'Tis the season....

To slack on blogging apparently. It seems that when the temps drop, the riding slows. And when the riding slows, the posts get farther and fewer in between. Hopefully we can rectify that a bit. So, here is the big news from the past few weeks.

I am extremely proud to yet again be a part of the High Gear/Trek racing team. Sponsorship has changed a bit this year and I for one couldn't be happier about it. For immediate details check out the High Gear Website. I will soon be making some edits on this page to add these wonderful new partners.

Secondly, you should be checking The Adventure Monkey daily. Issue 3 of the magazine is out and can be yours for only a dollar. That's right, it's the monkey store dollar menu. Pick up a pair of socks and a t-shirt while you're at it. Or you can head down to high gear and cash in some gift certificates you may have recently received and get some monkey gear.

And yes, we do occasionally get the troops out when the sun is shining.



We had over 20 riders on the trail that day. Hey, hopefully we can get some folks out for a New Year's Day ride? Come on folks!

Big things from the monkey

That's right, first and foremost go to theadventuremonkey.com to check out the online store. Christmas is coming up, so load up on Adventure Monkey goodies for you and your loved ones. Secondly, Issue #3 of the greatest magazine in publication will be out soon. It can be found on the website as well. And finally, get yourself psyched up for more Adventure Monkey touring as we prepare for two Flint Hills Tours next year. Dates will be announced soon, but expect one in the spring and one in the fall, so make sure to clear your calendar for at least one of those weekends. As always, check in frequently for new happenings!

Socks!

These socks are taking the world by storm! You can get a pair from High Gear in Emporia, KS or check theadventuremonkey.com frequently as the online store will be up soon. You need these socks!

Freedom Ride

A beautiful day for a 35 miler in the Flint Hills. Unfortunately for me I missed the boat early and had to settle for 3rd. Had an amazing time though. Here is a picture of the winners:

Sunday Ride

No spooking for me on Halloween, but I couldn't have asked for a better day. Headed into town early to see my babies before they went off trick-or-treating for the evening. Then headed down to the shop to join up with some heavy hitters from the Emporia area for a group ride, 7 of us in all. The weather was perfect albeit a bit windy. We had the tailwind for the first half of the ride, but kept the tempo pretty calm knowing that we would have to turn back into it to get home. It was indeed a tough journey back and the wind spread out the group a bit. I needed the hard effort though. After the ride Randy and I settled in for the evening and watched a movie to cap off our Halloween. Looking forward to a pretty calm week, but make sure you join us for the Freedom Ride Gravel Road Race!

Are you kidding me!?

I know I'm a bit behind on this, so maybe you've already seen it. I mean, it was posted last month for crying out loud. But, I just now watched the trailer for Race Across the Sky 2010 and was absolutely blown away. It doesn't help that I have a problem. My name is LeLan...and I'm addicted to bikes. So, take two minutes out of your day, watch this, and then go ride your bike...

..preferably at the freedom ride on November 7th here in the fantabulous founding city of veterans day - Emporia!

Class

You'll be glad to know that the rim is looking okay. It's taken a lot of dings over the years running tubeless anyways and it's in the same great ol' shape it always has been. (Nevertheless I do not recommend riding on the rim and fully expect that next time I will take my losses and walk it in!)

More importantly, I will be instructing a mountain bike class at ESU next spring! That's right, somebody has to take these difficult classes and it might as well be me. The other good news is I already have 3 people signed up! Hey, I was just hoping to have one person. It seems we're on the right track here. Now I get to spend my time planning all of our riding adventures! Oh yeah, and there will be some learning going on of course! ;)

And once again I will make the reminder that the Freedom Ride is coming up in just under 3 weeks (November 7th.) There will be a 15 mile ride and a 35 mile race. But, don't fear, if you want to do the 35 mile distance without racing that is fine as well. There is also a 5k run/walk for all you runners/walkers out there. Come join us for some gravel fun!

Choices

So, I hate to admit it, but all this reading in my leadership class is paying off. I had an amazingly frustrating time at the Clinton 3/6 hr race this past Saturday.

First off though, where have all the mountain bikers gone!? So what cross is here. You've got an entire winter for that stuff. You folks have been missing some beautiful mountain bike weather. There aren't much of those left this year you know.

Okay, back to the race. All the books are telling me, and I certainly believe that we must choose our attitudes. A lot of things went wrong at Clinton for me, but there is no sense in getting angry or even quitting. The first lap went fine, rode near the front and was feeling decent. The Toros have been an amazing tire for me, but it is sad to say that after a year and a half they need replaced. Flat number one came on lap 2 as I ripped the rear tire open on a rock. I wasted my first CO2 discovering that Stanz wouldn't seal it. No problem, I'll just throw in the spare tube I've got. Used up the second and final CO2 on that. And of course, that means shortly there after I pinch flatted. Okay, getting a little ticked, but I've got my pump, so let's just patch it and go. Oh wait, Dustin borrowed my patch kit last weekend and I never put it back with my supplies. Fail. Okay, no quitting so I could either run it in or ride it in. Sure, the smart thing to do would have been to run. But, frustration led to riding on the rim. Yes, fully aware this is damaging, but I was not happy and this was much faster, albeit very energy draining.

Got back to the start line and saw that there was still an hour left before the 3 hour mark. At this point I could have packed it up and called it a day, but dang it I had paid my money. The sun was out and there was some fantastic trail action that I hadn't got enough of. I put on a smile, took my sweet time changing the tire and went out for another lap. The last lap was fun. Sure my race was over, I was well out of contention for any placing, but that didn't matter. I had fun on my bike.

Now to go check on that rim!

Look at us ma, front page!

That's right. You know you've made it big when you are front page news in the Osage County Herald-Chronicle. Thanks to Wayne for a great write up and once again to all the racers who came. Now, read the article and then continue to tell everyone you know how much fun you had.

And oh yeah, get yourselves ready for the Freedom Ride on Sunday Nov. 7th. This year the 35 mile route will serve as a competitive race. I know that is a short distance for a lot of you gravel grinders, but come on out and sprint it out anyways!

Weekend Fun

It was a fantastic race day this weekend as we had great weather and fun for the Riverfront MTB Race and Cam took home the SS victory at Moab. You can read all about that here. Big thanks to Matt at High Gear and the Friends of the Trail. And of course all the riders who came out and supported the event!

Riverfront Race

Is this Sunday! Info can be found here:

riverfrontmtbrace.blogspot.com

Be there!

This Weekend

Okay, feeling a little bit back on track. I was nearly thinking about nixing the whole blogging thing there for a minute. But, I suppose it is a good outlet whether or not anyone is actually reading it.

But, for those of you that are....this weekend there will be much fun to be had at Melvern. On Sunday Oct. 3rd (this Sunday!) we will be meeting at the Melvern trails (in Melvern, not the lake) at 2pm to do some race course pre-riding. The trail is always open for riding, but will not be marked for the race until the day prior. So, come on out and get a taste of what the course will be like!

I know, I've been bad.

Well, life happens sometimes. And then you don't blog as much as you would like. So, hopefully these pictures will make you smile.


I made it back up to NY this past weekend for the Livestrong retreat at Frost Valley. It was beautiful!


Oh how I miss this view.


Stopping for some native plum's on the very first Adventure Monkey Tour. Now that was a wonderful weekend. Look for more of these next year!


The kind of beautiful views you can expect. This was taken after the Adventure Monkey himself revealed all he knows about photography!

And now for a look ahead. Riverfront MTB race on Oct. 10th. Be there. Find more information at: riverfrontmtbrace.blogspot.com

News

You may heard the rumors, but now it is a reality. The first ever mtb race at the riverfront park in Melvern, KS. We were asked to put on this race by the town of Melvern and when we went and rode these trails we were thoroughly impressed. Check this website for all race information:

riverfrontmtbrace.blogspot.com

We would greatly appreciate if you would pass this info along and help spread the word. So, please post this link to your blog and start telling everyone you know. This is a race that you will not want to miss!

Upcoming Fun

Okay, you should already know about this, but Flint Hills Bike Tour on Sept 10th-12th. The Adventure Monkey and I are meeting up tonight to finalize ALL the details. So, be prepared to get some info on the happenings.

Secondly, get ready to add another mtb race to your calendar for early October. I know, always with the short notice, but when I decide to do something I get stuff done quickly. There is a new trail that you will not want to miss. More details to come on this early next week, so stay tuned!

Back in Kansas

Yes siree, back in Kansas. A bit of mixed emotions as I miss the folks back East, but certainly glad to be home. And of course I couldn't miss the croc rock race at Perry on my first weekend back. I was a little nervous with the high temps, I am certainly not used to it yet. But, I was able to pull out a second in my age group and was a pretty respectable distance from the overall winner. This was mostly due to Anne Marie's magnificent pit assistance. She saved me some valuable seconds! Everyone else did amazing as well, but you will have to read their blogs to get their scoop on the day.

Weekend Fun

I had the great pleasure of showing off the Catskills to Jim this past weekend. He is making the transition to Bethlehem and made the time to come up and join me for a race here in the mountains. The race course was a little tough, but extremely fun. However, they decided to shorten the race from 3 laps to 2 (I would have been happy with 3), so it wasn't too bad. The lap was 5 miles long and had a pretty substantial 900' of climbing in that short time (long and steep!). It was a great day on some great trails. I will say this though, from a race promotion stand point the midwest has been far better then anywhere I've been! And I am very much looking forward to returning to those races. Hmm...maybe even at Perry if I'm not too spent from all that driving.

In true Adventure Monkey fashion I will try and remember to plug the upcoming first ever Flint Hills Cyclo-Photography Tour Weekend every time I post. Just so you don't forget. And yes, we are still working on the name. But, at least you know what you would be in for. The date is the weekend of Sept. 10-12, so mark it now. More details on activities and pricing to come. Just know that it will be quite affordable and an amazing time!

Much going on

Well first and foremost there are some exciting things going on in the world of magazines. The magnificent issue 2 of Adventure Monkey Magazine is now out. You can find both issues of AM Magazine here. Secondly, XXC Magazine has dedicated an entire issue to the Dirty Kanza 200. A worthy honor for an amazing event! Check it out here. I've already got mine ordered!

I also have news that Adventure Monkey Tours is under way and set to roll out with the first Flint Hills Cyling photo-tour. The date is set for Sept 10-12th. Mark your calendars for now and official details will follow in the near future. This will be a great way to spend a weekend with good company, riding and photographing the Flint Hills.

And most excitingly for me, Jim Cummins may be headed up my way this weekend to take part in a little NE mtb racing. Can't wait!

Really? Really!?

Ah, those nice mountain summers right? Don't have to worry about that oppressive heat. Gimme a break, I just got done with a ride in which I had to wear a base layer and arm warmers. It's July 1st! I was told by an ol' timer that Frost Valley got its name because it would occasionally get frost in July. Our night time temps have been dropping down to the 40's so I guess it could be a real possibility! I found this little excerpt whilst doing some research: "minimum temperatures in the 30s do occur in July at least once every 10 years." I have to wear sweatpants and a hoodie, in July. Needless to say I am not happy about any of this.

recent rides

Did one of the hardest training rides to date yesterday. I rode 15 miles and it took me nearly 2 hours. 6 of the miles were entirely up hill. I rode three climbs that were right on two miles each and 1000+ ft of climbing each. Just those three climbs alone equalled 3,400 ft of climbing in just 6 miles. That's steep in case you were wondering!




This little cave was a nice feature in the race I did last Sunday. The trail was phenomenal.




Man those shorts and jerseys look sweet.

NE Racing

Did my first mtb race up here today. And I gotta give huge props to Cam and Shad who are out in Colorado ripping it up, because I am tanking over here in these little mountains. Had to (well, thought it would be wise to anyways) get a USA license. Had to start in Sport and thought I should be able to do pretty well. Wrong. Took 6th today in a deep and stacked sport class. They also had us youngsters start with the 30-39 class which aided in a fast start. The trail was phenomenal and I had a blast though. My legs are achin' now, but I'm already looking forward to the next race in about a month.

Trek 29ers

Gary Fisher inspired of course! Well, it happened. Can't say that I'm shocked, but I didn't expect this to happen so soon. I gotta say I love it. Gary Fisher is one inspirational fella who has the right attitude in my opinion about bikes. Just get on one and ride, whatever your reasons.

The Dawg

First and foremost congrats to the Adventure Monkey on completing the Dirty Kanza 200 and everyone else who attempted such a feat. It is no small task!

Also, I had a revelation yesterday. Full suspension bikes are nice. I went out to Woodstock yesterday for the weekly Thursday night road ride. When I got there the mood had been changed to a mtb ride. Since I didn't have my mtb, Billy from Overlook let me ride a loaner. An all-mountain, 5" of squishy goodness Kona Dawg. Not top of the line, but not a Wally World special either. But, this baby was the softest thing I have ever ridden. And the stories are true. The East Coast is rocky. Okay, yes, there are some trails in which you can get by with a Hard Tail out here on the East Coast. But, I can safely say that if I was staying out here, I would be getting a FS.

Good Luck my Friends!

Well, it is the eve of the Dirty Kanza 200 and this will be the first year that I will not be spectating or particpating. Nope, I won't be present and it pains me deeply. This event is truly special for a lot of reasons that start with the people behind it. So, good luck to everyone taking up the challenge tomorrow!

Team High Gear

Is representing! First off, look at this guy!



14th down at Lance's pad and this sweet photo on Cyclingnews. Big time I tell ya!

And in my first competition in the new kit I participated in a little triathlon. I joined a team and did the bike leg.



Tagging out to my good pal D-Hips. Maggie joined us for the swim and we were third out of the water, first off the bike, and first after the run. It was good fun.

Beauty

So yes, I do think Kansas is beautiful. But, dang, this is my weekly Thursday night ride.



Oh, and for a point of reference I live in the valley just on the other side of these little peaks. I've been going up to Woodstock on a pretty regular basis now and each time the route is different. But, inevitably we get a number of views of equal greatness. This past Thursday's ride was 50 miles of pure bliss. And to top if off, we finished at the bike shop with some waffles! Ah yes, the life indeed.

But wait, there's more! I once read in a magazine an article about an attempted corporate take over of some amazing trails in Northern Vermont known as the Kingdom Trails. Needless to say the trails won and are now 50+ miles of some amazing looking singletrack. (I will know for sure in about a week) So, let the jealousies continue and feast your eyes on what I will be riding in about a week's time. That's right, camping and riding, life is good.

And finally for some completely unrelated icing on the cake, watch this.

Enjoy

The Gravel Metric Invitation from OC Imageworks on Vimeo.

Volume

With the mtb races finally approaching for me (1 more month!) it was time to up the volume. Yes, even the traditionally shorter XC races will require more pedal time then these road races I've been doing. So, I set out with the task of riding 3-4 hours. I knew that unless I wanted to ride circles in front of camp I would have to ride off the mountain, which would be extremely fast and fun. But, also meant that I would be climbing my way back up the mountain to get home. So I opted for the easiest route possible, a stunningly beautiful ride down and around the Rondout reservoir. After reading the Monkey Man's latest post I see that it is quite possible to take some wonderful shots with my good ol' 'point and shoot.' However, I was all loaded up with food and water bottles and left the camera at home. I managed to ride 46 miles with 1800ft of climbing. That's 3x the amount of climbing you'd get in the same mileage on the Reading loop back home. I had one little scare on the ride when I flatted. I have been going back and forth on my bikes and had left my seat bag on the Superfly. Fortunately I flatted near my friend Tom's house and was able to get repaired and back on the road. Enjoyed the scenery around the reservoir and made the turn around. It would be all uphill now. I made it back to camp in 3 hrs 10 minutes, the longest I've been in the saddle all year. 

In the news

Okay, I know you are struggling to keep up with the high volume of posts in the past 24 hours, but this could not wait. Our beloved, and newly dubbed, "Prime Time" Matt Brown made himself a little tv appearance.

Watch it here. Go on, I'll wait.

I know, amazing right! Never mind they butchered most of the details. The fact is the DK 200 (and all the people involved with it) are worthy of such noteriety and I'm glad to see it happen.

Good timing

The beauty of the Delaware Water Gap area. (the river, not the state mind you)
Kate using the facilities in the ghost town.
Okay, so thank you Bobby for sending me my fancy new gear. You have no idea how much I needed this. For the first time in a long time I finally feel like I am still part of the group. I was having a mental block from training and this was just the right pick me up! 
Yes, I shamelessly modeled the new team uni using the timer on my camera. Don't judge me.

Recent Happenings

Eating french fries and gravy in Toronto. Umm.....I had much higher hopes. But still good of course.
The Maid of the Mist, getting soaked by lots of H2O.
Skull cookie. Enough said.

Also be sure to check out the two wonderful new links to the side. Matt and Steph have decided to join the blogosphere and are entertaining us with their life stories.

Round 2

Attempted another road race. Unfortunately I couldn't make it two for two. Got a little impatient and had to settle for second place. Lessons well learned. The course was a bit hilly with one KOM challenge. I took second on that as well. It did make me a little proud though when someone said I was crazy for racing on a heavy cross bike.

Would much rather be preparing for Wilson this weekend though. Good luck to everyone headin' out West!

MIA

Well, no racing for me this week, but I will resume action next Tuesday. The fella's seemed to have had a great time at Bone Bender and Mike even took home the 'W' in his class. Wish I could have been there teaming up with my business partner. Aaron was also racing in CA this weekend at Sea Otter. Congrats to just being there man! Here is a brief video I found of the start of Bone Bender. I also stalked down some photos. Go here for much more. Keep up the good work boys!

Cameron returning to a dress code we can appreciate. Thanks for paving the way good sir!
Typical Mike. Wide eyed (at least I assume under the glasses) and smiling from ear to ear.

Sir Wintle III. 'Nuff said.

First Race

After seeing that Kansas native Brian Jenson came up to the Tour of Battenkill and showed these East Coaster's how the boys from the midwest ride, I knew I would have to keep the Kansas winning streak going in my first attempt at a road race. Sure, my field may have been a little smaller, and it was Cat 4's and 5's, but I took home the win none the less. Tons of fun and I think I will do some more of this road racin' stuff.

Monkey Man on the Radio

Radio - Podcast's, what's the difference? The fact is there are people in the Kansas area doing great things. Eric Benjamin, better know as the monkey man is one of those said people. Look for great things to come from The Adventure Monkey. To hear some of those projects take a listen to his recent interview on the Kansas Cyclist podcast here.

And in case you missed it, catch up on Jim Cummins speaking of the DK 200 here.

What have I done!?

I never thought I would be at this point. When I first started riding I was certain I would not be wearing those spandex shorts. Well okay, they provide some padding for your rump, but I'll only wear them under my b-ball shorts. Okay, I'll wear the spandex, but I'll never shave my legs.

And yet here I am with perfectly smooth shaved legs. It's amazing what this sport will do to you. And yet, I continue to love it every day. I'm still not convinced on all the selling points of why one should shave there legs, but with so many people doing it I thought I would see what all the hype was about. Plus, I'm comfortable enough to answer the stares and q's that will inevitably be thrown my way. All I can say so far is....it feels nice.

Just wanted to remind you all of what my back yard looks like. A little bare still, but spring is coming...

Get your gravel on

I first saw this magnificent film about a year ago (or more?) thanks to Mr. Josh Patterson. It is magnificent. Hopefully it will inspire you to go do great things.

Lincoln, NE from RAPHA on Vimeo.

April No fools

Guess if I was clever enough I would have devised a hilarious prank post for you all yesterday. We can clearly see that didn't happen. I did freshen up the page a little with a new photo up top. Taken by none other then the adventure monkey himself. The ride itself was a bit brutal. I had certainly forgotten the wind. Eric calls it 'Kansas climbing.' All I know is it's hard work. Going into the wind provided us little opportunity for casual conversation. With my tum tum growling we made it into Olpe and refueled with what I am sure was high quality riding food from the gas station. With the wind at our backs we were able to hammer it home with the greatest of ease. About 40 miles for the day. A bit shorter then anticipated, but we got start considerably later then planned. 

While we were playing in the wind, a handful of High Gear faithfuls made their way down to Arkansas for the Ouachita Challenge. And as expected they had themselves a great time and turned out some great results. Aaron came home with a 3rd place finish, congrats good sir! 

Adventure Monkey

Check out the first of many wonderful magazines to come here. I'm starting to like this writing thing. For more great work from the creator of The Adventure Monkey Magazine click here.

Boredom

Boredom leads to a lot of time wasting on the computer. I did however, stumble upon this little beauty from last years Ouachita Challenge. Especially take note of the two handsome devils at 28 seconds. And then again, a good looking trio at 2:16. I'm a bit jealous I won't be making the trip again this year.

Jim

Have you met my friend Jim? He's pretty wonderful. Not only is he the fantastic promoter of one of the greatest events in all the land, but now he is a famous broadcaster on the interwebs. Check him out here.

Good news, Better news

mid 40s for this afternoon and the sun is shining. Couldn't be happier to be getting out on the bike this afternoon. But that's not the good news. In just two short weeks I will be back in Kansas for a 9 day visit. That leaves plenty of time for a couple of gravel grinders, so prepare to be making yourselves available for a ride! 

And yes, there is better news. Maybe not for Tim. I was recently accepted into Grad school at ESU and will be returning once again to Emporia this summer. I certainly couldn't be happier to return home! 

Back in Action

That's right boys and girls, I'm back. Apparently I had gotten lazy and just turned in to a weeny over the winter. Not that riding the trainer doesn't have it's value. It certainly kept me in shape all winter. But, I just couldn't take it any more. I had to ride outside no matter what. And so, I ventured out again yesterday in less then ideal conditions. The 'snowmaggedon' if you will, took it's toll on the area, but I was riding regardless. I put in 35 miles. Before you Kansas boys start shaking your heads, because I know you've been doubling that number, you need to realize that this was 35 miles of snow covered mountain passes (passes just sounds much cooler then roads). After giving it all I could to get up the snow covered dirt roads, it was all I could do to hang on down the backside. When I finally returned home I was exhausted and covered head to toe with sand and grime. My bike would need quite the clean up to be operational again (sorry, left the camera at home). And I couldn't have felt any better about it. So with two weeks to the day from my first race, I fully intend on riding outside whenever I can. Indoor training just can't compare. 

Well, the 'snowpocalypse' has graced us with 4 feet of snow. However, riding looks optimistic for Monday and Tuesday when I'm off. Upper 30s and sunshine. The roads should be good and clear by then as well. 

A beautiful winter wonderland. Not much visibility going on here. This is what I got to see when I stepped out of my office. Actually, I took this yesterday. Since this picture we added on another foot or two of snow.

It was a challenge to get up the path to my apartment. My blue jeans were soaked, I trudged a long way in some deep snow. The next morning was even worse. I couldn't even take this path as it was up to my chest!

My humble abode. 

Ah, the great outdoors

Yes I finally sucked it up. Sure, the winters are a bit rough up here, but mostly I've just been a weeny. The temps were in the low 30s and only a light flurry for precipitation. After seeing what the Adventure Monkey was riding in, I knew this would be no problem.

The sign my friends, reads: "Next 1 1/2 miles, Use Low Gear." That is for the semis. For bikers that means "Hold on for Dear Life." In fact, as I was blazing down the hill the tears streaming from my eyes were freezing to my cheek. Unfortunately, the only way to get home is back up the hill. A mile and a half of 8% grade and that is no fun no matter what the temps are. 

I did manage to stop and take a few photos along the way. The ice is beautiful here all colorful like.  
The Superfly wanted to stop and pose with the pretty ice. 

Sweet Video

Memory Lane

Ah yes, Super Bowl Sunday. I do plan on watching the game...at least for a bit. Maybe it will hold my attention until half time, then I might flip back towards the end to see who wins. No, these days I'm more interested in the kickoff of races such as the Tour of Qatar. Team Sky did have an impressive win. Although Radioshack was not present and no one is really fielding their 'A' teams. 

Anyways, the real reason for today's post was a trip down memory lane. While re-living the early days of High Gear cyclery I stumbled upon the profile of Emporia Legend Tim Mohn, which I highly recommend you take a peek at. I had forgotten how Tim and I were once bitter rivals . Take this quote from his page for example:

Why should someone take up cycling as a new hobby?s the perfect sport.

Cycling is the perfect sport.

Done by all ages.

Both sexes.

All races, nationalities and religions.

Big one’s, small one’s, even somewhat bald one’s (no offense Lelan).

I will ride till the day I die. And so can you.

Very funny Dr. Seuss. Yep, he spared no excuse at chopping away at my self esteem and I made sure to challenge his man hood whenever an opportunity would present itself. Which was basically every time I came into the shop. And now those days are gone. Distance has put an end to our 'love to hate each other' relationship. I can only imagine that in my absence, and lacking a suitable trash talker, he has fallen off the pace. But don't you worry Timmy. One day I shall return to speak slanderously of your name and challenge you to a bout of two-wheeled debauchery. 

In the meantime, enjoy this video. Particularly that handsome devil of a drummer.

(Click the picture for the video!)

 

Oh Tim, how I miss you, ya big galoot.

No Trails

I previously eluded to the notion that I would be riding outside this past Tuesday. Not only would I have the opportunity to ride outside, but sweet single track awaited me and the Superfly. I am here to tell you that journey never happened. Monday did bring in a warm front that would carry into Tuesday. Unfortunately it also brought a torrential down pour with it. Lame. Ah, just need to survive February it seems. First race kicks off March 16th and I may have very little outdoor riding time. But, it doesn't concern me too much at the moment since my good friend Tom and I have been getting in some quality trainer riding (Tom recently bought the three part CTS Climbing DVDs). 

A bit of randomness to get you through your day:

Meatloaf Hands!

Oh sweet victory.

I wish all my training rides ended like this.

My Adventure Monkey

I want to kick this post off by highlighting a fine new addition to the list of wonderful links on the right hand side of the page. Visit The Adventure Monkey and you will soon know of what I speak. Magnificent musings and photos from an E-Town local.

So....my adventure monkey couldn't be happier at the moment. Warm temperatures for Tuesday (40 degrees!) have led me to contact some folks for a group ride. Sure, I have to drive an hour and a half to get there, but it's worth it. I will get to ride outside (and on trails none the less!), with other people! Hmm...it just occured to me that since this ride is at 5:30 (will be pitch black by then) I will need the lights and this will negate the 40 degree temps. Didn't say my monkey was bright, still adventerous though. Better make sure the Superfly is tuned up, lights are charged up, and warm clothes are ready to go!

New Developments

I have a little bit of excitement to report. I sucked it up and dropped the money on a license. Never needed one before, but every race up here requires one. And that seems to be the way things are headed all over. I'm not saying it's a bad thing, just one more thing we have to spend money on. So, you're looking at rider # 261426. Hey, it beats buying the one day license every time. 

More importantly, I have found a new goal for this summer. Garrett has inspired me to quit being a lazy bum. I completed the DK 200, to date the most challenging race I've had the pleasure of participating in, and then I found this little beauty.

That's right, a 24 hour race is in my future. Close by and a reasonable price. Maybe that will put a little fire in the legs for a return trip to the Dirty Kanza in 2011! I am certainly looking forward to the challenge. Congrats and good luck by the way, to all those fools who signed up for their first (or yet another) DK 200. It is one of the best events I have ever done. And a big congrats to the newly formed High Gear race team. I couldn't imagine a better group of people. 

Alright, back to the grind on that %$#@* trainer. Gonna keep my spirits up and dream of sunny skies and warm temps. It won't be long!

New Year, New Fun

That's the hopes anyways. To back track a little....Christmas was a bit uneventful for me. In fact it was the first one in 25 years I didn't spend with my family in the fine state of KS. But, it does mean I've earned myself a little more time to visit when I travel back that way. New Year's was good, rang in 2010 in the CEO's hot tub looking out over the ice covered lake and snow covered mountains. Can't complain there.

I am quite excited to know that I will be racing my bike in just 2 and a 1/2 short months. I found a local Tuesday night crit series not far from here that I will be able to make regular appearances at. Never done 'em before, but I'll take what I can get. Then come mtb season I will actually be able to work mon-fri and have weekends free. That means I will be able to do some racing! So until then I'll just keep plugging away on the trainer. In fact, I'm headed there now.