vertical pandas

The Company You Keep

2011-02-25T14:29:00.000-08:00

Bohemianism is the practice of an unconventional lifestyle, often in the company of like-minded people, with few permanent ties, involving musical, artistic or literary pursuits. In this context, Bohemians can be wanderers, adventurers, or vagabonds.

-Wikipedia

Or cyclists. Strung out on Bohemian Highway with twin Freewheel/Hunter riders leading the way, the pandas started their journey. We caught the tail of the peloton before Moscow rode and settled down before the official “it’s on” at Hwy 116. I sat up, and looked around. I was last. Last place. Hmmm, there were others on the road behind me, having suffered from flats or minor phobias, but I was it - the tip of the tail of the peloton. So I did the only logical thing I could think of, I slowed down.

My move paid off. Jeb came chirping down the road. We rode side by side knowing that two pandas are certainly better than one. A third cyclist (though not panda, certainly bohemian) joined us. Her Flemish was flawless, and she was wearing a kilt and riding with cages on a “classic” steed. Becky (her name was Becky, not Ducky) explained that she was taking a dump when the gun went off and that despite her PRO status, she enjoyed these uncompetitive rides. While I couldn’t comment on her start, I certainly shared her enjoyment of the grasshoppers. We continued riding down Cazadero Hwy when what to my wondering eyes should appear before me but another panda! Becky headed down the road while the three pandas regrouped and continued through Cazadero to the base of Fort Ross where I soloed on to regain my place in line. Being last again was a bit daunting, but I shouted back to my panda mates “Don’t worry I’ll catch up.” A tall order, seeing there was no cutting. If I wanted to see another panda on the parcours, I better hustle.

And hustle I did. Fort Ross is truly spectacular climb. As I climbed, I started catching riders who had fallen off the back. First a couple of blokes stopping for a pee brake, then Becky, then another two. Another couple, then a few more before the summit. A left on Myer’s Grade and – whoa baby! Yeehaw! The descent was glorious. Not so much in terms of speed, but this descent could stand alone. It is all about forward, whereas many other descents are merely an afterthought, with the main attraction left behind. At the bottom I met up with the Pacific and some lads from Soulcraft. We pacelined down Rte. 1 each taking our pull. Thanks again Soulcraft! A left on Willow Creek (no time to stop for the Curry Special!) and a slog through the pocked pavement. At the base of Willow Creek I said goodbye to my companions (some stopping to help a fellow hopper, others dropped by yours truly ;). The start of the climb was in pretty good condition but the final third was a bit wet, mud sucking onto my road tires. Despite the conditions, I made it to the gate on my bike and faster that last month’s time (Hopper Old Caz). A quick piss while the boys at NorCal cleaned my drivetrain (bike, not ...umm, nevermind). Man, I felt like a PRO. Until …

Coleman Valley. Lonely Times. Oh so lonely. What songs do you sing when you are lonely? What do you say when you are lonely and who do you say it to? Up here my pace slowed, my eyes searched the horizon, my thoughts rode away with the only person to have passed me since Fort Ross. Behind me another was catching up. I was leaving, giving up … surrendering … succumbing.

Dam it Jim, snap out of it! And I did. I continued up Rte.1 to Bay Hill and back down. I was gaining speed again, gaining a sense of purpose. I was ready for enlightenment, I was ready for Joy! Although it was brutal, converting riders to walkers, I made it up with only a half dozen expletives. For every pitch Joy pulled from the earth, I pushed back. Deep breath, now Push! Heave! Ho! I did it! I had regained my place in line and I was going to finish. Time down? Perhaps, but efforts up.

Riding into Occidental I finally rejoined the other pandas for some cheers and beers. A fine day of riding and relaxing in the company of like-minded people.

Grasshopper #2 - Fort Ross, Bay Hill, and Joy! Road

2011-02-24T15:08:00.000-08:00

Jeremiah will surely provide some more color soon, but here's a visual of what the Pandas were up to last weekend in Occidental.

Race Ready

2010-10-23T14:54:00.000-07:00

How to get race ready - ride the giants on your vacation (col de mente, port de bales, tourmalet,); get on the spinner at lunch; take the long way home on the single speed; and drink just enough beer and eat just enough pork to neutralize the effect of all your time in the saddle. Now you are race ready.

The pandas had a good showing at the first Super Prestige with dave and christine finishing in the front while mike, mike, jeremiah and chris are solid mid packers who might just become top thirds. Might. I'll spare you the details, but Merritt college was a flat technical course whose loose gravel and rocks claimed many tires, knees and elbows. Not sure whether more people visited the neutral pits during the race or the medic's tent afterwards.

Erik represented pandas in oregon, though there is no report how he did except that he looked incredibly smart in the new kit.

Vertical French Pandas

2010-06-25T14:46:00.000-07:00

The Pandas were in France -

http://blog.strava.com/tour-de-france-cyclotourism-riding-the-col-des-ares-and-col-de-mente-1094

How Hard Could It Be?

2010-04-07T08:07:00.000-07:00

Very hard. A tribute to Flanders, Chris, Stephen and I took a ride to a true Muur. 20%, cobbled and right here in San Francisco! Chris was first up, zigging and zagging at the top, but up nontheless. Stephen up next, and next thing Stephen down making kissy faces with the ground again. Oh boy, I'm next. Hit the Muur hard, after the intial momentum faded, I had trouble controlling my bike, my weight made itself to the back - the way back, and I thought I was going to make kissy faces with the ground. One more pedal turn, unclip, then walk. After the cobbles, the climb is not over - hop back on the bike and keep pedaling.

How hard was it? Don't take my word for it, try it yourself -

http://www.strava.com/rides/87061/segment_efforts/807624

Ce n'est pas une course cycliste

2010-03-24T20:42:00.000-07:00

Though much is taken, much abides; and though

We are not now that strength which in the old days

Moved earth and heaven; that which we are, we are,

One equal-temper of heroic hearts,

Made weak by time and fate, but strong in will

To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield.

- Ulysses, T.S. Eliot.

This is not a race, which suits me because I am not a bike racer. Release the hounds, control the chaos, Murphy commands thee – go forward and conquer! You can win this. Yes, you. Win. This.

This is not a race. I more or less managed to stay with the tete de la course up until the top of Mt. Tamalpais with the help of the mighty Krishna pulling me (and others) across the bridge and through the streets of Sausalito. Although he is by far stronger than I, he somehow managed to come from behind and pass me several times. This is an example of just how tough SF Enduro is, not only physically demanding but mentally as well. I was well aware, and prepared for all the physical pain the Marin fire roads could dish out but I was not expecting the mental and emotional drain SF Enduro would inflict. I feared taking a wrong turn. I feared the unknown intersection, and I felt like I could cry – yes, actually cry. But this is not a sad sob story, and enough of this baby whining – back to the race report. This is not a race.

After cresting the East Peak I joined the tete de la course as we headed down Eldridge Grade (Holy Rocky Mother of All UnHoly What The Fuck). I knew I wasn’t going to be able to keep the pace on the descent, so I took a moment to fuel up as I watched Dave courageously give chase. Dave has a way of knowing how to stay up front, no need to read the map when you are on the leader’s wheel. As for me, I cautiously made my way down, picking my lines and picking up a fellow enduro. Although new to the bay area, just three weeks away from Minnesota, he had already ponied up his dues for the norcal hardmen of the peloton club (you’re invited). He indicated they have gravel back home, but this was a whole new ballgame. This is not a race. We continued our descent, stopping to lend a bike pump (frame pump = good idea) to a chap racing on tubular Dugast tires. We all make choices and he chose tubulars. At least they were Dugast. We continued down to the lake and the three soon became four with the addition of a lost DFL soul. Together we took two wrong turns before heading back and running into a trio led by Ernesto. I jumped on his wheel and soon we made our way to the parking lot. After a few more circular moments to make sure we truly did not know where we were going, we finally made our way through the golf course and onto Bolinas Fairfax Road. We all made the climb to Pine Hill Road together were we stopped at the trail head to debate the meaning of the “no bicycles” signage. What to do? “Surely Murphy wouldn’t send us on a trail without bicycles,” some said. Others weighed in, “Actually, that that is exactly what Murphy would do.” The map said take Pine Hill Road and the trail sign said Pine Hill Road so … we must go. I took a closer look at the no bicycle sign and concluded that the sign prohibited bikes in the watershed area, but not necessarily on the trails. On the trails bike were legal; off the trails – no bikes. Everyone seemed to agree and we continued on our way. Shortly thereafter, our decision to take the no bike’s allowed bike trail was confirmed as correct when hikers indicated a man wearing pink riding a mountain bike was just in front of us (gotta love the Sheila Moon kit.) We continued to climb, stretching the gaps between us. I confess, I found myself off the back, walking sections. But I was not the only one – you too can confess your sins and you will be forgiven.

By CP2 the lead (DFL Brad) already had 40 minutes on me. Dave was in 8^th place and our group was the low 20s. Not bad considering multiple confusion stops. As the others continued on, Ernesto and I spent an additional couple of minutes fueling up and comparing SF Enduro so far with La Ruta Loca Randonee (a 200 km mix terrain randonee we both rode this past summer). Ernesto felt La Ruta more difficult, I disagreed, finding the terrain much more challenging here. In the end, I think we both would agree that each were difficult, and each beautiful in their own way. However, SF Enduro was by far more challenging. Ride them both for yourself if you disagree.

We left CP2 together and descended upon a familiar face. Mark had blown front and back tires and only had a minipump, which should be called a whussy pump. Again, there is no substitute for a proper frame pump (except a good minipump – let me know if you know of one). Ernesto continued on, mindful of his time (this is not a race) while I stayed with Mark as he pumped up his tires. I am a firm believer in bike karma and I am confident that my two stops to help others resulted in no punctures for me. But all the karma in the world could not keep me from struggling with the steep pitches and rocky terrain between CP2 and CP3. At the first four way intersection I confidently went the right way, but then at the next intersection I did not know which way to go. So of course I went the wrong way, descending 500 feet or so before realizing that this may not be the route. I hauled my ass back up to the original intersection where I saw another rider, unmistakably taking part in this. This is not a race. There was no mistaking him for a weekend mountain bike recreational rider - Zeitgeist kit, with a fish riding on the back of a tandem, definitely Enduro material. He saw me and pointed to the left, up a small incline. “Are you sure?” “No, but pretty sure.” Close enough for me so on I went, and sure enough I soon hit CP3. At this point I (and the fish tandem) were considering calling it quits once we get back down to pavement. I can’t take much more of this. This is not a race. Just give me a god dam road and I’ll take it from there. But first I needed to get to pavement which meant I had to continue.

I soon came upon what I though was another biker in distress. I slowed asking if they needed anything (you can never have too much good karma). All I heard was “Whawhawha Murphy.” Huh? I thought, there is Murphy’s Oil and also Murphy’s Irish Stout. Could this be what they wanted? They looked at me and asked again something about Murphy and whether I was part of an event, “you know … do you have a map?” Again, I was stumped. Was this a test? I recall my instructions that if asked, I was not part of event, rather just out enjoying the day. Luckily, my synapses connected and I realized I had made it to CP4. Fish tandem soon followed and I expressed my doubts about finishing the race. This is not a race. However, the wonderful volunteers of CP4 pointed across the valley to the next peak saying that was the finish. The last checkpoint, get there, and then you can go home. You can do it. You can.

A huge thank you to CP4 for helping fish tandem and me put on the cape of courage and go on to the finish. We both stopped under Sir Frances Drake for a little pick me up and a chat with Murphy. I introduced myself and Murphy gave directions to CP5 and some unsolicited encouragement. “No one is going up to CP6, the second time bonus, if you go you can win this. You can win.” For a second, I thought, yes I could – if this was a race, which I don’t think it was – I could win. As I rode off and up Gunshot, Murphy called out, “You can Win!!!!”

I would love to tell you that crushed it up Gunshot, and then set the bonus time lap record taking the overall win. But I can not, and I did not. I did not win, but I did finish. I climbed, and walked and climbed some more. Though exhausted, reaching CP5 I felt great. I felt alive, happy. I was all smiles, as I started my descent onto the pavement and through the familiar Marin towns. I pushed it hard into Sausalito, where to my surprise fish tandem passed me despite him arriving first at CP5. He dropped me at a light in Sausalito and I lost contact over the bridge so I stopped to check directions to the finish. After a few more wrong turns and a couple more hundred feet of climbing (including a set of stairs on the back of Lone Mountain) I finished. Beer and pork in hand I communed with my fellow riders but then it was home for me. This was not a race. I am not a bike racer.

That night I extolled my achievement, the hardest day on a bike for me, ever. Mentally and physically there were a number of times when I was ready to quit. But I continued. “Would you do it again?” No. Too hard, too many bumps. I was wiped.

The next day, after I had time to think about it, I changed my mind, and said that I would do it again. Yeah there were bumps, but only on the hills. I could handle it.

And then the next day, after I had some more time to think about it, not only would I do it again, I wanted to do it again. I wanted to beat my time, beat my friend’s time, beat your time and maybe, just maybe win it. I could win it, after all, it’s not a race and I am not a bike racer.

http://www.strava.com/rides/82842

Onward and ...

2010-03-22T13:09:00.000-07:00

If a panda roars, and you don’t hear it, does it make a noise? Yes. Although cross season finished, the pandas continue to ride into the sunset. First and foremost, at the Post Season Panda Pigout, the team gathered to eat, drink and socialize while wearing something other than lyrca on our legs and dirt on our teeth. The night’s winner was Kate taking the first annual Hele Dag Award for all day commitment to the pandas with Mike’s bread and my pork following close behind. A big congratulation to all you make cross season what it is.

Meanwhile on the bikes:
While Mark was out mixing it up with the NorCal roadies at Chileno Valley for Hopper glory; Chris, Christine, Jeremiah and Julie were “training” for the Death Valley century. When the big day arrived, the training helped us go hele dag. We road the fast train for the first 10 miles or so, before toning it down to arrive at the first reststop. We made good timing, working with a couple of other riders until I suffered a puncture. The mini pump I bought Julie for her stocking did not have the umf needed to get me back up to acceptable PSI, however a quick shot of CO2 made up the difference and not a moment too soon as the gnats took a strong interest in our position and riders were passing us at an unacceptable rate. The next feed station, had PB&J before the climb, I found it nice and mellow despite putting in 45+ miles up to that point. Other pandas did not like the long straight incline, preferring the switchback of Old La Honda, or the Alpe d’Huez . I am not sure they have their priorities in line. The day wore on, as each panda taking strong pulls in the front. The scenery was dramatic, colors ranging from the desert red/orange rock formations on our east to the blue snow capped mountains on our west, separated by a vast flat desert floor – often reflecting the blue mountains. Although not a race it is always nice to compare (and compete) finishing in around 33rd place (or so) with a time of 7:37. What I learned from my first century: Bring a frame pump; 10 hours is a long time to drive; 7 hours plus is a long time in the saddle; paceline = good idea; communicate. Here is the ride - http://www.strava.com/rides/79629

Finally, this last weekend I rode SF Enduro II, perhaps the hardest day in the saddle for me to date. More on that later, but for now you can check out the ride at strava - http://www.strava.com/rides/82842

Hopper Haiku

2010-02-01T11:56:00.000-08:00

winter’s wet hopper:
embrocate, butter and lube.
willow creek – no mas.

http://www.strava.com/rides/67787

Hele Dag

2010-01-14T08:20:00.001-08:00

For some the cross season is over, for others nothing is over until they say its over. Panda strongman, Mark "Hele Dag" Shaw continues to show his race form into the peak season taking 8th up the San Bruno Hill CLimb and a silver medal at CXSR Galvin Park.

photo credit veronika lenzi

Although some of the other pandas spent the holidays getting "zacht en vet", don't put your cross bikes away just yet. While the Shack and Team Sky head into the season kissing wallabees, pandas are putting together their most agressive spring campaign to date. Of course there is the Hopper Series (Old Caz - 1/30/10), but what about Copperopolis and Leesville Gap? What about an Etape ToC? What about Death Valley and La Pyreneenne? Can you feel me?

BASP Champion

2009-12-07T09:19:00.002-08:00

"Ik wil snel gaan."

Pandas in the Park

2009-12-01T12:29:00.000-08:00

Pandas fielded their strongest team this weekend, with 8 riders competing in three different categories. Chris got the most “vertical” with not only a win at Golden Gate, but also taking the BASP leader’s jersey for Master 35+ Bs. With one more race left in the series, CCCP will see Chris defend his top spot from the likes of the lads from Berkeley Bike Club and Sycip. The real question is whether Chris will keep his porn star good looks, finding strength in his mustache ala Samson, or will good taste and hygene prevail? Either way, should be a good showdown that you won’t want to miss. Also in the 35+ Bs, Mark again proved why he is the panda strongman, stringing out the field to take the hole shot. Mark kept the speed up during the race as he made another trip to the podium, claiming 3rd for the day and 4th in the series.

For me, I started the race at the back, I mean way back. The back of the back. According to Julie, about nine places from last place. That would put me at about 81st place going into the first turn. No gentleman’s slide for me today, I was in for some work (VdB: Good, you need to work you luie vet koe.) So I started to work and after the first lap, I had moved up to about half place, where I stayed until lap 3ish. Coming into the backside, word came out that a rider was down in the sand. I approached the sand, cautious and staying left to avoid the downed rider and his attendees. I guess I strayed too far left and smacked a tree with my shoulder. (VdB: Not only luie vet koe, dom onhandig mestkever!) Knocked off my bike, more embarrassed than hurt, I tried to regain my position. However forced to run that section until the gradient eased, I gave up perhaps ten spots, never to be regained. I finished strong (that is what you say when you do not win – you finished strong) and stayed competitive to the line finishing 53rd. Greg finished shortly thereafter in 62nd.

In other races, VdB was pleased with the pandas, though they could still use some work he said. While Christine continued to flex her muscles in the women’s Cs, 2nd place behind the series leader, the Men’s C field saw panda after panda cross the line (Dave -27th, Mike W – 45th, and Mike S – 97th).

“We raced well today, the pandas suffered. Their faces, their teeth were marked with dirt. Their legs, spent. They worked hard. In the end, Chris was first, the rest were last. Nu naar huis en eet je in poedervorm donuts en drink je bier met een rietje.” - VdB

Een Frite Zonder Mayo, A Tale of Two Pandas

2009-11-15T10:58:00.000-08:00

photo credit SWoo

For one panda, the pinnacle of the sport - the top step of the podium. For another panda, a late night visit to the emergency room. Pandas started BASP No. 3, Sierra Point with Christine taking a 6 second lead into the bell lap. Unlike her last race, her bike held up to the added pressure as she motored away to take the checkered flag. Chapaeu!

Away in Europe, Dave missed his call up for Men's C, but Wolfe and Shwe took to the course, representing the pandas to solid placings.

Chris and Mark were ready for their callups at the Master 35+ Bs while I lined up in the pack. A crowded first lap kept the speed down for us in the mid pack, until a second (or third) lap crash saw me slip down the pack and finish a lap down from the leader. Chris took third, while Mark finished strong despite a sticky rear wheel.

Stephen was not so lucky. He crashed at the same spot I did, but unfortunately he was unable to return to the course and officially DNF. VdB was first to the scene, and recalls,

"I saw the blanca kit, white thigh with a strip, 'pandas.' My gaze followed the smart looking kit to see the sweat soaked mustache of Stephen. Dear Lord I thought, he has been making kissy faces with the ground again. But this time the kissy face was serious, een frite zonder mayo."

A trip to the ER confirmed a broken collarbone. Een frite zonder mayo indeed.

Panda Meet Monkey

2009-11-10T12:40:00.000-08:00

Bike monkey, bikemonkey! The lads and lasses at Bikemonkey put on some great events (check out the Hopper) and CXSR is no exception.

Pandas took Master Bs by storm at CXSR this past weekend with Shaw ripping it up on a short coarse for the silver in 35+ Bs. Donahue started off well until an unseen bump caused his brakes to permanently brake. Despite this challenge, he was able to gets some assistance in the pits and continue the race. Rounding out the pandapodium was Dave taking third in 45+ Bs. Overall a fun and fast course - three minute laps, a race announcer providing authentic Belgian color commentating, beer tent and podium girls ensured this race was not only rider friendly, but fan friendly as well. Can’t wait to see what they do with the Cow Palace!

Johnson: Whew, great race! That was fun – super fast on the backside.

VdB: So superfast then why you finish on the backside of the pack?

Johnson: Whoa VdB, that’s uncalled for. I was going for dollar grabs, and there were some technical sections near the bridge. Beside, the official results are off, I was not counted on a lap. Had a great time out there, gave it my all.

VdB: I know, they sent some of it back saying it smelled like oude gymzaal sokken uit een scheet gezicht slak. Now go get me a beer, I think you can manage since there are no barriers leading up to the tent.

Check out the following photographs by Veronica Lenzi, Through My Eyes Photography (also check out her photographs from other local norcal events)

http://www.veronikalenzi.com/CXSRYouthCenter110709.php

Next week – Sierre Point, Disco under the lights!

Taking it Down to Surf City

2009-11-02T21:59:00.000-08:00

Always gaining, but never catching. Stephen had Chris in his sights until ...

Say that five times over, and you have Stephen's race report. While some cry "Foul" and others "Cry Havoc, and let slip the Gods of War!" Stephen mumbled the appropriate curse and continued his pursuit. However, with each nonscheduled dismount, VdB's consternation rose. "Donahue! Quit making kissy faces with the dirt and ride schoon als achterkant van een non!" Despite an unhealthy affinity with the ground, Stephen finished 10th in the open Bs, with Chris leading the pandas at 8th place. Mark again proved to be panda strongman with another dubble taking 16th and 9th over the two days.

photo credits - swoo (http://www.flickr.com/photos/swoo/sets/72157622580230217/)

Still Last

2009-10-26T12:40:00.000-07:00

With one lap to go, Christine had the lead. Later that afternoon she pushed her bike to Mojos. In between – cyclocross.

Vertical Pandas BASP No. 2, Coyote Point. Christine powered away to create some space, taking the lead into the final lap. However, with a RockLobster closing, Christine’s real derrailuer had to abanon the race. That is to say, it broke. True to BASP’s promotional materials, everyone finishes with the help of Cannondale neutral bikes, but the damage had already been done. Although she missed the podium, she finished a respectable 6th.

Which is less than I can say for me. I bounced around and skidded. I was worried that my rear tire could be loosing air, when all it (and I) were loosing was time and places. In the end I finished 54th. Afterwards I speculated that I was running too low a pressure, a mistake not to be committed twice. Despite my luke warm performance, the course was solid and I look forward to returning. Chris and Mark enjoyed pandapodium, battling with the likes of Sycip, Berkeley Bike Club and HUP United to finish 2nd and 4th respectively.

Here are some good pics of the epic battle -

http://www.flickr.com/photos/swoo/ /

Although not all pandas were wearing white, Dave and Mike rode well, taking 28th and 82nd in Men’s C respectively. Dave then abandoned his bike for the camera, taking some great photos, including an expose on comparison dismount techniques.

In the end, it was Chris who proved to be the fastest panda, reciveing a congratulatory pat on the back from VdB, "Good race Donahue, but remember you still finished last."

als je niet eerste bent,

bent u het laatst

Come Play in the Sand

2009-10-22T09:47:00.001-07:00

Ruddervoorde last year.

BASP this year!

http://pilarcitos.com/CP_notes.htm

Oh yeah, look for pandas in the new blanca kits!

Pandas Roar at Lions of Fairfax

2009-10-20T16:27:00.000-07:00

Start of Men's C

Arriving 15 minutes before the start of my race, I heard the MC announce results from earlier in the day, “Alexander Shwe, fourth place.” Ahhh, Pandapodium!

Up and Over Mike

I pinned up my jersey, number on the left, and previewed the course. Although unable to match Shwe the younger, Mike and Dave remained competitive (37th and 6th respectively) which is more than I can say for myself. A flat with three laps to go saw me run the last half of the course to finish 2 down, DFL.

Crusing home on a flat
VdB: Keep running!
Me: That’s it, I’m done, official said I’m done.
VdB: Official?!?!?!? He blows his whistle like dronken schildpad. You’re not done yet. Keep running! Run!!!!

Talking about finishing strong, Shaw also provided some pandapodium taking 5th. Did he do the dubble on Sunday ? Not sure, come on out to BASP next week and ask him yourself. He is sure to be sporting the new panda blanca.

Shaw on the Corners

I Said, Don't Panick

2009-10-12T12:30:00.000-07:00

photocredit: Swoo

Despite fatigue early in the season, Sven Nys celebrated his first win of the season in Ruddervoorde. Similarly, Pandas showed good form this past weekend despite (fatigue, hungover, gopher bites, belgium fried sandwiches, etc. ...) with Shaw doing the dubble (9th at Livermore and 4th at Surf City) and the Donahue brothers (Stephen 17th in Mens' B after a rear tire mechanical and Chris taking an impressive 2nd place in Mens b 35+).

Next up, Lions of Fairfax this Saturday.

All These Laps, Dirt, Hills And Barriers Are Making Me Tired

2009-10-09T11:46:00.000-07:00

Now I have something in common with pros -

From Cyclingnews -

"Sven Nys (Landbouwkrediet-Colnago) has blamed fatigue for his poor showing in the early cyclo-cross races of this season. Just days before the first Gazet van Antwerpen Trophy round, a major money-spinner for European ‘cross riders, Nys says he’s not panicking about his results since the season commenced in mid-September."

I can see it now, finishing a lap down and not contesting the sprint for 73rd place:

VdB: Johnson, what happened? Why are your ridding like my vet schoonmoeder?

JJ: Sorry. I guesse I was just tired.

VdB: Tired!?!? Tired? U bent een dikke trage ezel !!!!!

JJ: Whoa ... take it easy VdB, don't panick. I mean I was really tired. More like fatigued.

Top ten other acceptable excuses for riding like a vet traag ezel :

1) sniffles

2) hungover

3) still drunk

4) taking it easy for tommorrow's group road ride

5) just didn't feel like it

6) its a glandular problem

7) other riders taking your line

8) saving it for the last lap

9)groundhog bit your tire, made it flat

10) stopped for a beer and a fried belgium sandwich at the top of the run up.

Technically, It's Hard

2009-10-05T11:14:00.000-07:00

“We all can’t be winners, but each of you can be a loser.”
- Ricky van de Bobke

After previewing the course the night before, I sat in the back of an open hatch back, enjoying a Leffe Blonde and talking strategy with Nora Pants and DS van de Bobke. “It’s going to be technical,” van de Bobke said.
“And hard,” Nora Pants added.

True to the expert’s predictions, BASP No. 1, McLaren Park, provided a technically hard race sporting the biggest run up in all of NorCal, a snaking steep downhill, and two long climbs up the backside. Despite the challenge the course would provide, VP fielded the largest group of athletes and supporters to date, all of whom ensured a successful day at the cross course, regardless of placing.

But it is a race, so placing is important. The good news is that VP enjoyed high placements in a number of categories. First up, women’s C saw Fox shoot off the line and charge to second up the run up. She looked strong and could contest the overall lead until a handlebar, pole, tape incident held her up. Despite losing over a minute untangling her bike, Fox motored upward and onward to a solid top 10 finish.

Men’s C saw cross rookie Gillis take to the line for the first time, making good on earlier promises. Solid placing, 81st out of a huge field of 107. Dave Sams, VP friend finished 40th and also provided VP with some early pics.
Men’s master Bs saw confusion and chaos, both on and off the course. What we do know is that Shaw rode an extra lap and Jeremiah can glue tubular tyres. What is still pending: who finished where? (not literally, of course we all know that we finished at the line, but what place?). According to eye witness accounts, both Mark and Chris finished in the top 10 and Jeremiah did not get lapped, and Shwe proved extremely photogenic.
Despite the uncertainty of the outcome of the men’s master Bs, the women’s Bs lined up with another cross rookie, Cheryl, taking her place in VP black. Piper and I encouraged the field with leg swinging dance moves to the techo pop, “Let the music move you!” And move them it did, with Cheryl taking an official 9th place (though she may have ridden an extra lap as well?)

Finally, young Stephen took the line, men’s B. Not quite yet a master, Stephen raced to 9th place.

If a panda races in the woods, but no one is around to watch, does the panda make a noise? Fortunately you may never need to know the answer to that because of the huge turn out of vertical fandas. The beer, sweets and sandwiches took second place to the friends out enjoying the autumn morning. Technically McLaren Park is hard, but as a member of Team Beer said to me “That’s cross.”

Per Strava –

http://strava.com/rides/40231

vertical flanders

2009-10-03T06:42:00.000-07:00

At Least You Suffered

2009-09-16T21:57:00.000-07:00

So it has begun. Cyclocross. Lapping the course –

1) Full gas, all out, keep up with the front;
2) recover, stay where you are;
3) battle self doubt, why am I here? Quit. Just Quit.
4) Repeat No. 3.
5) After this, the bell lap.
6) Full gas, again.

September in NorCal Cyclocross means Livermore. The course is flat, fast and can be dangerously hot. Mark braved the first race of the season, lining up with fit roadies coming off their peak season to take a solid 10th after a late in the race crash. Last week saw rain showers dampening the coarse, teasing the racers of muddy dreams while still delivering dust, just less of it.

Mark got off with the Bs, racing to a strong 5th place taking vertical pandas’ second podium spot of the season (Alex battled back from a slow start to take second in the K7-10!) Mike and I started 30 seconds back, now Master 35+ Bs. I raced well, despite a hacking cough taking 18th. I felt good in the first lap, staying with the tip top boys, but faded. I needed to turn on the gas a bit more, and push a bigger gear if I want to get results that will impress Directeur Sportif Van De Bobke (VdB). After the race, all VdB could say was, “At least you suffered.” True that.

As powered by STRAVA -

http://www.strava.com/rides/35501

Are You Ready?

2009-08-30T07:58:00.000-07:00

Summer is nearly over, the kids are heading back to school and for a hardy few the change of leaves means cyclocross season will soon be here. Vertical Pandas is looking forward to a strong season of beer and podium spots, perhaps even a win. New kits (blanca) are in store, as well as a few new riders on the team.

The official racing begins in Livermore next weekend, September 5 followed by Central Coast on September 20. BASP starts October 4 at McLaren Park. Are you ready?

La Ruta Loca Randonee

2009-07-14T15:26:00.000-07:00

A Tale Of Love And Betrayal In Three Parts

I. Morning

When your day begins before sunrise and involves smearing a healthy schlock of homemade embrocation to your legs you know you are in for something interesting. Today, July 11, 2009, I ride La Ruta Loca Randonee (aka LRLR, aka “The Crazy Route” - http://bike.duque.net/invite-to-2009-200k-LRLR.htm). What began three years ago as a smidgen of riders tackling Marin’s toughest roads has grown into a smattering of riders still willing to tackle those same roads. As one described, “dedicated cycling enthusiasts with a nose for pain.” Perhaps one day the ride will equal D2R2 (see www.franklinlandtrust.org/randonee.htm see also www.rapha.cc/d2r2 ) in notoriety and rider participation, but for now it is only for a brave a few. Nevertheless, LRLR certainly shares the same pedigree = 126 miles, 15,000 feet of elevation gain. Oh, did I mention most of the climbing occurred on Marin fire roads. That’s dirt for you layman. My ride: Soulcraft, red. My kit: vertical panda, black. My story, simple:

The roll out was foggy and wet, the joints holding the Golden Gate Bridge together were slick. We climbed together as a group up Hawk Hill (Conzleman Road) and made a cautious descent into the valley below. However, the day’s second categorized climb up Bobcat Trail began the weeding out process: three strong - three stronger. After another cautious descent into Tennessee Valley, we turned our bikes toward the mighty Pacific and began the day’s work.

II. All Day Riding

Coastal Fire Road – it's dirty and steep and the reality of our day’s task set in. A climber’s tool box is equipped with different tools to help him or her up the climb. For a large majority of the day, we were without an essential tool – out of the saddle climbing. A combination of gearing, gradient and grit would cause a spin out if one attacked. As such, simply sit down and pound it out no matter how steep, how long or how loose. Easier said then done, but done nonetheless. Another cautious descent into Muir Beach with Ernesto taking the lead to take some pictures of Charles and I descending to the sands below. The fog was lifting and the Pacific called, “come, relax by my calming waves. Stick your toes in the surf and sand. Read a book, sip a cool drink. Ahhhhh, be happy, don’t worry.” No. Not for us, not today, we turned our back to this temptress and headed inland. And up.

Mount Tamalpais. We started our first ascent of Mount Tamalpais from the east, Deer Park Fire Road. The cue sheet said “loooong climb.” Although the gradient was more relaxed, the first real rays of sun saw a split in the three strongmen and the day’s order was decided before it really began. Charles rode away leaving Ernesto and me to fight for last place (“Onthouden als u niet eerst uw laatste” roughly translated “Remember if you are not first, you're last.” Ricky van de Bobke.) We arrived at the first “control” (Pantol Station) at 8:25, making the official unofficial cutoff time (8:32). Given the nature of the ride we were simply a few happy chappies satisfied with just riding our bikes.

Ernesto and I continued on and up Mt. Tam, turning onto Rock Spring Lagunitas Road. We would ride together, split, pass each other and ride together some more. Ernesto was kind enough to stop every so often to allow me to catch up as he picked up his water bottle that had shaken loose from the long descent to Lake Lagunitas. I felt like the turtle chasing the hare. We arrived at our next control at Five Corners intersection at 9:40 – off by four minutes that could easily been made up if we didn’t stop a couple of times to check the map (or pick up water bottles.) This was the only control that I did not make the time.

The rest of the morning provided a series of times and places - heading to Alpine Damn, passing all the roadies coming from Seven Sisters; struggling with the ups and downs of Bolinas Ridge Trail; working together on the smooth asphalt of Hwy 1 to motor into Point Reyes Station for lunch. At Black Mountain Cycles ( http://blackmountaincycles.blogspot.com/ )(59 miles) we checked in at 11:52 and learned that Charles was about 30 minutes ahead. Mike (from Black Mountain Cycling) was kind enough to offer a drink from his fridge, and happily I grabbed a Coca-Cola (though I really wanted to kick up my heals and help myself to a cold beer.) Instead, I had lunch at Bovine Bakery (www.savorcalifornia.com/template1.php?id=196&img=2 ) a well stocked carb shop for bikers in the need for that sort of thing. Eating right outside the bakery on the raised cement sidewalk with about 35 other bike riders I felt good. I looked around and realized how dirty I was compared to the other cyclists. Double fisting ice teas, a bite of cookie, a bite of pizza, a gulp of air, breathe and repeat.

It should be noted that Point Reyes Station provides a perfect turn around spot for San Francisco cyclists looking to put in some miles. There are a number or routes (out and back, loops) that will take you there and return. Aside from the refreshment factor (baked goods a plenty) the roads to and fro are choc full of cyclists. A nice 80ish mile loop. But for me, I had another sixty plus to go.

I pretty much rode solo back to civilization via the Cross Marin Bike trail and Sir Frances Drake. Chipping a way at a steady clip I rode up on a familiar kit – Team Ramuzzi! (When cycling near Greve, Italy I discovered Ramuzzi and my yellow cap was acquired. If you go, make sure you ride the bianca strada www.eroica.it/index_en.php ) Bidding him good cheer I tipped my yellow and blue chapeau, “Forza Ramuzzi!” And just like that he was gone. At Fairfax I made my way through the Marin hamlets – San Anselmo, Ross, Kentfield, Larkspur. And then a Paradise loop.

Yup – a full Paradise loop. Enough said about that.

I arrived at Café Acri in Tiburon at 14:30 (93 miles). I ordered a ham and cheese croissant and two Italian sodas – one orange and one lemon – and enjoyed the sidewalk seating (La dolce vita?) The tourists (or Marinites?) were stylishing sipping their afternoon coffees, nibbling on a little something sweet as I, sweaty and grimy, macked on a ham and cheese croissant while guzzling soda. As I was leaving, a lady visiting her son was nice enough to point out that I had a piece of napkin stuck to my face. Huh –I used a napkin? Fancy that. I thanked her, wiped my face with my dirty leather gloved hand thinking about the futility of the act. Pulling away I saw Ernesto, however on a ride of this length and difficulty there is no waiting. All I wanted to do was finish. Get on your bike and get your ass up the last two climbs of the day (I had purposely told myself that the last climb should not be counted because I would be so relieved once I got there.)

I rode onto Mill Valley and started the second ascent of Mt. Tam for the day – this time from the west. Around half way up Old Rail Road Grade I started to tire. That is to say, I struggled. Struggled with my hand position, struggled to keep a reasonable cadence, struggled to think about something other than my legs. But wasn’t this what the bike ride was all about? Struggling?

I passed West Point Inn at 16:13 (106 miles) and made my way home. The descent from Pantol is one of my favorites, not too technical and spectacular scenery. Despite my fatigue, the descent still did not fail to please. I passed Four Corners and continued down to the stop sign. A quick right and then a left back onto Miwok Trail.

III. Morte

Fuck. There I said it. Its one thing to grind your way up a mountain, its another thing to turn right into a dirt wall. I pushed, strained until I stopped. So I walked, no big deal. I have learned through cyclocross that whatever it takes, it takes – just keep moving. So I did, I kept on moving.

I rolled back through Miwok stables and up over Marichello Road to Tennessee Valley. Another climb, the Golden Gate Bridge and then ... Well then I stopped. 12 hours and twenty minutes after I started I stopped.

Epilogue

There is a certain mentality to racing and people seem to understand it. Being competitive is a characteristic trait that is accepted, and even admired by many. But when you are not “racing” your reasons for suffering begin to be questioned – both by yourself and others. I do not have the answer yet, but will keep asking and hope you will to. Keep riding, keep struggling and keep living.

RIDE DETAILS (per Strava - http://www.strava.com/rides/6273 )

Location San Francisco, CA
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Stats: 126.7 miles, 11:04:16 riding time, 14965 feet total climbing
Speed: (avg/max) 11.4 mph / 40.8mph
Performance: 134.3 watts, 144 bpm

I'll Have What He's Having ...

2009-04-21T14:43:00.000-07:00

The cyclocross racer enjoys many advantages over his more indolent peers. With beer in hand or scotch underfoot, the cyclocross racer takes pleasure in gobbling up the fistfuls of eye candy (bikes not racers) making the laps to the tune of the cow bells. One piece of eye candy of particular sweetness found here in California is the cyclocross rig from Hunter Cycles (http://www.huntercycles.com/ ). Now I have never ridden a Hunter, but they appear to be a beautiful combination of form and function. The slender and curvaceous wishbone stays not only purr “I’m sexy …” but also scream “I’m gona kick your ass.” With that said, it appears that the boys from Rapha agree. Check out the Hunter built for Rapha’s Continental:

http://www.rapha.cc/continental/index.php?page=787

Oh my.