Bend Cyclocross

Bend (life) is Amazing

2012-02-05T20:19:00.001-08:00

I have been super busy with work and coaching. Once 'cross season ends it is the start of nordic ski coaching for me. I help coach the team at school and though this season they had already been practicing for a few weeks without me it's good to be back at it (though these workouts HURT).

We've had races at Diamond Lake, Hoodoo, Willamette Pass, and Bachelor. Only a couple more left in the season which will wrap up at the end of the month with the state meet at Hoodoo. Last weekend after racing around all day in the sun and snow myself and the head coach took off for a little workout of our own while the team was getting packed up...lots of climbing and a great way to finish the day. On Sun it was off to Mt. Bachelor for more sun and quite a bit of really nice snow that folks hadn't found out off the Northwest chair. We called it a day at the mountain with quite a bit of daylight left, so Kris and I busted out to Horse Ridge for some of the best mountain biking there is in Bend. We had the place mostly to ourselves on a Sunday afternoon and nearly perfect trail conditions. It was beautiful.

This weekend was more of the same. It was tough to choose between skiing, road bikes, mt bikes, downhill, nordic. In the end it was lots of skiing, good company, and some beautiful weather.

We are so lucky to live in a place where we can be on the mountain skiing in the morning and riding bikes in the afternoon...All surrounded by amazing friends. Thanks ya'll.

CX season wrap up

2012-01-23T23:04:00.000-08:00

I went into this season more focused than previous seasons, I had goals, and I had a plan and coach to help keep me on track (Brig Brandt at Rebound...I highly recommend working with a coach if you haven't), and I had one of my most successful seasons. What does that mean though. I've talked at length with Serena, D, and Don about how you define a successful season. It's not as easy as it sounds, it doesn't just come down to results or one single race (as Serena wrote about) it takes looking at the whole season, but that's not all. As Don put well, it is also about attitude, both in victory and defeat. Every season will have it's ups and downs. Days where you feel unstoppable and on top of your game can be followed up with heartbreaking defeats, it's all part of this game we choose to play. You have to take what comes and if it goes your way or it doesn't you have to learn from it. I learned a lot this season. I define my season as successful mostly on what I have learned, but also by how much I enjoyed the season. We racers put a lot of pressure on ourselves, we train, sacrifice, and suffer for months on end in pursuit of a successful season, and often it gets into my head that success does depend on one particular race, even when I know that is not all there is.

Nationals tend to feel that way, like a final exam, it's the race(s) that you think about for 13 months straight. Nationals are what you aim all your training towards. So it's easy to be let down if a race doesn't go as planned, it's hearbreaking, it's devastating, it SUCKS. I was nearly in tears myself watching Serena run around the course, derailleur hanging from the bike. I couldn't believe when Molly had a freak crash in the week leading to Nationals that made it too hard to race. Your heart goes out, because you know what goes into getting ready for that race, you know the months of prep and sacrifice it took to get there. It's easy to forget it's just one race. You know that the success of that season isn't measured by one race, but it's not that much comfort in the moment.

One of the amazing parts of cyclocross is the community that is created because we all know about the sacrifices of training, the heartbreak of defeat, and the elation that comes with a good race. We share in the joy, the sorrow, the pain, and the laughter.

Photo: 541images.com

I had an amazing weekend, I was focused on my masters races, and it was my best race of the season. Everything came together as planned. There was a stacked field (check out the cx magazine recap) with some big names at the top of the list. Without all the details I raced the entire race like I wanted, I battled, and I never let off physically or mentally. I rode a smart race, I had support in the pit and was able to switch bikes nearly every lap. I had a group I was riding with and was able to drop all but one guy and set up an awesome last lap battle. When I was done I collapsed (Proof in the background of the interview 39 seconds in) not just out of physical exhaustion, but I was mentally spent. I had thought about this race all year and I had given everything I had to be there, I was as tired and happy as I could have been, it felt amazing. I was surrounded by friends, teammates, and even family that understood what had just happened. It made it all worth it.

It's too much to write about the entire weekend, but what stands out is how awesome it was to be there with teammates and friends and to support each other in both victory and defeat. It was amazing to watch the junior racers I have worked with this season do the same and come away with some amazing results. It was especially amazing the support we received. It can't be said enough how much we owe the season to those that made it possible. Don has been there all season, not just with advice and guidance, but with mechanical support and a helping hand with whatever we needed, it wouldn't have been the same without his help and knowledge. Bill who drove a mountain of gear (not to mention a bunch of juniors) across the country was an amazing help. He made sure we were set with bikes and gear, and there he was each lap in the pit as I handed off a muddy bike. Even the juniors who ran alongside the course, shared equipment, and just generally spread the stoke made it great. We also have some amazing sponsors who made it all possible by believing in what we were doing and supporting us in it.

I am overwhelemed with how the season was a success, not just because of a single race, but because of what I took away from the season. Thanks cyclocross for being amazing!

mid-season

2011-11-29T09:18:00.000-08:00

It's been a crazy few weeks since I last had a chance to post here. The crusade series wrapped up, there was the state championship cx race, and I made a swing out to the east coast for Thanksgiving and managed to jump in a race there.

Cross Crusade #8 out at PIR didn't end up being as muddy as I had hoped, but it was slick in spots and the course was excellent, I really like this venue that usually hosts the USGP's. I had a horrible start position and some bottlenecks early on in the race set my position that was hard to make up. I realized I had a pretty good race, I raced well, I had some battles that I won, and I was moving up most of the time, but when you lose a minute or two on the first lap it's really hard to make that up unless folks in front of you are screwing up...You'd just have to be going much faster than the folks up front to catch up and I was racing fast, but not enough to close any gaps. So I wasn't disappointed with how I raced, but I had been hoping for a better result. Regardless, it was a fun day of racing and I felt strong.

(Photo Will Sullivan)

State CX. We made our way over to Eugene in a snowstorm on Fri night. Sat started with some showers and the promise of mud. It was cold and slick out on the course. The singletrack section out at the back of the course suited me well with some tight slick corners and some slog sections of mud. I had a better start with the smaller group and stayed in a decent position through the first laps. I was losing some ground on the wide open power sections, but then making a lot of it back up in the woods and single track. I went back and forth with a lot of folks and managed to stay ahead of a few before I settled into a good battle with Alex Wentz. We went back and forth a few times before we managed to separate ourselves from others and it came down to the two of us. He would open it up on me as we came out of the woods towards the start/finish and I would get back on his wheel as we went through the corners in the woods. It went this way for 3-4 laps and with one to go he led through the single track with me on his wheel and I knew what to expect as we came out, he hit the gas and I did my best to stay with him, we went through the mud together with him a couple bike lengths in front of me, we hit the barriers nearly back together, but he was on his bike first and across the line a few seconds in front of me. It made for a good race and certainly made me push myself.

The high school kids I have been working with and coaching finished up their season with a strong second place, the boys had been dominant all season, but the final total is based on the co-ed results and we didn't quite pull it off. Regardless of result, the team had some really strong races and it has been super fun and motivating to work with these young athletes. Though the HS series is over, many of them will keep racing through the USGP's here in Bend and even on to Nationals.

We took off for the east coast on Mon night and I got to sneak in some amazing rides. I love riding around New England when the weather is nice. It was great to have a week of to just focus on riding, resting, and catching up with family and of course some eating. The racing kicked my ass and I didn't do as well as I would have liked. A tough first lap and just not stellar legs, but it was a solid effort and I am glad to have been able to get in the race. A much tougher course than we are used to out here, twisty, technical, and lots of up and down. A solid race that I would love to jump in again.

East Coast Phone Photos

The next couple weeks I will focus on getting in some solid training leading up the the USGP races and then buckle down for the last few weeks leading up to cyclocross nationals in Madison. It's still a ways away, but I am psyched to keep riding and training.

Halloween in Bend

2011-11-01T22:55:00.000-07:00

What a super fun weekend of racing! Too much to write about, but when Bend does a Crusade race they do it up right. Lots of events around town and tons of folks out enjoying the whole scene.

I came out on Sat feeling pretty rested and ready to race. It's great to wake up and make breakfast without having to rush out of the house and sit in a car for 3 hours before racing. It was a much better pre-race ritual.

I didn't have the best postion to start and knew from the gun that the first lap would be a mess...there was dust and some corners that were technical enough in traffic that people would be running. It was a slow first lap with a lot of chaos, but I think that is the very thing that helped my race. I didn't blow up that first lap, I didn't expand all my reserves, I just stayed calm and avoided crashing or spazzing out. Once we got most of the way through the first lap I was able to settle into a pace that I could maintain and worked my way up. I felt really good about where I was even if I didn't feel like I had a lot of snap in the legs. I felt a little tired and heavy, but I still managed to move up and win a few little battles within the race. Though we're halfway through the crusades I still have some serious work to do. I was happy with the result because I knew that I can do even better and that I rode a smart race. I put my legs up and got some rest for day two on Sunday.

I had a better position to start the day on Sun, but my tin man costume was a little tight on the legs and the foam front was gonna be warm, not to mention the silver face paint. That's what this race is about though...It's an amazingly fun day because most people show up in costume and still give it their all. I gave it my all, it worked out well. I had my best A finish in crusade race coming in at 16th, and I still didn't feel like I had my best race ever, so I am psyched to see where my fitness will take me in the coming months. There's a ton of racing left.

It was a great weekend that reminded me how amazing my teammates and friends are, we all pulled together to make it a blast. The town was out, friends were out, it was what cross should be, a community of awesomeness. I am more motivated than ever to race again, Sun can't come fast enough. See you then!

Crusades 3&4 - No time anymore

2011-10-25T21:24:00.000-07:00

Well, just like that we are halfway through the crusade season and I have had no time for writing here. I like to use this blog to reflect, to set goals, and to get psyched in a way, I haven't had much time for that. Work, training, and coaching are keeping me slammed...No complaining though, I love what I am doing.

Here's how it's gone down-
PIR - Crusade 3: I had a great race, the results don't show it, but I felt amazing, and I moved up the entire race as well as won a few little battles within the race. I had started in the very last row but rode smart and fast and kept calm. It was sunny and warm and just a great day to be out racing cross on a flat fast course. I think this course suited where I am at with fitness and I felt like I had some power in the legs when I needed. It was the first race on a new cross bike for me and I couldn't have been happier about how the bike rode and performed, this bike is sweeeet - a huge thanks to trek and to sunnyside for setting it up. I will get some photos up of it and more details, but sufice to say it was a big step up in performance from old bike which I thought was just fine.

Wash County- Crusade 4: I was looking forward to moving back up where I wanted to be, I had a great start position, and it was a similar course to the previous week with no rain and mostly flat and fast. I started great and held a good position for the first half of the race, I just didn't have the legs though. About halfway through I started losing ground and fading back, I couldn't hold the pace on the long power sections and there was big group behind me that came right past. I was pretty destroyed by the end, but it was certainly a good workout so I know that the racing will pay off.

Though the last couple races didn't go as I liked I am psyched about how the season is progressing. I realize that it's a real long one this year so I am not worried about how I am finishing yet, I feel like I am still building fitness and I will be fresher and stronger at the later races which is what I am hoping for. We're headed back east for thanksgiving this year which also means a chance to jump into a race in New England and test the fitness. I also just locked down a ticket to Madison for cyclocross nationals. Even if the crusades are already half done,the season is just getting going!

This weekend is the Halloween races and Bend is hosting the crusades and it's the Day of the Dead Cyclocross Festival which means no driving and also means that we are going to put on a party like no other...check out the events planned >>Printable Schedule and come out to see the team race. We'll see you out there!

Cross Crusade #2 Rainer

2011-10-13T21:11:00.000-07:00

Meh, that's my feeling about the race. I felt like I went way harder and pushed myself more than Alpenrose, and I ended up 7 spots further back. I just didn't have it after the climb and couldn't recover after the power stuff out in the woods.

That's not to say that it wasn't a good race, just not thrilled with my result. The course is great though, I love that it's a combo of all skills, there's sections for everyone, I just need more fitness. It was a little frustrating with the lap count. We should have had one more lap to go and when we came through and I had saved a little something for that last lap. They finished everyone (not because we were getting lapped) without warning.

It was so rad to be there for Serena's first cross crusade win and to see Don and Renee win their races. We had Serena's folks down from Seattle with their grandkids and that made for an amazing cheering section, I could hear them every lap, it was awesome, it really does mean a lot to have people shouting and cheering...THANKS! Don was always at the top of the climb with a much needed word or two.

Regardless of how it turned out, it was great to be out racing with friends and be doing what I love.

Check out the recap and photos over at Swellvelo.com.
See you out there this weekend!

Cross Season in full effect

2011-10-05T21:20:00.000-07:00

It's going now. The preseason races are through, it has been a good early season, but now it's time for trips to the valley, the weekly cleaning, washing, maintenance, and planning.

I love this time of year, the cold mornings, rain, frost, pumpkins, leaves...making it home just before dark for a hot meal and some rest after a hard training session.

Alpenrose was last weekend and it went well. It's early in the season for me and I had a hard week leading up to Alpenrose, but still I ended up doing well. I had a great start, but faded a little for the effort. I got into my pace and settled in to trying to move up. Picked a few off, held my position, and felt good all the way to the end. It was a good early season test and I was psyched with the result. Had a call-up which made a big difference on the start. I finished in 18th (good for 1 little pt) and hopefully that will continue the call-up.

Between work, coaching, and training the weeks fly by. This coming weekend is Rainer, one of my favorite courses. It makes for a long weekend, but it'll be a good one. I'm trying to make plans for the rest of the season and hopefully even sneak a trip in to the east coast to combo up thanksgiving and a race. Need to get on plans for Madison real soon to, I put in for the days off, now I just need to track down some tickets.

It's been awesome to have such amazing teammates who are on the same page, we've been sharing ideas, training together, racing together and generally getting each other psyched. We are so lucky to have an amazing bunch of sponsors as well, they have set us up and taken care of us. Please let them know you appreciate their support of bike racing and our team by supporting them and thanking them!

Hood River Double Cross

2011-09-19T21:26:00.000-07:00

This pictures really sums up the weekend...Happy and dirty.

It was another round of the Grand Prix Molly Cameron and Hood River Double Cross...a great excuse to camp out in the van with friends and race bikes around.

I crashed pretty hard on Saturday. Face planted into the sand (which would explain the dirt in my teeth). I fought my way back and had a decent race, coulda done without the crash (my leg is all torn up, that's about it luckily). Such a fun course, felt decent, but wanted to be a little farther up.

Sunday was a great race, felt suprisingly strong and had a blast battling it out with some friends. Was really happy with where I finished and I am real psyched for more races and to keep testing out this early season fitness.

Thanks to Matt Lasala for the photo.

A new season...

2011-09-13T21:20:00.000-07:00

It's been a while. Lets catch up shall we?

We had an amazing trip to Tanzania (check out this photo set it's just the "best of" not all of our photos). An amazing country, some amazing learning experiences, and so many friends made that we won't soon forgot. Our host family was so amazing and welcoming. You can read our blog from the trip on the GR site, too much to put here, but if you ever have the chance to travel to Tanzania we highly suggest it, put it on your list and let us know if you make it, we'll introduce you to some amazing people.

Had a great trip to Montana when we got back to the states, some kayaking, hiking, and a wedding. It's easy to be away from Montana for a while and forget how amazing it is...I was reminded to be sure.

Getting back on the bike! Had a little less hectic schedule than last year in terms of getting back and being able to focus on finding some fitness. The weather cooperated and I feel like coming into Sept I am more focused and better prepared than I was last year...The fitness still has a way to go, but it's Sept, it's always hard to balance my actual fitness with the level I want to be racing at this time of year, but I will be patient, it's an extra long season this year and I have cyclocross nationals on my calendar for January in Madison Wisconsin.

I was able to jump in a couple races already. Did the Grand Prix Molly Cameron #1 and had a blast. And the Thrilla races have already gotten underway. Gonna race my way into shape this month. Headed to Hood River this weekend for another couple...

It's Cross Season!!!!! I couldn't be more psyched about it.

Keep up here and at www.swellvelo.com

See you out there.

Team News!

2011-09-13T20:21:00.000-07:00

Below is the update for the team we sent out this week. We are so thrilled to be starting cyclocross up again. It's been crazy getting back from Africa, getting back on the bike, and getting back to work. A whirlwind for sure!

Watch out for some more updates coming soon.

With numerous wins and even more podium finishes, Silverado/Sunnyside was on top of the results page for the Oregon XC Mountain Bike Series, took the yellow jersey in the Cascade Classic Cat 3 race, brought home a medal from USAC Mountain Bike Nationals in Sun Valley, ID, helped to organize Pickett’s Charge, volunteered for the most successful Tour de Chutes to date, mixed it up in the Hullabaloo’s Northwest Crossing Criterium and even took a trip to Italy to show off the new kit overseas! All of that and the 2011 racing season has only just begun (for us cross crazy ones anyway).

Bart, Brig, Bruce, Damian, Greg, and Serena are all healthy, happy and racing well. Matt took a 2-month sabbatical from the bike to lead a youth service project in Tanzania through the non-profit organization Global Routes, but he’s been back in saddle since early August and is looking forward to finding his legs again! Matt also took over coaching duties for the local high school cyclocross team which was 2nd in the state last year and is looking for the win this season. Coaching the high school students as well as working with juniors through Bend Endurance Academy is keeping him super busy.

The long days and warm weather of August and September have allowed for a lot of quality training and hold great potential and continued success for the team. Bart and Brig raced in the USAC Master Road Championship, which were held in Bend, and Brig will also be racing USAC Mountain Bike Marathon Nationals on Sept 17th. Despite flying the New Zealand flag, Bruce Cole-Baker will also be racing Marathon Nationals in the Single Speed category. Damian, Matt and Serena are gearing up for cyclocross season and they hope to convince Bruce and Brig to extend their seasons a little longer! Bart should be flying the colors this fall as well making sure to show off his legendary barrier skills (none of which Damian showcased last Thursday)! We are all looking forward to the increased number of cyclocross races being held this fall in Bend and are excited to able to race strong at home; in front of our community, friends, and sponsors.

Thank you for your continued support; we are exciting to be part of this incredible team and have you to thank for making it possible.

You can keep tabs on us through our blog at www.swellvelo.com , our Facebook page, and on Twitter.

Thank you!

Swell Velo

Silverado Gallery p/b Sunnyside Sports would like to thank its sponsors:

Silverado Jewelry Gallery, Sunnyside Sports, Todd A. Schock Facial and Oral Surgery, Studio 930 cosmetic + general dentistry, Lazer, Smith Optics, Hammer Nutrition, Thump Coffee, Action Dynamix Massage, Mad Alchemy, Powered by Bowen

Maji Ya Chai and Arusha

2011-06-28T10:27:00.000-07:00

Jambo from Tanzania,
I Spent the last couple days in the village we will spend the bulk of our time in. Maji ya Chai literally translates to tea water, the community is named after the tea colored river that runs down from mt. Meru and through the area. The village was extremely welcoming and what they lack in comfort and amenities they more than make up for in hospitality. It's also very beautiful, surrounded by sunflowers (which they harvest for oil), corn, beans, and mountains in the distance including Kilimanjaro on a clear day.

I'm very slowly learning my Swahili, many of the families have someone that speaks at least a little English and Mohamed (our contact who will live with us in the community) has been helping immensely and will be amazing to work alongside.

I'm back in Arusha and all it's bustling goodness. I'm starting to find my way around and know where things are. I will spend the next couple days getting the last details for the student orientation planned out and dialed in. Lots of visits to the bank, making maps, putting together welcome packages, and finding good spaces for our group of 20 in all this chaos. Ruth and the students will arrive at the end of the week and we'll be in town for a day before we head out on Safari.

There are monkeys in the trees outside my hotel room.

Hopefully we'll have some more exotic photos for you once we return from safari until then... asante sana for reading.

Jambo!

2011-06-26T06:32:00.000-07:00

Quick greetings from Tanzania. After a whole lot of flying I have made it. It's already been a super productive day, meeting with contact, exploring Arusha (the main town in the north), hitting up banks, internet, and meeting with contacts.

Tomorrow I will travel to our community about 30km out of Arusha where stay for a couple days to hold community meetings and meet/visit with homestay families.

Tanzania has been wonderful so far, so very friendly and welcoming. It's not as hot as I thought it would have been and has been really comfortable. Arusha is a bustling scene full of safari vehicles and people heading off to various places and sights. We are surrounded by mountains (though I haven't seen Kilimanjaro yet) So much to see and do.

I will keep some updates coming here as I can, that's all for now. If you haven't donated to the project there is still time.

Stay tuned.

Project Tanzania

2011-04-27T06:20:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again (I know, I know, I seem to ask for $ every spring, but you have been so generousand it really makes a huge difference in the communities we work in). Ruth and I will be leading a trip to Tanzania this summer (there are some details on the link below) and we are asking if you will donate to the project. Many of you have helped in the past and it has been so great to have your support, we would really love if you canhelp us out again. The nicest part is that you know where your donation goes. We literally carry the project money with us and buy supplies (it does not go to any administrative costs). We work with the community to find the best use of
the donations and put them towards a sustainable project that will have a lasting impact. It's all tax deductible and it's a great organization (more info by following the link).

I understand that many of you are going to school, in-debt, working part time, not working, not getting paid enough, maybe need some charity yourselves ;-) etc. We realize it's a tough time to be asking for money. However, if you can help or if you know someone that can (maybe your work place will match the donation?)please feel free to spread the word for us and pass this on.

Here's the link to donate and some more information... http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/matt-fox/tanzania2011

Thanks in advance for anything you can do. Even $5 will be a huge help.We look forward to sharing stories and photos with you over
the summer as we can.

A poem

2011-04-22T06:31:00.000-07:00

It's been a tradition of mine to put a poem up today. Don has told me before, that poetry on cycling blogs is great. I think it's great just about anywhere, but particularly where one doesn't expect it. This poem is found somewhere you wouldn't expect it. Here's the story of the Methow River Poems (some of my favorites of all time). They are all published on porcelain plaques at six locations along the Cascades Highway 20, in northern Washington state. Here are their names and locations:

- Time for Serenity, Anyone? --where the Methow River meets the Columbia (pictured above)
- From the Wild People --between the towns of Methow and Carlton
- Ask Me --north of the ranger station in Winthrop
- Is This Feeling About the West Real? --also north of the ranger station in Winthrop
- Where We Are --near the suspension footbridge, south of Mazama
- Silver Star --in front of Silver Star mountain
- A Valley Like This --at the scenic overlook in Washington's pass.

If you enjoy these poems, they are published in a book titled Even in Quiet Places

Time for Serenity, Anyone?
I like to live in the sound of water,
in the feel of the mountain air. A sharp
reminder hits me the world is still alive;
it stretches out there shivering toward its own
creation, and I'm part of it. Even my breathing
enters into this elaborate give-and-take,
this bowing to sun and moon, day or night,
winter, summer, storm, still this tranquil
chaos that seems to be going somewhere.
This wilderness with a great peacefulness in it.
This motionless turmoil, this everything dance.

~© William Stafford~

Have a beautiful day.

Back on the bike...

2011-04-05T20:28:00.000-07:00

...in a big way. I have been in the thick of it and the season seems like it's steaming ahead. Tues night group rides, working with the Bend Endurance Road Team, early season MTB races are all in full swing.

Jumped in the first Mt Bike race a few weeks ago and felt really strong. It was an awesome day riding around in the sun on some sweet singletrack.

I Just finished up a weekend of stage racing in the Dalles. The Cherry Blossom Cycling Classic is one of my favorite races to do. Amazing courses, super well organized, great competition, and seems like always nice weather. A few years back this was the first stage race I had done, back then I raced as a 4 and felt really strong. It was great to race as a 3 and still feel strong, but I know I still have some work to do. I finished in the top 20 which I was happy with. I got in a ton of really good riding and racing and know it will pay off. Gotta work on my TT though. Regardless, great racing, with a great group of folks.

Looking at the calendar is a bit shocking as it seems most every weekend from here to June is filled with racing.

We just found out we are headed to Tanzania for another amazing summer with Global Routes, an organization I am constantly impressed with. Check these guys out when you get a chance and pass it on to anyone you know who would be interested.

A lot of exciting developments with the new team: "Swell Velo" stay tuned as we get a website up and uniforms start showing up at races. Gonna be totally radical! In the meantime check out our facebook page.

It's snowing right now. Figures. Bend spring weather is what it is, but I have managed to get outside enough and get over to the valley for the early races. Here's looking forward to more!

The "Off Season"

2011-03-02T20:52:00.000-08:00

Wow, been a bit since this blog has been updated. It's been a good "off season" ...of course by "off season" I mean training with and helping coach the H.S. Nordic team, riding the bike in the garage, getting outside when I can, skiing, and working on getting ready for the season.

I already jumped in a road race which seems crazy. Felt really strong, but didn't have the smartest race and missed the break that I needed to be in.

It's gotten more winter like as we have approached March, and it's been a struggle to ride inside after already getting in some beautiful outside rides, but so it goes. I am looking forward to jumping in a bunch more races and getting outside.

There are some exciting team developments on the horizon, stay tuned for more on that and I will keep this a little more up to date as the racing starts.

Music that is keeping me sane on the trainer...

- Kid Cudi
- Herma Puma
- Free Energy
- The Black Keys

Post Cyclocross Nationals

2010-12-17T13:42:00.000-08:00

I have been struggling with how to start writing about the chaos that was 3 different races and 5 days of racing. In all honesty I wasn't really sure how I felt about it all. Coming back to work on Mon was tough for a lot of reasons.

How did the races go? people kept asking...It was good. That's all I could come up with, I sounded lame. Good, that's it? I didn't want to explain how I felt, I didn't have the energy, they didn't want to hear what I really had to say.

What I really have to say is that it was an amazing cyclocross nationals to be sure. Did it end up how I wanted, no it didn't. I wanted to be better, I wanted better results, but I think in reality I ended up where I deserved to end up and that's what's hard to say, that's the toughest part to deal with. I went as hard as I could, there wasn't a part of my races where I felt like I could give anything more. I rode around after my time trial for nearly 20 minutes, shivering cold, too dizzy to stop moving, trying to shake the nausea. I had gone as hard as I could, I ended up finishing 25th, I wanted better. I raced my ass off in my masters race, I did everything right, I can't remember a spot where I could have gone harder, I was seeing stars. I ended up finishing 6 places further back than last year. It's hard for me to balance how I raced and how I ended up, because in my mind I am better than than my results, but results don't lie. Those races are the hard cold reality of where I am. When the racing was over I felt alone with my results, I had to own them. This isn't meant to be negative, but it's not an easy truth to handle when you have unrealized expectations. You shake it off and as Heidi said "there's motivation in those memories". How do you explain this to someone when they ask how your race went...the answer is you don't. You say it went well and it was fun.

It was fun, it's not that I didn't have a blast, that I wouldn't do it again in a heartbeat. I don't think we do this just for fun though. It's something more, its much more important. I once told a good friend who understands... fun doesn't win races. It's true, we go out there and suffer, we pound the shit out of ourselves, we crash, we hurt, it's cold.

I've often read a piece written by Doug Ammons, an amazing kayaker who I looked up to when I was doing a lot of serious kayaking and still look up to. Someone once asked him why he paddled class 5. His response has a lot to do with some of the same reasons cyclocross is so meaningful to me.

We solved outrageous puzzles of movement and timing; played games of speed chess with the water, just at the edge of what we could handle. We wove ourselves completely into the river and lived for those moments of clarity, when you were committed to the line. To that thread of truth. And all those days of friendship and worry and concentration and smiles melted together into the best feeling...

Read Doug's entire piece "The Real Shit" it's amazing.

In cyclocross I have found what paddling class 5 gave me (without the life or death consequences) and that is clarity. When I race there is nothing else. It puts me in touch with part of myself that I don't find any other way and it's addicting. It's clarity, it's truth, and it's raw. But it's not always an easy truth, it's not beautiful and nice. I will keep seeking that truth no matter how hard. I need it.

I get choked up when I think about my friends who understand this, share this with me, yell their ass off at me, and are the first faces I see after a race, those who are there to support me. You are amazing people THANK YOU.

Go read posts from people that understand and can explain this even better than me!
Heidi Swift
Serena Bishop
Damian Schmitt
Don Leet

Here we go! Cyclocross Nationals Bend

2010-12-08T06:41:00.000-08:00

It all kicked off this morning. The TT's are underway. I can't think of a better person to kick it all of than Don Leet. He is literally the second rider of the entire crazy weekend. At 9:01 am Don will race around the TT course in preperation for the Masters 60+ national race. Don is an inspiration to me. I hope I can be racing cyclocross nationals when I am 60 and I hope I have as many friends cheering as Don will. Get out there and cheer him on, this is what it's all about. Go out and have a blast!

Make Local Habit...For Cyclocross Nationals. Food picks for Bend Visitors

2010-12-01T20:16:00.000-08:00

Updated from last season for 2010

We have a saying in Bend about this, you'll see the bumper stickers. It's about trying to buy local (from small locally owned businesses) whenever you can. If we support the businesses that support Bend and in particular the businesses that support the bike community and make it a great place to live we are also helping ourselves.

There are a ton of great local restaurants, bars, brew pubs, grocery stores, bike shops, and more. How great would it be if we could support some of our local businesses that are supporting cyclocross nationals and our community too. There is a ton of information to be found on the visit bend site for all matter of things from accommodations to meeting spaces, so check there if you are looking for a comprehensive list.

On the other hand Bendcyclocross.com is a place to find recommendations, share inside tips, and ask questions about these local businesses, a source of where to eat, drink, hang out, etc. during nationals.

This is not a comprehensive list by any means, there are a ton of great local businesses, these are just a few of the favorites spots we frequent. It would be great if you share your own inside knowledge and leave comments. Chances are if you live in Bend you have some favorites too...share them here. I'll update the post as more comes in. Without further ado here are some of our favorite local spots.

Food:
Deschutes Brewery - The beer is amazing, food is amazing, tons of options, right downtown. They are nice enough to let the nationals course run all over their property and they are big bike supporters, be sure to thank them!
Jacksons Corner - Amazing food (handmade pasta, sandwiches, wood fired pizza), great casual atmosphere, awesome beer selection, very reasonable prices. Kombucha Mama on tap!
Common Table - A non profit restaurant with farm to table food...every meal you purchase provides a subsidized meal for someone that can't afford it. Great food and beer. Downtown.
Spork - Globally inspired green conscious mobile streetfood kitchen. Amazing food and a big supporter of cyclocross. Check the website for details of where they are and what they are up to.
Kebaba - Amazing middle eastern food, tempeh burritos, falafel, lots of veggie options...sooo good.
Chow - A great breakfast spot! They serve lunch too.
Parilla Grill - Burritos, cheap, healthy, PBR tall boys for $1.
Sparrow Bakery - Stumptown coffee, pastries, and excellent sandwiches. Not far from the old mill.
Taste of Thai /Thai on the Fly - Hard to find, super extra friendly delicious take out thai, cheap. Next to the expresslube in a little shack...really.
Pizza Mondo - Downtown Pizza
Ariana - Upscale Mediterranean
900 wall - Posh downtown, good happy hour
Brother Jon's - Sandwiches, beer, mac and cheese, excellent beer selection!!! Lots of good food cheap.
Nancy P's - Baked goodies
La Rosa - Creative mexican/latin by the TT course in Northwest Crossing...Excellent Margaritas
Ben & Jerry's - Not cold enough? Need an ice cream fix? They are in the old mill and really support the bike community, drop in and say thanks. Happy Hour 3 scoops for $3 from 4p-7p daily in December 2010. Plus deals for racers .

Coffee/Tea:
Thump - Our go to coffee shop, Stumptown coffee, espresso, baked goodness. Big bike supporter. I was worried about coffee in Bend till I found this place. Pick up some Kombucha mama here too.
Strictly Organic - Excellent, local, organic. Try the Sunnyside espresso blend. Don's favorite.
Towsends Tea House - If you're into tea...Downtown
Lone Pine Coffee Roasters - Tin pan alley excellence. French pressed goodness.

Groceries:
Newport Market - Great beer and wine selection, gourmet groceries, cheese, bakery, more.
Natures - In the wagner mall on 3rd st. Health food, juice bar, vegan goods, teas, herbal medicines, local meat and poultry, bulk goods.
Devores- Small grocery, deli, produce, take out, veggie and vegan options.

Misc
Action Dynamix Massage - Sports massage by Amber, a cyclocross racer from TEAM BEER who will give Nats racers a discount! make your appointment soon!!!!!
Silverado - A jewelry gallery, but a great place to get a souvenier...a big bike supporter, that's why we list them here. Stop by and say thanks!

There's all the typical other grocery stores and a Trader Joes as well. You'll see em. Rays and Safeway are close to the old mill on 14th.

What else are you looking for? leave a comment and we'll help out.

Winding down and Cyclocross Nationals in Bend

2010-12-01T12:00:00.000-08:00

Hard to believe that it's December already. I am overwhelmed by all the amazing things about to go down with cyclocross nationals this year. Molly said it well in a recent post.

"There is a lot of beauty in this world. Beautiful things to create and beautiful things to experience. I can’t stop myself from doing everything full-on."

How do you do it all? The next couple weeks are going to be CRAZY fun.

It's been a super a super fun season, I am still just as smitten with this sport as the day I jumped in my first race. I've managed to jump in a couple races since the crusades ended. I am happy with how my fitness is at the end of the season and heading into nationals. Had a super fun race at the state championships and felt strong at the end of the race. That course was so rad. I've been riding snow and ice a lot, both with the juniors and at the last of the local races. The amount of snow in town and the current forecast make it look like it's going to be a cold slippery cyclocross nationals. Gonna jump in the USGP races this weekend and chase 'em.

Can't wait.

Barton Park - Cross Crusade # 8 finale

2010-11-14T21:09:00.000-08:00

Photo Oregon Cycling Action

Damian said it well in a twitter post "the crusades started with a bang and finished with a whimper" the same held true for me. Some strong early season races had me really psyched about my fitness and how I was riding, but mechanical issues in the last 4 races have left me with less than stellar results. I know it's not just about results though, I don't let that discourage me, and the Crusades aren't the only game in town. There are still a few more local/regional races coming up and then it's the big show- Cyclocross Nationals in Bend. It's 'cross and sometimes mechanicals are part of the game, flat tires, broken dertailleurs, busted spokes, wobbly wheels, and shitty luck sometimes factor in.

I had a blast out there yesterday despite my flat tire. I was having a good race, loving the mud, and feeling strong, I ended up running almost an entire lap to the pit, not because I had any hope of finishing the race in a good position (I was as far from the pit as could be) but because I wasn't done, I wanted more, I wanted to keep going, because it was a blast out there. And I had a blast even though I had no chance...I tried to pull some teammates and Bend folks around when I could, I snagged some hand ups, and just enjoyed chasing folks around. This morning my legs were more sore from running than riding, my shoulder hurt from carrying the bike, and I still had mud in my eyes. It's cross, I love it despite the frustration it can dish out. You just have to take each race in stride and go after the next one.

Sometimes it all clicks and you have an amazing ride, that's what it's about, and that's what makes it worth it. I'm gonna get back on the bike and keep chasing that ride.

Speaking of rides...Serena had one! An awesome finish in 2nd and a super strong ride. Mike put in a big effort to finish off a super strong season. Don was back home after some serious driving across the country and he was out battling and looking smooth on all the stuff that made everyone else flounder. D was up with a strong group and suffered a flat with a couple to go. There was a whole crew of sunnyside folks out racing and cheering, that's what cross is for, cheering on teammates through it all. See ya next weekend!

Photo- Matt Haughey

Cyclocross Crusade #7 -

2010-11-09T20:30:00.000-08:00

This little guy ended my race before it even really started. After about 2 laps as I stood up to spin up onto the gravel the derailleur broke in two and managed to go into the spokes and take a few of those out too. My race was over, no pit bike, far from the pit I walked to the hose and called it a day. It's frustrating, I've had mechanical issues the last three races, but sometimes that's how it goes. It definitely takes some of the motivation away, but I got on the bike Monday and will put in some solid training in the next couple weeks before a little taper going into cyclocross nationals. There's only one crusade race left, then USGP's which are always crazy fast and fun, then cyclocross nationals. A huge shout out needs to go out to Mike and to Sunnyside Sports, they've taken the bike week after week this season and got it back and rolling even better than it was previously. The thanks and beer I deliver them for their awesome service and attention to detail don't even cover it. THANKS!

This afternoon I rode around with some of the junior and high school cyclocross kids from town at the site of the time trial course for nationals. It was cold, a little windy, and there was a couple inches of snow on the ground. I can only hope that conditions aren't too much worse during nationals. It was fun out there.

Damian has a whole slew of race reports and photos up go check em out. Serena had a weekend of dominating the ladies up in Seattle, check out her report. Don had a great race in the mud and won again, he is on the road doing intervals in hotels, read up.

Back to riding in the garage as the darkness keeps catching me with no time...With that comes a hunt for new music to listen to while doing intervals in a sweaty garage...any suggestions?

Here's what I have going right now
-Kid Cudi - the new album is super good
-Ghostland Observatory
-Free Energy
- Pandora - Rap

Whatcha got?

Balance

2010-11-03T20:50:00.000-07:00

Seeing as it's already Wed night and I am just now turning some attention to this blog, I feel like last weekends racing was a long time ago, and I don't have the energy to remember back that far to recall the muddy, pain filled, crash-fest that was my weekend. I had a blast, that is the report from last weekend, really, it was fun, and I didn't have great results, but it was a great time.photo- pedalpowerphotography.com

What I have been thinking a lot about lately is balance. How do you balance work, relationships, chores around the house, bike maintenance, training, racing, and all the other things that don't fall into these neat little categories...There are lots of sacrifices that must be made, prioritizing done, things pushed aside until...well, thanksgiving I guess.

I have a relatively easy schedule to balance compared to those with 9-5 jobs. I have never been one to get up early and do a workout...I suppose if I didn't have to be at work till later, maybe I could pull that off, but I work roughly from 7am to 3pm (usually its more like 4pm). I am not about to get up at 5am to do intervals. I don't have more than 40 min at lunch. Most days I am lucky to be home and on the bike by 5. These short fall days, getting on the bike at 5 means packing the blinky lights and finishing workouts in the dark. By the time I get home I clean up, stretch, make some dinner and by the time that everything is cleaned up I'm left with maybe an hour of free time. There is so much that gets pushed aside, put off, delayed, left out. That's cross season, that's the way the fall goes.

I am in awe of riders who are successful with much tougher schedules, with families, with different work schedules, with hours that make riding outside nearly impossible. I don't have a lot of patience for riding in the garage when it's beautiful outside. It's all about priorities and balance. The sacrifices we make are part of playing this game we get to play. Sure, it's hard, but you make it a priority because it's something you do, it's who you are, because it's more than a hobby. Some days it's a fight to get on the bike with things getting in the way, other days it's it's a mental fight. Some days it's the exhaustion, it's been a long day, and sitting down with some coffee and magazine sounds like a great afternoon. But, getting on the bike is more than a hobby, it's something I need, even when I am exhausted, especially when I am exhausted. Staying balanced is just as big a challenge as any 'cross race.

Chasing the Dream

2010-10-30T10:43:00.000-07:00

I recently wrote a column for Cyclocross Magazine. It just got put up last week, the timing was rather appropriate as I was having a rough week and feeling misunderstood, I think this sums things up well. Check it out, leave a comment, and thanks for the encouragement, it really means a lot.

Read it Here

Downeast Cyclocross

2010-10-28T20:00:00.000-07:00

Friday 6:00 am- up and getting ready for school
7:45 am - The first class of the day begins
3:15pm - Done with work, jump in the car, drive to Portland
7:00 pm- Get into the airport and check in for flight, get some food, try and take a nap.
9:00 pm - Flight departs for Newark - try and sleep on plane
Saturady 5:45 am - Arrive Newark - try to sleep for two hours on the floor of the airport
7:45 am - Leave Newark for Portland ME
9:00 am - Arrive Portland ME - Run around, get bike, get food, pack lunch, check over bike, pack gear, head to race course.
12:00 - Arrive at race course, warm up, pre-ride, change.
3:00pm - RACE!

I had decided a couple months back to take some miles that were about to expire and visit my family in Maine as well as sneak in some racing in a couple UCI races back east. I knew this would be difficult with my teaching schedule and only being able to get one extra day off. It wasn't meant to be a point hunt as I had no illusions about being in the top ten of these races with some seriously fast guys. Regardless, I wanted to go out and race in New England, visit my family, and see what the scene was in Maine.

Driving to the course brought back memories of New England falls. Colorful foliage, the rocky Maine coast, beautiful farms, stone walls, old historic houses all greeted us as we drove. Arriving at the course on Sat I was excited, I felt tired, but seemed like I had some energy. It was clear, sunny, beautiful, and just a little bit windy. The course was great, twisty, technical, and fast. There were lots of tight banked turns, off camber corners on slick grass, and quick power sections that required accelerating into more twisty turns. I followed other riders around a few pre-ride laps and then just stayed warm on the trainer.

A good call up position found me in the second row. The gun went off and I missed clipping in...bobble...so much for my start position, people were streaming past me. I got on the gas, chased my position back, the first lap was chaos, everyone was together, elbows were out, pushing in all the tight corners, trying to sneak around in all the wrong spots. I couldn't relax...I was riding like an idiot, taking too many chances, wasting energy, stressing out, riding the wrong lines, generally spazzing. As the race strung out, I settled down a bit, but most of the damage was done, I was tired, and exhausted both mentally and physically. I found my position and speed that I could stay at and just hung on. It was a little of a shock to the system, but it was a good effort and I was glad to have gotten out, checked out the course, and seen what I was up against.

An early night and a great sleep found me back out at the course on Sun feeling a whole lot more refreshed and ready to race. The weather was a little colder, but less wind, and some clouds. The course had been changed only slightly with some tricky dismounts, but mostly the same. This time I wasn't so lucky with the start position and found myself at the very back. Still, I had a good start and followed some aggressive riders up through the field and into the first corner in a decent position. The first laps were more of the same as the group (with he exception of the front) stayed fairly tight. Every corner seemed to be a battle, I found that I could ride corners and technical sections a lot faster than most folks, but they often had more acceleration and top end speed...I kept yo yo-ing back and forth with riders through technical sections. Eventually I made it through the group I was with and got a gap on a climb up through the woods. I put in a tough lap, rode smart and started to make contact with another group of three in front of me. More of the same, I would catch them in the technical infield and then they would get a gap on me on the more open sections. With two to go I started making passes in the infield, with one to go I was on the front of this group, sitting in the top twenty and happy with where I was and how I was riding. Last lap, I went down the bumpy descent in the woods and as I started to climb out my chain bounced over the top of the chain guard...a few pedal strokes confirmed that I would need to jump off...I got off the bike as fast as I could and got it back on but the group of three behind me caught up just as I was jumping back on. Chase ensued, I managed to catch back and pass one of the group, but that would be my finish position as we rounded the corner and sprinted towards the finish. I was really happy with my race in the end. It wasn't necessarily the result I would have liked, but I raced as hard as I have raced all season and pushed myself to my limit. In the end I felt like I couldn't have gone any harder and that to me is what made it a great race.

Overall, it was a great weekend. It was a crazy amount of travel for a little racing, but I also got to see my family and my little niece which most definitely made it worth it. And as an added bonus on the way home I took a bump and got some $ for flying next time. Not bad.

Stay tuned for some photos. Here's a write up of the race from Sat I did for cyclocross magazine
-a flickr set from day 1
-a flickr set from day 2

Another double race weekend of fun coming up, can't wait for the madness. Check out Serena's and Damian's blogs from their weekend of mud at PIR.

Perspective

2010-10-27T20:17:00.000-07:00

It's been a frustrating and tiring week. I got on my bike cleared my mind and things looked up. It's amazing what a bike ride can do. For some people bikes and racing are a hobby, something they do for fun on the weekend, something to stay in shape. There's abosultely nothing wrong with that. But that is not me, racing bikes, training, competiton, these things are something different for me. I don't think I can make a living racing bikes, and yes I have a full time job, but cyclocross is more than something I do for fun. For those whom it's a hobby, for those who do this simply for fun, it's easy to misunderstand this perspective. Last weekend I went to Maine (stay tuned for the report). It was a lot of effort, time, and money for a couple races. Was it worth it? Absolutely yes! If you get this, if you understand....thank you and thanks for listening.

Cross Crusade Sherwood - #3

2010-10-18T21:38:00.000-07:00

As I went into the barrier at the ditch for the last time I had just closed the gap on a rider in front of me, I didn't know who he was, but I knew he had gotten away from me early in the race. I was spent, exhausted, and feeling empty. I had used the last lap to try and get away from 2 or 3 riders I had been battling with most of the race. I had left them behind and now found myself with a new person to chase. My inner monologue went something like this...

well, I got this far, I don't need to pass this guy, he was going faster than me to begin with, I should be happy to have caught him, I should just ride his wheel and stay away from those chasers, I don't have the energy to pass this guy anyways, just stay away from those chasers, just finish, one last climb.

But when I got to the climb the cheers and encouragement snapped me out of it..."Pass that guy" I heard a familiar voice yell "Get him on the hill" yelled another...And just like that the monologue changed.

You know what, pretend that this is the difference between top ten and eleven, you are climbing this hill for a point, make this the race, you have 30 seconds of pain left, do it.

And so when the second little rise came, I pulled around and dug deep into the final corner in the lead and held it to the line. I didn't know where I was in the race, it didn't matter to me, this moment was my race. Indeed, it was the difference though and I ended up slotting into 18th place and snagging 1 little point. How bummed I would have been to have been that close and not tried. What if I had just sat in?

This is what racing is all about for me, playing the mental games, pushing through when it's easier to tell yourself that you are done. I don't usually know where I stand in the race, I just try and make every pass a battle and a race. There was a NYtimes article just today that recounts what makes some elite athletes successful...so much of it is mental. I have to work on my inner monologue, it's just as important as any interval workout or tough training ride.

What a beautiful day riding around in the sun. It was a challenging course and the crusades as always are such an amazing spectacle to behold. Pulling up to the course and seeing the pasture full of tents, bikes, racers, kids, spectators, and everything else is like showing up to a party with all the people you really want to see.

Great races by all, Mike stuck it to the top ten, D was mixing it up at the front, and Serena mashed her way to the podium.

This weekend I am on the road...errr air for a little trip back to Maine to jump in a couple races. I have told myself from the begining it's not a point hunt as I have no illusions about how hard it is to get in the top ten no matter where you race. I am just super excited to be racing back east at a new venue and to see some family and show em what's up. Regardless of the outcome you can be sure I am gonna go all out and represent!

Cyclocross Nationals Registration - Bend- Dec 8-12th

2010-10-10T21:28:00.000-07:00

Registration will open tomorrow for Cyclocross Nationals in Bend. If you haven't checked out all the info on the USA cycling site, they've done a good job of updating the info and getting everything in one place. Check out the info here. You can register on the USA cycling site (at certain times depending on what category you are racing, all the info can be found in the pdf file linked below).

If you haven't already read, it shouldn't be a rush to register this year as start position is not based on registration time as it was last year, but rather will be based on a time trial the day before your age group race (unless you get a call up from being in the top 7 from last years race)...this means you have to be here an extra day, but it also makes start position a little more fair. Read about the call up procedures, time trail start times, cost of registration and much more here.

See you in Bend this December!

Cross Crusade #2 - Rainer

2010-10-10T14:34:00.000-07:00

(Photo: A. Kieppela)

What started as a stormy morning quickly transformed into a puffy cloud, sun filled afternoon of racing in the mud. The damage had been done however and as the whistle went off we raced into a churned up, slick, slog-fest of a course that would challenge riders both mentally and physically. There were few spots to rest, but plenty of lung busting climbs, greasy corners, slippery root descents, and plenty wheel sucking, derailleur sucking mud sections to keep legs burning. Ahhh Rainer. In some way we cyclocross racers are all masochists, we enjoy the pain that comes from 45 min or an hour of racing in these conditions. It gives focus and clarity. There is nothing but the suffering and a distinct objective to endure.

Rainer certainly dished out the pain for me. A back row call up found me charging up hill immediately trying to make up for last ground and finding a few spots, but not getting where I needed to be. I played Damian's mantra through my head "slow is smooth, smooth is fast..." and plucked away riders as they lost ground, made little mistakes, blew out derailleurs, or otherwise gave in to the demons. I tried not to make mistakes, focused on staying upright, and generally kept myself moving, no small feat on this day. And it worked for the most part. I moved up, I passed riders, I stayed away. I enjoyed getting through sections, not letting the frustration get to me and being patient. I would have loved to pick up a few spots, but I was happy with my effort and how I rode. I am improving significantly on previous years results and I have to trust that the improvement will continue.
(photo: pdxcross)

There's a lot of joy racing around with hundreds of like minded folks of all different abilities. Everyone gets it. The smiles after finishing, the cheering, the nods in acknowlegement of shared suffering. It's really what makes cross different.

Riding home we basked in the endorphin afterglow and lingering sunshine, singing to the music, picking mud from our ears, laughing, and tired.

I love it!

Check with D and Serena for their reports.

Cross Crusade - Alpenrose

2010-10-04T20:10:00.000-07:00

(photo pdx cross)
Dairyland, dust, bumps, grassy corners, fast barriers, screaming, cowbells, stairs, burning legs...that is what I can remember of the race. I love love love Alpenrose, it's always so good to start the crusade series here, this is where I first raced cyclocross on an old hard tail mountain bike, I was as hooked then as I am now.

As for a report, it was a good race for me, better than expected. Looking at the results doesn't tell the full tale. I want to be in the top 15...that is where I should be, but not yet. Last year I finished in the back of the field somewhere in the near 40's at Alpenrose. This year I was nearly 20 spots better. Last year I felt like I was just hanging on, this year I felt like I raced. Had I started off better I think I would have been sitting in something more like 17th or 18th. I can ride with those guys, I just couldn't close the gap up to them after my less than stellar start. If I keep getting shitty position, I am just going to have to be more aggressive on the first lap, that's all there is to it. Still, I am really happy with my race, I felt strong, I had an absolute blast, and it's the first race of the season. This is better than where I wanted to be, so here we go!

A huge thanks should go out to some of the support this season, it's so awesome to have the help and gear. Of course Sunnyside has been so amazing between getting gear tuned up and ready for the races, and getting us what we need, they rock! The smith sunglasses are perfect, light and tons of coverage, check out the Pivlock V90's . Ibex has stepped up, which is awesome because it's something I would use no matter what, I'm loving the sleeveless wool base layer, it's probably the piece of gear I wear most. Hammer keeps us fueled and a little espresso gel shot always does the trick for me. Also super psyched to roll back to the Van after the race and find some new tins of Embro waiting. Northwest Knee Warmers will be shining on the legs this season, I am looking forward to some cold weather to try out the Aren Burn medium, it smells soooo good. Also look for a few of us to be sporting some sweet new socks and warmers, DeFeet is the sock I love anyways, and now I can roll some of their sweet warmers and compression gear too! Check these great sponsors out or stop by and I'll show you what we're using.

So kick ass to be in Portland for a weekend and to be back racing cross with old friends, new friends, teammates, and the amazing 1500+ people at Alpenrose. One of the best parts of the crusades is the sense of community, it was great to get to the race early, catch up with friends, get some bobs red mill, some coffee and yell at some friends, check out the tent scene (Lazy T's were killing it). Sunnyside was representing, D had an amazing race, taking the lead early and hanging with the front of the race until a nasty crash dropped him back a few spots. Serena slayed a whole pile of the ladies field and took home some cash. Ruth took on the nearly 100 women in the beginners and made the top 20. Mike with a top 10 in the master A field. We had so many folks out racing, everyone did awesome, a huge shout out to them all, it was great seeing you all race!

Also check out some coverage.
CXMagazine - Here
Velonews - Here
PDX Cross (amazing photos) - Here

See ya next week!

Starcrossed and The Rad Racing Grand Prix of Cyclocross

2010-09-20T20:39:00.000-07:00

What a weekend, I was a little unsure of what I was getting myself into at this point in the season, but Serena and I made the Sat morning drive up to Seattle for Starcrossed and the Rad Racing GP of Cyclocross. These are certainly some of the bigger races of the season and part of the NACT series. Despite my less than adequate fitness this time of year; I know the races are super fun, and that's why I go back year after year.
(photos: Joe Sales)
Riding around in circles in the dark and rain, listening to French being spoken between two seasoned world cup riders from Europe, and knowing I was about to line up behind them was a little surreal. Serena wrote a post about this the other day. There are any number of amazing althetes competing on any given thursday evening local race in Bend. Still, there I was, numbers pinned for the first time this season, lining up behind some of my heroes of the sport. Like she says, you can choose to be intimidated or you can choose to be inspired. I decided I would just race my ass off; that's what I was there for after all.

I nervously watched as Serena lined up with the elite women and went charging around the course. She raced her heart out, and rode smooth and strong. She came away with a stellar finish on the lead lap and with style.

After a rushed warm up routine I made my way to the starting area. I had a great start position, and lined up on the outside so I wouldn't be squeezed in the first corner. I looked around sheepishly and then just decided that I had every much as right to be there as anyone. I slammed on the pedals as the gun went off, screaming up the left side, slotting into position, and barely on the edge of control sliding through the first corner. The sounds of crashing, and brakes barely working in the downpour that was going in earnest faintly registered in my mind. I stood up and pushed towards the next turn, more crashes and swearing. I was in the right place and at the right time, finding my way around tangles, lines opening up at the last second right in front of me, weaving through traffic, sticking corners, all with a huge smile on my face. The crowds were deafening, familiar voices from the darkness, rain and mud obscured what little vision there was in the dim light, my legs burned, I grinned...cross season was here!

I kept hearing the whistle of lapped riders being pulled. I tried to register where the leaders were on the course, but I rode my own race, chased the riders I could, and stayed away from the ones behind me. I was loving every minute of it. In the end I was pulled with a few laps to go for the leaders and watched them go streaming by, but I couldn't have been happier with my race. I raced hard and couldn't have had more fun, that was the plan.

Sunday found us out at Lake Sammamish for the Rad Racing GP and more of the same. We set up the tent right along the finish stretch and went to work getting ready. Intermittent rain and sun set up the course to be a slippery technical mess. I watched from the trainer as Serena flew around the course, gaining on riders each lap and finishing off in an amazing 13th place. I lined up just as some of the heaviest showers of the day subsided and the sun broke out. I slipped my way around the first lap and dropped further back as I got caught in bobbles and crashes. I got lazy on passes and sat behind riders I knew I could pass, my legs were there, but my mind wasn't and I went through the motions, but wasn't in the race. I still had a damn good time, riding the beach, slipping around, and crashing my ass off. It was great, just not a great race for me.

(Photo: Suzanne Marie)
It's great to have teammates that think alike and the long drive back to Bend from Seattle late on a Sunday night flew by as we dissected our races, schemed how we could travel to more, and generally rocked out to Hall and Oates. A great weekend of racing and a great way to kick off the season. See ya at Alpenrose!

And so it begins

2010-09-14T20:45:00.000-07:00

What's been up lately...not writing here. It seems like its always a challenge to get back to the blog in the fall. Summer usually sees me traveling and eeking every little bit of time I can away from the computer and the indoors. This is a cyclocross blog so it seems only appropriate that it starts back up again now along with the season which is most definitely about to kick back into gear. That being said, it was a busy summer to say the least. Here's the bulleted list format of whats gone down in the absence of my writing here.

- Most of the summer was spent in Ghana (I guess that is sorta reported here, although there is a lot more to tell)
-Getting back in August and chasing those base miles.
-Planning a wedding (mine)
-Going to a bunch of weddings
-All sorts of family visiting for our wedding
-Getting married
-Getting back to work
-Getting back to training
-Starting to race

Well, that about brings us back to the present and to cyclocross. As per usual, my September fitness is not what it could be had I spent a summer to training for cross. But, hey getting married and traveling are a hell of a lot more fun then training for cyclocross, and well, it's a long season, the legs will come around.

I am actually really enjoying the training right now, it's hard, but there are tangible improvements as each week passes into the next. I've made the transition from the base miles to trying to get a little more power and speed. The workouts are more focused, intense, and interesting. Of course the few races I have done are painful. The new thrilla course is tough, with long power sections and a big run up, it certainly doesn't suit where my training is thus far, but each week it's been a little better and it's definitely making me faster. I am on the program of racing into shape. With that in mind I decided to head up to Seattle for the weekend to get my legs torn off under the lights. I figured if I am going to get my ass handed to me I might as well have fun doing it, and there aren't a lot of races more fun than Starcrossed under the lights, with crowds, beers, and some amazing talent, plus a new course for the Rad Racing GP with a beach section that includes a Deschutes Brewery beer tent...sounds awesome. Plus as a bonus I get to yell at my amazing teammate Serena who is in much better shape and is going to do the leg tearing herself.

I am really excited about this season. Cyclocross Nationals will be back in Bend, the course is going to be longer. I have high hopes and I am committed to improving on last year. I am going to train smarter and harder. I am getting to do a little travel for racing thanks to some airline miles, and we're working on building some relationships with sponsors that will be mutually beneficial. It's gonna be a fun weekend in Seattle. Here we go!

Photos from Ghana

2010-08-04T19:35:00.001-07:00

I have not sorted through these and there are a lot, but here they ALL are. I'll get a "best of" set together at some pt soon.

All the Photos on Flickr

Leaving Mampong, Final Travel

2010-07-24T20:07:00.000-07:00

The last week in the community has been amazing; we really bonded with our families and settled into the way of life in our small village in such a short time.

This past week we put a lot of hard work into the library which included mixing cement, painting and even learning to plaster! Thanks to your generosity we were able to finish the building and it looks amazing. It now has a roof and finished floors and has been painted to match the surrounding school buildings. The community will shortly be assembling the doors and windows with materials we supplied. Your fundraising efforts also helped us purchase the first books for this new library!

With the help of community members, we gathered bamboo in the jungle and built bamboo benches next to the school and at the sidelines of the school’s soccer field. When not on the work site, we spent time teaching in the school and practicing our Fante language skills.

Last night we had our final ceremony which was incredible to say the least. We were treated to many speeches from community members, school officials, district representatives, village elders and the acting chief. The community made us hand-sewn outfits from traditional fabric which we wore with great pride. Several of us also gave speeches thanking our homestay families for this experience that we’ve shared over the past few weeks. Later in the evening we were treated to musical performances from school children along with performances from various dancers and drummers. A highlight of the evening was receiving a goat as a parting gift which was later cooked and served to us for dinner!

This morning the whole community gathered to see us off and there were many tears shed by both students and families... some host moms
even climbed on the bus to try to go with us because they didn't want to let us go.

After we left the community we had an amazing visit to Kakum National Park. We are now looking forward to spending some time on the
beach where we can relax and take in some drumming and dance lessons.

Best,
The Ghana Group

Life in rural Ghana

2010-07-10T04:51:00.000-07:00

It's been an amazing couple weeks in Ghana, after orientation we made the transition to the community and all that entailed. We have been fully welcomed into our host families and feel very much a part of the small community we are living in. Life in the village is at a different pace for sure. Each afternoon we walk to one of the two wells in the village and carry our water back on our heads to shower with, as we walk to work in the morning we are constantly greeted by the families and usually followed by a parade of small children not to mention goats, sheep, and chickens. we have really enjoyed talks with our families, working and playing with all the kids in the communtiy, and the hospitality the village has shown us despite their lack of resources. In the interest of time I am just gonna list out some highlights,

Highlights, things going on etc

-amazing welcome to the community, all the kids and adults cheering and dancing, gave us a village tour, welcome cerermony, dinner and introductions to our homestay mothers.

-Learning our daily rituals has been fun, bucket showers, hauling water, doing laundry.

-students have all been teaching in the school and really enjoying this

-the worksite is coming along excellent, we have the walls and foundation all done, we have been moving a lot of sand/dirt and mixing lots of cement. we will do floors next week and then hopefully plaster, paint, roofing...

-the students have all had their first taste of fufu and are finding all sorts of ghanian food they love, especially the coco yam leaves and their eggs at breakfast as well as the kenke and banku.

-they are adjusting well to life in the community and on the worksite, they have really loved being with their host families and especially their host brothers and sisters.

-work has been tiring and rewarding, its been amazing to see the progress and see our work begining to pay off. the community has been so appreciative and hospitable, its been really heartwarming.

-using and learning more and more fante and getting to speak with members of our community.

That's all for now, we are in town for some saturday errands and a trip to the beach for swimming. Hope this finds everyone well.

The latest from GHANA

2010-07-03T12:31:00.000-07:00

I pasted below the update we sent off to parents...I don't have a separate update for all of you as time is short. Suffice to say, things here are incredible...tiring, hot, and sometimes stressful, bvt we wouldn't trade it. It's been amazing and I look forward to filling you all in soon.
Without further ado...

Greetings from GHANA! wow what an amazing first week we have had. After arriving in Accra and getting out of the city we made our way to the Volta region in the eastern highlands along the border with Togo. Here we settled into our surroundings and began learning the first of our Fante words which we have been studying since (we are getting better all the time). Our very first full day we were treated to an amazing hike to Wli falls, an amazing waterfall set in the jungle with the most perfect pool for swimming at its base. We were able to walk behind the waterfall, swim, and cool off. Words cannot describe the beauty of the falls and the surrounding mountains and jungle. The students agreed it was an amazing day and a perfect welcome to the country. We have been treated to a variety of amazing activities so far...Visiting the monkey sanctuary, hiking mount afajato (the highest mountain in Ghana) and visiting a traditional Kente weaving community where the students got a chance to try weaving. All these amazing adventures don't even begin to take into account all the friendly people we have met, the delicious food, the sights, sounds, smells, and the friends we are already making. We arrived in Cape Coast this afternoon to do errands and prepare for the transition to the village. The group is in good health and high spirits as we prepare for our entry into community life. We can't wait to share more of our adventures with you and fill you in as we go. Hope this finds everyone well.

Team Ghana 2010

Update from Cape Coast Ghana

2010-06-25T05:28:00.000-07:00

Wow, it's been an amazing journey so far and it's been less than a week. Mostly I have been getting tasks done for the students arrival (confirming reservations, checking out accommodations, visiting the community we will live in, holding meetings with local villagers, checking out health facilities and pharmacies) but I have gotten to spend some time with some amazing people and check out the village where will live. It's going to be rustic to say the least...they are building a few toilets for the students to share now, currently there is just the trees. But the community is so thrilled for our students to arrive and to work with us and host us. It's very encouraging to feel so welcomed. They are planning an elaborate welcome ceremony which sounds incredible. What the village lacks in resources and comfort it makes up for in hospitality.

It's been tiring, hot, and a lot of work, but well worth it so far. Currently I am in Cape Coast near the ocean, it's a crazy town with a mix of both urban and rural settings right on the water. The country is absolutely NUTS about their "football" and Ghana will play the US tomorrow in the world cup. Everyone I meet wants to know if I am supporting Ghana...Tough decision, but I think I better stay safe and root for Ghana while I am here. Anyways, I have to get errands done now, because with the soccer game tomorrow I will not get much done as literally everything stops for soccer games if Ghana is playing.

The students will be here in 3 short days, but we are feeling ready at this end of the world and anxious to share more stories with you soon.

PS. Thank you so much to those who have donated, we have been buying supplies this week and the project site is ready for the students to dig in. If you can still help even a little bit it's not too late, please visit the firstgiving site

Adios Amigos

2010-06-15T16:28:00.000-07:00

It's been a crazy last week or two and with school getting out early I am off for Ghana sooner than I had originally planned.

This is just to say goodbye and to wish everyone that I didn't catch an amazing summer. We will be back by the first of August. I'll be trying to put updates on the trip here so check back occasionally.

Enjoy whatever adventures this summer brings you!

Toto!

2010-06-13T17:39:00.000-07:00

A classic, straight outta 1982

Fun Times

2010-06-09T21:20:00.000-07:00

Down to the last few days of work and riding for a while. I haven't had the time or energy to put into writing here. Here's what's up in bullet format.

-Been riding the new trek road bike a bunch...it's sooo choice. 6 series madone with Sram Force, it both climbs and descends like nothing I have ridden and weighed in right around 15 lbs with the DA wheels.
-Chopping wood for the fireplace
-It's been rainy
-Lots of mountain biking without having to feel like it's a training ride. Been really enjoying the funner trail and the new trails being built around Wanoga. A kick ass run of going down tiddlywinks, up funner, down funner, across to storm king, down whoops, and home with Serena
-The new Smith glasses are ridiculously nice. Got hooked up with a pair of the VXE's and some Evolve Lockwoods, still waiting on the PivLock V90's.
-Deadlines, editing, so many deadlines.
-Trying to get ready for Ghana (please help out if you can)
-Herbs in the garden.
-Saw some amazing shows the the tower thanks to the PDXChange program. Please support this endeavor, it's bringing some amazing talent to Bend. Helio Sequence with Empty Space was one of the best shows I have seen in a very long time anywhere.
-3 and half days of school left...damn that went fast...it's gonna be cross season before we know it.

Thats it for now peeps. Stay tuned for some Africa updates.

ps. Bendcyclocross.org is also now Bendcyclocross.com (your links should still work...if they don't it would be awesome if you fix em.)

More on Ghana

2010-05-23T07:40:00.000-07:00

As it gets closer we get more and more info on our upcoming trip to Ghana.

We will be starting our trip in the Capital of Accra, and in Cape Coast. The community we will live with and spend the bulk of our time in (Manpaong) is north of Cape Coast in mountains. Manpong, is a rural, picturesque and traditional village nestled in the lush coastal landscape of the Mfanstiman District in south-central Ghana. Manpong is located about 30 km from Cape Coast, a historic coastal town approximately 80 miles west of Accra, the
capital of Ghana. A small, farming community with a population of roughly 600, or 50
households, the main crops grown are citrus fruit, cocoa, palm trees (for nuts, fronds and
oil), cassava, and other sustenance vegetables, as well as maize. The community we will live in has many needs, but while we are there we will undertake the construction of a small library.

It's coming up quick and we have been soaking up as much info as we can and getting ready. There is a ton of info about Ghana online (this site is particularly good if you are interested). We watched an amazing movie about a disabled athlete from Ghana who rode his bike across the country. Emmanuel's Gift is an amazing story, definitely worth watching whether you are interested in Ghana or not.

What I think is really amazing is that the project we undertake is entirely funded by donations, Ruth and I as well as the students will fundraise and 100% of the donations will go to the project we undertake while we are in the community. Anything we raise above and beyond what it costs to build the library will be used to buy things like books or a computer. I will literally go down a week ahead of the students and start purchasing building supplies. As we prepare, we would love your help. There are a bunch of folks who have donated so far and we really appreciate it. If you want more info on our organization go here: globalroutes.org. If you can donate (even $5 helps) Please visit our donation site. We will update here as we can with info on how the summer is going. We wouldn't be able to undertake these projects without the support of friends and family, so thank you!

Winding down...?

2010-05-17T21:04:00.000-07:00

It's been a few tough weeks of racing, some double weekends, windy training rides, rain, sun, snow...spring in Central Oregon.

It's been a humbling season to say the least. I read a comment by Don on Serena's blog about expectations. Don is one of the people I most respect in all of bike racing and he knows his stuff. This year I decided to race in the pro category for mt bike season. I had been coming in the top few of the cat 1 races last year and just decided to mix it up. It's been extremely humbling and hard mentally to watch the field ride away at the start of the race and be racing alone. You have to remember that the pro racers are mostly guys that have been at this for a decade or more and in some cases have a lot more time and resources to dedicate to racing. I have been racing mt bikes a short 3 seasons in earnest. What Don said that really rang true is that to expect to be racing at the level of the top pros really doesn't honor the commitment and time they have put in. Mountain biking is really about the long term commitment, hours of training, and serious dedication. These are also the things that make it a beautiful sport, it rewards dedication, patience, and persistence. I'll keep at it.

I looked at a calendar last week and suddenly realized that my bike racing season was coming to an end rather quickly. I leave for Ghana within two days of school being out (June 20th) and that leaves me with only two races left to do. I had visions of doing the Mt Hood Cycling Classic, but realized that it's a little too much to take on so close to the end of the year and without my own road bike which has been delayed. All I have left is one proper mt bike race out in Sisters which I can't wait for, it should be an awesome race and my last race of the season, the one I think I am most psyched about. I will head down to Ashland with a pile of teammates, spend some time enjoying the area, ride the Umpqua trail, and race the super D which is a discipline I have not done before, but know will be a blast. That'll be it. I'll be bound for Africa the next weekend and not bike till August 1st at which point cyclocross training will kick into full gear. A good month and a half off the bike seems to do me well. I'll try and run while in Africa to keep the lungs going, but nothing serious. I look at this way...Cyclocross is almost here.

Eugene Roubaix / Mudslinger Double Weekend

2010-05-05T20:54:00.000-07:00

I doubled up last weekend and had a great time racing around the valley. Not a lot of energy to write up proper reports of the races. Suffice to say, I was left tired and happy. Regardless, here's a brief attempt

Eugene went well, I sat in most of the race, a few breaks looked like they would stick and I tried to get into a few, but nothing ever got too far out. We went as a bunch into the gravel on the last lap and I wasn't in the best position, but tried to be patient. I waited till the pavement and tried for my same move from last year going a little early up the right side, it was too little too late though. I moved up quite a bit, but not enough for the W.

Mudslinger was a blast when it was going downhill, the rest I would just assume forget. I felt as sluggish as possible and went backwards the entire race. Not the result or effort I knew I could do, but a good time none the less.

Another double weekend coming up with Bend Don't Brake on Sat and Chainbreaker on Sun. Should be awesome, the trails are perfect. See you out there.

(photos Pat Malach Oregon Cycling Action)

Bear Springs Trap XC Mountain Bike Race

2010-04-26T20:54:00.000-07:00

Oregon mountain biking doesn't get much better than this race. Tight twisty single track, grinding climbs, views, creeks, roots, rocks, gravel...all good stuff. This is one of the tougher races on the Oregon calendar, but it's also one of the best for the same reasons.

So for my race... I felt really strong, really felt like I was racing for the start loop. I was moving up, feeling ready, strong, having a blast. I came across the first scree field (riding it) and jumped off at the very end of it when I caught some of the riders in front of me...I jumped back on to start the quick descent and climb and it felt like maybe my cleat was loose or something was wrong with my pedal. Maybe it was walking across those rocks that loosened my cleat I thought, but I was moving up, starting to pass people on the climb, I didn't want to stop at this point. I was hoping that whatever it was would just last long enough for me to finish. I think though I knew I would have to stop, but didn't want to admit that to myself. Well, turns out I didn't have much choice. I came around a corner and stood up to stomp up the next steep section and my whole non drive side crank arm came off, still attached to my foot...Well, guess it wasn't my cleat. I did a little damage assesment. I have a multi tool with some allen wrenches, no big deal I thought. I pieced it back together, threaded things into place grabbed my tool...TOO SMALL, DAMN. I had a 7mm, no 8mm which is what I needed. Riders began passing me, I tried in vain to hand tighten it and make it up the hill (there were some volunteers at the top of the climb, maybe they would have the right wrench), it popped right back off. I threaded it back on, I began asking riders that came by for a wrench. All my sunnyside teammates doing the long course came by grinding up the hill, everyone just had air and tubes. No luck. I began walking, as people passed I would ask, but without much luck. Eventually someone stopped and threw me their tool and took back off. Solid. I tightened it on and mashed up the rest of the climb.

Into the single track I went, now behind riders that were struggling on the rocks and roots that I knew I could ride. I was incredibly frustrating, but eventually the singletrack opened up and I made enough passes that I could go at my pace. My "race" was done, but I had a lot of riding to do and I got a great workout in on some amazing trails. I really love this race and this course.

Got to ride around in the sun on amazing trail, race with friends, catch up with friends, get in a great workout, so no complaints.

Sunnyside was out in force, we must have had almost 15 riders racing by my count...and I am probably forgetting someone. Great performances by all, I think we had at least 4 or 5 podium spots. Serena took another win and was right on the tail of those pro women. But one rider in particular deserves a huge shout out... Don who won his category in a race that has eluded him for a while. Don is an amazing rider that has had a lot of success in mountain bike racing in Oregon and he has been doing it for a while (since the early 80's). I only hope that I can be doing the same in another 25 years. Don is an inspiration, a mentor, and a wealth of knowledge. Great race Don! And great race to all the Sunnyside folks!

Racing in the Sun - Table Rock Road Race

2010-04-19T21:02:00.000-07:00

High 60's and Sun. That's my kind of racing weather. A good 70 miles and some fast riding was just what I needed. It was great to get the legs going and do some racing.

A great evening and relaxing morning in Ashland before the race. The race was a combined 1/2/3 field so I was psyched to be racing with some fast guys and putting some miles in. I was on a rental from Sunnyside (you guys are the best) and things were looking good.

The race started out real reasonably and the first few climbs were a preview of what was to come. The pace definitely was fast, but nothing unmanageable and I was glad to be feeling strong and sitting in. We crested the steep finish climb and immediately hammered down the descent (which proved to be almost harder than the climb as folks were all over the road and just flying.) The middle of the race saw us losing a lot of folks off the back on the climbs, but still with a solid field of 20 or so going into the last lap. I was feeling tired, but still like I had enough. The pace picked up slightly, but I was still hanging. A few folks had gotten away but we began to pull them in on the long climb and that's when the field shattered. Seeing the break, the front of the field picked it up and chaos followed. The field splintered, folks were coming off the back and I was off the back. Pretty soon a good bunch of folks grouped together to chase the 10 or 12 folks who crested the climb about 30 seconds ahead. We were almost at the top in a good group, I was glad to be with some folks and thought we might work to pull back the group, there was still 5 or so miles and one big steep finish climb. We crested the top together and I stood up on the pedals to get a little stretch...that's when the cramp hit, I felt it coming on, but this was to the point that I had to unclip and stop for a second, that was the race for me. I watched the pack slip away as I limped my way along trying to stop my right leg from seizing up...I finished the last few miles by myself and passed a few other stragglers to come up the climb in 8th in the cat 3 field.

I wasn't too disappointed as I had gotten some good racing in and it was a great workout. A beautiful day and a super well organized and run race. It was awesome to race with the 1/2 guys and was a lot of fun. Serena crushed as usual, taking her field, and hanging with some seriously fast ladies. I have no doubt she will continue to crush the 1/2 field with her upgrade. Solid.

Project Ghana

2010-04-15T20:41:00.000-07:00

Ruth and I recently found out we'll be leading a trip to Ghana this summer. This will be my fourth summer leading these trips, and we couldn't happier about heading to Africa. We'll be leading a bunch of High school kids in some community service work for an organization called Global Routes. The idea with Global Routes is that as peoples of the world become increasingly interdependent we must all recognize that we live in a global community. The future of this community depends upon our self-knowledge as well as upon mutual understanding and respect among diverse cultures. Global Routes deepens these roots of our shared community as they foster personal and international development. Undertaking voluntary work overseas allows North American youth the opportunity to push past stereotypes and misconceptions to build strong relationships and self-understanding, as well as buildings. Their foreign exchange programs help the global community to flourish.

Ruth and I both couldn't be more impressed with the mission of the organization, and what it ends up achieving. It's a lot of work, it's certainly not a vacation, but we wouldn't be doing it, nor would we ask for your help if we didn't think is was really worthwhile and valuable.

Global Routes is a tax-exempt non-profit, non-governmental, non-sectarian organization committed to strengthening our global community through voluntary work overseas.

All of the participants (leaders included) are asked to fundraise for our project. We need to raise money to to pay for materials, pay local villagers who will teach necessary skills and buy books for the children with whom we'll also work. I realize it's a tough time to be asking for money so I am trying to ask as many folks as possible. The donation is fully tax deductable and the nice thing is One hundred percent of your donation will go directly to our groups project. It just goes right to a project fund for our group...I literally take the money myself to purchase supplies and pay for help, the more money we get the more options we have with the project and the more we can supplement the project with things like books and supplies for the community we live in.

If you can even find a way to donate $5 that is greatly appreciated. Please pass this along to friends, businesses, family, anyone you know that can help. With the Economy the way it is we are really trying to find all the sources we can for the project.

Here is the link to a site where you can Donate...Thanks so very much for all your support and thought. We will most definitely keep everyone up to date with photos and stories from the trip.
Thank you so much,

http://www.firstgiving.com/mfox

Limits

2010-04-12T21:49:00.000-07:00

"the bike is the most efficient machine for suffering ever created"

Listened to a radiolab show about limits, endurance, pushing ones self...so interesting. Check it out when you have some time.
Here
Here's their description of the show. I don't think I'll be spitting out my gatorade anytime soon, but sooo interesting.

Limits of the Body
Jad and Robert talk to two Ironman competitors, Julie Moss and Wendy Ingraham to find out how they do what they do. Physiologist Dr. David Jones tells us how to trick the voice in your head that tells you you're exhausted. Then we follow two men, Patrick Autissier and Jure Robic, as they bike across the country as fast as they can in a crazy race called The Ride Across America. Producer Lulu Miller brings us their story and New York Times writer Daniel Coyle walks us through the process of physical and mental breakdown RAAM competitors face.

Mountain Bike Racing: Hornings Hustle

2010-04-11T10:00:00.000-07:00

This was the second mt bike race of the season for me and the beginning of the season in earnest. This time of year in Oregon and especially in the valley can be tricky conditions. In years past Hornings was a mud bog, plenty of years have seen the early season races filled with snowy sections. That's what one expects with mt biking in April in Oregon.

I prepared accordingly going into Sundays race and had the mud tires on expecting it to be slop and pouring rain. It turned out to be a beautiful sunny day with near perfect conditions, slippery in sections, but not really what I would call muddy.

I decided at the start of this season that I would race pro this year. I was finishing in the top few riders of the cat 1 last year and figured racing pro would be a good push and motivator. Well, I guess it has been both of those things so far. After yesterdays performance I am certainly motivated to get a little faster on the mt bike and I was definitely pushed yesterday. These guys are FAST.

The race started up a good steady dirt road climb and I hung on till we hit a short steep dirt climb and some singletrack. I had pushed a bit too hard trying to hang on up the first climb and started losing ground. I recovered a little and caught back up to a few folks but never really moved up from my back of the pro field position. The course was TOUGH, lots of power climbs that left you with little time for recovery on descents. It was a great day regardless and awesome to be racing mt bikes around in the sun with friends and teammates.

Per usual the Sunnyside team was out in force. Lots of great rides including 3 podium appearances from Don, Serena, and Bruce (Who was absolutely flying!). Serena, Lea, and I rolled the van down leaving at 5:30 am. It was so great to have company and ride and race together. Mt biking isn't really a team sport, but having teamates around and a group of friends sure makes it seem that way. Thanks guys and gals...and thanks Lynne Rosetto-Kasper! Can't wait for the next one.

Road Trip Photos

2010-03-28T15:38:00.000-07:00

The set is here and below

A Tough Training Week

2010-03-17T20:39:00.000-07:00

I stand at the stove cooking, legs ache and feel weak. I shift my weight; hungry and tired, but happy. The shaky legs, the ache, are a good sign. It's a build week and I should feel it. It's been beautiful in Bend, warm and sunny. The weather has brought a renewed focus to the bike. As spring approaches, daylight drags on just a little longer, and more races fill the calendar. Afternoons are a rush to get into spandex and on the road or trails. It's a good feeling to put in the miles, to feel the legs come around. There is a focus, I know that as the work day ends another work day begins. I look forward to the work. Putting in work that doesn't show immediate results requires patience. I will be patient, I will do the work.

It just doesn't get much better- Powder and Mountain Bikes

2010-03-14T18:43:00.000-07:00

Couldn't have asked for better weekend. This is one of the many things that makes Bend incredibly special. It seemed like everyone in town had a little bit of a buzz from being out in the sun, the snow, and on the trails.

Sat - The best day of skiing I can remember in a long time. Deep, light, powdery snow and blue sky. The whole mountain was open and it was just a great day of skiing. Ran into all sorts of friends and got a ton of good skiing in.

Sun - Sunny lazy morning filled with coffee, followed by a beautiful mountain bike ride with friends in short sleeves and shorts. Grilling on the porch with cold beers.

Just another spring weekend in Bend. Loving the daylight!

Echo Red to Red XC Mountain Bike Race

2010-03-10T12:35:00.000-08:00

Who drives 8 hours for a two hour mountain bike race? Well, when it's early March and you're itching to do some racing, it's not a tough decision, especially when the weather is sunny and warm.

Fri night saw Serena and I loading up the car and getting on the road for a while so that we weren't leaving at 5 in the morning. We got to hwy 84 around midnight and got some shut eye in a state park just across the river from Biggs.

Some coffee and food and we were on the road in the morning, arriving in Echo around 9. It was a beautiful morning and there was a great crowd of folks out for a mountain bike race in some unseasonably warm weather. Echo is not surrounded by mountains or trees, but just endless rolling farmland, not what you would think of for mountain biking, but the race, the course, the crowds of racers...couldn't have been better.

A mass start saw the cat1/pro/single speed combined fields roll out. A little chaos on the dirt road leading into the single track caught me off gaurd and with a gap between me and a good group of folks we came screaming down the hill towards the single track. I got around a few riders at the last second, but immediately found myself slowing my pace in the twisting and turning that would continue for another 20 something miles. I made my way around folks where I could and extended a lot of effort in doing so, but would quickly recover and chase down the next group. I was getting into a good rhythm when an old teammate in front of me had a quick crash, without anyroom to avoid it we got tangled up and crashed, meanwhile some of the 10 riders we had worked to pass went screaming by. Back on the chase. Again I was picking people off one by one, feeling good that I was still moving up and feeling like I had some good legs. Some short fast climbs led into a rocky side-hill descent that was full of sharp rocks. Coming around the next corner I felt my rear wheel slip out and make the tell tale noise of a tire running way too low and rolling off. I pulled off the course and inspected the tire. I couldn't find any leaks or sealent coming out. I figured maybe it just burped some air out. I only had two c02 cartridges to work with so I decided to give the first one a shot and see if the tire didn't just seal up...no such luck, sealant came squirting out of a decent size gash right on top of the tire. I dug through my pockets again and fished out a tube and a gel wrapper to get the tire back going. My last co2 cartridge did the trick and I was rolling again after what seemed like the entire cat 1/pro/ singlespeed field had passed me. I knew my race was over at this point, but I wasn't about to soft pedal so I kept chasing and making my way up. I never made it even close to where I was when I flatted, but it was an amazingly fun course and a great day of racing around in the sun. Miles and miles of sunny snaking singletrack up and down over the prarie...Not a bad way to spend a saturday. A long finish section of dirt road and pavement rolled back into the tiny town of Echo and a welcome burrito.

Great races by the crew of sunnyside folks that were out there. A great win for Don. A great win for Serena. A bunch of second places and just a lot of happy racers!

It was great see so many people out and racing. It seemed like one of the bigger mountain bike races and its only March. I think between the weather and having a winter off, most folks were pretty anxious to get out. It's nice having some early races where conditions are excellent, makes me think we should have some more early races in around eastern oregon...Horse Ridge?

Screwed up and lost my photos, but I can assure you Serena sleeps with her bike, I had it documented.

Flat Tire!

2010-03-08T21:17:00.000-08:00

Damn, a flat tire. That was my race, but certainly not the end of my day. What an awesome day ripping around the pastures and vineyards of Echo. Race report and photos coming soon.

Thanks for the words

2010-03-04T21:01:00.001-08:00

From Belgium Knee Warmers

When the sh*t goes down and the screws are turned, we all wage the war against the ingress of doubt. Like cold, salty ocean water, doubt will find its way inside a breach and then… it’s only a matter of time before the ship goes down.
Following an effort so hard that it leaves the eyes bloodshot and your feet fried, a rider tries to sort out the race’s details. How can one’s fitness vary so greatly on back-to-back days? All things being equal, one can point to doubt.

At times, denying doubt is harder than any of the physical efforts doled out. When the group is strung out into a razor sharp point and riders begin popping, doubt becomes tough to ignore. At that moment, the difference between a good day and a bad day is determined by the mind’s willingness to ignore the persistant whisper of that f*#ker doubt."

Bend in Bike Magazine

2010-03-03T21:24:00.000-08:00

We already knew that mountain biking in Bend was amazing, it's possible to mountain bike mostly year round. Just head east in the winter to Cline Butte, Smith Rock or Horse Ridge and all of sudden you've got a whole new set of options. In the spring and fall most everything is great. Once summer hits, head up into the woods to avoid the dust. Well, Bend got some props for being a great spot to bike. Not that we didn't know that, but it's great to see Bend getting it's dues. Check out the March issue of Bike magazine. When people ask me about how I like Bend, one of things that I always seem to bring up is how easy it is to get out and be on the trails. I can pretty much ride dirt from my house to the trails and not ever need to load up a car and drive to a trail head. It's not lost on me how fortunate I am for this. It's a privilege to be able to live in a place where this opportunity is available. It's one of the things that makes Bend a special place to live.

Here's the link to the article (pdf file)

Masters Road Nationals to Bend 2011-2012

2010-02-25T19:25:00.000-08:00

Yet another reason why Doug Laplaca and the amazing folks at visitbend are kicking some serious ass. USA cycling clearly realizes that Bend is a place dedicated to bikes and bike racing as well as bringing serious events to Bend. With the recent success of Cyclocross Nationals and Elite/Junior Road Nationals, and all the greatness of the Cascade Classic it's not a suprise that Bend pulled in another great race. Be sure to stay tuned for all the info. I am sure BendCyclingEvents will have it covered. Can't wait.

Here's the press release:

2011 and 2012 Masters Road Nationals to Bend, Oregon

USA Cycling has awarded the 2011 and 2012 Masters Road National Championships to Bend, Ore. Following the city’s successful hosting of the Elite/U23/Juniors Road and the Cyclo-cross National Championships, the cycling hotbed is now poised to host another round of the nation’s best. Held in Louisville, Kentucky 2008 through 2010, the USA Cycling Masters Road National Championships are scheduled to go off in Bend, Aug. 30 – Sept. 4, 2011 and August 27 – Sept. 2, 2012.

The two-year agreement between USA Cycling, the sport’s national governing body, and Visit Bend is expected to bring more than 800 competitors and 2,500 visitors to the Pacific Northwestern city for seven days of racing leading up to the Labor Day Weekend. Bend expects to continue to enjoy a significant economic impact in conjunction with the cycling championships. According to a study by Oregon State University, the two USA Cycling National Championship events hosted by the city in 2009 brought Bend $2.5 million dollars in direct tourist spending.

“The National Championships we hosted here in 2009 left no doubt in USA Cycling’s mind that Bend’s enthusiasm for and appreciation of competitive cycling makes it unlike any other destination in the country,” said Doug LaPlaca, president and CEO of Visit Bend. “It is our goal to turn that enthusiasm into a long-term partnership that provides USA Cycling with consistently world-class championships, while providing Bend with a substantial amount of visitation tourism spending during traditionally slow times of the year.”

In 2009, Bend hosted the USA Cycling Elite, Junior and U23 Road National Championships, as well as the USA Cycling Cyclo-cross National Championships. Both events will return to Bend in 2010.

“In hosting the 2009 USA Cycling National Championships Bend showcased an entire community who passionately embraces the sport of cycling and its various disciplines as a lifestyle,” said Steve Johnson, CEO of USA Cycling. “That type of support is critical to growing the sport across the country and is a large reason why Bend was awarded the Masters Road National Championships for 2011 and 2012.”

About Visit Bend
Visit Bend is a non-membership, non-profit economic development organization dedicated to promoting tourism on behalf of the City of Bend. For more information or to order a complimentary Official Visitor’s Guide to Bend, contact Visit Bend at 1-800-949-6086 or visit www.visitbend.com.

About USA Cycling
Recognized by the United States Olympic Committee and the Union Cycliste Internationale, USA Cycling is the official governing body for all disciplines of competitive cycling in the United States, including road, track, mountain bike, BMX and cyclo-cross. As a membership-based organization, USA Cycling comprises 66,500+ licensees; 2,200 clubs and teams; and 34 local associations. The national governing body sanctions 2,650 competitive and non-competitive events throughout the U.S. each year and is responsible for the identification, development, and support of American cyclists. To learn more about USA Cycling, visit www.usacycling.org.

Geting back after it.

2010-02-22T21:42:00.000-08:00

This time of year is tough, the urge to get outside on the bike is tough to balance with the reality of the conditions outside. There have been a couple mt bike rides that involved pushing the bike through snow, frozen toes, icy ruts, and less than ideal conditions. There have been the road rides that no amount of layers or embrocation can help. So what does one do when reality takes over. This year found me helping coach the nordic ski team at school, this meant twice weekly workouts in the weight room, plyometrics, and weekends at the races. I've thrown in plenty of tele skiing and some skating. I've been on the bike plenty too, but it's been a balance. Isn't that what it's all about, finding the balance? I love skiing, it's always been a passion. Last year as this time of year rolled around I began feeling guilty for not being on the bike as much and I skipped some great weekends of skiing to drive over the mountains and race my road bike in the rain. This year I told myself that it's going to be different. I can be on the bike and ski.

What I have already found is that I am that much stronger than I would be if I had focused solely on the bike. I did a road race a couple weeks ago that I wasn't sure how prepared I was for. It wasn't the longest, toughest, or fastest race, but it was a good test for me. A crash in front of me at the finish didn't help my position for the final sprint, but I was happy with how I felt and how I rode...and it was great to be out.

The weather the last couple days has been stellar. It's that time of year in Bend where everything seems possible. On Sunday we skied for a few hours in the morning went home for lunch, then it was off to horse ridge for a couple hours of mountain biking that couldn't have been better. I know Don was out there, I saw his car, and although I never ran into him, I smiled knowing that we shared an amazing afternoon out in the sun.

It looks like it's going to rain and snow the rest of the week. The skiing this weekend looks to be great!

On heavy rotation:
Local Natives - world news.mp3
Vampire Weekend - run.mp3
Monsters of Folk - say please.mp3

A post about music

2010-01-28T20:50:00.000-08:00

This is just to say that I have been spending some time on the internets and digging through a lot of music lately, blog lists, my own collection. I don't think I have discovered anything new that isn't already being written or blogged about, you could find a lot of "best of" lists from the last year with these same bands/songs, but I wanted to drop a few links of what's really been in heavy rotation and mostly the newer stuff. I have been sorting and listening more lately, going back through the year a bit, cleaning out, a bit of adding to, but here is what has been impressing me as of late. There are links to a few of my more recent favorite songs and you can snag the mp3s, but check out the bands, lots of good stuff.

-Grizzly Bear (two weeks mp3)
-Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros (Home mp3) definitely gonna make this one part of the wedding.
-The XX - (VCR mp3)
-Andrew Bird - (Fitz and Dizzy Spells mp3) Can whistle like nobody's business. Amazing live, have a listen.
-Animal Collective- (My Girls mp3) I know, predictable, but I am hooked on this album lately.
-Phoenix - (Listzomania mp3) These guys from France have gotten huge, but check out some of their older stuff too. Phoenix- If I ever feel Better (mp3 from back in 2000)
Bat For Lashes - (Daniel mp3)
Fever Ray - (Triangle Walks mp3) Electronic, but not what you'd expect.
The Antlers - (Bear mp3)
Yeah Yeah Yeahs - (Dull Life mp3) Try any of this while doing a hard workout. GOOD.
Hathbanger - Party and Bullshit (In the USA) (Notorious B.I.G, Miley Cyrus).mp3 -Ruth's a big fan of this little mix, I know I know, Miley Cyrus?...It's catchy. Try it on the trainer today.

Okay, that's all I've got the energy to link to. Lots more good stuff. I'll keep sharin'

Disclaimer:Any mp3's posted here are just for sampling. These samples are meant to benefit the bands. If you are the owner of a song I posted and want it taken down, please shoot me and email and I will delete it right away!

Skate Skiing With Friends

2010-01-04T20:31:00.000-08:00

A beautiful afternoon. Thanks Serena and Ben.

Post Natz Laziness and Winter

2009-12-30T18:27:00.000-08:00

As planned I have spent the better part of the last couple weeks off the bike. It was good to take a break after nationals, do some nordic skiing, catch up. The last week we have been in New England doing a whole lot of nothing, visiting family, and eating lots. It was a good trip, but it great to be back. Had an amazing day of skiing today with a foot of fresh and lots more in the trees on NWX. The forecast for the next couple days looks promising.

Gonna hit the skiing hard for the next few days. Once school starts back up, I'll get on the trainer and do some intervals a few days a week, skate ski, and do some training with the nordic team at school.

It's Winter. Solid.

Lucky

2009-12-19T09:27:00.000-08:00

Just one of the reasons I feel really lucky to race with the Sunnyside team.

Check out "The World According to Don". Here is a guy who started the season with a tough injruy. Instead of just sitting on the sidelines cheering, he got on his traininer, did what he could, and came out to nationals and raced his heart out. I feel honored to be part of such and amazing group of racers. Don is one of them!

2009-12-18T17:04:00.000-08:00

CYCLE CROSS BEND OREGON 2009(sat. last race mens) from FARfromEARTH Films on Vimeo.

Cyclocross Nationals Course Update

2009-12-08T15:50:00.000-08:00

Here are some photos of the nationals course from David Baker, these are from today 12-8-09.

The latest forecast is calling for a "wintry mix"...mmmm wintry mix...starting on Friday night. Temps in the 30's during the day and 20's at night. A lot warmer than our current negative and single digit temps. Doesn't look like much snow will disappear.

USGP of Cyclocross, Sometimes you got it...

2009-12-07T22:13:00.000-08:00

...and sometimes, well.

The gun goes off, you are firing on cylinders, the wind whips at you, it doesn't matter, your legs turn over faster still. Turns come sweeping by, momentum carries you just to the edge of control, don't touch the brakes, ruts grab at your tires. Stand up, sprint, a rise in the course does nothing more than sear your lungs, the speed continues. In and out of turns, swinging past trees, course tape rattles alongside you, crowd noise grows, familiar voices just a blur, sounds, barriers, legs spin faster, the wind is picking up, pushing back. Look around, hold your position, keep the speed up, don't put your foot down, stand up, stay light. There is nothing but you and the bike, connected, struggling together. Turns link together, the bike cooperates, everything is right, you pour it on, this is it, you're in it...A noise, the crank slams down, nothing, a rattle of chain against frame, chaos and realizations...

Sunday it was all coming together, the frustration of Sat was the last thing on my mind as I went weightless with the slight rise and fall of the course, doubts faded away, a gritted smile and short breath, it ended so fast, a sinking feeling, running.

Thus far, it's been a season pretty free of mechanical issues. This weekend, not so much. Sat ended in a less than spectacular fashion with the realization that the bike was just not working, I limped into the pit already feeling spent from the effort of turning over the cranks and dragging the chain through a derailleur that was seized up. It didn't help to jump on a pit bike that only marginally works and is not so race worthy. Motivation slowly faded, leaders came whipping past, the race was done before it got going.

I was back for revenge Sunday. The cold and wind were in full effect, the smell of embrocation, hissing of heaters, uncertain shaking of tents in the wind. I took my time getting ready, relaxed, carefully dressed in layers, stayed warm, applied embro taking my time, covering legs, arms, even toes which were slowly going numb. The trainer whirred away, legs turned over, and warmth crept in. A damn beautiful starting position and the best start of the season. The thing about cyclocross that makes it so damn special is that sometimes it's just a matter of things falling into place. This weekend, they didn't exactly, but I know they will, I will keep chasing, keep waiting, I am patient, I am ready.

Photo: OregonVelo

Looking like Snow for Cyclocross Nationals

2009-12-07T07:00:00.000-08:00

This morning in Bend it was 4 degrees. There is nearly of foot of snow in town and it is expected to remain cold for the rest of the week with some warming by Thursday. I'll keep things up to date and try to post some photos. Here is a good spot for weather checks

It looks like the past weekend at the USGPS was a good chance to get used to racing in the cold. I think all the embrocation I had on is finally wearing off.

It was a weekend of mechanical issues for me, with serious problems both days. Hopefully I have all the problems figured out. Full race reports and photos coming soon.

Cyclocross Nationals Art

2009-12-06T21:01:00.000-08:00

These guys do absolutely amazing work and it will be cool to see it on display.

So much happening in Bend. Be sure to check out Bendcyclingevents for lots of details.

Snow and secret training for cyclocross nationals

2009-11-30T21:39:00.000-08:00

There's been a lot of racing around in the snow going on in Bend lately. From the Crossaflixion races to some impromptu training races there's been good prep should the national cyclocross championships be snowy.

It's been a little down time in the racing schedule which has been nice. It's felt a whole lot more like winter and the end of the season, but with USGP races this weekend, and cyclocross nationals just a short two weeks away, it's anything but the end.

Training has gotten harder and harder, daylight shorter, skiing looming around the corner. How do you find the motivation? The upcoming races are some of the biggest of the season and I expect them to be ridiculously fast, thats certainly been motivating.

Thanksgiving was a welcome break from double race weekends and traveling over to the valley. We were able to get in some skiing and rest and still find time to train. The latter part of the week found me up in Canada doing intervals off the coast of BC in the southern gulf islands. My secret training grounds for the week, it was a beautiful, relaxing, and very hilly place to get some training in.

It's the final push. Riding in the garage at night after long days of work, keeping healthy, staying on top of work, keeping equipment running (big props to Sunnyside Sports), it's all coming together. Best of luck to all of you traveling and getting ready around the country. We've got it comparatively easy here in Bend, but we'll be getting it ready for you. If your season is done, well, congrats, enjoy it!

Cyclocross Nationals Course Preview

2009-11-23T12:35:00.001-08:00

Thanks to Bendcyclingevents.com for the video. Check it.

Double Cyclocross Weekend. Crossaflixion Cup, Barton Park

2009-11-16T22:00:00.000-08:00

(all photos pdxcross.com)
The early morning sun glittered and reflected off fresh snow that still lay on the side of the road, bright blue and blinding white, not what one thinks of as cyclocross weather.

A lazy sat morning gave way to a hurried ride over to Seventh Mountain for round one of the Crossaflixion Cup. I arrived early and bundled up. I took over the microphone duties for the rest of the morning, with a little time to sneak in a ride on a really tough but fun course. The morning started out with a bit of snow, some ice, and a little mud. However, by mid day riders were rolling through looking like they had crashed and were more and more covered with mud.

It had warmed up a lot and thawed out significantly by the time the A's started. The field had spread apart by the time we reached the bottom of a long descent. A double track climb led up to one of the toughest run ups I have done...it was a bit absurd, nearly impossible to really run and finished on a slight hill that forced you to remount on loose uphill gravel while you were completely exhausted.

Sunnyside had some great results with multiple wins and lots of podiums. Wade put on a monster chase after flatting and definitely got my vote for gutsy ride of the day. Veronica took a win, Chad took a win, Joanne took a win. Sunnyside was a force to be reckoned with!

Despite being tough, it was a fun course and it was a good tune up for cyclocross nationals which could dish out some very similar conditions, minus the giant run-up. If you're in Bend on the 28th, be sure to check out the second race of the Crossaflixion Cup. Info Here.

Barton Park, it's a love hate relationship for many people. The hate usually involves long run ups, sketchy muddy off camber and out of control descents...As for the love, while it's the same. I was psyched to see a good descent and a couple of good length run ups as well as some tricky mud and rocks in the woods. I raced hard, not as fast as I wanted, but it was what I had after a previous days race. There were riders I should have fought to stay with and others who I was glad I caught, but it was a tough, hard fought race that was a great end to the crusade series.

I will take a weekend or two off from the racing and traveling, but keep on the training and intervals. We have been doing double race weekend for the last month and have barely been home long enough to get anything done. It's feeling more like ski season, but I am gonna make sure to set aside time and motivation to train hard for the next couple weeks leading up to the USGP races and cyclocross nationals.

Photos from Sat at PDXCROSS
Photos from Sun at PDXCROSS

This is what Cycloross is all about!

2009-11-14T19:52:00.001-08:00

Ruth after a muddy one, she says she's smiling because the race is over. I think she is smiling because she is in onto the secret that is cyclocross. This was Ruth's 4th race ever and it was a tough one. Nice job Ruth. Thanks to Serena for sharing and thanks to Mark for the photo.

Oregon Cyclocross is where it's at

2009-11-08T21:47:00.000-08:00

Balanced, one foot in the pedal, rain blowing, shivering, anxious, waiting. The first puddle comes as a shock to the system, splashing, spraying, feet soaked through. Slipping out of control as vision is blurred by mud, rain, and the spray of tires. Chase harder, head down, the faster you go, the sooner you'll warm up. Jump off the bike, jump back on...go hard. Wind comes head on, tires fight for traction, slippery corners, gravel, beach sand, rain, puddles, it's cold. The puddles get slower and deeper, the mud more sticky. Riders crash, feet go numb, spectators shiver.

Cyclocross in Oregon, it doesn't get much better in my mind. To me, this is what cyclocross should be. When the conditions turn to cold, rain, and mud it's a battle of wills. Not only do technical skills, and fitness come into play, but shear will power becomes equally important. Who can push through the suffering, who can put their head down into the wind and cold and push the pedals over just a little harder. It be can hard to continue as the cold creeps in. Riders stop or drop out because they can't go on. Equipment is pushed to the limit.

Both races this weekend dished out tests of will. It was a battle, but we do it because we love to battle, to fight the voice in our heads, to push through when it gets the toughest, to shut down the pain.

I have always thought that one of my strengths was the mental aspect of cyclocross, my ability to push through pain. I can only hope that cyclocross nationals in Bend will dish out the kind of conditions that will make it tough...rain, snow, mud - bring it....you can blame me.There was plenty of pain this weekend, this is not to say that it wasn't a great weekend of cross, just that it was a tough weekend of cross.

Saturday's state championship race was a tough one indeed. I went backwards off the start trying to find the warmth, trying to settle into a pace. It was slow going and I was not happy with my start. I put my head down though and found a rhythm, warmed up, and moved forward. In the end I know I went as hard as I could, I would have liked to finish better, but I was glad for the effort and a fun race in the mud.

Sunday was a blast. Riding around the course with teammates it was clear the course would present all the challenges possible. Lots of technical off camber sections that were a gamble, long fast sections out in the wind, run ups, slogs through puddles, wheel sucking mud, miserable weather, it was all there. I had a good start and pushed across the long section of road. I made it through the first couple laps and avoided a lot of trouble spots and crashes. I caught up to some fast riders I hadn't been with yet and stuck to their wheels...chasing...chasing....chasing. I took advantage of others mistakes and crashes, each time pushing a little harder to open up gaps, I rode smart, I took chances and crashed, but I recovered fast. I told myself to go harder. I played the mental games, and in the end it worked out well. I had a great race and was really happy with how it went.

Shivering cold we got things packed up and into a warm car for the long drive home after another long weekend on the cross bike.

It needs to be mentioned that my teammates are the best. YOU GUYS AND GIRLS ARE THE AIR IN MY TIRES. Everyone was cheering, helping, encouraging, sharing tips, getting warmed up together...amazing. Plus - Team Sunnyside absolutely killed it. Great races by the whole team in some seriously tough conditions. Multiple podium appearances on Sat...including two state champions. Sunday the team was equally impressive. It absolutely poured on the women making for some of the toughest conditions on the day. It was awesome to see the women out there battling the elements and grinding it out.

Ruth made her 5th appearance and showed that she can handle some of the trickiest and toughest conditions and still hand an ass whopping to the beginner women. NICE!

I'll throw more photos and links up as time allows. That's all for now.

Velonews Saturday Coverage
Velonews Sunday Coverage
Serena's Report

Cyclocross Nationals Information and Program

2009-11-05T08:27:00.000-08:00

The offical guide is out, including a story of team Sunnyside sports own Don Leet. If you are in Bend for cyclocross nationals, stop by Sunnyside Sports (the best bike shop in Oregon by far) and visit with Don, he is a wealth of knowledge and will be happy to help you with anything.

Get it here And at VisitBend

CX magazine has an article up on traveling to cyclocross nationals in Bend...Some good pts about getting bikes here. Check it out. Definitely give sunnyside sports a call for all your nationals needs.

I'll get a post up on restaurants and good local food options for any out of town folks that might read this.

And, hey just drop a comment if you have a question.

House of Pain

2009-11-04T21:09:00.000-08:00

Not the Irish rappers, but the Miller garage.

I am lucky enough to have some neighbors who are also teammates. It is also lucky that these neighbors have a warm, bright, comfortable garage with lots of trainers. I am especially lucky that I have teammates that are willing to cram into said neighbors garage to suffer and sweat thorough some tough intervals together. Intervals on a trainer aren't really fun to me. One has to be feeling pretty motivated to sit on their bike in a garage, ride, and push themselves continually. I think it's one of the weirder things we cyclists do..."riding to nowhere" Ruth calls it. I realized this evening while suffering, gasping for breath, that this training is really a team effort. It's getting dark at 5:00 and as much as I want to be riding on the road and outside when it's beautiful and warm out; work, chores, and many different things keep that from happening. Yet, the riding and training have to continue. With another month of crusade races, USGPs, and cyclocross nationals all still ahead, there is still work to be done. It's a lot easier to get on the trainer and push when you are there with teammates doing the same; mutual suffering. So thanks teammates, I would have a harder time motivating to get on that trainer without you.

Cross in Astoria, feeling good for Cyclocross Nationals

2009-11-02T20:19:00.000-08:00

(photos pdxcross)

Such a fun weekend of racing and hanging out with teammates. It all seems a haze right now, and I won't detail it all out, but here's the quick breakdown. We camped out in Eugene Fri night and rolled into Astoria around noon on Sat. Got on the course and checked it out, lots of slick mud and tricky corners mixed with a little climbing and some bumpy sections...A tough course. I was feeling rested however and psyched to be in Astoria for the weekend. I got the worst starting position possible, but told myself just to let it all out going down the hill and hammer up the climb to see how that positioned me. It worked out well and halfway through the first lap I had moved to the middle of the pack and was feeling strong. I picked folks off here and there mostly on the technical stuff and on the bumpy climbs. I tried to pick it up a bit as the laps wound down and had just got around a few folks as I was coming in for what I thought would be my last lap. Turns out Wicks was not too far behind me and I was done. I was fine with that, it had felt like a long race, I had put out a lot of effort in the last lap, and I was in a good position at the time. Turns out I was in just the right positon and finished in 18th...enough for one point which means call-ups. No more luck of the draw on the start posion. I was tired, happy, and muddy. Drove a short bit to Seaside where the team had a house rented. Had a great dinner with teammates, hung out, watched RAD... got psyched on some bike dancing and helltrack. A beautiful morning at the beach with lots of coffee, cleaning bikes, and getting ready. Rolled over early to do some heckling and check out the costumes. The fog burned off and it was another beautiful afternoon for a bike race. Still lots of mud and a few course changes to make things interesting. The course still had some technical twists and turns and plenty of mud, but added a bit more climbing and a short bit of pavement. I was feeling tired and sluggish, but told myself I would go all out and just enjoy what came of it. Most folks were in costume and the crowd was total chaos, it was amazing. A good start position helped me get into a good spot to start, but I was feeling tired and hanging on for the first couple laps. I settled into a pace towards the middle of the race and started catching folks on some of the climbs. I was riding with a group of three or four riders who were going at a good pace and kept me chasing. I was worried that with two to go it would actually turn into the last lap and so put out a huge effort on the climb and dropped the group I was with, I managed to ride smooth through the tricky stuff and up the pavement climb towards the finish, but I must have pushed it hard enough that Wicks wasn't close and I ended up out on one last lap. I was feeling pretty destroyed, but was determined not to let the group behind me catch up, so again I put my head down and suffered through knowing that I needed to hold on. I was riding alone, but started to see riders ahead as I finished...pulled in a 19th place and was just really happy with the effort I was able to do. I am feeling a ton stronger than the first few races and happy with finishing in the top 20.

It was a great weekend with lots of teammates and everyone doing really well. Ruth had a top 10 finish on Sun coming in 8th with the star trek skirt costume on a tricky course...Seriously awesome.

It's only Mon night, but I am already plotting and scheming for next weekend. The whole time change thing is gonna force me onto the trainer a whole lot more, but so it goes. I'll try and get some short workouts in outside.

Check out Serena's recap, Don's report and an awesome photo of our costumes, and check out all the great photos at PDXcross.

A Weekend of Cyclocross in Oregon

2009-10-26T19:48:00.000-07:00

A weekend of great racing and finally some mud...

Cyclocross season comes fast and it's always a roller coaster. Good races, bad races, mechanicals, sickness, it's all part of the game, but this weekend was a good one.

Sat saw us making the trip over the pass with a stop in Salem for battlecreek cross. An amazing course set on an abandoned golf course with lots of good twists and turns and sand traps thrown in for good measure. I lined up with a small group of A's who were there to race around on a beautiful, sunny, warm, fall afternoon. The course is flat as can be, and was really fast due to the mostly dry conditions. A quick start into a slippery right turn set the pace. The backside of the course was windy, and some gaps opened up from the front. I spent most of the race chasing and trying to close down gaps, I spent a couple laps working with a guy on my wheel only to bobble on some roots and have him gap me. A fun race for sure. It was tough with all the flat as there was very few places to get any rest or slow down. The teammies were out in force. Damain took out his aggression and raced to a solid 4th place. Wade and Chad tag teamed their race and took the two top spots. Serena and Renee put the hurt on the A women with Serena taking the win and Renee in 4th. I didn't feel like I had the best race, but I was really enjoying myself and was glad to get the legs going. Such a nice day to be racing around in the sun. Put on the recovery socks and made the quick trip into Portland for the evening.

Sunday morning was lazy, espresso and a big breakfast with friends. Rain was creeping in and I was getting anxious. We got out to the course in time to watch some racing and heckle some folks on the tricky sections. My legs were feeling tired and heavy, but I rode around checking out the course and enjoying the scene. Lots of people crashing, it was slick and there were some tricky corners. Watched the women start and then jumped on the trainer. Got to the start line with a few minutes to spare and got lined up. I had a good spot and snuck in behind some folks that I knew would be outta there fast. It worked great and I had my best start so far. I got into the muddy slog section in a good spot and powered through gaining a few spots and leaving all bottlenecks behind. I found myself riding with some guys that I hadn't been up with yet and was sitting in a good position. I was feeling strong so I just hung on, tried to ride smooth and stay right side up. D was just in front of me when I saw him pull into the pits...his luck is just not right...He was hounding me the rest of the race. I found my way around a few crashes, pushed it on the hard pack, rode smart through the slippery stuff and generally felt strong. It was the first race since September that I have felt 100% and like I could stand up and sprint in the middle of the race. The course suited me well and was a good mix of mud, technical sections, and power sections. I had a blast and was real happy with my result. (photo: pdxcross.com)

The rest of the team did great. Ruth had an incredible race and placed in the top 20, she wasn't so sure of the mud when we got there, but I assured her that it was the best part of cyclocross...she was definitely convinced by the end of her race. She had a blast and did a great job with the tricky conditions. I caught the tail end of Chad and Wade's race, they both looked strong. I didn't get to see the women race, but I know that Renee and Gina tore it up. Mike looked muddy and strong pulling off a top 10 in the masters A's. Veronica and Serena were both looking strong and Serena pulled off another seriously impressive 3rd, with more press for sunnyside on the velonews site...Don is right on.

A great weekend of cross racing and I am feeling much stronger than previous races, let's hope it keeps up and improves.

Got 3 very dirty bikes to clean and get set up for another weekend of cross racin Halloween style.

Cyclocross Nationals in Bend Oregon!

2009-10-22T17:09:00.000-07:00

The buzz keeps spreading about cyclocross nationals in Bend this winter- folks asking at work, friends who have heard about it, chatter online, people coming to visit. It will be here before we know it. Lots of folks asking what the weather is going to be like... I have only spent one winter in Bend, but my guess is that it could be just about anything. It might be in the 40's, it might be 20 degrees. Maybe it'll be sunny and warm, it might just be freezing and snowing. There might be mud, could be some dust, one might see frozen ruts...I do know, that no matter what the weather, it's going to be a ton of folks out racing, it will be an awesome spectacle to watch, there will be beer, cowbells, and craziness! After the first couple days of registration there were already more riders registered than raced in last years nationals. It's exciting to know that the national cyclocross scene will invade Bend for a few days. Team Sunnyside will most definitely be out there representing.

It's only 7 weeks away now. There's racing pretty much every weekend from here till then. I got a late start on the training this season, here's to hoping that bodes well for late season fitness and cyclocross nationals. You can bet it will be crazy fast no matter what mother nature give us.

Here's the Schedule

Cyclocross Crusade Numero 3

2009-10-21T19:53:00.000-07:00

Cyclocross is HARD. It's part of the reason I love it. Last Sunday was HARD. I didn't love it while I was racing...per usual my perspective changed when it was over, things were better. Races don't always go like this for me, most of the time even when I am suffering, somewhere inside I realize that I am having a blast. Sun I was mostly suffering. I can't figure out whats going on with me, I felt tired, sore, heavy. I am not making excuses, I had a decent race, but I didn't feel all there. It was mostly the first two or three laps. The second or third time up the hill I couldn't believe how beat I was...a lap later I looked at the lap board in my oxygen deprived haze did some figuring it would say one or two to go...Not so much...When I was hurting so bad I looked at the lap board and it said 6 to go...well, believe it or not, things got better after that. I settled into a pace, caught some folks, pushed it a bit more on the hills, and enjoyed myself a little more. 9 gruelling laps, that was a tough race mentally and physically. I apologize to anyone I tried to speak to after the race...I wasn't all there.

Sunnyside was out and killing it...Renee had an amazing race and took 1st. Serena put up a serious battle and came away with 3rd in a stacked field of tough women. (read about her race on velonews). Wade with a big 4th, Chad did some mean beer drinking (flatted out early). Veronica was out giving it, Mike raced hard, Gina looked super strong. D with not the best luck, starting on the back, getting run over, then flatting...things can only get better D. Ruth raced again and did way better than she will admit to...That's a tough course for anyone. Nice work Ruth!
Don, we miss you out there! It's tough not hearing Don cheering from somewhere on the course.

Jumped back on the horse early this week and training has been tough. I am not sure if I am still battling part of this cold, respiratory wise I don't feel 100% and maybe it's making me tired...I hope so, because I have felt pretty heavy and slow all week so far. Doing my best to get sleep, eat healthy, and train smart.

Amazing pictures as usual at pdxcross.com. Check em.

Battlecreek cross and Washington County Cyclocross Crusade #4 on tap for the weekend.
Thanks Serena for reminding us... 8 weeks till cyclocross nationals!

Cyclocross Crusade #2 RAINER

2009-10-12T21:12:00.000-07:00

Rainer is always one of my favorite courses. I love all the up and down, the fast grass corners, off camber, singletrack in the woods...it's just a great course. I only wish I was feeling better going into it this past weekend.

I was sick all week after last weekend, stayed home from school, didn't ride at all, tried to recover. I felt decent enough to race, but just didn't have any energy. Still really glad I raced and I had a great time, just didn't produce any results. That's okay.

The plan is to get some intervals in this week, get the power back, go into the weekend feeling fast. New venue this weekend, and a race sat in Eugene? It was sleet and freezing rain this morning and looks to be the same for the rest of the week. Not the best for getting some rides in, but if it's trainer weather, well then so be it.

Got all registered for cyclocross nationals in Bend (Both the 30-34 race and the Elite race). The registration was a big pain in the ass, but it's all set and we'll so how that puts me on the line. Can't wait for cyclocross in Bend in December.

Alpenrose Cyclocross Crusade #1

2009-10-07T20:39:00.000-07:00

I really love the cross crusade...there were something like 1400 people out racing on a beautiful Sunday. The course was great, the crowd was great, a damn great time. Ruth came out for her first cross race and kicked some serious ass. She most definitely does not give herself enough credit...she rode through traffic and looked like she belonged a couple categories up. She was passing folks every time I saw her and when she was done, she told me she could have done more. Guess she'll go even faster next time.

I had a good race minus the dropped chain along the backside of the velodrome. I don't feel like writing all the details out, but I chased and chased and chased some more...I was moving up the entire race. Anderson and Tommy caught up with me on the last lap and I suffered in right behind them. I feel like I should have been further up and know I can improve the results. Regardless, I had a great time.

I went into this race starting to get a cold. I came out with the full on cold. Fever, coughing, sore throat. Monday and Tues I was on my death bed and I have been feeling like hell till today. I missed one day of work and I've gotten behind on most everything...school work, house work, training. Oh well. Was feeling decent enough this afternoon to ride around the park with Don, Serena, and our jr teammate Mitchell practicing barriers.

Rainer this weekend is gonna be a suffer-fest.

The forecast

2009-09-29T20:34:00.000-07:00

Did some tough intervals up skyline. It is really cold in Bend. I froze my ass off.

Look at the forecast for Bachelor. Snow level is around 4000 ft. It snowed at school today.

Cyclocross...Chasing the Dream

2009-09-28T18:18:00.000-07:00

I am spinning around Mount Washington drive, eyes watering, whipping downhill, second guessing my choice to go sans knee warmers or embrocation. It's 10am on a Sunday morning in Sept and it feels like late Oct. I sit up to breathe some heat into my hands. I push it up the little rise and some warmth comes creeping into my core. I flash through patches of sun and shade the latter with a burst of warmth. Soon I am heading up Skyliners thinking about the workout ahead of me. It was a lazy sun morning. I slept in, no alarm, drank copious amounts of coffee, sat reading the news, calm...not anymore.

Cyclocross season is in full swing. The days at work fly by and it's a rush to get home and get a ride in. Riding home evenings, dusk coming too early, a dry dusty smile, cleaning bikes, replacing parts, obsessing over schedules, training, waiting. Head down I turn the pedals over and over. Tired aching legs and soreness find their way into my daily routine. I am getting ready. It's early I tell myself, one more interval, push it harder. It's all a big game to be sure, but it's one that drives me, keeps me motivated, keeps me dedicated and pushing myself to be better.

The national cyclocross championships will be in Bend this December and I want to know that I have done everything I can to be ready, to compete. I try to be realistic, I am not a pro, I don't have a coach, I am doing this for fun. Riding my bike is what I choose to do with the spare time I have. Maybe it would be different if all I had to do was ride my bike. I find a lot of inspiration in the riders who like me (and there are many) find time to balance the dedication it takes to compete with full time jobs and families. I was reminded of this reading a recent Velonews article about Jake Wells who had an amazing performance at Crossvegas. The article made some great points abouts the "working class" racer. I really am in awe of the riders that do it on their own and make it work. Molly, Tonkin, Shep...(and so many others). I can always look to these riders for inspiration and to push me to go after them. They aren't superhuman, but they are dedicated individuals that decided this is what they would do, chase the dream. Right on!

An excerpt from the article...

Professional bike racing in the U.S. is different from just about every European country. When they say "pro" there, it means everyone in the race makes money doing it.

Not so in the U.S. For some, becoming a professional means little more than cherry picking a few smaller races and paying USA Cycling $150 for an elite license. It was easy to see the differing ability levels at CrossVegas, as almost half of the field ended up lapped.
Being a working class racer, myself, I have a special place in my heart for those guys who can race well without the support the big guys have. I have a great appreciation for the Erik Tonkins, John Bakers and Molly Camerons of our sport.

Starcrossed, Rad Racing GP...UCI Cyclocross

2009-09-22T21:25:00.000-07:00

I've been a little slow on the report, but I have to post what a sweet weekend of racing it was. I said I wanted to chase some fast guys around, and chase I did. The conditions were epic and exactly what I would have wished for on Sat night. After pre-riding a few times I was psyched with how the soft and tacky the course was, the corners were fast and sticky and the off camber stuff held just fine. I watched Serena start with the elite women and then had to jump on the trainer. About half way through my warm up it started to drizzle, more of a mist really, but it started slow. By the time I jumped off the traininer and headed to staging it was really starting to rain. I was called almost last of the 70 or so riders that started and had an awful start position, but a good start. I felt strong and went hard for the first lap before I settled in. The rain had it's own plans and it started fully downpouring (Check out this photo of Molly and Wicks...and the rest of the album here). I was loving the rain, being under the lights and all the technical slippery stuff. The course was a great mix of flat fast sections and technical cornering on slippery grass or off camber traverses. I was with a good group that was going back and forth working and pushing each other. The new tyres were dialed in and feeling really good. I just kept hammering. I had just pulled to the front of the group I was with when we got pulled with two laps to go. Regardless of being pulled I was happy with where I finished and the effort. Mostly it was just a super fun race and a real solid workout.
Serena and I packed up the wet gear and headed to her dads place...we didn't really get in till around midnight, but there was no rush the next morning as the races weren't till the afternoon.
Sun was about as opposite weather from Sat as could be. Perfectly clear, blindingly blue, and warm. Warming up on the course I knew I was in for some torture. It was dry and fast. The "Knapp Time" run up definitely lived up to its reputation. That sucker is steep and long and no fun when you are running up it for the 8th time. The rest of the course was a mix of technical descents with lots of loose gravel and tricky corners, some climbing, and flat grass sections that were really windy. I had a decent start, but went backwards after some of the climbing and running. I found myself riding alone between a fast group in front of me that I couldn't bridge up to and a bunch of stragglers behind me. I realize I have a tough time when I am riding solo and there's nobody really pushing me and no wheel I am chasing. It was tough. I wasn't really sure if I was going all out and I just rode my race till Page and Huele came around me with 2 to go and again I was pulled, this time only about 100 yards from going out on the last lap...ah well. A good workout to say the least. It was a long drive home, a late night, and a tough Monday, but well worth it. I know going into the weekend I wasn't sure what I was getting myself into, but I think it was a good experience and definitely helped me see where I need to be for the rest of the season and ol' cyclocross nationals in Dec here in Bend.

Time to step it up!

Check out videos of both Star Crossed and Rad Racing Here

Complete Star Crossed results for all categories are HERE.

Complete Rad Racing GP results for all categories are HERE.

Let it Begin

2009-09-15T20:48:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been a while since I really sat down and tried to write here. It'll probably be a little while still before I put too much effort in. School has started back up and with a new school and a new schedule on top of training it's tough finding time for much else. It been a real balancing act to get all my work in at school, get home at a reasonable hour, get some training in, and get enough sleep to get up at 6am and do it again. Long days, but I'll take it while there's still daylight and it's gorgeous out.

I have been riding hard since we got back from Asia and despite only training for a bit less than a month I am feeling strong. I have some work to do still, but the racing has felt good. Tough, but good. I have been training harder, and I think smarter than years past, and it seems to be working so far. A huge thanks to my teammates who have been helping and motivating...some days the only reason I am doing intervals up skyline is because Wade or Chad or Renne is there with me. Thanks teammies! Serena has convinced me (it didn't take much) to head further north than Hood River for the weekend and so I ponyed up, got a international license, and registered for Starcrossed and the Rad Racing GP up in Seattle town. It's gonna be a wake up call (take a look at the confirmed riders list for Starcrossed...Impressive), but I figured it can't hurt to chase some fast riders, Starcrossed is one of my favorite races I have done, and I have always wanted to race at Steilacoom...I know it's gonna kick my ass, but I am all for it.

Worked on some short fast efforts tonight as well as some starts. Skills sesh tomorrow, Thirlla again thurs...It's gonna be a long tough weekend up north.

Gonna have a tecate and call it an evening.

On the training mix among other things...
for your listening pleasure
-Starfucker (medicine mp3)
-Miike Snow - (Burial - DJ Mehdi Remix mp3)
-The Very Best (warm heart of africa- with Ezra Koenig of vampire weekend mp3)

Back at it.

2009-09-10T21:56:00.001-07:00

Training hard, done a few races, trying to get back into the swing of things. Not gonna write about it all now, but it's starting. Jonathan Page was racing tonight in Bend, guess he wasn't used to the dusty corners...He crashed and Trebon took it with Sheppard right behind him. Gotta love a Thursday night cyclocross race in Bend.

The Latest From Thailand

2009-07-20T01:04:00.000-07:00

The last few days of work flew by, it was amazing to see all our hard work completed and an amazing community center standing before us. The students put the final coats of paint on and were even able to finish and amazing mural (a beautiful painting of two elephants and a globe). The building came out beautiful and the students are so proud of all their hard work. We celebrated with the community during dedication cermonies that included multiple dance performances from the community, Thai folk music performed by local community members and many speeches. Again the elder community members tied strings around our wrists to symbolize our connection to them and the community and the monks at the temple blessed us and wished us luck in our travels. The students gave thanks to their families before we all sat down to an amazing final meal (we all contributed spaghetti) with the community and enjoyed some dancing and games before the night was up.
It was with many tears and heartfelt goodbyes that we loaded into the vans this morning. the students from the school and all of our host families were there to send us off. We received cards from all the students thanking us for the time we spent at the school and for all our work. The families too had a hard time saying goodbye and didn't want to let us go. We loaded up the last of our things and headed to the city where we have enjoyed a great lunch and errands before we board the train tonight and head to Bangkok then Cambodia. We are amazed at how fast the time has gone and are excited to do some more travel even though we already miss our Thai families and community. We hope this finds you all well.

Big ol Thailand Update

2009-07-20T00:26:00.000-07:00

All,
so sorry for the delayed updates...we have been relaying our updates from the field over the phone to the office as we have not had access to computers for the last few weeks (Which have been amazing to say the least) and they have typed up a travel log of sorts.I pasted below all the current updates in order from the first to the most current (it's a bunch of reading) Sorry no pictures those will be coming in the next couple weeks. Currently we are back in chaing mai after our time in the village. Tonight we will board the night train to Bangkok where we will spend tomorrow before we fly to cambodia for our last few days. There will be another update at some pt soon, but here is what we have so far.

7/4/2009

Sawatdee (Ka/Khrap),

Greetings all. We have been in Thailand nearly a week now and things are great. We have seen and done so much already, and it has been great getting to know each other and the group.

We spent the first few days around Chiang Mai getting to know the group and this beautiful city. We had our first Thai lessons and have had lots of opportunities to practice at local markets, restaurants and with our hotel staff. We have been using songthaews (local taxi trucks) to get around and students have really enjoyed all the sights and sounds of the city. We have had plenty of rest by the pool to get everyone on Thai time and have shared some amazing meals. The students are particularly enjoying trying all the different fruit out and the dragonfruit seems to be a favorite. We visited the famous Wat Doi Suthep a Buddhist temple atop a nearby mountain and learned a little about Buddhism. We also had a chance to visit a temple here in town and were able to talk in groups with monks about Thailand, being a monk, Buddhism, and life in general. It was a real highlight for the students.

Everyone has agreed the trek has been a real high point in the trip so far. We hiked to a hilltop village where we were treated to amazing scenery, a beautiful bamboo long house to share, and even some amazing singing and music from the local community. Once we hiked down we were able to relax and cool off with a great ride down the river on bamboo rafts while enjoying the scenery. Yesterday we finished the trek with a trip to the elephant preserve where everyone got a chance to visit with the elephants and take a ride through the jungle. The students especially enjoyed getting to cross the river on top of the elephants.

We have done lots of preparing for the community and feel as ready as we can be for this next step of our adventure. We will load into vans this morning and head to Baan Pok where a welcome ceremony awaits us.

We hope this finds you all well and we will update you when we can!

Team Thailand

7/9/09

Family and Friends,

Our Thai journey continues…

We arrived in our village of Baan Pok on Sunday to a very special welcome ceremony that the entire community had planned for us. During this ceremony everyone in our group and the community was connected together with one piece of string, and then there was some chanting in Thai to welcome us and provide good luck to our group. Then the elders came to cut the string, and tied the string as bracelets on us, many of which remain on our wrists as a special reminder of the warm welcome and good wishes they presented to our group. Our homestay parents tell us that these bracelets both protect travelers on journeys while at the same time reminding them of those loved ones they have left behind. We will certainly cherish them during our time here together!

Our first morning in the village was a Buddhist holiday, and the community invited our group to come to the temple to celebrate. At dawn we climbed the local wat, or temple, along with our host families and the entire village in order to celebrate the full moon holiday, during which everyone brings food, flowers and gifts to the temple. The story goes that these gifts will help to sustain the monks living within, as they are not allowed to spend a night outside the temple for the following 3 months. It was such an honor to be invited to participate in this beautiful ceremony!

Otherwise, we have been working very hard on our service project and our efforts are really paying off! Endless bucket brigades and sand trains have made an immediate impact. Walls are rising (up to 4 feet) and the community center is coming together quickly. Hand gestures and our basic Thai lead to forms of communication that are both functional and hilarious. Students in the community just finished teaching us a local Thai dance and we look forward to spending more time with them now that school is back in session. In the afternoons we've really been enjoying workshops designed and led by our "student leader of the day." These have ranged from fun games to more reflective discussions. This weekend we are really looking forward to spending some time in a local orphanage that has invited us for dinner. All in all we've had SO much fun together, and the group has been incredibly supportive, accepting, and open with one other. How lucky we all are to be here in Thailand! Hope you are all having a great summer back at home too!

More to follow…
Team Thailand

7/17/09

Greetings from Baan Pok! It’s hard to believe, but we’re wrapping up our time here in the village very soon and are putting the final touches on the community center we are building. We just finished a day of plastering after days of mixing mountains of cement. The work has been rigorous but rewarding, and we look forward to that last coat of paint that will go on the building this weekend!

Last weekend we all enjoyed a great excursion to an innovative and inspiring orphanage in the area. Global Routes has been visiting this particular organization for the last few years, and each time they welcome us with open arms and smiling faces. We worked and played with kids ranging from 4 to 14 and they showed us around their sustainable farm where they learn job skills including gardening, wood carving, and crafts. In the afternoon we played some soccer with the kids and shared a dinner with them that evening. That night was a great time for a deeper conversation about the differences in our lifestyles and culture and what we can take home from this experience.

Back in the village, we continue in that sprit by sharing stories each morning before diving into the work of the day. We are locally famous for breaking into song throughout the day as we share our pop music with the work crew here! Each day the hardest workers earn “red can” (a.k.a. Coca-Cola) awards, which we all enjoy in the warm afternoons. In the evening, we all have enjoyed helping our families to cook, though only the bravest among us have tried some of the more “exotic” offerings, such as tadpole soup, fried silkworms, and pig brain. For others, bowls of rice, chicken or goat, edamame, bamboo shoots, and, of course, fish sauce is more than enough to fill us up!

In short, we will certainly miss the routines and friendships we have developed here, but look forward to a memorable farewell ceremony and project dedication upcoming. We’ve already written thank you cards to our host families, which will be translated into Thai by our leaders. To you, we also want to thank you for supporting us in our journey and we look forward to sharing more stories soon!

Team Thailand

Bend Weather...

2009-06-09T20:49:00.001-07:00

I love thunderstroms, but this was a whole different thing. Still pretty fun to watch. Take a look at the photos. Something like 2 inches of hail on the ground and a bunch of flooding.

Pickett's Charge

2009-06-07T21:56:00.000-07:00

Just had to post about what a ridiculously fun race that was. So much single track, twisty, technical, rocky, sandy...a little bit of everything just as a mountain bike race should have.

Sat morning I got to ride the course as we marked it and put up signs, ribbons, etc. It seemed great then, I knew it would be even better at full speed...It was!

Attended graduation Sat afternoon, then got to host Team Lazy Tarantulas as well as the Jr Team Lazy Tarantulas...Good times.

It was a chilly start to the race, but the sun came out at the start and it was just about right. A dusty run up the road to the single track and it spread out considerably. I went backwards on the first lap, feeling exhausted, thirsty ( I dropped my bottle early on the first lap as I fumbled to get it back in the cage), and slow. I had to pee so bad that I took a leak as I was going down a section of trail while riding (nobody was around and I just coasted). I got into a rhythm as the second half of the first lap turned down grand slam. I started catching folks, pedaling harder, feeling stronger. Made a move around some folks going into the second lap, caught some more on the climb and again at the first technical rocky section. Got a water bottle hand up at one of the intersections...THANKS! I kept feeling stronger as the second lap went on. Caught up with D and Mike for a while and rode together till mike flatted and D cramped. Started picking up a few more on the run in to the last rocky section and then just pushed it as hard as I could on the road out. A beautiful day to be out riding bikes with the team and friends.

A short week of craziness as school winds down and we pack everything up and get ready for Thailand. I'll ride bikes a bunch this week and jump in a crit on Wed. Almost summer!

Photoshop Fenway...

2009-06-04T20:12:00.000-07:00

A while back I came across this image and I really liked it because it looked like a mini model. I wasn't quite sure what the trick was, but with a little work and help from photoshop, I think I have it dialed in. A big part of it is starting with an image that already appears like a model to some extent, it helps if its more of a landscape shot from a high angle, then it's just a matter of making everything look a little more fake with some color and focus...I tried it out with a shot of Fenway park. Once cross season rolls around I want to try and capture some shots that will work well for this. A pretty cool trick.

STXC, TT's, Dust, Rain, Thunder, Hail...

2009-06-03T22:18:00.000-07:00

A quick update. Been riding a lot this week. Tues I jumped into the STXC race and just hung on. Some fast dudes out there...Took 5th out of 5, impressive I know. It was dusty and sweaty with two climbs that were just long enough to really hurt.

Yesterday, rode through some of the heaviest rain I have ridden in. Was on my way with Serena out the the local Wed night TT race. Serious storm we rode through was almost comical, it hailed on us briefly too. Puddle deeper than the bottom bracket, no joke. Just brought the road bike and no aero gear. Got in a quick warm up and off I went, it wasn't raining anymore. It was painful but over quick. I could clearly improve my time trialing, just not sure what it's gonna take or if I care at this pt in the season.

Only a few races left in me before the departure to Thailand...Pickett's this weekend should be sweet, it's been raining a bunch and the trails will be perfect. Next week a crit. That's it. Run a bit whilst traveling, hit it hard in Aug for CYCLOCROSS!

OBRA Road Race

2009-05-31T22:21:00.000-07:00

I wasn't quite sure what the deal would be going into this one...It wasn't racing by category, rather by age group, for me 30-39. There was a senior mens group that was open, but that's where a bunch of Pros were racing and I decided against it. I figured that most cat 1/2 riders would be in the open group and I would be racing with mostly 3's( actually though there was a pile of 1/2 riders in the 30-39 group). It would be a good test I figured. We had perfect weather and a beautiful course with a bunch of hills, more of a power course and less of a climbers course as the hills were fairly short.

The race started at a decent clip, and I worked my way towards the front of the group. I was surprised at how strong I felt on the short climbs and kept ending up on the front. Somewhere in the middle of the first lap there was a break, it seemed early and I didn't chase after it, nor did most others. I think somewhere else in that lap a couple folks bridged up to the break without a lot of folks realizing what was happening, I should have gone here as I felt strong and could have possibly pulled it off at this pt. The break of 5 had 30 seconds on the group when we came through the first lap...We picked it up a little on the second lap, but not enough to catch them and this is where they must have opened it up, because the next time we came around the gap was up to 1 min 30s (going into the last lap it was nearly 4 min). There were a couple small attacks and I joined a few, but nothing stuck and we kept together. The race was a little longer than most of the cat 4 races I have been doing so I was glad going into the final lap that I still felt fresh. A few more attack attempts, but towards the last 3k we were all together still. The finish was on a hill about 600m long...a bunch of folks jumped right at the base of the climb and I picked it up, but saved a little something...folks were blowing up quickly and I made it around quite a few, I lost a bit of steam by the last 200m and got passed by a few folks, but managed to finish with the front of the chase group in 12th overall. Not a bad race. I really wish I had gotten in that break, but it was a fun race and I was glad to be out. There was a lot more racing than in a cat 4 race, not harder really, just more tactical. It was good to be racing with some fast guys to see how I stacked up. (I ended up in front of a lot of 3's and some 1/2 racers as well and never really felt like I had gone too hard.)

A great day of racing in the sun. Probably only have a crit left in my schedule before we take off for the summer, that and some mt bike racing still. It's winding down fast!

Sunnyside Sports

2009-05-27T20:42:00.000-07:00

I have spent a lot of time in bike shops over the years, I like spending time in bike shops, looking over gear, maps, magazines, tools...Ruth knows that when I go in there is no telling how long it will be before I am out. If I start talking races, bikes, whatever, it's all over and there is no shortage of great folks down at Sunnyside to talk bikes with. I joined the Sunnyside team because I saw them at cross races and they looked like a group of friends who like to race together, that's what I want in a team, not just a jersey and a shop, but a group of folks who like to cheer for each other, help each other out, and race bikes together. I feel lucky that I stumbled on not just a great team, but an amazing bike shop. Sunnyside sports is the kind of shop I would wish for if I could only have one shop in town. Now Bend has no shortage of bike shops, but I love that when I am out riding I usually end up running into someone from the shop. The other day I did a little road ride and ran into Don, we rode together for a while, he was on his way to mt biking and I was off on a road ride so we went our ways, maybe 20 mins later I ran into Barb and friends coming back from a road ride. Barb is probably one of the friendliest bike mechanics you'll ever meet. As I finished my ride I thought of how many times I have run into someone from the shop on the trail, the road, training for cross, at a race, at restaurant, a bar, out hiking. It's group of folks who are very much a part of the Bend community and a great great shop. They have taken plenty of their time to help me out with projects and issues that don't deserve the attention I get, but I am sure I am not alone. Just wanted to once again say THANKS. You guys rock!

Project Thailand

2009-05-22T14:21:00.000-07:00

We got some pics of the project site where we will build a community center and of the rural community of Baan Pok, the village in the Samoeng District of northern Thailand where we will live and work while in Thailand.

It's coming quick, there's a lot to do before we leave. We are excited and anxious.

A giant thank you to the folks who have donated or shared the link to donate. Please share it with as many folks as you can, and if you have a way to donate, even $5 helps.
Click here
http://firstgiving.com/mfox

A photo

2009-05-21T22:35:00.000-07:00

From my ride today...actually it's 4 different pictures from my cell merged together with photoshop (it looks better when you click it). A little twin bridges loop in the sun...ahhhhh.

Peugeot uo8

2009-05-20T21:38:00.000-07:00

From what I can tell it's an early 70's...maybe '73. I got the frame for $5 at a garage sale down the street, built it up with some parts from Damian's garage (hooked me up with a sweet half campy half dura ace crank), my garage, and few parts from sunnyside. Pretty happy with it. It's the new townie/grocery getter.

She still needs a name...Suggestions>?

Videos...

2009-05-20T20:52:00.000-07:00

A couple new ones up over at race.cx including one of Richard Groenendael...you may remember him from posts such as shoving Steven at Scheldecross...He's using his fist in this one. And an excellent video of Julien Absalon, an incredibly strong mt bike racer showing what mt bike racing feels like. Brian is right...I can relate.

Check em.

Il Campionissimo

2009-05-18T21:02:00.000-07:00

Saw this image in the NY times. Just wanted to share it. I am always in awe of the riders of these days. They were heroes in a way that doesn't seem to happen as much anymore. I am always inspired by the greats...Coppi is right up there on my list.

Fausto Coppi during the 1952 Tour de France

Pole Pedal Paddle

2009-05-17T22:01:00.000-07:00

I'm gonna make this a short one...it was six different races, and I am not about to write six different race reports.

It was a fun day, well maybe the skate skiing and running weren't that much fun. In the end though, it was a great day to be out racing around in the Bend sunshine.

I got my mug (1st place in the male individual 30-34 group). Now I am gonna have to step it up next year and race in the elite category. My time was 2hours and 8 minutes. Next year I want to be closer to 2 hours or under...I think actually running and skate skiing before the race would help. Going in the morning with the elites would also speed things up as the snow is a little more firm at that point in the day. That and a faster boat would certainly shave some time off.

Anyways, a great time. My first PPP. I am already looking forward to the next one.

Bend: Pole Pedal Paddle

2009-05-14T20:23:00.000-07:00

It's great to see all the boats on cars around town, people out on bikes, and folks running along the river all in prep for the pole pedal paddle. I love the fact that it seems like the whole town is out training. Went for a paddle last night with Serena who is racing with the Elite women (watch out...she's fast!) Ruth came along and took the Dogs for a little swim. The river was full of boats and everyone seemed to be practicing turns, working out the kinks, and getting ready. Seems like it has taken me all week to get ready. I have been waxing skis, checking over gear, finding the just right boots, skis, clothing, boating equipment, mounting aero bars, and securing bike gear that will make it go smooth. I'll drop off my boat Fri afternoon and go home to check that everything is ready. I haven't done the Bend PPP before, so I am going into it without a lot of expectations. The weather is going to be perfect...sunny and probably in the 60's during the early morning, getting up to 80 by the afternoon. I should be done before it gets too hot.

People joke that it's the Bend Olympics...it's not such a joke as there are probably more former and current Olympians competing than can be counted on both hands. A lot of strong competitors out there to be sure. I didn't register in the elite field this year as it's my first, but I am curious to see how my time will stack up. I haven't really trained for the nordic leg or the running leg, both places that one can gain or lose a lot of time. Sure I can get down on the skis fast and on the bike, but neither of these will be a huge advantage...if the bike ride had some more hills to it that might be another story, but alas it's mostly downhill. The paddling this week has felt good, I felt strong enough at least. I certainly won't have the fastest boat out there, but I have paddled enough to feel ready for that leg.

Regardless it's gonna be a good time. I'll see what I can do.

Chainbreaker

2009-05-10T21:33:00.000-07:00

Ahh mountain bike racing in Bend. It sure was nice to wake up, sit around drinking coffee, throw a few things in a bag, and head to the race 10 min down the road.

After a long race last weekend and some good racing and training over the last week I went in feeling ready. The weather couldn't have been better. The trails got some rain early in the week and were in great shape with minimal dust.

A tough start uphill and I was feeling pretty worked at the top of the hill. Went backwards a bit, but eventually got into a good pace and worked my way up...I kept catching folks and worked at moving up. There was a real good mix of slight uphills, downhills, and lots of singletrack...not a lot of places to rest, you had to be on top of it the whole way, but a lot of fun sections and a good mix of up and down.

I did this race last year without really any training, I had barely touched the bike all spring, but just decided to jump in... ( I had been finishing grad school, selling the house, and moving). It was miserable. It took me about 30 min less this year...that's pretty significant. More importantly, it was a hell of a lot more fun this time around. The third lap was tough, but I felt strong going into it, I moved up a bunch, catching some more folks, and nearly catching one of the pro racers. Ended up finishing third in my group and was happy with the result.

Yet another strong sunnyside showing...Don won his group, our junior teammate William won his and there was a pile of Sunnysiders out racing. Solid!

Gonna ride a bunch this week, sneak in a little paddling, and some running, in preperation for the Pole Pedal Paddle on Sat and a road race on Sun.