I have SOoooO Been meaning to get back to the daily act of writing.
I like to write, but life has been a handful lately, to the point that I don't want to dwell o n it.
Today's post subject, and I have quite a few to catch up on, so if all goes well expect a good week of blogging.
I would say that its official.
What is official? Well I think calling myself an Ultra Endurance Racer is truth. I have proven that I can compete in the long events and even do well.
BUT, what I have discovered is that it is punishing on the body in ways you could not imagine.
For Example.
After the Trans North Georgia, although my legs didn't swell up like some of my fellow racers. I did have two numb toes and that lasted for about a month.
After the Cross Florida Individual Time Trial this year, I still have some fingers that remain numb from the race and even ended up peeing blood due to riding too long with an empty bladder.
Finally the skin on my sit bones died and peeled off and my ass is so scarred from the TNGA bout with hives and from Saddle sores that I can pretty much kiss my possible and imaginary career in adult film goodbye.
Still, I cant resist the urge to go pedal for hours and days on end and I still see more on the horizon.
It's officially my off season and I am converting the fixie war machine into a single speed war machine and just spending alot of time bikepacking and having fun, tis the season after all.
The Black Beauty is still as dirty as the day that I finished the TNGA waiting to be dismantled and being sent to the painter so that I can someday ride that same bad ass bike from Canada to Mexico.
Speaking off, seems like Life may get in the way of me making that challenge in 2011, but I really see some changes on the horizon so who knows maybe I can turn the tide and still ride the divide.
Short, brief post, but tomorrow there will be more.
Take Care,
Laters,
The NaKeD InDiaN
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
CFiTT 2010
What possesses a person to want to ride 180 miles of mostly off road terrain?
Now what possesses a Person to want to do it on a bike that has no suspension, does not shift and does not coast.
I don't know and now I have done it two years in a row.
Regardless I was gonna race it geared, but I really wanted to test my fitness and new things I have learned on my Fixie, plus my geared bike is not even cleaned or fixed after the TNGA.
So I had two goals, Beat my time from Last year and Beat as many Geared riders as I could.
Now be advised, Just because I am on a fixie, I have no respect for their gears and contraptions, I have no respect if your pro or semi pro, you line up against me I am going to attack, its a race and that's what I do.
And that Crisp morning after my Lil'r Naked Indian Reminder checklist was completed and the whole SSP clan rolled into the parking lot inside of Rob Roberts Rave Wagon, it was quick prep to get the ride rolling.
Once we did, I took off the front. Led the charge. The route had changed because we could not use the single track and I knew that I had to really work hard this first 40 t0 80 miles to keep myself in the race. And I was in front for a little bit, but when we hit Paisley Road I could not match Rob's Counter attack.
Eventually, as the wash boarded Chaos ensued, Bryan Frantz passed me. ThenTom Rassiga caught and passed me. I look back and there sitting comfortably was Roberto Infante and Lynne Daniels. I started wondering what happened to Mike, where the hell did he go?
As I thought that, Roberto Creeped up and passed me and I had to quicken my already fast cadence to keep him in sight. I knew if I could keep the three guyst in sight, when we hit Billy Bay I could pass them, maybe break their spirit.
Mike eventually comes up from nowhere and proceeds to chase down all the riders that had just passed me and put a huge gap on me.
Just as we start reaching the north end of Paisley road, the sand got deep, and I took advantage to slowly reel in Both Tom and Roberto, hit the pavement, and entered Billy Bay Determined to close the gap.
I see a rider up front, assuming that it was Mike Kanning.
I pedal, pedal, pedal and eventually reel the rider in and see it was Bryan Frantz. I thought, Damn, Mike put the turbo boosters on. I kept going, finished the road, got on the pavement, dropped my snickers, had to stop and grab it. As I finished up, Bryan countered my attack and caught me. I kept him in sight on the Dragon's Tail Forest Road, gaining serious ground on him on the climbs. But eventually as it flattened out and got harder packed, Bryan took off. ON Forest Road 10, Tommy Caught me.
I got to Silver Glenn, Got my supplies, and got into the water, fully dressed, got out and got on the bike. Bryan, Mike and Tommy were taking it easy, but I think once they saw me blazing through the swim, it forced them to hurry up.
Eventually on the pavement Bryan Caught me again, then Mike Kanning, Then Tommy.
All the work I did seemed to be lost on the hard packed forest road, it was obvious that I had to just accept the spot I had and hope I could stay close enough to close a gap if they got tired. As I entered Lake Eaton, I came across Bryan, I still had him within 20 minutes. So I got motivated to work again and had the worst and my first Off road over the bar experience on a Fixie. It was a little painful, but I got up fast and got through there fast, and chased on the forest road for miles, and It felt bright and hot, and I was glad I had dark glasses.
Right before making it across State Road 40, Roberto caught me. Brother was riding a good race, and seemed very calm as he pedaled no handed up the climb and ate food all at the same time. I was pretty smoked all that work I was doing was catching up to me.
I had only touched the bike once since the TNGA, I had done tons of work early, and had only ridden my fixie once since May, LOL.
Regardless, I kept my pace even, took my pics, kept hydrated, ate, rolled.
Cleared the River, Cleared the swamp, then got to the gas station, grabbed water and a sandwich.
As I finished Greenway cycles checkpoint, I look and see Roberto sitting there. Cool as a cucumber, waiting for a pizza pie. I go to the parking lot where his wife and Bryan's wife are at. I lay on the pavement stretching my tight back, the first real rest in 102 miles.
I felt so sore already, felt like I had done so much already, but I still kept my stop brief and rolled on, despite how sleepy I felt, I knew I had to try and clear as much of the Santos Singletrack I could before darkness.
At some point, I sat a bench to put on my lights and Team Tandem flies by.
I catch them at the Landbridge parking lot, give them some motivation and keep going. AT some point on Nayl's trails the exhaustion had gotten the best of me and I had to stop and just sleep right there on the side of the trail. I was riding really technical trail, feeling super sleepy.
I decided thirty minutes should clear my head. So I slept, and in the distance I could hear a bike and I see Roberto Roll up. I'm thinking damn he ate fast and left fast and is flying.
Then Team Tandem rolls up, and I sleep just a little more and get up and roll out feeling alot better.
Since about mile 60 I had been fighting cramps. Instead of stopping to let the pain overcome me and lock me, I would get off and walk, I figured any forward movement was better than zero movement.
At one point in Nayl's Trails, I cut a corner short, went over the bars, landed in the bushes, both my calf muscles locking up simultaneously. As I sat there and watched my calf muscles ripple in electrical painful backfires, I got a call from Rob Roberts.
He was concerned about some people he came across in Potts. I told him just to roll on through like he owns the place, he should be fine.
I got up, got going, and eventually as I emerged from the forest onto State Road 200 I caught up to Team Tandem.
I told them I was going to Wal Mart to try and put myself together. ON the road I was impressed at their speed. AT Wal Mart I drank coffee and used the facilities, changed my gps batteries and after a stretch rolled out.
I was feeling good, getting a rhythm going. Climbing, descending, coasting when I could. My right Toe got caught in the rear wheel. It was painful, but the bike stopped rolling. I get off immediately removing my tire, trying to smack it against a tree to get it straight.
But it didn't work. I didn't really know what I was doing. Plus I was tired. It seemed easier for me just to keep walking forward. So I did. I get a message from Rob saying he was done. Awesome, great ride. I keep moving.
Team Tandem rolls up and Paul said he could help me fix it. And he did, and about 1 hour or less later, I was on the road, pedaling again. I decided I would help them over the Haltapa hell track fence and stick with them for awhile, and not long after potts, as we negotiated the thick fog, I lost them in the hell track.
I waited at the end to help, but I got tired of waiting and went to the gas station on the route, to get more coffee and regroup once again. I was pretty hurt at that point, but happy that my cramps had finally stopped.
At the Gas Station I could see Jeanne was hurt, I encouraged her to rest, I was in no rush. At that point I was so happy to be alive, and still in the race. It had been such a hard day for me.
Amazingly enough we rolled on. We got on the levy, crossed the fence, got through potts, reached the caboose and after my picture I decided it was time for a stretch and take a nap.
Team Tandem joined me and we all snoozed right on the pavement, HOBO style.
That was probably a Bad Idea.
When I woke up, I felt so cold that I had to retreat to the bathrooms. I went in there and attempted to dry out, took another nap.
Decided I would get up at 6am, get dressed and leave.
This decision took some time. I was thinking maybe I could not beat my record and didn't know if I felt like bothering with it. But I didn't give into it.
I put on my dry socks.
I put on my wool base layer.
I only had a right arm warmer and a left leg warmer.
I put on my mismatch combo, zipped up my paper towel stuffed shirt and made the choice to pedal to the finish, I knew I could beat my time.
2 miles in I had to stop, the urge to pee was strong, but hardly nothing would come out, then I had to stop again. This went on for the next 15 miles, I didn't realize that I was dehydrated.
I kept going, and before long, as the day got bright I emerged at the Tucker Hill parking lot, satisfied that I had beat my record time by 22 minutes. Not the 18 hours I wanted, but maybe there will be another time.
Rob showed up. It was easy to cat nap. I must have been a comical sight in my mismatch attire.
I hogged out at Denny's, slept a couple more hours at his house and fell asleep super early that night. I was beat.
I was super impressed with how prepared everyone came out and how much homework they did. It was great to see the differences from last year to this year.
I was not satisfied entirely with my ride but I know I did ride strong and I rode hard and I finished.
25 hours and 15 minutes.
Take care,
Laters,
The NakeD InDiaN
Now what possesses a Person to want to do it on a bike that has no suspension, does not shift and does not coast.
I don't know and now I have done it two years in a row.
Regardless I was gonna race it geared, but I really wanted to test my fitness and new things I have learned on my Fixie, plus my geared bike is not even cleaned or fixed after the TNGA.
So I had two goals, Beat my time from Last year and Beat as many Geared riders as I could.
Now be advised, Just because I am on a fixie, I have no respect for their gears and contraptions, I have no respect if your pro or semi pro, you line up against me I am going to attack, its a race and that's what I do.
And that Crisp morning after my Lil'r Naked Indian Reminder checklist was completed and the whole SSP clan rolled into the parking lot inside of Rob Roberts Rave Wagon, it was quick prep to get the ride rolling.
Once we did, I took off the front. Led the charge. The route had changed because we could not use the single track and I knew that I had to really work hard this first 40 t0 80 miles to keep myself in the race. And I was in front for a little bit, but when we hit Paisley Road I could not match Rob's Counter attack.
Eventually, as the wash boarded Chaos ensued, Bryan Frantz passed me. ThenTom Rassiga caught and passed me. I look back and there sitting comfortably was Roberto Infante and Lynne Daniels. I started wondering what happened to Mike, where the hell did he go?
As I thought that, Roberto Creeped up and passed me and I had to quicken my already fast cadence to keep him in sight. I knew if I could keep the three guyst in sight, when we hit Billy Bay I could pass them, maybe break their spirit.
Mike eventually comes up from nowhere and proceeds to chase down all the riders that had just passed me and put a huge gap on me.
Just as we start reaching the north end of Paisley road, the sand got deep, and I took advantage to slowly reel in Both Tom and Roberto, hit the pavement, and entered Billy Bay Determined to close the gap.
I see a rider up front, assuming that it was Mike Kanning.
I pedal, pedal, pedal and eventually reel the rider in and see it was Bryan Frantz. I thought, Damn, Mike put the turbo boosters on. I kept going, finished the road, got on the pavement, dropped my snickers, had to stop and grab it. As I finished up, Bryan countered my attack and caught me. I kept him in sight on the Dragon's Tail Forest Road, gaining serious ground on him on the climbs. But eventually as it flattened out and got harder packed, Bryan took off. ON Forest Road 10, Tommy Caught me.
I got to Silver Glenn, Got my supplies, and got into the water, fully dressed, got out and got on the bike. Bryan, Mike and Tommy were taking it easy, but I think once they saw me blazing through the swim, it forced them to hurry up.
Eventually on the pavement Bryan Caught me again, then Mike Kanning, Then Tommy.
All the work I did seemed to be lost on the hard packed forest road, it was obvious that I had to just accept the spot I had and hope I could stay close enough to close a gap if they got tired. As I entered Lake Eaton, I came across Bryan, I still had him within 20 minutes. So I got motivated to work again and had the worst and my first Off road over the bar experience on a Fixie. It was a little painful, but I got up fast and got through there fast, and chased on the forest road for miles, and It felt bright and hot, and I was glad I had dark glasses.
Right before making it across State Road 40, Roberto caught me. Brother was riding a good race, and seemed very calm as he pedaled no handed up the climb and ate food all at the same time. I was pretty smoked all that work I was doing was catching up to me.
I had only touched the bike once since the TNGA, I had done tons of work early, and had only ridden my fixie once since May, LOL.
Regardless, I kept my pace even, took my pics, kept hydrated, ate, rolled.
Cleared the River, Cleared the swamp, then got to the gas station, grabbed water and a sandwich.
As I finished Greenway cycles checkpoint, I look and see Roberto sitting there. Cool as a cucumber, waiting for a pizza pie. I go to the parking lot where his wife and Bryan's wife are at. I lay on the pavement stretching my tight back, the first real rest in 102 miles.
I felt so sore already, felt like I had done so much already, but I still kept my stop brief and rolled on, despite how sleepy I felt, I knew I had to try and clear as much of the Santos Singletrack I could before darkness.
At some point, I sat a bench to put on my lights and Team Tandem flies by.
I catch them at the Landbridge parking lot, give them some motivation and keep going. AT some point on Nayl's trails the exhaustion had gotten the best of me and I had to stop and just sleep right there on the side of the trail. I was riding really technical trail, feeling super sleepy.
I decided thirty minutes should clear my head. So I slept, and in the distance I could hear a bike and I see Roberto Roll up. I'm thinking damn he ate fast and left fast and is flying.
Then Team Tandem rolls up, and I sleep just a little more and get up and roll out feeling alot better.
Since about mile 60 I had been fighting cramps. Instead of stopping to let the pain overcome me and lock me, I would get off and walk, I figured any forward movement was better than zero movement.
At one point in Nayl's Trails, I cut a corner short, went over the bars, landed in the bushes, both my calf muscles locking up simultaneously. As I sat there and watched my calf muscles ripple in electrical painful backfires, I got a call from Rob Roberts.
He was concerned about some people he came across in Potts. I told him just to roll on through like he owns the place, he should be fine.
I got up, got going, and eventually as I emerged from the forest onto State Road 200 I caught up to Team Tandem.
I told them I was going to Wal Mart to try and put myself together. ON the road I was impressed at their speed. AT Wal Mart I drank coffee and used the facilities, changed my gps batteries and after a stretch rolled out.
I was feeling good, getting a rhythm going. Climbing, descending, coasting when I could. My right Toe got caught in the rear wheel. It was painful, but the bike stopped rolling. I get off immediately removing my tire, trying to smack it against a tree to get it straight.
But it didn't work. I didn't really know what I was doing. Plus I was tired. It seemed easier for me just to keep walking forward. So I did. I get a message from Rob saying he was done. Awesome, great ride. I keep moving.
Team Tandem rolls up and Paul said he could help me fix it. And he did, and about 1 hour or less later, I was on the road, pedaling again. I decided I would help them over the Haltapa hell track fence and stick with them for awhile, and not long after potts, as we negotiated the thick fog, I lost them in the hell track.
I waited at the end to help, but I got tired of waiting and went to the gas station on the route, to get more coffee and regroup once again. I was pretty hurt at that point, but happy that my cramps had finally stopped.
At the Gas Station I could see Jeanne was hurt, I encouraged her to rest, I was in no rush. At that point I was so happy to be alive, and still in the race. It had been such a hard day for me.
Amazingly enough we rolled on. We got on the levy, crossed the fence, got through potts, reached the caboose and after my picture I decided it was time for a stretch and take a nap.
Team Tandem joined me and we all snoozed right on the pavement, HOBO style.
That was probably a Bad Idea.
When I woke up, I felt so cold that I had to retreat to the bathrooms. I went in there and attempted to dry out, took another nap.
Decided I would get up at 6am, get dressed and leave.
This decision took some time. I was thinking maybe I could not beat my record and didn't know if I felt like bothering with it. But I didn't give into it.
I put on my dry socks.
I put on my wool base layer.
I only had a right arm warmer and a left leg warmer.
I put on my mismatch combo, zipped up my paper towel stuffed shirt and made the choice to pedal to the finish, I knew I could beat my time.
2 miles in I had to stop, the urge to pee was strong, but hardly nothing would come out, then I had to stop again. This went on for the next 15 miles, I didn't realize that I was dehydrated.
I kept going, and before long, as the day got bright I emerged at the Tucker Hill parking lot, satisfied that I had beat my record time by 22 minutes. Not the 18 hours I wanted, but maybe there will be another time.
Rob showed up. It was easy to cat nap. I must have been a comical sight in my mismatch attire.
I hogged out at Denny's, slept a couple more hours at his house and fell asleep super early that night. I was beat.
I was super impressed with how prepared everyone came out and how much homework they did. It was great to see the differences from last year to this year.
I was not satisfied entirely with my ride but I know I did ride strong and I rode hard and I finished.
25 hours and 15 minutes.
Take care,
Laters,
The NakeD InDiaN
Saturday, September 25, 2010
The LasT WoRd ON The TNGA
Yes, I know this post is about a week late, but what can I say, I'm back to 13 hour work days, coming home to cook dinner, then go to sleep to get up and do it all over again....
Regardless.
FIRST and FOREMOST. I am so FORTUNATE to have the Sponsors I have. Although they don't make my experience free, with their support and deep discounts, they make my dreams possible.
At the top of that list is Bikeworks Orlando, Especially Broadus Bunch and Carson Wampler. A 10 plus year relationship that continues hopefully to be beneficial to us both or at least entertaining. I may not be their fastest rider, but I am sure the one who rides the longest and farthest!
I already thank them once but Edith and Sarina Williams did a tag team effort to get my bike to Bikeworks for a final tune up and then brought it home to me. Working 13 hour days makes for little time to do much after, without them I would not have made the start line.
Marisabel Matta, My good friend, watched LiL'r Naked Indian and made sure he got him to school each day while I was gone.
Next, ENORMOUS thanks to all my other sponsors, Busby Flooring, Mountain Bike Feedbags, Specialized and SRAM.
I cant say enough How well my kit worked, and 90% of that KIT was created by Rob Roberts. Its a dream come true having a Best Friend who makes great bags, on top of it all Rob put my drivetrain together for this ride.
What drive train was that? Well I rode the ride 2 x 9, no granny gear, 44 big ring, 29 middle ring, 12 - 36 9 speed cassette. I think it worked awesome, the Sram XO drivetrain was flawless.
For the Ride I used Water Bottles, and my Mountain Bike Feedbags on top of holding some small essentials held one water bottle in each, I liked my set up, no complaints.
For lighting I alternated between my Light and Motion Stella and my Princeton Tec EOS bike light, again, perfect for what I was doing.
I have to thank Sean Crichton. For the first time in my Cycling Career I trained hard, and it was his plan that I followed. Truly helped me a ton, I feel kind of bad that I actually achieved the goals I was after, to ride the ride and enjoy it with minimal suffering.
Marcel Aguirre played a huge role in getting my support out to me for possible pick up and to bring out the tubes. Where I was, there was no cell signal and I was able to get a hold of him and he coordinated it all, HUGE THANKS TO YOU BROTHER!!!
Mulberry Gap made so much possible for me, cause Logistically things were not looking up. Rick Moon saved me from not finishing, I have to thank him for that as well. Mulberry gap is the place to be and I see lots of associations for us in the future.
I tried to pack as light as possible. I didn't take any toiletries except some baby wipes so for days I took no showers and didn't brush my teeth. I focused mainly on bringing items that would keep me speedy and comfortable in the temperature changes and I think I achieved that. I had some thin wool socks, some thick wool socks, a wool base layer, some Capri Hoss Shorts, 2 bibs and one shirt. Every morning I started with Fresh Bibs and on the cold mornings and at camp I wore my thick wool socks. I used that wool base layer many a time. On Tuesday morning I was quite the sight. I was wearing my wool base layer, arm warmers, and bibs only. Did I mention that my wool base layer was sleeveless? I must of looked like some sort of freak, but I was warm. I like to put a cargo net on my rear pack and its the perfect way to dry gear as I ride, also a quick way to access gear while riding. I tied my other pair of bibs to dry and sun bake. The UV rays throughout the day will bake them and kill any bacteria on them essentially cleaning them. Also my socks and arm warmers would be tied back there making for quick changes. The race really tested the extremes as it started and peaked with 40 degree weather and then got way up into the 90's before it was all said and done. I had rain gear as well, and I used the jacket on the coldest of morning, choosing not to put on my wet shirt and letting it dry on the rear pack. Everything worked great.
Unfortunately I had an issue with my front tire flatting. During the final tune up, I asked them to re stans the rear wheel, I should of had them due the front. On top of that, I should probably send that tire to specialized its probably got over thousands of pavement and dirt miles on it, been riding that particular tire hard since January 2008. All my fault really, I could of been better prepared, but like all my challenges I learned alot and the Tour or whatever my next Enormous challenge will be, will go alot smoother for sure.
The TNGA has by far been the most beautiful experience I have ever had on a bike. No matter what, It was great to be up there, pushing up over that peak, then sitting in a truck driving around doing Tech work.
Cant wait till my next adventure, which will be the CFiTT on October 9th, which I will go and attempt to break the fixie record, in the process of tuning my bike now. I have not ridden since the TNGA, but I figured that was best, let my muscles heal and my body recover, I feel great, just got to tune up the war machine so it feels all day ready.
I am planning on painting the Mamasita, so I will probably move some parts over so that I can be a serious threat even to the geared riders at the CFiTT.
Take Care,
Laters,
The NaKeD InDiaN
Regardless.
FIRST and FOREMOST. I am so FORTUNATE to have the Sponsors I have. Although they don't make my experience free, with their support and deep discounts, they make my dreams possible.
At the top of that list is Bikeworks Orlando, Especially Broadus Bunch and Carson Wampler. A 10 plus year relationship that continues hopefully to be beneficial to us both or at least entertaining. I may not be their fastest rider, but I am sure the one who rides the longest and farthest!
I already thank them once but Edith and Sarina Williams did a tag team effort to get my bike to Bikeworks for a final tune up and then brought it home to me. Working 13 hour days makes for little time to do much after, without them I would not have made the start line.
Marisabel Matta, My good friend, watched LiL'r Naked Indian and made sure he got him to school each day while I was gone.
Next, ENORMOUS thanks to all my other sponsors, Busby Flooring, Mountain Bike Feedbags, Specialized and SRAM.
I cant say enough How well my kit worked, and 90% of that KIT was created by Rob Roberts. Its a dream come true having a Best Friend who makes great bags, on top of it all Rob put my drivetrain together for this ride.
What drive train was that? Well I rode the ride 2 x 9, no granny gear, 44 big ring, 29 middle ring, 12 - 36 9 speed cassette. I think it worked awesome, the Sram XO drivetrain was flawless.
For the Ride I used Water Bottles, and my Mountain Bike Feedbags on top of holding some small essentials held one water bottle in each, I liked my set up, no complaints.
For lighting I alternated between my Light and Motion Stella and my Princeton Tec EOS bike light, again, perfect for what I was doing.
I have to thank Sean Crichton. For the first time in my Cycling Career I trained hard, and it was his plan that I followed. Truly helped me a ton, I feel kind of bad that I actually achieved the goals I was after, to ride the ride and enjoy it with minimal suffering.
Marcel Aguirre played a huge role in getting my support out to me for possible pick up and to bring out the tubes. Where I was, there was no cell signal and I was able to get a hold of him and he coordinated it all, HUGE THANKS TO YOU BROTHER!!!
Mulberry Gap made so much possible for me, cause Logistically things were not looking up. Rick Moon saved me from not finishing, I have to thank him for that as well. Mulberry gap is the place to be and I see lots of associations for us in the future.
I tried to pack as light as possible. I didn't take any toiletries except some baby wipes so for days I took no showers and didn't brush my teeth. I focused mainly on bringing items that would keep me speedy and comfortable in the temperature changes and I think I achieved that. I had some thin wool socks, some thick wool socks, a wool base layer, some Capri Hoss Shorts, 2 bibs and one shirt. Every morning I started with Fresh Bibs and on the cold mornings and at camp I wore my thick wool socks. I used that wool base layer many a time. On Tuesday morning I was quite the sight. I was wearing my wool base layer, arm warmers, and bibs only. Did I mention that my wool base layer was sleeveless? I must of looked like some sort of freak, but I was warm. I like to put a cargo net on my rear pack and its the perfect way to dry gear as I ride, also a quick way to access gear while riding. I tied my other pair of bibs to dry and sun bake. The UV rays throughout the day will bake them and kill any bacteria on them essentially cleaning them. Also my socks and arm warmers would be tied back there making for quick changes. The race really tested the extremes as it started and peaked with 40 degree weather and then got way up into the 90's before it was all said and done. I had rain gear as well, and I used the jacket on the coldest of morning, choosing not to put on my wet shirt and letting it dry on the rear pack. Everything worked great.
Unfortunately I had an issue with my front tire flatting. During the final tune up, I asked them to re stans the rear wheel, I should of had them due the front. On top of that, I should probably send that tire to specialized its probably got over thousands of pavement and dirt miles on it, been riding that particular tire hard since January 2008. All my fault really, I could of been better prepared, but like all my challenges I learned alot and the Tour or whatever my next Enormous challenge will be, will go alot smoother for sure.
The TNGA has by far been the most beautiful experience I have ever had on a bike. No matter what, It was great to be up there, pushing up over that peak, then sitting in a truck driving around doing Tech work.
Cant wait till my next adventure, which will be the CFiTT on October 9th, which I will go and attempt to break the fixie record, in the process of tuning my bike now. I have not ridden since the TNGA, but I figured that was best, let my muscles heal and my body recover, I feel great, just got to tune up the war machine so it feels all day ready.
I am planning on painting the Mamasita, so I will probably move some parts over so that I can be a serious threat even to the geared riders at the CFiTT.
Take Care,
Laters,
The NaKeD InDiaN
Thursday, September 16, 2010
TnGa StaGe 4.5 The CHAsE
I heard the distinct sound of tires crunching gravel.
I could see two sets of headlights pulling into the parking lot.
I look at my Droid, its 630am.
I watch from my camouflaged perch, half expecting someone to jump out the car and call my name. My extraction team had come.
But when they get out the car and start talking to one another I cant understand a word they are saying.
I figure it's maybe hikers or bikers so I get out of my hammock and walk down from the high position I had mounted my hammock up on the mountain side.
I cant make out any faces, but it looks like its 3 men and one woman. As I get closer, I realize the reason I cant understand them its cause they are speaking some sort of Asian Dialect.
No matter, I ask, "are you guys bikers or hikers?".
No response.
Then after what seemed like an eternity one of them conjures a spell of words in his best broken english "Whadda R U Doin Heyre, You Sleap Here??" I try to explain to a group of folks who don't understand that I am a mountain bike racer, I started several days ago in South Carolina, that I had flatted.
But no one understood me so I walked away and went back up to my loft on the mountain side.
As I sat there and heard them talk some more eventually I watched as they loaded up their shot guns and walked up the trail towards the peaks.
Marcel told me they were close.
In retrospect I wish I would of known the rules better cause I could of accepted a tube from Ruth and not had been penalized.
O well, My fault, right!
Marcel said they were coming.
Eventually, I see a familiar car tearing into the parking lot, moving at a speed that resembled an emergency of life or death. It was my new best friend Rick Moon!!
I was so happy to see him. He offered me a tube. And I took not one but two. He also told me there was a creek on the trail up aways over the peak that I could drink at, and it was safe.
This was of course not my first visit of the morning.
Ruth and Jeff had pulled up two hours earlier. I told them my predicament. Like I said Ruth offered help, but I declined, again, because I didn't know the rules enough.
Rick was my second visit, and when he offered the tube, I didn't hesitate to accept. I didn't care, I had worked hard to get here.
This had been a route that I had known about for almost 2 years and wanted to do.
This bikepacking race, my third to be exact, was something I had been training and preparing for.
I was not going to let my hard work go to waste over a flat, that's bullshit. So I tubed up and got ready to roll out.
Rick left, on his way to work.
Then Dianne From Mulberry gap pulled up, and I took more tubes for her.
As I got ready for battle, I packed one tube in my Front bag and tied two tubes to the net on my rear bag, I was determined to finish and if I could Chase down my fellow racers Ruth and Jeff.
Off I went.
Railing the single track when I could. Hitting the jumps when they called upon me. Shredding the trails like a well crafted swordsman. Climbing in the saddle when I could, and pushing when I had too. Taking a break here and there, each time telling myself, I bet they walked this one, and they had to have taken a break too.
Eventually I see wet tire tracks on a huge creek crossing that actually had metal grates installed in the middle of it.
I turn up the heat, and on a downhill come around the corner to find my fellow racers.
I tell them I will wait at the road, cause I can hear its close.
We meet up, turns out Jeff Flatted. We were all low on water. I had one bottle left and so did Ruth and Jeff was out. He wanted to go to the store. I only had one mission. Forward.
So I took off.
As I was riding away from them, whilst pushing up singletrack, here comes little red Shredding Hood Ruth passing me on a climb that I was walking(how embarassing), dancing on the pedals like a ballerina dancing on cracked ice. It was effortless and I was dumbfounded.
I admit it motivated me and when I got back on, I was really mashing the gears.
And then on a downhill, there she is and here I come, the Big Bad Wolf, hunting for Red Shredding Hood.
I pass her, making a sound and spooking a little. I will fully admit, I was not going to let anyone finish in front of me if I could help it. But I also know, that she would not leave Jeff's side cause she was not 100% solid on navigation. So Even though I would gap her in certain sections, where I would attack and attack, if a tricky intersection came I waited for her, but trust me, she was right there, I wasn't waiting long, this girl is No Joke.
And we rode, pretty much the whole way out, even taking time to ride next to each other, even though we were keeping the pace high.
On the rail trail we came across the rabid dogs that Rob Rob spoke off, and I told her to ride off that I would handle them, and I did. Neary a problem they were to me as my Yelling of "STOP" did indeed stop them.
I spot a church and we stop to get water, and Ruth offers me some country time Lemonade.
When I got there, I Immediately chugged a bottle. Then I chugged a lemonade filled bottle, then I filled up two bottles and we hauled ass.
That sugar hit me like a quadruple espresso shot. This section of the route reminded me of the old enterprise rail bed that I have trained constant hours on and I got into my freddies and started flying away.
If I can smell the finish line I can go like a PRO!
We hit pavement and we are absolutely flying, the both of us.
Andrew from Mulberry gap is on the side of the road, he tells us we got three miles left and we are off. I am really putting down some serious Tempo.
I look back and Ruth is Right there. Damn. I though for sure I would pull away.
As I keep the Tempo up, I look and she flies right by me. Little Red Shredding Hood was on the attack, or so I thought, but she did fly by me.
Even though I am almost pegged, I dig deeper, and I pull myself up to her wheel and I wait.
Wait for her head to pop up just a little and I come around her, having to full on pedal sprint as hard as I can, get around her, tuck into the freddies and go.
I get around her, but she still holds my wheel. As we hit a climb, I am gassed, but she stays behind me, we pedal across another little flat, and she is back there. At that very moment, I think of Rob Rob...."Attack on the climbs...." and as soon as the road kicked up just a little bit, I got up on it, opening up a bigger gap. Big enough that when we got close to the line I coasted across the line with Ruth 2 seconds behind me.
8:15pm with 27 seconds, 4 days 11 hours and 48 minutes.
Almost a full day behind my dream time and within my realistic goal time.
56000 feet of climbing 343 Gps miles, probably close to 360 real miles with all my missed turns and repaired based detours.
I hike and biked and camped along the way from one side of Georgia to the other, hitting every freaking mountain along the way. To say I am proud is an understatement.
I eventually received a 12 hour penalty for accepting the mobile support, but no matter, I had accomplished a dream.
Admittedly, and I hate to say this, but, this was not the hardest thing I have done on a bike. Admittedly I have spent a lot of time preparing, so a dream was fulfilled cause I was able to do a long bikepacking tour and I was able to enjoy it and not suffer. I didnt get a single saddle sore, I didnt get any knee pains and never even had a cramp. Sure I had my moments, but the beauty remains and the fun was there.
Admittedly I don't even know if I want to do the Tour Divide now. A 20 day commitment might be real hard to pull off for a single dad. Maybe I will wait another year or five or maybe I will go do the shorter races first, like the AZT and the CTR. Or maybe not. The allure of riding from Canada to Mexico by bicycle is very strong. The desire is still there. Its just hard, with all that is happening to see me being able to finance such an endeavour. The challenges right now seem insurmountable, like I said, I am the one who has to move mountains before I can climb them.
Regardless, when it all comes right down to it, I am very confident I can do the divide now. My preparation is right on track and I want to be there as long as I can make it happen.
Expect one more Wrap up Post, giving out the much needed thank you's to all that helped make this thing possible for me.
Check back tomorrow or Sunday, LMAO.
Take Care,
Laters,
The NaKeD InDiaN
I could see two sets of headlights pulling into the parking lot.
I look at my Droid, its 630am.
I watch from my camouflaged perch, half expecting someone to jump out the car and call my name. My extraction team had come.
But when they get out the car and start talking to one another I cant understand a word they are saying.
I figure it's maybe hikers or bikers so I get out of my hammock and walk down from the high position I had mounted my hammock up on the mountain side.
I cant make out any faces, but it looks like its 3 men and one woman. As I get closer, I realize the reason I cant understand them its cause they are speaking some sort of Asian Dialect.
No matter, I ask, "are you guys bikers or hikers?".
No response.
Then after what seemed like an eternity one of them conjures a spell of words in his best broken english "Whadda R U Doin Heyre, You Sleap Here??" I try to explain to a group of folks who don't understand that I am a mountain bike racer, I started several days ago in South Carolina, that I had flatted.
But no one understood me so I walked away and went back up to my loft on the mountain side.
As I sat there and heard them talk some more eventually I watched as they loaded up their shot guns and walked up the trail towards the peaks.
Marcel told me they were close.
In retrospect I wish I would of known the rules better cause I could of accepted a tube from Ruth and not had been penalized.
O well, My fault, right!
Marcel said they were coming.
Eventually, I see a familiar car tearing into the parking lot, moving at a speed that resembled an emergency of life or death. It was my new best friend Rick Moon!!
I was so happy to see him. He offered me a tube. And I took not one but two. He also told me there was a creek on the trail up aways over the peak that I could drink at, and it was safe.
This was of course not my first visit of the morning.
Ruth and Jeff had pulled up two hours earlier. I told them my predicament. Like I said Ruth offered help, but I declined, again, because I didn't know the rules enough.
Rick was my second visit, and when he offered the tube, I didn't hesitate to accept. I didn't care, I had worked hard to get here.
This had been a route that I had known about for almost 2 years and wanted to do.
This bikepacking race, my third to be exact, was something I had been training and preparing for.
I was not going to let my hard work go to waste over a flat, that's bullshit. So I tubed up and got ready to roll out.
Rick left, on his way to work.
Then Dianne From Mulberry gap pulled up, and I took more tubes for her.
As I got ready for battle, I packed one tube in my Front bag and tied two tubes to the net on my rear bag, I was determined to finish and if I could Chase down my fellow racers Ruth and Jeff.
Off I went.
Railing the single track when I could. Hitting the jumps when they called upon me. Shredding the trails like a well crafted swordsman. Climbing in the saddle when I could, and pushing when I had too. Taking a break here and there, each time telling myself, I bet they walked this one, and they had to have taken a break too.
Eventually I see wet tire tracks on a huge creek crossing that actually had metal grates installed in the middle of it.
I turn up the heat, and on a downhill come around the corner to find my fellow racers.
I tell them I will wait at the road, cause I can hear its close.
We meet up, turns out Jeff Flatted. We were all low on water. I had one bottle left and so did Ruth and Jeff was out. He wanted to go to the store. I only had one mission. Forward.
So I took off.
As I was riding away from them, whilst pushing up singletrack, here comes little red Shredding Hood Ruth passing me on a climb that I was walking(how embarassing), dancing on the pedals like a ballerina dancing on cracked ice. It was effortless and I was dumbfounded.
I admit it motivated me and when I got back on, I was really mashing the gears.
And then on a downhill, there she is and here I come, the Big Bad Wolf, hunting for Red Shredding Hood.
I pass her, making a sound and spooking a little. I will fully admit, I was not going to let anyone finish in front of me if I could help it. But I also know, that she would not leave Jeff's side cause she was not 100% solid on navigation. So Even though I would gap her in certain sections, where I would attack and attack, if a tricky intersection came I waited for her, but trust me, she was right there, I wasn't waiting long, this girl is No Joke.
And we rode, pretty much the whole way out, even taking time to ride next to each other, even though we were keeping the pace high.
On the rail trail we came across the rabid dogs that Rob Rob spoke off, and I told her to ride off that I would handle them, and I did. Neary a problem they were to me as my Yelling of "STOP" did indeed stop them.
I spot a church and we stop to get water, and Ruth offers me some country time Lemonade.
When I got there, I Immediately chugged a bottle. Then I chugged a lemonade filled bottle, then I filled up two bottles and we hauled ass.
That sugar hit me like a quadruple espresso shot. This section of the route reminded me of the old enterprise rail bed that I have trained constant hours on and I got into my freddies and started flying away.
If I can smell the finish line I can go like a PRO!
We hit pavement and we are absolutely flying, the both of us.
Andrew from Mulberry gap is on the side of the road, he tells us we got three miles left and we are off. I am really putting down some serious Tempo.
I look back and Ruth is Right there. Damn. I though for sure I would pull away.
As I keep the Tempo up, I look and she flies right by me. Little Red Shredding Hood was on the attack, or so I thought, but she did fly by me.
Even though I am almost pegged, I dig deeper, and I pull myself up to her wheel and I wait.
Wait for her head to pop up just a little and I come around her, having to full on pedal sprint as hard as I can, get around her, tuck into the freddies and go.
I get around her, but she still holds my wheel. As we hit a climb, I am gassed, but she stays behind me, we pedal across another little flat, and she is back there. At that very moment, I think of Rob Rob...."Attack on the climbs...." and as soon as the road kicked up just a little bit, I got up on it, opening up a bigger gap. Big enough that when we got close to the line I coasted across the line with Ruth 2 seconds behind me.
8:15pm with 27 seconds, 4 days 11 hours and 48 minutes.
Almost a full day behind my dream time and within my realistic goal time.
56000 feet of climbing 343 Gps miles, probably close to 360 real miles with all my missed turns and repaired based detours.
I hike and biked and camped along the way from one side of Georgia to the other, hitting every freaking mountain along the way. To say I am proud is an understatement.
I eventually received a 12 hour penalty for accepting the mobile support, but no matter, I had accomplished a dream.
Admittedly, and I hate to say this, but, this was not the hardest thing I have done on a bike. Admittedly I have spent a lot of time preparing, so a dream was fulfilled cause I was able to do a long bikepacking tour and I was able to enjoy it and not suffer. I didnt get a single saddle sore, I didnt get any knee pains and never even had a cramp. Sure I had my moments, but the beauty remains and the fun was there.
Admittedly I don't even know if I want to do the Tour Divide now. A 20 day commitment might be real hard to pull off for a single dad. Maybe I will wait another year or five or maybe I will go do the shorter races first, like the AZT and the CTR. Or maybe not. The allure of riding from Canada to Mexico by bicycle is very strong. The desire is still there. Its just hard, with all that is happening to see me being able to finance such an endeavour. The challenges right now seem insurmountable, like I said, I am the one who has to move mountains before I can climb them.
Regardless, when it all comes right down to it, I am very confident I can do the divide now. My preparation is right on track and I want to be there as long as I can make it happen.
Expect one more Wrap up Post, giving out the much needed thank you's to all that helped make this thing possible for me.
Check back tomorrow or Sunday, LMAO.
Take Care,
Laters,
The NaKeD InDiaN
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
TnGa StaGe FOuR MuLBeRRy GaP To SQuiRReL GaP
I admit I was apprehensive after listening to the other racers.
I had a slight fear that I would become so comfortable at Mulberry gap that the next morning I would see it better just to pull the plug then to keep going.
But that morning, as I saw Matt Lee pack up and leave, and I caught a little more snooze, there was no apprehension as I loaded up my bike, ate two of the Best Bacon Egg and Cheese Sandwiches ever, and rolled out for second breakfast on Pinhoti 3.
I was now beginning my third official day of Eat, Sleep and Ride, and I felt great. As I made my way up the Pinhoti, I was savoring every morsel of dirt that laid before me. Thankful, that I had finally found the balance of riding hard everyday, in a consistent manner, then waking up the next with the legs still feeling crisp and sharp.
It was sheer pleasure to be had the entire time, when I finally reached Tatum Lead, I saw bear cub on one side of the old overgrown road, and Immediately and Intentionally Yelled to spook the animal, sure enough another one charged out the woods right behind him.
This was my second bear sighting of the trip. The first one was on the fire roads in the Cohutta section on a downhill I watched as one darted across the road as I made my way down.
I felt so blessed by this sighting that once I reached a peak, I stopped to give the world of MTBCast and Update.
Called my Mom as well to let her know I was OK, cause I know she was worried about me being on this adventure.
As I got back on the bike, it seemed like in no time at all I was on the pavement, and I tucked deep into the freddies to make my way to Dalton. Once I was sure that Pavement was all there was left, I took my Bandanna off my Aero bars, soaked it in water and placed it on my head under my helmet to keep me cool.
The road to Dalton was going to be a hammer fest for me as I had every intention to make some good time.
Being from Florida, I am real strong on Flats and Rollers so I took advantage of them and kept the pace Scorching across the Valley.
Right before reaching Dalton I saw a Person waiving to me on the side of the road and as I approached, I saw that it was my new Best Friend Rick Moon. We chatted it up, He reminded me who he was and I told him I had not forgotten. He Told me that I had some tough singletrack ahead and I was off to eat, and stock before heading up the mountain again.
You would think after 3 days I would have learned my lesson regarding lunch. The lesson of not eating too much and getting sluggish, but I am dumb. I ate too much and the climb up to Dug Gap was Hard. Had to talk myself out of walking on the road and I didn't walk, merely to avoid embarrassment.(from the passing cars ya know)
AS I finally reached the Top of the ridge, I was having such a hard time staying cool. I touched my lips and they were noticeably swollen. I drank and drank but nothing would quench my thirst. I eventually just took my shirt off and broke a cardinal sin of cycling, riding shirtless while wearing bib shorts. But, I knew I was alone, so I didn't care. Who was gonna see me. I had seen Jeff and Ruth in Town, but they had to restock, so I knew that there wasn't anyone for miles.
On top the ridge it immediately gave way to the most technical Rock garden I have ever ridden. 4 miles of rock garden to be exact. But, I live for stuff Like this. I live to push my technical limits and actually fantasized about riding it on my Fixed Gear War Machine. Technical Mayhem for miles and miles, O what a RUSH. Eventually I Flatted my Last tube. I was so concerned at this point and that I started to kicking myself in the ass for not fixing the issue when I had the chance.
After the fix, onward I pushed and eventually I got control of my body temperature and put my shirt back on.
Before I reached Dalton,
Before I started riding the Ridiculous Rock Garden,
I had made a pact, that I would take it easy till Dalton and then I would turn myself inside out, no matter how long I would ride, to finish. All night if I had too.
This was my plan and I had the energy and the lights to do it. I wanted to Catch Cricket. I knew that once the Sun Set she would stop, and I would pass her, maybe chat, before continuing my 24 hour self imposed solo.
So I was rolling, the day once again gave way to the night and before I knew It I was descending the last 100 feet of Squirrel gap and my last tube Flatted. I cursed. I felt it in my heart that my race was over.
I walked to the parking lot, only to find I had barely a hair of cell signal. I first attempted to patch the tube. But I had no luck. Then I walked up the mountain to try and get a call off, but no luck. Eventually I decided to just put up my hammock and wait the daylight. I decided, just on a whim to see if I could get a hold of my friend Marcel in Florida via text message. I did and He said he called Mulberry gap and left them a message. I figured my race was over and decided to enjoy my last night in the woods. It was 1030 at night, and I was out of water.
After putting up my hammock I searched for a creek or anything, but all was dry. I decided to just enjoy the night and slept well in my little hanging Cocoon.
Over and Over in my head, I played out all the chances I had to fix this tire.
Over and Over I played in my head this exact dialogue:
I have had this front tire since January 2008. Have ridden and raced it, in the CFiTT, 2 PMBARS, 10 50 milers, tons of mapping rides, several bike commutes, the Huracan 300 and almost 300 miles of Georgia mountains. I guess I could of got a new front tire before the race.
Even with all this playing in my mind, My body didn't have any trouble finding a deep, deep restful bliss.
Last Part Tomorrow,
Take Care,
Laters,
The NaKeD InDiaN
I had a slight fear that I would become so comfortable at Mulberry gap that the next morning I would see it better just to pull the plug then to keep going.
But that morning, as I saw Matt Lee pack up and leave, and I caught a little more snooze, there was no apprehension as I loaded up my bike, ate two of the Best Bacon Egg and Cheese Sandwiches ever, and rolled out for second breakfast on Pinhoti 3.
I was now beginning my third official day of Eat, Sleep and Ride, and I felt great. As I made my way up the Pinhoti, I was savoring every morsel of dirt that laid before me. Thankful, that I had finally found the balance of riding hard everyday, in a consistent manner, then waking up the next with the legs still feeling crisp and sharp.
It was sheer pleasure to be had the entire time, when I finally reached Tatum Lead, I saw bear cub on one side of the old overgrown road, and Immediately and Intentionally Yelled to spook the animal, sure enough another one charged out the woods right behind him.
This was my second bear sighting of the trip. The first one was on the fire roads in the Cohutta section on a downhill I watched as one darted across the road as I made my way down.
I felt so blessed by this sighting that once I reached a peak, I stopped to give the world of MTBCast and Update.
Called my Mom as well to let her know I was OK, cause I know she was worried about me being on this adventure.
As I got back on the bike, it seemed like in no time at all I was on the pavement, and I tucked deep into the freddies to make my way to Dalton. Once I was sure that Pavement was all there was left, I took my Bandanna off my Aero bars, soaked it in water and placed it on my head under my helmet to keep me cool.
The road to Dalton was going to be a hammer fest for me as I had every intention to make some good time.
Being from Florida, I am real strong on Flats and Rollers so I took advantage of them and kept the pace Scorching across the Valley.
Right before reaching Dalton I saw a Person waiving to me on the side of the road and as I approached, I saw that it was my new Best Friend Rick Moon. We chatted it up, He reminded me who he was and I told him I had not forgotten. He Told me that I had some tough singletrack ahead and I was off to eat, and stock before heading up the mountain again.
You would think after 3 days I would have learned my lesson regarding lunch. The lesson of not eating too much and getting sluggish, but I am dumb. I ate too much and the climb up to Dug Gap was Hard. Had to talk myself out of walking on the road and I didn't walk, merely to avoid embarrassment.(from the passing cars ya know)
AS I finally reached the Top of the ridge, I was having such a hard time staying cool. I touched my lips and they were noticeably swollen. I drank and drank but nothing would quench my thirst. I eventually just took my shirt off and broke a cardinal sin of cycling, riding shirtless while wearing bib shorts. But, I knew I was alone, so I didn't care. Who was gonna see me. I had seen Jeff and Ruth in Town, but they had to restock, so I knew that there wasn't anyone for miles.
On top the ridge it immediately gave way to the most technical Rock garden I have ever ridden. 4 miles of rock garden to be exact. But, I live for stuff Like this. I live to push my technical limits and actually fantasized about riding it on my Fixed Gear War Machine. Technical Mayhem for miles and miles, O what a RUSH. Eventually I Flatted my Last tube. I was so concerned at this point and that I started to kicking myself in the ass for not fixing the issue when I had the chance.
After the fix, onward I pushed and eventually I got control of my body temperature and put my shirt back on.
Before I reached Dalton,
Before I started riding the Ridiculous Rock Garden,
I had made a pact, that I would take it easy till Dalton and then I would turn myself inside out, no matter how long I would ride, to finish. All night if I had too.
This was my plan and I had the energy and the lights to do it. I wanted to Catch Cricket. I knew that once the Sun Set she would stop, and I would pass her, maybe chat, before continuing my 24 hour self imposed solo.
So I was rolling, the day once again gave way to the night and before I knew It I was descending the last 100 feet of Squirrel gap and my last tube Flatted. I cursed. I felt it in my heart that my race was over.
I walked to the parking lot, only to find I had barely a hair of cell signal. I first attempted to patch the tube. But I had no luck. Then I walked up the mountain to try and get a call off, but no luck. Eventually I decided to just put up my hammock and wait the daylight. I decided, just on a whim to see if I could get a hold of my friend Marcel in Florida via text message. I did and He said he called Mulberry gap and left them a message. I figured my race was over and decided to enjoy my last night in the woods. It was 1030 at night, and I was out of water.
After putting up my hammock I searched for a creek or anything, but all was dry. I decided to just enjoy the night and slept well in my little hanging Cocoon.
Over and Over in my head, I played out all the chances I had to fix this tire.
Over and Over I played in my head this exact dialogue:
I have had this front tire since January 2008. Have ridden and raced it, in the CFiTT, 2 PMBARS, 10 50 milers, tons of mapping rides, several bike commutes, the Huracan 300 and almost 300 miles of Georgia mountains. I guess I could of got a new front tire before the race.
Even with all this playing in my mind, My body didn't have any trouble finding a deep, deep restful bliss.
Last Part Tomorrow,
Take Care,
Laters,
The NaKeD InDiaN
Sunday, September 12, 2010
TnGa StaGe ThReE, LoNg BrAnCh To MulBeRRy GaP
The weather was perfect Monday morning as I got up and got packed up ready to start my day on some singletrack.
As I was finishing packing up and getting ready to go, I see a dog dash through the creek followed closely by some hikers.
Cordial everyone was as pleasantries were exchanged and they continued on their hike.
I ate my breakfast which consisted of a couple of candy bars and rolled out, happy to be starting my day on some skinny trail instead of Gravel.
By this day I was happy to be doing something other than Gravel Grinding.
I had seen all types by then. More Gravel road then I ever thought imaginable, I consider myself and expert now.
As I made my way up the single track and down the single track I was having so much fun that before I knew it I popped out on the same parking lot I had started the night before.
At that point I wished I had bothered to at least took the cue sheets for the single track as the GPS Green Line I normally followed was not very accurate.
I remember something about a green mountain and that was the only turn I saw, so back I went, re rode half of the trail, went up green mountain, only to do an excellent descent to another parking lot and then get even more directions from a guy who lived in a cabin and waived me over.
For a second I thought I was going to get an offer for coffee, but instead he was able to give me a better Idea in which direction I should be going, and all my detours eventually were for not as I was on track.
The wonderful skinny trail gave way to gravel and pavement, and at some point I started running low on water. I saw a gas station and asked them if they had any vending machines and they said no. I kept going on route, saw a church and after some searching found a water spickett under the building and was able to at least get water.
On I pushed up and down some pretty big rollers. On this day I had found a new rhythm in my climbing. Some Climbs I would actually push the big ring and push the big gear and climb standing, others I would spin and grind away, and others, I would get off and push. But the rhythm was well established and much of the slipping from climbing that I did in day one, had passed to well seasoned adaption to the current conditions.
At some point I pop out on pavement and see what I think is a sign for a grocery store in the distance and pull up front, park the bike and get a huge amount of food to consume.
I sit, eat, drink, eat, drink, eat, and then before I know it, Cricket and Stephen pulled up. Once again I was happy to see them and at the same time disappointed that I had been caught. Once again we rolled out together and spent a minute of discussion, talking about distance goals.
They wanted to get past Mulberry, I was content with just reaching it, after learning that my distance estimates had been way off and after comparing mileage with them I had covered at least 15 more miles then they had.
They apparently came across the guy who gave me directions, and we continued on wondering when the Pinhoti would come.
Once again, the road kicked up and once again Crickett and Stephen drop me and once again I had ate too much and had to rest and ride, rest and ride, till I felt better.
More road unfolded in front of me. And then it gave way to Gravel, and then I recognize and notice that I am Big Ring climbing a part of the Cohutta Course that I had to walk a couple of years before. Interesting how time changes things. Since I recognized and new part of this area, I was able to hammer the huge rollers and use the big ring to motor halfway up some of the climbs and really let go of the brakes on the downhills.
Finally after some gravel grinding, I was back on the skinny trail and back on the Pinhoti.
The day gave way to dark and creek crossings. As I crossed some creeks I started noticing wet tire tracks and that eventually pushed me to pick up my pace. And just as I was wondering, looking my odometer estimating when Mulberry gap would appear, I come up a small incline and find Cricket and Stephen. They tell me they had been walking, I don't bother asking why, and Stephen tells me they will probably bivy there, I was motoring on to the Gap. He told me he estimated it to be 4 miles and I really picked up the pace.
Up and down, executing some sweet fully loaded bike jumps along the way and finally after a couple of false endings, I come out on Cosamunga road and I know I am close to Mulberry Gap, but nothing looks familiar.
As I see the start of Pinhoti 3 I Look behind me and see the sign that says .4 miles to Mulberry gap and I take off, wondering if I anyone will be up, or what will happen when I get there.
As I make the steep climb up the access road, I hear yelling and cheering, roll right into an interview with Joe Polk from MTB Cast.
All this was very surreal for me, as I have been listening to MTB Cast for years, it was just an awesome moment for me to be on it.
Awesome moment, after eating, doing laundry, showering and getting changed, to sit there eat food and chat with Matt Lee, and Eddie and Nam O'Dea and Joe Polk. All great story tellers, I was so entertained. Charley a fellow racer was there as well and so was Amy and some others from Mulberry gap. It was so nice to be done with a huge chunk of the route.
As I drank some beers with Joe and Matt, I eventually settled into my cot with some warm blankets drifting off into one of the most dream like, satisfying slumbers that I have had in years.
Wow, is all I can say about the ride and the experience up to this point!
Part 4 tomorrow!!!
Take Care,
Laters,
The NaKeD InDiaN
As I was finishing packing up and getting ready to go, I see a dog dash through the creek followed closely by some hikers.
Cordial everyone was as pleasantries were exchanged and they continued on their hike.
I ate my breakfast which consisted of a couple of candy bars and rolled out, happy to be starting my day on some skinny trail instead of Gravel.
By this day I was happy to be doing something other than Gravel Grinding.
I had seen all types by then. More Gravel road then I ever thought imaginable, I consider myself and expert now.
As I made my way up the single track and down the single track I was having so much fun that before I knew it I popped out on the same parking lot I had started the night before.
At that point I wished I had bothered to at least took the cue sheets for the single track as the GPS Green Line I normally followed was not very accurate.
I remember something about a green mountain and that was the only turn I saw, so back I went, re rode half of the trail, went up green mountain, only to do an excellent descent to another parking lot and then get even more directions from a guy who lived in a cabin and waived me over.
For a second I thought I was going to get an offer for coffee, but instead he was able to give me a better Idea in which direction I should be going, and all my detours eventually were for not as I was on track.
The wonderful skinny trail gave way to gravel and pavement, and at some point I started running low on water. I saw a gas station and asked them if they had any vending machines and they said no. I kept going on route, saw a church and after some searching found a water spickett under the building and was able to at least get water.
On I pushed up and down some pretty big rollers. On this day I had found a new rhythm in my climbing. Some Climbs I would actually push the big ring and push the big gear and climb standing, others I would spin and grind away, and others, I would get off and push. But the rhythm was well established and much of the slipping from climbing that I did in day one, had passed to well seasoned adaption to the current conditions.
At some point I pop out on pavement and see what I think is a sign for a grocery store in the distance and pull up front, park the bike and get a huge amount of food to consume.
I sit, eat, drink, eat, drink, eat, and then before I know it, Cricket and Stephen pulled up. Once again I was happy to see them and at the same time disappointed that I had been caught. Once again we rolled out together and spent a minute of discussion, talking about distance goals.
They wanted to get past Mulberry, I was content with just reaching it, after learning that my distance estimates had been way off and after comparing mileage with them I had covered at least 15 more miles then they had.
They apparently came across the guy who gave me directions, and we continued on wondering when the Pinhoti would come.
Once again, the road kicked up and once again Crickett and Stephen drop me and once again I had ate too much and had to rest and ride, rest and ride, till I felt better.
More road unfolded in front of me. And then it gave way to Gravel, and then I recognize and notice that I am Big Ring climbing a part of the Cohutta Course that I had to walk a couple of years before. Interesting how time changes things. Since I recognized and new part of this area, I was able to hammer the huge rollers and use the big ring to motor halfway up some of the climbs and really let go of the brakes on the downhills.
Finally after some gravel grinding, I was back on the skinny trail and back on the Pinhoti.
The day gave way to dark and creek crossings. As I crossed some creeks I started noticing wet tire tracks and that eventually pushed me to pick up my pace. And just as I was wondering, looking my odometer estimating when Mulberry gap would appear, I come up a small incline and find Cricket and Stephen. They tell me they had been walking, I don't bother asking why, and Stephen tells me they will probably bivy there, I was motoring on to the Gap. He told me he estimated it to be 4 miles and I really picked up the pace.
Up and down, executing some sweet fully loaded bike jumps along the way and finally after a couple of false endings, I come out on Cosamunga road and I know I am close to Mulberry Gap, but nothing looks familiar.
As I see the start of Pinhoti 3 I Look behind me and see the sign that says .4 miles to Mulberry gap and I take off, wondering if I anyone will be up, or what will happen when I get there.
As I make the steep climb up the access road, I hear yelling and cheering, roll right into an interview with Joe Polk from MTB Cast.
All this was very surreal for me, as I have been listening to MTB Cast for years, it was just an awesome moment for me to be on it.Awesome moment, after eating, doing laundry, showering and getting changed, to sit there eat food and chat with Matt Lee, and Eddie and Nam O'Dea and Joe Polk. All great story tellers, I was so entertained. Charley a fellow racer was there as well and so was Amy and some others from Mulberry gap. It was so nice to be done with a huge chunk of the route.
As I drank some beers with Joe and Matt, I eventually settled into my cot with some warm blankets drifting off into one of the most dream like, satisfying slumbers that I have had in years.
Wow, is all I can say about the ride and the experience up to this point!
Part 4 tomorrow!!!
Take Care,
Laters,
The NaKeD InDiaN
Saturday, September 11, 2010
TnGa StaGe TwO, MiLL CreeK RoaD to LonG BraNcH TrAiL
I was fortunate that I had come prepared.
That morning was cold.
No other way to say it. I got up, put my fresh pair of bibs on, my thick wool socks, my long Hoss shorts, my arm warmers, showers pass jacket and wool based layer.
I figure I wanted to be comfortable in the cold till my core warmed up.
I jump out the back of the trailer start packing things up and tying things to my rear pack when I discover that my front tire was low on air.
No worry I think, I will pump it, spin it and it should seal fine. Well, not the case at all as when I look for my mini pump, it was gone. Must of shook off on that crazy gravel rocky road I rode the night before.
I cant really describe the sense of frustration that I felt at that moment, mixed with a sense of panic. I knew I still had 20 plus miles to Helen for a chance of repair. I didn't remember the rules well enough to know if I could of accepted assistance from a fellow competitor, and I didn't have anyway to repair it.
I call MTB CAST to give them the update.
And then I start walking.
I decide to stick my thumb out, but not a single person wanted to respond or help.
I only had my emergency calories left, so I was chowing down on Almonds and cranberries as I walked and stuck out my thumb in hopes for a ride to Helen, then a return to where I left the course to continue with the race.
SO, I walked up the road, and down the road and up and down, then I reach an intersection. The road side points to the right and says "Brasstown Bald" which I recognize from the Tour De Georgia cycling race. I see a road sign after that says, "12 miles to Helen". I was devastated. I was going to pull the plug, there was no way in hell that I was going to walk 12 miles.
Just as despair and defeat were settling in, 2 cyclist pull up asking if I needed anything and I said, "Yes, do you have a mini pump". Dave did, and sold it to me after my generous offer of $20. I would of needed this pump the rest of the race, so the investment was worthy to me. I tried to seat the bead and get the Stan's to work, but it seemed to have either evaporated or leaked out. So, I took out the rim strip and pumped up the tube and hauled ass out of there back the way I came to return to the route.
I updated MTB CAST.
As I climbed up the dirt road, I had little water left and down to my emergency calories. As I am pedaling the endless but beautiful uphill Gravel road, a blue truck pulls along my side and ask if I was "Karlos".
"I said yes" and "they ask me why I had gone off course". At that point I knew they had been watching the race.
He offered me a coke and I accepted the coke and the brownie and the Gatorade and I got rolling again. He continued up the road to see if he could see any other racers, a virtual rolling Trail Angel, how awesome!
I don't know how many Racer's had passed me during the time consuming detour that I was forced to take, but since he continued up the road I assumed there were some I could catch and the race was on and my pace was combative as I ascended Tray Mountain.
At the top, I turn and see the helmet of Ruth Cunningham, riding along with her was Jeff Papenfus and after quickly catching up, I pass by and start riding some kick ass buff singletrack, my first real taste of the trip.
I had so much fun going down that mountain, and riding that crazy rocky gravel road that reminisced me of a triple wide version of Farlow Gap, I was in Mountain Bike heaven once again, just enjoying the fact that I was out riding and enjoying some beautiful Georgia trail.
As I popped out on the Road I let out a Huge Yell as I am over the top happy that I am finally back on pavement after completing another Dirty section of the TNGA. I tuck into the Freddies and Haul ass to Helen, passing 30 cars along the way.
Briefly as I passed the Woody's bike shop sign I considered going into see if I could re Stan's my wheel, but didn't think I would have another flat during the ride so I hammered on for food, refreshments, medicine and restock at Helen.
When I pulled up to Betty's Grocery, I see two bikes outside, and like a kid at the grocery store I start Scavenge hunting the store going Row by row till I find Stephen Huddle and Criket Butler over joyed with happiness that I had found some other racers. Hug's and hand shakes were given and I proceeded to eat my butt off and restock on meds and supplies.
At some point while in the store, my scalp started itching, and I started noticing Hives on my neck and my arms. That venom from the Bee must of exceeded the strength that my body was used too and I had to take even more benadryl.
After quite some Bewilderment on my part, I pack up and we all leave town together. There pace was quick and I was not able to keep there wheel, and before I knew it the Endless Tour De Georgia Road stage began, complete with ridiculous steep road ascents and descents and endless climbs for miles of miles.
Twice I had to stop on the side of the road, feeling so sleepy and tired, at the time thinking that it was the effect of the Benadryl.
Twice I rested, till I would relax a little too much and think I would hear the sound of a shifting bike and demand a rise from my flesh to get back to the task of going Forward. Forward to chase Cricket and Stephen.
My goal was clear I wanted to Make Mulberry Gap. Eventually, I started to feel better, and I the blood started flowing. I knew if I wanted to make the Gap tonight I had to light the matches so I started playing the music.
And my pace was strong and good, and before I knew it, Darkness had come and I as I made my way up a graded Fire road that reminded me much of the Forest Roads back home, I saw a campfire at the top of a climb and heard the cheering of fellow cyclist.
Apparently at my Helen Pit Stop, Ruth and Jeff had passed me and there they all were including Cricket and Stephen. They had made camp, and had made a beautiful fire and they were hoping I would join them.
But, as perfect as it was. I was not tired, and the last thing I wanted to do was lay in bed awake hoping to fall asleep. As beautiful and poetic as their fire and warmth and company would have been, I needed to pedal on.
And I was glad I did, as it was downhill for miles and miles and the stars were so beautiful that I had to stop and stare and marvel and tell the whole world about what I was seeing.
Some where along that part of the course a Huge rock kicked up and hit my Big Ring. I kept pedaling hearing a weird sound as the big ring was now rubbing the middle ring.
I stop and look to find that 4 teeth had been completely sheared off and two were bent. So I found a rock of appropriate size and I bash the rings that were bent straight and file down the others. I need and use the big ring often, so I had to make some sort of repair.
Eventually, as I am climbing up another fire road I get lost for a minute to discover that I had to navigate to a parking lot and jump on some more single track! WooHOOO, I was so excited, and the track was sweet. After riding hard, and railing the turns and enjoying some downhills, I crossed a creek and decided that at 130am it was a good time to stop and rest for the night.
I set up my hammock, got changed, and started feeling the itch from the Hives returning, took more Benadryl, and drifted off to sleep. The temperature was perfect and my dreams were filled with more singletrack riding.
Part 3 Tomorrow.
Take Care,
Laters,
The NaKeD InDiaN
That morning was cold.
No other way to say it. I got up, put my fresh pair of bibs on, my thick wool socks, my long Hoss shorts, my arm warmers, showers pass jacket and wool based layer.
I figure I wanted to be comfortable in the cold till my core warmed up.
I jump out the back of the trailer start packing things up and tying things to my rear pack when I discover that my front tire was low on air.
No worry I think, I will pump it, spin it and it should seal fine. Well, not the case at all as when I look for my mini pump, it was gone. Must of shook off on that crazy gravel rocky road I rode the night before.
I cant really describe the sense of frustration that I felt at that moment, mixed with a sense of panic. I knew I still had 20 plus miles to Helen for a chance of repair. I didn't remember the rules well enough to know if I could of accepted assistance from a fellow competitor, and I didn't have anyway to repair it.
I call MTB CAST to give them the update.
And then I start walking.
I decide to stick my thumb out, but not a single person wanted to respond or help.
I only had my emergency calories left, so I was chowing down on Almonds and cranberries as I walked and stuck out my thumb in hopes for a ride to Helen, then a return to where I left the course to continue with the race.
SO, I walked up the road, and down the road and up and down, then I reach an intersection. The road side points to the right and says "Brasstown Bald" which I recognize from the Tour De Georgia cycling race. I see a road sign after that says, "12 miles to Helen". I was devastated. I was going to pull the plug, there was no way in hell that I was going to walk 12 miles.
Just as despair and defeat were settling in, 2 cyclist pull up asking if I needed anything and I said, "Yes, do you have a mini pump". Dave did, and sold it to me after my generous offer of $20. I would of needed this pump the rest of the race, so the investment was worthy to me. I tried to seat the bead and get the Stan's to work, but it seemed to have either evaporated or leaked out. So, I took out the rim strip and pumped up the tube and hauled ass out of there back the way I came to return to the route.
I updated MTB CAST.
As I climbed up the dirt road, I had little water left and down to my emergency calories. As I am pedaling the endless but beautiful uphill Gravel road, a blue truck pulls along my side and ask if I was "Karlos".
"I said yes" and "they ask me why I had gone off course". At that point I knew they had been watching the race.
He offered me a coke and I accepted the coke and the brownie and the Gatorade and I got rolling again. He continued up the road to see if he could see any other racers, a virtual rolling Trail Angel, how awesome!
I don't know how many Racer's had passed me during the time consuming detour that I was forced to take, but since he continued up the road I assumed there were some I could catch and the race was on and my pace was combative as I ascended Tray Mountain.
At the top, I turn and see the helmet of Ruth Cunningham, riding along with her was Jeff Papenfus and after quickly catching up, I pass by and start riding some kick ass buff singletrack, my first real taste of the trip.
I had so much fun going down that mountain, and riding that crazy rocky gravel road that reminisced me of a triple wide version of Farlow Gap, I was in Mountain Bike heaven once again, just enjoying the fact that I was out riding and enjoying some beautiful Georgia trail.
As I popped out on the Road I let out a Huge Yell as I am over the top happy that I am finally back on pavement after completing another Dirty section of the TNGA. I tuck into the Freddies and Haul ass to Helen, passing 30 cars along the way.
Briefly as I passed the Woody's bike shop sign I considered going into see if I could re Stan's my wheel, but didn't think I would have another flat during the ride so I hammered on for food, refreshments, medicine and restock at Helen.
When I pulled up to Betty's Grocery, I see two bikes outside, and like a kid at the grocery store I start Scavenge hunting the store going Row by row till I find Stephen Huddle and Criket Butler over joyed with happiness that I had found some other racers. Hug's and hand shakes were given and I proceeded to eat my butt off and restock on meds and supplies.
At some point while in the store, my scalp started itching, and I started noticing Hives on my neck and my arms. That venom from the Bee must of exceeded the strength that my body was used too and I had to take even more benadryl.
After quite some Bewilderment on my part, I pack up and we all leave town together. There pace was quick and I was not able to keep there wheel, and before I knew it the Endless Tour De Georgia Road stage began, complete with ridiculous steep road ascents and descents and endless climbs for miles of miles.
Twice I had to stop on the side of the road, feeling so sleepy and tired, at the time thinking that it was the effect of the Benadryl.
Twice I rested, till I would relax a little too much and think I would hear the sound of a shifting bike and demand a rise from my flesh to get back to the task of going Forward. Forward to chase Cricket and Stephen.
My goal was clear I wanted to Make Mulberry Gap. Eventually, I started to feel better, and I the blood started flowing. I knew if I wanted to make the Gap tonight I had to light the matches so I started playing the music.
And my pace was strong and good, and before I knew it, Darkness had come and I as I made my way up a graded Fire road that reminded me much of the Forest Roads back home, I saw a campfire at the top of a climb and heard the cheering of fellow cyclist.
Apparently at my Helen Pit Stop, Ruth and Jeff had passed me and there they all were including Cricket and Stephen. They had made camp, and had made a beautiful fire and they were hoping I would join them.
But, as perfect as it was. I was not tired, and the last thing I wanted to do was lay in bed awake hoping to fall asleep. As beautiful and poetic as their fire and warmth and company would have been, I needed to pedal on.
And I was glad I did, as it was downhill for miles and miles and the stars were so beautiful that I had to stop and stare and marvel and tell the whole world about what I was seeing.
Some where along that part of the course a Huge rock kicked up and hit my Big Ring. I kept pedaling hearing a weird sound as the big ring was now rubbing the middle ring.
I stop and look to find that 4 teeth had been completely sheared off and two were bent. So I found a rock of appropriate size and I bash the rings that were bent straight and file down the others. I need and use the big ring often, so I had to make some sort of repair.
Eventually, as I am climbing up another fire road I get lost for a minute to discover that I had to navigate to a parking lot and jump on some more single track! WooHOOO, I was so excited, and the track was sweet. After riding hard, and railing the turns and enjoying some downhills, I crossed a creek and decided that at 130am it was a good time to stop and rest for the night.
I set up my hammock, got changed, and started feeling the itch from the Hives returning, took more Benadryl, and drifted off to sleep. The temperature was perfect and my dreams were filled with more singletrack riding.
Part 3 Tomorrow.
Take Care,
Laters,
The NaKeD InDiaN
Friday, September 10, 2010
TnGa StaGe One, The GrAvEL GrInD to MiLL CReeK RoaD
This had to have been the coldest September morning I had awoke too in a long time. My alarm had gone off at 3am, and the snooze button had been my friend. It was time to get my finely tuned kit put together for the adventure that was about to begin.
Out the corner of my eye I see a bouncing LED light, typical of what you would see on a helmet, and as the Light approached I recognized it to be no other than my good friend Rob Roberts.
I immediately noticed Rob was fully dressed and ready to go.
Panicked I said "what time is it"??
"4am".
**Note to reader, were supposed to leave at 430am**
I immediately go into panic mode.
I pack up my gear quick as I can, throw all my stuff in a bag, grab my other gear, run up the mountain, do what I must in the bathroom and get there in time to eat,
before we loaded up and ROLLED OUT.In the back of the Limo I could hear the chatter of the riders as they discussed various subjects.
To my left, driving the stretch Limo and listening to Kick ass tunes was my New Best Friend Rick MOON.
The chaotic morning had finally calmed for me. Whilst feeling relaxed, I still felt anxious about what was yet to come.
At the start, I immediately started strapping the bags and getting all my final last bits together. I had received a bunch of food from Mulberry and I didn't want to throw it away. So at the last minute I strapped it onto my bike in a HoboTic fashion.
Looked not so good, but it was food that I may need.
David said some quick words regarding the route and the event, and then we were off.
You would of thought that it was a 35 mile race instead of a 350 mile race, as Stephen Huddle was off the front tucked into his Aero bars in a move that reminisced something out of the Tour de France.
Seemingly the group ignored the attack. I looked around as everyone just kind of stayed bunch up as we started to go through some North Georgia Rollers.
Then on a downhill I decide to gun it, Open up the legs, and at the same time, test my set up to see if I could chase down Stephen.
Immediately I am gone, Rob follows, tells me not to get caught up in the pace..
And after we all pass Stephen, cause he stopped for a moment, we hit Gravel and the race really picks up.
Immediately there is a split in the Front as Matt Lee, Eddie Odea, Rob Roberts and a few others start pulling away.
A split had already formed in our tight little group and off the back but catching up was Mark Donagehy.
Matt Fusco, Brad Kee and myself were in the chase group.
We hit some Rollers and flow sections of double track that I was really able to just get ahead of my little group.
But once we hit a climb they would slowly creep past me and we would rinse and repeat.
I have no idea how much time had passed but this craziness and chaotic feeling was persistent.
Eventually, I saw Cricket creep up and she past by as Matt and Brad all left me on a longish Gravel Climb.
As I crested the climb, from an even steeper Road above me, descend Brad, Matt and Cricket, after apparently taking in some extra elevation meters.
Cricket stopped to wait for a friend and we continued on.
The rhythm of the race at this time persisted in that same little dance, of downhill small gap, uphill small gap, till after a turn on a climb, they all disappeared, Matt, Brad and Mark were gone. I picked up the pace, then climbed to a road going left, thinking I was following the Green line on my Etrex Well, only to end up at the threat of a Jack Russell two pronged Terrier attack at the front of someones yard.
My first Navigational error had occurred and it cost me the spot I had worked pretty hard to get in the chase group next to Matt and Brad.
No matter, I was really liking the section I was on. Overgrown double track climbing, I stopped to take a mental break, and tighten up my Hobo gear that had been starting to Lop to the right.
I kept going, seeing Brad Kee's Boot Tracks in the Dirt. Hoping If I did enough Modest work, maybe I could see some of them again. At least See Mark.
I eventually cleared the first Forest Section, feeling proud and defiant. Feeling like I was not only riding in this thing, but I was racing it as well, which was kind of the point. This whole thing is kind of like the Dare of Dares, the Feats of Feats. Pack your shit, go out and ride the ultimate Dirty Enduro and let's see in what order we get to the finish line. I love how Wild this type of event is. I love how Poetic the spirit of the event is. We go out and do it for the ride of it all and nothing more.
On the road, my Freddies were my friend as I tucked deep and kept going, searching for the way point that told me where there was a store.
Interesting, no way points could be found, and I realized that after spending Hours looking on Google Earth, making way points on the route to help me with reloads and mileage goals, I had forgotten to hit the load way points button when I loaded the route on my GPS. Costly mistake, but it was too late to make tears over.
I take on some liquid calories, and load up on snacks and roll out.
I learned something critical. During my work day on the bike, snacking is the only thing I should do and save the big meal for before bed. Now I didn't learn this day one, but I did this day one without even knowing it.
Onward I rolled. I thought I had about 30 or so miles to Helen, and I ended up being wrong. It was more like 60, but at the time I was rolling on an "I got 30 miles left for the day pace."
Up I went, down I went, this went on for hours.
Big Rocks little rocks all over the roads.
Too big to climb steady, too big to corner hard.
These Little Rocks made every type of riding a chore.
After climbing my umpteenth mountain, I stopped and eyeballed a sweet little pocket of warm sunshine that was shining on the clay, perfect size for my frame to rest in.
I laid there resting, and easily drifted into dreams, waking 30 minutes later, feeling like a new man.
I pulled a snickers out the frame bag and ate, tasting the chocolate and enjoying the flavor. As I sat up in a Yoga like pose to stretch my back and arms, I felt the familar Sting on my left Calf muscle, but wanted to dismiss it as a rock or a poke from a stinging Nettle Leaf.
I instinctively smacked only to find in my Sweaty palm, a dead Bee.
I have Not been stung my a Bee in 15 years or more and this past 8 weeks I have been stung 3 times. The first time was at work and the effects sent me panicked to the emergency room thinking for sure that I needed medical assistance to stop the Histamine reaction that was racking my body. But alas, that day when I left the hospital, the doctor told me, if this happens again, "just take some benadryl."
AND it did happen again, at work, and I DID what he said, and It DID Work.
But At this point I could not believe this was happening during the biggest challenge of my life.
WTF, for real?
Any how, I took the benadryl and got rolling. After a good little downhill I was pushing uphill when my heart started pounding in my chest making the veins in my skull pulsate.
Then the itching began, all over my back and buttocks on my arms neck and scalp.
I continued pushing, till this histamine reaction got the best of me and I forced myself to sit like a huge pile of allergic bee poison on the trail, thinking one thing and one thing only:
This is gonna cost me some time, will someone finally catch me now. I would love to see another face, someone to talk too and tell them how awful I was feeling at the moment.
But through the ordeal, no one came.
I forced myself to stand. Forced myself to push the bike uphill attempting to ignore the itch, but sometimes I would just give in.
AND I got back on the bike and kept the pedals turning, grinding the gravel away, while my body complained of Bee venom.
And eventually, as the night got dark and cold, I put more clothes on, and continued my forward movement. The torrential physical downpour that my body was experiencing subsided and dried up. The Deluge of itch was gone.
And I felt fine. Had to put on the lights. Had to put on my wool shirt. Had to keep going forward.
I got on some pavement, and I was looking around at the houses, trying to figure out how I had not reached Helen Yet. My math was apparently off.
I spotted a trailer home that looked dilapidated and kept going on my way. Got to an intersection, asked my GPS how far Helen was, and after riding all day long, since 8 something A.M., it was 1030 at night and I still had 25 plus miles to go. I was not ready.
I went back to check out the trailer since I knew that this evening would be the coldest of the three evenings I didn't want to hang in my hammock and not be able to sleep.
The back had an opening in what would of been the Trailer homes hallway, and I parked the bike, climbed in and jumped in my sleeping bag wearing all my clothes. I knew this would dry me by the morning.
Although my body slept, one lEar was always alert. I could hear the Nails from the Mice running underneath where I slept. Sometimes I would have to roll from one side to the other, but I slept good.
Part 2 tomorrow.
Take care,
Laters,
The NaKeD InDiaN
Friday, September 03, 2010
TNGA
So I am here. Sitting in the Recreation Room at Mulberry Gap, basically relaxing and killing time before dinner.
Its been one hell of a journey to get to this point. Even at the very last minute my bike was without brake pads on the rear and I was pinned at work unable to retrieve it once the repair was done.
Thank fully, due to the kindness of Edita and her Daughter Sarina, I was able to have my bike, and get everything I needed.
I rolled out of my house to drop off Lil'r NI only to realize that I had to return back home cause I forgot my Net that attaches to my rear pack.
I Zombie drove to Rob's house and before long, he awoke from his nap and we rode out. I slept on and off the whole way here. We hit a couple of stores and its been a marvelous day so far. I feel very relaxed without a doubt.
There is away for you to follow the events of the race. I am not guaranteeing blog updates but they may happen.
BUT, I have a SPOT tracker at http://trackleaders.com/tnga that will allow you to see my progress on the course. I will also make my MTB Cast Debut, through call ins at http://mtbcast.com/site2/. This is gonna be the biggest challenge I have ever faced, but I am composed and ready for what the ride will bring.
Take care,
Laters,
The NaKeD InDiaN
Its been one hell of a journey to get to this point. Even at the very last minute my bike was without brake pads on the rear and I was pinned at work unable to retrieve it once the repair was done.
Thank fully, due to the kindness of Edita and her Daughter Sarina, I was able to have my bike, and get everything I needed.
I rolled out of my house to drop off Lil'r NI only to realize that I had to return back home cause I forgot my Net that attaches to my rear pack.
I Zombie drove to Rob's house and before long, he awoke from his nap and we rode out. I slept on and off the whole way here. We hit a couple of stores and its been a marvelous day so far. I feel very relaxed without a doubt.
There is away for you to follow the events of the race. I am not guaranteeing blog updates but they may happen.
BUT, I have a SPOT tracker at http://trackleaders.com/tnga that will allow you to see my progress on the course. I will also make my MTB Cast Debut, through call ins at http://mtbcast.com/site2/. This is gonna be the biggest challenge I have ever faced, but I am composed and ready for what the ride will bring.
Take care,
Laters,
The NaKeD InDiaN
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
you Tell Me
So in a couple of days I feel like I am finally ready, as ready as I will be to step up and do something I have spent countless hours preparing to do.
When I reflect, I see how much time, money and effort I have put into this Bikepacking/self supported racing thing, and now its time to make it happen.
I do not have the luxuries that some of you do. I cannot simply pick up and go. I have Children to consider, and I really had to go into full planner mode to make it so my 10 year old could be taken care of and get to school and back while I am gone for a week maybe more. I am after all a single dad...
Admittedly, emotionally, once again I have been given what seemed an insurmountable challenge. The changes at work, affected me physically and deeply brought back some deep harbored feelings of rejection that I thought I had shook.
It felt as if a fatal wound had been re opened and for a moment there I thought for sure, I was lost. Finally ready to run away to some Mountain Town and claim my life as an Perpetual Earth walker.
You name it, in the past 1 and a half months it has happened to me. Job loss, emotional pain, car stolen, mortgage issues, etc, etc...
One right after the other, often on top of each other, creating a perfect storm of disastrous life changing events. I wont even go into the details.
All the while, I was at work, crawling under trailers, in hot attics, up and down ladders, etc, etc, 12 hour days almost every single work day.
But, I persevered.
Like a warrior should.
I remember about a year ago someone teased my warrior ethos, but they just don't get it. That is my philosophy on life. I believe if I still existed in a tribe of my people I would be on a pony defending my clan.
I have no wars to fight, so I go out and create feats for myself.
I literally have spent the past 4 days sharpening my sword.
My sword being my bike.
I have spent the past four days, picking out my battle regalia. Going through every piece with a fine tooth combed, making easy decisions.
I call them easy because the job is simple. I will eat, I will ride, and I will sleep. That's it. That right there helped me prioritize the amount of gear that I REALLY NEED for a 4 day adventure. I am on a mission.
My goal is simple. I don't even have a mileage goal any longer. I want to ride, all day, till a little past dark, then get up at daylight and do it again. That's it. However far I go is however far I go, I will stop and smell the roses and I will not ignore any naps under trees. That is of course till I reach Dalton...What happens at Dalton? Well, you will just have to see.
While I ride from one side of the Great State of Georgia to the other, I am on a battle to conquer my own mental weakness. I can pedal that far. I can pedal that long. I got the strength in my body, and the ability. BUT, mentally I am a P****Y.
I am being hard on myself, but that is the truth. That is where the true war will be, in my HEAD. Every time I have given up, its been because of it and its horrible advice.
So, its time. It's time to make all my hard work and testing pay off.
See you other brave souls on the start line.
Have your stuff together. Its going to be a blast. I will find a way to enjoy every single lesson that the creator will teach me on this journey.
Even though I pedal through them mountains alone, I have not made it to the line alone.
There are so many people who have helped me along the way. When I reflect I have some beautiful spirits in my life and I dedicate this ride to all who have helped me reach the level I am at, I could not have done it alone.
I hope through my self imposed challenges and adventures that I share That I have brought some inspiration to some of you. That through me you see hope and you see in all my crazy feats a glimmer that with desire and drive you can do so much.
Its been one hell of a journey folks and its far from over.
Stick around will ya,
take care,
Laters,
The NaKeD InDiaN
When I reflect, I see how much time, money and effort I have put into this Bikepacking/self supported racing thing, and now its time to make it happen.
I do not have the luxuries that some of you do. I cannot simply pick up and go. I have Children to consider, and I really had to go into full planner mode to make it so my 10 year old could be taken care of and get to school and back while I am gone for a week maybe more. I am after all a single dad...
Admittedly, emotionally, once again I have been given what seemed an insurmountable challenge. The changes at work, affected me physically and deeply brought back some deep harbored feelings of rejection that I thought I had shook.
It felt as if a fatal wound had been re opened and for a moment there I thought for sure, I was lost. Finally ready to run away to some Mountain Town and claim my life as an Perpetual Earth walker.
You name it, in the past 1 and a half months it has happened to me. Job loss, emotional pain, car stolen, mortgage issues, etc, etc...
One right after the other, often on top of each other, creating a perfect storm of disastrous life changing events. I wont even go into the details.
All the while, I was at work, crawling under trailers, in hot attics, up and down ladders, etc, etc, 12 hour days almost every single work day.
But, I persevered.
Like a warrior should.
I remember about a year ago someone teased my warrior ethos, but they just don't get it. That is my philosophy on life. I believe if I still existed in a tribe of my people I would be on a pony defending my clan.
I have no wars to fight, so I go out and create feats for myself.
I literally have spent the past 4 days sharpening my sword.
My sword being my bike.
I have spent the past four days, picking out my battle regalia. Going through every piece with a fine tooth combed, making easy decisions.
I call them easy because the job is simple. I will eat, I will ride, and I will sleep. That's it. That right there helped me prioritize the amount of gear that I REALLY NEED for a 4 day adventure. I am on a mission.
My goal is simple. I don't even have a mileage goal any longer. I want to ride, all day, till a little past dark, then get up at daylight and do it again. That's it. However far I go is however far I go, I will stop and smell the roses and I will not ignore any naps under trees. That is of course till I reach Dalton...What happens at Dalton? Well, you will just have to see.
While I ride from one side of the Great State of Georgia to the other, I am on a battle to conquer my own mental weakness. I can pedal that far. I can pedal that long. I got the strength in my body, and the ability. BUT, mentally I am a P****Y.
I am being hard on myself, but that is the truth. That is where the true war will be, in my HEAD. Every time I have given up, its been because of it and its horrible advice.
So, its time. It's time to make all my hard work and testing pay off.
See you other brave souls on the start line.
Have your stuff together. Its going to be a blast. I will find a way to enjoy every single lesson that the creator will teach me on this journey.
Even though I pedal through them mountains alone, I have not made it to the line alone.
There are so many people who have helped me along the way. When I reflect I have some beautiful spirits in my life and I dedicate this ride to all who have helped me reach the level I am at, I could not have done it alone.
I hope through my self imposed challenges and adventures that I share That I have brought some inspiration to some of you. That through me you see hope and you see in all my crazy feats a glimmer that with desire and drive you can do so much.
Its been one hell of a journey folks and its far from over.
Stick around will ya,
take care,
Laters,
The NaKeD InDiaN
Saturday, August 21, 2010
MOsT AGgReSSiVe
About a week ago Rob and I got up.
I am not the one to build much. I can build a bike, if I have a mechanic, a real mechanic right there to guide me.
Since about sometime over a year ago, I heard about a 2 piece crankset with a 29 tooth inner ring and how this was the cat's meow for a 29er.
Finally, a year or more later, I got some Origin 8 rings, 44 - 29, with a 12 - 36 9 speed cassette and went over to Rob's to put it all together.
Truth be told, I sat there and ran my mouth, while Rob put it all together and figured it all out.
The 44 sits where the 32 ring would and the 29 sits where the granny gear would allowing me to run my biggest and lowest combos' with no penalty.
The result is a gear combo ratio only 3 inches off the gear inches of a triple crankset.
Not bad.
I needed to test it.
EVen for me, its hot as hell out, but Rob was in to ride and so was I. I wanted to do my normal Clermont loop backwards, then ride into Astatula into the Apopka preserve, hoping to hit the wolf head hike a bike and get some aggressive bike pushing in.
My miles are way down from what they were. And my TNGA training is pretty much out the window. But I went out and did some intervals, worked on leg speed, did big gear drills, basically attempting to feast on all my training drills in one day.
God works in mysterious ways. And although installing is grueling work, it is definitely got me Lean and its definitely got my heat tolerances and suffering ability up.
If Rob and I were a two man peloton, I would easily be voted the most aggressive. As soon as we hit grassy lakes, I started launching the attacks on Rob, my goal was to make it to the tops of as many climbs as possible before Rob.
In no imaginary world do I claim to be faster than Rob, but I was riding aggressive and strong and putting the pressure on.
Eventually somewhere towards the last peak on Buckhill I pOppED, but still kept rolling regardless at my own pace, eventually catching up to Rob and launching attacks again.
I gasped at Rob that I was trying to stay away.
He offered some advice, "Don't attack on the Downhills",
I told him I thought it about it long and hard and figured that was my best bet.
It didn't work, but I still kept riding strong.
We eventually got into Astatula and I noticed my water levels were low.
Still pushing the pace, we hit Wolf Head Road, and amazingly enough my leg speed drills paid off as a quick spin cadence kept me floating on the sand and we cleared the section without having to walk.
I got water and a soak at the fire station and we continued. I knew we only had about 7 miles left so I really picked up the pace and made it a point to stay in front through Grassy Lakes and eventually we made the end, both of us hot as hell, thirsty and hungry. It was way too hot to be riding out there.
I am hoping to at the TNGA that Rob and I can ride together. Although my training has fallen off, I am still riding amazingly well and still have hopes of making these last two weeks pay off, pedaling and riding as much as possible. After crawling climbing and working all day, I admit its hard to motivate myself to get on the bike, but I am going to push myself.
I really don't know what will happen in TNGA, but my mental is resolve. I am determined to finish. I am leaving the ego at home. My goal day one will be to acclimate and finish the miles that I want to finish. Not go hard, not blow up, feed on a regular basis and keep myself healthy and patient. No secret here folks, I am speed touring the route, I hardly consider myself a racer of it.
But, I am experienced in this type of event. I do have a slight advantage over the competition and I have a feeling that If I stay healthy and I stick to my ever flexible plans, I should finish well, I will call a prediction now and say that Rob and I will finish in the Top five, maybe even the Top Three, but I don't expect to finish before Rob, but would love to finish right next to him or right behind him.
I am ready, to go out and do, once again, the hardest thing I have ever done on a bike.
I hope I never ever am able to stop saying that.
Take Care,
Laters,
The NaKeD InDiaN
I am not the one to build much. I can build a bike, if I have a mechanic, a real mechanic right there to guide me.
Since about sometime over a year ago, I heard about a 2 piece crankset with a 29 tooth inner ring and how this was the cat's meow for a 29er.
Finally, a year or more later, I got some Origin 8 rings, 44 - 29, with a 12 - 36 9 speed cassette and went over to Rob's to put it all together.
Truth be told, I sat there and ran my mouth, while Rob put it all together and figured it all out.
The 44 sits where the 32 ring would and the 29 sits where the granny gear would allowing me to run my biggest and lowest combos' with no penalty.
The result is a gear combo ratio only 3 inches off the gear inches of a triple crankset.
Not bad.
I needed to test it.
EVen for me, its hot as hell out, but Rob was in to ride and so was I. I wanted to do my normal Clermont loop backwards, then ride into Astatula into the Apopka preserve, hoping to hit the wolf head hike a bike and get some aggressive bike pushing in.
My miles are way down from what they were. And my TNGA training is pretty much out the window. But I went out and did some intervals, worked on leg speed, did big gear drills, basically attempting to feast on all my training drills in one day.
God works in mysterious ways. And although installing is grueling work, it is definitely got me Lean and its definitely got my heat tolerances and suffering ability up.
If Rob and I were a two man peloton, I would easily be voted the most aggressive. As soon as we hit grassy lakes, I started launching the attacks on Rob, my goal was to make it to the tops of as many climbs as possible before Rob.
In no imaginary world do I claim to be faster than Rob, but I was riding aggressive and strong and putting the pressure on.
Eventually somewhere towards the last peak on Buckhill I pOppED, but still kept rolling regardless at my own pace, eventually catching up to Rob and launching attacks again.
I gasped at Rob that I was trying to stay away.
He offered some advice, "Don't attack on the Downhills",
I told him I thought it about it long and hard and figured that was my best bet.
It didn't work, but I still kept riding strong.
We eventually got into Astatula and I noticed my water levels were low.
Still pushing the pace, we hit Wolf Head Road, and amazingly enough my leg speed drills paid off as a quick spin cadence kept me floating on the sand and we cleared the section without having to walk.
I got water and a soak at the fire station and we continued. I knew we only had about 7 miles left so I really picked up the pace and made it a point to stay in front through Grassy Lakes and eventually we made the end, both of us hot as hell, thirsty and hungry. It was way too hot to be riding out there.
I am hoping to at the TNGA that Rob and I can ride together. Although my training has fallen off, I am still riding amazingly well and still have hopes of making these last two weeks pay off, pedaling and riding as much as possible. After crawling climbing and working all day, I admit its hard to motivate myself to get on the bike, but I am going to push myself.
I really don't know what will happen in TNGA, but my mental is resolve. I am determined to finish. I am leaving the ego at home. My goal day one will be to acclimate and finish the miles that I want to finish. Not go hard, not blow up, feed on a regular basis and keep myself healthy and patient. No secret here folks, I am speed touring the route, I hardly consider myself a racer of it.
But, I am experienced in this type of event. I do have a slight advantage over the competition and I have a feeling that If I stay healthy and I stick to my ever flexible plans, I should finish well, I will call a prediction now and say that Rob and I will finish in the Top five, maybe even the Top Three, but I don't expect to finish before Rob, but would love to finish right next to him or right behind him.
I am ready, to go out and do, once again, the hardest thing I have ever done on a bike.
I hope I never ever am able to stop saying that.
Take Care,
Laters,
The NaKeD InDiaN
Monday, August 16, 2010
ThRu DyInG
So, the other day Rob and I were having a conversation about self supported racing.
I was telling him how many more variables go into Self Supported racing vs. the normal type of racing most people are used to That I expect those who have never done it to Fail.
Of course I am going to say that. Do you have even the slightest Idea how many trips I have gone on and crumbled and failed. How many times I have gone out and turned myself inside out to the point where I completely cracked.
TOO MANY TO COUNT.
But through all those failures, all those critical moments, all those bad experiences I have learned how to succeed. Through my disappointments I have learned to overcome.
So I don't have a lot of faith in new people stepping into the game. My attitude is to expect them to fail. The learning curve is steep, the climb is long, and until you have done it, its a whole nother world that your stepping into.
The TNGA is right around the corner and it will be the biggest challenge that I will ever face.
Physically I am ready. I feel strong. Surprisingly all this installation work has increased my tolerances for the horrible temps that are out there.
My kit is ready and the bike is ready. I reconfigured my 2 x 9 set up and its optimum for climbing. I am literally missing only 3 inches of gear ratio from someone running a 22 x 34.
I dont know who the other racers for the race will be, but I venture there are not many champions stepping up to the line, and after all I am the Cross Florida Fixed Gear Champion.
So, physically I am ready, the bike is ready, the kit is ready and I have done enough self supported ride to feel that I am experienced enough.
The only thing left, the only thing I have to make sure of, is that my head game stays on the end game. And the end game is crossing that Alabama border. My end game is to stick to my goals, yet stay flexible enough to alter it. And most of all, to have no quit in my heart.
After all, through all my failures, I feel I have finally found the key to succeeding in the self supported racing game.
Take Care,
Laters,
The NaKeD InDiaN
I was telling him how many more variables go into Self Supported racing vs. the normal type of racing most people are used to That I expect those who have never done it to Fail.
Of course I am going to say that. Do you have even the slightest Idea how many trips I have gone on and crumbled and failed. How many times I have gone out and turned myself inside out to the point where I completely cracked.
TOO MANY TO COUNT.
But through all those failures, all those critical moments, all those bad experiences I have learned how to succeed. Through my disappointments I have learned to overcome.
So I don't have a lot of faith in new people stepping into the game. My attitude is to expect them to fail. The learning curve is steep, the climb is long, and until you have done it, its a whole nother world that your stepping into.
The TNGA is right around the corner and it will be the biggest challenge that I will ever face.
Physically I am ready. I feel strong. Surprisingly all this installation work has increased my tolerances for the horrible temps that are out there.
My kit is ready and the bike is ready. I reconfigured my 2 x 9 set up and its optimum for climbing. I am literally missing only 3 inches of gear ratio from someone running a 22 x 34.
I dont know who the other racers for the race will be, but I venture there are not many champions stepping up to the line, and after all I am the Cross Florida Fixed Gear Champion.
So, physically I am ready, the bike is ready, the kit is ready and I have done enough self supported ride to feel that I am experienced enough.
The only thing left, the only thing I have to make sure of, is that my head game stays on the end game. And the end game is crossing that Alabama border. My end game is to stick to my goals, yet stay flexible enough to alter it. And most of all, to have no quit in my heart.
After all, through all my failures, I feel I have finally found the key to succeeding in the self supported racing game.
Take Care,
Laters,
The NaKeD InDiaN
Thursday, August 12, 2010
The PaPaKai ToUr ParT 2
We waited, ate, and chatted while the storm soaked the earth. I looked at the Weather Map on my Droid and saw that we had a good clear line down the middle, in between the storms. I figured if we moved out now, and kept a high pace, we should be to get there without a soaking.
So, we mounted up and rolled out.
3 miles later as we approached Oviedo, Kailan said his rear tire was flat and at the stop light confirmed it.
I noticed that the storms that were on both side of us had closed in pretty quick and as the soaking started again, we made shelter under the carport of a church.
I went right into repairing the flat, concerned that I had got a flat to begin with, and how I was about to use my last tube.
The Storm Raged long after the repair. Not interested in getting a soak, we waited. I thought it was best.
While Kai played his DSI I cat napped on the rug. TOOK such a delicious rest, such a deep slumber in such a short time. 40 minutes later the storm stopped and we began the Cross Seminole bike trail.
3 more miles later, Kai's rear tire explodes.
DAMN!!!
I pull out my droid and do a gps location based search for a bicycle shop. I find there is one off trail about a mile, call and get directions and I tow him on the rim till we get there.
At the shop, I discovered that the rear tire popped cause the tread was separating. I bought two tubes and a new tire, mounted it all, the guy was nice enough to give me some patches and we were off.
I thought the adversity was over, but then the rain storm hit.
Regardless, I was pushing the pedals and actually keeping a faster pace then the day before. I had adjusted to the 120 lb extra pull and I was literally flying. Even with the soaking, I was still making great time. I gave Kai my sunglasses to protect his eyes from my poisonous rooster tail.
With 3 miles left disaster struck as we made a tight corner and Kai collided with a bike trail cement Island, landing on his chest and sliding on his face. Luckily He was not hurt, just a little bruised on his shoulder and we were off again.
We arrived into Lake Mary. Hit the Publix to get out of the wet clothes. I was proud of Kai's ingeniousness to dry his socks as he wrapped them in paper towels and pressed them.
We emerged dipped in our street clothes and pushed the bike to Papa Joe's to enjoy a meal.
We ran into some friends and we all went and watched "The Other Guy's". When we finished we were all sitting having coffee or coffee drinks, when Kai asked our friend for a ride home.
We had about 28 miles left and one more night of camping, but the last thing I wanted to do was FORCE Kai to do it. So since he requested it, we went home that night, arriving around 1130 pm.
It was a fun tour. I got to practice my speed mechanic skills. Got to practice my ingenuity and problem solving skills and got to spend time with my son. The good news is, he wants to go on another tour and like always, I am already cooking up a plan.
What a blessing it is to be able to tour by bike.
Take Care,
Laters,
The NaKeD InDiaN
So, we mounted up and rolled out.
3 miles later as we approached Oviedo, Kailan said his rear tire was flat and at the stop light confirmed it.
I noticed that the storms that were on both side of us had closed in pretty quick and as the soaking started again, we made shelter under the carport of a church.
I went right into repairing the flat, concerned that I had got a flat to begin with, and how I was about to use my last tube.
The Storm Raged long after the repair. Not interested in getting a soak, we waited. I thought it was best.
While Kai played his DSI I cat napped on the rug. TOOK such a delicious rest, such a deep slumber in such a short time. 40 minutes later the storm stopped and we began the Cross Seminole bike trail.
3 more miles later, Kai's rear tire explodes.
DAMN!!!
I pull out my droid and do a gps location based search for a bicycle shop. I find there is one off trail about a mile, call and get directions and I tow him on the rim till we get there.
At the shop, I discovered that the rear tire popped cause the tread was separating. I bought two tubes and a new tire, mounted it all, the guy was nice enough to give me some patches and we were off.
I thought the adversity was over, but then the rain storm hit.
Regardless, I was pushing the pedals and actually keeping a faster pace then the day before. I had adjusted to the 120 lb extra pull and I was literally flying. Even with the soaking, I was still making great time. I gave Kai my sunglasses to protect his eyes from my poisonous rooster tail.
With 3 miles left disaster struck as we made a tight corner and Kai collided with a bike trail cement Island, landing on his chest and sliding on his face. Luckily He was not hurt, just a little bruised on his shoulder and we were off again.
We arrived into Lake Mary. Hit the Publix to get out of the wet clothes. I was proud of Kai's ingeniousness to dry his socks as he wrapped them in paper towels and pressed them.
We emerged dipped in our street clothes and pushed the bike to Papa Joe's to enjoy a meal.
We ran into some friends and we all went and watched "The Other Guy's". When we finished we were all sitting having coffee or coffee drinks, when Kai asked our friend for a ride home.
We had about 28 miles left and one more night of camping, but the last thing I wanted to do was FORCE Kai to do it. So since he requested it, we went home that night, arriving around 1130 pm.
It was a fun tour. I got to practice my speed mechanic skills. Got to practice my ingenuity and problem solving skills and got to spend time with my son. The good news is, he wants to go on another tour and like always, I am already cooking up a plan.
What a blessing it is to be able to tour by bike.
Take Care,
Laters,
The NaKeD InDiaN
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
The PaPaKai TouR
I dreamt this up in March.
I was thinking of things I could do with my boys.
Unfortunately LiL NI was not available, but LIL'r NI was.
I got on the bikepacking forum and asked about tow ropes and over time the plan festered and developed little by little.
I had a route in mind, a route that would have some backwoods, but plenty of civilization and destinations to keep him goal oriented.
Eventually, the weekend was penciled in on the calendar and it was time to be off adventuring as Father and Son.
I wanted to bring a tow rope to spare him the pain of pedaling farther then he had ever pedaled all year, let alone his life, let alone on a bike that would be heavier then what he was used too.
PLUS, I knew we were going to have to ride some BUFF singletrack on the first morning to traverse the Econolokohatchee forest and I knew he would need his strength.
In theory I have enough bikepacking gear for three people to go bikepacking. And a starter kit is not expensive, nor hard, just takes a little imagination.
I loaded Kai's bike Light. Mine's was not even that much heavier.
I gave Kai my Mini Newt and I used the Stella and we rolled out Friday evening ready to adventure.
We both chose our riding outfits. My plan was one riding outfit each. We both had a set of Civilian attire and we both had toilettries, swimsuits, raincoats and towels.
I have a completely different philosophy then the average person. My TNGA set up wont be much different then this minus the street wear. I actually rode Chamoisless this ride as the experiments continue and I completed the tour without a single chaff or sore.
Not even 3 miles away from the house we had to turn and go back. By that point, Kailan had decided He would accept the tow rope and we were starting to groove till his Bottom Brackett seized up.
This of course was not his fault as I have NEVER put a bottom bracket in that bike since I purchased it in 2005.
I had a back up bike, and had to switch all the gear and the seat, etc. Many times this weekend I felt like the Domestique as I was the lead mechanic and the main PULL for the team.
The swap was done and before we knew it we had Cleared Section 1.
The section was only 8 miles long, but I broke it into sections so Kailan could better wrap his mind around the challenges that lay ahead. It worked. At stop one we got water, and then continued on to section 2 which was another6 miles or so. Each section included one big climb and although I was towing him, He was required to pedal to assist up the inclines. As it was, it was taking some pedal power to keep us both moving. Towing 120 lbs is not easy.
After section two we consumed liquid calories and finished off the final part of the trip including the 1/2 mile of off road riding we had to do to get up by the river camping spot.
After a bit of searching I found a good spot, but in the end it worked out better for Kai as my hammock set up didnt turn out to be so optimal. The night we spent in the woods was as restless as the first night I spent out there. The whole night the Forest was alive with movement and often it sounded like footsteps. The chances I did get to close my eye, I would awake startled. Kailan and I pretty much spent the night, restless, barely sleeping, waiting for the sun to rise.
At first light we were both up, ready to haul ass, frustrated over the weirdness of the forest.
I made Kai pack his clothes and show him how to roll up his handlebar bag, as I did all the hard work once again of loading up two hammocks and packing up my own gear. We got on the road and began the hard traverse of the white trail. The white trail in Econolokahatchee will kick anyone's ass, and not soon long into the trail I was wondering what in the heck I was thinking bringing Kai's very unpracticed ass down such a buff trail.
Eventually, after noticing and hearing how hard he was cracking I became more active in helping him. I would help him to remount, tell him to dismount and hike, and on we went for 1.5 miles till he was able to finally plop his ass down up against a tree and rest.
For a brief moment I thought we should pull the plugg and head down some doubletrack out of there, but the double track was worst than the singletrack with the lack of traction. So I told him he had to HTFU and we continued on to the swim spot. He actually was able to ride a lot more and the entire ride to the Swim spot we hiked less, even though we still hiked quite a bit.
At the swim hole we swam and recharged and then had another hard fought battle in the forest.
Kailan was close to an emotional breakdown, smoked, just completely taxed, when I pulled out the tow rope and started pulling his ass out the forest. At one point we lost the trail, and I followed the GPS arrow towards the closest road which was taking us down an ancient double track with tall willow like shrubbery that was gently ripping at our ankles. Even when we hiked I biked I was towing him, and before we knew it, we emerged on to that road.
I thought for sure Kai would collapse at that point. Google Maps Droid App indicated McDonald's was close and as soon as we hit the pavement Kailan demanded that we continued on, "let's go". At that moment I felt such a great sense of pride. Seeing him going from Resting his head on the bars, tears welling up his eyes, to conquering the very buff singletrack that had brought him almost to tears. Not only conquering but demanding that we Charge ahead to BRUNCH.
While we sat and ate at McDonald's, I let him in on the news that we only had covered 7 miles, we still had at least 20 more to go. Just as I said this the Sky opened up and a storm started raging. Kai didnt even flinch as he knew very well, that those 20 plus miles would be on the rope.
Part 2, tomorrow.
Take Care,
Laters,
The NaKeD InDiaN
I was thinking of things I could do with my boys.
Unfortunately LiL NI was not available, but LIL'r NI was.
I got on the bikepacking forum and asked about tow ropes and over time the plan festered and developed little by little.
I had a route in mind, a route that would have some backwoods, but plenty of civilization and destinations to keep him goal oriented.
Eventually, the weekend was penciled in on the calendar and it was time to be off adventuring as Father and Son.
I wanted to bring a tow rope to spare him the pain of pedaling farther then he had ever pedaled all year, let alone his life, let alone on a bike that would be heavier then what he was used too.
PLUS, I knew we were going to have to ride some BUFF singletrack on the first morning to traverse the Econolokohatchee forest and I knew he would need his strength.
In theory I have enough bikepacking gear for three people to go bikepacking. And a starter kit is not expensive, nor hard, just takes a little imagination.
I loaded Kai's bike Light. Mine's was not even that much heavier.
I gave Kai my Mini Newt and I used the Stella and we rolled out Friday evening ready to adventure.
We both chose our riding outfits. My plan was one riding outfit each. We both had a set of Civilian attire and we both had toilettries, swimsuits, raincoats and towels.
I have a completely different philosophy then the average person. My TNGA set up wont be much different then this minus the street wear. I actually rode Chamoisless this ride as the experiments continue and I completed the tour without a single chaff or sore.
Not even 3 miles away from the house we had to turn and go back. By that point, Kailan had decided He would accept the tow rope and we were starting to groove till his Bottom Brackett seized up.
This of course was not his fault as I have NEVER put a bottom bracket in that bike since I purchased it in 2005.
I had a back up bike, and had to switch all the gear and the seat, etc. Many times this weekend I felt like the Domestique as I was the lead mechanic and the main PULL for the team.
The swap was done and before we knew it we had Cleared Section 1.
The section was only 8 miles long, but I broke it into sections so Kailan could better wrap his mind around the challenges that lay ahead. It worked. At stop one we got water, and then continued on to section 2 which was another6 miles or so. Each section included one big climb and although I was towing him, He was required to pedal to assist up the inclines. As it was, it was taking some pedal power to keep us both moving. Towing 120 lbs is not easy.
After section two we consumed liquid calories and finished off the final part of the trip including the 1/2 mile of off road riding we had to do to get up by the river camping spot.
After a bit of searching I found a good spot, but in the end it worked out better for Kai as my hammock set up didnt turn out to be so optimal. The night we spent in the woods was as restless as the first night I spent out there. The whole night the Forest was alive with movement and often it sounded like footsteps. The chances I did get to close my eye, I would awake startled. Kailan and I pretty much spent the night, restless, barely sleeping, waiting for the sun to rise.
At first light we were both up, ready to haul ass, frustrated over the weirdness of the forest.
I made Kai pack his clothes and show him how to roll up his handlebar bag, as I did all the hard work once again of loading up two hammocks and packing up my own gear. We got on the road and began the hard traverse of the white trail. The white trail in Econolokahatchee will kick anyone's ass, and not soon long into the trail I was wondering what in the heck I was thinking bringing Kai's very unpracticed ass down such a buff trail.
Eventually, after noticing and hearing how hard he was cracking I became more active in helping him. I would help him to remount, tell him to dismount and hike, and on we went for 1.5 miles till he was able to finally plop his ass down up against a tree and rest.
For a brief moment I thought we should pull the plugg and head down some doubletrack out of there, but the double track was worst than the singletrack with the lack of traction. So I told him he had to HTFU and we continued on to the swim spot. He actually was able to ride a lot more and the entire ride to the Swim spot we hiked less, even though we still hiked quite a bit.
At the swim hole we swam and recharged and then had another hard fought battle in the forest.
Kailan was close to an emotional breakdown, smoked, just completely taxed, when I pulled out the tow rope and started pulling his ass out the forest. At one point we lost the trail, and I followed the GPS arrow towards the closest road which was taking us down an ancient double track with tall willow like shrubbery that was gently ripping at our ankles. Even when we hiked I biked I was towing him, and before we knew it, we emerged on to that road.
I thought for sure Kai would collapse at that point. Google Maps Droid App indicated McDonald's was close and as soon as we hit the pavement Kailan demanded that we continued on, "let's go". At that moment I felt such a great sense of pride. Seeing him going from Resting his head on the bars, tears welling up his eyes, to conquering the very buff singletrack that had brought him almost to tears. Not only conquering but demanding that we Charge ahead to BRUNCH.
While we sat and ate at McDonald's, I let him in on the news that we only had covered 7 miles, we still had at least 20 more to go. Just as I said this the Sky opened up and a storm started raging. Kai didnt even flinch as he knew very well, that those 20 plus miles would be on the rope.
Part 2, tomorrow.
Take Care,
Laters,
The NaKeD InDiaN
Saturday, August 07, 2010
At the swim hole.
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In a hammock down by the river!!!
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Friday, August 06, 2010
Wow what an evening so far. Lilr nakedindian s bottom brackett quit 3 miles into the ride. Were back on track about ten miles left for the eve.
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