tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67759904072319418702024-02-18T21:25:25.675-08:00Espresso CycleCycling, Espresso, Travel, Food, and more.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04536766202741078838noreply@blogger.comBlogger58125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6775990407231941870.post-52610861973300107972013-08-04T18:34:00.000-07:002016-01-31T10:42:44.571-08:002013 CCCX CR #9 - P123<b><u><span class="il">Race</span>:</u> CCCX CR #9 P12</b><br />
<b>Course: </b>90min
on the original Fort Ord course, some of everything but not too much of
anything. Just what I like (keeps my mind busy while legs are
screaming).<br />
<div>
</div>
<div>
<u><b>Result:</b></u> <a href="http://instagram.com/p/ckiswZFRBe/#" target="_blank">http://instagram.com/p/<wbr></wbr>ckiswZFRBe/#</a><b><br />1st Place!</b></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQIO6EoEWSI8bwbvKLdRVa6o3RN9LTR4pBZnd2_pskTnzEaa96LQbS2KVxEOBfY4B3llDEE5zIoZlEMRoUfkiYSO7z0u4HJ5b899tf0xWKP3W656Mn_nD93W5WjiAR8edBZOEq_ekDABI/s1600/cccx_013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQIO6EoEWSI8bwbvKLdRVa6o3RN9LTR4pBZnd2_pskTnzEaa96LQbS2KVxEOBfY4B3llDEE5zIoZlEMRoUfkiYSO7z0u4HJ5b899tf0xWKP3W656Mn_nD93W5WjiAR8edBZOEq_ekDABI/s320/cccx_013.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<u><b><span class="il">Report</span>:</b></u>
Only ~15 riders showed up today for the P123, but included Eamon
(CalGiant) fresh of his BIG Win at SRT, Ranier & Nick from TMB,
Randy B. (Leopard), Byron A. (DBC) and Logan Loader's roommate Thibault
representing France Thibault plus a few riders that were on the podium
in the E2/3 <span class="il">race</span>. So I figured my best chances are from a break that does not include Randy or Rainer.</div>
<div>
At the start I find a Cliff, Mario, and Scott fresh of their podium in the <span class="il">race</span> before. So bar was set high and they seemed in great spirits and simply told me to win. Thanks for the motivation guys. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Attacks started flying from the gun</b>:
After several attacks from just all over the place Eamon goes solo
establishes a gap n the false flat after the tailwind climb, I jump hard
and bridge. On the main rollers into the headwind Thibault joins us.
Great we have some major horsepower, but there is equal horsepower
behind us and still 85minutes left in the <span class="il">race</span>!!!
By the front-side tailwind rollers we have a good gap but Chris Cain
(hot off his E2/3 win) is bridging solo. We decide to wait since one
more rider will really help our TTT effort and we assume he will not be
there at the very end since he is on <span class="il">race</span> #2.
After a lap or two of Thibault really punching it on all the climbs,
Eamon has had enough and decides to sit up since the pack is on our
heals and the pace had been pretty surgey and unpleasant. At this time
Chris is yo-yo-ing but I convince Thibault to take longer pulls rather
than harder pulls and give Chis some time to recover. Chris hangs tough
for another lap or two before giving us some encouragement and sitting
up. <br />
<br />
<b>Two Man Break:</b>The pack keeps coming in and out of sight, so
Thinbault and I just try to keep the gas on as much as we can and make
sure we hit all the climbs pretty hard. We had to do about half the <span class="il">race</span>
as a two-man break and for the last 2-3 laps we had a small chase group
of about 2 or three trying to bridge that was pretty close at times. We
worked well together and didn't play any games until half way through
the last lap when we new the chasers were not going to catch. Thinbault
made one big attack on the final rollers, but I was expecting it and he
finally looked to be fading. I wanted him to be on the front for the
descent and finale since that is where I lost the <span class="il">race</span>
last time against Eamon on this course, so I went to the front and
guttered him for the final mile or so before the descent gave a flick of
the elbow so hopefully he would out of courtesy take over after my long
effort. Unfortunately he was content to sit on.<br />
<br />
<b>The Finale:</b> So the games began. I hit the final descent at a
tempo effort before swinging off to the right so he would have to come
around into the wind. Again he just waits, as we get closer to the final
corner I ease off the gas to loosen up the legs and stay right so I can
see him out of the corner of my eye. Now it is almost like a match
sprint. I watch to see how close I can get to the corner before he opens
it up. He never jumps so I jump just before the corner and get the
inside line and give it all I got. This was at lower speeds than normal
so I make sure not to get too trigger happy with the shifting knowing
the final kick before the line can really bog you down if your
over-geared. Sure enough Thibault comes around slowly before the road
kicks up. I just give it as much as I can to keep the gear from slowing.
The tables turn again and Thinbault begins to fade slightly as<b> I keep my gear spinning to the line and take the Win by about a wheel length</b>. Chris C. snapped a video of the sprint <u><b><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G5DF42r0jLY&feature=youtu.be" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?<wbr></wbr>v=G5DF42r0jLY&feature=youtu.be</a></b></u> It is not pretty but we had just done a 90min TTT effort.</div>
<div>
<u><b>Date Geek Info:</b></u> <a href="http://app.strava.com/activities/72008447" target="_blank">http://app.strava.com/<wbr></wbr>activities/72008447</a> </div>
<div>
Time: 1hr27min</div>
<div>
Dist: 34.4mi</div>
<div>
Elevation: 2887ft</div>
Norm Power: 279w (254w Ave) setting new power PRs from 60min thru 90minAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04536766202741078838noreply@blogger.com0Fort Ord National Monument, Salinas, CA, USA36.6208545 -121.7705316000000336.518885 -121.93189310000002 36.722824 -121.60917010000003tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6775990407231941870.post-41303958134068391322013-07-22T18:30:00.000-07:002016-01-31T11:04:45.680-08:002013 Little City Stage Race - Pro 1/2<div>
<div>
<div>
<div>
<div>
<div>
<b>Little City Stage <span class="il">Race</span> (actually an Omnium)</b></div>
<div>
Pro1/2 field of 25 rolling solo for SquadraSF.<b> </b>While many teammates were up North at an Epic stage <span class="il">race</span> in Oregon, I chose to do a pretty low key event Stage <span class="il">Race</span>
and visit my Aunt/Uncle who live about 10min from all 3 stages. Despite
the weather forecast it was an awesome 2-day event just a few hours
from the Bay Area.<br />
<b><br />Stage 1: 10mile TT</b></div>
Out and back course at an
elevation of 5,500ft with a gradual decent on the way out and slight
headwind and false flat on way back. I went off at 11:30am and it was
already in the 90s. I did my best not to overdue it on the way out and
try to pick it up a bit on the way back. I ended up gaining on the two
ahead of me which was promising, and feel I paced it pretty well
considering the altitude and heat.<b> Clocked a 20:52 good enough for 15th and 3 omnium points.</b> </div>
<b>Stage 2: 60min Crit</b></div>
<div>
Pretty fun 6 corner crit. Our start was at 3pm and it was well over 100degrees for this <span class="il">race</span>. They started the <span class="il">race</span>
off with 3 hot laps for $100, $75, then $50. Unfortunately, due to the
dry heat my contacts completely dried out waiting at the start line so I
had to sit off the back due to lack of vision and blink repeatedly for
these "hot laps." The omnium scoring makes for interesting tactics. I
played it pretty conservative and just sat in the bunch waiting for
dangerous moves to form. About half way through the <span class="il">race</span>
two Chris & Nate (Marc-Pro), Pete (Cliff Bar), and Vincent Owens
are up the road. The pack was clearly unsure if they should chase. All
those guys are motors and Chuck was happy to let them go since Chris was
2nd on GC and Carling had missed the move. I was pretty confident this
move would stick.<br />
<br />
The gap stayed at 10-15 seconds for a few laps then Brite-Sport puts
a few guys on the front, I get on the wheel of their last rider. I knew
as soon as he was done the pack would loose it's organization and
motivation once again, so as soon as pulls off I jump hard from the
front and go all in to bridge across. It took almost a full lap, but I
just barely made it. WOW the heat makes it hard to recover, I was on the
limit for a few laps, but slowly began to come around and helped my
break-mates. The 5 of us stay away until the finish, Chris H-D attacks
after I take a pull with 1.5laps to go. I could not immediately respond,
Nate waits, I try to jump across, but fear of getting swarmed by my
companions limits my commitment and I swing off about half way across to
Chris. Pete takes over and does one hell of a leadout almost shutting
down the gap. Chris just holds off our group, I open up the sprint out
of the last corner but <a href="http://instagram.com/p/cAubPJlRDq/" target="_blank">Nate beats me by a wheel</a>. Considering the heat and bridge effort I am pretty happy with <b>3rd Place</b>, netting a bunch of omnium points and <b>moving up to 8th on GC.</b>
Of course now it is so easy to look back and ask "what if I fully
committed to jump across to Chris" but should-a, could-a, would-a.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-7XeH1AfgAHQMG-FTHkVmhR7O6wKtpLGXJIkn5xrtY_4QszxWIcMh8oG4DxPfJxVWelpmoT3WfZrgbddjS3UWzjWtglupsBJH0N4mLpyhS4SBVVCSc9qhDWXK30NrGzvWtSLV9gNh4fg/s1600/IMG_3619.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-7XeH1AfgAHQMG-FTHkVmhR7O6wKtpLGXJIkn5xrtY_4QszxWIcMh8oG4DxPfJxVWelpmoT3WfZrgbddjS3UWzjWtglupsBJH0N4mLpyhS4SBVVCSc9qhDWXK30NrGzvWtSLV9gNh4fg/s320/IMG_3619.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<b>Stage 3: 66mile Road <span class="il">Race</span></b></div>
11mile
loop with two short power climbs and long false flat drag w/ crosswinds
towards finish. Again heat was the biggest challenge. The course is
hard, but I was more worried about the heat. I started with ice in my
jersey pockets and grabbed partially frozen bottles each lap which were a
life saver. Again omnium tactics would dictate the <span class="il">race</span>.
At the end of Lap 2 attacks were coming hard and fast. I marked several
dangerous ones but everything was coming back. Then when I decide to
mark a few less to save some matches sure enough one goes that includes,
Chuck (Marc-Pro), Trafton (TMB), and Pete (Cliff). I still remember
being near the front when the gap was still bridgable (much smaller gap
than in yesterday's crit), but for some reason I didn't commit. This was
probably my biggest mistake of the entire weekend. Since Brite-Sport
and a few other teams missed the move I thought it would be coming back,
but I was wrong after our slow decent they already had 3minutes, it was
clear the break with motors like that was gone. <br />
<br />
For some reason I was marked extremely close and any attempts over
the final laps to get away with a few others were shut down. On the last
lap, the field was now <span class="il">racing</span> for 5th since
Dave Mesa was allowed to slip away on the previous lap. The last time up
the climbs my legs started to lock up, the pace was nothing crazy, but
the heat had finally gotten to me. Instead of pushing them until they
completely locked up (that could have been the smartest or 2nd worst
decision of the day) I backed off the gas and had to finish the last
5miles solo crossing the line in 16th just behind the "field" which had
really slowed down and seemed to be doing match sprints and track stands
near the finish. <br />
<br /></div>
<b>Results:</b></div>
Overall I ended up <b>11th in Omnium</b>, not exactly what I had hoped but glad I grabbed <b>3rd in the Crit</b>. The road <span class="il">race</span>
built some character for sure and gives me a upper limit of what kind
of temperatures I can handle. The omnium scoring does suit me much
better than a normal stage <span class="il">race</span> and the courses were great so if the weather is in the 80s next year I will be there for sure.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04536766202741078838noreply@blogger.com0Gardnerville, NV, USA38.9412959 -119.7496216000000138.8918924 -119.83030260000001 38.9906994 -119.66894060000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6775990407231941870.post-50314318877673693512013-07-14T18:26:00.000-07:002014-03-22T18:27:57.900-07:002013 Foothill College Circuit Race - pro 1/2<div>
<div>
<div>
<div>
<div>
<u><b><span class="il">Race</span>:</b></u> <b>Foothill College Circuit <span class="il">Race</span> P12</b></div>
<b>Course: </b>60min and description per promoters webpage, "Course is
a clock-wise 1.09 mi. loop around
Foothill College campus, on good,
clean pavement. 60 feet of climbing
per lap. <b>Start/Finish on <u>top of hill
at the pedestrian bridge</u></b>."this will be relevant later ;)<br />
</div>
<u><b>Teammates:</b></u> Tim L., Sean S., Carmi, Matt A., Lee P, Jesse C., Pablo E. and myself. Awesome crew!<br /></div>
<div>
<u><b>Results:</b></u><b> </b><a href="http://instagram.com/p/bxbFOxlRAp/#" target="_blank">http://instagram.com/p/<wbr></wbr>bxbFOxlRAp/#</a><br />
</div>
<div>
<b>2nd</b> - James<b>, 7th</b> - Lee<b>, </b>top 15 for Matt (forgot to get a photo of the results)</div>
<div>
<br />
</div>
<u><b>How it went down:</b></u> Over 40
riders showed up at the start line, Lots of solo heavy hitters, and
several squads such as Leopard-Sapporo & Lombardi having a handful
of riders. Our plan was to be active, we better be we had a lot of guys
in this <span class="il">race</span>! Pretty open ended plan of marking
moves and making sure we have someone in every move, with Matt &
myself (if my legs had any snap in them today) being our sprinters if it
came down to a field sprint.<br />
<b><br /></b></div>
<b>Early:</b> Riders took a lap or two to get the lay
of the land and then it was pretty much attack after attack. SquadraSF
was simply in every move that mattered. If we somehow missed it which
was <span class="il">race</span> someone would either bridge to it or tighten the screws at the front and let the pack real them in. <b>This
was a great display of our strength, Natalie (my wife) was on the
sidelines watching and said the announcer was always mentioning
SquadraSF and that we ALWAYS had someone in the move!</b> Having so many
teammates being active was great, I could follow an attack that made
sense based on my location in the pack relative to my teammates and how
gassed I was at the time. I honestly can say every single rider on our
crew was up the road at some point. Made my <span class="il">racing</span> less nervous and tactics much easier.<br />
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
All the early moves were brought back quickly since the <span class="il">race</span>
was pretty much full gas, but after the mid-point you could tell that
people were getting tired the pace would let up more often, This
couldn't have happened at a better time because all of my early moves
were brought back pretty quick and I would be immediately sent to the
back of the pack to lick my wounds. A little demoralized I decided to
continue simply marking moves and told Matt he is our guy for the
Sprint. <br />
<br /><b>Final Break</b>: With about 7 to go, Rob S. (Fremont Bank) and
another rider are given a bit of a leash on the first hill, I move up
knowing they have some firepower and bridge across over the finish hill.
Next time up the hill the other rider gets popped and I give some
encouraging words to Rob saying we got a pretty big gap lets go for it.
After a lap or two the gap is about the same but Rob Evans (BearDev)
bridged solo. The three of us work together pretty well, we can hear
time checks over the loudspeaker, ranging from 10-20seconds, about one
turn ahead of the pack. My teammates did a amazing job patrolling the
front, Natalie recalls seeing Lee & Carmi on the front clearly
holding thier ground up there but riding a false tempo. Word on the
street is Pat Briggs brought it back almost within reach on the final
lap then handed it over to anyone else and everyone just looked at
each-other for that split second. <br />
</div>
<div>
<b>Finale: </b>About that same time, I had just done a
final hard pull up the main climb and try to get Rob or Rob to take the
final decent. They hesitate, I give some more encouragement that they
are right on our tail and gonna catch us if we mess around. So Rob takes
the decent and I jump on his wheel, Evans on mine. I jump hard at the
bottom of the decent and start the long sprint to the "start/finish on
top of hill
at the pedestrian bridge", I have the inside line and
legs have some pop left in them and am able to spin it up pretty good...
fly under the pedestrian bridge where the finish was in 2011 & 2012
with Evans still behind me, I stop pedaling after passing the
pedestrian bridge thinking the <span class="il">race</span> is over,<span></span><span></span> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10201695615258239&set=at.10201695614978232.1073741841.1415731789.100001226861339.1508223026.6408464.6400557.1219440264.653517642&type=1&theater" target="_blank">sit straight up, and throw an arm up</a>.
Announcer even calls it that I won, then I realize Evans is still going
full gas and his front wheel just passes mine at the 2nd tent which
happened to be the one with the finish line and camera 50m past the
initial tent and pedestrian bridge. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10201695616138261&set=at.10201695614978232.1073741841.1415731789.100001226861339.1508223026.6408464.6400557.1219440264.653517642&type=1&theater" target="_blank">OHH NO I DID NOT JUST DO THAT.....YES I DID</a>,
luckily it wasn't much farther than the old finish line so my momentum
carried me fast enough to still only miss the win by less than one
wheel, but SHIT that is one hard lesson.<b> Happy with 2nd Place</b> for
sure but it definitely not a WIN that was almost in my pocket. Don't
assume anything and pay attention to important details such as where the
finish line tape it.<br />
</div>
<div>
Anyways the pack was literally on our heels, Tim was
leading out Matt and got boxed in. Lee freelanced his way to 4th in the
field good enough for <b>7th Place </b>with Matt just a little farther back somewhere in the top 10 or so in the field sprint<b>. Again SquadraSF was by far the most active team and was mentioned more than any other team during the <span class="il">race</span>.</b>
Despite my finish line location F-up I think it was a victory for the
team as a whole. Natalie watched the whole thing and was really
impressed by the entire SquadraSF crew!<br />
<br /> <b>Amateur Tip:</b> Primes are a great way to open up the legs, test
the final sprint, and practice your line for the final sprint. Going for
a prime earlier would have been a perfect place to make my mistake. </div>
<u><br /></u>
<div>
<u><b>Data Geek Info:</b></u> Strava File - <a href="http://app.strava.com/activities/67179655" target="_blank">http://app.strava.com/<wbr></wbr>activities/67179655</a><br />Time: ~60min<br />Distance: ~26mi<br />Elevation Gain: 1840ft<br />
Power: 285w NP w/ 235w Ave.</div>
Final Break was ~15min w/ 308w NP & 296w AveAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04536766202741078838noreply@blogger.com0Foothill College, 12345 El Monte Road, Los Altos Hills, CA 94022, USA37.360308 -122.1267050000000237.347687 -122.14687500000001 37.372929000000006 -122.10653500000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6775990407231941870.post-61191925724500823262013-07-13T18:23:00.000-07:002016-01-30T11:15:45.145-08:002013 Watsonville Crit - Pro 1/2<div>
<div>
<div>
<div>
<div>
<u><b><span class="il">Race</span>:</b></u> <b>Watsonville Crit P12</b></div>
<b>Course: </b>58
lap = 35miles on Technical course! Almost always setting up for a turn,
the one long straight was into a headwind. Discription per VeloPromo, "<span style="font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;">0.75 mile loop of smooth pavement, with many turns, dips at the corners and a small hill to the finish line."</span></div>
<u><b>Teammates:</b></u> Tim & Sean.</div>
<div>
<u><b>Results:</b></u><b> </b><a href="http://instagram.com/p/bwjY2zFROZ/" target="_blank">http://instagram.com/p/<wbr></wbr>bwjY2zFROZ/</a> </div>
<div>
<b>2nd</b> - James<b>, 8th</b> - Sean<b>, 10th </b>- Tim</div>
<div>
NOTE these guys sacrificed their result to ensure I was guaranteed 2nd and I could focus on going for the W.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<u><b>How it went down:</b></u> About 20
riders showed up at the start line, Cal Giant had Tobin & Eamon,
Brandon Trafton was solo for TMB, Zipz had three but were on the 2nd <span class="il">race</span> of the day. So it was clear Cal Giant and SquadraSF would be dictating the <span class="il">race</span>.<br />
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguAJfagcLnUVPiq2PChN52wV2TKOGZn-qRYJXd54FUzkonts66M8AfeVxLZMUSibH7-1DWN1aKxReMnqmK_hZAq5H5hVOrQ9DVs2w0SdQSyTNV_b5pHAXM-Ape-q3fn-jn02TJJ-EuLV8/s1600/Watsonville+02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguAJfagcLnUVPiq2PChN52wV2TKOGZn-qRYJXd54FUzkonts66M8AfeVxLZMUSibH7-1DWN1aKxReMnqmK_hZAq5H5hVOrQ9DVs2w0SdQSyTNV_b5pHAXM-Ape-q3fn-jn02TJJ-EuLV8/s320/Watsonville+02.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>Early:</b> Sean and Tim were active early marking
moves as I got the hang of the course. I had heard how technical it was
so kinda eased my way into the course to dial it in. Brandon, Tobin, and
Jan (Zipz) and a few other riders were anxious to get things started
off fast so the first few laps were pretty damn hard and actually
dropped a few riders. After things settled down a bit I moved my way up
and it was clear that Brandon was either going to be in a break or he
would be the first to bring it back. After many different combinations,
finally I the pack letting Jan, Tobin, Brandon, Chris (Don Chapin),
& myself get a gap. So with Cal Giant, Zipz, & Squadra
represented I was pretty confident we could stay away if we wanted.
Everyone worked hard to establish a gap, but we never got into a really
good rhythm, one guy would attack, someone skip a pull due to the
attack, or then someone would be upset about how much work others we
doing. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOfu6ExIiMUVAgKIogp-8csdPqD7yD69ozOpC-Dhsx9jhZaUVCuaAI2iKqsOPLjGSwQeiiS5L4Ywbx_sUbK_B3bi5XEKEZGKw4loIM1kDwaTUwWwZn2dk4EEuWKAjlTlfIDR9zhZL_KQU/s1600/Watsonville+05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOfu6ExIiMUVAgKIogp-8csdPqD7yD69ozOpC-Dhsx9jhZaUVCuaAI2iKqsOPLjGSwQeiiS5L4Ywbx_sUbK_B3bi5XEKEZGKw4loIM1kDwaTUwWwZn2dk4EEuWKAjlTlfIDR9zhZL_KQU/s320/Watsonville+05.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
<b>Break</b>: After dealing with the dysfunctional
break for sometime, Chris was gone, Tobin hits it hard, I jump hard out
of one of the corners to close it and Jan and Brandon look at each
other. Jan was riding like a machine and just won the 35+ <span class="il">race</span>
a few hours earlier, and Brandon, I guess wanted to take Jan out of the
break and jump back across. So I give Tobin and I just ride our limit
and soon the two behind disappear. With about 10 to go we catch the
pack, Tobin had attacked me when the pack was in a bridgeable distance. I
was not about to let the <span class="il">race</span> get away from me
so I dug as hard as I could to get the the field. Eamon went to the
front to try to make that junction a little tougher and Sean and Tim
drop back a bit motivation and make sure I make contact and get out of
that wind!</div>
<div>
I anticipated this <span class="il">race</span> being
about 70min, but we were 70min in and still had 10 laps to go! I had
been on the verge of cramping in my left calf. Tim & Sean keep me
protected and let me recover a bit as Tobin and Eamon go off the front
again! Tim and Sean rotate hitting the front to keep the Cal Giants in
check and make sure Brandon & Jan don't catch onto the field.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjryAUv5n0wBufrtJfUhznBKtlPuCe8mhiAwVadIz7uAv65q1nGHaRP1wuXjM_giRo4XeoA_Z9qwlsC46lVGGDqKIIPxPVfzaNQftyQePpK30eI9-PsQ5LM1nS5hyBVjl-ENXFucr9qfSQ/s1600/Watsonville+03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjryAUv5n0wBufrtJfUhznBKtlPuCe8mhiAwVadIz7uAv65q1nGHaRP1wuXjM_giRo4XeoA_Z9qwlsC46lVGGDqKIIPxPVfzaNQftyQePpK30eI9-PsQ5LM1nS5hyBVjl-ENXFucr9qfSQ/s320/Watsonville+03.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Finale:</b> Eamon takes it from 3 laps to go, Tobin
2nd me 3rd wheel. Unfortunately my legs were on their limit and anytime
we really punched it my legs would start to seize. Tim and Sean on my
wheel keeping others from swarming making the finale of the <span class="il">race</span>
the least stressful part of the whole event. The sprint opens up
exiting the final corner and up the hill, all I could do was sit in
Tobin's slipstream and cross 3rd or 4th in the field <b>good enough for
2nd Place. Sean gets 3rd or 4th in the field after taking care of me all
day which is good enough for 8th, Tim just behind in 10th.</b></div>
<div>
I gotta say having strong, savvy teammates, really makes tactics and <span class="il">racing</span>
less stressful. When I needed a breather early, they would be marking
the moves, when I was up the road, they were on the front patrolling,
then in the finale the shepherded me to Tobin's wheel, hoping I would
have the legs to jump him in the corner and take the Win, kinda bummed I
couldn't finish it off for them, but really happy with the result. When
I crossed the line and got off the bike my back seized up. So I think
it is safe to say I left it all out there.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5t3C-EYa6s0IcXn5tWMLivR2HctuLQeCCZBOJ5nqtjUivWXWyaVLC4p9NinUcfWJSZlWViPdgUKHl7qN6dHSnuKRLsGR6C0kFFwffVaV7lTyBx9dFLnJ4uZ05I3Pa4wdmO4b-bPv1V3Q/s1600/Watsonville+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5t3C-EYa6s0IcXn5tWMLivR2HctuLQeCCZBOJ5nqtjUivWXWyaVLC4p9NinUcfWJSZlWViPdgUKHl7qN6dHSnuKRLsGR6C0kFFwffVaV7lTyBx9dFLnJ4uZ05I3Pa4wdmO4b-bPv1V3Q/s320/Watsonville+01.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Sorry for the long <span class="il">report</span>, but wanted to share how great it was having a small yet organized team out there kicking ass. </div>
<u><br /></u><u><b>Data Geek Info:</b></u> Strava File - <a href="http://app.strava.com/activities/66914779" target="_blank">http://app.strava.com/<wbr></wbr>activities/66914779</a><br />
Time: ~90min<br />
Distance: ~38mi<br />
Elevation Gain: 750ft<br />
Power: 273w NP w/ 247w Ave.....OUCH which set a new power PR for 60-90minAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04536766202741078838noreply@blogger.com0Watsonville, CA, USA36.910231 -121.7568946000000136.8086755 -121.91825610000001 37.011786500000007 -121.59553310000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6775990407231941870.post-15437808389755333292013-06-16T18:20:00.000-07:002016-01-31T11:08:22.504-08:002013 CCCX #7 - P123<div>
<b><span class="il">Race</span>: CCCX #7 - Fort Ord Circuit <span class="il">Race</span></b><br />
<b>Field: </b>P123 w/ ~15 starters.</div>
<div>
<b>Teammates: </b>None, but they killed it in the E2/3 <span class="il">race</span> taking 2nd, 3rd, 4th & 6th!!! Can't wait to read that <span class="il">report</span>!</div>
<div>
<b>Result:</b> <b>2nd Place</b><br />
<a href="http://app.strava.com/activities/60864741" target="_blank">Strava File</a></div>
<div>
<br />
After
missing a few races due to stress, traffic, burnout & hectic
schedule I was excited to try to get back at my favorite Low Key event
in the NCNCA....but then I somehow remembered I forgot my shoes after
getting on the 280!!! So my long warmup and stress free Sunday was no
more, but there were plenty of teammates around when I arrived to help
me get my life back together and get ready to <span class="il">race</span> (despite no warm up)!!!<br />
<br />
<b>Lap 1: </b>Everyone (even Eamon) said they wanted to take it easy for the first half the <span class="il">race</span>
but Eamon off his European campaign had other plans. Metro-Mint had
several riders, BearDev had 2 and we were off, but after only 3min we
were already hitting the first climb pretty good to test how everyone is
feeling.<br />
<br />
<b>Lap 2:</b> BearDev sprinter Matt sneaks away clearly setting up
his teammate Sam to get a free ride. On the tailwind climb Lucas brings
it back and hits it as we pass Matt. I keep it going on the false flat
to drop the biggest threat in a sprint out of the <span class="il">race</span>.
On the backside rollers Sam puts in a good attack while I am at the
back, I wait, but then see Eamon putting the hammer down over the top of
Sam. I had no choice but to go the long way around into the wind, but
this at least kept anyone from getting onto my wheel. When Eamon checks
the damage, I hit the front and add some more. Sam fades on the false
flat and the group behind is splitting up. <br />
<br />
<b>Lap 3-7:</b> So with 75min left to <span class="il">race</span>
we are more than happy to share the workload. It actually works out
great, I have a great draft & motor do less work on the flats and I
hit most of the climbs keeping the pace up. After about 30min into our
effort we ease up a bit and ride tempo since the chasers were not in
sight, some riders had pulled out and were now watching and we lapped a
handful of riders who had thrown in the towel.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXtT4ZjM_OcUQqq7KItLF_IKh9mN6yRGu_uLwxXl08tErQPCtWSKOzILpk2Mlbl66T3R9pciEM3ivjYQngjHan7EXCgn8fynKXdg4gnyskwFp5RsYY-y-D9PkimIXqbFg3EfuGDA2IrAI/s1600/IMG_3105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXtT4ZjM_OcUQqq7KItLF_IKh9mN6yRGu_uLwxXl08tErQPCtWSKOzILpk2Mlbl66T3R9pciEM3ivjYQngjHan7EXCgn8fynKXdg4gnyskwFp5RsYY-y-D9PkimIXqbFg3EfuGDA2IrAI/s320/IMG_3105.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Final Lap: </b>David Mesa (Chica Sexy) was one
persistent MFer. He takes advantage of our confidence and catches us as
we come into the bell lap. Props Dave! Now the games started. On the
steep section of the tailwind climb I hit it as hard as I can. This pops
Dave, but Eamon sits on. I end up playing the odds game vs going purely
for the win. Having Dave in the finale would have bettered my chances
for the Win, but could cost me 2nd. Eamon's Dad was watching and he
wanted revenge from CCCX #3 when I got him in the sprint. So Eamon makes
me take us ALL the way through the rollers and decent. Cat and mouse
ensues before the final turn, we are basically track standing. In the
match sprint I have the inside line, but Eamon has the better jump and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151486196207475&set=p.10151486196207475&type=1&theater" target="_blank">gets the Win for his dad</a>. After a weird month or so of riding/<span class="il">racing</span> I am happy with 2nd, but if there is a re-match before the end of the season I will be aiming for the Win.<br />
<u><br /></u>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjARCS6ldj3AZV1MPDnkF62DmzwuDupJ8t3JIVrM8MAh9OJWsG8nphd-7EEd2cY1X8Dfsz2v3D-lPqiNvwO18r37tnkKnGU0nQeTXi6BEcaF88Z-mQ3OJtOBfTyEIiI2S7KPnlhZ3Gv7z8/s1600/IMG_3094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjARCS6ldj3AZV1MPDnkF62DmzwuDupJ8t3JIVrM8MAh9OJWsG8nphd-7EEd2cY1X8Dfsz2v3D-lPqiNvwO18r37tnkKnGU0nQeTXi6BEcaF88Z-mQ3OJtOBfTyEIiI2S7KPnlhZ3Gv7z8/s320/IMG_3094.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<u><br /><a href="http://instagram.com/p/ao-GoUFRPY/#" target="_blank">Podium Shot</a><br /><br /><b>Data Geek Info:</b></u> <br />
Time: 90min Dist: 8laps = 34.4mi Norm Power 267w ( w/ 233w ave)</div>
Almost
identical to CCCX #3 when I was in the lead group w/ Eamon, Bryan Duke,
and Chris Cain except this time I was the bridesmaid. <br />
CCCX #3 Time: 88min Dist: 34.4mi Norm Power: 265w (w/ 229w ave)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04536766202741078838noreply@blogger.com0Fort Ord National Monument, Salinas, CA, USA36.6208545 -121.7705316000000336.518885 -121.93189310000002 36.722824 -121.60917010000003tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6775990407231941870.post-22004512933876295542013-05-05T18:14:00.000-07:002016-01-31T11:09:38.112-08:002013 Panoche Valley RR - Pro 1/2<div>
<div>
<div>
Similar to last year, SquadraSF sent a few riders out to this somewhat local road-<span class="il">race</span> with terrain for everyone. This year we were hoping to turn our luck around.</div>
<b><span class="il">Race</span>:</b> Panoche Valley RR <a href="http://panochevalley.org/" target="_blank">http://panochevalley.org/</a></div>
<b>Course/Strava File: </b><a href="http://app.strava.com/activities/52614030" target="_blank">http://app.strava.com/<wbr></wbr>activities/52614030</a></div>
<b>Crew: </b>Lee P., Jesse C., Giuseppe E., Jason T, an myself all came out for the P1/2 <span class="il">race</span>.<br />
<div>
<b>Result: 1st Place!</b><br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Weather: </b>Perfect temps but
extreme winds (blowing in the opposite direction than usual) headwind
out, cross tailwind back, with the 5 mile stretch on either side of the
turnaround having the usual crazy crosswinds.</div>
<div>
<b><span class="il">Report</span>:</b> The notable guys
to watch were Eric Wohlberg (DS of Optum, 3 time
Olympian, ?x Canadian national champ....), Shawn R (TMB), and about 6
Marc-Pro Stava guys. So about 25 starters rolled out into an insane
headwind, it was actually kinda sketchy due to everyone trying to avoid
the wind yet stay near the front and do no work. The first portion of
the early main climb was mellow, but as the climb got steeper it became
more isolated and the attackes started coming, a few early ones no one
paid any attention to then Marc Pro hits it and the pace goes from
moderate to hard as hell. A selection was made here, I had to jump
across a gap after someone a few wheels in front of me lost contact.
Things looked good with Lee and I making the selection but towards the
top Lee's knee started acting up and he had to cool the jets. Jason,
Giuseppe, and Jesse, were farther back when this split happened so I was
alone in a group of about 8 or so. Since the odds were not in Squadra's
favor at this point I tried to balance not doing any work and keeping
my break-mates happy. </div>
<div>
When we hit the 90deg left into the cross wind, I hit the front hard knowing this is where the <span class="il">race</span>
got torn to pieces last year. Eventually Eric put in a big dig that I
immediately jumped on. Eric basically did a HUGE 3-5min effort with me
doing everything I could to ride the edge of the gutter and try stay in
his draft. We (or more like he) opened a pretty big gap and I though
this may stick, but it eventually came back closer to the top of the
false flat just with a few less riders in tow. At the turnaround, the
main field was actually coming back to our group, probably less than
30sec behind, From what I later found out, Jason, Giuseppe, and Jesse
who were caught out in second group on the main climb expected the chase
group to have no problem bring our group back, but it appeared everyone
was either faking it or tired in their group and they had to do most
the work to close it to a bridgeable distance. <br />
<br />
Just after the turnaround Mark, Eric again puts everyone in the
gutter and only Art and I stay with him. Over the top Evan Rudd
(Freemont Bank) latches on. So now Teeter (MPS) and Taylor (MPS) are
together up the road with about a 1minute gap and only a small gap to
group behind. Teeter flats, but our group is clearly tired now, the odds
are much better so I put my head down with Eric and Evan, Art is just
sitting on since he has 1 teammate up the road. Eric and I doing most
the work bring the gap down before the main climb. I hit the climb
pretty hard in a few spots and Evan fades, but Taylor pushes on solo.
Finally on the final few rollers we bring back Taylor, Eric hits it
really hard over the top of me to make sure we punch Taylor's ticket and
don't have to deal with (2) MPS guys in the finale. </div>
<div>
Success, with just over 15mi to go it is just the (3) of us <span class="il">racing</span>
for the win. Honestly I was content waiting for the 3 up sprint, but
since Art had been sitting on ALL DAY as he should have, it was time for
Eric and I to work him over a bit. Eric put in a bit attack, Art closes
it as expected, the pace slows, I counter, this time Art looks at Eric
and Eric just looks right back. I open up a pretty big gap quickly, and
think I might have a chance, a few miles into this effort, the moto
comes up yelling 20seconds, then I see the 10km to go sign, this almost
took the legs out from under me, I honestly thought there was like a
mile or two left. But I just keep saying to myself, its a tailwind, they
will be unorganized, its a tailwind, I can do this, this is my chance
at a solo win (I HAVE NEVER WON SOLO BEFORE). Next thing I know the ref
says 30second but I still have about 5mi left. At 5km to go I see some
riders in the distance, so I give it everything I got over the last
roller to look like I have fresh legs and to try to get out of sight
again. Finally I see the 1km to go sign, still kind of in shock that
this might actually happen. Sure enough<b> I cross the line for the Win with no one in sight</b>, unfortunately it was too windy to do a no hand salute like Dr. Wolfgang, but eh I'll take it! </div>
<div>
Prize money was actually pretty good so I took the
SquadraSF crew (P1/2 and E3) to some Mexican food in Tres Pinos. Service
was not the best, food was good, and great to hand with everyone after
the <span class="il">race</span>.</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo9OYAXxjs5OXsV7wZLMH1wW8dCSYXKIIQqJzQv9P1OZld9KkExVH1X75nnwFTn6IPSAVO6_cS6DM-XjFTkqS1h-plLyrSC-k-6TjKpo54-YnuxRUAUBTLIGPcOOVoC1CA5G0xW7jhYWY/s1600/IMG_1888.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo9OYAXxjs5OXsV7wZLMH1wW8dCSYXKIIQqJzQv9P1OZld9KkExVH1X75nnwFTn6IPSAVO6_cS6DM-XjFTkqS1h-plLyrSC-k-6TjKpo54-YnuxRUAUBTLIGPcOOVoC1CA5G0xW7jhYWY/s320/IMG_1888.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<u><b>Results:</b></u></div>
<div>
<b>1st </b>- James (me) <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=550520354998307&set=a.543100549073621.1073741828.259026304147715&type=1&theater" target="_blank">Podium Shot</a></div>
<div>
14th - Jason T (fitness is clearly coming back after his broken ankle, nice ride Jason, gonna be dangerous in a week or two!)</div>
<div>
16th - Jesse C (he said this was the longest ride he has done in 2 months so nice work buddy!)</div>
<div>
Lee, suffered some knee pain flare up which I hope is nothing
serious, but glad he didn't push through too much and will go get it
looked at in the next week or two.</div>
<div>
Giuseppe, unfortunately was taken out by some crazy situation
on the decent prior to the turnaround, but looked strong out there, and
was in that second group before the decent fiasco.</div>
<div>
<br clear="all" /></div>
<div>
<u><b>Date Geek Info:</b></u></div>
<div>
<b>Time:</b> 3:01 </div>
<div>
<b>Dist:</b> 67.5mi</div>
<div>
<b>Norm Power:</b> 248w</div>
<div>
<b><span class="il">Race</span> winning effort:</b> last 20min of <span class="il">race</span> at 272w Norm power, good thing I had a tailwind and there was some lack of companionship behind!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04536766202741078838noreply@blogger.com0Hollister, CA, USA36.8524545 -121.4016020999999936.7508225 -121.56296359999999 36.9540865 -121.24024059999999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6775990407231941870.post-24498357167900145822013-03-31T18:09:00.000-07:002016-01-31T11:13:52.546-08:002013 Copperopolis RR - Pro 1/2<div>
<div>
<div>
<div>
<u><b><span class="il">Race</span>:</b></u> Copperopolis one of the true NorCal classics!<br />
<br />
<u><b>Result:</b></u> <b>10th</b> (good enough for a coveted teeshirt), 22nd or so for Lee and Kurt/Matt sacrificing themselves early.<br />
<br />
<u><b>Course:</b></u> 21+mile loop x 5 yes 5 so that makes about 110miles and almost 9000ft of climbing on fair to bad pavement.<br />
<br />
<u><b><span class="il">Report</span>:</b></u> You can find the general NorCalCyclingNews coverage <a href="http://norcalcyclingnews.com/2013/03/30/smith-and-leece-overcome-black-hail-at-copperopolis/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
But here is how it went down from a SquadraSF perspective. We had
Kurt, Lee, Matt & myself. Tim Larkin has won this beast of a <span class="il">race</span>
so we asked him for some advice and team strategy for our small but
strong squad. The plan was pretty simple Matt and Lee would cover early
moves just to take off the pressure a bit for Kurt and I to save our
energy for the later selections. Kurt came down with the stomach flu
early in the week and was on the mend by late in the week but he wasn't
sure how the legs/stomach would be <span class="il">race</span> day so we had to play that one by ear. <br />
<br />
The field was stacked. ~6 from CalGaint, ~8 from TMB, ~8 from
Marc-Pro,~5 from Bicycles Plus, and several other big names such as Kirk
Carlsen (ex Garmin pro-tour rider), Phil Mooney (pro/local legend),
Eric Wohlberg (ex Pro & Optum team manager), Logan Loader, and so
on. Our goal was a top 5 which in this field would be a big task (but we
gotta aim high) and we would be happy with a top 10.<br />
<br />
<b>Lap 1:</b> Almost immediately a Yannick (CalGiant) jumped. Matt
and I were near the front so Mat jumps with it before we even reach mile
1. <a href="http://acaurora.smugmug.com/2013-Races/2013-03-30-Copperopolis-Road/P12/28683077_wCh6zD#%21i=2433694743&k=gNZDPsT" target="_blank">This group</a> swelled to include several heavy hitters including Kirk Carlsen, Chuck, 1 MPS, Riggs (TMB), Tim (BearDev). Kurt and Lee were <a href="http://www.argentumimago.com/Sport/2013Q1/Copperopolis33rd/28414646_ZtWv4f#%21i=2433809482&k=SmQ24nt" target="_blank">monitoring the fron</a>t.<br />
<br />
<b>Lap 2:</b> Starting the first climb lap most of Matt's group was
brought back, shortly after a counter went towards the top of the first
main which shot some more big guns up the road, but the pack was still
fired up as it seemed most teams didn't like the odds yet. </div>
<div>
<b>Lap 3:</b> At the start of lap 3 Kurt attacks and is
joined by Adrian Costa, Keith (MPS), Riggs (TMB), and a CalGiant rider.
Lee turns to me soon after and says that is a "Money Break." As we
were cresting the main climb, Kurt get re-absorbed. There was a little
bunch up on the
undulating first climb, Kurt and Matt had to unclip right as the grade
got pretty steep and pace quickened. I had been
riding near Kirk Carlesn and Logan Loader with a plan to wait it out a
bit assuming they would bridge and jump on that train of pain, but soon
after they disappeared apparently both having flats. The odds were now
against us, we just had to hope that more riders would
pop since we still had like 60miles to <span class="il">race</span>.
TMB and Marc-Pro now like the odds and start riding false tempo at the
front Plan changed to simply pay
attention to any bridge efforts and keep the momentum in our group
going without wasting too much energy. Between the two main climbs Lee
and Matt kept me protected near the front and tried to keep the pace
going just a bit. We were not pulling everyone around but at least we
would come through when the pace slowed to keep the miles ticking away.</div>
<b>Lap 4:</b> Lee tries to get some life back into our group and <a href="http://acaurora.smugmug.com/2013-Races/2013-03-30-Copperopolis-Road/P12/28683077_wCh6zD#%21i=2433698803&k=XsFMFNN" target="_blank">attacks across the finish line</a>,
a group of 5 or so go clear with another 20 behind. The group includes
Teeter (MPS), Eric W., Cal Giant, and maybe Bicycles Plus. TMB misses
the move and seems that only Roman is left in the break as Steve Palez
yells at our group this time up the climb trying to instigate a chase.
Steve O'Mara (TMB) hits the climb pretty good our group shrinks and
riders continue to hit it along the reservoir. Before the 2nd climb Lee
and a few others from his break were brought back. The pace was pretty
aggressive on the climb prior to the decent and we lose a few more
riders.</div>
<b>Lap 5: </b>There were at least 10 riders ahead of the
"field" of about 20. We started to catch another field on the main climb
and re-absorbed all the riders in no mans land so Phil Mooney convinced
the group to ride it easy on the climb then take a pee break at the
top. After our little tea break Phil called game on and now that we were
on the flat/rolling sections he started attacking. From here until the
finish line attacks were flying all over the place. Half way through the
final lap a group of 7 or 8 separated ourselves from the remaining 15
or so in the "field" if you can even call it that at this point. On the
final climb there was some cat and mouse, CalGiant attacked, then I
attacked over the top of the climb, shrinking our group down to 5, 2
CalGaint, Joe (MPS), & Josh (Bycles Plus).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOsJJEK0KyYPSLZBU5TLoVUqCqUmrVxorFH_FLDVa2h1mw_TfuU0r7lhyphenhyphenS-biIdt1TmcuX_Vp3SR0G3fX4jobr76gM_GrTMjjQ03t5Q5l64QPOBo6WR2fWPGSgFIH8ilrQc3w5VWkQAsE/s1600/IMG_8930-2433702199-H.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOsJJEK0KyYPSLZBU5TLoVUqCqUmrVxorFH_FLDVa2h1mw_TfuU0r7lhyphenhyphenS-biIdt1TmcuX_Vp3SR0G3fX4jobr76gM_GrTMjjQ03t5Q5l64QPOBo6WR2fWPGSgFIH8ilrQc3w5VWkQAsE/s320/IMG_8930-2433702199-H.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhznkOij68kzHAxvPkkh8ZV7f6RbIm2fpRDyEUb1tH1AGoaxOdQk_ieCSQApHXXXL2gYc8DetktvQJv44B77b9WpBkAZuhkDgISA_HH1BfEQ-xeedhyEouvOHInUgo2Ryum-MDfStlLu8k/s1600/IMG_8932-2433702284-H.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhznkOij68kzHAxvPkkh8ZV7f6RbIm2fpRDyEUb1tH1AGoaxOdQk_ieCSQApHXXXL2gYc8DetktvQJv44B77b9WpBkAZuhkDgISA_HH1BfEQ-xeedhyEouvOHInUgo2Ryum-MDfStlLu8k/s320/IMG_8932-2433702284-H.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>The Finale:</b> At the bottom of the descent, Phil had caught our
group and it was now going to be a sprint of 6 for 8th on the day. I
opened up the sprint first, but the 2 known sprinters in the group Joe
and Josh came around me. I held on for <a href="http://acaurora.smugmug.com/2013-Races/2013-03-30-Copperopolis-Road/P12/28683077_wCh6zD#%21i=2433702284&k=QgnZ9b9&lb=1&s=L" target="_blank">3rd in our group</a> which was<b> good enough for 10th Place and the coveted VeloPromo Copperopolis T shirt</b>. 8th would have been nice, but I gave it all I had at 110miles and 5hrs of <span class="il">racing</span>.</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqNqGwmCrWjoifgcWDqa-92RVaiCRlTU2Abt8XH1ShFzz4B7mJvKOj1yJw_ydRbW66GbLpaEdeqoniLC_N9KI8VLixFUvhJkn0Zby_BQn61nLMByDFTtmP_mrAWTFRwOzdhQ8n05boyCg/s1600/IMG_1320.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqNqGwmCrWjoifgcWDqa-92RVaiCRlTU2Abt8XH1ShFzz4B7mJvKOj1yJw_ydRbW66GbLpaEdeqoniLC_N9KI8VLixFUvhJkn0Zby_BQn61nLMByDFTtmP_mrAWTFRwOzdhQ8n05boyCg/s320/IMG_1320.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<u><b>Summary/Lessons Learned:</b></u> In the end I think we rode the <span class="il">race</span> well with the small but strong crew. Personally it was really fun <span class="il">racing</span> with a team in a <span class="il">race</span>
like this, makes everyone a little less nervous but also makes you dig
deep since others are counting on you. The field was stacked and this <span class="il">race</span> is one hell of a <span class="il">race</span> so I am happy with our 10th place, yes double digits but good enough for a T shirt. This was our first real <span class="il">race</span>
as a team after some bad luck at Snelling. When Kurt went with the big
move on lap 3, it was clearly the move to be in, so it was prefect that
we were represented in that move. If I were to <span class="il">race</span>
this again next week I would be more careful about my position on the
climbs and being in a good spot to mark the attacks from the big names
that got away on lap 2 on the main climb this was the only significant
move we missed. That could have worked out OR it could have burned up
all our matches and we would come home with nothing. So we played it a
little conservative based on the quality of the field and how hard/long
this <span class="il">race</span> is. It was clearly a day for CalGiant
(2 in top 5) and MPS (3 in top ten) while TMB, Bicycles Plus, SquadraSF
put 1 rider in the top ten. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<b>Strava File:</b> <a href="http://app.strava.com/activities/46565541" target="_blank">http://app.strava.com/<wbr></wbr>activities/46565541</a></div>
<div>
<a href="http://instagram.com/p/Xhwdo_lRM-/" target="_blank">Battered and beaten but we got a TeeShirt</a>,
now we just need to split it 4 ways. And yes there is tar/black asphalt
everywhere including our teeth and it even penetrates jersey +
base-layer to reach Lee's chest hair!</div>
<b>Data Geek Info: </b><br />
<div>
kJ = 3439</div>
<div>
Norm Power = 225w</div>
<div>
Time = 5hrs 10min</div>
<div>
Distance = 110mi</div>
5sec Power = 893w in final sprintAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04536766202741078838noreply@blogger.com0Copperopolis, CA, USA37.9810358 -120.641871637.7806758 -120.9645951 38.181395800000004 -120.3191481tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6775990407231941870.post-51755300015032584492013-03-23T18:04:00.000-07:002014-03-22T18:06:37.343-07:002013 Regalado RR - Pro 1/2Since I was already out in Oakdale for Wards Ferry why not make it a
solid block of training in prep for some of the bigger road races to
come. Plus riding in dirt/gravel in a <span class="il">race</span> is always fun. <br /><br /><u><b><span class="il">Race</span>:</b></u> Regalado Road <span class="il">Race</span> P12<br />
<br /><u><b>Course:</b></u><b> </b>72mi w/ long promenade then an almost
totally flat 17mile loop with a 2mile gravel section (some hard pack
near center of road and loose and deep towards the shoulder) then a
series of small roller leading into the finish which is on top of the
last roller. Not exactly my ideal course, but what the hell the gravel
always breaks stuff up in races.<br />
<br /><u><b>Result:</b></u><b> 4th Place</b><br /><br /><u><b><span class="il">Report</span>:</b></u>
The lack of hills attracted a few more riders, but the gravel probably
turned others away. But that didn't stop Chuck (MarcPro) & 6 Team
Mikes Bikes guys (Roman, Dana, Rainier, Steve O., Marcus, and Jacob)
from showing up. A few other teams had minor representation but it was
clearly a team practice for TMB. I heard through the grapevine the TMB
was planning on rolling deep so I had a quick chat with Tim the night
before and again had a loose but effective plan. Stay near the front,
and just play the odds game, only committing to a break when TMB has
good enough odds that they will pull too, since they have the firepower
to bring back just about any move in the ~25 person field..<br />
<br /><b>Lap 1: </b>Not that eventful until the gravel, a few riders were
up the road by odds were not in TMB favor so it was not a real threat.
Pace slows before the narrow left into the gravel. I kept some momentum
on the outside and hit the corner fast, but didn't realize it turned to
gravel just after the turn and hit some loose stiff but kept it upright
the rider from Japan behind me was lost all momentum into the gravel
just keeping it upright. I powered along able to pick my clean line
through the gravel and eventually made it to the back of that small
group. The There were a few loose turns that caught riders off guard.
The front group and bridging riders from the field were really going for
it here. As you exit the gravel it is a gradual climb and some rollers
begin. Roman, Dana, Rainier, Chuck and a few others attacked during this
stretch. I focused on following any move that had odds in favor of TMB
and not worrying about the other attacks. After several minutes of
attacks and Chuck sneaking off the front solo, I have enough time to
look behind and it is clear the pack is split in half with only Roman
and Dana from TMB making the move. <br />
<br /><b>Lap 2, 3 & 4:</b> The group of about 8 or 9 works pretty
evenly and well together with the odds not exactly in favor of TMB yet
so they are kinda soft pedaling. Chuck is off the front but within sight
never more that 60seconds or so ahead of us. The pack is within sight
behind, but not gaining either so all good just pull through and
eat/drink up.<b> </b>Eventually<b> </b>Rainier bridges up with a Davis
rider so the odds just turned in the favor of TMB, they take to the
front and get everyone else to pitch in as well, but I try to cool the
jets a bit knowing they will not play nice forever. Chuck stays on a
shorter leash now and eventually we catch him on the 3rd lap. Now the
group is up to about 10 or 11 and the real fun begins. So for about 2
full laps TMB just rotates attacking while Chuck, myself and maybe one
or two other riders in the group mark their moves. Chuck did most the
marking I was 2nd and then the rest of the riders filled in the gaps. It
was clear that they didn't want to drag Chuck to the finish and we
could always muster up enough riders to help bring a solo TMB guy back
if anyone missed marking one of their attacks. So this translates to
doing a 1hr + long sprint workout, riders jumping all over the road from
either side, drilling it in the gutter then realizing they are not
going anywhere and sitting up just in time for another rider to go.
Everyone was stubborn enough to not let anything go but also stubborn
enough to allow each rider to just kick them in the balls kind is this
what Fight Club is like? <br />
<br /><b>The Finale:</b> By this time we were down to 8 in the break.
Before the final time through the gravel a Davis rider snuck off, and
everyone looked to TMB bring it back. Roman gave the order for Rainier
to drive it through the dirt and keep the pressure on. The Davis rider
was persistent and Rainer remained on the front until ~2km to go and it
was pretty clear the Davis guy would get adsorbed in the last 1km. Roman
took off with 1KM or less to go everyone looked at each other, I didn't
have much snap in the legs so I let it go and watched Dana and Chuck,
the cat and mouse began. At about 150m (uphill) Dana actually opened it
up first with Chuck and I jumping immediately, Chuck was able to grab
the Win, Dana 2nd, but I had no real pop left and was in too big a gear
when the last ramp hit my legs. I faded at the top and was not able to
catch Roman before the line. Everyone's legs in the break were shot so <b>I was able to hold on to 4th Place</b>
despite a bad sprint. Really wanted that podium today, but still happy
considering the odds I was up against and slotting in behind Chuck,
Dana, and Roman is pretty good in my book. Overall one exciting, fun,
and HARD <span class="il">race</span>.<br />
<br /><b>Strava File:</b> <a href="http://app.strava.com/activities/45735225" target="_blank">http://app.strava.com/<wbr></wbr>activities/45735225</a> <br /><br /><b>Data Geek Info:</b><br />Time: 2hr 50m<br />Speed: 23.6mph<br />
Norm Power: 232w<br />
Intensity Factor: 0.86Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04536766202741078838noreply@blogger.com0Oakdale, CA 95361, USA37.7665947 -120.8471544999999937.7163837 -120.92783549999999 37.816805699999996 -120.76647349999999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6775990407231941870.post-48854873563204554652013-03-22T17:58:00.000-07:002014-03-22T18:00:26.579-07:002013 Wards Ferry RR - Pro 1/2So I have heard great things about this course and at 60mi (or under)
why not give it a go. I was just coming off 5 days totally off the bike
due to a stomach flu, finally got out for a spin towards the end of the
week started to feel better. What the hell at least I'll be fresh ;) and
get some training in this weekend.<br />
<br /><u><b><span class="il">Race</span>:</b></u><b> Wards Ferry RR P12</b><u><br /><br /><b>Result:</b></u><b> 2nd & 14th</b><u><br /><br /><b>Course:</b> </u>Sanora,
CA at the foothills of Yosemite. ~56mi over 5 laps constantly up or
down totaling over 6k ft of climbing, some steep pitches, some narrow
fast descents, but nothing is the same for more than a few minutes. This
translates to NO REST and making 56miles feel much longer.<br />
<br /><u><b><span class="il">Report</span>:</b> </u>Since SDSR is going on
and it is a bit of a drive, only Tim and I represented SquadraSF in the
P12 field of about 20. Our plan was pretty simple, since field was
likely to be small watch for any splits, but in general try to save
energy for the first half, then initiate moves/splits in the 2nd half if
we are feeling good. There were a few notables despite the small field.
Paul Mach (ExPro w/ Bissel & Kenda/5hrEnergy), Craig Fellers (Red
Peleton) and a few local climbers. The only team with any real
representation was Red Peleton with 3 riders.<br />
<br /><a href="http://acaurora.smugmug.com/2013-Races/2013-03-23-Wards-Ferry-Road/P12/28572755_Gx52mp#%21i=2422380465&k=5LQsXSr" target="_blank"><b>Lap 1</b></a>
was reasonably tame with a few attacks thrown in, Will R. (Olympic
Club) away after the 1st lap. As expected everyone was looking at Paul,
but he made it clear that he would not simply pull us around and bring
riders back for us. Will was out of sight pretty quick, but it was still
a long way. At the start of<b> lap 2 or 3 </b>(gets fussy here) in an
effort to keep the pace us a bit and not let Win get away from us I did a
halfhearted attack (just to test field and keep pace moving), was
brought back, then when the next hesitation came Tim keeps the momentum
up and attacks, everyone looks around and I am at the front and ride
false tempo. Tim is off the front for several minutes, but starts to
come back before the climbs leading up to the feedzone. When he comes
back I counter as the pace slows once again and keep it going. Tim and
my attacks thinned the pack considerably, (maybe 11 left in the field),
but unfortunately I misread how committed Tim's attack was and my
counter before and thru the climb which caused Tim to fade as the
leaders powered through the false flat. On a positive note, Will was
back in sight.. <br />
<br />Another lap went by and Craig Fellers attacked with<b> 2.5 laps to go</b>
as we caught Will who had been off the front solo. Again everyone
looked at Paul, I kept rolling through on the descents and whenever the
pace really dropped, but was conscious not to waste any matches since
the <span class="il">race</span> was only going to get harder. <br />
<b><br />The Break:</b> Before the decent on lap 4, I had lot of momentum
as the pack slowed to a snails pace (again) at the base of a roller and
decided to come thru at speed and keep the pressure on...... I look back
and they are giving me a leash. I keep the moderate pressure on as
though I am just going to float out there and waste energy, but as the
road turns I <a href="http://acaurora.smugmug.com/2013-Races/2013-03-23-Wards-Ferry-Road/E5/28572750_Bqf2kk#%21i=2422378552&k=6ZKSJVF&lb=1&s=L" target="_blank">really hit it over the top and the final rollers</a>
before the decent. By the 180deg turn on the decent they were out of
sight, so I take the decent as fast as I can and by the bottom, Craig is
in sight, on the first climb after the decent I am closer but he slips
out if sight as the road bends. Then all of a sudden I am right on him
as he is trying to fix his dropped chain. I pass him and ease since wind
is not a friend, he is back soon enough and is also clearly happy to
have some help. For 1.5 laps we just keep the pressure on trading good
strong pulls. I think both of us were having nightmares of Paul Mach
catching us and riding right through us with one or two riders in tow.<br />
<br /><b>Last Lap:</b> We were still way out of sight coming through the
feedzone then passed a field before the sharp descent and nailed it,
surely increasing our lead, but then...the wheels started to fall off
with about <b>1/2 lap to go. </b>I think it was a combination of just one hell of a <span class="il">race</span>
and not eating/drinking enough do to the no rest and constant action.
The first few climbs after the decent nearly killed me, but I hung in
there knowing I needed to be on a wheel for a few more miles, but with
about 1.5km to go I just started to fade big time, Craig simply road
away without even picking up the pace, I was cracked, dizzy, out of
water (it was too late anyways), and putting out tempo watts felt like
the hardest thing in the world. The <b>1KM to go</b> sign was a great sight, then the <b>200m sign</b>
was even better, except for the fact that it really kicks up there and I
was out of gears, barely moving. Dropped riders from other fields
started to pass me, but still I could not see anyone from the P12 field.<b> I made it across in 2nd Place </b>with
plenty of daylight between me and the next P12 rider. It was not a
pretty finish, but I am really pleased with the result and making the
move when I did. For the record I cannot remember the last time I
cracked that hard, Tim fought on catching some dropped riders and
finished in 14th. <br />
<br />It was great to have a loose plan at the start of the <span class="il">race</span>, we may have got a bit anxious early (my doing), but I really had a fun reading off Tim throughout the first half of the <span class="il">race</span>, we marked moves well and put in some of our own attacks splitting the field. Having teammates in the <span class="il">race</span> makes <span class="il">racing</span> a little more relaxed and saves a few needed matches. Looking forward to the next <span class="il">race</span> as a team. <br />
<br /><b>Podium Shot:</b> <a href="http://instagram.com/p/XN1r1hlRGG/" target="_blank">http://instagram.com/p/<wbr></wbr>XN1r1hlRGG/</a> <br /><br /><b>Strava File:</b> <a href="http://app.strava.com/activities/45565924" target="_blank">http://app.strava.com/<wbr></wbr>activities/45565924</a> <br />
<br /><b>Data Geek Info:</b> <br />Time: ~2:40 forgot to press start at the line<br />Norm Power: 246w<br />Intensity Factor: 0.91 !!! Yea NO REST!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04536766202741078838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6775990407231941870.post-9275828660629424552013-03-10T17:54:00.000-07:002014-03-22T17:55:37.605-07:002013 CCCX CR #2 & #3 - P123So after Lee, Carmi, and I tested the new CCCX course 2 weeks ago, I was
glad to be back on a real circuit with closed roads, endless rollers,
and guttering crosswinds. <br /><br /><u><b>CCCX #2</b></u><br />That being said, <b>CCCX #2</b>
was fun despite the very small field and out and back course, Lee won
the P123 from a 2man break that went on lap 1 SOLID, I was 3rd after
attacking the chasers after they were worn down a bit, Carmi was 6th
after attacking the 2nd chase group. So I would say we rode the <span class="il">race</span> just about as good as we could have. In the earlier and larger E2/3 field Carmi rode the entire <span class="il">race</span>
off the front but was caught by a solo rider (or maybe he started in
front of Carmi, I forget) and 2 other riders in the last 200m or so but
hung tough for 4th. Lee was the rider that got a free tow from a rider
bridging the gap on the final la[p, but was able to out-sprint his
companion for 2nd!!! Nice work guys. <br />
<b>CCCX #2 Results:</b><br />P123 Results: 1st - Lee, 3rd - James, 6th - Carmi<br />E2/3 Results: 2nd - Lee, 4th - Carmi<br /><br /><u><b>CCCX #3</b></u><br />Back to the original course meant bigger fields and longer races YEA!!!. Carmi did the <b>E2/3 <span class="il">race</span></b> which came down to a field sprint. He manages 5th in good sized field, nice more upgrade/BAR/BAT points!<br />
<br />In the <b>P123 <span class="il">race</span></b> it was just Matt and
myself. Although Madera took some of the usual suspects away the P123
still had about 20 starters. CliffBar had a few guys, BearDev,
Leopard-Soporo, Olympic club had a few local Cat1s, but most other
riders were <span class="il">racing</span> solo. Local Eamon van Lucas of Cal Giant and the <a href="http://www.usacycling.org/devo-wrap-u23-training-camp-preps-riders-for-season.htm" target="_blank"><b>U23 National Team</b> </a>prepping for departure to <span class="il">race</span>
most the season in Europe with the National Team was clearly "the guy"
to watch with a few climber types and mostly sprinter types in the field
Matt and I figured out best chance was just to follow Eamon and any if
the other TT/climber types that can split the field and possibly get
away. With a small field and breaks often being more if splits that
breaks in this course we decide to go with 1 of 3 odds or 2 of any 4+
rider break. So plan was simple.<br />
<br /><b>Lap 1:</b> basically warm-up<br /><b>Lap 2:</b> Eamon drills it up
the first gradual climb and everyone is in the gutter scrambling. He
eases everyone sits up and a counter attack goes. Eamon waits then jumps
across and picks up the pace from the group up the road. I was boxed
in, but Matt jumped just after Eamon did, perfect. Then a Leopard rider
jumps across (which would make the group now ~5) so I follow. At the top
of the first climb (the one where everyone is guttered on the left of
the road), Matt just loses contact as I make contact, I don't pull
through hoping Matt can close the gap before the group gets organized.
But Eamon piles on the pressure on the flat section before the decent. A
few others bridge across as the break initiates. About 7 riders in
total.<br />
<b>Lap 3-5:</b> The break was bigger than I wanted, but as the laps
ticked down and Eamon convinced everyone to pull through and a few
things were clear 1) a few riders would not last and 2) this was "the
move." I was not happy since the odds did not match our original plan so
I was that enoying guy in the break taking short pulls on the flats and
longer hard pulls on the rollers in the gutter hoping to wear out the
group a bit. The good news was the sprinters from Cliff and a few other
teams were not present. Eventually after it was really clear this group
was staying away people started putting in some attacks. All the attacks
that happened on the rollers before the finishing straight were
unsuccessful but since those roller had a cross headwind they did tire
out the group. <br />
<b>Lap ~5:</b> So on lap 5 Eamon hit it again near the bottom of the
first climb (which typically has a cross/tail wind) then pulls off to
see what damage he caused, I immediately hit it hard over the top and
kept drilling it until the 1st descent. Success group explodes and we
are down to 4 from 7 or 8. <br />
<b>Laps 6-7?:</b> 4 was still more than I wanted and it was clear due to
the explosion behind the dropped riders were gone for good so I take it
easier on the flats but start throwing in some attacks on the rollers
and the tailwind climb hoping to get Eamon to go with me. Eamon and the
BearDev kid were buddies and started chatting now and then when Chris or
I could not hear. So I decide to watch what kind of games they may play
and took an easy lap to rest up for finale<br />
<br /><b>Last Lap:</b> I was still nervous about the games they might play
so I hit the first climb past the start finish hard to see if I could
pop anyone, nope could not split Brain & Eamon and I didn't want to
attempt a solo move, so I waited for the sprint. Coming into the sprint I
just keep repeating in my head "1st into last corner, 1st into last
corner" sometime I lose focus in the finale so this helps me :). They
made me lead it out on the decent I kept my speed but shifted way to the
right waiting... And waiting.... And finally BearDev comes flying by
still 200m from the last turn I jump on his wheel, Eamon on mine, then
Brian eases. Again too early so we wait and wait as the corner gets
closer and closer and we start slowing down again. I wait as long as I
can but was afraid we would slow too much or Eamon would jump first, so I
jump hard at about 20m before the turn (earlier than I wanted, better
too early than too late) I make it thru the turn at full speed use all
the road and sprint along the cones on the left side of the road, spin
my gear up and hold on for dear life as the road tilts up trying to keep
the cadence up as high as I can. <b>YES! My first win of the USCF season </b>in
the bag and extremely happy I was able to hold off Eamon. As expected
the riders who were popped from the break were absorbed by the field,
Matt took a last lap all-or-nothing attack at the start of final roller
section, but was drought back on the decent, and rolled in with the
pack. <br />
<br /><b>Video of sprint for the Win:</b> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gVCVGyC4LGE&feature=youtu.be" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?<wbr></wbr>v=gVCVGyC4LGE&feature=youtu.be</a> <br /><br /><b>Podium Shot:</b> <a href="http://instagram.com/p/WrtYr1lRDF/" target="_blank">http://instagram.com/p/<wbr></wbr>WrtYr1lRDF/</a><br />
<br /><b>CCCX #3 Results:</b><br />P123 Results: 1st - James, 11th Matt<br />E2/3 Results: 5th - Carmi<br /><br /><b>Data Geek Info:</b><br />Time: 1hr28m Dist: 34.4mi Norm Power: 265w (w/ 229w ave)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04536766202741078838noreply@blogger.com0Fort Ord National Monument, Salinas, CA, USA36.6208545 -121.7705316000000336.518885 -121.93189310000002 36.722824 -121.60917010000003tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6775990407231941870.post-72277202886804230042013-02-17T17:47:00.000-08:002014-03-22T17:49:41.068-07:002013 Pine Flat - Pro 1/2 After flatting out of Cantua Creek (yes 2nd flat in 3 weeks of <span class="il">racing</span> with tires in good condition... WTF) I was hoping my bad luck streak would turnaround for my inaugural attempt at <span class="il">racing</span> Pine "Flat".<br /><br /><b>Course:</b>
62 mile near-loop with a gently rolling 22mile start out & back
section, then ~30mi mostly flat with a few rollers before the real
climbing begins. 2 main climbs in the last 10miles, the first one comes
after a false flat with rollers and is about 3+miles long, then a fast
relatively non-technical decent followed by gentle rollers and a final
steep 1km climb.<br />
<br /><a href="https://www.usacycling.org/results/?permit=2013-289" target="_blank"><u><b>Result: 6th</b></u></a> good enough for the coveted <a href="http://instagram.com/p/V3H0TllRBx/" target="_blank">VeloPromo T-shirt!!!</a><br /><br /><b><span class="il">Report</span>:</b>
The 5am wake-up for a 7:30am start was a bit of the shock but was able
to get to the start to check out the competition. The notables and
marked riders were the Garmin development riders Adrian and Zeke, Chris
H-D (MarcPro), plus a handful of climbers types I recognize from the
NCNCA and my days <span class="il">racing</span> in SoCal. Then there
were a few unknowns which included 5 riders from Japan and 3 riders from
Oregon. Total field size was only 25 or so.<br />
<br />At about mile 2 a group of 5 took off on a rolling decent. The pack
was not too concerned since it appeared all the watched riders were
still in the field. The pack continued along with slightly more urgency
with about half the riders pulling through to lift the pace and keep the
leaders in range. By the turnaround the group had 45s and included 1
Japanese rider, 1 Oregon rider, Travis (Mikes Bikes), Don Chapin, and
Vincent (Dayka-Hackett). By the halfway point Travis had dropped from
the break and the gap was now up to 2:30. The pack's pace stayed
relatively high, but with no team with more than 1 or 2 riders, it was
basically up to each individual to decide how they were going to play
their card. I took some pulls throughout the whole <span class="il">race</span>
since I was pretty worried it was going to stick, a few other riders
did about as much work as me, with a few doing much more work. Matt
Gordon (Fusion) did a ton of work, but despite our efforts when we hit
the first climb the leaders were still ~2min ahead.<br />
<br />On the rollers leading up to the main climb there were a flurry of
attacks. At one point it looked like the main pack was splitting and I
decided to jump across, I bridged fast so no one would go with me, but
eventually the entire field came back together so turned out to be a
pretty big waste of energy. Later Zeke and another rider were given a
small leash on the last few rollers, followed by Adrian rolling off just
as the main climb began. Don and the Japanese rider from the break were
caught so now there were 2 from the original break and 3 others
scattered up the road. It was clear it was game on, Chris H-D and myself
hit the main climb with some intention hoping to slowly bring back the
riders ahead. Chris and I traded steady hard pulls at 5.0 - 5.5 watts/kg
for portion of the climb, but the pack had no intention of going this
hard on the first climb. After a few pulls only one of the Japanese
riders was with us. Halfway up the main climb Chris was doing the
pulling and the Japanese rider was fading with significant daylight
between us and the pack. We passed the Bicycles Plus rider during this
effort, so now Chris and I were <span class="il">racing</span> for 5th.<br />
<br />At about 1km from the peak I started to fade and I regretfully I
didn't dig enough for the last few minutes to get some help on the
descent and valley (always seems so much easier/simpler in hindsight).
As Chris crested the top he caught the Oregon rider from the original
break. I hit the top ~15s behind Chris and the next rider behind has
about the same gap. Driving this part of the course at 6am was extremely
helpful for the decent, knowing there were no surprise corners I was
able to descend about as fast as any 57kg rider can, but still it seemed
Chris and his new companion were slowly drifting away. I tried to keep
my motivation up as much as possible since the somewhat windy gently
rolling valley solo TT I was now embarking on is not my forte. Coming
into the final climb the two riders ahead were now out of sight and I
had increased my gap only slightly on the rider behind with no idea how
far back the main chase group was. <br />
<br />When I hit the 1km sign it was a huge relief, it was clear that my
legs could keep me from getting caught by the pack and I should have 6th
locked up so I simply set a steady threshold-ish tempo, but the rider
behind started to close on me. So about half way up I hit the gas to
finish strong, then with <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=600094716672209&set=a.600089180006096.143650.100000150578392&type=1&theater" target="_blank">200m to go</a>
I see the Oregon rider who has clearly blown. I dig deeper hoping there
is enough road left to grab 5th, but unfortunately I ran out of real
estate and crossed the line in 6th just a few seconds behind 5th. Adrian
timed it perfect and caught the last rider from the break on the final
climb, Vince 2nd, Chris H-D 3rd, Zeke 4th.<br />
<br /><b>Takaways:</b> Happy with my riding and result, didn't ride a perfect <span class="il">race</span>
but had fun, loved the course, and hopefully learned a thing or two
about my riding and fitness coming into the 2013 season. Again always
easier when looking back on it, but going way into the red during the
last 1km of the main climb to get the "free" ride for the decent and
valley would have saved me a ton of energy even if I had to use one big
match to stay with Chris over the top, worst case I still would have
gotten 6th. Also be aware of non-typical <span class="il">race</span> scenarios, since no team had any real representation and with huge efforts coming towards the end of the <span class="il">race</span>, means the <span class="il">race</span> would not have a typical dynamic. <br />
<br /><b>Data Geek info:</b><br />Strava Link: <a href="http://app.strava.com/activities/41345311" target="_blank">http://app.strava.com/<wbr></wbr>activities/41345311</a> (includes warmup & ride to car)<br />
<span class="il">Race</span> Weight ~57.5kg<br />Work - 1942kJ<br />
Norm Power: 234w (<span class="il">race</span> only)<br />5sec Pwr - 948w (stupid for me to attack/bridge this hard in a <span class="il">race</span> like this before a sustained climb)<br />2min Pwe - 334w (final 500m of the <span class="il">race</span>)<br />5min Pwr - 294w (main climb)<br />10min Pwr - 288w (main climb)<br />
20min Pwr - 262w (main climb + decent)<br /><br />I had a blast <span class="il">racing</span>
this weekend Saturday and Sunday and it was great to give and receive
support form ALL categories out there this weekend. SquadraSF really
showed our strength and class this weekend at Cantua, PineFlat, and
Coppertown!<br />
Cheers,<br />JamesAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04536766202741078838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6775990407231941870.post-43378404828471528632012-09-11T23:57:00.001-07:002012-09-16T03:31:23.845-07:00Petaluma Criterium - Pro/1/2/3<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u>Course:</u> Flat 4 corner wide open course, but with pretty <u>bad pavement</u> my hands were pretty tired/sore by the end of 90min of fun. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><br /></span><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Coming off Mt.
Whitney Stage Race (no tactics since all climbing so not sure if anyone
wants to hear the report) my legs seemed to be coming around, but I
decided to opt for the much closer and much shorter race this Saturday, <span class="il">Petaluma</span> <span class="il">Crit</span> instead of ChallengeRR.</span></span></span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><br /></span><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u>We're Off:</u> With a bigger than expected field of ~35 starters, there were several
guys to watch. I drove up w/ Rainer S. & Steve P. (Mikes Bikes), but at
the start line several other teams had representation. Most notably were
(2) Cal Giant, several Stage17, several Ritte Dev., (2) Cliff Bar, (2)
Specialized Masters and a few other teams with 2-3 riders. Rolling solo today, I basically planned to stay near
the front and simply follow any move with 3 or more riders containing
any of the bike guns. As expected the first 15min had some attacks but
ALL were marked quickly, I focused on staying in good position, but not
making any big efforts since many other were eager to chase the attacks
down. But as usual the chasers lost their steam and attacks were given
longer leashes. About 20min in to the 90min race, Jared B. (Cal Giant)
way off the front solo and a dangerous move started to establish behind. I jumped across to it and added some hard pulls at the front to
increase the gap. The small gap held with Steve (MikesBikes), Blake
(Cliff), Pat Briggs, Ben (Stage17), a SJBC rider, and one more rider.</span></span></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/1d6Lj9EpNa8?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><br /></span><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u>Break:</u> The break rode well together, everyone pulled through
with only a few surges and a few skipped pulls. Eventually we caught
Jared (CalGiant) and our gap was up to 40seconds. At this point it was clear we were
not getting caught, but everyone kept on chugging along. After 45min or
so we caught the field. Jared now had Rand to help him out. So Jared could either attack the group again or assume
position on Rands wheel for the field sprint. I stayed near the front as the first counters started flying and
I attempted to lure Jared into some moves as well but it seemed the others in the break were willing to chase, but not really go for
another break attempt. </span></span></span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><br /></span><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u>The Finale:</u> With ~10 laps to go Rand set tempo for Jared and I fought my way onto Jared's wheel. On the bell lap
just before the 2nd to last turn, Rand didn't have it fast enough to keep the
attacks from coming so Ben (Stage17) attacked on the outside and I
followed Jared. I made it through the 2nd to last corner in 6th or so,
then there was a bit of who has the racing line debate between Jared &
Pat into the last corner so a few of us had to hit the brake. I made it
through in 5th, comfortably in the draft for 100m as everyone opened up
the sprint. I gave it a go with 50-75m to go, dropping it a gear or two
and went out into the wind to try overtake, but grabbed a little too much gear forgetting that I am
enduro trackie sprinter and need to spin up a gear rather than just mash
away. So I only moved up (or held) to 4th Place by the line about a
wheel from 3rd and a half a bike from 2nd. The sprint was pretty wide
open and had a long straight, so I was happy to just hold my own in a P12
field sprint. </span></span></span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><br /></span><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u>Result:</u> 4th Place</span></span></span>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04536766202741078838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6775990407231941870.post-33519713124057062142012-06-13T18:01:00.000-07:002012-12-04T00:05:08.562-08:00Cat 1 Upgrade Approved!<div style="text-align: -webkit-left;">
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: museo-sans-1, museo-sans-2;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">It is official, my Cat 1 upgrade was approved by USAC this week. After a slow start to the season I started gaining more and more confidence and racing smarter. Looks like all the hard-work this winter paid off. Never really thought getting the Cat 1 upgrade was possibly until the last month or so. My original goals for the season were to be fit enough to have fun racing in the NCNCA Pro/1/2 field. Focusing on technical/challenging crits and circuit races and also testing my legs in Pro/1/2 level road races which I steered clear of in 2011 due to their length. So far the season has been great. I raced a few collegiate races with SFSU, my fitness was good but admittedly I was not racing smart or racing for the win. I gained confidence in my fitness throughout the early season and slowly began to race smarter and the results slowly edged their way into the top 10. After just missing the podium at the Chico Stage Race Crit, my head was back in the game for the first time since early 2011 when I got my Cat 2 upgrade. After Chico I stayed focused while training and on game day.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-left;">
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: museo-sans-1, museo-sans-2;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">.</span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: black;"><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: museo-sans-1, museo-sans-2; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;"><u>Cat 1 Upgrade/Top Ten Results:</u></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: black; color: #3d85c6; font-family: museo-sans-1, museo-sans-2; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;">5/27/12 Mt. Hamilton Classic RR E2 - </span><b style="background-color: black; color: #3d85c6; font-family: museo-sans-1, museo-sans-2; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;"><u>1st Place</u></b><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: museo-sans-1, museo-sans-2; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;">6/3/12 </span><span style="background-color: black;"> </span><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: museo-sans-1, museo-sans-2; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;">Central Coast Circuit Race #3 Pro/1/2/3</span><span style="background-color: black;"> </span><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: museo-sans-1, museo-sans-2; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;"> - </span><b style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: museo-sans-1, museo-sans-2; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;"><u>1st Place</u></b><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: museo-sans-1, museo-sans-2; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;">5/19/12 County Center Crit #2 E2- </span><b style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: museo-sans-1, museo-sans-2; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;"><u>1st Place</u></b><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: museo-sans-1, museo-sans-2; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;">5/12/12 County Center Crit #2 P1/2/3 - </span><b style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: museo-sans-1, museo-sans-2; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;"><u>2nd Place</u></b><br />
<span style="background-color: black;"><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: museo-sans-1, museo-sans-2; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;">5/12/12 Team Swift Crit E2/3 - </span><b style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: museo-sans-1, museo-sans-2; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;"><u>2nd Place</u></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: museo-sans-1, museo-sans-2; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;">4/14/12 Chico Stage Race Pro/1/2: </span><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: museo-sans-1, museo-sans-2; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;">GC - 8th,</span><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: museo-sans-1, museo-sans-2; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;"> </span><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: museo-sans-1, museo-sans-2; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;">Crit - <b>4th</b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: black;"><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: museo-sans-1, museo-sans-2; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;">9/3/11 Central Coast Circuit Race #8 Pro/1/2/3 - <b>5th</b></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: black; color: #3d85c6; font-family: museo-sans-1, museo-sans-2; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;">7/24/11 SOMO 2 Wheel Crit Pro/1/2 - 8th</span><br />
<span style="background-color: black; color: #3d85c6; font-family: museo-sans-1, museo-sans-2; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;">9/3/11 Central Coast Circuit Race #8 Pro/1/2/3 - 5th</span><br />
<span style="background-color: black; color: #3d85c6; font-family: museo-sans-1, museo-sans-2; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;">5/13/12 Berkeley Hills RR Pro/1/2 - 15th (1st of Cat 2s)</span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: museo-sans-1, museo-sans-2; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;">2011 Tuscon Bicycle Classic E2: </span><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: museo-sans-1, museo-sans-2; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;">GC - 8th</span><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: museo-sans-1, museo-sans-2; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;">, Circuit Race - 7th</span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: museo-sans-1, museo-sans-2; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04536766202741078838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6775990407231941870.post-82978453378590488702012-06-03T12:46:00.000-07:002018-06-01T13:24:33.378-07:00Central Coast Circuit Race #3 - Pro/1/2/3<span style="color: #3d85c6;">Kurt, Scott, Mike (off a long solo effort for the win in 35+), and myself rolled up to the startline for the P123 which ended up having 37 starters. Weather was perfect, 60s, and a strong onshore wind.</span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #3d85c6;">The race began pretty mellow. I did not recognized too many riders except for Ethan (Metromint) and Art (Marc-Pro), but there were several other Metromint riders and a half-dozen Ritte Dev. JRs. </span><span style="color: #3d85c6;">After a lap or two we hit the front side climb pretty hard. After Art did the damage he pulled off and I came through to keep the momentum but find everyone was simply marking him, but fine to let me waste energy off the front. </span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u>Break of two-1</u>: I decide to just keep cruising at a tempo pace and let them catch back up or have some riders bridge, but they shut down and my gap grows. So I pick it up to a hard tempo, but still being careful to not go over threshold for any extended period of time. One Metromint rider bridges and we work together for a lap or two. I paced it pretty conservative hoping more would bridge, not wanting to do a 2-man TT for 1hr. Rob (McGuire) bridges, but the pack decides 3 is too many and reels us back in.</span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u>Break of two-2</u>: As expected there is counter attack. Ethan (Metromint) jumps, Kurt anticipated this (perfect play Kurt) and hops right on and a new break of two forms. Their gap holds steady for a lap and then they disappear growing to over 1min, then shrinks as the laps tick by 50sec, 45sec, and finally 30seconds. With 2 laps to go the gap was close-able but the pack seemed to have lost motivation once again. When we hit the bell lap Kurt decides to leave his break companion and go on alone. Ethan throws in the towel and the atatcks start coming again, nothing sticking but shedding riders every so often.</span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u><br /></u></span>
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u>Finish:</u> As we hit the final rollers several riders attacked, but were quickly marked, this caused the gap to close down almost all the way then again the pack sat up, Kurt continued on and the gap grew. I thought this might be it, "he's gonna do it." About that time a Cal Poly rider and a Ritte rider put in a solid attack/flyer attempt over the last roller. I jump on it, they look back asking for help, see my jersey and continue on realizing I my teammate is still up the road. Halfway down the decent the majority of the pack is with us and Kurt is not too far off. I am on the outside near the bad section of road at the bottom of the decent and see Art (Marc-Pro) drill it on the inside gutter, I accelerate into the wind to get over to the inside and muscle my way onto 3rd wheel. Art continues to drill pulling off just before the corner. I was expecting him to just go for the line since he didn't have any teammates today, but maybe he just wanted to bring back Kurt and not mess with the sprint? Kurt is making the turn and we are right behind coming at full speed. I sense some hesitation by the rider in front of me and the swarm behind so I jump to take the hole shot on the corner passing around the outside of Kurt and open up the sprint. That little rise just gets steeper and steeper ouch the last 30m almost killed me but luckily I got a solid gap at the corner and was able to take the WIN with room to spare. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEjfMqp303EskIat25rtH8VYb8wpSKkJYDogAq-HyoQJv3tjmWlHeQlh8ZpoROafDYlBWtsOHam4t9ln2pXtoBEm2lxG2NhHFaA9eESvNItfl-xk_15YCOnQWx4cfwRRhbMwszwuH0K1E/s1600/CCCX3_P123_Podium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEjfMqp303EskIat25rtH8VYb8wpSKkJYDogAq-HyoQJv3tjmWlHeQlh8ZpoROafDYlBWtsOHam4t9ln2pXtoBEm2lxG2NhHFaA9eESvNItfl-xk_15YCOnQWx4cfwRRhbMwszwuH0K1E/s400/CCCX3_P123_Podium.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<a href="http://app.strava.com/activities/10055330">Strava File</a><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><a href="https://www.usacycling.org/results/?year=2012&id=1170&info_id=49351">Placings:</a></span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;">1st - James (me)</span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;">17th - Kurt swarmed at the final turn. Mike and Scott were a little taxed from earlier races.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04536766202741078838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6775990407231941870.post-26641202560117653622012-05-27T09:59:00.000-07:002018-06-01T13:23:23.261-07:002012 Mt. Hamilton Classic - E2<span style="color: #3d85c6;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;">Matt and I from <a href="http://www.squadra-sf.com/">SquadraSF</a> headed down for the Cat2 race which had about 40 starters, plenty of strong guys to watch including about 6 Metromint riders.</span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u><a href="http://tinyurl.com/7sgmff7">Course</a> & <a href="http://www.teamsanjose.org/memorialwknd/2009/img/profile-map-lg.gif">Profile:</a></u> A true nor-cal classic attracts SoCal cyclists as well, starts with a 18mile climb from the gun with 4000ft elevation gain in basically 3 even sections. Then a sharp decent followed by 40miles flat/rolling terrain with about 3 5min climbs sprinkled throughout.</span><br />
<u style="color: #3d85c6;"><br /></u>
<u style="color: #3d85c6;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/LJ5SFoFRGl/">The Plan:</a></u><span style="color: #3d85c6;"> I knew there would be plenty of climbers showing up so my strategy was simple. SIT IN and follow the big moves or splits! In the valley/middle section of the race focus on recovery and nutrition. Then attack or make final selections on the last 2 climbs with 20miles to the finish.</span><br />
<u style="color: #3d85c6;"><br /></u>
<u style="color: #3d85c6;">To the Observatory and KOM:</u><span style="color: #3d85c6;"> As planned I sat in the top 5-15 riders staying in the draft about 98% of the climb. Metromint decided to set the pace from the start. They had 5 or 6 riders with a few strong climbers including Keith Wong who has some crazy time OLH, so they were obviously trying to set it up for him. Fine by me, so they set the pace on the first two sections, Keith attacking at the beginning of the 3rd section. I expected this and again focused on saving energy letting the others chase. The pace picks up a lot due to Keith's move. The group catches Keith about the time you start to see the observatory. With about 10min to the KOM, there are only about 15 guys left. With a few KM to the KOM some accelerations start happening but no all out attacks. When we make the last hairpin there are about 5 of us up front and a JR obviously going for the KOM puts in a real attack. After some hesitation a Helens rider and myself start to bridge up to him. There is actually more climbing after the KOM so I am careful not to bridge it too fast. We catch him 100m before the KOM. The JR attacks again, the Helens guy throws in the towel and I decide to not burn a match here but continue to motor over through the KOM as the JR sits up after getting the KOM. I hit the decent first with a solid gap and conservatively descend. At the bottom I am at the back of a lead group of about 7.</span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><br /></span>
<u style="color: #3d85c6;">The Valley:</u><span style="color: #3d85c6;"> The lead group keeps the pace relatively high, since the Helens rider is off solo after a impressive decent. But the cross-headwind causes the group to swell to about 20 by 2nd feed zone. The climbs after the feedzone split the group again. At the top of the last climb of the race It was just me and 4 others. We were all committed to working and staying away, but again it was not to be after about 5miles we were caught by a group of ~10.</span><br />
<u style="color: #3d85c6;"><br /></u>
<u style="color: #3d85c6;">Finish:</u><span style="color: #3d85c6;"> The finish comes about 1 mile after a long fast decent. We hit the base with about 12 riders. Everyone was anxious, there was a strong headwind, roads very narrow, and the finish is hard to see since it it after a little rise. At the 1KM sign everyone was stacking up near the centerline or gutter trying to find an open lane. I was kinda stuck in the middle but only a rider or two back from the guys in on the front, so I figured it was better than fighting for a spot on the outside which was in the wind. I waited patiently. One rider jumped from the front near the 200m sign and the rider to my left hestiated. Seeing the lane open I jumped immediately sneaking through and claiming my 1/3 of the road up against the centerline. I couldn't see the line over the small rise and just tried to keep my gear spinning up and over the hump. I gained ground on the rise and crossed the line first with enough room to throw an arm up, but still in shock that that gap opened up for me and that <u>I just Won Mt. Hamilton Classic!</u> </span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u><a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/9507797">Strava File</a></u></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><b><a href="https://www.usacycling.org/results/?year=2012&id=1118&info_id=49075">Placing: 1st</a> </b></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid_kUlqbYOM9ueaUhodmjzkQakqpPxJWOGWB12u6QAK3E3CvoMvNJ-F6zi3INFvyuyH3leN_QCRrXrq2siP4zJ13JdraGfQhwlpQ3PbTMhBllgUI8aYhd9iBWGEWsz7oAdyGf0gA1oGY8/s1600/E2_Podium_Cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid_kUlqbYOM9ueaUhodmjzkQakqpPxJWOGWB12u6QAK3E3CvoMvNJ-F6zi3INFvyuyH3leN_QCRrXrq2siP4zJ13JdraGfQhwlpQ3PbTMhBllgUI8aYhd9iBWGEWsz7oAdyGf0gA1oGY8/s320/E2_Podium_Cropped.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04536766202741078838noreply@blogger.com0Mt Hamilton, CA 9514037.3417887 -121.642982737.3291647 -121.6627237 37.354412700000005 -121.62324170000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6775990407231941870.post-80691795347658846342012-05-19T23:59:00.000-07:002012-06-03T10:26:01.122-07:00County Center Crit #2 - Pro/1/2<span style="color: #3d85c6;">At just over 30 starters, it wasn't the largest field ever, but Mike's Bikes, Metromint, and <a href="http://www.squadra-sf.com/">SquadraSF</a> were well represented. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;">About 30min into the 90 minute crit, the field was effectively cut in half. One minute the pace was all cool with the occasional attack and then all of a sudden it seemed like the attacks were coming non stop. When the pace finally slowed, the pack was cut in half. Soon after my teammate Kurt goes up the road. Pablo and I try to recover and just sit in since Kurt was in a promising break. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;">After 20min, Pablo sees Kurt is coming back and we look at each other like what the **** are we going to do. Pablo takes initiative goes straight to the front and drills it, I jump on his wheel as Pablo pegs it at about 30mph. Pablo pulls off and I hit the front, giving it some more gas, I look behind shortly after to see what kind of help we will get in the chase effort. Answer...none, the group lets me ride off the front. I look up the road and can see the two leaders 200-300m up the road and the remaining pack back to their coffee ride pace. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja7n3uL2zQDnMbxEKsl1imCxdHAR-igI8k0sClMUUU_2tM2cCvs6uF-6-omxEMIAmWKyLPjeVjPpE4mLBg7juTwWN1e8IkBldntxPDnZ1bpbI6NkEErnKBkJWQuB-EdRPIR_uxrwZvAkU/s1600/458014_3833184903899_1106213804_33571095_1744604432_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja7n3uL2zQDnMbxEKsl1imCxdHAR-igI8k0sClMUUU_2tM2cCvs6uF-6-omxEMIAmWKyLPjeVjPpE4mLBg7juTwWN1e8IkBldntxPDnZ1bpbI6NkEErnKBkJWQuB-EdRPIR_uxrwZvAkU/s400/458014_3833184903899_1106213804_33571095_1744604432_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #3d85c6;">I decide it is now or never and somehow bridge the ~16second gap. It took a little less than 2 laps at 29mph vs. the break's speed of about ~26mph. Probably the hardest 3min effort I can remember on the bike, if the gap was 5m further I probably would not have made it. After getting a full lap of recovery it was pretty standard break effort. Dana from Mike's Bikes owes us some good karma since we let him jump ahead and swap bikes with 5 laps to go after realizing he had a soft rear wheel. Dana jumped first with about 1/3 of a lap left, I remain on Ethan's (Metromint) wheel as he attempts to close the gap, he doesn't quite make it as we hit the last turn, at the exit of the turn I give it all I got sealing 2nd, but still a ways off the win. Kurt proceeds to ride off the front of the chase group with several laps to go grabbing a impressive 4th.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-z7BRGdEhKxDBJITwCGTWTunPKGW333-yeeIPQTl4NMQ4C_CGlU43ZMeX3kJD8rbhpRPRlA3aTDQNwAHlmpjOVkEHX-yl-GsA49fela0kGSpR-0wlovouGnL4QaHJzjsWNTBTqZsvTTI/s1600/P123_Sprint_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-z7BRGdEhKxDBJITwCGTWTunPKGW333-yeeIPQTl4NMQ4C_CGlU43ZMeX3kJD8rbhpRPRlA3aTDQNwAHlmpjOVkEHX-yl-GsA49fela0kGSpR-0wlovouGnL4QaHJzjsWNTBTqZsvTTI/s400/P123_Sprint_01.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u><a href="https://www.usacycling.org/results/?year=2012&id=1725&info_id=48883">Placings:</a></u></span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;">2nd - James</span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;">4th - Kurt</span><br />
<div>
<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04536766202741078838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6775990407231941870.post-11264826487449467272012-05-19T09:50:00.000-07:002012-06-03T10:26:11.709-07:00Santa Rosa County Center Crit #2 - Cat 2<span style="color: #3d85c6;">Red Peleton was the only other team with significant numbers. </span><a href="http://www.squadra-sf.com/">SquadraSF</a><span style="color: #3d85c6;"> had several riders representing the team, Jesse, Neil, Brian , Daniel, JR, Kurt, Angelo, Emory, and myself. So yes I admit we were a force to be dealt with making up 1/3 of the field. After about 10min of attacks, the pack starts giving some moves a longer leash. Emory gets up the road with a Red Peloton guy and another rider. They get a small gap, but it holds for some time. The pack continues to soft pedal not worried about the early break so I decide to jump across. I jump hard to ensure I don't bring anyone with me. After a few rotations Emory is feeling the effects of initiating the break and falls off the pace.</span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u>Break of 3:</u> So now 3 of us have a small gap that is holding. I decide to hit it for a few laps then reevaluate the situation. The gap grows to ~20seconds so I start taking shorter/easier pulls to see what happens to the gap. It stays constant so obviously my teammates are doing a great job covering any bridge attempts and making an organized chase almost impossible. So I decide the odds are likely in our favor, break companions are still pulling hard, and my teammates will have an armchair ride while all other riders get worn out chasing or trying to bridge. Since we had a very strong E2 team in this race, the pressure on since two in the top 5 is not the same as two in the top 5, one being the WIN. So I am careful to monitor my effort.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE2NsckbPVWaQwUoTsRF_5vrTsnUSv72ifB6PnDVdjhVumUPQwHZHG6YVS-x5DKHc7SJ4pO2DjAt_rwPG3SD2jhGh_y0Rw07-z2mb_nYnUSwltQ1k9VI0uPCQG2dCUh-vAmu9DpP48Ovc/s1600/E2_Break_crop.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE2NsckbPVWaQwUoTsRF_5vrTsnUSv72ifB6PnDVdjhVumUPQwHZHG6YVS-x5DKHc7SJ4pO2DjAt_rwPG3SD2jhGh_y0Rw07-z2mb_nYnUSwltQ1k9VI0uPCQG2dCUh-vAmu9DpP48Ovc/s400/E2_Break_crop.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<u style="color: #3d85c6;">Bell Lap:</u><span style="color: #3d85c6;"> Everyone is anxious, the finish looks deceivingly long because there is a slight bend which blocks the officials tent and finish line from sight when you exit turn 4, but I looked at my Power Data from the Team Swift Crit (same course) and it only takes 20sec to hit the line from the last corner. I move up into pole position in turn three and jump first after exiting the corner, take the shortest possible line to the finish and take the win comfortably.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheW2QaBkTwIlKwCTHgq8iGZMNxvcro87pGYtJaNf6qxlzq-27TtC29Giw776ZcN-2-ZU_fHpoh5E81CMIQYZ-4B-TQoP7ggpeNwbBJEw-5bBEXFIf7HKtYwPk0Iyys23Md1v6DWmJSZT0/s1600/BreakSprint_04sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheW2QaBkTwIlKwCTHgq8iGZMNxvcro87pGYtJaNf6qxlzq-27TtC29Giw776ZcN-2-ZU_fHpoh5E81CMIQYZ-4B-TQoP7ggpeNwbBJEw-5bBEXFIf7HKtYwPk0Iyys23Md1v6DWmJSZT0/s400/BreakSprint_04sm.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<u style="color: #3d85c6;">Field Finish:</u><span style="color: #3d85c6;"> The team took control the front last few laps. In the end Kurt drilled it to the last corner, Neil jumping off his wheel winning the field sprint with room to spare.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5dkDGiMdeGpn0KAv_b-O32td1kFubGEINASjyH80ZuX1o0AGiRA4n-mVSgK2C4BtPeQ0vdUMlWoDEGiQolSKy5JkTmv2S7AqZcMgUJ7YitPWyNPkn5f4dBssjswlxBLo7gZU815WeQMc/s1600/FieldSprint_02sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5dkDGiMdeGpn0KAv_b-O32td1kFubGEINASjyH80ZuX1o0AGiRA4n-mVSgK2C4BtPeQ0vdUMlWoDEGiQolSKy5JkTmv2S7AqZcMgUJ7YitPWyNPkn5f4dBssjswlxBLo7gZU815WeQMc/s400/FieldSprint_02sm.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.usacycling.org/results/?permit=2012-1725"><u style="color: #3d85c6;">Placings</u><span style="color: #3d85c6;">:</span></a><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;">1st - James</span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;">4th - Neil</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04536766202741078838noreply@blogger.com0Santa Rosa, CA38.4404674 -122.714431438.340921900000005 -122.87235989999999 38.5400129 -122.5565029tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6775990407231941870.post-70201557100449953082012-05-13T11:07:00.000-07:002015-05-07T18:07:26.832-07:00Berkeley Hills RR - Pro/1/2<span style="background-color: black; color: #3d85c6;">In the P1/2 race there were about 50 starters and, I was the only rider from SquadraSF and just about everyone was a threat, 7 Mikes Bikes, 8 Marc-Pro Strava, 6 Freemont Bank, 3 Cal Giant, 4 Metromint, Wonderful Pistachios, oh and local Nate English (Kenda/5hr-Energy). So with 6hrs of sleep (5am alarm) and racing a Crit on Saturday, I was wondering how the legs would be. I knew the race would be stacked, but mostly wanted to test myself in my first P1/2 race with a lot of climbing.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: black; color: #3d85c6;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: black; color: #3d85c6;"><a href="http://berkeleybike.org/wp-content/uploads/2012-BHRR-COURSE-MAP.pdf">Course</a> &<a href="http://berkeleybike.org/wp-content/uploads/2012-BHRR-profile.pdf"> Profile</a>: Classic course w/ the P1/2's doing 90 miles with 7500ft of climbing rolling around San Pablo Dam/Reservoir. Climbing the "three bears".</span><br />
<span style="background-color: black; color: #3d85c6;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: black; color: #3d85c6;"><u>Report:</u> As expected: Attacks were constant for the first two laps. On lap two fewer people began to respond to the attacks and Nate kept putting in small attacks on the climbs or simply up the pace like crazy. Admittedly during this stage in the race so I jumped on more moves than I should have, but was worried more about missing the move than finishing at this point. At some point two got away and to be honest I did not even see them go, but with only Freemont and Marc-Pro represented I assumed it would be brought back, wrong, Mikes Bikes guys were suffering they actually used this time to let the pace slow so some of their guys could catch back on and Nate was not willing to do it on his own. Coming into the last lap there was another big split in the front group of 20 on Papa Bear, I was in the 2nd group of 10 or more. As we hit the boat launch area rollers the gap was coming down. Two riders attempted to bridge, I would have jumped on it but had just pulled through and was at the very back. I decided to roll the dice and hope this would cause our group as a whole to pick up the pace and close the gap. Wrong, I ended up stuck in a group of 10+ guys who just lost their shot at a top ten just 14 miles from the finish.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: black; color: #3d85c6;"><u>Since when did I enjoy solo TT efforts</u>: Often when I realize I just let the race slip away from me I get bummed and then really annoyed by the negative racing in the shattered group that I am in. So what do I do, turn it into a training ride and try to get back home sooner than later. When we reach the valley it was very clear we were not catching the lead group again. After taking a hard pull to get things moving, I pull off to find they have just let me ride off. Now really annoyed I keep cruising and make the call to give it a go make the legs pay for not making the final selection and see if I can make it home before the group of 10 just behind me. At mile 82 I must have been really annoyed because a 9mile solo TT with strong winds included headwinds on the final climb is not my idea of fun and does not suit me either. So I made this my race within a race. I catch a Mike's Bikes rider a few miles into my solo effort and am excited to get some help, but quickly realize that he had blown so I continue on solo. The group behind is closing again so I get on it through the meandering valley until I am out of sight again. Coming into Mama Bear I have a pretty good gap, can see the lead group nearing the top, but I can feel my legs and body starting to shut down. I reach the base of Papa Bear with one rider attempting to bridge about 100m back and the group of 10 maybe 300m behind. I fight my bike and legs as much as I can trying to squeeze the last bit of power(lets call it energy because the power numbers at this point were pretty pathetic) out to just get through this hellish headwind climb. I do just enough to finish a few seconds ahead of the Stage17 race bridging and about 10 seconds ahead of the group of 10 chasers. Small success and good mental strength training.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: black; color: #3d85c6;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: black; color: #3d85c6;"><u>Placing</u>: 15th (1st of Cat 2s)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: black; color: #3d85c6;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: black; color: #3d85c6;"><a href="https://app.strava.com/activities/8479161">Strava File</a></span><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04536766202741078838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6775990407231941870.post-33223143431680566232012-05-12T09:44:00.000-07:002012-06-02T23:08:04.346-07:00ATOC Team Swift Crit - E2/3<span style="color: #3d85c6;">In the E2/3 race there were about 55 starters and a few guys to watch. Jan (Gnar Lube) and Rainier (Mikes Bikes) were the guys I was really watching. SquadraSF had several riders representing the team, Jesse C., Neil B., Brian J., Daniel dM, JR, and myself.</span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u>We're Off</u>: As planned we were active everyone moving around the bunch and taking turns going with moves that all seemed to be chased down by the entire field immediately. At this point I was getting sick of jumping of everything and wanted to pick my moves a little more carefully. I noticed Jan was with two other followed by 4 more that just a few bike lengths back. Still waiting attentively I notice the guys at the front of the field are letting the gap open and at the same time Jan appears to be drilling it at the front of his group, that is all I needed to see and jumped hard to bridge up to the lead group of three and pile on the pressure. After a few Hard rotations it ended up being 5 guys committed/making the move with a small gap. </span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u>Break</u>: Composition was perfect 1 from each team that had several riders only problem was the race was not over for 40 MIN! Not much to say about the break except everyone worked evenly. My SquadraSF teammates assumed position near the front and helped the break stick by riding false tempo and quickly marking every move attempting to bridge. With 8-to-go we could see the pack about 1/4 of a lap in front of us. With 2-to-go the Cliff Bar guy attacked but was quickly marked, and riders began to shuffle around a bit.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjatllX7cdNt7ofZK-mTDGaIoKhFziXp4EvVmLpdk60mlgNnff22L53lwn1AAZHzJ981ZN4QSS9Q7w_Ys_aQtTesLw_Bmf-wX774jyISmgMVtMf60eE_wOu7etjrbnkUbl5VoaTNk3R3w8/s1600/Sprint02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjatllX7cdNt7ofZK-mTDGaIoKhFziXp4EvVmLpdk60mlgNnff22L53lwn1AAZHzJ981ZN4QSS9Q7w_Ys_aQtTesLw_Bmf-wX774jyISmgMVtMf60eE_wOu7etjrbnkUbl5VoaTNk3R3w8/s400/Sprint02.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<u style="color: #3d85c6;">Bell Lap:</u><span style="color: #3d85c6;"> Halfway down the back straight I was 2nd wheel and shuffled back to 4th. I jumped hard on the inside just before corner (sweeper) #3 making sure I could take the inside line and then line up the best angle on turn 4. After exiting the the final turn I gave it a second kick and took the shortest line to the finish, Jan was able to get on my wheel before the final turn he took my early sprint as a perfect leadout, but I was able to gap everyone else so I crossed the line in a comfortable 2nd place for SquadraSF.</span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><br /></span><br />
<a href="https://www.usacycling.org/results/?year=2012&id=1724&info_id=48517"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u>Placing:</u> 2nd</span></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPz2yJhpS0RSMUk4zct17gCtC4oIHa0JyZJTZtSstkoHIvXcRE4OrQ_hNRTljIgsV2cEtp5PLao_13VfXj8woNwGYeM3FaFQJQZzOfqbyf-aYLRchSBtxOZWQoioWN8caA-uGGSiWtzmE/s1600/IMG_0395.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPz2yJhpS0RSMUk4zct17gCtC4oIHa0JyZJTZtSstkoHIvXcRE4OrQ_hNRTljIgsV2cEtp5PLao_13VfXj8woNwGYeM3FaFQJQZzOfqbyf-aYLRchSBtxOZWQoioWN8caA-uGGSiWtzmE/s400/IMG_0395.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #3d85c6;">Also pretty cool to see Team Rabobank riders Luis-Leon Sanchez and Laurens ten Dam cruising around the back of the E3/4 race. After getting yelled at by the announcer for joining in on the race they proceeded to do some motorpaced sprints and parade laps off the officials motorcycle. Pretty sweet.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04536766202741078838noreply@blogger.com0Santa Rosa, CA, USA38.4404674 -122.714431438.3409719 -122.87235989999999 38.539962900000006 -122.5565029tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6775990407231941870.post-17867501665861569032012-05-04T09:52:00.000-07:002012-06-02T23:41:52.305-07:00Teaching<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: inherit;">Spring 2012 I taught a Supplementary Instruction Course for Engineering Dynamics at SFSU.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04536766202741078838noreply@blogger.com0San Francisco State University37.7238133 -122.47980937.7112538 -122.49955 37.736372800000005 -122.460068tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6775990407231941870.post-66652045165049256302012-04-14T10:27:00.000-07:002012-06-03T11:05:24.597-07:00Chico Stage Race - Pro/1/2<br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: inherit;">I was hesitant at first to register because a totally flat SR does not really suit me, but the chance to race a relatively low key stage race with Cat 2's picked separately was all the convincing I needed. I was the solo SquadraSF rider in a field of about 46.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: inherit;"><u>Stage 1 - Paskenta Road Race:</u> 90mi basically pancake flat, 2 x 45mile laps w/ 5mi gravel section and rollers towards the finish. Trying to learn from my experience missing the move at TopSport, I did my best to stay near the front. The field was a weird mix of riders. A few Elite teams with lots of riders then a few PRO riders, Kenda/5hr Energy, Jelly Belly, Wonderful Postaccios, Full Circle racing..... But ended up being a tea party until the gravel section each time around, with a few all out efforts as riders attacked and weer chased down in the cross wind. Oh yea and (2-3) full field nature breaks! So all the action was in the gravel section and the last few miles before the finish. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBk787dFZazbmr_L4OhUc-W2hRUgQYNSDzFShdlAxdiqpcB6nU8PrNpCpLngr6cOUDMtDk8HOn7HN22Z_XF97a-3P8bFJXNnV8ybvqTZprL8J4sbiuCyEf4V0AGtd8ue5FqUMG9vJcHuk/s1600/415070_359399304095198_121496984552099_899952_1737635743_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBk787dFZazbmr_L4OhUc-W2hRUgQYNSDzFShdlAxdiqpcB6nU8PrNpCpLngr6cOUDMtDk8HOn7HN22Z_XF97a-3P8bFJXNnV8ybvqTZprL8J4sbiuCyEf4V0AGtd8ue5FqUMG9vJcHuk/s400/415070_359399304095198_121496984552099_899952_1737635743_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: inherit;"><u>Lap 1:</u> Everyone was getting really anxious for the gravel section so the pace just kept increasing as we got closer and closer. I played it safe and fought my way to the very front just before we hit the gravel. Being able to pick my line and stay on the hard-pack sections really helped. I stayed top five through the entire gravel section, trying to sit on the biggest and best wheels of Roman (Kenda/5hr Energy) or Menso (Jelly Belly). The pace through the gravel was pretty aggressive, I recall towards the end of gravel section Roman, then Menso, then myself (why now right) attacking (or simply picking up the pace) in the final rollers. We entered the gravel with 40+ riders and by the end of the first lap we had about 15 riders.</span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: inherit;"><u>Lap 2:</u> Unfortunately the laps were LONG and all the represented teams had several riders that were dropped in the gravel section so no one rode. The single pro riders could have towed everyone around if they wanted but didn't out of principle. By the time we hit the gravel section for the final time the group had more than doubled in size. We exited the gravel in a group of about 30. Several attempts by riders to sneak off in the final few rolling miles were shut down. I followed one promising move which may have been my last match. As we hit the final stair step section before the finish, riders were popping all over the place and I was on the limit as well, getting gapped at one point and used all of whatever pathetic sprint was left in my legs to get back onto the group. The uphill sprint began and I was basically sprinting for the back wheels of the group to make sure no time gaps formed. Small success, I finished 18th of a shattered lead group of 22. </span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: inherit;">http://app.strava.com/rides/6743453</span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: inherit;">Placing: 18th </span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: inherit;"><u>Stage 2 - TT (9.9 miles FLAT point to point TT)</u>: So not much to say except the course was totally flat without too much wind. Not my specialty here, was flying for the first 5min then faded in for the middle portion and tried to pick it back up as much as I could for the final 5min. Crossed the line in a time of 22:35 respectable, but was hoping for a little better. </span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: inherit;">http://app.strava.com/rides/6836126</span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: inherit;">Placing: 29th </span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: inherit;"><u>Stage 3 - Downtown Chico Crit (70min)</u>: </span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Started at the front followed a few moves, and grabbed the first prime through short 6 corner crit course. After my 10-15min of glory riding near the front. I setteled back in the group and was just focusing on recovering for our 70min race. It was strung out 40 riders long for the first 30min. Finally the pace started to ease every now and again. Breaks were given more leway at this point and two riders snuck off and had a solid gap. A few laps later another group of two snuck off. As we hit the wide open start finish the back bollooned again I used the momentum to attack/bridge to the group of two. Everyone in our group of three was </span>committed<span style="font-family: inherit;">, and the odds were in our favor, Mikes Bikes and Freemont Bank were up the road and I was with a Red Peleton and Stage 17 rider. Within a few minutes we are already one corner ahead of the pack (thank you short technical course). After 15min we could see the peleton about a 2/3 a lap down and we were closing on the two leaders. After some motivational conversation, and 5 more minutes of drilling it we made it to the front two with 9 laps to go. At this point we were withing lapping range of the field, but took a little breather instead of lapping the field. Everyone was most concerned about moving up on GC so we shared the work equally keeping the same high pace.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><u style="font-family: inherit;">Bell Lap</u><span style="font-family: inherit;">: Coming into the final few corners I fought for good position and hit the final 150m second wheel (perfect), I began my sprint in the draft, but it was clear that I had no snap left after bridging then doing a 30min team TTT. With my unfortunate sprint I crossed the line in 4th of 5 (1st of the Cat 2's) 1min ahead of the chasing bunch. By far the most enjoyable day of racing in the P/1/2s yet. Moving me from around 23rd on GC to 8th overall! Being able to taste my first bit of </span>success<span style="font-family: inherit;"> in the P/1/2 is motivating. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: inherit;">http://app.strava.com/rides/6836128</span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: inherit;"><u>Placing:</u> 4th (1st of Cat 2's)</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT5vA28Tdv2DVwZSXIj-siU4RrwNZR0NY9pyR9ntTrMPt0xHekFsegqN1tudYTAJOSehZtkPyLZ24kHt_nQCzbzYsGVud0cpQiLfmK21gcdKr1npUwCGp_rvvpAUKZoMpNX_e-B_F-m3U/s1600/CritFinish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT5vA28Tdv2DVwZSXIj-siU4RrwNZR0NY9pyR9ntTrMPt0xHekFsegqN1tudYTAJOSehZtkPyLZ24kHt_nQCzbzYsGVud0cpQiLfmK21gcdKr1npUwCGp_rvvpAUKZoMpNX_e-B_F-m3U/s400/CritFinish.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<u style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: inherit;">Overall GC:</u><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: inherit;"> 8th (3rd of Cat2's) </span><br />
<div>
<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04536766202741078838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6775990407231941870.post-30144997214653352642012-02-01T03:14:00.000-08:002012-09-16T03:30:36.438-07:00SquadraSF - New Team for me & the NCNCA<span style="color: #3d85c6;">in 2012 I will be riding with the newest team in the NCNCA, <a href="http://www.squadra-sf.com/">SquadraSF </a>a Cat 1-4 team based in San Francisco as the name suggests. Check out the <a href="http://www.squadra-sf.com/roster/">roster here</a>.</span><br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #3d85c6;">Here are a few photos from our January Training Camp in my old stomping grounds, San Luis Obispo.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRBCR1P1s4wkVSJMQ7v6ylfg7QbvYytG0hyphenhyphenxqsGd-SPk3JmHBKIzpaLDnme5rwuOrUzFT2IN9SqncnjirtLrfroKMYy814-Mi0kxQy1CFru5xYtwe08yqei_w7Qnt6Ky33eZ74enMo3VY/s1600/SquadraCamp_1383.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRBCR1P1s4wkVSJMQ7v6ylfg7QbvYytG0hyphenhyphenxqsGd-SPk3JmHBKIzpaLDnme5rwuOrUzFT2IN9SqncnjirtLrfroKMYy814-Mi0kxQy1CFru5xYtwe08yqei_w7Qnt6Ky33eZ74enMo3VY/s400/SquadraCamp_1383.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption">SquadraSF - Photo By Frank Schott frankschott.com</span></span><span class="fbPhotoTagList" id="fbPhotoSnowliftTagList"><span class="fcg"></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7gahQKjxyYvNZTKsWZsaavXeG0sJBk0QkDLdpF9z4vL1H_AZA3BR87ftY8Y6ngEkobD08LvrB6nJbb7L9DyNgBD-PQxqiDmhnhPwiwV2LJeE7aSjLQybU-xylkvMvVe2RMXnM0C8l_-o/s1600/SquadraCamp_1386.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7gahQKjxyYvNZTKsWZsaavXeG0sJBk0QkDLdpF9z4vL1H_AZA3BR87ftY8Y6ngEkobD08LvrB6nJbb7L9DyNgBD-PQxqiDmhnhPwiwV2LJeE7aSjLQybU-xylkvMvVe2RMXnM0C8l_-o/s400/SquadraCamp_1386.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption">Kurt & James - Photo By Frank Schott frankschott.com</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiaLf1EV9ZAjkoTchNmVnJtTI9hdqE7waMycwG4uoIOQ8BgNHzhfDZP5tEhTj2HzSqMyeXfQuY_cuQSD4O9RrjcZTsmRwLYyQ7DGv9caru091wWOj3hhRltcsVUwPiJl05Ojl7QSAJr1A/s1600/SquadraCamp_1397crop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiaLf1EV9ZAjkoTchNmVnJtTI9hdqE7waMycwG4uoIOQ8BgNHzhfDZP5tEhTj2HzSqMyeXfQuY_cuQSD4O9RrjcZTsmRwLYyQ7DGv9caru091wWOj3hhRltcsVUwPiJl05Ojl7QSAJr1A/s400/SquadraCamp_1397crop.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption">Let the games begin - Photo By Frank Schott frankschott.com</span></span><span class="fbPhotoTagList" id="fbPhotoSnowliftTagList"><span class="fcg"></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04536766202741078838noreply@blogger.com0San Francisco, CA, USA37.7749295 -122.419415537.6745235 -122.577344 37.8753355 -122.261487tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6775990407231941870.post-64499784804003831572011-07-28T22:09:00.000-07:002012-06-02T23:41:33.210-07:001st Top Ten in Pro 1/2 Race<span class="a-f-i-W-p"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">Grabbed 8th place at the SOMO Pro 1/2 Criteriem after bridging to the second break of the day. Messed up the sprint for 5th but feels good to get my first top ten in a Pro 1/2 race. Really happy I was able to bridge... if the gap was 5 meters more I wouldn't have made it. I thought my results would end when I upgraded to Cat 2, but looks like the Cat 1 upgrade is a possibility if I really work for it. We will see, if I can balance school and racing next year I may try to make it happen.</span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04536766202741078838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6775990407231941870.post-40035986250370631962011-06-24T09:58:00.001-07:002011-06-24T09:58:33.625-07:00school startsAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04536766202741078838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6775990407231941870.post-30019533386191819132011-06-12T11:57:00.001-07:002011-06-12T11:57:24.468-07:00Truckin'<p><a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqB_nLcLh4kDjva053MR6qP_8_6OhRuLLtMgJuieB3XxXOqnWGNI_c-1B_xXrjpPDeoXCnqdZM99iqTsBFTqMdDWHND_AJX1XNOvQzD06x0p40EcTju87r594lTLXBnccQRaRtuaqZ0iE/'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqB_nLcLh4kDjva053MR6qP_8_6OhRuLLtMgJuieB3XxXOqnWGNI_c-1B_xXrjpPDeoXCnqdZM99iqTsBFTqMdDWHND_AJX1XNOvQzD06x0p40EcTju87r594lTLXBnccQRaRtuaqZ0iE/s400/1307904946450.jpg' /></a></p><p>Half way to SF</p> <br/> Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04536766202741078838noreply@blogger.com0