Endurance races, ski trips, musings, and adventures on the East Coast.

Thursday, September 29, 2011

Form's Back....But no Racing

Finally, I feel like a bike racer again. As in my legs can actually get it done on the climbs and I can see the lines I need to ride coming back down. Fun, to say the least. Too bad the race season is pretty much over. Yup, timed that one well. Pisgah Stage Race is happening right now, and I have to say I am really jealous of those guys. Maybe next year it'll happen. In the meantime I get to ride a lot, and I live in a gorgeous part of the world, no doubt about that. My morning view...


....and at the end of the day post-ride...

Looks like it's back to Vermont for a winter of sweet skiing and teaching. Can't wait! Might have to ride the trainer this year though....at least a little bit. Next season going to be about going real fast - I'm excited for that.

Monday, September 19, 2011

Friends and Family

I've been in Asheville for a month or so now, and it's interesting to back in the place where - for all intents and purposes - I really learned how to go fast.

Two of my favorite pro riders are Mike and Mary McConneloug. Sure, I'm super jealous of their racing out of an RV around the world lifestyle, but it's one of their sponsors that I think is really cool. Yup, check out their kits, you'll see "Friends and Family" in big letters.

How true. For the last two years I've made it my goal to race the country's big endurance races as fast as I could. That's meant giving up a lot of things. A house much of the year for one - rent and racing just haven't been compatible. As a result I've had to rely extensively on friends and family to help me accomplish those racing goals. And man have they helped me out - I think I have the best friends and family in the world. So, really, this post is a big shout out.

To all my friends who have lent me couch space, loaned or just given me bike parts, sent me motivating text messages and emails, brought coffee to my tent in the morning, helped out with the driving, fed me, and generally just been awesome, THANK YOU! I'm not sure how I can ever repay you all - but hopefully someday I can begin to try. You all are the best.

Saturday, September 17, 2011

Ouch....training hurts

Alright....I'm waaaaayyyy over-caffinated and sitting in a coffee shop with an espresso sitting next to be calling my name. This should be fun.
Long story short I've been drinking coffee and not riding all day because, well, my legs are shot. Did I not really train over the summer? Could be I guess. Basically I'm trying to make up for some lost time. Just threw my hat in the ring for a couple of upcoming races: the 3 Peaks Cyclocross and the Swank 65k. No point in showing up to go slow right. Hopefully after a season of 100 milers they'll feel short and fast.
Plus the Swank is about as fun as they come. Butter Gap, Farlow Gap, Daniel Ridge, and some really good climbing. It's an awesome one. I think there are still a few spots left. It's worth getting in on for sure. Check it out at Blue Ridge Adventures. Just make sure you have a few rides under your belt first.