tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72368290676762923842024-02-20T02:27:09.412+11:00Enduro XCCannondale-Sugoi Factory RacingAndrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09393949701801852456noreply@blogger.comBlogger183125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236829067676292384.post-30379045537423168862014-10-31T14:05:00.001+11:002014-10-31T14:05:17.785+11:00Crocodile Trophy<div class="p1">
<a href="http://www.crocodile-trophy.com/">Croc Trophy</a> - touted as one of the hardest stage races in the world, and into it’s 20th year I thought it time to give Croc a visit. </div>
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The basic outline of the event is an XC race, followed up with 7 XCM’s and then a TT to finish off … sounds reasonable.</div>
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This year Croc was categorised into the top level of UCI endorsed stage races, so with UCI points on offer a solid elite field, with multiple National XCM champs, was in attendance.</div>
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The field was strong through into the various amateur age divisions - with multiple ex-pros, and multiple grand tour riders.</div>
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We asked Max Lelli - a 30 grand tour vet whether Croc was harder then the Tour de France - his broken English response was that the Tour was for pussy (cats) in comparison. Good to know he was hurting too!</div>
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The race started with around 100 riders - of which 30 odd were Australian. About 85 riders would finish.</div>
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For me, I was racing in the A2 - Amateur 30-40 yr old category. You had to have a UCI license to race with the big-boys in the Elite category.</div>
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<b>Day 1 - XC in Smithfield</b></div>
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2nd in cat / 33km / 900 vert / 30C+</div>
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The first stage was an XC race around the Smithfield tracks - just outside of Cairns. </div>
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The trails here are pretty awesome - well made singletrack through tight trees, lots of roots and rocky gully crossings.</div>
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The start was a fast ride up a fire road. It was not quite long enough to sort everyone out, so it was quite a mess entering the first single track.</div>
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Lots of roadies had smashed the fire road but now bounced off every tree in the singletrack. I had to ask one guy if he had ever ridden a MTB before - he did not speak any English but hopefully he understood my sledge but the associated arm waving ...</div>
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After wading through the traffic and remembering why I don't race XC, I was about 4km from the finish and got lazy in a rocky gully crossing and punctured through the tread. I rode the rim to the finish - Enve's have no problems with this.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 1 - Smithfield</td></tr>
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<b>Day 2 - Carins to Lake Tinaroo</b></div>
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1st in cat / 97km / 2200 vert m / Best amateur jersey</div>
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The 2nd stage started with a nice neutral roll out from Cairns and up to the start of a mountain road.</div>
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Right from the gun, the pace was crazy heading up into the twisty mountains. I managed to grovel onto the lead group and did some massive numbers (for me) - over 375w for 20 min and 410 for 10 min! Meanwhile Ivan Rybarik at 87kg was driving it off the front - do the maths!</div>
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Once we passed the Dam wall we went into crazy steep vertical track. The little 34T chain ring was struggling big time. This turned into more steep loose rocky climbs until finally fully ascending the mountain range.</div>
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The descent off the backside of the mountain was again steep and super lose.</div>
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My patched up tire lost some air so I had to stop and gas it - thankfully it held and I was joined by Guido Thaler (Best Austrian / Elite from Imst). We drove it hard across the flats - obviously Imst does not have many flats - as Guido would kill me on each climb and he could not pull a turn on the flats!</div>
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The day finished with a long and solid climb and fast run down into Lake Tinaroo. </div>
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They said there was no crocs in this lake, but a bit of Googling indicated otherwise ...</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 2 - Lake Tinaroo</td></tr>
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<b>Day 3 - Lake Tinaroo to Atherton</b></div>
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1st in cat / 72km / 2200 vert m / Best amateur jersey</div>
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Day 3 was a lazy neutral 20km from Lake Tinaroo to Atherton MTB park.</div>
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This MTB park is relatively new and professionally built. </div>
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The first few km was tight, twisty and loose Australian single track. This lead into the first climb - switch backs, lots of rocks and minor obstacles. </div>
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Then it was into tight bermed chutes to quickly lose all the vert gained. Would be pretty cool on a 26” bike!</div>
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Into stairway to heaven climb - a never ending switch back climb - which by the top was an amazing view back over the ranges. You could almost feel that you would fall off the mountain.</div>
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Over the back with a little descent and a final climb through some semi-rainforest terrain. </div>
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The descent was fast, rocky and steep. The wrists were totally hammered by the bottom and legs spent. Repeat for 3 laps! </div>
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I was pretty glad for the RockTape on the wrists - my body was pretty smashed from 3 laps of this course.</div>
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Check out all those switchbacks on the map ... makes Stromlo look like a straight line.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 3 - Atherton MTB park</td></tr>
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<b>Day 4 - Atherton to Atherton</b></div>
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2nd in cat / 71km / 2400 vert m / Best amateur jersey</div>
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Waking up to day 4 I must say my legs were feeling pretty fried. I was pretty sore from the previous day of rough singletrack.</div>
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What better way to start the day then with a fricken big climb at full gas ...</div>
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By now my A2 competition was starting to show ... Tiago Silva from Portugal had got within a few minutes of me yesterday and today was ready to make back some time. </div>
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Heading up the climb I was with Ondrej Slezak and Tiago and it was all on.</div>
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We came across a wild bull who looked pretty pissed. Turns out that 30 secs before us, the bull had charged the lead group of riders - sending eventual race winner Greg Saw into a stinging tree!</div>
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I took the descent down to the first feed pretty easy, which was a mistake as there was a highway crossing shortly after - and I got separated from the group.</div>
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Racing back to get back on, we were heading up a steep sandy climb and I noticed that my crank had come lose and was just about to fall off. In the middle of no-where and no 10mm allen key I had to improvise from my finger and by sacrificing a bit of skin I was able to get it good enough to get me going again.</div>
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The next 15km was just an adventure of steep sandy descents and sandy turns. The euro's would later say it reminded them of riding in snow.</div>
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My bad day continued when I reached a road with race signage from a previous race. Like many others that day I took it. You can see the little loop on the map middle of the screen. The UCI commissaire would later deny our appeal because the offending sign was yellow and not white. </div>
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The ride continued through some interesting rollers that felt very much like Husky 100 and into some crazy dense jungle moto ruts. Some of these were 6 feet deep!</div>
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Back over the climb from the morning meant a wicked descent to the finish.</div>
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Between my crank and wrong turn I managed to lose 5 minutes to Diago ... bugger. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 4 - Atherton loop</td></tr>
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<b>Day 5 - Atherton to Irvinebank</b></div>
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2nd in cat / 65km / 1700 vert m / Best amateur jersey</div>
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Day 5 and I thought I had better make up for my 5 minute loss yesterday. We hit the same climb as the previous day but this time went around the other side of the mountain.</div>
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This side had a few more rollers and some near vertically steep descents and hike-a-bike. The triple down arrow did not do some of these justice!</div>
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After the first 15km I'd lost sight of Diago and was feeling good. </div>
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However, this quickly changed when going through a rocky creek bed I managed to slash a sidewall .... nooooooooo. Frustratingly I watched as Diago and Max Lelli rolled by. With a big dirt road segment coming up I knew that Max would be in his element and could give Diago a good tow.</div>
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After dealing with the flat I raced through the feed and luckily our support crew was there and I was able to restock on tubes and co2. I quickly caught back a few groups and drew out one of the solid German? elite riders. </div>
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We worked together across the open dirt roads and into the climbs.</div>
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The day was meant to be 91km with a large climb at the end, but we got word that the stage might be shortened. Since I was not paying attention I had no idea what was going on, and when the race director drove by and said 7km to go I assumed he meant to the next feed.</div>
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The stage was shortened due to some unscheduled bridge work, and so it was a short day into Irvinebank.</div>
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Another 5 minutes lost to Diago ... dammit!</div>
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Irvinebank - population of 40 and Google does not even have it on their map! $6 to visit their museum which is a bargain, since it's usually $10 but on special for Croc racers.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 5 - Atherton to Irvinebank<br /><br /></td></tr>
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<b>Day 6 - Irvinebank loop</b></div>
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2nd in Cat / 100km / 1900 vert m / Best amateur jersey</div>
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Day 6 - starting to get tired now ...</div>
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Thinking back to this stage and most of it is a blur ... </div>
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The day started out with a climb back out of Irvinebank - a lose rocky road. I pushed hard to get away from Diago and formed a group with Ondrej and Guido. Despite rotating through a larger group with Diago, Max and others caught us up.</div>
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A few attacks later and still no joy in getting away.</div>
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The open dirt roads soon gave way to the "fun" section for today. A long stretch of outback singletrack. Dry, dusty, unpredictable. Lots of dry creek crossings, little gullies, ruts that could swallow a car, mars rock descents ... </div>
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Our group started to dwindle and heading into the final feed there was Max, Guido, myself and the German from yesterday. Sweet - just 30km of climb to the finish.</div>
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Max hit the front with one of his 500w efforts. We all struggle to hang on. After a few more of these Guido and I opted to say good-bye and continued on our own.</div>
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In hindsight this was a mistake, as with under 5km to go we looked back to see Diago getting a tow from #3 - Jiri Krivanek - and driving it really hard. </div>
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Getting rolled in the last 2km was pretty tough and this stage goes down as one of my toughest days on the bike. Hot, dry and not getting a much needed win definitely hurt.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 6 - Irvinebank loop</td></tr>
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<b>Day 7 - Irvinebank to Skybury Coffee</b></div>
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2nd in Cat / 130km / 1100 vert m / Best amateur jersey / Best aussie jersey</div>
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I was a bit worried heading into day 7. A long but relatively flat stage. Today was a day where you could lose big time if you got dropped from the bunch.</div>
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The day was basically broken into a few segments. The first more of the rough and dry outback singletrack, similar to the day before. Then there was a long road (tarmac & dirt) section, another outback singletrack segment and more corrugated dirt roads to finish.</div>
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Hitting the first round of singletrack the pace was intense. Everyone was trying to get a gap and rocks, sticks and dirt were flying.</div>
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Interestingly, once we hit the tarmac at the end it all came back together. Two riders were off the front but were quickly reeled in. </div>
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It was then roadie tactic games and for me watching Diago.</div>
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The road group made up mostly of the elite riders came apart once we hit a long river crossing. About a 400 meter stretch of sand and a knee deep 50m stretch of water.</div>
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Luckily in my group was still Ondrej and Diago. Sitting in on Diago for the rest of the day I was more then happy for him to take the stage win, and stoked just not to lose any more time. </div>
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An added bonus to the day was having some real food and drink at the Skybury Coffee plantation!</div>
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With Ondrej flatting again on this stage I moved into the best aussie slot!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsBu6WFR3x_0qk0LMM8i5dJjHWzldTOiI52-hxDRhyaSbs8-_KVY-XhLFGtb5ujUzKDi-finsoEc1je6PvrBp0v9vByRI73zccCz6waUgcVBygwZY7N9fajVB99TJkhUHJq0RSRnACQVk/s1600/Day+7.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsBu6WFR3x_0qk0LMM8i5dJjHWzldTOiI52-hxDRhyaSbs8-_KVY-XhLFGtb5ujUzKDi-finsoEc1je6PvrBp0v9vByRI73zccCz6waUgcVBygwZY7N9fajVB99TJkhUHJq0RSRnACQVk/s1600/Day+7.tiff" height="164" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 7 - Irvinebank to Skybury Coffee</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b>Day 8 - Skybury to Wetherby Station</b></div>
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1st in Cat / 98 km / 1300 vert m / Best amateur jersey / Best aussie jersey</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Day 8 was just going to be about not losing any more time to Diago. I had a 10 minute buffer but did not want to risk having to use any of that. So right from the gun I was just glued to Diago's wheel.</div>
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<br /></div>
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The stage had a mixture of everything - road, dirt, outback singletrack, sand, creek crossings, grass, rainforest and even bush fires. Yup - riding past flames 6 feet high just a few meters away. Apparently it was all ok because the wind was blowing away from us ... </div>
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<br /></div>
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The altitude graph shows just how many little rollers there were on this day. It was quite a taxing day in the saddle.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Heading into the last corner it was Diago and Max, and I got the inside line and took the sprint finish. yay!!!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUgue-CL6cxYvtyPZzx936X0B11R84eM2qFRfniaWFfm2fkEuES59ibcKZqYddtWj-HNPBmzy-eR8r1RG0w_ikV6oZm35hAVj_MwvAj1VBr56lkF6eVXmtnUIkKRizvztP7IeB5F4Vvxs/s1600/Day+8.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUgue-CL6cxYvtyPZzx936X0B11R84eM2qFRfniaWFfm2fkEuES59ibcKZqYddtWj-HNPBmzy-eR8r1RG0w_ikV6oZm35hAVj_MwvAj1VBr56lkF6eVXmtnUIkKRizvztP7IeB5F4Vvxs/s1600/Day+8.tiff" height="164" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 8 - Skybury to Wetherby Station</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<b>Day 9 - Wetherby Station to Port Douglas</b></div>
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<br /></div>
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1st in Cat / 30km / 350 vert m / Best amateur jersey / Best aussie jersey / 9th Overall</div>
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<br /></div>
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Day 9 - woohoo! Just a short 30km TT - how hard can that be?</div>
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<br /></div>
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The setup for the day was a reverse start in 1 min intervals, and 2 min intervals for the top 10.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
So at 9th in GC I was not up until 11:15am - so, by then it was hot and windy. With a 2 minute gap between riders I was unlikely to see anyone else on this segment.</div>
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<br /></div>
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The altitude graph does not do the rollers justice for the first 10km of the ride. These hurt! And with big head winds I felt like I was going backwards.</div>
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<br /></div>
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The descent down the "bump track" was fun - steep and rocky. I took it pretty easy as I was paranoid about flatting on this last day.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Through some random back streets and bike paths of Port Douglas it was soon onto the sand for the final 4km. 4km is a long way when you can see the finish the whole time!</div>
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<br /></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv71CPojqu0IR3X7wbxtz9tWKzW3QRoec8kYFye_SG6NPxru2LsjNbeqnZZ0yTCREWVNs5qglJ4Wn-fHbaLjAyPY93RLuTx0ZpZm3BvvA4vilc2yN5syYIMBIOpI0JgD1718MaoGSYLOM/s1600/Day+9.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv71CPojqu0IR3X7wbxtz9tWKzW3QRoec8kYFye_SG6NPxru2LsjNbeqnZZ0yTCREWVNs5qglJ4Wn-fHbaLjAyPY93RLuTx0ZpZm3BvvA4vilc2yN5syYIMBIOpI0JgD1718MaoGSYLOM/s1600/Day+9.tiff" height="162" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 9 - Wetherby Station to Port Douglas</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<b>Overall</b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="p1">
Wow - what a race and experience!</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Would I do it again - definitely.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Firstly, a huge thanks to our support crew of MaryAnne and Monica - this race definitely needs as much help as you can get, and you guys really made a difference.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
A big thanks to my Croc Team of Jason Chalker and Dan McNamara. If Chalks had not flatted 7 times it would have won the A3 category. At least we still got 2nd in the teams classification!</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
A big thanks to our Croc Team sponsors who helped us get to the race - Vie13, Hedley Group and Anytime Fitness QBN.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
A big thanks to my usual sponsors - Cannondale, Sugoi, SRAM, Magellan, FE Sports, Stages, The Cyclery. Diago also rides a Cannondale and for many days we had 'Dales as 1, 2 and 3 on the A2 podium! Diago's wife also ride a Cannondale and she took out the amateur women's win. Go the lefty!</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Finally, a big thanks to Robyn and Indi for letting me out for few weeks!</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Some stats to finish with;</div>
<div class="p1">
</div>
<ul>
<li>~ 10 x gels / day</li>
<li>~ 4 x electrolyte bottles / day</li>
<li>6 x co2</li>
<li>3 x XX1 chains</li>
<li>4 x tires</li>
<li>2 x bb bearings</li>
<li>grip shifter rubber worn away - it's almost smooth now</li>
<li>28hr : 55min ride time</li>
<li>countless bowls of pasta</li>
</ul>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLlXbslh_nptLNABOJNyrMZb_HuyeoSbzPewoSbmuKiOPj2T8nfoJFVr-SerkeP7Rl4LljI6pAK0qMYbaBJs9-RHVyLzYBWQJVxpaDjBfiQKHzO8tSp7G6mT4GNmMkEi7dNyZM37PCZoc/s1600/13997_10205125564763306_1433098350267454339_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLlXbslh_nptLNABOJNyrMZb_HuyeoSbzPewoSbmuKiOPj2T8nfoJFVr-SerkeP7Rl4LljI6pAK0qMYbaBJs9-RHVyLzYBWQJVxpaDjBfiQKHzO8tSp7G6mT4GNmMkEi7dNyZM37PCZoc/s1600/13997_10205125564763306_1433098350267454339_n.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Irvinebank</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD7vD_KqqH0B1O7_HyTbvQDaIZreD6gORvemQvllG6kvbrO0Jp-STpckhb2lYoRUnSawAwPRW3CXdhwqzdAGGZ1QE-I2d0sPcDUJb44NEx0Bph4Hf_umr-8wGVU7hcKtyZW8HEAE3RKLc/s1600/10553356_10153224696481102_4445864081413355204_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD7vD_KqqH0B1O7_HyTbvQDaIZreD6gORvemQvllG6kvbrO0Jp-STpckhb2lYoRUnSawAwPRW3CXdhwqzdAGGZ1QE-I2d0sPcDUJb44NEx0Bph4Hf_umr-8wGVU7hcKtyZW8HEAE3RKLc/s1600/10553356_10153224696481102_4445864081413355204_n.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chalks & Andy haul</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9TjT77enTpxAepFbFkGwMWkQ0ccSr2uWV55yDV8PklIy9efvNeznmeOOhl8RM-IbmhfhLhz3LipBEpahSDf-63nOfcQlk-tLevv5s7lpCo4F93Ui0AX5MSxcrb2DLou0k7YJIrme7ibQ/s1600/AndrewHall_CRO_6774-78_byReginaStanger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9TjT77enTpxAepFbFkGwMWkQ0ccSr2uWV55yDV8PklIy9efvNeznmeOOhl8RM-IbmhfhLhz3LipBEpahSDf-63nOfcQlk-tLevv5s7lpCo4F93Ui0AX5MSxcrb2DLou0k7YJIrme7ibQ/s1600/AndrewHall_CRO_6774-78_byReginaStanger.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lead amateur jersey</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghK9E9n-lpg-5O7RB1ydG_860en16ZkOABD3YENbFPtUhzD2far1YEKxphWBdpvcXE4iqalDJQVAlMXoGHeFCleRORXL6Xs2uCgG4z_GADpcxcy7XCn2jzKcSOyqjQzKjcgzhXdtbZRHw/s1600/AndrewHall_LeanderHamelink_1SC_6950-203_byReginaStanger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghK9E9n-lpg-5O7RB1ydG_860en16ZkOABD3YENbFPtUhzD2far1YEKxphWBdpvcXE4iqalDJQVAlMXoGHeFCleRORXL6Xs2uCgG4z_GADpcxcy7XCn2jzKcSOyqjQzKjcgzhXdtbZRHw/s1600/AndrewHall_LeanderHamelink_1SC_6950-203_byReginaStanger.jpg" height="320" width="214" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wheel sucking (again)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG-y_hylE-un78vd_QpqBldFfRC44COGpuNrZtLkvoW8ShwxLPiD4VjYczwz-1Y9hM2vnQkcTApbTq9D1itf6AiSSbUDmXtQ9Ec-e0n4TMvWFXx-nlG3ibernYv1beAGbvxLlxYEe8ryE/s1600/IMG_4178.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG-y_hylE-un78vd_QpqBldFfRC44COGpuNrZtLkvoW8ShwxLPiD4VjYczwz-1Y9hM2vnQkcTApbTq9D1itf6AiSSbUDmXtQ9Ec-e0n4TMvWFXx-nlG3ibernYv1beAGbvxLlxYEe8ryE/s1600/IMG_4178.jpeg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Best aussie's</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuPJ-FbVCRMTHx0919WWgyjEIG6vAvWugT6BXWWt-u_ryz25Izw8gy7l5A4OnHXEoSR1i7fDevekVj3JmUy-h_0QbnA1GE9dfVsrSsZkO7VeQIlfu750Dp_95LLM_zyswXP4Du_fQ1ANo/s1600/RTEmagicC_AndrewHall_1SC_7086-76_byReginaStanger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuPJ-FbVCRMTHx0919WWgyjEIG6vAvWugT6BXWWt-u_ryz25Izw8gy7l5A4OnHXEoSR1i7fDevekVj3JmUy-h_0QbnA1GE9dfVsrSsZkO7VeQIlfu750Dp_95LLM_zyswXP4Du_fQ1ANo/s1600/RTEmagicC_AndrewHall_1SC_7086-76_byReginaStanger.jpg" height="320" width="214" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My "this really hurts" face</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
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<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09393949701801852456noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236829067676292384.post-91276556832554538162013-12-14T14:09:00.001+11:002013-12-14T14:09:40.333+11:00Magellan Cyclo505<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4T3ly4x3xH-If4k4n190a-ymZ6PeVB4ooQZikYtzb9CkPDCqgdg6Rzu5awM16lWm655rWaNm3hzjSCWfff7TBNC5cpvk70nIHG6qn2w_4SkmDZ21BlO2a_uiHNql_kQs15rxPTJVWkLw/s1600/IMG_2063.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Magellan Cyclo505</b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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Over the past few weeks I have had the opportunity to test out the forthcoming Magellan Cyclo505.</div>
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This is the flagship model of the new Cyclo500 series, which are due to hit the AU and NZ shelves in Jan 2014.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIQRC2iJRr80nj7zKUH6izFeMs3HxvdyISNjqzTMBzoSLJiqAcG7isxRHwBKAldfZ7hgy-OCp2LwrSL4_1ctMJnAVD0DB1ZmtuYHv_euESZe9jBRkOtvRGa4ZFj5otqHEAuYb3D1DGLxQ/s1600/IMG_1993.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIQRC2iJRr80nj7zKUH6izFeMs3HxvdyISNjqzTMBzoSLJiqAcG7isxRHwBKAldfZ7hgy-OCp2LwrSL4_1ctMJnAVD0DB1ZmtuYHv_euESZe9jBRkOtvRGa4ZFj5otqHEAuYb3D1DGLxQ/s1600/IMG_1993.jpg" height="320" width="201" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cyclo505 home screen</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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The Cyclo505 is a new approach to the standard cycling computer. It's tempting to compare it to a Garmin, but really it is quite a different product.</div>
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The Cyclo is less about structured training and metrics, and more about finding and exploring new places to ride. Being powered by the extensive Navman maps, the Cyclo has a strong map and routing technologies.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0m_GBA9rsI8QajppLBdvvT9dk5cWQ8ymadYuV1XB8FHWc5YbDI8NE43GZn8-OZ-qSl-8fG_lhcOQJTDTTxidquMvBhnmM3y1EryEcZYozUh6HQDNL59YHEhLzBqDvLnaPy842fCHcLfI/s1600/IMG_2061.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0m_GBA9rsI8QajppLBdvvT9dk5cWQ8ymadYuV1XB8FHWc5YbDI8NE43GZn8-OZ-qSl-8fG_lhcOQJTDTTxidquMvBhnmM3y1EryEcZYozUh6HQDNL59YHEhLzBqDvLnaPy842fCHcLfI/s1600/IMG_2061.jpg" height="320" width="211" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rich navigation maps and routing<br />
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I will come back to the Cyclo's focus on exploring new places to ride shortly, but first lets look at some of the basics.</div>
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The 505 is has a large display, with the unit coming in around 61 x 103mm - at 129 grams.</div>
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Under the hood, the unit supports communicating with standard Ant+ sensors (ie heart rate, cadence, power etc), as well as newer Bluetooth sensors. </div>
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The unit logs both an industry standard .FIT and .GPX file. These can then be processed by most 3rd party analysis tools. A cool little feature of the generated filenames of these files is that it includes a name of the location in which you were riding. This makes it a bit easier to spot which file you are interested in.</div>
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One of the novel communication features is that the unit has an inbuilt wifi module. The intention of having wifi support is that the unit can automatically sync completed rides - "recordings" in Cyclo talk - to the http://www.magellancyclo.com web site, and then onto other 3rd party sites such as TrainingPeaks or Strava.</div>
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This is a pretty neat feature, and certainly saves time post-ride from having to plug the unit into a PC/Mac and manually upload the workout files.</div>
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When you connect the Cyclo505 to a PC via USB, you will get two (2) mounted drives. The 2nd drive (Mio_data) will have your recordings under the /Dodge/Tracks/<profile_name>/ directory. On a MAC, the device will mount as /Volumes/Mio_data/ and the .fit and .gpx files are under the /Volumes/Mio_data/Dodge/Tracks/<profile_name>.</profile_name></profile_name></div>
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Even with the large screen and these sensors, the claimed battery life is around 12 hours. </div>
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Another unique communications feature is the ability to share your ride route with your fellow Cyclo friends via the "shake and share" feature. Simply shake your unit to initiate sharing your files with nearby units.</div>
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From a standard cycling computer perspective, the 505 supports all the standard display metrics. Time, heart rate, cadence, speed, elevation gains & loss etc. It also supports a range of basic power metrics - such as 3s avg, TSS, NP, avg power, 5m peak, 10m peak etc. </div>
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The Cyclo505 allows a user to customise each "dashboard" view - selecting the number of display metrics (max 8 per page), and the individual elements.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGeB5bzQVA-KDqHRkptYG8wBG2DeDQKcKhHFziO3Vof_6qn_pN9-XMYt6rN1OpBC8LqWV5ZAAUVz_h_qjFElxLB274_1A9G5y0DryxB-qkV8QuN72oOEOsGkSlplL_BvpyWBBQHi0wHfo/s1600/IMG_1995.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGeB5bzQVA-KDqHRkptYG8wBG2DeDQKcKhHFziO3Vof_6qn_pN9-XMYt6rN1OpBC8LqWV5ZAAUVz_h_qjFElxLB274_1A9G5y0DryxB-qkV8QuN72oOEOsGkSlplL_BvpyWBBQHi0wHfo/s1600/IMG_1995.jpg" height="200" width="116" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Power metrics</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4T3ly4x3xH-If4k4n190a-ymZ6PeVB4ooQZikYtzb9CkPDCqgdg6Rzu5awM16lWm655rWaNm3hzjSCWfff7TBNC5cpvk70nIHG6qn2w_4SkmDZ21BlO2a_uiHNql_kQs15rxPTJVWkLw/s1600/IMG_2063.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4T3ly4x3xH-If4k4n190a-ymZ6PeVB4ooQZikYtzb9CkPDCqgdg6Rzu5awM16lWm655rWaNm3hzjSCWfff7TBNC5cpvk70nIHG6qn2w_4SkmDZ21BlO2a_uiHNql_kQs15rxPTJVWkLw/s1600/IMG_2063.jpg" height="200" width="130" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Standard metrics</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8vD9oT-TaEJZJqWGVpSwTg7zp6MIEJW2SpJJf68fvxf8tDdZafMKqBrtd7KOMc9WYk9fqpnkoRTONBPnhp4C9ynty8yQq7Rw6iQoJAkigmXPQbhbALl7bHQYiqPjuDCxfLtdXTAqGIFI/s1600/IMG_1994.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8vD9oT-TaEJZJqWGVpSwTg7zp6MIEJW2SpJJf68fvxf8tDdZafMKqBrtd7KOMc9WYk9fqpnkoRTONBPnhp4C9ynty8yQq7Rw6iQoJAkigmXPQbhbALl7bHQYiqPjuDCxfLtdXTAqGIFI/s1600/IMG_1994.jpg" height="200" width="123" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Custom dashboards</td></tr>
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When you start a new ride, you start a new "recording". You press the little red button on the Dashboard screen to start. Once started, you can choose to either stop or pause your ride.<div>
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A little tip is to press "pause" first. Pressing "stop" will clear all the dashboard screens, and if you want to review your ride metrics you have to go into the History screen. So, at the end of your ride, hit pause, check out your dashboard stats and then hit stop.<br /><div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbly7FIOEYgW7SJd2wMzMbpofrJzOnZQfqvr7YYpHBe6Xy_dboGo2hCzWDG5ogmjcTSQyD_yeo9BtD_aPZL7bc4TD7aTImXDvbsV_75o74Mbc5zmNuZKz0bJ_2rZdAAYmProFaaBb3Huc/s1600/IMG_2062.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbly7FIOEYgW7SJd2wMzMbpofrJzOnZQfqvr7YYpHBe6Xy_dboGo2hCzWDG5ogmjcTSQyD_yeo9BtD_aPZL7bc4TD7aTImXDvbsV_75o74Mbc5zmNuZKz0bJ_2rZdAAYmProFaaBb3Huc/s1600/IMG_2062.jpg" height="200" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">History summary</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgynQlWsXLnb0vSdNFwj0saF3QNnlR7rGq9h-v08h2FrzkS93C3OUxug6soHgYXmPqNr8gS2Cw1NnXGUMKSZwrxRYQ6O4DeVpYvJVk7btpq3_sFg6LWk_sCyGpDub5UkjCZckuBFA8T9KQ/s1600/IMG_2064.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgynQlWsXLnb0vSdNFwj0saF3QNnlR7rGq9h-v08h2FrzkS93C3OUxug6soHgYXmPqNr8gS2Cw1NnXGUMKSZwrxRYQ6O4DeVpYvJVk7btpq3_sFg6LWk_sCyGpDub5UkjCZckuBFA8T9KQ/s1600/IMG_2064.jpg" height="200" width="128" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-MeyM2UiMkc_GfbcvV8ex58sd2hcsL0yj62jykemzUdUvPukpuTl7Mz7FV96TEbK7qIV8QqYB7GaOUcR39oX4ISuQ-_nuIDhjcl439s2EOFlBAoI3rU8U7elGdBabEmcPzFhvXhUUbi4/s1600/IMG_2065.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: 13px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-MeyM2UiMkc_GfbcvV8ex58sd2hcsL0yj62jykemzUdUvPukpuTl7Mz7FV96TEbK7qIV8QqYB7GaOUcR39oX4ISuQ-_nuIDhjcl439s2EOFlBAoI3rU8U7elGdBabEmcPzFhvXhUUbi4/s1600/IMG_2065.jpg" height="200" width="126" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Ride history details</td></tr>
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You probably noticed in the above history screen the different profiles - Evo and Flash. The Cyclo has the concept of different "Profiles". You can add your different bikes under different profiles - ie race bike, mountain bike, city bike, running etc. </div>
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These profiles serve a double purpose - one is to track which bike you did a ride on, and to associate sensors with different bikes. But the other is to set different options related to map routing. </div>
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ie if you select a city bike, it can have different map navigation routing rules then your road bike. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLlAXV1oFi9vtj47DC30i-zXR_UGhqMexUFUltjHnz2IriVwShKnjs1i_WKjqLCq_MpApRw2Be49TGJS788jVeItCu0SXULx-WNb6xeN_wyPlLWJFsBbl2wMxBr9I3KUfD4UtaFwcC7XE/s1600/IMG_2070.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLlAXV1oFi9vtj47DC30i-zXR_UGhqMexUFUltjHnz2IriVwShKnjs1i_WKjqLCq_MpApRw2Be49TGJS788jVeItCu0SXULx-WNb6xeN_wyPlLWJFsBbl2wMxBr9I3KUfD4UtaFwcC7XE/s1600/IMG_2070.jpg" height="200" width="129" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis3d8oaTBvWB48vyeyU8qL1nYZtDpoe4BfJTud4BnP6zLJ5hvf9nwH-pjawfnpBLGqcEl-W8ukULgCS-Dp9gDxL7_YaXQp9pJPdIrMGzD4UTzeJYkr46WUndEZjKJjuTwQNnMHleTpJI8/s1600/IMG_2071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis3d8oaTBvWB48vyeyU8qL1nYZtDpoe4BfJTud4BnP6zLJ5hvf9nwH-pjawfnpBLGqcEl-W8ukULgCS-Dp9gDxL7_YaXQp9pJPdIrMGzD4UTzeJYkr46WUndEZjKJjuTwQNnMHleTpJI8/s1600/IMG_2071.jpg" height="200" width="125" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWLDaOpNh22UdZ6b5xWwPARWU0m9ElCmHbcFTDUy7G-SCFa2RWUwIbNWgxa9OazIW9FTE3M9ZChBdAZsdMFjPhABSNzdWiRSIaZ2ncNtzvEhpGKjn9y7Rpr0S5pR8IJPujncBvmhDlz0E/s1600/IMG_2072.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWLDaOpNh22UdZ6b5xWwPARWU0m9ElCmHbcFTDUy7G-SCFa2RWUwIbNWgxa9OazIW9FTE3M9ZChBdAZsdMFjPhABSNzdWiRSIaZ2ncNtzvEhpGKjn9y7Rpr0S5pR8IJPujncBvmhDlz0E/s1600/IMG_2072.jpg" height="200" width="129" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTo2Z9d1H6Gng6qdFuUU6-ZB7wtpu3Mcv6vK69MeGZeesHrzGoOrV9mHnzIe2F0mZaaxjAsn4tp1g_4D2WDNqAlfwaRtzl4SD41-juHAtVaWhVRvSwbauBF6NX2WV6Zs3sWEEWVaAFdJk/s1600/IMG_2073.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTo2Z9d1H6Gng6qdFuUU6-ZB7wtpu3Mcv6vK69MeGZeesHrzGoOrV9mHnzIe2F0mZaaxjAsn4tp1g_4D2WDNqAlfwaRtzl4SD41-juHAtVaWhVRvSwbauBF6NX2WV6Zs3sWEEWVaAFdJk/s1600/IMG_2073.jpg" height="200" width="122" /></a></div>
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This leads to answering a question lots of people ask "What is the Surprise me" button?</div>
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Surprise me is one of those defining features of the 505 - providing unique ways to help the user find new places to ride and explore. Select the Surprise me button, enter a desired distance or time and your estimate riding speed - and the Cyclo will automatically generate you a route!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibko8QGKKJSTAEi6kEJaPmXMW7xenGUYvn8dUIDIceTnFsqDUTBQ_jMT08PzEJ2nDmalEkkV_PZUurim3juYD-R5jYT7vIYp_H-PtGBrHafmykU7wYW8tl7UJcPbnktrsEff8NUm4iVUo/s1600/IMG_2067.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibko8QGKKJSTAEi6kEJaPmXMW7xenGUYvn8dUIDIceTnFsqDUTBQ_jMT08PzEJ2nDmalEkkV_PZUurim3juYD-R5jYT7vIYp_H-PtGBrHafmykU7wYW8tl7UJcPbnktrsEff8NUm4iVUo/s1600/IMG_2067.jpg" height="200" width="131" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghZRGBm_cf1Zgnzi1Z8W6t3Q6QftcorswRnYw4w3PqyOnbTa6stjJzAN4PRiP4xr085cWZnU5dleTb9uYLncGUTzHJHmo9Je0vnRMxaGq1a7B36yIi6Vfmlu3vzVyVaSzB2YKlGKRyPCA/s1600/IMG_2068.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghZRGBm_cf1Zgnzi1Z8W6t3Q6QftcorswRnYw4w3PqyOnbTa6stjJzAN4PRiP4xr085cWZnU5dleTb9uYLncGUTzHJHmo9Je0vnRMxaGq1a7B36yIi6Vfmlu3vzVyVaSzB2YKlGKRyPCA/s1600/IMG_2068.jpg" height="200" width="127" /></a></div>
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This same concept is applied if you select the "Workout" button. Again, you just enter the time or distance for your workout, and the unit will generate a route for you.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmFsQDSgQUQNDcO9vw1CytuGUB5u4J65rFBZFylgXwjUh60PCU1u0SZ6J65gMbT0wxK3YF0SaxOPUuL8CRCQihv18aYkS8C8YKtWrAhXBytCnhF9x1UhzugGszYjZCrVm_JFx1w5650bw/s1600/IMG_2056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmFsQDSgQUQNDcO9vw1CytuGUB5u4J65rFBZFylgXwjUh60PCU1u0SZ6J65gMbT0wxK3YF0SaxOPUuL8CRCQihv18aYkS8C8YKtWrAhXBytCnhF9x1UhzugGszYjZCrVm_JFx1w5650bw/s1600/IMG_2056.jpg" height="320" width="195" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Time or distance workout</td></tr>
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In both cases, the generated route will give you turn-by-turn navigation directions, along with audible alerts as you approach turns. There is also zoomable and scrollable maps so you can see more about where you are going. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2_PIkMxPgjeiv3C0mPNcCB9vklKVEcGh3mOIl8OyR8LvkpoqSG3l7Oe4PuWVc1Hk7AiGHKG85euxsMW_4pf8R9NwyeuebNrTu3fbJMj8pWd4i0r6W78lqPwm3pj0I1rrap0N1CKz1WJY/s1600/IMG_1996.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2_PIkMxPgjeiv3C0mPNcCB9vklKVEcGh3mOIl8OyR8LvkpoqSG3l7Oe4PuWVc1Hk7AiGHKG85euxsMW_4pf8R9NwyeuebNrTu3fbJMj8pWd4i0r6W78lqPwm3pj0I1rrap0N1CKz1WJY/s1600/IMG_1996.jpg" height="320" width="219" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Map view</td></tr>
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Overall, a pretty neat feature for find new and random places to explore and ride!</div>
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Workouts can also be set based on target calorie counts, power zones, and heart rate zones. ie I want to ride until I burn 2000 calories, or I want to ride for 1hr in my HR zone 4. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIFaGVhCLXy_Hc8zW9jSUeZY5Gt44qsrwBjJ-IMS6gP0M-eQvGNYdDZ6rVqv5IdsnnrOy0vrpbwXsnpYAk31mIdgyCQ3EDCJ9bf8zVUyDYoHZHyXPuopnRu7fqkhFBpFXd3E4q7V98o1M/s1600/IMG_2066.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIFaGVhCLXy_Hc8zW9jSUeZY5Gt44qsrwBjJ-IMS6gP0M-eQvGNYdDZ6rVqv5IdsnnrOy0vrpbwXsnpYAk31mIdgyCQ3EDCJ9bf8zVUyDYoHZHyXPuopnRu7fqkhFBpFXd3E4q7V98o1M/s1600/IMG_2066.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Workouts</td></tr>
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These workouts are obviously a lot simpler then the more complex, highly interval structured workouts that you might find on a Garmin. For most users, this simpler functionality is all that is required. </div>
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It's simple to set your target workout goal and just get out and ride to this. </div>
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As you have probably picked up, the Cyclo505 is very focused around it's navigational routing and maps. This leads to some other neat functionality which can come in very handy, especially when riding in new or unfamiliar territory.</div>
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Like in a car navigational unit, you can search for nearby places. Some of the pre-canned categories include "Emergency" - which will find you pharmacies, medical and shops. "Bike Store" is pretty obvious and at least for the Canberra maps is very accurate and up to date. "Food and Drink" will take you to the pub, cafe or grocery stores.</div>
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The Cyclo505 is pretty simple to setup. Whether it be configuring your dashboard displays, routing preferences, wifi, or sensors - the setting screens are all pretty logical and self-explanatory.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQfOlgg51dE3uxL6yPuNnc_DecJROz00kqYUnMW4V2ZGNi8f0doiHDGhOax49aQEWmbdjrdi9mDLRGbbZjULhFmW0qnP6t62xN8qJWyMCgVNmuMYid6887dqlBheLFRKi9uzX_Eb24Aws/s1600/IMG_2069.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQfOlgg51dE3uxL6yPuNnc_DecJROz00kqYUnMW4V2ZGNi8f0doiHDGhOax49aQEWmbdjrdi9mDLRGbbZjULhFmW0qnP6t62xN8qJWyMCgVNmuMYid6887dqlBheLFRKi9uzX_Eb24Aws/s1600/IMG_2069.jpg" height="200" width="130" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-zBrvugsxJaJcFcx479MHsfzpbtoYAyehb_69ZxEGah7kp8-5HKyA4YlHwzGRqVRnnROW6a_Gv5J_HbWvAnjbBBYOaXJ4QMR7F-rUXBn921m_XpnDsfkbhA_26RP1gxbRRbhCtqFkqlo/s1600/IMG_2074.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-zBrvugsxJaJcFcx479MHsfzpbtoYAyehb_69ZxEGah7kp8-5HKyA4YlHwzGRqVRnnROW6a_Gv5J_HbWvAnjbBBYOaXJ4QMR7F-rUXBn921m_XpnDsfkbhA_26RP1gxbRRbhCtqFkqlo/s1600/IMG_2074.jpg" height="200" width="121" /></a></div>
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Setting up and configuring ant+ and bluetooth sensors is quite simple. For each sensor type, you can select the communication method and either manually scan and set the sensor association, or just select automatic and the unit will automatically pickup your local sensors. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVQ7Ii5Mrlgsz94Usn91SrLIwlwoXO90eVkLegt7mSHX5-rnhgLuU-SN7V6nf_NLBa19ilm4S-6pKdEhFceJFwvvBYJHe6cz74zkqRBFq1k1eTU7arcyt34VsT-NxcTY3X7go16ToMXa4/s1600/IMG_2075.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVQ7Ii5Mrlgsz94Usn91SrLIwlwoXO90eVkLegt7mSHX5-rnhgLuU-SN7V6nf_NLBa19ilm4S-6pKdEhFceJFwvvBYJHe6cz74zkqRBFq1k1eTU7arcyt34VsT-NxcTY3X7go16ToMXa4/s1600/IMG_2075.jpg" height="320" width="195" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Easy sensor setup</td></tr>
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For the power meter sensor there is also the option to perform a zero offset calibration. </div>
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I've tested the Cyclo505 with both my SRAM Quarq and Stages meter. Both detected fine. </div>
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A note on the Cyclo505 and power meters. At least in the beta firmware which I have been testing with, the sample rate at which the .fit file is logged to is 2 seconds. What this means is that the norm power calculation will be lower then from units which log every second. </div>
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Does this matter? Not really. The most important thing with power meters and their associated metrics is consistency. It does not really matter what the power numbers are, as long as they are consistently generated. ie do the exact same ride at the exact same output and you get the same numbers. So, if the Cyclo does result in a lower NP, that is ok as long as all your other power recordings are also done on the Cyclo.</div>
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Because the NP will be lower, you should adjust / re-determine your FTP. If you keep an FTP which you determined on a different head unit, then you will get low TSS and low IF values. </div>
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Something I have not mentioned is the unit mount. The mount is quite simple, simply place on and twist. It locks solidly in place. Provided mounts include a stem or top-tube mount, which is attached via cable ties. There is also a mount which can be clamped onto your bars - extending the unit at the front of the bars. This is quite useful for the roadie.</div>
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I mentioned earlier on the auto wifi sync to the http://www.magellancyclo.com. This is an equivalent to Garmin Connect - where your recordings can be uploaded and shared.<br />
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The interface is quite simple, clean and easy to use. One little limitation is that on a MAC, you need to use Safari as Chrome is not supported.<br />
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The home page gives you a summary of all your rides.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhapMGOLuT1iepXCoYkh_iW0auxk9uNV5E1o88-ShWMUTgMo6NTvb7A1FbuKk5VdUBlS-XiBhcO_lW-VPTm0XPwmGmP01oD7KdsaLkE7CNJvPOl-yzCjXi4t-sbdLNIbvABnUvrZTxXdZ0/s1600/magellancyclo.com.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhapMGOLuT1iepXCoYkh_iW0auxk9uNV5E1o88-ShWMUTgMo6NTvb7A1FbuKk5VdUBlS-XiBhcO_lW-VPTm0XPwmGmP01oD7KdsaLkE7CNJvPOl-yzCjXi4t-sbdLNIbvABnUvrZTxXdZ0/s1600/magellancyclo.com.tiff" height="181" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dashboard / home screen</td></tr>
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Viewing your recordings / rides, gives you all the usual graphs and metrics you would expect. Note that you can directly share your ride from this page. ie facebook, twitter etc</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTEbSZZQRCdOPO52qZH0Np0-LXJdRAcAbPyOVbnovzXFG6SRFx3xWpKNn3Oh-7wbisUmYJ2w9MuLzyblFSNK09w8AvwFAMotUO04WbLqLVFtFnekLw7HFXHQjkoNRcthf5i5vkbVefVcM/s1600/recording.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTEbSZZQRCdOPO52qZH0Np0-LXJdRAcAbPyOVbnovzXFG6SRFx3xWpKNn3Oh-7wbisUmYJ2w9MuLzyblFSNK09w8AvwFAMotUO04WbLqLVFtFnekLw7HFXHQjkoNRcthf5i5vkbVefVcM/s1600/recording.tiff" height="189" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Detailed ride statistics</td></tr>
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This site also extends the concept of finding new places to ride and explore, providing a simple interface to search for rides by distance in a specific area. You can then download these routes to your device. I think in the longer-term, this site will also provide an ability to custom build a route and down this to your Cyclo.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaEfd4jVdZ_duFuyq7_WJtcles0ICXxbZNK8oPID-31FqPcLeGuiGk9V-a4hzk43c4sblCwGst-_CKML6nEz3Ad6e9SEfgYSPGp866A9KhHUo6b58K8IZthNSN5NPz4dR6bCukaWlg2uQ/s1600/search.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaEfd4jVdZ_duFuyq7_WJtcles0ICXxbZNK8oPID-31FqPcLeGuiGk9V-a4hzk43c4sblCwGst-_CKML6nEz3Ad6e9SEfgYSPGp866A9KhHUo6b58K8IZthNSN5NPz4dR6bCukaWlg2uQ/s1600/search.tiff" height="165" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Searching for new places to ride</td></tr>
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Overall, the Cyclo505 is an impressive unit.<br />
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The big screen is easy to read and interact with. The simplified metrics and workout concepts make it simple to setup and immediately use out of the box.<br />
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The features geared towards helping you explore and find new places places to ride are really cool - and quite simply make it real easy to go places you might not ordinarily know about.<br />
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The units are meant to hit the AU and NZ shops in Jan 2014, and the pricing is quite competitive. Something like $399 for a straight Cyclo505 unit, or $479 with a unit with cadence and heart rate ant+ sensors.<br />
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I'd definitely recommend checking these out!<br />
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I'm going to keep riding and training with this unit, and am looking forward to trying out more of the navigational features of this unit. I'll report back on how this goes over the coming months!</div>
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Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09393949701801852456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236829067676292384.post-9296797206963515662013-11-13T14:52:00.000+11:002013-11-13T14:52:22.276+11:00Highland Fling - 100 miler<a href="http://www.wildhorizons.com.au/images/stories/highland-fling/2013/results/2013%20full%20fing%20oall%20results.pdf" target="_blank">1st - 06hr : 59min : 15 secs - 160km</a><br />
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The Highland Fling is one of my favorite races in the MTB calendar year. It is a great way to finish off the main race season, and can usually be counted on to be a nice hot day in the office. But just not this year ...<br />
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Standing on the start line the Garmin was reading 5.5C, and the light rain began to fall. I'd just been on a little warm up rid to the farm, and there was no shortage of dark clouds looming. This was going to be one of those days.<br />
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With the Fling falling about 4 weeks after the Scott (or Wembo) 24hr, I opted to have another shot at the miler title this year. I'd done the miler in 2010 and took a 30 minute wrong turn detour, and then in 2011 both Jase English and I set cracking times, with a 2nd place for me. In 2012, I took on the 100km race as the Fling was part of the XCM series - that hurt. Post solo, you don't have your full top end back within 4 weeks - and trying to match the 100km elite race pace was really tough.<br />
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In having another shot at the miler, it was also a good chance to go another round against UK's Matt Page and of course Ed McDonald. With both Ed and Matt pulling out of the Wembo 24hr solo early, I was not sure how their legs would be matched against mine. Certainly, 4-6 weeks after a solo you have excellent chugger / diesel form. But little top end. What would these boys bring ...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih-UM_anMG89wQNz7LMJOhJsZkkaqEdab6N2iKQaTHcphiyBrklUVY-G6eoc5P_PjsQGfdrGI5jZ9CsMwUA2UlUdIwk8uDXoI9ooJ4gbgLrtv1dlPpjQ3gj6mjUcKXSL39Ki_v9tU24Lw/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih-UM_anMG89wQNz7LMJOhJsZkkaqEdab6N2iKQaTHcphiyBrklUVY-G6eoc5P_PjsQGfdrGI5jZ9CsMwUA2UlUdIwk8uDXoI9ooJ4gbgLrtv1dlPpjQ3gj6mjUcKXSL39Ki_v9tU24Lw/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matt, myself and Ed - solo chugger reunion</td></tr>
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Ed was already at the start line, eager as ever to get going. Matt rolled up with a nice little rain jacket on. I guess he has raced in the rain before ... A few sledges later about this is Australia and we don't wear rain jackets in 5C rain it was put sheepishly back into his jersey pocket.<br />
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The race started with Panther's "B Dog" going straight to the front and driving the pace. He says he was cold and was just trying to warm up, but I think he was secretly trying to smash us all :)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIJRAp6KAnTv3oIbJRbLgAHbTQHRjx6Y-_Q5AIsFwWRYJdG2Xzi5qYA-nu72GemqI6X02q5ivXkb6Wn6J8IhLVLVG_olvl6I6cN1cz2DLMmVIjj7Kl3shY2Db71vz6W4YcDm5UvgJUys8/s1600/20x30-HLFA0005.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIJRAp6KAnTv3oIbJRbLgAHbTQHRjx6Y-_Q5AIsFwWRYJdG2Xzi5qYA-nu72GemqI6X02q5ivXkb6Wn6J8IhLVLVG_olvl6I6cN1cz2DLMmVIjj7Kl3shY2Db71vz6W4YcDm5UvgJUys8/s320/20x30-HLFA0005.jpeg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Across the grassy paddocks of the first stage</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Either way, it was good having someone up the front driving the pace. After we hit the 2nd water crossing, the lead group already culled down to maybe 6 or 7 riders. Matt Page had not made the selection, and so it was just Ed, B-Dog, myself and some 100km riders.<br />
<br />
As we raced through the undulating fireroad of the culled pine forest, I took a right hand corner and noticed a kangaroo out of the corner of my eye ... I hit the brakes just in time as the dumb roo bolted straight in front on me - almost brushing my front tire! #sketchy<br />
<br />
I wanted to make sure Matt Page did not get back across, so I kept heading up the front and lifting the pace. As we hit the little hill just outside the xmas tree plantation, I'd had enough of hanging with the 100km riders - it was time to go. I punched it over the top when I heard Ed say "lets get out of here before anyone else gets over the top". It was like he read my mind ... #spooky ... so we hit the gas for the last kms into transition.<br />
<br />
Under 56 minutes for this first section - not bad!<br />
<br />
Ed and I hung out in transition for about 3.5 minutes, and were surprised to see two of the 100km guys head straight out. Especially in the 100km race, you really want to use up that full transition time so you have it up your sleeve in case it comes down to a sprint finish.<br />
<br />
Ed and I caught them before the first of the damp Wingello singletrack. At the last minute I'd gone for the Conti Race Kings on the front - save a big of weight and rolling resistance over the X-Kings, but hitting the wet, slimy and loomy trails the Race Kings were all over the place. Luckily Ed too was on silly race tires, so it was a comical display of each of us trying to keep the bike going vaguely in the right direction!<br />
<br />
The Wingello fireroads were a mixture of damp and wet, and I had a few "Tinker" moments of the old mud in the eye. Nothing like descending a fireroad at full speed with one eye closed ...<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPQsbrN1DlKTlWxGlbye2DMwTzKx3lA13SB8JW8D9MicfFaeax1s8n4LbTnyRGVWLAHRc_DDAUBi8ws6_OSOKJexts94M2RbkUshhevP5r7byQxfFPkH_n9PQ5ABB4wmKvy_jRKIcfbgE/s1600/20x30-HLFD1083.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPQsbrN1DlKTlWxGlbye2DMwTzKx3lA13SB8JW8D9MicfFaeax1s8n4LbTnyRGVWLAHRc_DDAUBi8ws6_OSOKJexts94M2RbkUshhevP5r7byQxfFPkH_n9PQ5ABB4wmKvy_jRKIcfbgE/s320/20x30-HLFD1083.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little damp in the forest</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Soon enough we came to the infamous "Wall" ... I was confident I would be able to muscle my 34T XX1 over the climb. As we rounded the left hander, I hit the brakes, clicked through the gears and hit the wall ready to climb. Whereas, Ed attacked it full on and tried to dump the gears a few pedal strokes in ... BANG!!<br />
<br />
Ed's chain exploded and he found himself extremely intimate with his top tube and stem. I checked that he had a chain link, and his reply (a few octaves higher then normal) confirmed he did.<br />
<br />
So now it was just me and the one 100km rider left. We worked out way through the remainder of the Wingello singletrack, and had a good chat. Turned out he is the brand manager for Magellan, so I got a one on one brief on all their new cool products and features. Sold!<br />
<br />
He dropped off at the feed station, and from there it was a solo ride for me until around the 145km mark!<br />
<br />
In my last miler attempt, I'd lost a drink bottle on this inner loop and suffered in the heat - having only one bottle in over 2 hrs. This year I was determined not to let that happen, so I mounted to fricken tightest cages I could find. They are a complete pain in the #$@* to get bottles in and out of - but bottles won't fall out. So, past the feed zone I confidently reached for my 2nd bottle ... empty. WTF? A rock has pierced the bottom of the bottle and there is just a big hole there. grrrrrrrrr Guess I'll just have to open my mouth and suck in the rain drops.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFMUf-LuYvvPi1iAlkpHYhudqRw61vQsehlMnTZVQz3t8jxcy50QbyiCYM4VXBEzGKdaSMcVZBpZaTzvKn4eiwywD1OAmYHfYamHJjeAEdJ-sgqkkCJDzv9kCWUdpGogsBXuSmF90mb3A/s1600/20x30-HLFG0669.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFMUf-LuYvvPi1iAlkpHYhudqRw61vQsehlMnTZVQz3t8jxcy50QbyiCYM4VXBEzGKdaSMcVZBpZaTzvKn4eiwywD1OAmYHfYamHJjeAEdJ-sgqkkCJDzv9kCWUdpGogsBXuSmF90mb3A/s320/20x30-HLFG0669.jpeg" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Have I mentioned it was wet and slimy?</td></tr>
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<br />
Moving through the undulating climbs at the end of the inner loop it was not too bad. Most of the area's were protected from the rain and wind. But hitting the fireroad back to the transition it was nasty. Super strong head wind and horizontal freezing rain into the face. I was really wishing I had a Grant Johnston in front to draft off ...<br />
<br />
<i ...="" a="" along="" and="" but="" d="" even="" grovelling="" here="" insert="" into="" me="" not="" of="" out="" photographer="" picture="" rain="" soft="" the="" there="" was="" wind=""></i><br />
<br />
Luckily for Ed, because he was a few minutes back he got in with some of the faster 100km riders, and was able to work with these guys across these open sections - #jealous<br />
<br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyLO5QcH8768Lw2FS1Nq-7WQc7SDIgr6o2vEHVV_UFXdoWil0dUtFSeWBLzawYPQOaK4yTqnCTCztTYNqJgv8As93A-EsmWVAQmoTRPdIenMd1gdwPIbsLNujhYHFSrwWKLKhe5hZysN0/s1600/1466303_10202116397582658_1588986541_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyLO5QcH8768Lw2FS1Nq-7WQc7SDIgr6o2vEHVV_UFXdoWil0dUtFSeWBLzawYPQOaK4yTqnCTCztTYNqJgv8As93A-EsmWVAQmoTRPdIenMd1gdwPIbsLNujhYHFSrwWKLKhe5hZysN0/s320/1466303_10202116397582658_1588986541_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">It was a little cold for Robyn in transition<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
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The 2nd Wingello loop was a lot slower - 9 minutes slower. I was starting to fade - I think a combination of driving a high pace early on and the cold was taking it's toll. I had a few extra gels and hit some more caffeine to get me through.<br />
<br />
The last 20km stage is just plain nasty. You know all the bad bits which are coming ... multiple creek crossings, pinchy singletrack climbs, grassy hill climbs and slow (crap) singletrack right at the end. And all you are thinking of is getting to the finish.<br />
<br />
I was really feeling it now ... tired and cold. I kept looking back waiting to see Ed. It was on the first grassy climb I saw him ... ahhh crap, he looks fast. And we are still about 15km out.<br />
<br />
He caught me up BrokeBack, and in typical Ed style stomped by. Dilemma time - do I let him go and keep chugging along, and be content with 2nd - or do I delve into the suitcase and fight for this. A quick gel to help the decision making process, and I was on it.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyNfMRXhmjxLo0-6GDE70PkP9YE4YQKkkCO8sMFraYm3JQaZ5DWmzbW3tj-4VHatC8Ej82fqC7ALugkxtePgbu5hlb7n6ZM9HJTR8YdSa2WIWMxULxsmAQGpD2CUKHyYMsyjVPMMA_7uM/s1600/20x30-HLFE0087.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyNfMRXhmjxLo0-6GDE70PkP9YE4YQKkkCO8sMFraYm3JQaZ5DWmzbW3tj-4VHatC8Ej82fqC7ALugkxtePgbu5hlb7n6ZM9HJTR8YdSa2WIWMxULxsmAQGpD2CUKHyYMsyjVPMMA_7uM/s320/20x30-HLFE0087.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fight mode to get back onto Ed's wheel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Ed has used a few matches showing off over the climb, so I was able to get back across to him and we came out of the singletrack together. We hit the fireroad, and I was very happy to sit in behind him - my first draft opportunity in over 100km!<br />
<br />
He punched it up the "You choose" section, and got a little gap - but I was back on him as we got back onto the fireroad. It was about then I played the little mind game of saying to him "I bet you are wondering how long I spent in transition ...". I'd played this game before, and knew to take as much of the 5 minutes in transition as possible. I was betting that Ed had been impatient and had gone through early. So all I had to do was sit on him.<br />
<br />
We hit the final pinch over the grass paddocks and Ed attacked, he looked around to see if he had got a gap ... nope .... there was a little disappointment in his eyes. <br />
<br />
It must have been funny watching two baked riders trying to sprint ... slowest sprint ever!<br />
<br />
We hit the final corner, he punched it and crossed the line a few seconds before me.<br />
<br />
The waiting game begins ... it would not be until nearly 2 hours later that we found how the exact transition timings, and knew how we each placed.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPqAR0qGECyCQie14WM4UXDYy6qvoALG28H-ZWAzh5u6a6rmx1EfssNcm3nUxmU_rPktenT6XEruU8G5TNbPzHmi_-hjW4ywM2yNBzWr8RNCpukq6mBLoex6GyCMSobMLbOTg9PEv9ztI/s1600/1391663_10202116397262650_1146212008_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPqAR0qGECyCQie14WM4UXDYy6qvoALG28H-ZWAzh5u6a6rmx1EfssNcm3nUxmU_rPktenT6XEruU8G5TNbPzHmi_-hjW4ywM2yNBzWr8RNCpukq6mBLoex6GyCMSobMLbOTg9PEv9ztI/s320/1391663_10202116397262650_1146212008_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm just going to sit here for a while ...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Overall, I'm stoked to take the miler win - especially in such tough conditions.<br />
<br />
A big thanks to Robyn for being support crew today. In transition she was wearing every piece of clothing we had in the car plus a rug and was still cold. Not bad for a 9 month pregnant wife!<br />
<br />
As this rounds out my main race year, a big thanks to all our Cannondale-Sugoi team sponsors;<br />
<ul>
<li>Cannondale Sports Unlimited - the F29er was flawless and the perfect bike for the Fling</li>
<li>Sugoi - RS kit comfy in the most trying conditions</li>
<li>SRAM - XX1 34T - not a single hint of chain suck or dropped chains!</li>
<li>Avid - XX brakes brilliant in the wet - sintered pads lasted the wet conditions no problems</li>
<li>Adidas Eyewear - kept the mud out of the eyes (once I remembered to put them on)</li>
<li>The Cyclery - great support as always</li>
<li>Enduro Bearings - after this race, some new ceramic bearers will be going in real soon</li>
<li>Frameskin - keeping the rocks and gritty sand off the pretty frame</li>
</ul>
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<br />Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09393949701801852456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236829067676292384.post-8557752554980811542013-10-14T15:29:00.003+11:002013-10-14T15:31:24.232+11:00World 24hr Solo Champs - Wembo<br />
<a href="http://www.durt.com.au/events/wembo2013/category/Male%20Elite" target="_blank">3rd overall / elite</a><br />
<br />
440km, 10,300 vert m, 1052 TSS - 24hr : 31 mins<br />
<br />
Another 24hr solo race done and dusted ... here is how it played out ...<br />
<br />
There is no doubt that 24hr solo racing is tough. It's not something you specifically look forward to. You know you are going to have to work your arse off to get there, and that the race itself is going to put you through a meat grinder. But still there is a strange attraction to competing in a solo - a morbid fascination of wondering just how far you can push your body and mind.<br />
<br />
For me, the training for Wembo started for earnest back in May. All other races along the way become sideshow events. You still compete, but often after a full training week. Feeling constantly baked is all part of a 24hr build.<br />
<br />
Over the weeks from May to October, I would be slowly ramping my training - dropping off the intensity, and building the volume up to 30 hours / week. Usually, most of my training is done on the roadie. You can get in big miles, and you don't pound the body. But for solo training, you have to get the hours in on the mountain bike.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF0ofDzDWX8e0LOpOHLpUOz8l-yucHLjEyCIlQSyd5Ue9a08tJwNhKFCx2miRWUUAJ7YS58JBE3Ge6QjaDA0b5MbUY6Le108dcGlJxA57dHUR-_KU4B3tSo7QP1q8gzqGoQbfS0j88Nwo/s1600/image.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF0ofDzDWX8e0LOpOHLpUOz8l-yucHLjEyCIlQSyd5Ue9a08tJwNhKFCx2miRWUUAJ7YS58JBE3Ge6QjaDA0b5MbUY6Le108dcGlJxA57dHUR-_KU4B3tSo7QP1q8gzqGoQbfS0j88Nwo/s200/image.jpeg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winter training with Scotty</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5fO7AcAnYCUILBB46w8Yoan_PKyaAKyzEhjvbwp7fED5SRQnkeXphyphenhyphenVCW0fTP6eUXvkq1TST3wz3JpYu-wZ-Affr2siV0NYhE-LC5F1R_7-HTclMnfvsaHLRKwn8-BVu3O-8DGWTvJZs/s1600/photo+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5fO7AcAnYCUILBB46w8Yoan_PKyaAKyzEhjvbwp7fED5SRQnkeXphyphenhyphenVCW0fTP6eUXvkq1TST3wz3JpYu-wZ-Affr2siV0NYhE-LC5F1R_7-HTclMnfvsaHLRKwn8-BVu3O-8DGWTvJZs/s200/photo+(2).JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Long days in the Brindies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
My base training moved well through the cold months of May and June. The progressive overload of training was on track. In the graph below you can see the TSS increasing each week. Perfect.<br />
<br />
Oh - for those who don't train with power. TSS is training stress score. Think of it as an objective measure of the impact of the ride. A one hour TT race is 100 TSS. On the roadie, 60 TSS / hour is tempo, 50 TSS is easy. On the MTB, 50 TSS / hour is solid training and 60+ TSS / hour is singletrack racing.<br />
<br />
Anyway, my build in mid June took an unexpected turn. Whilst out riding the Googong Dam loop with Blair and Chalker, I stupidly drank some water from a flowing stream. By the end of that week, I was in the midst of full blown giardia. You can see the drop in the TSS graph for two weeks.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitPTF0bpPVTrYNG9tBLh-YroFxWRKd24_hLP2K3kCXNan3MFRVcfH6KnxV1bTUNhk6FnMq3IraY5juvxwcTp9PJwTQUu65i7uspp6IN5RLcVNyxHSA3ffVNMgY9JOhK7FFiVBlpJT42u4/s1600/tssbuild.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="144" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitPTF0bpPVTrYNG9tBLh-YroFxWRKd24_hLP2K3kCXNan3MFRVcfH6KnxV1bTUNhk6FnMq3IraY5juvxwcTp9PJwTQUu65i7uspp6IN5RLcVNyxHSA3ffVNMgY9JOhK7FFiVBlpJT42u4/s320/tssbuild.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">TSS build to Wembo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Being stubborn, I pushed on with my build, eager to get back to the bigger miles. But, this would be a big mistake, resulting in another three (3) weeks of sickness. Quite simply, trying to do full blown training when your body is shooting out all the nutrition you are putting in, and none of it is absorbed quickly runs you down.<br />
<br />
Finally, at the start of August and three (3) lots of antibiotics and countless blood tests later, I was able to get back into it ... well, for two (2) weeks at least until I caught the cold going around at work!!<br />
<br />
That was a pretty sobering week, and I was pretty close to pulling the pin on Wembo - having had such a terrible six (6) weeks.<br />
<br />
Thankfully, I was able to get in an exceptional four (4) week block - the Canberra weather was warming up, and apart from a few windy days, it was perfect training weather and I got stuck right into it.<br />
<br />
As part of my final prep for the race, Cannondale-Sugoi team mate James Downing and I decided to race in the Scott 24hr 6x7 category. It would be a great opportunity to race an almost identical course to Wembo, but at a much faster speed :)<br />
<br />
A key element of Solo racing is being able to ride smooth and efficiently. Going fast whilst using as little energy as possible. Racing the 6x7 hot laps against guys like Kyle Ward, Craig Gordon and Andy Fellows does actually help with knowing the course. You see the course with new eyes and new lines present themselves.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlZhFWL65arFS1ltj95YNTSEKLGdOuyA3b84s80wsSlYcg0RSVdppHajCic0yx54LDge7298BjpxNui0mA4SvkIo3HufujgZJxzHF3KQ0xO3aUf4aPemONW0oSCwrwtJ24ELXaGMdskwE/s1600/photo+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlZhFWL65arFS1ltj95YNTSEKLGdOuyA3b84s80wsSlYcg0RSVdppHajCic0yx54LDge7298BjpxNui0mA4SvkIo3HufujgZJxzHF3KQ0xO3aUf4aPemONW0oSCwrwtJ24ELXaGMdskwE/s320/photo+(3).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scott 24hr - 6x7</td></tr>
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Following the Scott, it was all about packing and prepping bikes for Wembo. I am always amazed just how much stuff you need to race a 24hr Solo. Between bikes, spares, nutrition, food and comforts for your support crew, clothing for any and every weather condition - it is close to two (2) car loads full of stuff.<br />
<br />
A big thanks to Cannondale Sports Unlimited for sending me down another Scalpel 29er. It's really important in a solo to run identical bikes - so you can swap between them during the race with no change to your body position or bike setup. Team mate James Downing stripped it, and re-built it from the frame up - decking it out to match my existing Scalpel 29er, with SRAM XX1, Avid World Cup brakes and all Enve wheels and components.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Embedded image permalink" height="320" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BWGwFD2IcAAzSDj.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2nd Scalpel 29er - thanks Cannondale Sports Unlimited</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Race day - and the nerves are kicking in. You sit there in your marquee, noise is all around you with riders and support crew doing last minute unpacking and setup. But you find yourself just starring at the wall. So much is going through your head, and ultimately you are preparing your mind for what is to come.<br />
<br />
The start gun goes off, and within 50 meters some of the internationals are jostling for positions. Matt Page wants to be on the front. I jokingly call out for Ed McDonald to attack :)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXBqFp1RaY7-T-_gUQBtHuO0GNsPn8Yl_wUnQb_Cs9UEF82nsCj0F6qv1YKfVD-7XVgj9MjzFz3GdBYhqgcezxWqOznL8zc4Rr2oGlsC1qIzrS-ul2PX9P5g7_OFM81UiV4-H1Dib6-pI/s1600/photo+(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXBqFp1RaY7-T-_gUQBtHuO0GNsPn8Yl_wUnQb_Cs9UEF82nsCj0F6qv1YKfVD-7XVgj9MjzFz3GdBYhqgcezxWqOznL8zc4Rr2oGlsC1qIzrS-ul2PX9P5g7_OFM81UiV4-H1Dib6-pI/s320/photo+(5).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Race start - yeah, I'm already giving Page a sledge</td></tr>
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<br />
We get a few km of fireroad before the singletrack starts. Ed and I have raced Stromlo a few times now, and happen to know it pretty well ... with everyone else trying to grab a good position, Ed, Ash and myself slipped through on the inside to get into the singletrack climb first. #sneaky<br />
<br />
Now, Ed too has had a rough six (6) weeks of fatigue and flu. There was no way he was going to be able to finish this race, so when on the first lap he attacked shortly into the climb I was going to let him go. That said, it was the first lap, so I did hit the gas a bit and also broke away from the main bunch.<br />
<br />
It's important to get everyone out of their comfort zone early in the race.<br />
<br />
A few laps in, and the main contenders were on my heels - English, Cory, Page, Lloyd and Herfoss were all close behind. Ed would get 10 minutes up the road before English could take it no longer and went off to find him.<br />
<br />
A quick word about these main contenders;<br />
<br />
* Jason English - not much to be said here ... well all know how good he is at these races :)<br />
* Cory Wallace - Kona Factory rider, Canadian Solo 24hr champ - has spent most of 2013 racing in North America, Europe and Asia<br />
* Matt Page - Pivot Factory rider, UK 24hr champ - has spent most of 2013 racing the toughest stage races through Europe and Asia<br />
* Andy Lloyd - always improving enduro rider, making his mark on the local 8hr race scene. In my mind, a wildcard entry<br />
* Troy Herfoss - comfortable in a two-wheel drift, could be riding World Cup short course when not perusing his professional moto GP riding career - he woke up one morning thinking he would give this 24hr racing a shot. Like Lloyd, another wildcard who could do really well here.<br />
* Ash Hyatt - always a solid rider and always one to watch out on. I learnt that the hard way when Ash put an hour into me in the last six (6) hours at the National 24hr Solo in 2011!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="212" src="http://sphotos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/1391940_588364664544791_217319409_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ed McDonald - he even busted out a brand new kit for this race!</td></tr>
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<br />
As we all raced the first five (5) hours until lights on, it was hot. Stromlo still does not have much protection from the sun, and guys like Matt Page were feeling the heat.<br />
<br />
I opted to take the F29er (hardtail) out for this first part of the race. Although it does place a little more fatigue on the body, the extra weight savings for the climb and nimbleness on the D make it a great choice. Psychologically, I love riding this bike - year to date, I have only raced twice on my Scalpel! The F29er is just fricken awesome.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHaL4nqgefekNd-_8OvZ_BDxqFn31TQ8HDBj8Y4DHnHdjKxSG1ZE0t1MX-NQPeI2BVNPoI0tiE5jVN3mHtDu88QJ2N7xepDWBWKMxhpKdzHGInIP5Ll1qkCk1iCvHtBMepVhNaVgD9Tkc/s1600/sportograf-43982406_lowres.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHaL4nqgefekNd-_8OvZ_BDxqFn31TQ8HDBj8Y4DHnHdjKxSG1ZE0t1MX-NQPeI2BVNPoI0tiE5jVN3mHtDu88QJ2N7xepDWBWKMxhpKdzHGInIP5Ll1qkCk1iCvHtBMepVhNaVgD9Tkc/s320/sportograf-43982406_lowres.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cannondale F29 - #awesome</td></tr>
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<br />
Lights on the bike was 5:30pm, but another good tip for 24hr riding is to wait until the last trickle of day-light before turning your lights on. So, it was not until after 7:40pm that the Exposure lights were fired up.<br />
<br />
A quick word on lights ... James and I are lucky enough to be sponsored by USE Exposure Lights, and they are exceptional lights. I ran a Reflex on the bars with a 3-cell piggy back. 2200 lumens, and this combo would last well over five (5) hours. On my helmet I ran a Diablo, again with a 3-cell piggy back in my jersey pocket. Only 108 grams on the head, and 1100 lumens for over four (4) hours.<br />
<br />
The Reflex also has some smart technology - such as digital display which tells you how many minutes you have left, and a sensor which automatically adjusts the light output - saving burn time when you are climbing.<br />
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<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7LKCwiiiUKN-5CQJf207n5-2npME5SRRrFpsK_CevAJoJ9DrhIrB_0htGBq3Ag46k_xIxCc_gBmjYTDadnhbPwGPs6lWHUYGHE712ABQcsjql1n1mqBCJ41D5LrpQQmmpvnqTnGtqumBZ/s200/image.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="200" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Diablo - 1100 lumens</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwCCYfltDIbRUwDc0wpOPrbRMLyh0kWJGh2X3P5uqyDGdUwPtdvNvGRJkJ47ddd07tpVRQ_Zp3rE7sBe6BhyphenhyphenQmYI0XcjnXhYgwx40yiTJwyLoRt17Rmr1uCql6n6bGkEWoJoEAOurVE2dn/s200/image_3.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="200" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reflex bar mounted</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMBu-k9bFzgMBXrhLBzU0rwmx9zrrp55JCGYPmgsGZDxxrpFj-OmxmvbdRdo0JeFgKpdHDG2aNL24BxvUfEAzFCbeFwxdTtdmiCnJr1QUL3hjFcxJ4TEr0Qs9ytpf8dHf974gFNYnabHha/s200/IMG_1507.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="200" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reflex - 2200 lumens</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXZK0wIDp9y2cIXY6q3REyXY1-96CsIC1WScsvXqnPwDxc7ImYGS7cHeYvRKhLOI11pMFwhY0LoLfqGDyxZB8mjlgx5RwYFi8ScJ6HLD-0Czu-CBgstM0E_JtXoxVbLsOSYEI8ibWvopqF/s200/image_2.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="200" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reflex digital display</td></tr>
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<br />
In a 24hr Solo, the night is always a welcome relief. The opening lap intensity is over, nerves are settling and you can just concentrate on maintaining a steady pace. The cooler temperatures are refreshing, and riding under lights keeps you focused. <br />
<br />
Early in the night, I got word that Ed and Troy were out. It was also clear that Page was suffering, and it was not too much longer until he too conceded to the brutality of Stromlo.<br />
<br />
Midnight is a key milestone in a 24. You can't win a 24 in the first 12 hours, but you sure can loose it. Pacing and energy consumption are the highest priority leading up to midnight.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUsF_O5l8AL9iJo-xMWcFF9xBxFdn2ah_2XnoWgP7Vh54ZWHwTrkH4D_tQr07WiK-yJUbWOrKDSGQnrZHzckQWiYLXIL0xKgX3hf6HfCWVUGo7nc43dart-IgvsaJ6oFkBkZdyPo2TmE/s1600/photo+(7).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUsF_O5l8AL9iJo-xMWcFF9xBxFdn2ah_2XnoWgP7Vh54ZWHwTrkH4D_tQr07WiK-yJUbWOrKDSGQnrZHzckQWiYLXIL0xKgX3hf6HfCWVUGo7nc43dart-IgvsaJ6oFkBkZdyPo2TmE/s320/photo+(7).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Into the night ...</td></tr>
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My best tips for this part of the race is to ride as smooth as possible, and use as little energy as you can. Soft pedal - it should feel like you are hardly using your quads. Don't punch it out of corners, and when you over-take keep it smooth - don't accelerate hard back up to pace. Slowly get back to speed. Where possible, don't take 'A' lines where you need to power up a section.<br />
<br />
Avoid rocks and tree roots - ride around them, even if it is an extra second. Every bump adds up on your body. Find the smoothest lines.<br />
<br />
At midnight, you should have a good feeling for how the rest of the race will unfold for you.<br />
<br />
For me, I had some slow laps around 10pm, and then 2am until day break. Around 1am I was pretty close to pulling the pin. My wrists were hammered. I had a little too much PSI in one of my lefty's, and I could barely hold the bars. My slow laps were simply because I could not descend with any speed.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg096SVW7edLT0_7oo5WG0oMnvHPyjrT98u2GfrUlKAvafqsVJ1iAcVEGYkn0CZKyKrZjp2Nyjsi0EfCu7_trX00j9gDfYhux1LMa6Sv367n4iZnzk_Jdth4ctq4Glp2hZ8N5DRnfT5rYk/s1600/photo+(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg096SVW7edLT0_7oo5WG0oMnvHPyjrT98u2GfrUlKAvafqsVJ1iAcVEGYkn0CZKyKrZjp2Nyjsi0EfCu7_trX00j9gDfYhux1LMa6Sv367n4iZnzk_Jdth4ctq4Glp2hZ8N5DRnfT5rYk/s320/photo+(4).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Support crew - Robyn and Aaron</td></tr>
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<br />
It was my top support crew who got me to continue riding. A bit of Nerofen, a sh*t-tin of caffeine, some suspension tweaking and a big slap on the arse got me back out there.<br />
<br />
After midnight, the next big milestone is day break. The sun brings warmth, and importantly just six (6) hours to go!!<br />
<br />
Through the night, Jase built and sustained his lead, Lloyd continued to ride exceptionally well and consistent, jostling with Cory for 2nd place. A unexpected surprise was that Scotty Chancellor had moved up behind me to be in 5th place!<br />
<br />
It's no surprise to see Scotty doing well at a solo, but given that he only decided to race the day before and had not done any training for the event, it was pretty impressive!<br />
<br />
Scotty actually got within 12 minutes of me in the morning before he burnt his last match and had to pull the pin.<br />
<br />
With four (4) hours left to race, I was told that my gap to Cory was dropping! What once was a 25 minute deficit was now only seven (7) minutes! Time to see what I had left in the tank, and to burn off any remaining energy. The thought of picking off Cory, and getting on the top 3 podium was a huge incentive so I stomped it!<br />
<br />
On that first lap, I put 11 minutes into him! I've been there before, completely broken with just a few hours to go - when you can hardly turn the pedals over. When someone attacks, you have no response - there is nothing you can do but watch them go up the road.<br />
<br />
Not to underestimate Cory, I kept the pace on - putting out four (4) of the fastest morning laps.<br />
<br />
Heading out on my last lap, I got word that Cory was done and had finished early. Ahhh - time to do the slowest lap of the race. Luckily, I had supporters and friends all around the track - Steve Hanley kept me company, and JD and Kylie popped up all over the place to offer final words of encouragement.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfSqgR7RtFMmoSFloAT3Y5ZFTys2UmC5PuvlBk4zBT1_wJVP4kA4-RT2C_6Zyni7-qqzug2WvTq8_Ie_hkbp3lIMK2SAStexQQ7iTr1YtM2CC9Lvro3z4hjv0Gv4HPQ5269m11t92jkvQ/s1600/photo+(6).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfSqgR7RtFMmoSFloAT3Y5ZFTys2UmC5PuvlBk4zBT1_wJVP4kA4-RT2C_6Zyni7-qqzug2WvTq8_Ie_hkbp3lIMK2SAStexQQ7iTr1YtM2CC9Lvro3z4hjv0Gv4HPQ5269m11t92jkvQ/s320/photo+(6).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">JD approving my sock height</td></tr>
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<br />
A quick word on my nutrition strategy ... quite simple really, 48 x Clif gels, 5 x Clif shot-bloks and 24 bottles of Clif electrolyte drink.<br />
<br />
Clif-Bar are not a sponsor - I choose them specifically because I believe they are the best gel and electrolyte drink out there. The gels are really simple - something like 5 ingredients and organic. Being so simple, they sit easily in the stomach.<br />
<br />
I use the Shot-Bloks with the extra sodium content - this helps keep any cramps away in the hot weather.<br />
<br />
Through the early morning I use the caffeine Clif gels. These come in various caffeine mg sizes - from 25 - 100 mg / gel. This makes it really easy to regulate your caffeine intake. I find it better to take 2 x 25mg caffeine gels / hour then a single 100mg caffeine gel. The body seems to cope better with a smooth caffeine intake, rather then spikes.<br />
<br />
Finally, a few thanks ...<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Robyn and Tommo - thanks for being a great pit crew - looking after me and the bikes</li>
<li>James - thanks for prepping the 2nd Scalpel</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Cannondale Sports Unlimited - F29er (best bike in the world), and Scalpel 29ers were brilliant + the Sugoi RS clothing and gloves were super comfy</li>
<li>SRAM Australia - XX1 34T and Avid brakes - reliable and light.</li>
<li>Exposure Lights - bright, reliable, light and a pleasure to use</li>
<li>Adidas Eyewear - Evil Eyes all the way</li>
<li>The Cyclery - making sure JD and I always have the bits we need</li>
<li>Frameskin - keeping the Stromlo rocks off my frames!</li>
<li>Enduro bearings - top quality ceramic bearings in all my hubs and bottom brackets</li>
<li>Mark Fenner - FTP training - There are not too many people who understand 24hr racing - let alone those who can coach riders for these events - Fenz did a top job of my training schedule to prepare me for this race</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li> All the Wembo, CORC and DURT crew - Russ, Sarah, Jack and co - 2 x 24hr races in 2 weekends - well done!!</li>
<li>The drunk dudes at the top of the mountain at 1am - you said pull a wheelie if you are happy - but I was not happy :)</li>
<li>The other dudes at the bottom of the mountain with the cow-bells and horns</li>
<li>The bikini chick on course - Herfoss was excited and will bring his own moto pit-babes to the next race for sure</li>
</ul>
<div>
Well done also to Jason McAvoy and The Beard Bellchambers - 5th & 6th overall - go the Canberra solo riders!</div>
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What's next? Husky 100km in a few weeks (yeah, that will hurt) and then the 100miler Fling in a month (yeah, it will still hurt by then too). </div>
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A few photos from the Scott last week ...</div>
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Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09393949701801852456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236829067676292384.post-72845523236758569882013-09-16T09:50:00.004+10:002013-09-16T09:50:32.996+10:00RTE 7hr - Stromlo2nd - 7hr (elite solo)<br />
<br />
15 laps - 07 hrs 06 mins 13 secs<br />
<br />
Last weekend was the <a href="http://www.rockytrailentertainment.com/" target="_blank">Rockytrail Entertainment GP7</a> round at Mt Stromlo.<br />
<br />
7 hours at Mt Stromlo sounded like a good opportunity to get some Stromlo race miles in the legs ahead of the Scott and Wembo 24hrs.<br />
<br />
7 hours at Stromlo - easy right? Well, chuck in a massive training week and one of the toughest enduro course you can run this was always going to be a grovelfest ...<br />
<br />
The course was the switchbacks up to the Playground, then down through Rascals. Old Duffy, Blackberry etc through to Blue Tongue, Heartbreaker and Skyline. The down Luge and Berm track all the way to the bottom.<br />
<br />
In this course, the climb is not the hard part ... it is the repeats of Berm and Luge - as you are descending, on the brakes and hitting the berms with full speed. This adds up pretty quickly, nailing your wrists, hands and shoulders.<br />
<br />
The race start was complete chaos. Martin had the idea of a rolling start down the 4x bridge. Sounds good, but letting loose a couple hundred riders on the sketchy right-hander with only 150 meters until the first singletrack is always going to be craziness.<br />
<br />
Needless to say, there was a lot of bar rubbing and jostling for position as we headed for the first singletrack. I opted to jump in behind the Wombat (aka Shaun Lewis) - and figured I'd spend the first lap behind Lewey and Kyle.<br />
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Unlike the 7hr at Mt Annan, I was not going for any first lap craziness and was content after the first lap to let the 4hr and team riders go. I knew this was going to be a long day out.<br />
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I set my own steady pace and took advantage of the open track before we would catch up to traffic.<br />
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Looking back, I could not see Ed but figured it would not be too far behind. On about the 2nd lap of traffic, Ed, Andrew Lloyd and Troy came across to me. They got caught in the traffic and I kept a little gap down the descent.<br />
<br />
We all came together again on the climb back up the switch backs, but something happened to Ed and he dropped off, and Lloyd binned it hard coming out of the wall ride.<br />
<br />
Troy smartly sat in, and was clearly riding well. I was quickly showing my fatigue, making lots of silly technical mistakes. Blrruuk.<br />
<br />
Around the 5 hour mark, Troy went to the front and put in a fast descent. Feeling even more baked, I had little interest in chasing him down. Having not seen Ed for some time, I figured I could just roll out the last 2 hours.<br />
<br />
In the end, Troy finished in 7:04, me at 7:06 and Ed at 7:12 - so all pretty close - and a great training ride!<br />
<br />
Putting in 15 repeats of Skyline and Luge was a good reminder of the pain to come in Wembo, where we could be seeing close to 24 x Skyline + Luge repeats!<br />
<br />
For this race I took out the Cannondale F29er - so 29er hard tail. I opted for this over the Scalpel purely to save weight. The course had nothing really rough, so the F29er was great fun.<br />
<br />
Although the climb added up, I ran the XX1 36T chain ring. Even with this I never got near the top of the rear cassette - on this course, I think I really only used 4 gears for the whole day!<br />
<br />
A big thanks to;<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Cannondale Australia - F29er was awesome as always</li>
<li>Sugoi Australia - Sugoi RS kit worked a treat</li>
<li>Adidas eyewear</li>
<li>The Cyclery</li>
<li>Frameskin</li>
<li>SRAM Australia - XX1 36T</li>
</ul>
<div>
Now off to get in another 30 hour week!!</div>
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="405" scrolling="no" src="http://www.strava.com/activities/82738033/embed/d6870715cfd80b16856b54e25c8a88bde0f7999b" width="590"></iframe><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN3OQ9gSYKCPXHZRxG3fWrO3nF28y2VeL2rutIzlwB4M_5thIDzFoj12OAlC0HnOBzYzhh1JfkYNJPKOUTC1IQKuTxYry0YUhbkhyphenhyphenx96JXIDIW9LP62EAf7HaAHU7NsvLokbdo3pHcqjU/s1600/Screenshot_2013-09-07-19-45-08.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN3OQ9gSYKCPXHZRxG3fWrO3nF28y2VeL2rutIzlwB4M_5thIDzFoj12OAlC0HnOBzYzhh1JfkYNJPKOUTC1IQKuTxYry0YUhbkhyphenhyphenx96JXIDIW9LP62EAf7HaAHU7NsvLokbdo3pHcqjU/s320/Screenshot_2013-09-07-19-45-08.png" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"yeah, I grovelled around for 7 hours ..."</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl5TCd8e2mIa_puf2W1gS2bno-AA3gLgNP5klwCmXGdOdUkRPx6lazySr2WE0j5D_b0L_nsmTAhSYeM622PuiOh_En3KkNAnOTMz5W4clvR8X8N0HgPFl1ePcsC4dFzkmLFn3acMOT8Co/s1600/RTS13-5240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl5TCd8e2mIa_puf2W1gS2bno-AA3gLgNP5klwCmXGdOdUkRPx6lazySr2WE0j5D_b0L_nsmTAhSYeM622PuiOh_En3KkNAnOTMz5W4clvR8X8N0HgPFl1ePcsC4dFzkmLFn3acMOT8Co/s320/RTS13-5240.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Classic Canberra shot</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNcLwXLuMWPVwJIVKxtBFJjB3qAk6adnZNjQ4iL6yvO751ThnapsSUgnc-iQlpf9vf_Cqso1VOpRBQXVEWXoA76221JBw00Z2u1vPgvYkaRnShAYsGVh3U1UG7MUrSQWbPSlWBCr_8VaU/s1600/RTS13-1573.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNcLwXLuMWPVwJIVKxtBFJjB3qAk6adnZNjQ4iL6yvO751ThnapsSUgnc-iQlpf9vf_Cqso1VOpRBQXVEWXoA76221JBw00Z2u1vPgvYkaRnShAYsGVh3U1UG7MUrSQWbPSlWBCr_8VaU/s320/RTS13-1573.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Skyline ... wooo hooo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_OlqydmPer5iZqKg-ORr5yDMMbneoM3qy5J4zrXkmV0Y4dM3XDp3LGJhxT705OMlW2XJZ7FPfM2RSbPPhu14btC6RBINriLWNag2lnGNuDdBXGhVKeU_cIrrp5bTn0CHZlsf0sPOiVYw/s1600/RTS13-0069.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_OlqydmPer5iZqKg-ORr5yDMMbneoM3qy5J4zrXkmV0Y4dM3XDp3LGJhxT705OMlW2XJZ7FPfM2RSbPPhu14btC6RBINriLWNag2lnGNuDdBXGhVKeU_cIrrp5bTn0CHZlsf0sPOiVYw/s320/RTS13-0069.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Are we there yet ... ?</td></tr>
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<br />Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09393949701801852456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236829067676292384.post-91559763942391081932013-08-26T16:42:00.002+10:002013-08-26T16:42:45.646+10:00Backyamma 100km3rd elite 100km - 3hrs 40-something<br />
<br />
It was that time of the year again ... time to head up to Parkes for the <a href="http://www.bybf.com.au/" target="_blank">Backyamma Big Foot 100km</a>.<br />
<br />
In previous years, Backyamma has been a bit of a cursed race for me. Two years ago I was with the lead group of <a href="http://pin-it-you-muppet.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">James 'JD' Downing</a>, and The Beard Bellchambers when I broke my gear shifter. Last year I had some mechanicals, fought back but in the final few kms with JD and Jeremy 'Angry Man' Ross when I lost the front wheel on a drifty corner and had a little roll in the dirt.<br />
<br />
So this year it was going to be different ...<br />
<br />
JD has won this race a few time before, and we had been planning our team tactics for quite some time. The simple plan was for me to set the pace, keep the race under control, shutdown any attacks and get JD to the finish line first.<br />
<br />
This plan sounds simple enough, but when guys like Mark 'Tupac' Tupalski and Ed 'I need a hair cut' McDonald turn up it won't be a walk in the park. Tupac had some outstanding XCO results earlier in the year, and now back in full training is pumping out some massive power numbers. Meanwhile, Ed is in the midst of training for the World 24 hrs in October, and in good shape.<br />
<br />
For me, this was also a race to see how I was feeling. I'd had a pretty mixed bag last 6 weeks - having had a round of Giardia from drinking some bad stream water and then related on-going stomach problems, I had no-idea how I would hold up. I'd missed one of my favorite races a few weeks back - the Jet Black 12 hr - so I was itching for a race.<br />
<br />
Standing on the race start line it was fricken cold! I knew I'd be warm within a few minutes, but shivering away as the clock counted down was pretty sucky.<br />
<br />
We had all had our morning caffeine, so the start line sledges were flying. Between Ed, Tupac, Bellchambers, JD and the fleet of Onya boys there was lots to say ... and lots of tire pressures to comment on.<br />
<br />
As the gun went, it was the usual chaos down the opening dusty fireroad. A slightly downhill run for a km or so mean that everyone can hang on (and get in the way). It's important to move around the traffic and get a good position heading into the first singletrack.<br />
<br />
I squeezed in behind Ed just as we entered the singletrack - and proceeded to offer him some constructive criticism on his line selection. :)<br />
<br />
He ultimately failed the line selection test as we hit "Bellchambers Ravine" - a little gully crossing a few kms into the singletrack. Ed missed the 'A' line completely, and lost a good few seconds on everyone!<br />
<br />
"Bellchambers Ravine" was named after last year when Brett took the line before the 'A' line, and pretty much just ended up in a ditch going no-where! And watching a single-speed rider try to get up a steel gully ditch with no run-up is pretty funny.<br />
<br />
As we hit the first stretch of fireroad the pace picked up some more, and pretty soon we were down to only 5 or 6 riders. <br />
<br />
The first 25km went by real quick. I tried to set the pace as much as possible, with Tupac coming through to do a little work and the odd little attack.<br />
<br />
I had some fun with some creative line selections to sneak back in front of boys when required - the benefit of having done the full 50km the day before.<br />
<br />
The back 25km was a bit different to previous years - gone was the fast fireroads and little fireroad climbs. Instead we had a mix of rake job, overgrown singletrack and random bunting through the scrub.<br />
<br />
Tupac was getting excited being whipped by all the trees, and Ed was enjoying the exfoliation benefits ...<br />
<br />
We were all happy to get back to the creek bed, and the final few kms of fast flowing track to take us back through transition.<br />
<br />
Robyn had my next drink bottle ready to go, so as the other boys had to stop for their I just took off down the fireroad. Although not a fully fledged attack, it got Ed and Tupac having to do some chasing - and gave JD the tow back to me.<br />
<br />
Over the next 25km Tupac tried a few attacks but we managed to stay on him, and not let him free in the singletrack sections where he could be real dangerous. This also gave me a great opportunity to get the 38-10 fired up! #sweet<br />
<br />
We also kept the sledging up - "4 riders ... oh wait, nah 3.5 riders as Ed hasn't done a turn yet"<br />
<br />
As we entered the last 25km and the real scrubby singletrack we knew no-one would get away here, so it was just cruising until we hit the last run up the creek bed.<br />
<br />
Cranking up the pace, we flew up the dusty trails next to the creek. The river crossing before the run back down to the finish would be interesting, and we all managed to nail it.<br />
<br />
Tupac launched an attack straight out of the creek crossing, but we were on it quick and now he had the unlucky position of having a 2km run up into a head wind.<br />
<br />
With about 300 meters to go, JD attacked and hit the last segment of singletrack ahead of Tupac.<br />
<br />
With JD clear, it was now just Ed, Tupac and I to negotiate the crappy ditch gully section before the finish. This gully has a range of lines, massive holes and really no good lines through it. Ed and Tupac hit the left lines, and I opted for the right.<br />
<br />
I lost just a little too much speed, allowing Ed to just have those few extra pedal strokes to get by me in the 100m sprint out of the gully.<br />
<br />
So, in the end JD, Ed, myself and Tupac - and I'm certainly not disappointing with that. The goal of getting JD to the finish line first was achieved, and 3rd place was a bonus for me after sitting on the front for so much of the race.<br />
<br />
It was great to be back at a race too!<br />
<br />
A big thanks to;<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Robyn for coming up to pit crew</li>
<li>Cannondale - F29er is the bike for Backyamma</li>
<li>Sugoi clothing - RS kits comfy as always</li>
<li>SRAM - XX1 38T ... yeah!</li>
<li>Adidas eyewhere - saved my eyes during the scrub bashing segments</li>
<li>The Cyclery</li>
<li>Frameskin</li>
</ul>
<br />
Well done also to Kyle 'Superfast Chick' Webb, on smashing the 50km womens field ... and sticking her tongue in the BigFoot's ear during pressos.<br />
<br />
<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjruVuLxqoVxYwAKzGxHk6B3FMDMGZEVEkWt_b0VSiop-iorqTqxFa9Mj6TAOpHnDrPzqC_mvd0Tv4jTqaYOCnZFTbsqVO5goBnbVz_SvDxMFPkljnvtFCpTVBSiI7RtTodEaQ7lvP4REE/s640/bybf+podium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjruVuLxqoVxYwAKzGxHk6B3FMDMGZEVEkWt_b0VSiop-iorqTqxFa9Mj6TAOpHnDrPzqC_mvd0Tv4jTqaYOCnZFTbsqVO5goBnbVz_SvDxMFPkljnvtFCpTVBSiI7RtTodEaQ7lvP4REE/s320/bybf+podium.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ed, Bellchambers relative, JD and I</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDCyRA0Rs37XyST4TtBD1G6lnqH60Q4NVSgA4XyWjND5J7lTgW2AbY_lpUfWvZ2CK_8QZTtfa_h7MKPcv6eNJoKFObLV2TZGGRxDB44BTlW6FtBUqTcSjq61KwBv-iVtF5rEANwHv6t5c/s1600/9590577148_78d66453e5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDCyRA0Rs37XyST4TtBD1G6lnqH60Q4NVSgA4XyWjND5J7lTgW2AbY_lpUfWvZ2CK_8QZTtfa_h7MKPcv6eNJoKFObLV2TZGGRxDB44BTlW6FtBUqTcSjq61KwBv-iVtF5rEANwHv6t5c/s320/9590577148_78d66453e5.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/timruckley/9590577148">http://www.flickr.com/photos/timruckley/9590577148</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwpk6iZOdbNddGC42Y9mTKIfCcSPaqgmRDrzIBEVK4ydnWAHo_Pigg-3OEnm6BebSct5sgq92H6IRncG374h-cBNlXQaBeaRoi5FDZSdFD0GAOO7WA9cPrfZQO0T-V-QYZ3N5CDR27xSM/s1600/9590588166_f5c44e8e14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwpk6iZOdbNddGC42Y9mTKIfCcSPaqgmRDrzIBEVK4ydnWAHo_Pigg-3OEnm6BebSct5sgq92H6IRncG374h-cBNlXQaBeaRoi5FDZSdFD0GAOO7WA9cPrfZQO0T-V-QYZ3N5CDR27xSM/s320/9590588166_f5c44e8e14.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/timruckley/9590588166">http://www.flickr.com/photos/timruckley/9590588166</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilSH3KhrhWZX_sOc6K7pAD9Gsga6cVlrDYicPGlo0i1IMyqhUKQaahg7sc0ZV9TF7hu8IMHXTlk1R8vZIBpXP3saO8R9app1LfokVxeNtGZWR207eAj3uijGUc42wR55qBVhS-lVdumFY/s1600/9590704838_feedda1135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilSH3KhrhWZX_sOc6K7pAD9Gsga6cVlrDYicPGlo0i1IMyqhUKQaahg7sc0ZV9TF7hu8IMHXTlk1R8vZIBpXP3saO8R9app1LfokVxeNtGZWR207eAj3uijGUc42wR55qBVhS-lVdumFY/s320/9590704838_feedda1135.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/timruckley/9590704838">http://www.flickr.com/photos/timruckley/9590704838</a></td></tr>
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<br />Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09393949701801852456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236829067676292384.post-50049175503744351002013-06-28T18:05:00.001+10:002013-06-28T18:05:19.271+10:00Exposure Lights Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDZ8CClI0fb3h-QtBkEYc9EdfgXExBqn4PDiYq7W3akp3iUfdBpsiIGl6ew1zgd2rmF8YCmCB7t73SZT0thWegW_vG3rBvBOMTijBJTODsqPXEJzTVh-7sTRTwwDQHKIzu0fMmawNU8h2z/s500/ExposureLights_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDZ8CClI0fb3h-QtBkEYc9EdfgXExBqn4PDiYq7W3akp3iUfdBpsiIGl6ew1zgd2rmF8YCmCB7t73SZT0thWegW_vG3rBvBOMTijBJTODsqPXEJzTVh-7sTRTwwDQHKIzu0fMmawNU8h2z/s320/ExposureLights_01.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Cannondale Sugoi Factory Racing is pleased to welcome Exposure Lights as an official team sponsor!<br />
<br />
Even though USE has just officially come on board, team riders have been using the 2013 Exposure Lights all year, and have logged up plenty of race and training hours using these great lights.<br />
<br />
We thought it time to share our experiences and thoughts on these lights with you ...<br />
<br />
Lets start with the mountain bike helmet light, the Diablo Mk4. This light also doubles as a great light for the roadie when you are out doing hill repeats in the dark and need to dodge the odd kangaroo!<br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9lmJO4YOL-oZGUh9pKvBv_ATQQMHd-sYGdu-AW9EL-T88zeTw6YgsHDEWrd_HGBClVz_HvYSQtVfwbNA0dowI-nuNY4xa6ZKhJj5k3RljiuRJ8DOC97EabG0BSqwQkbGshkwcPOiOSy40/s1600/IMG_1508.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9lmJO4YOL-oZGUh9pKvBv_ATQQMHd-sYGdu-AW9EL-T88zeTw6YgsHDEWrd_HGBClVz_HvYSQtVfwbNA0dowI-nuNY4xa6ZKhJj5k3RljiuRJ8DOC97EabG0BSqwQkbGshkwcPOiOSy40/s320/IMG_1508.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Diablo Mk4 - 106 grams</td></tr>
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The Diablo Mk4 puts out a solid 1100 lumens at it's max level, and this will last for an hour.Weighing in at under the advertised weight, the lights is easily under 110 grams - making it ideal for either a helmet mount or bar mount.<br />
<br />
The Diablo uses the USE "Optimised Mode Selector" (OMS) technology - which is a fancy way of saying you can easily change between both the output level, as well as select from a range of 8 pre-configured hi-medium-lo configurations.<br />
<br />
For instance, in the 1st mode, you will be 1hr / 3hr / 6hr out of the hi, medium and low settings. An alternate mode will give you 3hr / 10hr / 24hr burn times!<br />
<br />
Selecting a mode is simple via pressing a led colored button on the rear of the light. The button is big enough that even with winter gloves you can easily change modes. Each mode is colored coded, so it is easy to see which mode you have gone into.<br />
<br />
As the battery runs down the same light changes color to indicate run time remaining. Green means > 50%, orange 25-50%, red 5-25% and below 5% the button will flash and the light will go into the lowest setting.<br />
<br />
Having used this light in a bunch of night races - including the Mont 24hr, Australian Solo Nationals, and the night stage of the ICME Alice Springs Stage Race - I can say that the 1100 lumens is more then you need to race with on your helmet. Where you have the luxury of knowing you will be only out on track for under an hour, crank it up to full output and enjoy all those lumens.<br />
<br />
The light is bright and focused. It is a white light, but does not wash out the ground contrast. Take note that the burn time on the Diablo is quick - unlike all the other USE lights, if anything this light may be slightly under the advertised time. So, err on the side of caution when estimating burn time!<br />
<br />
When out on the roadie, I usually just run the light in the middle mode (3 hr). This is still brighter then many other lights on the market and all you need on the road.<br />
<br />
For racing in longer night events, such as a 24hr Solo or a 12 hr I would suggest plugging in the "Piggyback triple cell" and stashing this in your jersey pocket. This should extend the burn time at max output to 4 hours. Keep in mind as well that these piggy back battery packs are quite cheap,so you can easily stock up on a few of these to get you through the night.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYJlgMuY9dADPPbJzCSv-MYeH7SmeZqf2VlOIIuyh2b28x_iYqCXstf2G3GHtNBTXdtl_krxu8oGOSBmRxrYE8Ex10rYrlw16wGr0ubbQTjpW_GhmEuD9Yx5EIK-RDbsnZXgkW-sHM3CVZ/s1600/IMG_1510.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYJlgMuY9dADPPbJzCSv-MYeH7SmeZqf2VlOIIuyh2b28x_iYqCXstf2G3GHtNBTXdtl_krxu8oGOSBmRxrYE8Ex10rYrlw16wGr0ubbQTjpW_GhmEuD9Yx5EIK-RDbsnZXgkW-sHM3CVZ/s320/IMG_1510.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Piggyback triple cell - 204 grams</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I've also run the "Piggyback single cell" on the rear of the helmet. These only weight round 76 grams and can easily be mounted with a bit of velcro. This will bump your burn time to 2 hours at full, or 6 hours at half. This too is a good option for a night race.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrWV9LDQXrAgmYk4BfOEPWRBCBWA6282eqSIuQgBeFSrUmgUfKav0PoulHyKBtdfOkruDZx3FrCgaBimoGPUt7FwKuxuolCL0bMiJMtwGhEeFL0XN_od67xykX2NiWYWLT0tTx7fJPVoTJ/s1600/IMG_1511.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrWV9LDQXrAgmYk4BfOEPWRBCBWA6282eqSIuQgBeFSrUmgUfKav0PoulHyKBtdfOkruDZx3FrCgaBimoGPUt7FwKuxuolCL0bMiJMtwGhEeFL0XN_od67xykX2NiWYWLT0tTx7fJPVoTJ/s320/IMG_1511.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Piggyback single cell - 76 grams</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
If you are super diligent, you could also plug in one of the Remote Switches - basically a big button that plugs into the light making it even easier to change modes. Stick this on your helmet too and you can easily switch between modes - turn down for climbing and crank it up for descents. Doing this sort of battery saving will buy you even more time between light and battery swaps.<br />
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Keep in mind as well that when you come into the pits and need to swap lights the Diablo is simple to pull off the helmet mount and stick in a new one. There are no cables, velcro, rubber straps etc to get in the way of the mount. Just clip out and clip in.<br />
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The other awesome thing to note about the helmet mount is that it is on a ball pivot joint. So, it is trivial to adjust the light direction on the fly. Move the light up when you hit the fireroad, and move it down when you get into the singletrack. Easy and efficient.<br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7LKCwiiiUKN-5CQJf207n5-2npME5SRRrFpsK_CevAJoJ9DrhIrB_0htGBq3Ag46k_xIxCc_gBmjYTDadnhbPwGPs6lWHUYGHE712ABQcsjql1n1mqBCJ41D5LrpQQmmpvnqTnGtqumBZ/s1600/image.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7LKCwiiiUKN-5CQJf207n5-2npME5SRRrFpsK_CevAJoJ9DrhIrB_0htGBq3Ag46k_xIxCc_gBmjYTDadnhbPwGPs6lWHUYGHE712ABQcsjql1n1mqBCJ41D5LrpQQmmpvnqTnGtqumBZ/s320/image.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Diablo mounted - ready for action</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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On the bars we have been running the Reflex MX1 - with a whooping 2200 lumens, and with heaps of awesome technologies this really is an industry leading light.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMBu-k9bFzgMBXrhLBzU0rwmx9zrrp55JCGYPmgsGZDxxrpFj-OmxmvbdRdo0JeFgKpdHDG2aNL24BxvUfEAzFCbeFwxdTtdmiCnJr1QUL3hjFcxJ4TEr0Qs9ytpf8dHf974gFNYnabHha/s1600/IMG_1507.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMBu-k9bFzgMBXrhLBzU0rwmx9zrrp55JCGYPmgsGZDxxrpFj-OmxmvbdRdo0JeFgKpdHDG2aNL24BxvUfEAzFCbeFwxdTtdmiCnJr1QUL3hjFcxJ4TEr0Qs9ytpf8dHf974gFNYnabHha/s320/IMG_1507.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Reflex MX1 comes in around 290 grams, and makes for the perfect MTB bar light.<br />
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Like the Diablo, the Reflex uses the OMS system - and in this case there are 11 pre-canned configurations to choose from. In the default configuration, you will get at least 2 hours at 2200 lumens. I say at least because the first few configurations use the new "Reflex" technology which automatically adjusts the lumen output based on the terrain!<br />
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When you are climbing the light turns down, and when you speed up the light turns up! And yes, this does work just as it sounds!<br />
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So, then how do you know how much burn time you have left? Well, on the back of the Reflex is a big LED display which shows you exactly how many minutes you have left! How sweet is that!!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXZK0wIDp9y2cIXY6q3REyXY1-96CsIC1WScsvXqnPwDxc7ImYGS7cHeYvRKhLOI11pMFwhY0LoLfqGDyxZB8mjlgx5RwYFi8ScJ6HLD-0Czu-CBgstM0E_JtXoxVbLsOSYEI8ibWvopqF/s1600/image_2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXZK0wIDp9y2cIXY6q3REyXY1-96CsIC1WScsvXqnPwDxc7ImYGS7cHeYvRKhLOI11pMFwhY0LoLfqGDyxZB8mjlgx5RwYFi8ScJ6HLD-0Czu-CBgstM0E_JtXoxVbLsOSYEI8ibWvopqF/s320/image_2.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Burn time remaining - over 3 hours!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
No more gambling on whether or not you can squeeze in one more lap or not.<br />
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This has become my go-to light for any mid-week MTB riding. I don't even bother with a helmet light, as the Reflex is so bright and puts out such a good light spread that it is all you need for training night rides. Even in single track, this bar light alone is great.<br />
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On race day in the longer races I'd probably run the triple cell piggy back strapped to the top tube. This will double the Reflex's burn time - so at full burn you will get 4 hours - which matches up nicely with the Diablo.<br />
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Like the Diablo, the Reflex is easy to get on/off the bar mount. It uses a little pull-pin to release the light from the mount, and then you just slide the new light in. Just remember to keep this little pull-pin clean of dirt and stick a little chain lube on the pin to keep it moving easily.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwCCYfltDIbRUwDc0wpOPrbRMLyh0kWJGh2X3P5uqyDGdUwPtdvNvGRJkJ47ddd07tpVRQ_Zp3rE7sBe6BhyphenhyphenQmYI0XcjnXhYgwx40yiTJwyLoRt17Rmr1uCql6n6bGkEWoJoEAOurVE2dn/s1600/image_3.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwCCYfltDIbRUwDc0wpOPrbRMLyh0kWJGh2X3P5uqyDGdUwPtdvNvGRJkJ47ddd07tpVRQ_Zp3rE7sBe6BhyphenhyphenQmYI0XcjnXhYgwx40yiTJwyLoRt17Rmr1uCql6n6bGkEWoJoEAOurVE2dn/s320/image_3.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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It is also worth noting that with a supplied adapter you can also run the Diablo and Joystick lights on these mounts, so this is how I run the Diablo or Joysticks on the roadie.<br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibSLsQXNX7CJqlPpohRaAzrNDVEgNMPaFuGtTlyWerj4UXJqetLZAmG-YiBxHfxlVsDcrUTY7EdsbyssYhp4kvJEWzIzJsShEkOYj9VZz-auU95rPcBPOp03AX44dPJfHtXKrMYanBoot9/s1600/IMG_1506.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibSLsQXNX7CJqlPpohRaAzrNDVEgNMPaFuGtTlyWerj4UXJqetLZAmG-YiBxHfxlVsDcrUTY7EdsbyssYhp4kvJEWzIzJsShEkOYj9VZz-auU95rPcBPOp03AX44dPJfHtXKrMYanBoot9/s320/IMG_1506.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Bar mount - 20 grams</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When you are just commuting on the road bike, or hitting up an early morning bunch ride, then check out the little Joystick MK7 - just 86 grams.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkxepbZwauWxgg4ckQ2hOF8PrMzu55ezYB9Qe9ypNwxwu1-Hx5ggYT-XPAAAh67X5sCrXWz_71TsCRcbSp_p6vS_1jLbKFZEapAoLRYSlj7HhqNh1nwVUDe35FJHQi5ssn_ebYTLBtM3uQ/s1600/IMG_1509.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkxepbZwauWxgg4ckQ2hOF8PrMzu55ezYB9Qe9ypNwxwu1-Hx5ggYT-XPAAAh67X5sCrXWz_71TsCRcbSp_p6vS_1jLbKFZEapAoLRYSlj7HhqNh1nwVUDe35FJHQi5ssn_ebYTLBtM3uQ/s320/IMG_1509.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Like the Diablo and Reflex, the Joystick also has OMS - and at full burn you get 400 lumens for 2 hours.At the lowest mode you can squeeze out 36 hours!<br />
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I have left this light on at full burn for over 5 hours and it still produces light! This is the < 5% kicking in and the light reverting to the lowest mode. Pretty impressive.<br />
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Stick this light on the roadie and you get more lumens then many other lights on the market, and at only 86 grams you have not sacrificed anything in weight.<br />
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I run the bar mount upside down, so it is under the bars on the roadie - so in doing this the light is out of the way and you hardly even know it is there.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUTBdn4TV_ySR4sxOFT-dRo6h6eo4B9FaLwkg8zcKVtt-FZDiTxiDS1cYQqN6reDoBZ_DHe0CTcr0OBpn6dtolmvfQ73v9o-7qYuypn3bwLi-2hWxBC829xr1kPlEWyXCoTCbdwFN4SotM/s1600/image_1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUTBdn4TV_ySR4sxOFT-dRo6h6eo4B9FaLwkg8zcKVtt-FZDiTxiDS1cYQqN6reDoBZ_DHe0CTcr0OBpn6dtolmvfQ73v9o-7qYuypn3bwLi-2hWxBC829xr1kPlEWyXCoTCbdwFN4SotM/s320/image_1.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Joystick mounted under the bars</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
So, all up these lights are really impressive - packed with great technologies, easy to use and produce great quality light. It goes without saying, that when you run these lights without any piggybacks the lack of cables is fantastic. I really hate cables, and it makes it so simple to clip in a light and head out for a ride - no need for strapping in extra batteries and weight.<br />
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For the commuters and roadies out there - I'd suggest going for either the Joystick or Diablo on your bars.<br />
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For the serious mtb racer - Go for the Diablo + Reflex combo. If you are just racing team based night laps, or XCO night races you can get away without any extra batteries / piggybacks. For the enduro / solo riders stock up on the piggybacks and probably run 2 sets of lights.<br />
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There are heaps of other great features and technologies in these lights - which you should check out the Exposure Lights web site for - such as powering your Garmin off the light, or re-charging your light off your PC/Laptops USB port, or the smart chargers that show an indicator light on whether the battery is charged or not ... very cool stuff!<br />
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<br />Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09393949701801852456noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236829067676292384.post-58805238743915987272013-06-03T16:53:00.002+10:002013-06-03T17:02:25.016+10:00Catching up<br />
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It's been a busy few months and I've missed writing up a few races ... so here is a summary of the last few months of racing ...</div>
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After the Solo Nationals 6x6 it was off to Woodend Victoria for the <b>Wombat 100km</b>. Having never raced down there before I had no idea what to expect. I was lucky enough to get a hotel room at the event center, which was literally 50m from the start line! </div>
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The race started out with around 10km of fireroad. Having no idea when the singletrack would start, I moved to the front to set the pace and hopefully give me a little more time to react once we did reach the singletrack.</div>
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Soon enough we were into it, and it did not take too long for the lead bunch to break apart. Little did I know we were in for around 50km of singletrack!</div>
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Falling off the pace in the unknown single and moto track, I was left on my own. </div>
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At the 50km mark, I was caught by Sammy Chancellor and a few others, and they now set the pace through the next sections of singletrack. Again I was off the pace. It was not until around the 70km mark when we hit more fireroads that I started to feel good. Catching sight of Andrew Fellows up the road at the 75km mark I hit the gas. </div>
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Pretty soon, I caught sight of the main chase group! I got across to these guys and did what I could to try and break this group up before the finish. Again, not knowing where exactly the finish was was a problem, but I knew it has to be soon so I kept pushing.</div>
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Soon enough it was Shaun Lewis, Sammy C, myself and a few others sprinting for the line.</div>
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In the end, it was 6th for me.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="213" src="http://icannondale.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/wombat.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Up front in the Wombat 100km</td></tr>
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Next up it was off to <b>Tathra</b> for their local 100km race. This venue has some of the best singletrack in the country, and is well worth a visit.</div>
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James and I had a race plan, which of course did not go to plan. Up front with us was fellow Canberra rider Lewis Cressy - who was riding strong as ever. With the three of us still together at the 50km point, we knew that the 2nd 50km was all singletrack - and no one was going to get away. This did not stop Cressy from launching a few attacks, but we reeled him in each time.</div>
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Heading into the final few kms, I was giving JD the reminder to get his sprinting legs on. Since I had led the boys and set the pace for pretty much 90km of the race I was smoked, and all I could do was set him up for a sprint with Lewis. </div>
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The final corner came, I pulled out of the way and off they went. Lewis got the little gap and that was it. 2nd for JD and 3rd for me. Disappointing, but an awesome day of riding.</div>
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Next up it was off to the <b>Convict 100km</b> outside of Sydney.</div>
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Just prior to race start, some deals were made with Team Specialized - with the idea being that Andrew and Shaun Lewis (aka 'Wombat') would do an early breakaway. Reading between the lines, Blair wanted to get Wombat a head start to get over the climb early.</div>
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Within the first 100 meters of the race, the attacks started. At first the bunch was quick to shutdown the attacks, but on about the 4th attack it all came together. Wombat, myself, Brendon Johnson ('Trekie'), and Mike Blewitt launched a strong attack and got the gap. Meanwhile, James, Andy Blair and Cannondale stagiaire Anthony Shippard got to the front of the bunch and controlled the pace.</div>
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This was a perfect example of team tactics at play in an XCM - something we are likely to see a lot more of!</div>
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Up front, I attacked the climb with Trekie, and got a good gap over the others in the lead group and without any hesitation pushed on to see how long the gap could be maintained.</div>
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We stayed off the front until around the 45km mark. This is the part of the course where it is really rocky and technical. Unfortunately, due to some mechanical issues, I only had 2 working gears at this point and was unable to hang onto the back of the chase group.</div>
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Over the next 55km, I picked up a few riders who had burnt too many matches early, and finished up crossing the line in 5th place.</div>
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Meanwhile, James was out climbing Anthony, and finished the last 20km solo. James and Shippard finished up in 6th and 7th place respectively - a great result for Cannondale Australia!</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaa5YD5Er8AW8X06bmNW3QduGp05F606_v8kWZzuqiJRMRC2kVBDIvrwFgKtIpkcGe2jjzGOFQr3FarMgZXX0GGYVA_1Rcx69uSHdSNs9YdSXjpOBbMmcR6wxOj1W1JnPr9EugByyVObo/s1600/web-CGAA0001.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaa5YD5Er8AW8X06bmNW3QduGp05F606_v8kWZzuqiJRMRC2kVBDIvrwFgKtIpkcGe2jjzGOFQr3FarMgZXX0GGYVA_1Rcx69uSHdSNs9YdSXjpOBbMmcR6wxOj1W1JnPr9EugByyVObo/s320/web-CGAA0001.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Over the climb with Trekie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breakaway group</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Canoe bridge</td></tr>
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With the race calendar opened up slightly, the last minute decision was made to head up to the <b>Ingerreke Commerical stage race in Alice Springs</b>. This stage race is of an XCO stage race format, so 7 short stages over 5 days.</div>
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The last time I raced an XCO was maybe 2 years ago at a local corc clubbie - this was going to hurt!</div>
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Our race plans were dashed early when the flight out of Canberra could not land in Sydney due to fog, and we took an 7 hour detour via Melbourne! In the end, we missed our connecting flight to Alice and therefore missed the first day of racing.</div>
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Despite being out of GC contention, and out of the overall results, JD and I decided to hit each stage hard and just aim for good individual stage results.</div>
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The first real stage for us to hit was the 49km race from Telegraph Point into Alice. We had time to scope most of this route out the previous day, so we had a plan for attack. I attacked early, and got away with Rockstar Racing Kyle Ward. Knowing some of the sandy river crossings to come gave a distinct advantage, as there was no way the main group would make it through these without losing time. </div>
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We managed to stay off the front for the first 25km, before being picked up by the chase group lead by Andy Blair.</div>
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The course was great fun - there is some really amazing singletrack out there, and nothing like what we have around Canberra.</div>
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I finished up in 5th place, and JD 6th - both crossing the line in just over 2 hours.</div>
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It was then off to the pool for relaxation and eating :)</div>
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The next day's stage was the Queen stage - 90km of fireroad back to Alice. On paper, this would perfect for me. Long, flat, fast. Wanting to keep the pace high, and not give anyone a rest, I set the pace early and stayed up near the front to keep it driving along. The lead group was quickly whittled down to about 7 riders.</div>
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<span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">With 10km to go, some blistering attacks were made by Andy Blair, and by the 'Wombat fence scurry' maneuver. This was going to be a big 3-way sprint finish ... until we lost the course! Course marking sabotage, or just poor course marking meant we lost the course and spent the next 20 minutes making phone calls and finding our way back to the finish line. We were not the only ones, as we picked up various other bunches on the way who also lost their way.</span></div>
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In the end, they gave us some random results - a frustrating end to an otherwise great day of racing.</div>
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The next day of racing was split into 2 x 23km races. The first being done in the morning as an individual time trial, and the latter being done under lights in a mass start. As with the theme for the week, we got the short straw and were pretty well first off in the ITT. The problem was that it had rained a lot over night and the course was sticky and soggy. In the end, our times would be 5 minutes behind the leaders who went out a few hours later in the day - when the course was bedded in and dry. Lucky we were not in the GC!</div>
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The night race made up for this - in one word, it was awesome! I had the new Exposure lights cranked up to full-ball, and got away with the lead group of 5. </div>
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The course was amazing under lights - rocky step ups, fast single track and crazy rocky descents. </div>
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In the end, I finished 5th (and I need to work on my sprint finishes), and James 11th. James had some chain drop issues and was reminded all the benefits of XX1.</div>
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The final stage was short 40km back out to Telegraph point. The pace was exceptionally fast, and in the technical singletrack it was only a matter of time until the front bunch broke apart. We were both in the first chase group, and largely stayed together for most of the stage.</div>
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Nearing the last few km, it was time to lose our passenger - I attacked at the top of the final climb, and nailed the technical descent. The advantage of the 29er Scalpel in these conditions was evident. Meanwhile, James relied on his sprinting legs to get the passenger before the line. In the end, it was Andrew 5th again and James 7th.</div>
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Overall, the ICME is a fun race - the tracks are great fun and well built. I'd love it if they were just a little longer stages ... riding less then 2 hours a day was a struggle for me :)<br />
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For more reports on the ICME check out <a href="http://cyclingtips.com.au/2013/05/ingkerreke-commercial-mountain-bike-enduro-alice-springs/">http://cyclingtips.com.au/2013/05/ingkerreke-commercial-mountain-bike-enduro-alice-springs/</a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the many fences in the 90km stage</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Someone has to set the pace around here ...</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hill climb TT - ouch</td></tr>
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Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09393949701801852456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236829067676292384.post-32220269535260695962013-04-01T10:56:00.000+11:002013-04-01T10:56:14.148+11:00National 24hr Solo - 6x6<a href="http://solo24hour.com.au/" target="_blank">National 24hr Solo - 6x6</a><br />
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<b>1st - Open 6x6 - 18 laps ~ 230km ~ 5400 vert m</b><br />
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Results at <a href="http://www.durt.com.au/">http://www.durt.com.au</a><br />
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Easter long weekend in Canberra ... some think easter bunny time, but I know this better at 24hr solo nats time ...<br />
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I'd made the decision early in the year to not solo this one. With Robyn overseas I did not have my much relied on support crew, and with a busy race schedule following easter I did not want to fry myself early.<br />
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Even though I had got this decision firmly into my head, and coach Fenner was fully on-board with this plan, with the final days ticking by leading into this race I must admit I was pretty torn and the thought of jumping back into the solo pool at the last minute did cross my mind many times.<br />
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From a solo perspective, this was always going to be one of the most epic 24 solo races since 2010 Worlds. <a href="http://www.jasonenglish.com.au/" target="_blank">Jason English</a> was still recovering from his Croc Trophy injuries, <a href="http://edridesbikes.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Ed McDonald</a> was (is in) top form - showing his hand at the RTE 100 miler earlier in the year. <br />
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Then we have wild card Scotty Chancellor, who again has some top form even without big miles under his belt. Ed and I have both done some recent training rides with Scotty, and to say Scotty has some power in his legs is an under statement. He can drop Ed and I like a stone out on the roadie. Scotty has also had some impressive 100km results at both the RTE 100km and Capital Punishment.<br />
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Another wild card for the race was the return of Ash Hayat. I'd spoken with Ash earlier in the year, and was excited to hear he would be returning for a shot at Wembo Worlds, and he would be racing Easter as prep. Ash had schooled me a few years back at an Easter 24 - lapping me in the final 6 hours, as I was a dribbling mess and he was still riding through the morning strong as ever.<br />
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Yet another wild card for the mix was young Callum McNamara. Although Callum does not yet have the same solo experience as Ed, Scotty and Ash - he has definitely stepped it up in the last 6 months - and give him another 6 months he may well be another contender for Wembo Worlds. He just needs to lose those Explorer socks ... <br />
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Oh yeah, and I suppose I should mention the one other guy who can never be over looked in a Solo - the Big Beard Bellchambers. Even with his one gear he puts most other solo riders to shame, and making a tough course just brings out an even tougher and more determined Brett.<br />
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Jase McAvoy and I got the opportunity to set the course. We were both keen to set a course which was very different to the years gone by. This was going to be a course worthy of a National title, a course designed to challenge the top riders. Our starting point was to draw a big line through the traditional Stromlo red lap (trunk climb), and then to draw a line through the standard blue lap return. With those gone, what do we have left to work with ... ?<br />
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We knew we wanted the Blue Tongue and Little Seymour sections - their rocky, off camber and slightly techie sections would provide a great challenge - especially through the night. The various rock roll-overs would reward the more adventurous rider. <br />
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We also wanted to make sure the course had a big climb in it - as preparation for Wembo. We originally proposed the start of the Worlds 2010 climb, linked into Andy Blair's 2012 XCM National climb. However, this caused a bit of controversy and the shops must have been running low on some cans of HTFU - so the compromise was a shorter but slightly steeper fireroad climb through Pork Barrel and into Skyline.<br />
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What else did we want - well we wanted to reward riders after the climb with a run down the re-vamped Skyline and Luge, and then give the riders a free-for-all run down the lower section of the downhill track. Although this part of the course had been run in the Scott 24hr, it was highly padded and bunted for safety. For this race though, it was fully open - making for some crazy lines and speed.<br />
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So the stage had been set - a tough course and a top contender list ...<br />
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For me, racing the 6x6 - for those who don't know this, it means we race from midday to 6pm on the Saturday and and then 6am until midday on the Sunday - was a very different experience. Setting up for a 6x6 is just like a normal training weekend for me. I stick 12 gels in my back pocket, lay out a few drink bottles and know that I can pretty much go as hard as I can for 6 hours. I've raced so many 6-8hr events it is a very familiar territory.<br />
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Setting up in the pits, I was pretty chilled out - and it gave me a unique opportunity to see the other side of 24hr racing. I never realized how in the zone all the solo riders actually are, and the tension in the air was unmistakable.<br />
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With the race start, the 6x6 riders start 10 minutes behind the solo men - so I had no idea what was happening up front. Although I think we all knew that it would be Ed & Scotty tearing each other the shreds.<br />
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With the 6x6 start, I just stomped it. I was eager to catch up to the lead guys and see how it was all going to play out. I was happy to have racked up 4 or the top 6 fastest lap times.<br />
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It was interesting seeing how the lead guys were riding ... Jase looked like he was struggling and not looking his usual fluid self, Callum was pushing a little too hard, Scotty was already in the pits tinkering with his bike and Ed was just going way too hard off the front.<br />
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I hit the climb with Ed - I was in my 36T XX1 and easily turning it over, mean while Ed was still in his 38T 2x10 big ring and pulling away from me on the climb! Are you crazy Ed - you have a good gap, don't fry yourself in the first 4 hours! I got back the "I'm feeling great - I'm in control" ... <br />
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As the first 6 hours started drawing to a close, I had one of those on the bike in-decision moments .... Looking at the clock, I could possibly get back through for another lap ... but was this the best thing to do. In decision racked the brain - is it better to do another lap tonight or tomorrow? Will I be faster now then under light in the morning? Geez, I'd like an extra 40 minutes sleep in ... So I pushed hard on the last lap, and made it back under 6 hrs from when the 6x6 gun fired ... BUT I forgot that we actually raced until 6pm - not 6:10. I rolled over the line at 6pm and 10 seconds!<br />
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Oh well - nothing like a 4am wake up call the next morning ...<br />
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Starting back out at 6am (and 10 seconds) on Sunday, it was actually happy with the start time. It meant I got a full lap under full lights - which is great fun. I then got to experience the dawn lap, which is again always well worth while.<br />
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On my 2nd lap of the morning I lapped 2nd place in the 6x6 - good friend Aaron Thompson - and we rode a lap together, tooling around on Skyline and the downhill track. Tommo had his go-pro on, so I look forward to that footage.<br />
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I then went after the other solo riders to see how they were fairing from the night ...<br />
<br />
First up was Callum - he had slowed right down to hour-ish laps, yet when I came by he was determined to show me how fast he could still ride. Not necessarily the smartest move for a solo rider at 7am :)<br />
<br />
Next up was Ash - he is a man of very few words in the morning - I think I got a grunt back.<br />
<br />
The Big Beard was churning it out still - he was a big more chatty, although he also used quite a few more expletives to describe his night and current state of mind.<br />
<br />
Then it was Ed - over night Ed had fallen back to about 9 minutes behind Jase, and in the morning would get within 1.5 minutes! When I found Ed he was still looking strong on the bike, and despite being in one of his philosophical moods he was going well. I think in a solo Ed could probably answer the meaning of life and many of life's over mysteries. Even with a full nights sleep under my belt, he being up all night he was still using big words that I would need a thesaurus to decode.<br />
<br />
By the time I caught up to English, we had time for 1.5 more laps. With a lap and half on Tommo, I decided to keep Jase company for the remainder of the race. Once Ed fell back again, Jase turned the pace right down - although he was wondering if Ed was going to make a final comeback in these last few laps.<br />
<br />
So that was another Easter race done. I really enjoyed the 6x6 format, and it was really interesting for me being able to ride through all the solo riders and see how they were doing.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLEc2Z3RoIJG2WD64O-DhjYNdkMG3c3YmXY1uUIVrwL9I0YRrhG5jIN4-Q3WQH-FIsLVTNQfMhY819ME1ZmwjoxtY6yOQUf_Ly29q7CMautLRwgZwvItdLzY9NLOf5tjMh5fX4oELWp1U/s1600/6x6podium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLEc2Z3RoIJG2WD64O-DhjYNdkMG3c3YmXY1uUIVrwL9I0YRrhG5jIN4-Q3WQH-FIsLVTNQfMhY819ME1ZmwjoxtY6yOQUf_Ly29q7CMautLRwgZwvItdLzY9NLOf5tjMh5fX4oELWp1U/s320/6x6podium.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
A few shout outs and thanks;<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.cannondale.com/" target="_blank">Cannondale Australia</a> - I rode the F29er (hard tail) for the whole race. It was just brilliant to ride. There are not too many 29er hard tails you can ride for 6 hours straight - through every trail condition - and then get back on for another 6 hours. Light, responsive, exceptional handling and forgiving. I ran some Conti's for change - X-King protection on the front and Race King protection on the rear. Great combo for Stromolo ...</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://thecyclery.net.au/" target="_blank">The Cyclery</a> - the new Cannondale-Sugoi Factory Racing marquee was great. It drew heaps of positive comments and attention </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.sram.com/" target="_blank">SRAM</a> - I ran XX1 36T for the whole race. It really is a technological step forward and a race advantage. After the first 6 hours, I chucked on a bit of chain lube and that was it. Good as new. The range of gearing in the 11 speed cassette is all you need, and the advantage of no chain-suck or front chain ring issues is immediately obvious. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.adidas.com/Eyewear/content/" target="_blank">Adidas eyewear</a> - The Evil Eye sunnies did their job - through both the brightness of the day, as well as into the dusk and dawn times. Comfortable and light. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.exposurelights.com/" target="_blank">Exposure lights</a> - I ran the Reflex MX on the bars and the Diablo on the helmet. Heaps of lumens with no external battery packs or messy wires. The Diablo is so light on the helmet you don't even know it is there. The quick release on the Reflex also meant that ditching the lights at sunrise was a quick transition. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.frameskin.com.au/" target="_blank">Frameskin </a>- Kept the frame protected from all the rocks flying around the place, and the trusty framewrap on the rear stay did it's job. With the crank-brothers pedals I find my heal often scuffs the rear stay, and the framewrap protects the frame. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>All those that chucked me a few drink bottles - Superfast Chick (Kylie Webb), Jase McAvoy and Jacki </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://corc.asn.au/" target="_blank">CORC</a> - especially Sarah and Jack - and all the volunteers for putting together and running a smooth race </li>
</ul>
Finally, a shout out to all those riders who finished a tough solo - everyone who finished deserves a huge congratulations.<br />
<br />
See you all at Wembo Worlds ...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09393949701801852456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236829067676292384.post-4793153411329030112013-02-13T19:22:00.000+11:002013-02-13T19:22:30.588+11:00RTE Stromlo 100 miler<a href="http://www.rockytrailentertainment.com/events/100-results.html" target="_blank">Rockytrail Entertainment - Mt Stromlo 100 miler</a><br />
<br />
<i>4th - 100 miler elite men / 7hrs</i><br />
<br />
This was always going to be tough race ... for me this was the 4th race in 4 weekends, and after the great 12hr last weekend I was smoked!<br />
<br />
I dribbled around my midweek training rides, and got out to Stromlo on the Thursday to check out the course. As expected, it was everything brutal you expect from Stromlo!<br />
<br />
The course took in most of the standard trails - including the lower sections around Holdens Creek, a trunk trail / red lap climb, down through the upgraded Pork Barrel, into an exceptionally rough transition to Deep Creek. From there, a standard Blue lap through sharp rocks, tight turns and did I mention lots of rocks ... up Missing Link, and down the upgraded Double Dissolution.<br />
<br />
From there, it was back into the single track, to then climb back up the fireroad to hit Party Line, and then singletrack back to Willo Link. From there, it was back into the climb through very rocky and rutted sections to the new look Skyline all the way to the bottom, before hooking back into Blackberry, Slant-6, Break Out and back to transition.<br />
<br />
Wow - that is a lot of Stromlo, and a solid 1hr : 20 ish lap time.<br />
<br />
Lap times were faster then last year - as the Pork Barrel descent is a lot quicker then taking in Magpie Rock and upper Slickrock.<br />
<br />
So, after dribbling around all week, I dutifully set the alarm for 3:20am on Sunday morning - ouch! Remember, that the 100 milers start at 5am ...<br />
<br />
Stumbling around in the morning, I could not find my no-doz, so I opted for the double caffeine gel on the corn flakes - yummy!<br />
<br />
Packing the car in the dark, I managed to tread in a "Bailey Surprise" - aka a big dog turd, and so had the fun job of shoe cleaning at 3:30 in the morning.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-NKVgGwGvrdSIBL3g1nNITugAib70LrLAtUrUWxoIJJnecf2wn_44VUrTSZu8coIbYgBHNd7oqRGn5gN_pX3M6SYYhrTGBo4t4Cw2ijCjykGUoVIN7BP41303iFYmU0tIfTxZcpInZZE/s1600/photo(7).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-NKVgGwGvrdSIBL3g1nNITugAib70LrLAtUrUWxoIJJnecf2wn_44VUrTSZu8coIbYgBHNd7oqRGn5gN_pX3M6SYYhrTGBo4t4Cw2ijCjykGUoVIN7BP41303iFYmU0tIfTxZcpInZZE/s320/photo(7).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stella and Bailey - aka Little Spud and Big Spud</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I blame Bailey, as we got Bailey as a pup when we lived in Manhattan. He grew up pooping on the streets of NYC, and even now he only poops on concrete or gravel!<br />
<br />
Once cleaned up, we were soon out at Stromlo - hanging out with all the other over-caffeinated miler cyclists. It was great to see the Big Beard (Bellchambers) back on the bike and racing after his nasty stack before the Scott 24hr.<br />
<br />
The race started as expected - Ed setting the pace up the front, and <a href="http://www.jasonenglish.com.au/" target="_blank">English</a> sitting in somewhere behind.<br />
<br />
Ed turned up the pace on the red lap climb - getting very (very very) excited at the gap forming back to the bunch English was in. Cresting the top of the Stromlo climb, Ed continued to turn up the pace and soon was off the front of Callum and I.<br />
<br />
Looking at my heart rate, I knew I was in for a long day. Usually, in a start like this my heart rate would be up around 185bmp - and can be up there for a couple of hours. I was lucky to see it above 165bmp! Oh crap ... I really am tired.<br />
<br />
Callum rolled by as we crested the hill, only to stack on the next corner! He went down pretty hard, and would later have 9 stitches in his leg. Kudos that he kept riding for the rest of the race and getting back on after that!<br />
<br />
For me, I then held a small gap to Callum and English for the next 3 laps - I knew they were never far behind, but I just kept chugging along.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixjQmm5o0pc0Mh5_sJYOT35839AcdDc1WgZSoWShEyMgvYxF2ysPuMb-tAo8qxflLa46firCZ7Xamxd4BHS2lIYA6Pi63MiX0HWVdw45wAdNKuIkh6qeDB0AcWeJmgRnqIxj3ezF7Dc58/s1600/rte100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixjQmm5o0pc0Mh5_sJYOT35839AcdDc1WgZSoWShEyMgvYxF2ysPuMb-tAo8qxflLa46firCZ7Xamxd4BHS2lIYA6Pi63MiX0HWVdw45wAdNKuIkh6qeDB0AcWeJmgRnqIxj3ezF7Dc58/s320/rte100.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.theberm.com.au/photo/img-1649-edited-1?context=album&albumId=4490839%3AAlbum%3A112827" target="_blank">Scalpel railing a berm</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Heading out on my 2nd or 3rd lap, just as the climb started I came up behind a slow rider. I called my usual "hey, can I get by" ... silence. I wait for a little bit and ask again ... silence. Hmmmm ... top of my voice "hey!!!". The guy grumbles something about he can't hear me because he has his head phones in. I use some expletives to explain where he can stick his head phones, and the let me by. <br />
<br />
I get back a bunch of expletives and something along the lines of "what do you think your doing, racing or something ??". The guy then looked around and saw my race number plate ... #fail<br />
<br />
The 4th lap was marked by English, Callum and I all coming together and then being stuck in the traffic heading up the climb. It was pretty bad - lines of riders walking and stopping, falling off. It was a slow ascent.<br />
<br />
I felt bad for English, as as this point in the race he could usually churn out a few quick laps and catch back up to who ever is off the front. But the traffic made this pretty impossible.<br />
<br />
We all transitioned together for the 5th lap, but by now I had little in the tank. Where usually I could still hold a 155+ bmp heart rate, I was crawling along at 130 or below! Needless to say, both Callum and English got by and I resolved myself to just getting through this lap and accepted defeat.<br />
<br />
In the end, Ed finished 14 minutes ahead of me (very similar to last year), <a href="http://www.jasonenglish.com.au/" target="_blank">English</a> churned out a fast lap and was 8 minutes up. Callum faded and only scraped in 30 secs in front of me.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC8uSruOTW1BC4uvlXxBj0AhOSQoVFdjYERQ_xeoVrBZ6ExvfIxDFoNBWxEqvCvnrhKN8zFodM9l5PJGxgU3_EmVq4eX0g_Np8IwO0ssisvUhdIpk-VufVntPX7OQL-Rs7r2hrvPYEHog/s1600/8460625608_60c12637b0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC8uSruOTW1BC4uvlXxBj0AhOSQoVFdjYERQ_xeoVrBZ6ExvfIxDFoNBWxEqvCvnrhKN8zFodM9l5PJGxgU3_EmVq4eX0g_Np8IwO0ssisvUhdIpk-VufVntPX7OQL-Rs7r2hrvPYEHog/s320/8460625608_60c12637b0.jpg" width="320" /> </a></td><td style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/zeppidy/8460625608/sizes/m/in/photostream/" target="_blank">Working through the traffic</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
So after a long day out, on a brutal course it was <a href="http://edridesbikes.wordpress.com/2013/02/11/rocky-trail-100-miler/" target="_blank">Ed</a> who smashed the 7hr mark and deserves a huge congratulations for not just having a super race, but also in backing up from the weekend before and for getting one over English - no small feat.<br />
<br />
Callum also showed he has stepped up, and I hope he can build on his new form.<br />
<br />
Well done to fellow Cannondale-Sugoi rider <a href="http://pin-it-you-muppet.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">James Downing</a> - 4th in a stacked 100km field. Of course a big congratulations to a fellow Cyclery and Frameskin rider Shaun Lewis for taking out the 100km win.<br />
<br />
For me - I'm off to bed :)<br />
<br />
A big special thanks to;<br />
<ul>
<li>Robyn for coming out early and supporting me (and so many others) - brilliant job as always </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://superfastchick.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">Kylie Webb</a> for the extra bottles and encouragement, and for all the cheers with Andy Blair at the top of the hill - Andy was right - I just need to go faster!! </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.cannondale.com/" target="_blank">Cannondale</a> - the Scalpel was still a weapon for Stromlo. A pleasure to ride </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.frameskin.com.au/" target="_blank">Frameskin</a> - keeping the bike protected from all the Stromlo rocks </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://thecyclery.net.au/" target="_blank">The Cyclery</a> - for keeping Cannondale-Sugoi riders riding </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Martin and Julie-Anne for putting on another great <a href="http://www.rockytrailentertainment.com/" target="_blank">Rockytrail Entertainment</a> race </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.sram.com/" target="_blank">SRAM</a> - XX was flawless for the whole race - and can't wait for XX1 going on my bike real soon</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09393949701801852456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236829067676292384.post-9459243071622249342013-02-06T18:19:00.001+11:002013-02-06T18:19:47.952+11:00Gravity 12hr<a href="http://www.gravity12hour.com/" target="_blank">Gravity 12hr</a><br />
<br />
<i><b>1st - Solo - 12hrs:40ish</b></i><br />
<br />
<i><b>~ 250km / 3800 vert m</b></i><br />
<br />
Following from the Audax roadie ride in Bright last weekend, Robyn and I decided to hang out in Bright for the week, and prepare for the Gravity 12hr.<br />
<br />
After racing this event last year, I knew what I would be in for - solid climbs, flowing singletrack, power oriented fireroads and a heap of fun!<br />
<br />
The course is perfect for an enduro. The course follows the river up stream through to the local dirt crit track. A quick lap of this, and then it off into some singletrack over old river bed rock.<br />
<br />
This singletrack is great fun, as the rocks are quite smooth and slippery, and they are always moving around. I did a practice lap earlier in the week after some rain, and I had some interesting moments slipping around on these rocks and logs!<br />
<br />
Once out of the river rocks, there is a longish fireroad into a climb. This section is great to get the power down and really accelerate away.<br />
<br />
The climb itself is reasonably gentle. I ended up making it through the whole race and never used the little chain ring on the front (2x10). I was thinking that next year I'll run XX1 here.<br />
<br />
The climb went up a bit higher then last year, and into the pine forest singletrack. Despite my badgering of the event organisers to take up higher into the forest, we dropped back into "Gorilla Warfare" - a classic pine forest flowing descent.<br />
<br />
About 5km later, the course leaves the pine forest and drops back down to the river, where we get another fast fireroad and suspension bridge into the final 3km of pinchy and tight singletrack.<br />
<br />
The race starts with the only crappy part of the event - a running start to the bikes. I have no problem riding for 12 hrs, but a 300m run kills me!<br />
<br />
By the time I got on my bike and into the rider train I was about 20 bikes back from the front. Not knowing where Ed McDonald was, I took every opportunity to start moving forward.<br />
<br />
I'd seen Ed out of the corner of my eye in the run, so I was pretty sure he was in front of me. So, with that in mind I pushed really hard to get to the front.<br />
<br />
About half way into the lap, I came across what appeared to be the front group - but no Ed. Hmmmm - knowing Ed, he could be off the front of this lead group. So I kept pushing.<br />
<br />
Coming through transition, I heard I was in 2nd place. Was that 2nd solo or 2nd overall? Better put the head down and find out!<br />
<br />
Another quick lap later, I came through and was told I was now in 1st place overall - nice - always good to be sticking it to the teams!<br />
<br />
I ended up staying in 1st and 2nd place for the first few hours, and figured I may as well keep up the pace.<br />
<br />
Around the 5 or 6 hr mark, I had a little lull in pace and Robyn let me know that Ed was within 3 minutes of me. Bugger.<br />
<br />
Oddly enough, after the 6hr mark I started to feel good again and was able to pick back up the pace. A few hours on and that 3 minutes gap was back over 10!<br />
<br />
Coming in around the 11hr mark, I asked Robyn if Ed was going to go out for a last lap. I figured we were both up to 50 min laps, so he would come through with a minute to spare. Next lap I learned Ed was done, and I thought sweet - this will be my last lap too then :) ... however, coming in at 11:50ish, Robyn (and JD via phone) quilted me into one more lap. So, off I went :)<br />
<br />
The bike of choice for this race was my new 2013 Cannondale F29er Ultimate (29er hard tail). It was perfect for this race. The bike only weighs around 8.5kg, which is very handy on the climbs and getting over the various pinches on track.<br />
<br />
The 29er wheels just roll over everything, and I really did not feel too beaten up after the race.<br />
<br />
Tires were my trusty Schwalbe Racing Ralph Snakeskins.<br />
<br />
Nutrition wise it was quite simple - 24 x clif gels, 1 x clif shot bloc and 12 bottles of electrolyte drink.<br />
<br />
A big thanks to;<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Robyn for looking after me and keeping me moving </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Cannondale Australia - the F29er is awesome </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>SRAM Australia - SRAM XX group set worked flawlessly, and I'll be definitely going for the XX1 at this course next time</li>
<li> </li>
<li>Frameskin - With heaps of rocks and dirt flying around on track, I was very happy to have the new bike all frameskinned up! </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Finishline Events - Iain, Russ, Clayton and all the volunteers who make this event happen - one of the best races in the enduro calendar </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The Cyclery - the place to go to get Cannondale bikes!</li>
</ul>
<br />
<iframe frameborder="0" height="548" src="http://connect.garmin.com:80/activity/embed/270207845" width="465"></iframe> <br />
<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On track at Gravity</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">... and I'd also like to thank ...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWM1mLACGbS33dbsgfNyELTdM5efD_e7sK60KPVMchCVj3_Fc_8BMoT2eAaPvctx32SIjGPcaJFhBYTFzmUVg7_LcToJQzmt_XbEt_J4sf0ZxDGn8qfbuuU9BywrsDHOh0wPSpcL5treQ/s1600/photo(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWM1mLACGbS33dbsgfNyELTdM5efD_e7sK60KPVMchCVj3_Fc_8BMoT2eAaPvctx32SIjGPcaJFhBYTFzmUVg7_LcToJQzmt_XbEt_J4sf0ZxDGn8qfbuuU9BywrsDHOh0wPSpcL5treQ/s320/photo(5).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robyn with it all under control</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8rJZJ5AqsQRESmw-arh-bdjcheJ0ockCuImllu4ooLCjagdLSZ75edDWgeI6uaKxtCbvraK0jI3ykswIeeej4YFSoCAnMDYCSnzdpLaDjnzLV9QCIY4-yz8SFMans4tbf3Qwauv4Tbjc/s1600/photo(6).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8rJZJ5AqsQRESmw-arh-bdjcheJ0ockCuImllu4ooLCjagdLSZ75edDWgeI6uaKxtCbvraK0jI3ykswIeeej4YFSoCAnMDYCSnzdpLaDjnzLV9QCIY4-yz8SFMans4tbf3Qwauv4Tbjc/s320/photo(6).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No pressure!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRwlFVuqFIHOc8Beox-gGJ9rH7kJl-R4f67zxFJdwOjntpsY0Mz5mMZkP98TnG1hgvxZFJYuI3tXs2KMVWEaRkqPH-2IQwQW0nr-qqNhyphenhyphenkxidy_OzhMWQNoBXcVtaRxJzqDCxRpAaj-nM/s1600/duo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRwlFVuqFIHOc8Beox-gGJ9rH7kJl-R4f67zxFJdwOjntpsY0Mz5mMZkP98TnG1hgvxZFJYuI3tXs2KMVWEaRkqPH-2IQwQW0nr-qqNhyphenhyphenkxidy_OzhMWQNoBXcVtaRxJzqDCxRpAaj-nM/s320/duo.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not gravity - Duo Classic - but a cool photo!</td></tr>
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Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09393949701801852456noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236829067676292384.post-40112764540582973152013-01-28T15:55:00.002+11:002013-01-28T15:55:21.034+11:00Alpine Classic - ACE250<b><a href="https://www.alpineclassic.com.au/" target="_blank">Alpine Classic</a> - ACE250 </b><br />
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<i>250km / 4700 vert m / 8hrs : 30ish</i><br />
<br />
With the 2013 race season approaching, the Alpine Classic is a great way to get in some solid base miles. Based out of Bright, VIC and the weekend before the Gravity 12hr, the ACE250 is one to add to the training calendar.<br />
<br />
Usually, the ACE250 heads over Mt Hotham, down to Omeo, back over Falls Creek and then back to Bright, however with the bush fires in the region the course had to be modified. The new course was simple - 3 repeats of Bright to the top of Mt Buffalo.<br />
<br />
Although 2500 riders were originally entered, a large number of riders pulled out - baulking at the idea of doing repeats. Given that many of my enduro races are lap based, I had no issues in doing the same lap multiple times. It actually worked out really well, as you could set your little milestones on the way and you knew exactly where were you were and how far you had to go each lap.<br />
<br />
With so many riders all on the same loop, it also meant there were always riders around for a chat - and more importantly, always someone to work with on the flats and descents!<br />
<br />
The 2nd wave of 250km riders left Bright at 06:19am - along side the 200km riders. Riding off with Aaron Thompson, Tommo jumped straight into the Audux spirit. He went straight past the huge train of cyclists and chased down the lead group. Once at the front of the group, he went off the front again - as he had noticed another small bunch up the road a little more.<br />
<br />
As we caught and passed this front bunch, Tommo kept the foot on the gas and off the front we went. The small front bunch jumped on, and it was my turn to take up the pace setting - for the next 30km!<br />
<br />
We kept a fast pace across the rolling flats to the base of Buffalo, and pushed hard into the start of the climb. Soon enough, the lead group was down to just 5 riders - with very little talking going on!<br />
<br />
The climb went by quickly, and the cool morning air was refreshing. The 5% gradient was perfect for keeping the power down.<br />
<br />
As we got within the last few km of the top plateu, one of the riders in the group dropped the hammer and rode off the front. I was feeling a bit bummed about this, but soon enough we reached the 200km rider turn around and this front rider and all the others turned off! Lazy!! So it was just me continuing up the final climb to the top turn around point.<br />
<br />
The descent was wicked - a solid 20 minutes of on the drops weaving in and out of corners and riders.<br />
<br />
Looping through Bright and back to the climb I took it a lot easier and settled into an enjoyable pace. The climb was rewarded with a big Power Cookie at the top - so good!<br />
<br />
The 2nd descent was going well, and then ZOOM - a pair of Italian riders went by at warp speed. That looks like fun, so I jumped on the back. Holy crap they were quick. Sure, I know I am not a super strong roadie descender - but there was no way I was going to let these two get away. By the time we hit the bottom of the mountain I think my heart rate was higher then any point of the climb! It also did not help the heart rate that we were punching 400w out of the corners on the descent! <br />
<br />
The 3rd lap was slower again, with the final part of climb a bit of a grovel fest. It was a relief to hit the descent for the final time.<br />
<br />
Heading back into Bright I was able to work with another 250km rider - except he had started at the 4am start! We finished off the flats into Bright pretty quickly, and soon enough I was rolling back up the road to my apartment and crashing out on the couch :)<br />
<br />
A top day out on the bike and a great alternate course ... oh, and I did not have to wear an ichy fluro yellow vest either!<br />
<br />
So what bike do you need for an Audux ride? The Cannondale Supersix Evo of course! It might not be the traditional Audux bike, but it sure gets the job done - and there was a lot of guys and girls eyeing off the super light 'dale.<br />
<br />
As for nutrition, 16 x Clif Bar gels and a Power Cookie was all that was needed, along with 6 or 7 bottles of water with electrolyte.<br />
<br />
This was my first ride back with my SRAM Quarq power meter too - and for the power weenies, this was a 480 TSS ride - and that first ascent was 60m @ 320w / 90m @ 308w - not bad for a lazy training ride!<br />
<br />
So, now it's time to eat some ice cream in Bright, and hang out for the week awaiting the Gravity 12hr next Saturday :)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Half way up</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">06:19 am start</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nice views</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top of Buffalo</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Selfie starting 3rd lap</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top of Buffalo</td></tr>
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Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09393949701801852456noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236829067676292384.post-36214335565950202092012-11-29T15:46:00.001+11:002012-11-29T15:49:25.304+11:00STM - Round 6 - Awaba 8hr<i>SRAM Singletrack Mind 8hr - Round 6 - Awaba</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>2nd - Solo</i><br />
<br />
It is that time of the year already! Time for the final round of the 2013 STM series. It really does not feel that a year has passed since we were racing a muddy Awaba in 2012.<br />
<br />
Before I get into any other writing, I'd just like to say thank you and acknowledge a few people ...<br />
<br />
A huge thank you to all my support crew who have got me through each of these races. So a big thanks to Robyn, Anne and Kylie. You girls are awesome, not only have you looked after Jase, Garry, Ed, myself and who knows who else, but also raced competitively yourselves. Thank you all so much.<br />
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I'd also like to send out a big thank you to Joe and Fi for running another great year of STM races. These events are great fun, well organised and I love being a part of them.<br />
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Apologies to Joe for talking with Blewitt through his race briefing - I blame the copious amounts of caffeine which had just been consumed ... :)<br />
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A big thank you to the other regular riders who make these races what they are. If you are going to race for 8hrs, it is great knowing that you have good competition and good friends out on course. So thanks to Ed, Tommo, and Tupac for helping keep these events as genuine races.<br />
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Finally, a big thank you to all the Radical Lights Factory Racing sponsors. Radical Lights, VIE13 Kustom Clothing, Schwalbe tires, Cannondale bikes etc. Your sponsorship and assistance has been invaluable.<br />
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Now, back to the regular broadcast ...<br />
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So, Awaba for 8hrs in 30C+ heat ...<br />
<br />
Heading into this final round, I was in a tricky place points wise. In order to win the series outright, I would need to win the round and Ed would have to place 3rd or below. hmmm - that would be tricky.<br />
<br />
I started asking around the few guys I know who could be capable of beating Ed - Tupac was out, English had his busted collar bone, and Sam C is on holidays. Bugger that is pretty much everyone. So I then tried to convince XCM rider James Downing to man-up for an 8hr mission, but he too would be out after frying himself at the Fling.<br />
<br />
Pretty much the only way I could win the series would be if Ed had a major mechanical, which is not something you want to wish on anyone #karma<br />
<br />
So, the plan for the race was to just ride around with Ed to see where he was at, and just enjoy the awesome Awaba trails.<br />
<br />
Awaba is one of my favourite trails to visit - there is enough climb per lap to suit my climbing legs, the track has heaps of flow and rewards those who can maintain their speed, and there are heaps of great sections with big berms and obstacles.<br />
<br />
The race start was down on the access fireroad - straight into a steep little climb. I struggled to get traction on the loose surface - cursing my laziness for not changing my rear tire after the Scott.<br />
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Ed got into the singletrack about 3 wheels in front of me. Both Ed and I slowly moved through the wheels in front of us. Ironically, when we hit the camel back climb, neither of us would give up the big ring and I was able to get past 5 or 6 riders!<br />
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Shame on these team based riders getting overtaken by solo riders on the opening lap :)<br />
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After the climb, there was only one wheel between Ed and I, and once we came through transition they peeled off and I was back up with Ed.<br />
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After the next 5 hours we pretty much stuck together and traded the lead a few times - it really just depended who was slower in transition.<br />
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Andrew Lloyd managed to catch back up to our wheels for a lap or two, but he could not hold on up the camel back climb. Although we could see him trying real hard to get back on, that would be the last we saw of him for the day. <br />
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Pretty soon we noticed the heat building. We would find out after the race that on track it got to over 51C. #crazyness<br />
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Having raced in these sort of temps a few times now, I knew the importance of getting in lots of fluid. I made the decision to take a little longer in the transitions to take in extra water and pour water over my head. I was also drinking close to 2L / hour.<br />
<br />
Ed capitalised on this, and opted for continuing his rolling transitions.<br />
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This was certainly a risky move on his behalf. He had already lost a bunch of bottles on track, and was down on his fluid intake. I figured it would be a gamble as to whether or not he could pull off staying out in front without taking in more fluid.<br />
<br />
I continued on, keeping an eye on how far in front Ed was. Around the 7 hour mark I had a really crappy lap - probably just the heat taking it's toll. But I struggled through, and some fresh water helped.<br />
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Heading out around 7hrs:25mins Marathon MTB rider Mike Blewitt was just in front. So, keen to have a chat I jumped onto his wheel. Mike was "a little blown" from having down a "double lap" earlier in the day, but strangely I did not feel sorry for him ... :) Mike set a great pace, and I pretended he was not driving me into the ground.<br />
<br />
Cracking out a faster then expected lap meant that I came into transition with a minute to spare. hmmmm #decisions. The girls were telling me to finish up, as 3rd and 4th place riders (Lloyd and Tommo) had pulled the pin ages ago and were 2 laps down. But, being stubborn I snuck out for one more run.<br />
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Not my fastest Awaba lap, and probably my slowest lap at the end of an 8 hour all year, but it was good to finish off on the same number of laps as Ed.<br />
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I must say I felt pretty rubbish by the end - but not unexpected in that sort of heat.<br />
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So, finishing 2nd on the day and 2nd in the series is not too shabby.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvK86aylHDXXBzqlQfpZuPfH78h5yM0B2PSzm1s-AI-v-FzkVT85Eiq7R2Waer1BZbqVjDX_xM7W9feT8TUYt37l631O-3O_zCATKozI5ZYJz3R472xQpNb21KOyc_yjWcep65zB48CK4/s1600/series.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvK86aylHDXXBzqlQfpZuPfH78h5yM0B2PSzm1s-AI-v-FzkVT85Eiq7R2Waer1BZbqVjDX_xM7W9feT8TUYt37l631O-3O_zCATKozI5ZYJz3R472xQpNb21KOyc_yjWcep65zB48CK4/s320/series.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2013 Solo Series Winners - Ed, Andrew & Tommo</td></tr>
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All up for this year, I have racked up over 220 race hours across 23 races (not including local club events)! So, with that volume of racing I am pretty happy to still finish up so close to Ed in this series.<br />
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This was also my last ride for Radical Lights Factory Racing ... although I am still finalising everything for next year, I hear that the team kits will be greener on the other side ... :)<br />
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What's next for me? Just because I am a sucker for 50C heat, I will be sneaking up to the Jet Black 24hr and doing the 6x6. Then it will be some nice summer training rides through Dec and into Jan.<br />
<br />
Jan is looking good, with the Bec Henderson 50km race in Canberra, the ACE 250km roadie ride around Hotham & Falls Creek, and probably a visit to the Tour Down Under.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pokie rides a Cannondale!</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpW5F-04WaEvicTeRW9j8gDnTQ9De42s8ZhU6mQ9_-KOuSRSRFyV3MdoneChqlrFEApe8zaN1lzVCncoCCVE2cZSm97MLqpYbOQQ8lLHxYQ7CbVA2L52ESBkxr3Io38-d8-aYvhFdCc3Q/s1600/DBPAWA011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpW5F-04WaEvicTeRW9j8gDnTQ9De42s8ZhU6mQ9_-KOuSRSRFyV3MdoneChqlrFEApe8zaN1lzVCncoCCVE2cZSm97MLqpYbOQQ8lLHxYQ7CbVA2L52ESBkxr3Io38-d8-aYvhFdCc3Q/s200/DBPAWA011.jpg" width="133" /></a><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At least I got an #adequate number plate</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN7r5EvnNv-ohyphenhyphenWYLBdZ8RwUSvLZCT82mn_MQa8GsgreUAJmtWaUkuzDowxTjDrp7YvP8LSm-Hl8o6rjd27dLxnMPLHuCuot-w3pzvmllBk-WRvvet5-Re81F5sE0P-OZjnd9mZAPDepM/s1600/DBPAWA273.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN7r5EvnNv-ohyphenhyphenWYLBdZ8RwUSvLZCT82mn_MQa8GsgreUAJmtWaUkuzDowxTjDrp7YvP8LSm-Hl8o6rjd27dLxnMPLHuCuot-w3pzvmllBk-WRvvet5-Re81F5sE0P-OZjnd9mZAPDepM/s200/DBPAWA273.jpg" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking a little sweaty</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXEW0Y0cS916IVh7Jn-A07Dl3hYe_BU8kln6x8F5iWF9AEEABMYe2NCN-gJ5qPg3PvpK39qpAhUbRod1T2evMvZl2qEBzFAIgaJIZRDXciG85NFTSu1IPYEs2tRlcy-1Wls9Ig25GcKFU/s1600/DBPAWA293.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXEW0Y0cS916IVh7Jn-A07Dl3hYe_BU8kln6x8F5iWF9AEEABMYe2NCN-gJ5qPg3PvpK39qpAhUbRod1T2evMvZl2qEBzFAIgaJIZRDXciG85NFTSu1IPYEs2tRlcy-1Wls9Ig25GcKFU/s200/DBPAWA293.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Too much excitement for one day</td></tr>
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<br />Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09393949701801852456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236829067676292384.post-40885352754444262282012-11-12T18:44:00.000+11:002012-11-12T18:44:59.049+11:00Highland Fling - 100km<b><i>Elite Full Fling</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><a href="http://www.onlineresults.com.au/Results/highland_fling_2012/full_fling_-_elite_male.TGAPCU.htm">13th - 04:43:47</a></i></b><br />
<br />
I was talking to a guy at CORC Dirt Crits on Thurday, and he was telling me that one of the things he really likes to read in our blogs is how much the elite riders hurt. He likes hearing that we are in the pain cave too out there.<br />
<br />
So, lets start this post with a couple of pictures from <a href="http://superfastchick.blogspot.com.au/">Kylie Webb</a> which sum up my 2012 Highland Fling ...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFaa6MhJiCohSiyh6wRTaIODfspEmMh-cvR1fVj-HlL7Ex45ngNsktml6qGSl5zDEjH_DLc-51rutglhtF3Uif-R_oRZRy5EUrW1AIc01GUb6rC8DUgkjJr15ub47QFkE959M6cyz-o1M/s1600/20121111_070306.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFaa6MhJiCohSiyh6wRTaIODfspEmMh-cvR1fVj-HlL7Ex45ngNsktml6qGSl5zDEjH_DLc-51rutglhtF3Uif-R_oRZRy5EUrW1AIc01GUb6rC8DUgkjJr15ub47QFkE959M6cyz-o1M/s320/20121111_070306.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pre-race banter with JD & Kylie</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfQSrbZmHvgFlwmYRghzs4f2pigcca7oWbc8Nz9cxS49c-fTYa-zVsj62JcwannFiaOHzhGcr38XjhGVqLBJWlQU7s7aWc7rvKvBSfWaYDsJyN9NQIL9iv-4H87aRL13z1h-JDxJ6E4cs/s1600/20121111_125150.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfQSrbZmHvgFlwmYRghzs4f2pigcca7oWbc8Nz9cxS49c-fTYa-zVsj62JcwannFiaOHzhGcr38XjhGVqLBJWlQU7s7aWc7rvKvBSfWaYDsJyN9NQIL9iv-4H87aRL13z1h-JDxJ6E4cs/s320/20121111_125150.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#broken</td></tr>
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I think that post race pic sums up my Fling ...<br />
<br />
For the last two years I have taken on the 100 miler category, the first time taking a 30 minute wrong turn and then last year having a great ride up against English and Fellows. This year however, I'd decided to go for the final round of points in the Real Insurance XCM series. <br />
<br />
Heading into this final round, I was in 6th place in the series, but with the fling carrying bonus points and some of the big hitters coming into this last race I knew it would be a tall order to keep that place.<br />
<br />
Aside from the incredible elite field, this race was also a gamble for me because it was just four weeks after the Scott 24hr. Every 24hr solo is different, and every solo recovery is different. So far I have worked out that for me it is four - six weeks before my power numbers are back to pre-solo. And then usually you get some nice super compensation from the solo, and you are flying again putting out personal bests!<br />
<br />
So, lining up with the countries best elite XCM riders with less then 100% legs was going to be interesting.<br />
<br />
I'd also managed to catch a tummy bug during the week, which was great for weight loss, but no so good for race prep :)<br />
<br />
One advantage of the XCM was the 08:05am start time. That is much nicer! I quick roll up the road with JD, some smack talk with Kylie and soon enough we were on the start line.<br />
<br />
The start saw the usual jostling for position as we ascended the first road. With a left hander onto the dirt, followed by fireroad into the farmland everyone wanted to be close to the front. We hit the farm land very fast and the run down into the first gully was quick.<br />
<br />
Already coming out of this gully I could feel that my legs were not all there. I managed to dribble on the back of the pack as it climbed out. As we headed over the rolling paddocks, I realized I was behind a few wheels of riders I did not know. This (I have learnt the hard way) is not ideal ... because ... they usually drop wheels.<br />
<br />
Sure enough with the high pace being set from the guys up the front, the end of the bunch was crumbling. With the dribble coming out of my nose and mouth I fought hard to get back to the bunch each time a wheel got dropped, but after about the fourth time I just could not quite get there.<br />
<br />
Coming out of the 2nd water crossing I got back to within a bike length, but just did not have the power to get back on. This is where the post 24hr really bites.<br />
<br />
I started my solo race. Nothing new for me, so I just set as best pace as a could. Gordo and a couple of other 50km riders came through, and I managed to sit on them for a little while - but again, my legs were just not there and I had to let them go too.<br />
<br />
Coming into the first transition area I had lost over 2 minutes on the lead group.<br />
<br />
I swapped over some bottles, grabbed some more food and headed to the entry to the 2nd stage. Ideally, you should wait until the very last moment to cross the line - but as I was waiting there the Marathon MTB boys of Justin Morris and Graeme Arnott came through. Split second decision time - do I wait out my remaining 1.5 minutes, or do I jump on the tail of these guys ....<b style="background-color: #eeeeee; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14px;"></b><br />
<br />
I opted for the jumping on the train, as I figured this would help push me along. This worked out well initially, and we flew into Wingello and through the first section of singletrack.<br />
<br />
As we headed into the second section of singletrack, I ended up at the back of our mini pack (maybe four or five riders), and as we started wading through the traffic I began playing the yo-yo game of pinning it to get back on after an overtake.<br />
<br />
We hit the "Wall", something I had been looking forward too, and the dufus Bernard Beer rider put a foot down, and fell into Graeme, who fell in front of me. Ah crap!! Walking the rest of the Wall is so not #PRO.<br />
<br />
By the time we finished climbing out of this section and onto the next main fireroad, I'd lost contact with those guys.<br />
<br />
Up until now, my heart rate had been in the XCM zone - which for me is 170 - 185bmp. But now, I found I was struggling to get it up out of my "chugger" heart rate range of 155bmp. I have done 12 hr races with an average HR of 155bpm ... so at just 50km into an XCM this was not a good sign!<br />
<br />
After the 2 hour mark passed I started to feel a bit better, and I chugged along. Around the 65km mark, I caught back the Bernard guy and dropped another elite guy who was getting close.<br />
<br />
Heading through the final transition area, I knew I had to push it hard down the fireroad and through the grass paddocks. Coming up to the last big water crossing, I realized I'd got back to the Morris and Aarnot group - and I was able to push past these guys. Justin was looking a little broken but still had a big smile on his face.<br />
<br />
The last 15 km is a slog through the grinding and pinchy singletrack, and then into the two evil climbs. Over these couple of climbs I caught back another couple of elite riders - thanks to the power of the big dog :)<br />
<br />
Then it was into the slow and crappy last singletrack, which was pretty hammered after all the other riders had gone through. In this slow going track, wading through slower riders, Graeme caught back to my wheel.<br />
<br />
We hit the final few kms of fireroad and traded places. Then it was through the last few km of paddock and I held him off to cross the line in front. However, because of the transition zones timing, he was actually in front for 20 seconds! grrrr ... next time I need to use all the transition time.<br />
<br />
Coming across the line I found JD who had just crossed a few minutes previously. JD got me by 3 1/2 minutes! Curse my legs not letting me hang onto the bunch at the start.<br />
<br />
So, the finish line photos says it all - pretty broken, and not my best day of XCM racing. But that is racing.<br />
<br />
Food and drink for the day was 9 gels and 1.5 clif shot bloks, and 4 bottles of electrolyte drink.<br />
<br />
I only took in around 350mg of caffeine, which is a little low for me. I think next time I should hit the caffeine a little more. This would probably also help kick start my heart rate too.<br />
<br />
The bike of choice was my Cannondale Flash 29er. Even though there is no ideal bike for this course, I think the hard tail 29er is the closest ideal bike you will find for the Fling. The bigger tires help roll over all the bumpy farm land, and the higher clearance is also an advantage for riding through the deep water crossings.<br />
<br />
Tires were the ever-reliable Schwalbe Racing Ralph Snakeskins.<br />
<br />
Big congratulations to Kylie Webb, 3rd on the day but this was enough for her to walk away with the overall series winner for the half XCM womens category.<br />
<br />
Congratulations to Garry for an easy Super-Masters win, and overall Super-Masters XCM series winner, and Jase McAvoy for his overall win in the Masters XCM.<br />
<br />
Well done to Ed McDonald for taking out the miler win - for his next trick, he will astound us all by getting his new white jersey back to being white! :)<br />
<br />
Well done also to Kylie McAvoy and Anne for their 50km ride, and for finishing with big smiles!<br />
<br />
Next up it is off to Awaba for the final round of the SRAM Singletrack Mind 8hr series.<br />
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Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09393949701801852456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236829067676292384.post-87895763101148871102012-10-31T20:59:00.001+11:002012-10-31T20:59:49.684+11:00STM - Round 5 - Rydal - 8hr<b>2nd - Open Solo</b><br />
<br />
This weekend was the 5th round of the <a href="http://chocolatefoot.com.au/singletrack-mind-series">SRAM Singletrack Mind Series</a>. The course for this round was the twisty-turney Rydal single track.<br />
<br />
The Rydal course offers around 9km of singletrack, fitted into something like a 2km x 2km square space. Needless to say, to achieve that feat there are a LOT of corners.<br />
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Corners around trees, under trees, over rocks, off-camber, bermed, rutted, grassed, dirt - if you can think of a type of corner, Rydal has 10 of them!<br />
<br />
Going into this race I knew it was going to be a long day on the bike - between still recovering from the Scott 24hr, and having a nasty case of man-flu all week I was not going to be 100%.<br />
<br />
The race started up a little fireroad, and this was enough to string everyone out and let the faster team riders lead us into the singletrack. After the first little section of singletrack there is a 300 m section of slightly uphill fire road, heading up it was a few team riders, Ed and then myself - all closely packed.<br />
<br />
At the last possible moment before heading into the singletrack, Ed did the dirty move of jumping in front of the guy in front of him - interesting. Luckily he did not get the gap in the tight singletrack, and as soon as we hit the 2nd fireroad ot the course I moved back in front of Ed.<br />
<br />
After a few laps, Tommo bridged across from being stuck in the start traffic and so that is how we were for the first 5 hours or so. I set the pace on the front, and occasionally Ed and Tommo traded places.<br />
<br />
It was pretty tight going in the singletrack, and once we started lapping the slower riders it was definitely tricky to get all 3 of us around together.<br />
<br />
At the 5 hr mark I was feeling ok and getting prepared to keep up this pace for another 3 hours, but this is where my luck all changed ...<br />
<br />
Coming through transition, I missed my bottle pickup - meaning I had to stop and grab another bottle. This put me on the back of Ed and Tommo. No real drama there, it was nice to see Ed setting a slower pace and it was a bit of recovery to sit in.<br />
<br />
Coming to the end of the lap, we hit a little uphill grind, and in the process of getting around a slower rider my chain jammed up. Crap!<br />
<br />
I quickly fixed it up, and figured I'd lost 20 - 30 secs which should be easy to make up. I punched it hard through transition and soon came across Tommo but no Ed - ahhh, interesting again - Ed has done the dirtiest roadie trick in the book and launched his attack on my chain suck!!<br />
<br />
So with a Stomach of Anger I gave it everything to bridge back that gap. I could see Ed working hard to stay away, but after about 15 - 20 minutes I'd covered the gap and was just 2 bike lengths behind him.<br />
<br />
But no sooner had I got there when I got a big stick straight through the rear jockey wheels. This took another 30 seconds to clean up, and Ed was off again.<br />
<br />
I started the chase again, but this time both my front and rear derailleurs were stuffed. The chain kept dropping out of the big ring, and the rear slipping. Soon enough I lost the big ring all together and after an hour of problems, stopping and trying to fix this on the road I sucked it up and did a bike swap.<br />
<br />
By now, Ed had a decent gap and there was little point in drilling it to chase him down. So, I rode out the last 2 hours in a pretty easy manner.<br />
<br />
One thing I learnt from this race is to not get sucked into the friendly social side of racing. I'd spent the first 5 hours riding with my mates, helping them get through the traffic, sitting up when ever we went around slower riders to make sure they all got back onto the train. I'd also played nice and not launched any attacks when the others needed to get their own bottles. So, when Ed attacked on my mechanical it was a reminder that I should not be offering those friendly concessions in the future!<br />
<br />
Even though it was not the day I had wanted, it was still a fun day out - and the Rydal course did grow on me as the day progressed. It was a shame the sticks stuffed up my gears, because the 26" Scalpel was an awesome bike for this course.<br />
<br />
A big thanks to;<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><b>Robyn, Kylie and Anne</b> for looking after my bottles and nutrition - and for all their help in packing, unpacking and gear prep</li>
<li><b>Schwalbe </b>for the awesome tires - Rocket Ron on the front and Racing Ralph on the back is a wicked combination</li>
<li><b>Vie13 Kustom Clothing</b> - for the comfy kits</li>
<li><b>Cannondale Australia</b> - the 26" Scalpel and 29er Flash are great bikes - both handling exceptionally well on the tight course</li>
<li><b>Choc Foot</b> crew - for putting on another great event</li>
</ul>
<div>
Well done to <b>Tommo </b>for another podium too!! Must be those new Schwalbe tires working for you :)</div>
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Also, best wishes to young OnTheGo racer <b>James Ross</b> - he had a nasty crash, breaking his collar bone midway through the race. Hope you have a speedy recovery and are back to smash it next year!</div>
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Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09393949701801852456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236829067676292384.post-45508262850084420722012-10-19T07:35:00.002+11:002012-10-19T07:35:12.344+11:00Scott 24hr<a href="http://www.corc24hour.com.au/">Scott 24 hr</a><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">3rd - Open Solo</span></b><br />
<br />
<i><a href="http://www.onlineresults.com.au/Results/scott_24hr_2012.OC1E70.htm">30 laps / 23hrs : 58 minutes</a></i><br />
<br />
This time 12 months ago, I had just finished a terrible solo ride. I was completely broken, I'd injured my knee and had to finish up at the 20hr mark of the race. I said to Robyn - "I am <i><b>never </b></i>doing another solo at Stromlo unless it is Solo Worlds ...."<br />
<br />
My plan for the Scott 24 was to ride it in a pair or a team, and use the Scott as a final build weekend for the Terra Australis stage race. But with Terra being postponed I slowly started to get my mind around manning-up for another Stromlo solo mission. How hard could it be right? Last year I was just being a pansy ...<br />
<br />
Needless to say, it took Robyn by surprise when I asked if she would support me for a solo run at the Scott ... <br />
<br />
The decision to solo the Scott left me with about four (4) weeks to build some more base, and a two (2) week taper. Luckily I was still carrying a lot of base from Trans Alps, the Jet Black 12hr and all the other marathon and enduro races since July.<br />
<br />
Plus in the back on my mind I was thinking the race would just be the usual suspects of English, Ed and Bellchambers.<br />
<br />
As the race got closer the 24hrs of Adrenalin announcement came out, and soon enough UK champ Matt Page was on the entry list. Then the Surf Coast 24hr dropped the 24hr component and Sam Chancellor appeared in the line up. And then in the last week Candian champ Cory Wallace appeared in the start list.<br />
<br />
Oh crap - this is going to be a serious race!<br />
<br />
Riding the course in week before the race, Stromlo was dry and dusty. 28C in the afternoons. Nice!<br />
<br />
Then two (2) days out from the race ... boom ... 60mm of rain, snow on the brindies and more rain predicted.<br />
<br />
This was going to be messy ...<br />
<br />
The race start was quick, but not as crazy as last year. Cory went off the front on the red lap showing his strong climbing legs.<br />
<br />
Soon enough it was Ed who made his way to the front and after another lap or so myself, Sam, Cory and Matt all bridged across. English was playing mechanic with his seat falling off!<br />
<br />
The rain started to come in, and combined with the water already flowing off the mountain the bogs were really starting to form. I hit a banked corner at usual speed, and the whole front wheel disappeared! I went tumbling off into some rocks and left a few skin donations on the hillside.<br />
<br />
The first 6 or 7 hours went pretty quickly, as we all traded places and stuck within a couple of minutes of each other. The first casualty was Ed who carrying a hip injury did not have his head in the race.<br />
<br />
Sam had the lead, and soon enough English came back across. So in the evening it was Sam, English, Page and then me.<br />
<br />
Coming through a transition around the 9hr mark I was told that Sam was out with stomach problems.<br />
<br />
Going into the night the rain really started coming down, making an already muddy track even worse.<br />
<br />
Bog holes just kept growing longer, wider and deeper. It really became choose your own adventure to get through these sections.<br />
<br />
The rain eventually let up, and the cold came in instead. Ah, Stromlo ...<br />
<br />
The night was not too bad, I eagerly awaited 1am when I could hit the caffeine. After two (2) weeks off all caffeine it felt great taking in 200mg! I came through transition ready to get my next round of "most awesome caffeine gels ever to grace this world" and there was no Robyn :( .... noooooo. Luckily it was only a red lap. Hitting the next transition, Robyn was very apologetic and I got my caffeine gels (and some extras for good luck).<br />
<br />
Dawn came and revealed an overcast morning, but at least there was no more rain. Just 5 or 6 hours to go now.<br />
<br />
Through the night Cory had dropped back and was an hour or so behind me, and Matt Page was about 15 minutes in front.<br />
<br />
At about the 3 hour to go mark, I was at the bottom of the red lap when I broke my rear trigger shifter ... ah crap. Luckily it was in the middle of the cassette. Now I'd set myself a personal challenge for the weekend of using the big ring only, and I could not let this spoil my fun. So it was time for a flying single speed lap up the Stromlo climb!<br />
<br />
At the top of the climb, a huffing and puffing guy who had sat in for the ride said something like "wow, that was great - are you in a 4 or a 6 man team?" ... I muttered something about silly solos and how much singlespeeding sucks :)<br />
<br />
With the last few hours to go, I'd done the calculations - one more blue and maybe two more red laps. Matt was still about 15 minutes in front of me, and I had no desire to chase. I rolled my last blue lap, just soaking up the clock time. I did not dawdle enough and came through transition with 2 minutes still on the clock.<br />
<br />
Robyn wanted me to go do one more lap, to finish on the same lap as Jase and Matt - but I was definitely done for the day. Take me to your pizza!<br />
<br />
So, all up that ride was something like 390km and nearly 7000 vert m, and with all the rain, cold, bogs and rocky Stromlo terrain it was definitely up there on the "tough" races list.<br />
<br />
In addition to my big ring personal challenge, the other challenge I set myself was to ride the entire race on gels. No solid foods at all. It actually worked! No sickness, no stomach bloating, no #2 stops ... mission successful. Be warned though - it has taken me all year to get my stomach able to do this, working up to it at all the 8 & 12hr races. I would not try this without building up to it!<br />
<br />
A big thanks to;<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><b>Robyn and Kylie</b> - for being awesome support crew. Robyn spent most of my laps washing bikes and did a fantastic job of tracking all my food, drink, caffeine, electrolytes and light batteries</li>
<li><b>Cycling Sports Group / Cannondale</b> - for making sure I had two great Scalpels to race, and they even hooked me up with a spare lefty fork in case of emergency. The 26" dualy bike should not be dead - just ride a 26" Scalpel at Stromlo and you will see just how amazing these bikes are</li>
<li><b>RLC Sports</b> - thanks Aiden for quickly getting me last minute parts</li>
<li><b>BikeBox / Schwalbe</b> - for hooking us up with the perfect tires for Stromlo - Snakeskin Rocket Ron for the front, and Snakeskin Racing Ralph on the rear</li>
<li><b>Radical Lights</b> - for the super bright lights that kept me going through the night. It always entertains me when a rider 50m up the track pulls over because they think you are right on top of them</li>
<li><b>Vie13 </b>- for the comfortable clothing and winter gear that got me through the cold night</li>
<li><b>Russ and CORC</b> - for putting on another great race</li>
<li><b>Matt Page & Cory Wallace</b> - for coming all the way out to Australia - we look forward to seeing you guys next year</li>
</ul>
Also, well done to Radical Lights Factory team mates Garry James and Jase McAvoy for taking out the pairs category.<br />
<br />
A few weeks rest now, and then it will be back into it with the next round of the SRAM Singletrack Mind 8hr series at Rydal. <br />
<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cory holding up Matt on the podium</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">English, always lurking close by</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOuevfXcFOZvXk-7Txs4WO_Ms79jwIivLbS2LhoOz8OwK2TFCeIF1O6Gnz_VeFjcvhiHKDBfyYri-5i0PlHUpze3Bx_ANijP-h_v12fLL_vQZZFTZq1Y0V2KeKA7l5sa5AB88c-qVHWuU/s1600/sportograf-34255058_lowres.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOuevfXcFOZvXk-7Txs4WO_Ms79jwIivLbS2LhoOz8OwK2TFCeIF1O6Gnz_VeFjcvhiHKDBfyYri-5i0PlHUpze3Bx_ANijP-h_v12fLL_vQZZFTZq1Y0V2KeKA7l5sa5AB88c-qVHWuU/s320/sportograf-34255058_lowres.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smile!!</td></tr>
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<br />Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09393949701801852456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236829067676292384.post-52244936330428371372012-09-17T16:54:00.003+10:002012-09-19T12:04:55.629+10:00STM Round 4 - Welby - 8hr<a href="http://chocolatefoot.com.au/singletrack-mind-series">SRAM Singletrack Mind Round 4 - Welby - 8hr</a><br />
<br />
<b><i>1st Elite Solo</i></b><br />
<br />
Heading into my 5th race in 6 weekends I was feeling a little smoked. Added to which, I had jumped back into the base building miles this week after a solid VO2 block post Europe.<br />
<br />
For those in the power world, it was a 1000 TSS week with an 8 point CTL jump - so going into an 8 hour race was going to hurt!<br />
<br />
I'd spoken with my main nemesis rider Ed McDonald during the week, and it sounded like he would not be making it to Welby. He had a nasty slack at Backyamma the weekend before, and was under strict physio instructions to rest up. #bugger<br />
<br />
Even without Ed, there is of course Mark Tupac Tupalski - and if he had had his Wheaties during the week he would definitely be a contender.<br />
<br />
McAvoy, Robyn and I snuck up to Welby for a recky on the Saturday afternoon. Finishing the loop, it was something very different to what we usually ride and race on.<br />
<br />
It was mostly loose sandy soil over hard pack, or over moving rocks. About 3km of pretty new track was in place, evidenced by the talcum powder layer of dirt over who knows what! The track had a few reasonably techie sections, a bunch of pinch climbs and a little bit of flowing single track towards to end.<br />
<br />
Probably the closest track I could match this course against is Mt Annan. Welby was like a more natural Mt Annan style course. Tight corners, pinch climbs and some rough techy stuff.<br />
<br />
This was definitely going to be a tough course to do an 8 hour on. I ditched the 29er ht and prepped the 26" Cannondale Scalpel. A dualie would be an advantage on this course, and with a lot of tight and slow corners and switch backs, the more nimble 26" bike would be the better selection.<br />
<br />
Race start was fast paced, with the teams riders taking off. Tupac was off with these boys, and I was left cursing my fried legs as I climbed the start fireroad.<br />
<br />
A few kms into the single track, I came across Tupac. His chain was all mangled and it was looking like his day would be done early. Although, you can never rule out the Tupalski ...<br />
<br />
I started thinking, "sweet ... easy ride today" when I heard a rider come up behind me. I ask he if wants to get by and he says, "nah, am just going to sit here as long as I can ... I am a solo rider too".<br />
<br />
"Yay" ... just what I needed ... not! Being a rude prick, I punched it (well as much as my dead legs would) up a few of the fireroads and on the fast flowing sections, and soon had a gap and lost this rider behind me. Back to the mind set of "sweet ... easy ride today".<br />
<br />
About 2 laps later, he was back! We had a bit more of a chat, and I confirmed that this was indeed Andrew Lloyd sitting in on my wheel. He seemed to be pushing pretty hard, but it was clear he was intent on riding this one fast. The technical parts of the course really suited him.<br />
<br />
Later in the lap, I took a bad corner and dropped my chain. Andrew snuck by and I think he pinned it off the front.<br />
<br />
#whatever I thought ... as long as I beat Tupac today I will be a good position in the overall series points, so I was not too fussed to see Lloyd take off. That said, I was looking at my heart rate and how hard I was going. I was thinking that he was probably going too hard on this course, and it would probably come back to bite him.<br />
<br />
Around the 5 hour mark I got told Lloyd was about 2 minutes up ... oh well, may as well wind it down a bit and take a pee stop. Next lap I was told I was only 40 seconds back. wtf?? That does not make sense.<br />
<br />
That lap I came across a very broken unit. He was well spent.<br />
<br />
For me, I was still feeling pretty good, so I stomped it past Lloyd and decided to take the advantage and put some time into him. In the remaining 2 hours, I put 16 minutes into him!<br />
<br />
I think a lot of riders under estimated how much the Welby course would take out of them. It it definitely a a course to approach with a little extra hesitation.<br />
<br />
In the end, it Andrew Lloyd in 2nd and Aaron Tommo Thompson in 3rd. It was great to see Tommo finding some form again! 2013 World Solo look out ...<br />
<br />
I also took the chance to do a little Peter Sagan "running man" salute. There has been a standing order between JD, Ed and myself that any wins are to be accompanied by the running man ... :)<br />
<br />
In the Gaz vs Jase battle, Garry won the Masters Solo and Jase came in 5th.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, RAKS Racing came in 2nd in the Chicks-3 category. A super effort!<br />
<br />
A big thanks to;<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Robyn, Kylie and Anne for dishing out gels and bottles all day. 16 gels for me today!</li>
<li>Cannondale Australia - the Scalpel is an awesome bike. Lightning fast and comfortable in the long races</li>
<li>Schwalbe (BikeBox) Australia - the snakeskin Rocket Ron + Racing Ralph combinations were perfect in the conditions. And despite seeing a lot of punctures on the loose rocks, the snakeskins held tough</li>
<li>VIE13 - for our great custom kits (check out their new web site <a href="http://www.vie13.com/">www.vie13.com</a> all ready for their Interbike Launch in Vegas)</li>
<li>Radical Lights</li>
<li>All other other team sponsors and supporters!</li>
<li>Fi and Joe from Chocolate Foot for putting on another top event, as well as all the local club volunteers for putting in their time to make this event happen. (I'd still like to kick the course designer in the nuts for a few hours though ... ) :P</li>
</ul>
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Whats next?</div>
<div>
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<div>
Some more base mile building and then the Kowalski Classic 100km in Kowen Forest in a few weeks!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tommo, me and Andrew Lloyd</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chaotic mess of setting up</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh63xsmY2MzWpmJ5f7Alcv7AnD7jZtZluckbQMTBWqD9n72bb1JmETyg2X5WGCDKtE4LJnJfHIgqCss_SZRMz2lvrBvfvs8p4tXlfeNCieGDUHmp2QzMxSQYShntrrP0kd2Pxsp_O_2iik/s1600/photo+%284%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh63xsmY2MzWpmJ5f7Alcv7AnD7jZtZluckbQMTBWqD9n72bb1JmETyg2X5WGCDKtE4LJnJfHIgqCss_SZRMz2lvrBvfvs8p4tXlfeNCieGDUHmp2QzMxSQYShntrrP0kd2Pxsp_O_2iik/s320/photo+%284%29.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gumby and Pokie ... that Pokie is a cool dude<br />
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Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09393949701801852456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236829067676292384.post-27884903690923547312012-09-17T16:09:00.001+10:002012-09-17T16:09:23.208+10:00Backyamma 100kmBackyamma 100km<br />
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4th - Elite 100km - 3hrs: 44 mins<br />
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A bit of a late and quick post about this race.<br />
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Ed, JD and Jase have pretty well summed up this race in their respective blogs;<br />
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* http://edridesbikes.wordpress.com/2012/09/10/revisiting-the-rules-2012-back-yamma-bigfoot/<br />
* http://pin-it-you-muppet.blogspot.com.au/2012/09/back-yamma-bigfoot-2012-event-report.html<br />
* http://www.jasonenglish.com.au/2012-back-yamma-bigfoot-100<br />
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My race can quickly be summarized as;<br />
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* lots of pre-race smack talk<br />
* an entertaining dinner with JD, Superfast chick, Robyn and Jason English - with Jase being disappointed at the choice of Thai until he realized the vast quantities of white rice he could consume<br />
* a fast race start, but I soon had some seat post dramas and had to stop and tinker with it 3 times :(<br />
* Ed bins it following a dodgy JD line<br />
* drilled myself to get back onto the bunch<br />
* Bellchambers taught me a few more swear words and sledges containing word sequences I never would have thought possible<br />
* gave a few sledges to the group on catching them ... and then went straight to the front to help Jeremy Ross keep them honest<br />
* Jeremy and I made sure no one could complain about negative racing :)<br />
* English got the break around the 55km mark - goodbye!<br />
* JD, Jeremy and I set about reducing the passengers - and soon we were down to just the 3 of us<br />
* Deals were done, first children promised away and we were off to the final few kms<br />
* I dropped the bike on a big drift on one of the last corners, and missed out on the sprint finish :(<br />
* Average HR for the 3:44 was 166 bmp ... and I topped out at 191 bmp ... yeeaahhhh<br />
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Well done to <a href="http://superfastchick.blogspot.com.au/">Superfast Chick</a> on winning the 50km chicks race, and RAKS Racing Robyn for coming in 2nd in the 25km chicks!Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09393949701801852456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236829067676292384.post-54605738044877205032012-09-04T07:39:00.003+10:002012-09-04T07:39:54.984+10:00Wollombi Wild Ride - 75km<a href="http://www.wollombiwildride.net/">Wollombi Wild Ride</a><br />
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<a href="http://results.au.eventdirector.net/List.asp?EventID=5161&RaceID=Wild_75">6th Elite</a> - 2hrs:33mins<br />
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This weekend it was off to the outskirts of the Hunter Valley for the 5th round of the <a href="http://www.cyclenation.com.au/">Cyclenation XCM</a> series - the 75km Wollombi Wild Ride.<br /><br />Not too much was known about this race, and as we descended deeper into the country side we soon realized we were in the middle of no-where.<br /><br />We soon found the local pub - which also happened to be the rego center - and got our rego packs.<br /><br />With the course being a mix of public and private roads, we would not be able to recky the exact course ... it also did not help that a big horse was still in the little paddock adjoining the start/finish area - so we would have to bypass that section!<br /><br />We road out to the top of the first KOM point - basically 3 moderate climbs and then a loose soiled steep climb. It was all easily ridable but that loose climb would probably be pretty chaotic.<br /><br />We met up with <a href="http://pin-it-you-muppet.blogspot.com/">James Downing</a> and <a href="http://superfastchick.blogspot.com.au/">Kylie Webb</a> on the way back down, and this gave Garry some time to explore the run down railway cars in a junk lot. Pretty weird ...<br /><br />Riding back on the dirt roads, Kylie was half wheeling and I was keeping pace. Slowly the pace picked up and soon enough I am thinking something is going on, as <a href="http://www.wickedrides.com.au/blog/">Jase</a> is just hanging onto our wheels and Gaz is already off the back. I ask Kylie if she is trying to drop Gaz, cause he is gone. Turns out she thinks I am half wheeling her and visa versa! She should definately be a Bakery Bunch rider!<br /><br />The morning of the race was freezing - literally - we watched the car themomoter hover at 0C. With the start sitting in the cold fog, it was clear it was not going to get warm until the sun could poke through.<br /><br />With just 5 minutes before the start, the sun finally got through and it was a last minute rush for everyone to ditch their jackets, vests and warmers. A big thanks to Mike Blewitt and Kylie Webb for collecting everyone's gear!! I hope you guys find good prices for it all on ebay ... :)<br /><br />The start was pretty random - as we had to walk over the timing mats. The event was using an old-school timing system with ankle bracelets. It looked like we were all on home detection, with the orange things strapped to our legs. <br /><br />Heading straight into a big dirt road, the pace was quick but not crazy and a long peleton of riders spread out. At the first little gradient climb out of the winery Blair and AJ launched a little attack, but the group soon was back together. A few more of these little attacks came on the way to the climbs - but with the flat road it was hard for any of these to have an impact.<br /><br />The climbs broke apart the big peleton, and by the time we got to the top of the loose climb there was a group of around 12 riders. Blair and Trenton had gone off the front on this hill, and that would be the last we saw of them for the day.<br /><br />The Rockstar riders of Fleming and Glennan set the pace, and a sly Jason English was tucked into the back of the bunch.<br /><br />It was frustrating to miss a few of the race arrows and have to turn around, losing vaulable momentum and time.<br /><br />Around the 35-40km mark English started making his way to the front, and on the undulating fireroad he started to apply the pressure. English, Glennan, James Downing and myself started to get a little gap from our group and I thought that we would soon be away - but then we took another wrong turn into a picnic area and this break was lost.<br /><br />About 10 minutes later, English did the same thing but this time I just could not catch JD's wheel. I was stuck in the no-mans land, just off the back of these three, and maybe 15 secs up on the rest of the group. <br /><br />Cursing the VO2 sessions I could still feel in my legs from Thursday, I had to fall back to group. This group was still riding at a good pace, but there were only 2 other riders driving it. It was clear this group was not going to catch those in front.<br /><br />We hit the final 15km of flats, and again there was a general reluctance on the group for anyone to work hard on the front. A sporatic rotating pace line formed, but the pace was definately kept down.<br /><br />Coming to the final rise before the entry back to transition I was on the front, not the best place to be but I wanted to be in control of the pace. Down the rise and ready for the right hand corner into the field, Shaun Lewis and Matt De Pomeroy attacked up my inside, and Justin Morrin around the outside. I immediatly thought "geez, they have left that too late ... someone won't make that corner" and sure enough, Matt and Shaun were soon sliding across the deck in front of me. <br /><br />I snuck through on the right, and held Justin off into the finish chute.<br /><br />So 75km in 2hrs:33mins - the shortest (non clubie) race I have done. Certainly not the best distance and timing for me!<br /><br />Our group finished 1.5 mins down on JD, 3 mins on English & Glennan, and 6 mins down from winner Andy Blair. So, pretty close racing.<br /><br />All up, I am happy with that result. Such a short, roadie style race definately does not suit me.<br /><br />On the gear front, I ran the Enve 29er wheels on my Cannondale Flash. These wheels never dissapoint. They give the confidence to attack any sketchy fireroad descent, and have an amazing ability to hold rolling speed. They are also really strong, I gave them a few good whacks out there but they hold their shape and spokes brilliantly.<br /><br />Riding a course like this, you would want nothing but a 29er hard tail - so the Flash was the best choice. <br /><br />As for the Rotorburn million dollar question of "what tires do you run", it was the good old Schwalbe Racing Ralph Snakeskins which did the job. Even through the little sandy pockets on track these tires had enough bite to keep it upright, and on the flats a low enough rolling resistance to keep pace.<br /><br />Next week it is off to Parkes for the Backyamma 100km - at least this race will be closer to 4 hours of riding!Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09393949701801852456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236829067676292384.post-87691808711283612032012-08-29T17:15:00.000+10:002012-08-29T17:15:16.366+10:00Cannondale Supersix Evo - 1st impressions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Yes I know - I make fun of roadies ... they wear too much white, put funny hats under their helmets, and get upset when they hit bumps on the road ... so it is ironic that I should be posting a quick review of my new road bike!<br />
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Given that most of my training week is spent on the road bike, I thought it about time I updated my "training" bike. Yep - this is the bike to be used for lots of hill repeats, bakery bunch groveling ... and importantly commuter chasing on the way home after a full blown training session else where.<br />
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The weapon of choice is the <a href="http://www.cannondale.com/aus/2012/bikes/road/elite-road/supersix-evo/2012-supersix-evo-team">Cannondale Supersix Evo Team</a> ... a bike worthy of the Cannondale Liquigas team, so it should be up to scratch for my purposes.<br />
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Out of the box, the bike is just outright awesome. Full SRAM Red components, Mavic Cosmic Carbone wheels, lots of FSA K-Force carbon bits, and some FI'ZI:K bits too.<br />
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In true Cannondale style, the SRAM Red components are actually lime green - which coupled with all the other little anodized green bits make for an eye catching bike indeed.<br />
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The only thing I have added to this bike is the new SRAM Quarq Powermeter which fits directly into the native Hollowgram cranks. It simply replaces the default spindle, and off you go. This means that you can still run the awesome Hollowgram cranks, and you have the lightest power meter setup you can get.<br />
<br />
And for those who are wondering, yes, the cranks make a huge difference. Having been playing around with the MTB Quarq on my Cannondale Flash 29er, I had to swap off the Hollowgrams for the MTB Quarq SRAM X0 cranks. Going back to the Hollowgrams, you immediately notice the difference in stiffness and power transfer. Not only are the Hollogram cranks light, but they are super stiff. The SRAM X0 and even to some degree the SRAM RED & XX cranks feel soggy compared to the Holllowgrams.<br />
<br />
On a side note, it was great to see the new Quarq just easily slot in and work out of the box. The numbers it has given for my first ride match well with the Quarq on my old road bike - so that is really exciting. It is always a worry introducing a new power meter, and knowing that the magic numbers might be "apples and oranges" ... so when it gives the right looking magic numbers it is happy times.<br />
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Back to the rest of the bike ...<br />
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After just the first shake down ride, it is immediately apparent how well that rear end flex in the Supersix Evo's works. Canberra roads are pretty crap gravel wise, and I was impressed that I could remain seated in a lot of rough sections and keep pedaling. On other bikes you would need to be lifting your butt off the seat to get through these crap sections.<br />
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The ride is very smooth, and you really can keep the power down through crappy sections of road. <br />
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The stiffness in the cranks and bottom bracket area is noticeable. You can feel a solid power transfer underneath the pedals. This also allows for quick accelerations and being able to really punch out quick climbs.<br />
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The wheels felt smooth and consistent, and despite their profile were quite quiet and unaffected by cross winds. I look forward to really spinning these up on some long flats to see how they go.<br />
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The SRAM Red components (as always) are awesome. Quick, precise shifting - even under load. Quick to tune as well.<br />
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So yeah, that is my initial impressions - a fricken awesome bike!<br />
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Now I just have to wait for the next 3 weekends of MTB races to be over so I can take this puppy out to Bakery Bunch :)<br />
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A big thanks to Al from CSG for getting be hooked up with this bike!<br />
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<br />Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09393949701801852456noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236829067676292384.post-8642956810450720552012-08-20T17:56:00.000+10:002012-08-22T17:13:30.800+10:00STM Rd 3 - 7hr - Nowra<a href="http://www.chocolatefoot.com.au/singletrack-mind-series">Singletrack Mind - Round 3 - 7 hr - Coondoo Road, Nowra</a><br />
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2nd Elite Solo<br />
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<a href="http://chocolatefoot.racetectiming.com/Splits.aspx?RaceId=82&EventId=1&AthleteId=5365">16 laps / 153km / 7 hrs : 24 mins </a><br />
<br />
It was back to the SCUM tracks around Coondoo Rd for the 3rd round of the SRAM Choc Foot / Singletrack Mind series.<br />
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These tracks are well known for their flowing single track, deep sandy corners and the odd log roll over. The first few laps are usually about playing the game of "is that a berm of just a big pile of sand ... am about to find out ... !"<br />
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We had been told there was some new singletrack in the 10km course, but really this was just the result of some dude with a whipper / snipper making a random trail through some long grass. Maybe this will be new singletrack in another few months once it has fully bedded in ... but for the duration of the race it was just (literally) a pain in the arse!<br />
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Going into the race, Ed McDonald (the current series leader) was taking it all very seriously. A taper week leading into the race, and a new bike to break in. Meanwhile, Mark 'Tupac' Tupalski had been putting in some serious training (according to Mark, at least 5 hours / week) and was ready to give Ed a run for the win.<br />
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For me, I was still fully blown from the 12 hour the weekend before. I had groveled / limped through my weeks training schedule and hoped I could hold on to those boys at least long enough to not look embarrassed.<br />
<br />
That said, I was adamant I was not going to get screwed over in the self-seeding chaos this time around. After starting in the draining ditches at both Orange and Kowen, I was going to make sure I was up front. With the help of Gumby organizing the start line, I finally had a good position - and a much better view of the road to come, then the back of some camel back, flat pedals and baggy shorts.<br />
<br />
The teams riders took off, and I jumped in on the back of one of the team's riders. The pace was quick, but not too bad (considering). Tupac was a few wheels up front, and really pushing it. I could hear Ed a few wheels back on me.<br />
<br />
After the first few laps, Ed and I were together and Tupac was about 30 secs up the road. I decided to just sit in on Ed and see what he had today.<br />
<br />
He seemed to be a little slower then usual - or maybe I was just still in tune to riding with English from the weekend before and in "flog my self" mode. Either way, I took an opportunity to jump past him, get a little gap and then jump onto the wheels of one of the fast teams.<br />
<br />
This seemed to be working well, Ed was out of sight behind me and I was being told Tupac was just a little ways up ... and then coming up behind a train of riders at speed, I misjudged their speed (more the point their excessive use of brakes into a corner), and I went flying off into the scrub. In my best Russian gymnast style I did two forward rolls and even managed to be swearing whilst rolling! #skills<br />
<br />
Luckily my bike seemed all ok, but my Garmin was a dribbling mess - yes, literally. The LCD screen was cracked and leaking. RIP Garmin.<br />
<br />
I was soon back up and pushing hard - with no idea of my HR. Oh well, just have to do the "ride so it hurts" routine.<br />
<br />
Later that lap I caught up on Tupac, and for the next few hours we traded the lead and little gaps. <br />
<br />
Mark sensed me back off a little around the 5 hour mark, and he took the opportunity to hit the gas.<br />
<br />
I started to feel good again at 6 hours, and thought I may as well pick up the pace to see if I could catch back to Mark. You never know, he may be suffering up front. I was 3/4 through my 2nd lap of pushing harder (albeit through very thick traffic), and I caught the first sight of Ed since the morning! He was probably 30 - 40 secs back.<br />
<br />
Oh shite ... I have just been frying myself, and now I may have to do another lap with Ed hot on my heels.<br />
<br />
I jumped between team riders - who ever was going the hardest - and secretly hoped that I would come through transition at 6hrs : 59mins and Ed would not make that ... but no, it was 6 hrs : 57 mins - crap crap crap. Now I have to bust myself for another lap!<br />
<br />
I set out with everything I had, and this time the lazy team riders were hanging onto my wheel! Lazy lazy. There was a few anxious moments as we got caught up in the slow single track traffic, and I was constantly looking back over my shoulder.<br />
<br />
Thanks to one of the Jet Racing guys for returning my tow, and giving me a super fast run down the last big fireroad. <br />
<br />
Finally, the last little hill came and I gave everything to get to the top as quick as possible - and with no Ed in sight it was a big relief.<br />
<br />
In the end, Tupac was about 1.5 minutes in front of me, and Ed was a minute back on me.<br />
<br />
#smoked<br />
<br />
That was a really good race - rarely do these races come down to a matter of minutes - let alone to have the top 3 all within 2.5 minutes!<br />
<br />
As with the weekend before, I ran the Cannondale Flash 29er for the fully race. The big wheels are definitely and advantage over the soft sandy soil. They also make the few little rock gardens and rooty sections nothing to think about.<br />
<br />
On the tire front, I had left on a Schwalbe Nobby Nick - thinking there would be bad weather - but it worked out really well for the sandy and loose conditions. The tire had heaps of bite, and a good predictable turn in on both the loose and firmer sections.<br />
<br />
Schwalbe make a 29er version of the Nobby Nick in a Snakeskin (protection) version which is just a few grams more then Racing Ralph version. So, for these conditions it was definitely worth it. I will be pulling this tire out more often I think!<br />
<br />
A big thanks to;<br />
<ul>
<li>Robyn, Kylie & Anne for all the quick transitions and excellent race support. The girls also looked after Garry, Ed, McAvoy and Grantly, whilst also racing themselves in RAKs Racing! Very impressive.</li>
<li>Cannondale AU - nearly 20 race hours in 2 weekends on the Flash 29er - #flawless</li>
<li>Vie13 Kustom Clothing</li>
<li>Radical Lights</li>
<li>Choc Foot and all their sponsors for putting on another well run and great fun event - and for the ever tasty chocy feet!!</li>
<li><a href="http://cycologygear.com/">Cycology </a>for hooking Robyn up with some cool new t-shirts and caps</li>
<li>Well done to Aaron Thompson (Tommo) for also finding some form, and smacking some of the big boys!</li>
</ul>
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<br />Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09393949701801852456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236829067676292384.post-67331586466903159052012-08-14T17:12:00.003+10:002012-08-14T17:12:45.313+10:00Trans Alps 2012<a href="http://www.bike-transalp.de/index.php?id=2&L=1">Trans Alps - 2013 </a><br />
<br />
ok ok to my one avid reader ... so I have been slack in not writing up something about the most amazing race in the calendar year. <br />
<br />
So for 8 days in mid july, myself and Jason McAvoy raced for over 600km and ascended over 21,000 vertical meters. The route took us from Oberammergau, Germany through Austria, Switzerland and eventually into Italy, with the finish in the beautiful lake side town of Riva del Garda.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, Jase got a dose of man-flu at the start of the race, and coupled with the altitude and distances he struggled. Of course, that meant that our pairing was a bit stressed - as Jase was in the box and I was idling and wanting to rip the legs off anyone and everyone.<br />
<br />
Jase has assured me he will speak to me again ... one day :P<br />
<br />
So rather then do my usual write up of events, I'll write up things a little differently ...<br />
<br />
Firstly, this is an amazing race. I would recommend it to anyone (who loves being in the pain box on the bike). With over 1100 riders from all over the world, just making it out of the start chute every morning is an experience. Have you ever wondered how "on your left" is said in German, Italian, French, Swiss, Russian, Portuguese, South African, Korean, Japanese ... you get the point. Chances are by the end of Trans Alps, you will have heard all these versions!<br />
<br />
Each day of the race loosely fitted into the same template. We would "roll" out of some quiet mountain village in a "neutralized" manner for about 5km. Over the PA system, the race would start with announcements in German, Italian and English ... and then they would play AC/DC Highway to Hell. I use the words "roll" and "neutralized" cautiously, as most saturday morning Bakery Bunch gallops are more tame then these starts. Really what the race organizers should have said was that it was a free for all, and just don't over take the pace car (which is doing 50km / h).<br />
<br />
Side walks, drainage systems and anything you could ride over was fair game. Cars parked next to the road would lose their mirrors as the pack went through! <br />
<br />
Assuming you survive the craziness of 1100 riders bumping bars on tight cobble stone streets, you then hit a climb which will be somewhere between 1000 - 1600 vertical meters. The climb will take up 2 hours to ascend. Usually these climbs were on ski resort access roads, or up switch back mountain passes. They were rarely too steep, and a 2x10 granny was fine for grinding up the hills.<br />
<br />
The top of these climbs were usually well over 2000m, with 2800m being the highest point in the race. Altitude aside, it is fricken cold up there and even colder as you make a 30km descent!<br />
<br />
The European's have not grasped the concept of flowing single track. To get you back to groveling up a hill as soon as possible, the descents are either hair raising fireroads - with blind switch back corners over clifs, over loose rock surfaces or the descents are vertical rocky, rooty fall lines - in which your ears pop from the sheer altitude loss over a few km!<br />
<br />
Either way, you very quickly descend. At the start line I had wondered why some many people had 200mm rotors on their XC bikes. I soon found out why ... the descents are so intense, and go for so long that your arms and hands are soggy messes of flesh by the bottom. My brake rotors were scorched black from the intense heat. It was a common sight to see riders pulling to a complete stop on these descents, as their brakes literally boiled and they had to wait for them to cool before continuing!<br />
<br />
So, back to a standard TA day ... so you have made a sketchy descent, and you are now at the bottom of some valley. Chances are that down here it is 20 or 30+ degrees C, where as at the top of the peak you just climbed over it was in the single digits, and possibly raining! A Goretex jacket was a standard item for every rider, and we used them pretty much every day. Arm and knee warmers and under shirts were also needed for most days, at least for some point in the day. Many of the Euro riders took this to the extreme, with Goretex helmet covers, gloves, socks, and even pants. Apparently, the cool kids wear Goretex pants to keep their knicks dry ... I am not convinced. #harden_up<br />
<br />
Once into these valley's there was often a nice 10-20km of flat which could be time-trialed, or on the more cruel days this would be a heap of undulations. Either way, it would take you to the next big climb of the day - usually another monster 1000-1500 vertical meter mountain. Remember that the average is over 3000 vert m / day!<br />
<br />
Most of the towns we passed through had their streets closed down for the race, so there was always heaps of spectators and people cheering. Hop, hop hop, cow bells dinging ... and even dudes running next to us giving out bottles of water!<br />
<br />
Usually when climbing on the road bike, you don't get the chance to feel the sensation of just how quickly you are gaining altitude ... but when you literally go up switch back after switch back, and you look back over your shoulder you can actually get a feeling of vertigo. You realize just how high up 1000 vertical meters is, as the little valley town below becomes smaller and smaller.<br />
<br />
Ascending those distances, you also see the terrain change. You start in lush valleys, with thick trees and shrubs. Soon you are into the higher farm lands, with the cows grazing and lush soil. Then you are above the tree line, with shale rocks and the remnants of old glaciers tumbling around you. Finally, you reach the snow line and it is just fricken cold!<br />
<br />
The day would then finish in another quiet mountain village. Rolling in on the cobblestone streets, lots of spectators on the side of the road cheering - it was always a welcoming feeling.<br />
<br />
Usually these towns would be surrounded by massive 3000m+ monster mountains, and you quickly realized that there would be no easy way out of this town. <br />
<br />
The post race food quickly made up for any crappiness in the day. The food was always put on by the local town, and so there was copious amounts of cheeses, cold meats, panini, chocolate, coke, fruits, etc etc. You could stuff yourself silly before even heading back to the hotel!<br />
<br />
The routine became, finish race, pig out on post race food, find hotel & shower, find pizza (round 1), lie on back to rest stomach from eating, find pizza (round 2), find dessert ... pass out in bed. <br />
<br />
We (wisely) choose to go the hotel route for our race accommodation. The event organizers cater for this really well, and will transport your bags between your nominated hotels each day. The only down side of this was that you had to leave your bag in the hotel foyer by 7am, but with the race not starting until 9am, it meant you had to choose what clothes you kept with you wisely. It also meant sitting down for breakfast in full kit and trying not to leak chamois cream everywhere ....<br />
<br />
The hotels in these small towns were great - usually around 120 euros, with buffet breakfast, internet and staff who would go out of their way to help out. Anyone who freely volunteers to wash my dirty kit after a day of riding in the mud gets bonus points in my book! I got my money's worth in breakfast food eating alone!<br />
<br />
In contrast, those who took on the TA camping option had the pleasure of sleeping on the floor of town halls, gyms or car parks - on thin mats, spaced close together. These guys and girls often got to share one toilet and shower per 200 of their closest carb-loaded euro mates, and the whole place was a massive drying (stink) room of kits freshly "stomped" on in the shower.<br />
<br />
So, some tips for you if you get a chance to do this race;<br />
<br />
* Train for more hills then you can imagine. Then train some more. I thought that doing 15 x Mt Ainslie repeats was an overkill. Next year it will be 15 x Mt Ainslies at least 3 days / week!<br />
* Take a good collection of spare parts - The small towns have limited bike shops, and although there are race mechanics and race support services you are sharing them with 1100 other riders. In particular take;<br />
** Chains - given a few days of bad weather, take at least 2 x spare chains<br />
** Spokes - there were a lot of broken spokes. Ever tried to get an ENVE spoke in AU, let alone from some small shop in an Austrian ski town with an old dude who does not speak any english. Take spare spokes!<br />
** Brake pads - at least 4 spare sets. Given the epic descents, you could fry a set in a day if the weather was bad<br />
** Bottle cages - Both my carbon cages were destroyed from the rough descents.<br />
** Gear cables - Full length cable outers are a must, and if you do them right you should get away without needing to run any new cables. But always safe to have a few spare cables just in case<br />
** Derailleur & hanger - Luckily we did not mash a derailleur, but it would be pretty easy to smash one. That said, I did burn through a lower jockey wheel during the week, so having spare of those is pretty useful<br />
** Tires - not essential. Maxxis were providing support and had a big range of tires, tubes and stans related products.<br />
** Valve extenders - Have you ever tried to get a long valve tube (for you deep dish carbon wheels), from that Austrian dude who does not speak English? McAvoy tried and failed. If you need long valves, carry valve extenders so you can at least use short valve tubes.<br />
* Get to the stage start early - self seeding in your start group commences a good hour before the race start<br />
* Pace yourself - there was quite a number of guys who smashed the first few days, and then were dribbling messes by midweek<br />
* Recovery each day is essential - make sure your post stage priority is to eat, drink and sleep<br />
* Keep your bike well maintained - there is no sag wagon, and you are in the middle of no-where. A mechanical issue could be a huge drama. Check over your bike each day and keep it running well<br />
* Learn a little German ... more then just knowing beer names is helpful<br />
* CO2 cartridges on planes is still a mystery to me. Their web sites say they are ok (if packed well, and 2 per person etc), but the grumpy baggage inspector in Dubai was not happy with them - which at 1am in the morning after a 7 hour flight, and they are delaying your flight to rummage through a bag is not cool<br />
<br />
Finally, some handy tips on being in Europe;<br />
<br />
* Money in most of Europe is the Euro<br />
* Money which they laugh at when you tender it in Switzerland is the Euro<br />
* Places where pizza, pasta and sausage is all dirt cheap and really tasty - Europe<br />
* Places where pizza, pasta and everything is fricken expensive - Switzerland<br />
* All the top riders at the race rode 29er hard tails<br />
* Place where we were told that "29ers are too heavy and have floopy wheels. They are only used by flat landers" - Switzerland (I guess they have no seen the 2013 bike catalogs ...)<br />
* Places where the toll roads are quite expensive - Europe<br />
* Place where the toll roads are crazy expensive - Switzerland<br />
* Place where the Garmin was adamant that we were to drive over a historic pedestrian wooden bridge- Switzerland<br />
* Place where the road signs include speed limits for tanks - Germany (30 kph in case you were wondering)<br />
* A Tupac line is called an Euro line (and they love to take them)<br />
* Putting chamois cream directly onto your team mates butt is the Euro thing to do<br />
* Wearing white knicks on a rainy day is Euro<br />
* Fluro is still quite fashionable in Euro-land<br />
* Standing around with your jersey off, bib / brace off your shoulders and knicks pants pulled up to show off all your massive legs - being Euro<br />
* Having a choice of 6 cheeses and 10 cold meats for breakfast - Euro breakfast <br />
<br />
So will I be going back - hell yeah! I am accepting offers from potential riders to pair up with ... man up JD, that means you!<br />
<br />
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<br />Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09393949701801852456noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236829067676292384.post-41541285151799231242012-08-13T18:19:00.003+10:002012-08-13T18:31:04.104+10:00Jet Black 12hr<br />
<br />
<i>2nd Elite Solo</i><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.rockytrailentertainment.com/pdf2012/12/A39_JB12H_OverallResults.pdf">252km / 12hrs</a><br />
<br />
This weekend it was back to Dargle Farm for the annual Rockytrail Entertainment / Jet Black 12hr.<br />
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Dargle Farm is one of those great hidden venues, which is only opened up once per year.<br />
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The track itself is built around two valleys of farm land, and has a good mixture of singletrack and fireroad - as well as a couple of nasty pinch climbs and little rock gardens to keep you awake at night.<br />
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This year, the track had a few modifications from years gone by, which meant a little more fireroad but did introduce some interesting hidden long grass singletrack.<br />
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With the modifications, the fastest guys would be hitting sub 20 minute laps, and for the solo guys sub 25 min laps were on the cards.<br />
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The race started with the usual team riders taking off like stink, and thank fully Jason English did not immediately jump onto their tail. So the first lap was a pretty cruisy lap with fellow solo riders of English, Bellchambers and Chops (James Lamb).<br />
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Heading to the pinch climb at the start of the 2nd lap, I jumped in front of Chops and stomped it. This was a little pay back to Bellchambers for doing this to us all last year.<br />
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I was able to get a useful gap, and it was until well into the 3rd lap that English came across.<br />
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Despite a solid head wind, I was happy to set the pace for myself and English - and we kept a solid pace for first 5 or so hours. However, when the fast team riders came through I was not able to make the jump onto their tail - and that was English gone.<br />
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I figured that would be the last I would be seeing of Jase for a while, so I settled into steady and consistent laps - with the intent of lapping Bellchambers sooner rather then later.<br />
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I came across Brett a bit before the 9 hour mark (just on dark), and we rode around for a lap together before he sent me on my way.<br />
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I figured I would take it easy for the last 3 hours, and settled into a lower tempo pace to see out the rest of the race.<br />
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The night was welcoming, as riding under lights always adds a new dimension to a race - new lines emerge and it is like riding a new track.<br />
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Finishing a minute or so after the 9pm cut off, I was not too upset not to be taking on another lap - 12 hours was long enough for today.<br />
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For the race, I rode the Cannondale Flash 29er - yes, a 29er hard tail. The course is definitely a 29er course - with the big wheels flying over the bumpy double track / paddocks and also easily rolling over the rock gardens.<br />
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Tires for the day were the Schwalbe Racing Ralph Snakeskins - more then enough grip and fast rolling. <br />
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As always, the Radical Lights were bright and gave awesome definition. I also gave Brett a good scare by turning the lights right down as I came up behind him and then turning them into full brightness ... he has seen the light!<br />
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A big thanks to all the Team Radical Lights sponsors, and also a huge thanks to Robyn for coming up and providing excellent support to myself, Garry and Tommo.<br />
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Well done to Garry on getting 1st in Super Masters, and Tommo for a solid ride also.<br />
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Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09393949701801852456noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236829067676292384.post-4677907680652950772012-03-12T16:52:00.001+11:002012-03-12T17:06:20.443+11:00Armidale 12 hr<i><b>Armidale 12 hr - <a href="https://sites.google.com/site/une12hoursinthepiney/">12 hrs in the Piney</a></b></i><br />
<i><b><br />
</b></i><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>2nd - Solo Male</b></i></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">In planning out the 2012 race calendar, I wanted to race a few more 12hr events. I figure these are great both for base volume training, and for simulating a 24 solo.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">I'd signed up for the Armidale 12hr months ago, and as it worked out the race was great timing to escape a wet and muddy Canberra.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">I was hoping to be able to get a relatively easy race in, but I noticed a few days out the race organizers had upped the solo prize money to $500. Hmmmm - that is the magic number that Jason English will turn up for.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Sure enough, Jase was announced as a late registration - there goes any easy race I had plans for! Jase had just finished the Mountains to Beach stage race, and had a long drive back up. He would definitely not be on his best ... but hey, this is still Jason English!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Tommo (Aaron Thompson - Onya Bike) and I drove up early and were able to get a good look over the course on the Friday. With no mud, and a well built track in the pine forest we could not be happier.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">The track itself is about 11km, and similar to riding on Majura or Kowen. There were two small hills, some super fast flow sections, lots of tree roots, a maze of A and B lines and some wandering cattle to keep you on your toes. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Given the tree roots and that I would be supporting myself for this race, I opted for the Cannondale Scalpel. It flew over the roots and rocks, and railed through the little berms and fast sections on track. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Now that the Scalpel has softened up a little in the rear, it is a truely amazing 26" dualey. It is hard to describe - but the no-pivot setup means you still get great power transfer but still with a nice feeling rear suspension. The flex in the rear stays feels more controlled and solid then a traditional rear shock and pivots. The aggressive head angle and lefty fork also make the bike super responsive - and the result is that the bike is a rocket.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Back to the race ...</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Jase and I were chatting as the gun went off, and the pace was pretty tame as a few teams riders in front of us set the pace. It was probably the laziest race start I have had ... with my heart rate sitting around 140, it is usually 180 - 190! So, when we hit the first A/B line 10 minutes into the race, I jumped down the B line knowing it was actually faster then the A, and popped out in front. Jase of course quickly followed and we set off at our own pace.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">I set the pace for the first 5 hours, with Jase only dropped off once when he had to tighten a cleat. In retrospect I should have attacked here, and make Jase work a bit harder to get back on. But I really wanted to stay with him for a few more hours before any move was made.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Ironically, after that lap I had a slow transition (self supporting and needing to re-stock), and Jase got in front. He upped the pace a few times but I was ok to hang on. Going up one of the pinches I stalled and pulled a foot, and this was all Jase needed to fully launch an attack.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Again, in retrospect I should have eaten the bars and caught him back up - but at the time I was content to keep at my pace and hope he slowed down in the later hours.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">For the next few hours he put 1 - 2 minutes into me per lap, but then slowed right down again and we were again at matching lap times.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">In the last few laps I made up some more time, as Jase had a chain mechanical - but I was not going to bridge the gap.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Tommo came in for 3rd, 2 laps down from Jason and I.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">I'd like to say a big thank you to;</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">* Radical Lights - the Podda Mk3 were brilliant. I had lots of comments on track about their brightness :)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">* Cannondale Australia - the Scalpel is weapon, and with no body soreness the following day it is obviously a comfortable bike for a long days riding</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">* Vie13 - the new team kit was cool and comfortable - top quality fabrics really do make a difference </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">* New England Mountain Bike club - for putting on a well run event</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">* Jason English - for the company and conversation on track - always great to ride with you</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">* Aaron Thompson - for the company on a long drive</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b><br />
</b></i></span><br />
<iframe frameborder="0" height="548" src="http://connect.garmin.com:80/activity/embed/157145451" width="465"></iframe><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcwTmf1VSplZsPjGN-M3H3yDjkMwFE2LMp22wqmmqvAlrxU5f3xOkwShOwRowUYZNNfLA2LKpD7Wuoszs-IAmxkHajZdUxf0WbQdZ7CJIWQ776osPxNOp1tlrqGsEt0D5RRVCuiPPoy2s/s1600/photo(10).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcwTmf1VSplZsPjGN-M3H3yDjkMwFE2LMp22wqmmqvAlrxU5f3xOkwShOwRowUYZNNfLA2LKpD7Wuoszs-IAmxkHajZdUxf0WbQdZ7CJIWQ776osPxNOp1tlrqGsEt0D5RRVCuiPPoy2s/s320/photo(10).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of moving 'A' lines ... and they left lots of sloppy presents on the ground too!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxxjo50UASimCyZAahvjArVW1sh6F4WLQjYnJxt_igNksLGVh9tBqE_lRrYAq1M6jjyCQTizAKaUyjhjGd9SjEqrvfip5QOGDpiiBHZtEaJcn8fiyw1xoTbttlCHQfXnVt8I_3o8Cn4Vk/s1600/photo(9).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxxjo50UASimCyZAahvjArVW1sh6F4WLQjYnJxt_igNksLGVh9tBqE_lRrYAq1M6jjyCQTizAKaUyjhjGd9SjEqrvfip5QOGDpiiBHZtEaJcn8fiyw1xoTbttlCHQfXnVt8I_3o8Cn4Vk/s320/photo(9).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweeping the track! I want this service at all races!<br />
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</tbody></table>Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09393949701801852456noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7236829067676292384.post-45342555050094753312012-02-07T17:54:00.002+11:002012-02-07T17:54:44.601+11:00Gravity 12 hrSee <a href="http://team-radical-lights.com/?p=707">http://team-radical-lights.com/?p=707</a>Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09393949701801852456noreply@blogger.com0