolled in around 7:20 and parked where I normally park, about a block from the finish line. I rolled down to Ace hardware and grabbed my packet. Then, we headed to breakfast. Michelle and Zoe were with me so we headed into the restaurant and Mike joined us (thankfully, because he paid...they don't take plastic there....).  Had a breakfast of a ham and cheese omelet with sausage gravy over the top. Perfect for this event. 

We headed to the team tent and set up shop where the team stationed us. We wandered over to the vendor tents and signed up for all the freebies and looked at what they were offering. Then, before I knew it...it was time to get ready to roll. 

Waves 2 and 3 were already staging, but I had time until my wave. I headed out for a warm-up and did just that. Spun my legs lightly for a few miles just to get them going. I am usually very tight the first couple of miles, so my warm-up was just over 2 miles. Then I headed to the tent and my wave was staging. I saw a few buddies and they were all yelling 'go Sean' and "good luck today". I was feeling pretty confident that I could hit my goal. 

3, 2, 1..GO. The start was not fast...or furious. It took me probably 15 seconds to even get to the start line because it was such a relaxed start. It didn't take long before the pace was lifted. I dropped in behind a few guys and just cruised to the first turn. The wave was pretty much together still, but starting to string out. By the time we hit Yeckley road the group was broken and riders were scattered all over the place.

The first sister wasn't bad, the second wasn't bad, but the third was worse. My heart rate was up and I was pushing to get over that damn hill. Made it, and took off again. I was pushing, but I was riding a pace I figured I could hold the whole time. Miles started to tick away. Groups would pass with anywhere from 30 riders all the way down to a single rider. Unlike Lowell a few weeks ago, I was riding with or withing view of someone the entire time. My first hour went by pretty quick, and I was right on goal pace of 12.7 mph. It felt faster, but I was on pace.

I was settled into my pace, just letting people go and even passing a few. The long time of riders on Gun Lake road was an impressive sight of color from top to bottom. The long climb to the top was made so sweet by the stupid fast descent on the other side. Knowing Sager was ahead, I kept on my pace. Not really talking much...just riding my race and giving people room. Conditions were a mix of rock hard gravel, loose gravel, pavement, and powdery sand. There was no such thing as riding in a straight line.

As I was making the turn on to Sager road I was taking stock of where everyone was around me. There were a few people behind me, not super close. There was a handful of people ahead of me and I was right behind a couple of people. As I hit the sandy entrance a rider just in front of me clipped a big rock and flared across in front of me, forcing me to lock up and lose my momentum. I hear "oh fuck!" from behind me and realize someone is in the process of crashing...thankfully not onto me. I crested the hill...it was pure carnage as far as I could see. People walking, falling, riding, bitching. I just rode where I could and was forced to walk some sections. No worries, only a mile long right? Finally I see the last hill and make my way back to normal gravel.

I start to get settled in again and I am thinking my average speed is doing okay still. I was feeling alright and was still pushing. The miles were ticking away and I started to feel a twinge. I realized I hadn't been drinking enough so I started to focus on hydrating more. Thankfully I never cramped, but that was in the back of my mind. 

I realized I was on the last tough climb for me. It gave me some motivation because I was close to goal time, so I started to press harder. Passed the "jackass" section and headed into the rollers. Stand, go, pedal, go. First roller down, hammer, go. GO. Second one down, third one, pavement....GO GO GO. I put my head down and just pedaled as hard as I could. I started to pull in a few people and was sure to call out my passes. I got to the last block and took the inside corner and buried myself to the finish line. DONE.

I missed my goal time by only 52 seconds. Considering I was nearly a full mile per hour faster than my last training ride, I will take that all day long. I knew I would be toward the back of the pack, but I am still proud of my race, how I approached it, and how it ended. Considering I am 40 pounds heavy and only missed my fastest time ever by 6ish minutes....yeah.....I will surely take that.

Side note:

I got to thinking about my finish and I remembered that Strava has a segment of the last pavement section for Barry. I know I finished strong, but I had no clue how strong it actually was until I dug up this info. I averaged 19.7 over the last 2 miles of a 36 mile race. I cannot hold that kind of average on my road bike, so I am encouraged that I was able to finish this solid on a mountain bike. 

As always thank you to all of the Volunteers that make Barry Roubaix such an amazing event.

Thank you to my wife, Michelle, and daughter, Zoe, for coming to cheer me on.

Thank you to my friends, for cheering me on and offering encouragement before, during, and after the race.

Thank you to our team sponsors for all you do!

Custer Cyclery

Giant Bicycles

Territorial Brewing

Kong Coolers