YIKES!
Going into this race with Closure strips holding My Bum together. A sore shoulder from Walburgs crash.
Not even sure If I am capable of pedaling my bike, so I am prepared not to race. (yeah right) Get on the rollers and okay, not bad, so Tammy and I are warming up for the race, as Justin (tammy's hubby) informs us of the scary crash he just witnessed. Okay, so If the race gets to sketchy I will just pull out.
A couple laps in, and someone makes a Stupid mistake and wipes out half the field, including myself. I am Super Upset now, I get up and can't even find my bike, as I look up and notice Catherine (kenda) has my bike, which is all tangled with hers, I carefully untagle the mess, put my chain back on and turn back to team mate Tracie, she is okay, so Lets Go!!!! I put it in my Big Ring and hammer. It took us about 3/4 a lap to catch back up to the group. I am glad we did all of that work as the race later came to a complete Halt, later learned some pro 1-2 guy made a dumb move and took out some of the cat 4 women. Boy would this have been a different finish if the promoters would not have Shortened our Lap. ??? I mean, these races are not even 50 miles. Oh Well.
Though, not very happy how I just needed a bit more patience . I didn't want to slow down for the final turn, I decided to take it fast and about 15 or so feet from the line I get swallowed up by the field. Bad Move. But , team mate Tracie took a third place. Way to go Tracie.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Monday, February 25, 2008
Walburg-Road Race
I am not so much of a Road Racer.. I think>>>?? I get caught up in crash, on the first lap. I was on the edge of the road and the grass, not a bad place to be .. However, we had a cross wind, and just before I go down, I hear some yapping on my left, boom, I go down, I just do a roll over, and then, get back up fast, grab my bike without noticing anything wrong just look up as I see the pack, already 200 yards or so gone.. I get back on fast, team mate Kim Jennings rolls up and asks, are you okay? I say yes, and we take off, Kim helps me bridge back up, as she pulls as hard as she can, I go around, and then, I see Kim falling off, I try to encourage her to come up, but I was doing all I could to get to the group. I finally make it, but am really suffering here, so I figured it was because I was in the back, so I come up around to get out of the wind. Still dying here. I notice my stem is off centered, and Duh!! I notice my brake closed on my rim. Yes, I was riding wiht my brake completely rubbing. I reach down to open my break lever, which, helped but was still touching a bit, due to the wheel being out of true. No wonder I felt like crap! I learn that Kim is back on, and we continue to race. I managed to take 2nd place, behind Shontell Gauthier (Colavita) . A bit disappointed since, this could have been a win for me due to the uphill finish. Though, my team mate Tammy who just received her cat 2 upgrade, got a 5th place finish. Way to go Tammy. I do have to say, this was a great Team effort here . I have to thank Michelle for all of the hard efforts, and Kim for helping get back onto the race, and Tammy for her hard efforts too. I later learned that Tracie was caught up in the crash as well, but, she had to chase on all by herself. sorry Tracie.. I had no idea.. But, she was able to get back on.. and finish 4th place. Way to go Lone Star Works. Thanks again, goes to Colonels Bicycles in Ft. Worth, for the fast Giant .
Thanks Ben from Austin Bikes
I have to send out a Big Thanks to Ben over at Austin Bikes.
I came to race on the road this past weekend at Walburg and Pace Bend. Well, was involved in a crash on Saturday (Walburg)
And my bike needed some help, my front wheel was out of true. My stem was off center and no telling what else had happened to it. Luckily for me, there is Austin Bikes in Austin ,Texas.. I took it up and not only did he true my wheel, he looked over the entire bike so meticulously, I knew I was in good hands. Of course, a good mechanic always get on the bike to make sure it is running smoothly. And sure enough, Ben took it on a ride and everything was good. He even cleaned my chain and wiped my bike down . Boy, did I feel special. Thanks Ben !!!! I hope everyone in Austin comes to see you guys. Owners of Austin Bikes Sol& Eric, A big thanks to you Guys!!!
I came to race on the road this past weekend at Walburg and Pace Bend. Well, was involved in a crash on Saturday (Walburg)
And my bike needed some help, my front wheel was out of true. My stem was off center and no telling what else had happened to it. Luckily for me, there is Austin Bikes in Austin ,Texas.. I took it up and not only did he true my wheel, he looked over the entire bike so meticulously, I knew I was in good hands. Of course, a good mechanic always get on the bike to make sure it is running smoothly. And sure enough, Ben took it on a ride and everything was good. He even cleaned my chain and wiped my bike down . Boy, did I feel special. Thanks Ben !!!! I hope everyone in Austin comes to see you guys. Owners of Austin Bikes Sol& Eric, A big thanks to you Guys!!!
Mas O Menos-Race Report
The weather predicted was harsh... but reality is ... wait.. there is no reality in the desert.
It was not your average Mountain Bike Race, It was more like a Road Time Trial, or at least that is what it felt like. This race was the first race on the Ultra Endurance National Calendar and the Texas Cross Country Circuit (TMBRA.ORG) . Luckily for me it was the last Marathon race for the Texas Marathon Series, it is official, I am the defending Texas State Marathon Champion for 2008. Yipee!! Two Down!!
They start the Pro Women on the line with the ProMen and we have a neutral start until the road crossing. And you come over the road and onto the gravel road, now of course it is a very fast start and I must say, I had a hard time seeing what was in front of me. So, I didn't do my usual hard sprint start, this paticuliar course had a lot of rollers, tight loose gravel turns, with some nice unexpected dips and trenches along the way. So, choosing a good line is a Must. As the guys tear out of there and just leave a Cloud of Dust for View> I didn't know where any of the girls were, until Jennifer Wilson (Titus) came by me.. Of course, I couldn't let that happen, and turn it up a couple more notches. We come onto the single track and it is just a train of guys in front , were all moving nicely. until the first little loose Power Climb, a lot of people are having to get off their bikes. Thankfully for my cycle cross training, If I have to get off of my bike, I am sure to be running my bike up the climb. Well, I then get passed in the Valley of thick gravel . So, I am now behind some guy who is directly behind Jennifer Wilson. As we get out back onto the open single track, I am really itching here.. I know this is where I am fast. I hear the guy in front of me asks to pass, as He goes around Jennifer, I stay on his wheel and go right by here, brushing up against some sticker bush... ouch.. that Hurt
I begin to go hard, I look ahead, and I can see Lucas, I keep him in sight for a while and come by to pass.. I had wondered if he knew I started with the guys.. Come to find out, he thought I started five minutes back. oops. Well, it is not until the first Great Big Climb, I could look down, and see Jenifer starting to make the climb.. ***Crap** I am in my middle chain ring and pushing up this thing, trying to stay focused, as the climb gets a bit technical towards the top. I never see her again, however, I know she is not too far behind and still chasing. I do get passed by the leader in the Men's Expert 30-39 class, Dan Optke (San Jose) Boy, is he fast. He came by me on the climb just spinning his legs so fast, I had to take a double take.. I couldn't believe it. Wow.. Then, at the top of the climb, we still had some more climbing to do, more like false flats. Before the Long sketchy loose gravel Descent, which typically I Love descending.. but, after my 2 flats on the preride, I knew the last thing I needed was flat, so descended conservatively. Luckily for me I changed my front tire to a Kenda Nevagal . Sweet Tire. It could handle any loose corner at great speeds.
Well, I didn't see another guy until starting the second lap, I then ride with John Rigdeon whom is pretty fast in the open sections. Going into the second lap, for the Last time making it to the Climb. Well, before the climb , way.. before the climb.. we have our 2nd feed zone area before you cross the road , to the road that leads to the Big Climb. I have to stop and grab my feeds out of my cooler, and Ridgen passes me on the feed. And as I get back on the bike , I see them ahead on the jeep road , looking back, and attacking.. I was in my big ring going as hard as I could to catch up to them. Finally, catch up, and how sweet it was to see John Sanborn (Dallas Bike Works) ... He was a bit disappointed I had caught him. Though, the wind changed directions as we hit that final Climb, so you were climbing into a head wind, and I had to drop down into my granny ring, which I never do. And I felt like I was going backwards at this point. And then, Lucas (Bike Plus) came spinning past me. I started to feel my rhythm again on the downhill, and unlike the first lap, I was now thinking of my record time. I didn't know it at the time, but I did manage to beat my record by a minute. Finished first Place with 4 hrs and 51 minutes. I want to thank Kenda, for the Great Awesome Tires. And My Super Fast World Champion Bike. The Orbea Alma "Absalon" , edition, Sweet, stiff , Very Fast Bike. You can get your very Own Special Edition Alma Absalon Bike at Austin Bikes in Austin, Texas. The Tires and the Bike makes a Huge Difference. Oh, and I have to Thank Rudy at the Finish Line, Therapy Center, for my great massage I had before My trip. (And afterwards!)
It was not your average Mountain Bike Race, It was more like a Road Time Trial, or at least that is what it felt like. This race was the first race on the Ultra Endurance National Calendar and the Texas Cross Country Circuit (TMBRA.ORG) . Luckily for me it was the last Marathon race for the Texas Marathon Series, it is official, I am the defending Texas State Marathon Champion for 2008. Yipee!! Two Down!!
They start the Pro Women on the line with the ProMen and we have a neutral start until the road crossing. And you come over the road and onto the gravel road, now of course it is a very fast start and I must say, I had a hard time seeing what was in front of me. So, I didn't do my usual hard sprint start, this paticuliar course had a lot of rollers, tight loose gravel turns, with some nice unexpected dips and trenches along the way. So, choosing a good line is a Must. As the guys tear out of there and just leave a Cloud of Dust for View> I didn't know where any of the girls were, until Jennifer Wilson (Titus) came by me.. Of course, I couldn't let that happen, and turn it up a couple more notches. We come onto the single track and it is just a train of guys in front , were all moving nicely. until the first little loose Power Climb, a lot of people are having to get off their bikes. Thankfully for my cycle cross training, If I have to get off of my bike, I am sure to be running my bike up the climb. Well, I then get passed in the Valley of thick gravel . So, I am now behind some guy who is directly behind Jennifer Wilson. As we get out back onto the open single track, I am really itching here.. I know this is where I am fast. I hear the guy in front of me asks to pass, as He goes around Jennifer, I stay on his wheel and go right by here, brushing up against some sticker bush... ouch.. that Hurt
I begin to go hard, I look ahead, and I can see Lucas, I keep him in sight for a while and come by to pass.. I had wondered if he knew I started with the guys.. Come to find out, he thought I started five minutes back. oops. Well, it is not until the first Great Big Climb, I could look down, and see Jenifer starting to make the climb.. ***Crap** I am in my middle chain ring and pushing up this thing, trying to stay focused, as the climb gets a bit technical towards the top. I never see her again, however, I know she is not too far behind and still chasing. I do get passed by the leader in the Men's Expert 30-39 class, Dan Optke (San Jose) Boy, is he fast. He came by me on the climb just spinning his legs so fast, I had to take a double take.. I couldn't believe it. Wow.. Then, at the top of the climb, we still had some more climbing to do, more like false flats. Before the Long sketchy loose gravel Descent, which typically I Love descending.. but, after my 2 flats on the preride, I knew the last thing I needed was flat, so descended conservatively. Luckily for me I changed my front tire to a Kenda Nevagal . Sweet Tire. It could handle any loose corner at great speeds.
Well, I didn't see another guy until starting the second lap, I then ride with John Rigdeon whom is pretty fast in the open sections. Going into the second lap, for the Last time making it to the Climb. Well, before the climb , way.. before the climb.. we have our 2nd feed zone area before you cross the road , to the road that leads to the Big Climb. I have to stop and grab my feeds out of my cooler, and Ridgen passes me on the feed. And as I get back on the bike , I see them ahead on the jeep road , looking back, and attacking.. I was in my big ring going as hard as I could to catch up to them. Finally, catch up, and how sweet it was to see John Sanborn (Dallas Bike Works) ... He was a bit disappointed I had caught him. Though, the wind changed directions as we hit that final Climb, so you were climbing into a head wind, and I had to drop down into my granny ring, which I never do. And I felt like I was going backwards at this point. And then, Lucas (Bike Plus) came spinning past me. I started to feel my rhythm again on the downhill, and unlike the first lap, I was now thinking of my record time. I didn't know it at the time, but I did manage to beat my record by a minute. Finished first Place with 4 hrs and 51 minutes. I want to thank Kenda, for the Great Awesome Tires. And My Super Fast World Champion Bike. The Orbea Alma "Absalon" , edition, Sweet, stiff , Very Fast Bike. You can get your very Own Special Edition Alma Absalon Bike at Austin Bikes in Austin, Texas. The Tires and the Bike makes a Huge Difference. Oh, and I have to Thank Rudy at the Finish Line, Therapy Center, for my great massage I had before My trip. (And afterwards!)
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Cycling News 2008: Ultra Endurance National
By Sue George with assistance from Mike Gladu
Jason Sager leads Bryan Fawley Photo ©: Mike Gladu
After the traditional lead-out by the Mystery Man opened the annual Mas O Menos race, Jason Sager (MonavieCannondale.com) won the Open Class Champion in the 100km event held over President's Day weekend. Sager battled Bryan Fawley (TX Tough San Jose) for much of the race while Even Plews (Capitol Subaru) rode alone in third behind them.
Sager led Fawley the first of two times up the Tres Cuevas climb, and also claimed the cash bonus for first Open rider to the "Top of the Hill" 1866. Armando Zacarias and Nat Ross came next behind them. Fawley surrendered some ground before the finish and ended up third behind Sager and Plews in 4:07:30. Sager finished with a time of 4:05:03, over a minute ahead of Plews with Fawley two and half minutes back.
Christina Smith repeats as the Open Women 100k winner Photo ©: Mike Gladu
Christina Smith (Lonestarworks/Austin Bikes) took the Open Women 100k winner at 4:51:08 and became a repeat winner in front of Jennifer Wilson (Titus) and Alice Pennington (S&M/Desalvo Custom Cycles), while Julia Kastner brought home the 19-29 100k win with a 6:16:53 and Zoe Nance took the 30-39 100k win in 6:05:58.
The race served as simultaneous stops on the 2008 Texas Championships Mountain Bike Series, the Hill Country Bicycle Works Championships Marathon Series and the USA Cycling National Ultra Endurance Calendar.
Photography
Jason Sager leads Bryan Fawley Photo ©: Mike Gladu
After the traditional lead-out by the Mystery Man opened the annual Mas O Menos race, Jason Sager (MonavieCannondale.com) won the Open Class Champion in the 100km event held over President's Day weekend. Sager battled Bryan Fawley (TX Tough San Jose) for much of the race while Even Plews (Capitol Subaru) rode alone in third behind them.
Sager led Fawley the first of two times up the Tres Cuevas climb, and also claimed the cash bonus for first Open rider to the "Top of the Hill" 1866. Armando Zacarias and Nat Ross came next behind them. Fawley surrendered some ground before the finish and ended up third behind Sager and Plews in 4:07:30. Sager finished with a time of 4:05:03, over a minute ahead of Plews with Fawley two and half minutes back.
Christina Smith repeats as the Open Women 100k winner Photo ©: Mike Gladu
Christina Smith (Lonestarworks/Austin Bikes) took the Open Women 100k winner at 4:51:08 and became a repeat winner in front of Jennifer Wilson (Titus) and Alice Pennington (S&M/Desalvo Custom Cycles), while Julia Kastner brought home the 19-29 100k win with a 6:16:53 and Zoe Nance took the 30-39 100k win in 6:05:58.
The race served as simultaneous stops on the 2008 Texas Championships Mountain Bike Series, the Hill Country Bicycle Works Championships Marathon Series and the USA Cycling National Ultra Endurance Calendar.
Photography
Thursday, February 7, 2008
First Road Race/ Criterium: T.O.N.B
I have to say, I am soo Excited about our team. I had so much fun hanging out with all you guys this past weekend. I loved racing with you all, Sharing Good times and Laughs. I knew we had a strong team, but I am really impressed how we all came together out there "on the court" . We all had our Game faces on for opening Weekend, well, maybe not exactly, but felt like it anyway.. Now, I can just imagine what people are saying now, what a Great Looking Squad!! Yes, those Kits had everyone talking. I have never received so many compliments regarding Kits, Thank you Bibi, are Senior Art Director designed our kits this year. Boy they look Sharp! And the Hot Socks! Yes those are a Smith Special :) Go to Harlotwear.com they are the Einstein Socks
T.O.N.B. What a Beautiful Place, Both events the criterium and Road race were both great Courses. The Road race is held in a Coach Oulet Mall Parking Lot. As our princess, Tammy Wallace enjoyed the shopping, she had every reason to celebrate, what a race she had. 4th in the field sprint, on Sunday. There were a lot of Strong girls in the Womens Open field,quite impressed, especially seeing Joyce Basinger finishing with the pack, way to go. Pro mountain Biker, Kim Jennings and team mate, really made some girls work ! What is so cool, Is they haven't seen nothing Yet. Kim's Legs stretching the peloton out, one by one.. falling off, only leaving the strongest to be there for the finish. I do have to say the Lone Star Works will be the team to watch. What a great start for the season. We Had a Win for both days!!!
The Crit on Saturday, I think I was a " in the right place at the right time, kinda win",I mean, the course is not known of breaks sticking. I never really think about that during the races I guess. As Michelle can give a better race report then I can for the crit ;).
Michelle Montoya, does make the first move, I have to say, it is pretty tense within the first 5min of the race when their is an Attack right off the back , driven by Michelle Montoya, a strong Lone Star Works rider, the group stays together, despite all of the hard attempts, Mel Brown, Solar Eclipse, even Lori Barrett takes off, a little too excited, she over shoots her turn and ends up in the grass, as the group comes around to swallow the San Jose rider, whom finishes her race with a flat. Natalie Klemko apparently a race favorite, sat in for the sprint, as they say, Close but no Cigar, to finish with a 2nd Place. The One that Got away, For the last lap, Kate Sherwin makes the move, without thinking I jump and bridge up to the pro. I let her know to keep going, that I will fly down this descent, sure enough, were off, with the group chasing close behind, they keep us in sight, as I am pretty nervous to use my energy, as all I can think of, is Winning this race at this point. At one point, I look back, thinking we were going to get caught, okay , I didn't want to get caught, Kate never says anything, I start to put a bit more into this break, as I can't believe the finish is coming near, we approach the ambulance, (which was on the course from an earlier accident in the cat 4 race) 500 m?? not too far. I come around Kate and Sprint to the finish, I hear the spectaturs, yelling ," there coming!!!!" :o. I make the last shift on my super stiff, sprinter friendly New Giant, provided by Colonels . I do have to say I can't wait for a Sprint, that Bike Is Awesome. Thanks Doug and Rick from Colonels!
The Road RAce...... do believe it was one of the toughest road races I have attended. Now, that may have to do with all of the attempts we had to make to try to get a break, but everyone was hanging on. As, the new strong San Hose girls did there share of pulling and working.
This course appears to be well suited for the chics from Lone Star Works, it had a fair deal of rollers, false flats, fast descents, and some pretty sharp corners, I especially love the descent to the 90 degree turn onto the uprutted chip and seal, or do we just call it gravel here in Tejas? :o. Unfortunately, they don't require mountain bike lessons for roadies. I am talking about some of the girls that are racing out there. Strong enough to hang on to the group, but can't keep a straight line. Come 'on girls.. go back to the basics here.
Michelle made some early jump attempts to start the games . One break, I guess it was just too early on, we had several strong riders, including Natalie Klemco pro from Advil Chapstick, Tammy Wallace, , Tracie A. Christina S. . . The group would keep on reeling people back to the peloton. It worked out pretty well for the one that finally did stick. Apparently two girls got away, Chris Wolfe from San Jose, whom is pretty strong, and Annick Beaudet from At&T she was formerly on Austin Flyers. Well, the peleton passes on the opportunity to chase,two riders were not going to stay away, If Smith and Tracie Akerhelm, couldn't keep the hungry pack away..., they just kept the two in eyesight. A chase group forms from the peloton, I know Lone Star Works, Tracie Akerhem and Solar Eclipse Kim Coilli whom was working through out the day forms a get away. As the peloton is not too far behind the chase group, I look ahead we are approaching a slight decline to a sharp turn, that shoots you up hill. I know I dont want to be behind everyone as we make this descent and corner, I knew I could bridge up to the two who got away. I make the attempt, one hard jump and I hammer through the corner and "Yell" to the chase group, "UP "UP "UP"!!! :o. Thankfully for me, Tracie jumps on to my wheel and I bridge up to the two, feeling like I am going to die, as we get up to Chris Wolfe, and Annick B, Tracie comes around and starts to pull.
Sweet. We are making short hard pulls, I keep hearing Tracie scream, in a soft voice, Yeah! as I remind her, we are not in the clear yet. I know the break would not have stuck unless we had at least 4 girls, we pushed hard for a lap and 3/4 out of the 4 laps which, were 12 mile loops. Apparently, the San Jose girl, Chris Wolfe, tried to attack ? As we were already going pretty hard, I just thought she was making hard pulls. I guess she thought I was getting tired, since we both reminded her to ease up on the pull throughs . Tracie remindes her that she is going to drop someone, that someone ended up being the AT & T , Annick Beaudet. The wheel truck pulls up along side and announces the left turn is soon approaching to the finish , this was about the time our group realizes, We all Made it . I decide to come around in front to pull through the corner, but, I didn't jump, I slow up just to the inside of the turn, probably not the best spot, since there was a cross wind coming on my left side, I know it had been a tough race, not sure how much effort I was going to have to put out as Tracie and I both had her covered, waiting for the "jump" Well, it really never came, I am assuming she fell off, or didn't want to contest the sprint? Or maybe she just ran out of gas, before the finish line, as Tracie and I acclerate up to the finish line, and no there was no Thelma & Louise Finish. 1st Traice and 2nd Christina, an awesome finish. We spin around to watch the field sprint, as Kim Jennings, Strings the pack out along the 1/2 mile finish stretch. Sheri Roth, Austin Flyers on Kims wheel, whom played a smart race to win the Field Sprint, and Lone Star Works, Michelle Montoya just a breath behind Sheri followed by Shelby with Sugar Cycles for 3rd, just in front of 4th , Lone Star Works, Tammy Wallace, following behind with enough energy to get a top 9th finish overall from the Lead out lone star Work Kim Jennings.
I do have to say, a lot of nice girls out there racing. Now, I can't wait when we have everyone out , Cassandra,Becky, Kelly, and the Beebs. This is going to be So Awesome!!! It was a great Circuit Venue, I loved the course or "route" as you roadies may call it. Tobin and Jennifer put on a great RAce, and we will always Return to T.O.N.B, as this is always a Favorite. Tobin and Jennifer also were great Hosts, as they opened their homes to the team.
T.O.N.B. What a Beautiful Place, Both events the criterium and Road race were both great Courses. The Road race is held in a Coach Oulet Mall Parking Lot. As our princess, Tammy Wallace enjoyed the shopping, she had every reason to celebrate, what a race she had. 4th in the field sprint, on Sunday. There were a lot of Strong girls in the Womens Open field,quite impressed, especially seeing Joyce Basinger finishing with the pack, way to go. Pro mountain Biker, Kim Jennings and team mate, really made some girls work ! What is so cool, Is they haven't seen nothing Yet. Kim's Legs stretching the peloton out, one by one.. falling off, only leaving the strongest to be there for the finish. I do have to say the Lone Star Works will be the team to watch. What a great start for the season. We Had a Win for both days!!!
The Crit on Saturday, I think I was a " in the right place at the right time, kinda win",I mean, the course is not known of breaks sticking. I never really think about that during the races I guess. As Michelle can give a better race report then I can for the crit ;).
Michelle Montoya, does make the first move, I have to say, it is pretty tense within the first 5min of the race when their is an Attack right off the back , driven by Michelle Montoya, a strong Lone Star Works rider, the group stays together, despite all of the hard attempts, Mel Brown, Solar Eclipse, even Lori Barrett takes off, a little too excited, she over shoots her turn and ends up in the grass, as the group comes around to swallow the San Jose rider, whom finishes her race with a flat. Natalie Klemko apparently a race favorite, sat in for the sprint, as they say, Close but no Cigar, to finish with a 2nd Place. The One that Got away, For the last lap, Kate Sherwin makes the move, without thinking I jump and bridge up to the pro. I let her know to keep going, that I will fly down this descent, sure enough, were off, with the group chasing close behind, they keep us in sight, as I am pretty nervous to use my energy, as all I can think of, is Winning this race at this point. At one point, I look back, thinking we were going to get caught, okay , I didn't want to get caught, Kate never says anything, I start to put a bit more into this break, as I can't believe the finish is coming near, we approach the ambulance, (which was on the course from an earlier accident in the cat 4 race) 500 m?? not too far. I come around Kate and Sprint to the finish, I hear the spectaturs, yelling ," there coming!!!!" :o. I make the last shift on my super stiff, sprinter friendly New Giant, provided by Colonels . I do have to say I can't wait for a Sprint, that Bike Is Awesome. Thanks Doug and Rick from Colonels!
The Road RAce...... do believe it was one of the toughest road races I have attended. Now, that may have to do with all of the attempts we had to make to try to get a break, but everyone was hanging on. As, the new strong San Hose girls did there share of pulling and working.
This course appears to be well suited for the chics from Lone Star Works, it had a fair deal of rollers, false flats, fast descents, and some pretty sharp corners, I especially love the descent to the 90 degree turn onto the uprutted chip and seal, or do we just call it gravel here in Tejas? :o. Unfortunately, they don't require mountain bike lessons for roadies. I am talking about some of the girls that are racing out there. Strong enough to hang on to the group, but can't keep a straight line. Come 'on girls.. go back to the basics here.
Michelle made some early jump attempts to start the games . One break, I guess it was just too early on, we had several strong riders, including Natalie Klemco pro from Advil Chapstick, Tammy Wallace, , Tracie A. Christina S. . . The group would keep on reeling people back to the peloton. It worked out pretty well for the one that finally did stick. Apparently two girls got away, Chris Wolfe from San Jose, whom is pretty strong, and Annick Beaudet from At&T she was formerly on Austin Flyers. Well, the peleton passes on the opportunity to chase,two riders were not going to stay away, If Smith and Tracie Akerhelm, couldn't keep the hungry pack away..., they just kept the two in eyesight. A chase group forms from the peloton, I know Lone Star Works, Tracie Akerhem and Solar Eclipse Kim Coilli whom was working through out the day forms a get away. As the peloton is not too far behind the chase group, I look ahead we are approaching a slight decline to a sharp turn, that shoots you up hill. I know I dont want to be behind everyone as we make this descent and corner, I knew I could bridge up to the two who got away. I make the attempt, one hard jump and I hammer through the corner and "Yell" to the chase group, "UP "UP "UP"!!! :o. Thankfully for me, Tracie jumps on to my wheel and I bridge up to the two, feeling like I am going to die, as we get up to Chris Wolfe, and Annick B, Tracie comes around and starts to pull.
Sweet. We are making short hard pulls, I keep hearing Tracie scream, in a soft voice, Yeah! as I remind her, we are not in the clear yet. I know the break would not have stuck unless we had at least 4 girls, we pushed hard for a lap and 3/4 out of the 4 laps which, were 12 mile loops. Apparently, the San Jose girl, Chris Wolfe, tried to attack ? As we were already going pretty hard, I just thought she was making hard pulls. I guess she thought I was getting tired, since we both reminded her to ease up on the pull throughs . Tracie remindes her that she is going to drop someone, that someone ended up being the AT & T , Annick Beaudet. The wheel truck pulls up along side and announces the left turn is soon approaching to the finish , this was about the time our group realizes, We all Made it . I decide to come around in front to pull through the corner, but, I didn't jump, I slow up just to the inside of the turn, probably not the best spot, since there was a cross wind coming on my left side, I know it had been a tough race, not sure how much effort I was going to have to put out as Tracie and I both had her covered, waiting for the "jump" Well, it really never came, I am assuming she fell off, or didn't want to contest the sprint? Or maybe she just ran out of gas, before the finish line, as Tracie and I acclerate up to the finish line, and no there was no Thelma & Louise Finish. 1st Traice and 2nd Christina, an awesome finish. We spin around to watch the field sprint, as Kim Jennings, Strings the pack out along the 1/2 mile finish stretch. Sheri Roth, Austin Flyers on Kims wheel, whom played a smart race to win the Field Sprint, and Lone Star Works, Michelle Montoya just a breath behind Sheri followed by Shelby with Sugar Cycles for 3rd, just in front of 4th , Lone Star Works, Tammy Wallace, following behind with enough energy to get a top 9th finish overall from the Lead out lone star Work Kim Jennings.
I do have to say, a lot of nice girls out there racing. Now, I can't wait when we have everyone out , Cassandra,Becky, Kelly, and the Beebs. This is going to be So Awesome!!! It was a great Circuit Venue, I loved the course or "route" as you roadies may call it. Tobin and Jennifer put on a great RAce, and we will always Return to T.O.N.B, as this is always a Favorite. Tobin and Jennifer also were great Hosts, as they opened their homes to the team.
Cycle Cross-
2006-2007 State Cycle Cross Champion
2007-2008 State Cycle Cross Champion
I tried Cycle Cross Last year for the first time, really enjoyed it so this year I decided to race cross on a Cross Bike. Much Better. Even though, I did win the State championship on a mtb :)
2007-2008 State Cycle Cross Champion
I tried Cycle Cross Last year for the first time, really enjoyed it so this year I decided to race cross on a Cross Bike. Much Better. Even though, I did win the State championship on a mtb :)
Marathon Series-2008
Mountain bike: Marathon -endurance distance
December 5th, Rock Springs, Camp Eagle
Place: 1st Women Open
Conditions were wet and Slick. The Open Women lined up on the line with the Open Men and the race was a Mass Start. I really didn't have anyone in my class, so I knew this was going to be a training ride for me, but the conditions were slick, so priority was to stay Safe. Now, some people may think you have to be crazy to race this course in wet conditions, let alone race it for a marathon race. The course is very technical, which I just love, plus we did the first section backwards, so a lot of climbing. I srint out, and stay in top 7, but, I never see Toby, apparently he flatted within the first 200 meters of the race. As soon as we hit the creek beds, we have pile ups, I figure I am going to work on my cycle cross skills. This actually worked out well, since I hardly ever get to practice riding in the mud. There were 9 or so women who started the race, and only 3 were able to finish. See, in the Marathon races they have a cut off lap, so if you don't make it, you get pulled.
Jan. 5th Excruciation Exam, "Torture Test"
1st Place, Open Women
This was a tough race. This was a La mans start, where you set your bike down and run a loop back to your bike then, into the trail at Warda for a lap. I had a descent start, there were soo many people , I got back to my bike and had to hit hard to get up towards the front. We get into the woods, a bit hard to pass people, I was behind Nathan Winklemen who was on a cross bike, I was able to get around still in the top 5 I would say, though, I could see the fast roadie guys coming hard behind me when we hit the field, I stayed in front as we go down the descent , and then Eric Hess comes around and Sol Frost, I start to fade a bit before the end of the lap, but, know I have to go hard to get back up to the front for the road ride portion. I wasn't feeling so great, as I felt like i had too much in my stomach.. So, I hit hard on the road, finally catch up to the group, and Bennett Brown lets out Gas! yes he FArted. I was trying not puke.. but, couldn't help it, and end up puking! No Worries, I simply go around and I am In. Until we hit the first check point, where you have to get your map signed. Well, my guy was a bit slow, as I finally get my paper back and into my jersey, everyone is sprinting off. I am left with Eric Hess and we work towards the pack. At one point I am looking down going 25mph on my mtb in the wind!! I couldn't maintain this, and Eric slowly walks away from me. I am thinking this is just great. I am left on the road , fortunately were about 10 miles to Smithville where we ride trail. I finally arrive, and fuel up, and am told the guys are about 30 sec. in front of me. Cool. Though, the trail had been rated by cows, so some of the ribbons were down. So, I come to an intersection and dont know where to go, so I go left, and ended up being the wrong way, so, I turn back to the point I made the left turn, go right and back on track. So, for most of the trail I wasn't sure if I was headed in the right direction. I finally run into old team mate, Cody Baron, and I am releived. We rode together for awhile and I came around on the climbs, and started feeling great. Back to the road, and ride up to Tristen Uhl and Bennet Brown, I dont think they were really wanting to go hard, so when we came upon another rider, we ended up dropping the boys. Back to Warda for a bit of trail left. I ended up seeing Toby .. OOOHHH I got a bit excited, If I only knew he was right there..hehe.... I finished without a sprint. It feels to get that race off the schedule. Not as hard as I remembered , pretty happy about my time. I think it was around 87 miles ?
Miles Of Discomfort~ Jan. 26th
Another technical race.... I had a horrible Start. They started the Open Women behind All of the Marathoners. and it was a Mass Start. So, they start the race, and there is a pile up before the first corner. So, I am going along the side of the climb, just simply trying to get around. And again, another pile up, as we hit the first technical section.. This was horrible, I couldn't get around, there were people running there bikes around the trail .. As we finally get rolling. I am in recovery Zone.. Thinking.. Are we racing or What??? That morning, I woke up in the middle of the night with Hives and wasn't sure what was wrong.. Of course, I started the race and forgot all about them. But, thought something was wrong.. Since, I was going sooo Slow.. I would try to get around, by riding off the trail, onto the rough terrain. But, NOOOO the guys would speed up so I couldn't get around. My derailleur hangar ends up getting hit and now my gears are skipping in the back. This was going to be a tough race, I was just thinking.. that I am going to get passed by the girls. at this rate. Well, never got passed by a girl, but things starting to turn around, as I finally stop to pull my derailler hangar straight. Okay, things are going good. and I start to turn it on.. Then, all of a sudden I am off my bike. I had a bad crash.. nothing technical, but My foot must have hit a rock, and me and my bike came flying off the trail. I get up and notice my computer on the ground, I try to pick it up and I could hardly close my fingers. I think I may have broken my hand, oh it hurt so bad. Well, I get back on and way I go. This was only the first half lap.. Though, after all of this, I start to race well . and have a strong finish. But, I was not happy with my time. (same time as last year) Should have been 15 min. faster.
December 5th, Rock Springs, Camp Eagle
Place: 1st Women Open
Conditions were wet and Slick. The Open Women lined up on the line with the Open Men and the race was a Mass Start. I really didn't have anyone in my class, so I knew this was going to be a training ride for me, but the conditions were slick, so priority was to stay Safe. Now, some people may think you have to be crazy to race this course in wet conditions, let alone race it for a marathon race. The course is very technical, which I just love, plus we did the first section backwards, so a lot of climbing. I srint out, and stay in top 7, but, I never see Toby, apparently he flatted within the first 200 meters of the race. As soon as we hit the creek beds, we have pile ups, I figure I am going to work on my cycle cross skills. This actually worked out well, since I hardly ever get to practice riding in the mud. There were 9 or so women who started the race, and only 3 were able to finish. See, in the Marathon races they have a cut off lap, so if you don't make it, you get pulled.
Jan. 5th Excruciation Exam, "Torture Test"
1st Place, Open Women
This was a tough race. This was a La mans start, where you set your bike down and run a loop back to your bike then, into the trail at Warda for a lap. I had a descent start, there were soo many people , I got back to my bike and had to hit hard to get up towards the front. We get into the woods, a bit hard to pass people, I was behind Nathan Winklemen who was on a cross bike, I was able to get around still in the top 5 I would say, though, I could see the fast roadie guys coming hard behind me when we hit the field, I stayed in front as we go down the descent , and then Eric Hess comes around and Sol Frost, I start to fade a bit before the end of the lap, but, know I have to go hard to get back up to the front for the road ride portion. I wasn't feeling so great, as I felt like i had too much in my stomach.. So, I hit hard on the road, finally catch up to the group, and Bennett Brown lets out Gas! yes he FArted. I was trying not puke.. but, couldn't help it, and end up puking! No Worries, I simply go around and I am In. Until we hit the first check point, where you have to get your map signed. Well, my guy was a bit slow, as I finally get my paper back and into my jersey, everyone is sprinting off. I am left with Eric Hess and we work towards the pack. At one point I am looking down going 25mph on my mtb in the wind!! I couldn't maintain this, and Eric slowly walks away from me. I am thinking this is just great. I am left on the road , fortunately were about 10 miles to Smithville where we ride trail. I finally arrive, and fuel up, and am told the guys are about 30 sec. in front of me. Cool. Though, the trail had been rated by cows, so some of the ribbons were down. So, I come to an intersection and dont know where to go, so I go left, and ended up being the wrong way, so, I turn back to the point I made the left turn, go right and back on track. So, for most of the trail I wasn't sure if I was headed in the right direction. I finally run into old team mate, Cody Baron, and I am releived. We rode together for awhile and I came around on the climbs, and started feeling great. Back to the road, and ride up to Tristen Uhl and Bennet Brown, I dont think they were really wanting to go hard, so when we came upon another rider, we ended up dropping the boys. Back to Warda for a bit of trail left. I ended up seeing Toby .. OOOHHH I got a bit excited, If I only knew he was right there..hehe.... I finished without a sprint. It feels to get that race off the schedule. Not as hard as I remembered , pretty happy about my time. I think it was around 87 miles ?
Miles Of Discomfort~ Jan. 26th
Another technical race.... I had a horrible Start. They started the Open Women behind All of the Marathoners. and it was a Mass Start. So, they start the race, and there is a pile up before the first corner. So, I am going along the side of the climb, just simply trying to get around. And again, another pile up, as we hit the first technical section.. This was horrible, I couldn't get around, there were people running there bikes around the trail .. As we finally get rolling. I am in recovery Zone.. Thinking.. Are we racing or What??? That morning, I woke up in the middle of the night with Hives and wasn't sure what was wrong.. Of course, I started the race and forgot all about them. But, thought something was wrong.. Since, I was going sooo Slow.. I would try to get around, by riding off the trail, onto the rough terrain. But, NOOOO the guys would speed up so I couldn't get around. My derailleur hangar ends up getting hit and now my gears are skipping in the back. This was going to be a tough race, I was just thinking.. that I am going to get passed by the girls. at this rate. Well, never got passed by a girl, but things starting to turn around, as I finally stop to pull my derailler hangar straight. Okay, things are going good. and I start to turn it on.. Then, all of a sudden I am off my bike. I had a bad crash.. nothing technical, but My foot must have hit a rock, and me and my bike came flying off the trail. I get up and notice my computer on the ground, I try to pick it up and I could hardly close my fingers. I think I may have broken my hand, oh it hurt so bad. Well, I get back on and way I go. This was only the first half lap.. Though, after all of this, I start to race well . and have a strong finish. But, I was not happy with my time. (same time as last year) Should have been 15 min. faster.
Get Your Massage!!!
Went to see Rudy yesteday. AAHHHH!!! I haven't had a massage in a few weeks.. *note to self, not to do that again..
Great Training is Useless Without a Proper Massage.
Rudy at the Finish Line, One of the Teams Sponsors and a Sponsor for me on the Dirt too. So, I can continue to race week after week. He is really good. They do offer Swedish masssages for those that do not need a deep tissue massage. But, he is really good. Located off of 635 and Hillcrest in Dallas 972-503-1110
Great Training is Useless Without a Proper Massage.
Rudy at the Finish Line, One of the Teams Sponsors and a Sponsor for me on the Dirt too. So, I can continue to race week after week. He is really good. They do offer Swedish masssages for those that do not need a deep tissue massage. But, he is really good. Located off of 635 and Hillcrest in Dallas 972-503-1110
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