Circumnavigation of Mt Mitchell

 I headed out for an overnight bikepacking trip.  The main goal was to camp on Mt Mitchell.  But I had all day to ride, so I decided to ride around the mountain range first,  on the western side.  I rode up the Parkway and down Ox Creek, the out and over the mountain through Reems Creek to Barnardsville.  I stopped at the little feed and seed store and was glad to find a fridge full of handmade foods and a Coke.  I sat and ate half before heading on up Hwy 197.

 I had driven a little ways up 197 a long time ago, but had never seen the whole thing.  I was excited to be exploring new ground and looking forward to pedaling all day.  Little did I know at this point that I would be pedaling well past sunset! 

 The pavement finally ended and I enjoy the sights and sounds of Pisgah from a different angle.  Less than a week after the Stage Race, I was feeling decent.  Not fast, but steady. 

 Up and over the top, down the other side and into Murchison.  This would have been a cool store long ago when it was open. 

 It was getting close to 3pm when I pedaled into Burnsville and, being hungry, I made the mistake of going to Mc Donald's.   I was craving a chocolate shake which was great, but the Big Mac was terrible.  I bought 2 apple pies for later which was a good decision.  Next time, I won't be getting a Big Mac. 

 Back onto 19E and headed over through Celo then onto the gravel road past Black Mountain Campground.   I learned something valuable.  I had hoped to get to the restaurant on Mt Mitchell for dinner.  It was around 4pm, and I barely had time to meet my goal.  But,  the staff at Black Mountain Campground informed me that it was supposed to start raining early in the morning.  The highest peak east of the Mississippi combined with early morning rain and 40 degree temps did not sound appealing at all. 

Upon gathering and considering all of the info,  I should have turned around, gone back to the golf course in Celo and grabbed a burger at the grill there.  Then spend the night at Black Mountain Campground. 
 

 Instead, I pedaled on,  up the gravel road to the parkway, then south towards the mountain.  I arrived at the gate at 7pm.  It would be another 2 miles to the restaurant.  I should be able to make it, but then doubts started hammering.  What if they closed early?  What if I got a flat and didn't get there in time?  What ifs?  I had some snack foods, but didn't want to spend the night hungry.

Then I considered riding home.  Only another 30 miles,  which would make 100 for the day.  I headed south,  the sun set and it was dark, except for the light of the moon.   The next hour and a half was spent riding alone through the darkness.  With only an occasional car passing.   Some times, I turned off my lights and rode by the light of the moon.  It was almost magical. 

 I arrived home at 9pm,  and enjoyed a warm night's sleep.   I have some unfinished business on the mountain, but that will have to wait for another day. 

Keeley Rides the Parkway

Check this out,  my friend Mike Keeley is riding the Blue Ridge Parkway!!

http://parkwaybybike.blogspot.com/

Exploring

 Adventure,  exploration, challenge..... a few of the reasons that I ride my bike.  I rode around the mountain and got caught in the dark on the way home.  I turned the lights off periodically and rode by the light of the moon. 

 Magical, mysterious, imagination running wild.  Too wild.  Need to tame that, take a deep breathe and enjoy the way the moon makes dark shadows on the pavement. 

Pushing the limits, reaching new heights,  rewarded with the satisfaction of accomplishing something that I didn't know I could do. 

Slept well.

Thanks

Thanks for all of the love!!   This 1st place means a lot to me.  And everyone in my community near and far that helped me get to this has a special place in my heart.  A lot of blood sweat and tears went into this.  A lot of questions, picking coaches brains, driving to get proper bike fit,  good natured heckling from the bike shop staff,  Liberty Bike's THNR,  the wife and kid encouraging me to follow my dreams.

(click each sponsor to view their web-page)
Thanks Siren Bicycles, I-9 Wheels, Suspension Experts, Endless Bike Company, Namrita for the nutrition help,  Tom Coleman and Eddie O'dea at WN Precision, and Liberty Bicycles for keeping my ride rolling smoothly! 

And of course, thanks to Blue Ridge Adventures  for giving me this opportunity.

Stage 5

Stage 5 podium

 We lined up and the competition was ready.  I was tired, so I knew they were tired.  I had the advantage of knowing the route,  knowing their skills versus mine, and knowing where,  if things worked out, I would make my move.

I first attacked on the 2 mile gravel decent to Gloucester Gap.  I got a bit of a lead and settled in to my own pace up the gravel road toward Farlow.  Minutes later, Mike and Dave caught me.  I upped the pace and stuck to Dave's wheel.   I stayed there all the way until the last 1/4 of a mile.  He is strong as an ox,  Mike too,  and their pace was just a little higher than what I wanted,  or should be at so early in the race.

I let them go and continued pushing, past the gate, up, down, around and finally down to Farlow.  I rode cautiously, hoping I would see Mike and Dave on Farlow.  They don't like the wet rocks and roots.  I had prayed for rain, but was not granted my selfish wish!

Making the right turn onto the first rocky section of Farlow, I saw Dave,  walking.  I had ridden part of it, but was now walking as well.  He greeted me, I greeted him, then I put my trail running skills to use and dropped him like a hot potatoe.  I had to get a cushion on him because he can climb.  I was worried that I would not be able to keep his pace on the gravel road to Bracken.

I arrived at the sketchy creek crossing and spotted Mike on the other side of the valley.  I kept pushing.  He would be loving lower Farlow and Daniel's Ridge.  He was also geared a little higher than me so would be able to outpace me on the gravel, but he was also tired.

I enjoyed this section of trail as well.   I hit the gravel end of Daniel's Ridge, motored into the rest stop,   Karlos lubed my chain,  swapped bottles, grabbed a pb&j and rolled out.  The elderly lady that made the sandwiches said "Take two, their small".   I didn't have time.  I just smiled at  her and stepped on the gas.

Stage Race Overall Single Speed Podium.

Davidson River trail went by, right at the Fish Hatchery, then finally climbing.  The first pitch seems to be the steepest, so I pushed my pace up that and then settled in.  A few geared people caught me.  I was feeling good though, so after about 5 minutes, I started reeling people in.  I was focused,  I knew Mike could not be far and I was determined to at least get him in sight before the finish.

About 3/4 of the way up the gravel road that never ends, I caught up to the guy on the geared fat bike.  He mentioned that Mike was just up the road.  I was still feeling good,  pushing my limit for sure.  He offered to trade pulls.  We did for about a mile.   I was able to recover enough to keep going on my own.  Up and around the bend,  there was the wooden post,  signifying that Bracken was in a couple of hundred yards.  Just as I hit the single track, I saw the orange Poc helmet and the yellow leader's jersey.  There was Mike.  He was standing and I could smell weakness.  I stood and punched up the first little grunt climb.  My legs responded.  I was happy.

I caught Mike right at a long sweeping left turn.  He glanced back and said" Aw, S#^t! "  I  smiled and passed him on the inside of the turn.  I said"  Hello, Mike".  Then his single speed attitude showed through and he yelled" GO, Go GO!"    And I did,  like  a scalded cat,  like a bat outta hell,  like a.... well you get it.

My legs were burning.  Punch it, spin it, coast it,  what kind of idiotic maniac was I?  I thought about bike packing.  Then I focused.  Punch it,  coast,  lean, watch out for the acorns.   I glanced back a couple of times.  Pushed the bike up one steeper section, pedaled hard, and finally hit the last steep decent to the Brevard Music Center.

Wrapping around through the lot and follwing the CYMBL course,  I crossed the finish line in 1st place!  WOW.  A lot of whooping, hugs and high fives ensued. 

I have been racing for close to 8 years now, and this is my first time ever being 1st!   It feels good.

Stage 4

The day went about as I had hoped.  Still 2nd in single speed, I followed Mike and Dave.  Mike is too strong for me to keep up with, so I decided to stick with Dave and make sure we finish together so I can hold on to 2nd place.   Dave was pushing the pace, even on the hike a bikes but I was fine.  At the top of the first climb he pulled over and had  to tighten a skewer.  I rode on and was able to ride my pace the rest of the day. 

I was a bit fatigued from trying to stay away on stage 3.  I wanted to conserve as much as possible so I could have some fight left for Stage 5.  It was a long hard day through some of the best single track we have. 

I had trouble riding anything moderately techy and did a lot of walking.  But,  I kept moving forward.  I knew that 3rd place was close behind.  If he caught me,  I would be forced to ride his pace again. 

I got to the last 8 mile stretch of gravel and held a steady pace to the end. 

Mike got another 15 minutes or so on me, and I beat Dave by 6 minutes.  Not enough to be comfortable on Stage 5.  I'm stressing myself out a bit. I need to chill and just ride with Dave.   If I can ride the technical stuff today, I might be able to get a lead on both of them once we get to Farlow/Daniel.  But I gotta be patient and not blow up.

Here goes!

Stage 3

It feels like a long time ago that we lined up for the 2014 edition of this race.  I'm tired but recovering well and looking forward to tomorrow's big stage that includes Squirrel, Laurel Mountain and Pilot. 

We lined up today and headed down 2 miles of gravel.  My initial plan was to follow Mike and Dave and keep an eye on them.  When I realized that they were not handling the gravel decent well,  slowing in the corners, and knowing that they did not have the experience of riding a trail like Butter Gap,  I turned on the gas and dropped them. 

I hit the single track and climbed like a scared cat and pushed the pace way too high.  After looking back across one little valley,  I didn't see either one and I let off the pressure just a hair.  Out onto the gravel road,  and almost to Davidson River trail, I looked back and saw Mike slowly gaining on me.  I hit the gas again, and held him off for another 30 minutes all the way to the first rest stop.   He kept riding, I stopped to refill.  I glanced at his bike and noticed that he only carried one water bottle...

I got on the road again quickly and assumed my pace.  I had no idea how far back Dave was, but assumed that he would be taking it easy today.  He had taken a hard day yesterday, and I assumed. 

Cove Creek Enduro, Daniel's Ridge and the fire road back to the rest stop.  Topped off the bottle and headed the last 8 or so miles to the finish.  I took my time, chatting with other racers and going an easy pace.  About 4 minutes out of the rest stop,  a racer from Boston, stated that " The guy on the fat bike is not very far back".   Crap!  No more time for chit chat, I hit the gas and got going.  Never assume! 

I made it to the finish without getting caught, but Dave managed to finish about 2 minutes behind me.  I lost another 12 minutes to 1st place so it looks like I won't be able to catch him,  but with over 40 miles of racing left,  anything can happen.

Stage 2

Game Face

The day started moderately.  I got in the lead group and was quickly caught by Michael, 1st place SS and Dave, 3rd place SS  was right behind me.  The 3 of us wound up and around Thrift Cove heading to Sycamore.  The pace was a little higher than I would have liked, but I decided to hang on until we got back to the pavement. 

Michael bobbled and I took advantage,  putting pressure on the pedals and pulling away.  And then I was on my own.  I decided not to push too hard, but stay steady.  I knew that if I was on the run all day, I would push too hard and blow up,  not what I was going for. 

By the time we completed the short loop, they had reeled me in, passed me, and I let them go.  Had to maintain my pace. 

The day went by fairly uneventfully.  I caught up to Dave at the bottom of Avery Creek.  He had crashed.  I hated to pass him like that,  I made sure he was ok, and motored on.  Once I got on Clawhammer, I saw him through the trees.  I pushed a little harder,  beating him to the line by 7 minutes.  I didn't see Michael again until the finish,  he gained another 15 minutes on me, totally about 25 mins.  A lot of time, but a lot can happen.  I'm not gonna stop fighting!

Stage 1

Stage 1 details

Ok,  these are going to be short, because I don't have much time.  Maybe I'll come back later and fill in some more details.

We lined up in 48 degree weather this morning and rode down 6 miles of pavement.  I didn't know what to expect since this was my first time single speeding the stage race.  I decided to keep my pace withing what I knew I could ride.  I rode the first 1/3rd with Joe.  He's just out there riding,  I admire his attitude.   Coming up from Florida,  there is a lot more climbing than he is accustomed to.  He did alright.

I said hey to Jason and rolled on.   I was feeling good, and kept reminding myself not to get caught up in the race,  just to ride my own pace, and enjoy.

The woods are amazing right now.  Fall is definitely in the air,  acorns all over the trail like treacherous little marbles.

My pace paid off.  Halfway down Black Mountain Trail, I passed a single speeder.  This put me in second for the day.  Sweet!  I am sitting about 10 minutes behind first,  and 1 minute ahead of 3rd!

Fun times.   Can't wait to go for another ride tomorrow.

Opening Ceremony

I got to the Brevard Music Center and  checked in,  got some food and  chatted with friends new and old.  We ate, joked and then listened as Todd Branham went over the finer details for what lies ahead: 5 stages, 145 miles and over 20,000 feet of elevation gain.  Sounds like a fun time. 

Oh, and I forgot to mention that I am going single speed this year. 

The I-9 wheels made me do it.

I decided to weigh both of my Sirens and it turns out they are really close to the same weight.  And I've never done this race single speed.  It is, after all, my "year of hitting reset" and I've been having fun with it.  Single speed at Fletcher Flyer, then ORAMM,  why not the Stage Race?  

so, here goes.  Thanks Siren Bicycles, I-9 Wheels, Suspension Experts, and Liberty Bicycles for keeping my ride rolling smoothly! 

And of course, thanks to Blue Ridge Adventures  for giving me this opportunity.

Let's rip!

Stage Race

Its that time again.  The Pisgah Mountain Bike Stage Race is here.  My head is back in the game and my legs are feeling decent.  My goal this year,  to have fun and finish.   Ok,  I'm gonna give it everything I have, but I'm not going to stress about it. 

I haven't trained specifically enough for this race, but I am coaching my kid's soccer team.  And I spent the afternoon teaching him how to sail, why the wife slept so she could work the night shift.  Then I took the kid to the park and helped him work on his soccer skills..... the "distractions" go on. 

It is a good trade off, one I don't regret at all. 

I'm excited about meeting a bunch of new people and hanging out with old ones: 

  "We are excited to have racers join us from all over the world, including Australia, New Zealand and St Maarten.  We've also got folks coming from 19 different states including as far away as Washington, Oregon, Michigan, California, and Colorado! "

This will be the 6th annual Stage Race.  Each one has been a little bit different.  My total finishing time in 2012 was 24 hrs.  Last year it was 14 hrs.  The courses have been shortened a little bit!

5 days, 140 miles, 20,000+ ft of elevation gain

Looks like a fun time.

 

Change

I've been tired,  dragging,  unmotivated.  Part of me was even dreading Pisgah Monster Cross last week and now Pisgah MTB Stage Race next week.   Trying to rest, taking time off the bike helped a little. 

When Thursday rolled around, I decided to go on one last THRN with Liberty Bikes.  Kevin, Jonathon, Shota and Mark (?) showed up.   We rolled out at 5:30pm,  early because of the impending sunset.  I made sure I focused on my pedal stroke.  I had realized before Monster CX that I had let my pedaling technique slip.  Quite possibly the reason that I had cramped up on the last two THNRs. 

At some point during the ride, Kevin and I had a quick talk about my perspective.  I realized that it was a strong possibility that I was psyching myself out with negative thought trains.  He agreed.  I decided to chill out.  I relaxed my pedal stroke too,  then shifted a couple of gears and relaxed.  Over the next few miles, things changed for the positive.  I was rolling along smoothly, using less effort, and...... having fun. 

Identifying the warning signs of negative thought patterns and negative habits can be difficult,  but once realized, and positive change becomes the focus,  quality of life can improve quickly.

I realized that my pedal stroke was fine,  I had just been trying to push too big of a gear, causing me to put to much effort into the ride. 

As the ride went on,  I continued having fun.  My thoughts turned to the stage race and I started getting excited.  I got home, fired up.   And now, I'm really looking forward to lining up next week with some fast locals, out of towners and apparently some international riders.  I've been needing a break from the daily grind (which is something else I love and sometimes put too much effort into),  and next week is going to be great!

Win An I-9 Wheelset

Good news.  Jaimee is on the mend and able to head back to work.  Her PT even gave her the green light to ride the trainer.   But, the high medical bills are still looming and she could still use some help.  

Industry 9   agreed to donate a standard wheelset, road or mountain,  in order to help raise funds. 

Here is how it will work:

• If you already donated,  you are automatically entered into the drawing.
• If you would like to donate (minimum $10.00)  you can do so through the end of September.  
• I will randomly pick one donor on October 1st.  
• Donate here: http://www.gofundme.com/JaimeeJohnson

Thanks for helping get  a fellow cyclist back on her feet!   And Thanks to I-9, an awesome company stepping up to help out.

On To The Next Race

The Pisgah MTB Stage Race starts a week from today.  I can't wait.  A 5 day race in my own back yard.   Yes, I could ride these trails for free anytime.  But,  can I ride them with old friends from around the world?  Can I meet knew friends, have a fully supported 5 day tour on most of the best trails in Pisgah?  Is there a meal and a live band at the end of the week? 

The economic benefits that a stage race like this (or any of the MTB/Gravel races)  brings to our community would not happen without people like Eric of Pisgah Productions and Todd/Heather of Blue Ridge Adventures.  Starting with the bikes shops, coffee shops and ending at the taverns.  Support the people who support local economy and the sport that brings us together!

This will  be my 6th consecutive year at the race, and I my aspirations are pretty low.  I'm not aiming for the podium,  I'm not worried about my time or placement.  I'm not trying to break any records. 

I am right on track for my year of hitting the reset button.  I'm going to follow that goal and have fun.  I'll still push my limits, but I'll stop for a couple of seconds to soak in the views and enjoy the ride. 

I'm looking forward to seeing old friends as well as meeting new ones: local , foreign and Canadian....only the nice Canadians.

Pisgah Monster Cross 2013

Saturday morning, I toed the line for this epic event.  Mike Keeley and a lot of other friends had done it last year, and I was curious to see what it was all about.  I was familiar with the route and was excited to spend a day in the woods with a bunch of friends.

I camped out Friday night, and I'm not sure why this always happens to me, but I was rudely awakened several times by "the loud talker".   Hint:  if it is dark, and past 9pm,  and you are in a designated camping area,  then there are probably people trying to sleep.  If you have the need to talk loudly, late into the night, I recommend pulling out a map, and finding a spot where no one else is,  go there and talk to your heart's content....    Finally at 11:30pm I had lost my patience and told the dude to "Quiet down, people are trying to sleep".  I might start yelling at people more often, because the result was silence, and a good night's sleep.

Saturday rolled around, and thanks to Sycamore Cycle's 7:30am opening, I got a new batterty and sensor magnet just in time for the start.  We rolled out.  Dave Wood had dared me to go hard at the front to string everyone out.  I wanted to, but could not get to the front.  Next time.

I kept my pace in check and rolled along, passing and getting passed.  Same ol, same ol.  I was able to get in with a good group that contained, Patrick, Megan, Charlie, Kip Clyburn and some other folks.  We rolled along trading pulls, chatting and having a good time.  I might have put a little too much effort into this stretch, but I felt good and was flowing.

Up to the Liberty Bikes aid station,  Mark and Norman took care of what I needed and I was off.  Steady pace.   While the temps were not to hot, the humidity was high so I tried to maintain a decent pace while not overheating.  I already had some twinges of cramps for some reason.  Pedaling up Wash Creek Road,  Carey Lowery passed me,  she had punctured a sidewall and was smoothly cranking out the miles.  She was not going that much faster than me,  but fast enough to pull away and disappear by the top of the climb.

Up to the gap and south on the parkway,  I yo yoed with several people, and then bridged up to a group.  The pace was just a little faster than I was able to maintain so I backed off and went my own pace.   At some point, I realized that I had not spent any time training for long, hour plus climbs.  Oops.

On up to the Bike Street rest stop.  Quick refill, a little mouth wash cup of Coke and back on the road.  As I listened to the chatter,  everyone was interestingly in the same boat:  high humidity, can't go hard, lacking power, cramping.  Good to know I was fitting in and normal.    The next section of parkway passed by one pedal stroke at a time.  A beautiful section with huge views that I don't remember seeing.  I can't remember if it was too cloudy, or I was in the pain cave.   Then Megan Archer and Mary Shell Zafino caught me.  I tried to hang on but couldn't.  Dang it,  I couldn't let Megan beat me....

I kept the two ladies in sight all the way down 215 and then up the gravel Indian something or other road.  Then I lost them.  Making the last climb up to Gloucester Gap I was excited.  One last down hill, then pavement to the finish.  At the top,  the skies grew dark and let loose.  Monsoon rains,  puddles and rivers running across the road.  I rolled down,  it was sketchy for reelz.

A  guy on fat tires caught me and we started throwing the proverbial "let's see what you got left" punches.  Then we caught Megan and Mary Shell again.  We all rode together for about a mile and the guy gunned it.  I jumped to his wheel.  We traded pulls.  Each time he pulled he upped the pace.  Each time I pulled,  I slowed, and shook my head.  About 1 mile from the horse stables, he pushed hard,  I held his wheel.  He pulled over and I took the front,  slowing slightly.  At the horse stables, I pulled over and got behind him,  he pulled up the little grunt climb.  Just before the top, I hit the gas and dropped the dude.  A couple of glances back and he was close enough that I kept the heat on til the end.  

I hopped, sort of, over the finishing barriers and crossed the finish line.  Time: 5:19.  Not a bad day!

Liberty Bike THNR

Ol' Kevin Hessler took off on a business trip this week so it was up to me to lead the ride.  I showed up along with 7 other hearty souls.

  I was (am) tired and unmotivated.  The long summer wears me out and I ignore it until my body tells me its time to slow down.  I've spent this week off the bike and it felt like it.

We rolled out under sunny skies and humidity. 

It was not a fast ride, but it definitely was not slow either.  I focused on my pedal stroke, something that I realized I had not been focusing on enough lately.

Halfway through the ride, we could see the large dark cloud crowding the horizon.  It was going to be a race to the end.  Everyone was taking pulls on the front,  not just short ones either.   Impressive.   Everyone also had great bike handling skills.  No sketchiness on the ride tonight.

As we rounded the bend onto Mills Gap Rd, the sky grew dark.  We pushed on, opting to go straight to Sweeten Creek Rd and then right on Sweeten Creek.  I had a white light on the front, so the group consensus was that I pull.  Great,  I hope I didn't go too slow.

Up and down Sweeten Creek,  to the Parkway.  We split up and I rode the rest of the way home alone, in the closing darkness.  Thunder rumbling off in the distance and water still standing on the road from the recently passed storm.  Somehow we had managed to miss the rain.

I think I'm going to retire....except for Pisgah Monster CX.

I'm Sailing!

It has been over 25 yrs since I left the island paradise, Bonaire, and moved to Charlotte NC.  That was a shocker.  I was 16 yrs old, and moved from a beach front house in the Caribbean to the concrete jungle.  I still dressed the same, and acted the same.  I had never learned to fit in in another culture.  I didn't realize until later in life that I was "different"  than the darker skinned kids around me.  I cried myself to sleep for 6 months and still feel a sad longing for the island and the people. 

While Bonaire is a diver's paradise,  I preferred to spend my time on top of the water,  zipping along in wind powered craft, sailing and windsurfing.   After moving to Charlotte, after a couple of years, I was able to purchase a windsurfer and get out  to Lake Norman when the wind was blowing.   Then I went to college and sold the equipment. 

The next time I was able to sail was on my honeymoon with Rhonda.  We rented an overpriced catamaran for an hour and sailed in light winds.  And that was that.  Every time, I see a sailboat, or a lot of time when I feel the wind, especially on the coast, I am reminded of gliding along the water, waves slapping the hull, halyards slapping the mast, rudder gurgling behind the boat.....

And then, recently a boat came to me.  I was excited at first, the guy said I could take it and fix it up,  send him $100 when I got it figured out and sailed it, see if I liked it.  I got home and did some research.  It was from the Canadian Marine Equipment company that had gone out of business in 2004. 

I started process of figuring things out and it wasn't working.  For the amount of work that needed to be done, it would not be worth the time and effort.  The boat went back to the owner.  Then I posted online in the Asheville Sailing Club forum,  asking for advice on what type of boat is recommended for a family of 3 or 4 to learn to sail.  I got a lot of friendly responses and some great advice, in addition, I got several offers from people who were wanting to sell their boats.  I looked around at a few and decided to wait, save some more money over the winter and buy a complete sailboat, ready to sail in the spring. 

Then I got an e-mail.  A guy had a1947  O'Day Widgeon.  He was the second owner, his dad had been the original owner.  The boat had been in the family since '74 and it was in great shape and ready to sail.  We met and I looked at the boat.  It was perfect.  We struck a deal that was well within my current budget and the rest is "downwind"

I share the excitement of Bob in the popular movie " What About Bob"...... I'm SAILING!

More of this.

Did some more of this over the weekend.  We didn't make it to the Mountain State Fair yet.  I'm not disappointed.  

I got a good ride in on Sunday morning.  I'm feeling worn out and so just rode a steady easy gravel grinder pace, and felt a little better.   It is hard this time of year.  The darkness closing in earlier,  getting used to the school schedule again.  No more sleeping in. 

One week until Monster CX.  I'm looking forward to it,  its  a huge ride, but super scenic. I gotta focus on resting, but that's hard with an energetic 10 yr old who is bouncing off the walls!  I'll rest one day, I suppose.

Bikepacking has taken a backseat for a little while.  Too many events this month.  I'm thinking about riding out the Monster CX to camp the night before.  I'll see what the weather looks like. 

Whiny

Wow,  when did I become the whiny one?  

I need to go ride my bike and quit worrying about the little annoying crap......

Life Moves On

 Life is busy, period.  Partially my own fault.  I cram too much stuff in.  But I also live a life full of fun, contentment (most of the time) and hopefully helping make this world a better place.  I sometimes wonder what it would be like to work a job, come home, eat dinner and watch tv until bedtime..... then I snap out of it. 

I've been busy wrapping up the Trips For Kids WNC summer programming, cleaning and giving tuneups to over 30 bikes to get them ready for fall after school clubs and spending time with my family. (bikes are family members)

I've been doing some of this:

 A little bit of this:

 Hoping to do more of this:

 And this:

 Definitely more of this:

So many places to go, so little time.  Gotta get outside and laugh with the fam!

Roof Rack For Sale

For Sale: $350 obo

Savage CX, 2014

I finally did it.  I rode and finished my first endruance CX race.  And I enjoyed it.

I lined up with over 100 other racers in Nebo NC on Saturday morning for Savage CX.  A 50 mile mostly gravel route from Nebo, circumnavigating the Linville Gorge.  If  I didn't know the area, I would not have know that we were circling both some world class climbing routes and world class kayaking.   Why not add a world class cycling route to the mix?

The temp at the start was just under 80.  It was already warm and I knew this would play a factor in my race, but I did not know how much of a factor. 

Cam, the director said go and we were off.  I watched my heartrate and found my pace.  I never really fell in with a group because I didn't know what to expect and didn't want to overdo it, burn my matches too early. 

On the first climb I got passed by quite a few people.  It was blazing hot and I didn't want to overheat.  So, I took my time.  As we got higher, the temps started to cool.  After about an hour,  I checked the thermometer and it said 73 degrees.  I picked up the pace and started reeling people in. 

photo: Blue Ridge Mtn Revival

I hit rest stop 1 in good spirits, reloaded and headed out.   Onto some pavement then up Gingercake acres.  Some jerk had moved an arrow sign in here and I caught up to a group of fast people who had taken the wrong turn and detoured. 

Unfortunately,  I had too much air in my tires and could not keep up on Table Rock Rd.   Everyone had told me about the horrible climb in the first 1/3 of the course.  No one had mentioned the fun downhill gravel road in the second 1/3.  So much fun, swooping down, in and out of the contours of the mountain!   

photo: Blue Ridge Mountain Revival

I stopped at aid station 2 briefly to refill, take some Coke shots and move on.  The route took us down some steep sandy, gravely soft forsaken FS roads for about another hour before spitting us out onto pavement. 

Being back down in the heat of the piedmont, I could not push the pace.   My legs felt great but my head and body were roasting.  I spun along the last 10 miles of the course, on pavement, holding a survival pace.  I could see lake James and wanted to swim.  When I crossed the Linville River with 5 miles to go, I could not resist.  I stopped and got in.  I watched as people rode by.  I did not care about losing spots,  only about living to finish. 

Eventually,  Jason Morgan came along and we rode together to the finish.  I was thankful that he came along, as chatting with him lifted my spirit and helped me to enjoy the ride to the end. 

Great course and great race.  I placed 24th in my cat and finished in 4hrs and 30mins!! 

The Last First Day....

.... of elementary school. 

I started this blog as a way to sift through my thoughts and let people know that they were not alone with their thoughts.  Others have and are experiencing similar situations and getting through things are easier if we know others have succeeded. 

I'm proud to say that I have a solid, mature, confident 5th grader.   Today is his last time for a first day of elementary school.  And, he is excited about it.  He is looking forward to getting started, meeting the challenge.  I'm pretty sure its not just to get out of the house and away from me either. 

When I was in 5th grade, I had a different experience.  And as an adult, I tend to expect my kid to have similar experience to what I had.  But, I also give him room to have his own experience.  Fortunately, he appears to be having a great experience, and has expressed the excitement and goals for this year. 


I'm proud of my kid! 

Epic Ride and Beach Time

 Strava Link: HERE

We saved our money for a while and finally had enough to make the trek down to the beach.  We loaded up and headed to Charleston and then north to Buck Hall Rec Area.  I had actually planned ahead and made reservations at the campground there.  We pulled up to our campsite and started to unload when things went downhill.  The kid started running to the van screaming that something was biting him.  I looked down and saw no less than 10 mosquitoes had landed on my skin.  The wife was slapping the ones that were attacking her.  We retreated to the bathhouse then reconvened back at the van.  We decided to donate the cost of our reserved campsite and hunt   down an affordable hotel. 

Through the course of eating dinner, we found Comfort Suites in Mt Pleasant.  While the rate was not what I would call affordable,  we decided to go for it and stay at least one night.  Our budget would be blown but we were at the beach and we were determined to enjoy it. 

After moving into the room we headed out to the beach to watch the sunset. After we got back to the hotel.  We were so pleased with how we were being treated, and how clean and comfortable our room was, that we ended up committing to stay 3 nights. 

 The next morning, I met Low Country Joe for a tour of The Francis Marion National Forest.  This is his description of the 3 hr ride that turned into a 6 hr epic: "Asheville Jane"s was in town and had a little free time to go on a ride into the Francis Marion with me....what was supposed to be a 3 hour ride turned into a 6+ hour adventure....complete with me locking up, near bonk, and exhausting my water supply 1 hour from the end.... crazy day....did I mention I was rolling the Krampus? yeah...it was a tough day but it was fun!"

As the temps climbed towards the mid 90's Joel was having a rough time.  But what he did not mention in his post was that he had been out past midnite the night before, riding 50 + miles and working on his set up for the upcoming Trans North Ga Race!   

 I on the other hand had a great ride and was able to manage the  heat well.  The stop at the gas station for some Coke and ham and cheese sammy, with ice cream sandwiches was a nice touch.  If you head to Charleston, I recommend getting in touch with Joel for a guided trip!

 The rest of the days went well.  Typical beach stuff.  Waves, sand, sunburn, fun family time.

 We headed to the beach after dinner every night.  Dinner one of those nights was hot dogs and baked bean on the Coleman stove in the hotel parking lot.  You do what you gotta do! 

 On the way home, we took the scenic route so we could see a couple bits of the Palmetto Trail.  We rode the dike around Lake Marion.  The temps were around 95 so we lasted about 4 miles,  did not see any alligators.  We hit the ice cream stand in Eutawville and the closed bridge in Santee. 

Can't wait to get back down there!

Gravel Ride

A couple of weeks ago, I drove up to meet  Mike K in Little Switzerland.  He had a gravel road loop mapped out and I was looking forward to giving it a shot.  I got there in time for breakfast.  Rhonda, his wife cooked up some pancakes and eggs.  I couldn't eat everything on my plate and felt bad for not doing so.

We dropped down 226 into the valley and after that I lost track of where I was.  Basically, we rode up the valley, then up to the Blue Ridge, down the other side, , through that valley, then back up to the Parkway and home.

Close to 3 hrs on the road at a leisurely pace.  Perfect day and great conversation. 

Railroad tracks in the middle of seemingly nowhere!

We saw this interesting barn quilt.  I have never seen one like this,  usually they are symetrical designs.  This one was really cool though!  

Once again, Mike pulls off a great loop and we avoid anything epic! 

A Friend Needs Your Help

 Click here to donate:
http://www.gofundme.com/JaimeeJohnson


2 yrs ago, Jaimee Johnsen moved to Asheville, NC looking for a change of scenery and a new start. Most of you reading this have been in that situation.

Jaimee jumped in feet first, volunteering for Trips For Kids WNC, and helping out at local races such as ORAMM and PMBAR. She got hooked on bikes and became so passionate about sharing her new love, that she recently landed a job working at Sycamore Cycles in Hendersonville.

She started training and racing and was becoming quite a fierce competitor.

On Wednesday, August 6th, Jaimee was wrapping up a training ride on the Blue Ridge Parkway, when a vehicle made a left turn in front of her. With nowhere to go, she hit the car with the collision causing her to flip over the bars and land in the hospital. Concussion, fractured skull, fractured femur, damage to ACL and PCL are some of the injuries.

We have all been in a position where we coule use a little help from our friends. Some of us have been in a position where we could use a lot of help from our friends. Jaimee is in the latter position.

5 days in the hospital, combined with recovery and rehab treatments in the future will leave her with a lot of medical bills. In addition, it will be a while before she can return to work and earn some income. Rent, food, and other bills will add up quickly.

The good news is that Western North Carolina has a tight cycling community. A community that supports each other in victory and defeat. And this is our time to come together and help one of our own. Knowing that it could be any one of us at anytime who needs a helping hand, this is our time to help Jaimee.

Thanks in advance,
Stephen Janes

Thursday Night Liberty Ride

I want to take a moment to try to define the undefinable. 

 People ask me periodically about this ride: is it fast? Do we regroup? Are there sprints?  etc.   I try to talk about pace,  what the avg is etc,  but there are so many answers that should start with, "It depends".

It depends on who shows up, the weather, how many show up, if there was  a Ring Of Fire the night before, if there is a race coming up.  So many possibilities.

The ride has been compared to Tuesday Night Worlds,  both on the river and in Etowah.  While those are great rides, and have purpose,  this ride is different.  This is a fast paced spirited ride, and one will have a difficult time trying to control it.

Here are some general guidelines on what to expect, join us only if you intend to have fun while being challenged.

The Group:
Lots of really strong folks, guys and girls show up for this ride.  I have made a lot of good friends, people who really care about others, and who want to see cycling progress as a sport.  It is a mix of pro level racers, to amateur racers, to some who don't race road at all.    The one commonality that I have seen from the group, is that we are not there to intentionally drop anyone and there is a thread of caring, where we watch out for others on the ride.  To the point of occasionally easing the pace, if someone is lagging.  Especially if that person is someone who regularly contributes to the group.  We want to go fast, to get stronger, to learn how to handle the bike better.

General Guidelines:
No Drop Ride:
This ride has been billed as a "No Drop Ride".  Sometimes people do get dropped.  Sometimes people sign on to the fast group, when they don't have the fitness to be in that group.  Its a bit of a common sense thing.  I feel like anyone has the right to ride, but if you don't have the fitness, then don't expect the entire group to wait on you.  The A group will wait,  just not for long,  which is fine with me.  If I get dropped and they don't wait, well I'll try again next week.  The B group will wait longer.  So if you get there and the A group is gone,  wait for the B group!

Sprints:
Believe it or not,  there are no "Sprint Zones".  Yes, there are several places where the pace typically, but not always, picks up.  There are also  places where people give it a go and try to go off the front, or sprint.  Most of the time, but not all of the time,  the rest of the group follows.  But,  every once in a while,  no one sprints, the pace stays steady and everyone chats away,  quietly wondering if someone is going to go, but hoping they won't.   And then there are the random place where someone will go for the surprise attack,   just some random place on the route.  Just to keep it interesting. This is a much more organic, grassroots feel than a lot of rides.  ( not better, just different).

Don't Be A Jerk:
This one is self explanatory.  Respect the other rides, take a turn or two at the front.  Don't suck wheels and then try to take the sprint.  These methods won't garner any respect.  Point out potholes or obstacles.  Obey traffic laws, ( we can all improve here).  Take a turn or two at the front,  unless you don't have what it takes, but then don't try to take the sprint..... 

What To Expect (ie. look forward to) or not expect:

Expect to get worked.  Expect to fell like you are going to explode, to hang on for dear life.  Expect to take a pull at the front now and then.  Expect the unexpected.  Expect friendly people, quiet people, people who care.  Expect to go fast and be ok with getting dropped.  Don't expect to be coddled.  Don't expect for the group to wait if you don't have the overall fitness to keep up. (in that case,  expect the B group to scoop you up).

And this just scratches the surface of what really happens on the ride.   The thing is,  last year,   I struggled with the group.  I wanted to see an organized, rotating paceline type of group that catered to the fast and the less fast.  I wanted to see everyone working together, as  a well oiled machine,  everyone taking equal pulls.  Going fast enough that the slowest could keep up, but slow enough that the fastest still got a workout.  And I got burned out.

This year, I stopped trying to control, trying to put what I wanted on the group.  What I realized is that what we have is a well oiled machine,  out there being what it is, and doing what it does.  Week after week, we go out,  get faster,  challenge each other.  Once I let go of my ideals,  I started having a lot of fun...... undefinable fun.

See you on Thursday!

ORAMM: The Beast is Conquered

 The 15th annual ORAMM is in the books and I'm an official finisher.  It was a tough day in and out of the saddle, but with the help and encouragement from my family team and friends,  I was able to pull through and finish!

The day started out with the high forecast to be around 95 in Old Fort.  I had managed a rest stop the previous day at the Jerdon Mtn Challenge, and was organizing rest stop 2 today.  I had recruited an awesome group of folks to cover for me and I was excited to line up with 499 other racers.

After dropping the trailer with the 150 gallon water bladder off at rest stop 2, I rode the 3.5 miles back to the start line and waited for the start.  After Todd finished with the "race talk" and rules, the gun went off, and we rolled out.

I was in the front and thanks to a couple of pushes from Jason Luque, I was able to hang in until the first climb.   My goal today was to finish,  if I could finish fast, that would be icing on the cake.  The group rolled the pavement and headed up the Point Lookout Trail.  I got into my rhythm,  chatting with old friends about our personal goals.

Surprisingly,  when I got to Kitsuma the trail was not clogged, and most people were riding.  Those who bobbled and dabbed were kind enough to jump out of the way of people still riding.  I was able to ride the entire way.

Thanks to the Luque Crew from FLA USA for the heckle section about halfway up.  They were making a ruckus in the woods that I have not heard since several years ago at the stage race.  If you don't race, you should heckle....period.

I ate some chews and made sure I was drinking enough.  I had started a little on the hungry side, but knew that once my nerves calmed, I would be able to eat a sandwich and get the system on track.

Snaking up and down on Kitsuma, some loud dude got behind me, yelling for people to get out of the way.  Thinking he was joking, I joined in for a few minutes.  When I realized he was serious, I told him he should chill out and enjoy the ride.  He squeezed by me and the guy in front of me, only to get stuck behind the line of 20 in front of us.  If you know Kitsuma, you know towards the end there is an alternate little trail that drops on the right and then shoots back up into the trail.  I hit that right and dropped in,  I let go of the brakes and shot back up the other side giving me the speed to pass the 2 people in front of me, including loud dude.  But, I didn't.  I checked up and resumed my place in line.  It was a fun move though. 

I had been watching my pace and while a hair higher than desired, I wasn't red lining, and there had been plenty of places to let my heartrate drop.  It was a little disconcerting to have the old nauseous feeling returning.  It wasn't that hot out yet, and I was sweating still.  Weird. 

I stopped at Rest Stop 1 to refill my bottles and headed out again.  Climbing Star Gap, I did a lot of walking.  I was feeling worse as time went by and I couldn't figure out what was wrong.  I figured I would keep pedaling, drinking and eating, hoping that my body would calm down.  Maybe it was nerves, or stress, or lack of sleep from stress.   Or maybe my body was worn out from a busy summer.
I rolled into rest stop 2 and ate a sammy and some chips,  and sipped some Coke.  Felt worse.  I went and sat in the creek,  no different.  If it were heat related,  the creek would have made some sort of difference.  I visited the porta jon and felt slightly better.  I laid in the truck bed.  I got up and walked around, frustrated and still nauseous.  Walking around made me feel slightly better.   I laid down again.  I finally went and sat in the mini van with the air conditioner on high.  It made me shiver, but still didn't feel great.

Finally, after about 20 minutes of air conditioning, I felt a twinge of hunger pain.  It felt good,  after about 5 more minutes, the nauseousness subsided.  Then it dawned on me.  I had switched to a different gel and energy chew brand for this race.  It was a brand I had used in the past, I thought it had worked then,  but I also got sick a lot in the past.  Dang it.  That's what it was.  Something in the nutrient was making me sick.  I got out of the van and got suited up.  Ate a little bit and felt decent.

After a 2 hr layover, I was rolling again.  Still not sure if I could finish this beast and 2 hrs behind on calories, I was determined to keep trying.   I thanked my team and bid them farewell.  Rolling up Curtis Creek, I was greeted by the USFS Ranger,   he asked what I was doing so far back.  I told him what was up, and he told me all he was hearing was excuses.  Haha,  funny. 

The climb up Curtis Creek was a slog.   It was around 85 degrees, with barely a whisper of a breeze every now and then.  Not enough to serve any cooling purpose.  I ground onward.  I walked,  barely speaking to people I passed.  I was in conserve energy mode.  The nauseousness/hunger came and went.  I drank,  forced myself to drink.  I was tired of drinking, but knew that I had to drink.  I passed some guys who were walking.  One commented that "we have to be close to the top".  I said nothing.  I knew that those words are something you never tell yourself,  until you are at the top. 

I can't remember how long it took,  but I made it to the top.  I text Rhonda to let her know that I was going to keep going.  I filled my bottles, and headed out.  I had managed to scrounge enough hammer and gu gels at rest stop 2 to help me get to rest stop 4.  I had been using these during training and they had work fine. 

The Parkway was sunny and stuffy.  To the west, there was high misty cloud cover, to the east, blue sky and sun.  It was pretty warm.  Up the major climb, a quick pit stop in the woods.  My body was still flushing the culprit.  Back on the bike, barely looking around, wondering if I should turn around.  Drinking, eating a gel.  Onward. 

Before bombing down the hill at close to 40 mph,  I doused myself with water to cool down.  Halfway down, I was shivering.  It felt great, then I started the last paved climb and warmed up quickly.  3 ish miles and I was glad to see Heartbreak Ridge.  Slow climb up the hike a bike section.  The enduro people were there along with group from the Mc Dowell County EMS.  As a side note, they were all over the race course,  doing their job,  it was great to see them out, supporting this race. 

I was not worried about the Enduro, so I hiked down the first techy bit before riding.  I got on the bike and cruised.  It felt faster than I normally ride it, so I just relaxed and rolled.  I started feeling better.  I did not take the time to enjoy the views.  I just focused on forward movement, efficient pedal stroke and relaxing. 

Oddly enough,  as I made my way down the windy trail, I started feeling better.  I continued drinking Nuun and sports drink.  I let go of the brakes a little and enjoyed the decent.  I could hear a train down in the valley below, I hoped that I wouldn't get caught. 

Sure enough, as I neared the end of the Enduro section, the train roared past.  2 minute delay and a quick chat with the Hoyts, and I was off again. 

A brief stop at rest stop 4, refilled the bottles, grabbed a handful of chips, bummed a hammer gel and I was off again. 

The climb up Mill Creek Rd was a bit easier than I expected,  I put my body on auto pilot and allowed my thoughts to drift towards how it would feel to finish this beast.  I could hardly believe that I was still moving forward,  that I felt decent considering the circumstances.  Up the gravel road and onto the pavement, one last gel before the climb up Kitsuma.   Anything that threatened to raise my heart rate and core temp, I walked.  I was not worried about finishing fast, just focused on finishing. 

I was able to let off the brakes a little on the downhills and have some fun enjoying the trail.  It would probably be a while before I got back out this way, so I wanted to enjoy it,  and I did.  The last little bit of singletrack opened up into the Old Fort Picnic Area.  I pedaled past the Mobile Command Post,  waved and said "Thanks". 

3 miles of pavement to go, I started picking people off.  1 by 1,  I was able to reel in and pass about 4 or  5 people.  That felt good.  

Then the finish and the hands in the air,  victory was mine: I conquered the beast.  

Here Goes....

Well,  its Friday and I toe the line in 2 days.  It is going to be a huge weekend and I'm looking forward to the challenge.   Trips For Kids WNC is sponsoring a Rest Stop #2 in both the JMC and ORAMM.  In addition, I am racing ORAMM. 

I must say,  I am blessed to have a crew of volunteers running the stops each day.  Especially on Sunday,  having friends that will be working for the cause and rooting me on at the same time.  That's special and I don't take that for granted!  I have cool friends and I'm thankful that they call me a friend.

I'm getting to the end of the 2014 summer ride program.  It has been a great summer and I am worn out.  I haven't had time to train consistently, and it is getting hotter by the day.   Lot's of challenges in trying to prep for a 63 mile mountain bike race.

But,  nothing compared to the challenges that the kids in the program face everyday and will continue to face in their futures,  if you are paying attention, you understand.  If you don't know what I am talking about,  go volunteer for a local youth agency that serves the underprivileged. 

And so, I dedicate this ride to the kids.  That's right,  this one is for the kids.  I hope I can inspire!

ORAMM is Coming

Days left until I toe the line at my nemesis race: Off Road Assault on Mt Mitchell.   I'm nervous to say the least.  And excited.  The last time I attempted this race was in 2010 and I DNF'ed.  I also DNF'ed in '09 with an ambulance ride and visit to the ER.  The last time I completed the entire route was 3 weeks after the race in 2010.  I went solo,   had to get that monkey off my back. 

Fast forward 4 yrs, and here I am.  4 yrs of rides, pain, suffering, success.  WN Precision fit, Siren's John Henry set up Single Speed, nutrition and training advice from a lot of people, including Namrita and Eddie O'dea! 

To say I'm ready would be overconfident.  I didn't follow a training plan this year.  My DNF at the P111K definitely encouraged me to "train" but I decided not to follow rigid structure this year.  My 250 mile ride from VA to Asheville brought my legs back to life and taught me a little more about nutrition.   I'm having fun on the bike and not stressing about how many hours I'm getting.  I'm still following my HR and know approximately how hard I can go for how long.  My friends tell me I am riding strong and looking ready. 

I have my doubts,  its natural, but overall, I am ready. 

I just hope I can get some sleep between now and race day!

TNR

 Its been a while since I have posted.  It is summer time and summer time is slammed time.  I have trips going out almost everyday and on a rare day with no trips..... I take advantage and get office type stuff done.   Fun times!

The ride last night started well enough.  Hot and humid and not too fast.  The skies were clear after a huge storm had passed earlier.  I was glad to get out.  I'm averaging 2 training rides per week this time of year, and with ORAMM coming up,  I don't take this time for granted.   I'm bound to be losing fitness though, so my nemesis race will be more like a big ride.  That's fine with me.  I want to finish and sit in that creek without feeling like I'm going to die!

 So, we were cruising along Butler Bridge Rd last night, a group of 4 off the front when a vehicle turned left in front of them.  Bob and Jamie hit some brakes and went down hard.  Officer McMurray was helpful and informed the guys that they were better off not filing a report because their insurance premiums would go up.  That's what I gathered second hand anyway.  Jamie asked the guy for a card, he said he didn't have business cards,  that the state does not pay for them.  I though police were required to have some sort of ID that they could leave with a person.   Maybe I'll order some from Vistaprint and send them to him.

Bob's wife came and picked the two up and hauled them to the hospital.  The rest of us continued the ride, a bit deflated and discouraged for our friends.

Its good to live in a cycling community that sticks together in crisis.  Its good to live amongst people who care on many different levels.

Prayers for Bob and Jamie for a speedy recovery.
Have a great day!