Training resumed last week. I wanted to take a week of two off but mind, body and the pending Seagull Century wouldn't allow it. Friday was to be riding day, but the body/mind said "no." Saturday I got a little later then wanted start and just did 14 of 16 but the heat had really cranked up. I am still feeling the effects of yesterdays 40/2:25 ride with Mark H. We took it out well and had a consistently good ride. The way back was rough. Headwind all the way. I was feeling a bonk coming on -- glad we stopped when we did. The way out was cool and comfortable and I know I did not hydrate enough. Started cramping a little at 25 miles. I felt bad because Mark was feeling strong and thinking about his racing days. But, like a real team member, he found a gear that allowed me to keep up. Thanks! Maybe Mama beat me more then I thought!

I have to re-evaluate my heart monitor settings. I should be at 175 bpm for my max according the the book. I think I am a little higher. I ran between 174 and 177 for ten miles. Like Mark said, that is eather really good or really ineffcient. I feel like I have squirrel heart beating in my chest! Anyway, today is a rest day as I await the arrival of my ebay purchase, a carbon Botnrager triple crank, new in box for a steal of a deal.

Spin on.

What Doesn't Kill Ya...

Had a great ride last night. Temps were low (83º) due to overcast skies all day. Did 18/1:07. I pushed a few simulated "hills" by kicking it to the highest gear and evenly cranking.

Mama threw some crap at me/us but we survived and I think my legs are stronger for the effort.

I am looking at switching out my 53/39 for a triple 52/42/30. Ebay is my helper with a whole new carbon crank, shimano levers and front deraillure. I'll accept opinions.

Spin on!

I Got A Fever

In the words of Christopher Walken on SNL "I got a fever and the cure call for more cow bells." Well okay, mine calls for more bike parts. I took my ride in for warranty repair and ended up with a new Bontrager X Lite Race saddle and carry-all bag. THe saddle is carbon based with the "labiator" slot down the center on hollow titanium rails. My first ride Sunday was a wee bit uncomfortable at the start but I settled in as the heat pain replaced the a** pain. A little more time and we should both be fine.
Also looking at a carbon compact drive on ebay. After the abuse "Mama" threw at me, any weapon I can put in my arsenal is worth exploring.

Trying to get back in a routine for Seagull -- sign up soon!!

Pedal & Paddle

Back in the Saddle

I made it! It was only 12 miles but it felt good to spin on the road. After the mountains I was able to laugh at the head-wind. It brought back some of that lacking energy too. I have to include longer recovery times now that I'm "old."

My heart rate started at a good 70 bpm (resting) and I never reached my max. When we rode the MM I started at 101 resting. I attribute that to the 27 mile ride, elevation and adrenaline, but it really makes a difference to start low. My buddy Mark tells me that they never trained with a high resting heart rate -- mean you were over-training or getting sick.

My goal for the next few months is to spin, build back to some distance and work on controlling my breating.

Have a good weekend all -- pedal and paddle!

Ps. Thanks to all the R2R donors -- we raised $2,150 and awsome start!!

Who's On First

Just a quick query to see who on Team R2R is going to be the first to ride again after the MM. I hope to get a spin in tonight.

The event was great after all the mind numbing climbs eased a bit. Legs still feel a little sore and more sleep is needed -- but duty calls. Thank Heaven 7-11 for Stok shots:)

Pedal & Paddle

On Your Mark...

The Mountain Mama is calling even louder now -- just two days away. If you're not ready now...

Meals are planned, half a suitcase of suppliments are packed, gear and more gear.

Safe and healthy travels, all.

Pedal and paddle

Arrivee

The Tour is over, congrats to Discovery! My training is about over for the MM event. I have tried all the suppliments, fitted my machine the best I can and put most of the training miles behind me now. I have begun to taper my schedule a bit. Did a solo 45 Sunday at a good clip. Started and ended in some rain, but it kept the humidity down and me a little cooler. Now my challenge is to just stay healthy and avoid getting a bug.

Thanks to all who have donated to R2R and for the great sharing of information. I hope both continue to grow as I begin getting ready, dare I say, for the next Century.

Pedal and Paddle