Solo Century - Highlander Prep

No organized century rides on the schedule this month, so I set out on a solo ride to prepare for next month's Highlander Cycle tour. Probably did only half as much climbing as the Highlander but I've found its just as important to prepare mentally to be riding for 6 hours as it is for the legs to be ready.

I did the "usual" Brands route with West Hills loop, then...did it again! Got the hundred miles with, probably 3,500 to 4,000 feet of elevation. Riding time: 5h 40m.

Home a little after noon and broke out the new work stand to clean up the bike. It worked great!



Its a euro-style stand where one wheel is removed and the fork is locked into a quick release and the bottom bracket is supported by a padded cradle. No camera handy today but I'll try to get a photo of it in action one of these days.

North Shore Hill Ride

Did a loop to Jones Beach then stopped off at the LBS for the Saturday group ride. A couple of miles in, Bill came up to me and suggested that a few of us could split off and do a hill ride on the North Shore. It sounded good to me since I need to ride some hills in preparation for next month's Highlander. We checked in with the ride leader, Jamie, and a couple of other riders and so it was set.

At the LIE, we continued North wile the rest of the group continued the usual route East. Lots of turns on this route but mostly we headed up toward Lloyd Harbor and did pieces of the Triangle Ride and the Gold Coast Century. I'm sure I can't remember all the turns but we hit the familiar hills in that area: Stillwell, Snake Hill Rd., Turkey Hill, Avery. We were a strong group of five and stayed together. We had one flat in the group around mile 40 but then continued our strong paceline back to Brands.

Just past Bethpage Park, Bill and I got caught at a traffic light and the three other guys faded into the distance as we were left behind. We hammered and tried to catch them but got stuck at yet another light, so that was it. Back at Brands, the timing was perfect as we arrived just at the same time as the other group that did the usual route. It seems they had a slight mishap with another cyclist but no injuries. Great ride and good to change things up a little.

On the technical front, the fizik Arione saddle still feels great! Also, I ordered a repair stand which I should get today. This should make maintenance a bit easier.

Links to some recent routes

Google maps plot of my ride in Acadia National Park.

Mike's plot of our Sunday hill ride.
My start and end were a little different but from Wantagh Parkway, it was about the same.

Weekend Rides With the Brands Group

Saturday morning a did a quick loop to Jones Beach and a couple of laps of the Tour de Parc circuit in Cedar Creek before heading over to Brands for the Saturday morning group ride. We had a dozen or so riders show up. Jamie distributed cue sheets this time with a new return route. After heading east on the LIE service road, as ususal, we would return via Vanderbilt Ave. and Half Hollow Hills Rd. instead of the LIE south service Rd. A good variation with lots of hills and less traffic.

I was part of a group of four that was off the front of the main group when we got to Vanderbilt. I got dropped after the first couple of hills but the guys waited for me and we kept together until Sweet Hollow Rd. They headed North for another 5 miles through West Hills but I took the more direct route back as I had a 10:00am conference call for work. Still got 53 miles.

After cleaning the bike, I headed to Brands for a few odds and ends: chain lube, degreaser, a new water bottle [thanks Tina]. I also decided to treat myself to a new saddle. After 24,000 miles the old one was looking a bit worse for wear and I had also been wanting to get a true racing saddle. After checking out the selection and talking with Jamie, I settled on a fizik Arione. Not the super lightweight version but definitely more performance oriented than the Specialized B/G that originally came with my bike.

Got an e-mail last night from Mike that a few of they guys were going to meet this morning for another hill ride. I joined Mike, Bob, and James and we headed out on a similar route to yesterday except that we returned on Wolf Hill Rd. instead of Vanderbilt. We also did the West Hills loop twice. A more reasonable pace than yesterday but still some challenging hills. We kept our little group tegether for the whole ride and I ended up with another 50 miles. It turned into a good recovery ride.

Early Birds Sunday Ride

Back on Long Island after a weeks vacation with the family in Maine, around Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park on Mt. Desert Island. I did get a second ride around Acadia's Park Loop Rd. on Friday. It was a wet ride through the morning mist and overnight rain, but I did seem to have the whole park virtually to myself.

Ten hours in the car yesterday to get back home, so I decided to REALLY stretch my legs with a fast EB ride. Out to Manorville for the 7:30am ride start. There was a huge group today, at least 35 riders, I would say. We headed out on the south route and had a very fast pace with a bit of tailwind. At Dune Rd., things started off tentative but soon we were pulling 25+ mph into the headwind. After my pull, someone unleashed a strong acceleration and I had no time to recover. I lost the wheel ahead and two or three of us were off the back. We struggled on ahead and I eventually bridged up to 3 or 4 other small groups. Three of us powered up over the bridge and met up with the lead group at the regrouping stop probably only about 1 minute behind.

We waited up for everyone else then set off again. Just before the deli stop the group split. About ten of us kept going, skipping the deli. A fast-paced 50-mile ride! Except for last Friday's race, I don't think I've dug this deep for months!

Vacation is over, so back to the work grind and the usual ride schedule tomorow!

Acadia National Park

On a family vacation in Bar Harbor, Maine. Got up early for a short ride in Acadia National Park on the beater bike. Did a ride to the Summit of Cadillac Mountain, then a loop of the park on Park Loop Road. Only about 31 miles but lots of climbing.


From the summit of Cadillac Mountain.

Recovery ride a day late

After riding Friday morning and racing Friday night, I figured a moderate paced Brands ride on Saturday morning would be just the ticket for a recovery. NOT!! Most of the usual group was there but once we hit the LIE service road things broke up on the hills. We kept a high pace on the 16 miles of rollers and finally called a truce back at the intersection with Round Swamp Rd., where we waited to get our group back together. We kept an easier pace back to the LBS. A great ride! As usual, it seems to take about 10 miles of riding before the legs get warmed up and start feeling good after a hard ride the day before (or 12 hours before, in this case).

Today, Sunday, I got up early to do a solo ride but as I was having my traditional oatmeal and coffee pre-ride breakfast, lightning, thunder and rain moved in. I took care of some items around the house for an hour or so until it cleared, then went out for 40 miles on the LIE again. Legs really sore today! An hour after I got back home, the thunderstorms started up again and have been going most of the day. So, good timing to get the ride in.

Heading out of state next week for a vacation with the family. Bringing the bike but most likely will just do one or two short, easy rides.

Kreb Friday Night Race Report

I drove out to Riverhead for this evenings Kreb Friday Night Race. I rode the "B" race, which is Cat 4 & 5 riders. After signing in and a few warmup laps, we all took a break to watch the kids races. When they finished, the A, B, and C groups lined up for the staggered start. The B race was 15 laps, which gave us a total of about 28 miles of racing.

I led the group around for most of the first lap. It was mostly status quo until the first prime at six laps to go. I got 3rd or 4th in the sprint for the prime, but the 2nd place rider kept going and I motored up to get on his wheel. Most of the others sprinting for the prime sat up. The two of us had a big gap for one lap. A chase group of three riders bridged up to us and we were a break of five. We hammered away for a lap or two. When I looked back, the rest of our group was nowhere in sight. We all put in some good, strong pulls to make sure the break would succeed.

On the final lap, I ended up in a less-than-ideal situation, taking the final pull to the bottom of the last climb before the finish. As I drifted to the back of the group, Dan opened the sprint with a strong acceleration. I could not respond immediately. Before I could get a couple of breaths, Victor was on his wheel and they two of them gapped the rest of us. They finished one and two, Victor with the win. A fellow East End teammate, Chris nabbed third, ahead of me by a couple of bike lengths. I gave it all I had and crossed the line for fourth.

A satisfying race in that I put in a big effort to make sure the break stayed away, and it did. It may have cost me a top three at the end but if the whole group of twelve made it to the finish together, I think there were a few more strong sprinters who could have finished ahead of me.

On a side note, I met my companion from last week's Brands ride. He raced the A group and got 5th. A great result for him. Will probably do Brands tomorrow morning. Caio!

Short Sunday AM ride, the TdF Enters the Alps

Shortened my early morning ride to 40 miles so I could get back and watch the pros hit the high alps for the first time in this year's Tdf (stage 15). Still, a good fast solo ride this morning along the Brands route. It was really warm out, 76F at 6:00am as I headed up Round Swamp Rd. I was home by 8:00am, fed the dog, brewed a pot of coffee and refeuled with some bacon and eggs.

Watching the tour on Versus now, peloton over the HC climb. Four man break out in front (USA rider Danny Pate in there for team Garmin-Chipotle!!!) but it looks like the real fireworks will be on the final Cat 1 climb.

Brands Ride Takes it Up a Notch!

I thought today might be an easy day, but the Brands ride turned out be a bit of a hammerfest today. I started off with a solo ride to the beach then arrived at the Brands lot to do the usual Saturday group ride. After about a dozen riders assembled, we rolled out at an easy pace as everyone warmed up. Things broke up a little on the long rise up Round Swamp Rd.

On to the LIE service road and it was still together until Dix Hills. Four of us broke away on a short steep climb, then one strong rider pulled us along most of the way to the turnaround point. With four strong riders, we didn't wait for the group and got a good paceline going back into the wind. At the next steep climb, I got away with one other rider and the two of us hammered our way back to Brands for the last 15 or 18 miles. Around the Bethpage golf course, we caught up with some of the original remnants of the starting group so them must have turned back early.

The two of us arrived back at Brands, big smiles and handshakes on a good fast ride. Also impressive was that my ride companion did the Riverhead races lastr night. Can't believe he had that much left in his legs. In summary a hard, fast ride witha grand total of 51 miles. Lots of fun!

Gold Coast Ride Report

Just back from the Gold Coast ride. I ended up with 115 miles as I rode to the start and headed home before the official ride end when the route came back down near Round Swamp Rd. At least I saved a couple of gallons of gas! One of the harder centuries on LI, due to the hills.

After riding to the start at BAE Systems in Greenlawn, I met up with the EB group and we headed out. Perfect riding weather and a challenging route. We kept it all together until the 2nd rest stop where most riders split off to follow the 70 mile route. Seven of us continued on with the 100 mile route. Kept fueled with Gatorade, PB&J sandwiches, bananas, and GORP (good old raisins and peanuts).

I was pleasantly surprised to meet up a few times with Mike W and Bob from the Brands group who were riding together on the 70 mile route. Good to see them doing well on the ride.

After the 3rd rest stop, and climbing steep Avery Rd., I split off alone on Rt. 25 to head home. I already had my hundred miles and cruised the last 15 home down Round Swamp Rd. Now showered, bagel, coffee, and fruit to refuel and watching some Tour de France highlights on TV. Feeling a bit battered, and so is my bike. Some really rough pavement on this ride. I feel like I really absorbed a beating from the road. Not to mention, someone knocked over my bike at the last rest stop, but no damage.

Percy had his camera along, as usual, so I'll link to his photos if he posts them.

"Coast" Recon

Scouted out the route from home to the start of the Gold Coast century. I'm planning on riding to the official start, then doing about 80 miles of official route with the EB group, then continuing home on my own when the route swings back down to Round Swamp Rd. Did a loop of the LIE service road on the way home for a total ride of 53 miles today.

Should take me about an hour to ride there in the morning.

July 4th Wekend Ride Recap

Friday, July 4th
Headed out early on a cool (55F), misty morning for my traditional climb up Harris Hill. I've blogged about this ride before, its mostly flat until Harris Hill itself, which is a steep wall of a climb. Then a fast descent back down to the Chemung River valley, a circuit around the local airport, then back to Corning. This time, I doubled-up and did another ascent of Harris Hill and airport circuit. This turned the usual 35 mile ride into a 47 mile ride. Its been quite a few weeks since I've needed the gloves and arm warmers for a ride but the morning here upstate are 20F cooler than they have been on the Island.

Saturday, July 5th
Another brisk morning! Felt a bit tired so I opted for a ride that would be mostly flat, with the option of hills if I felt up to it later. I headed west out of Corning on Rt. 415 (Bike 17) to Savona. Still didn't feel great but I knew I had time for 50 miles today, the weather was good and warming-up, so I wanted to make the most of the ride opportunity. I made the right turn onto Rt. 226 and headed into the hills. The climbs are not steep until Weston, and I didn't go that far. Green farm country and small towns. A nice quiet ride on good roads and good pace. As soon as my odemeter click to 25 miles I turned back and retraced my route back to Corning. 51 miles on the day.

Sunday, July 6th
Legs were feeling great this morning, weather was clear and warm, so I decided to go for a long ride. I decided that I could make a challenging century by combining the full Savona-Weston hill route with a loop around Keuka Lake, which I had done once before without Savona/Weston piece. It turned out to be a 108 mile ride, lots of rolling hills, a couple of steep tough climbs, some fast tempo sections, and a hard return home with the last 25 miles into a headwind. Here is a map of the route:



I took the camera along so here is a little photo summary...


About 10 miles in, on Rt. 415, the sunrise is lighting up this wet cornfield.


My shadow as I cruise toward the turnoff at Savona.


On a small uphill section through the farm country on Rt. 226, headed to the town of Tyrone and then Weston.


Still on Rt. 226, about 20 miles into the ride, some horses grazing in the morning sun.


Mile 25, yet another nice farm scene! There were just too many picture opportunities so, around this time, I decided I needed to curtail the photo stops or the ride would take all day.


The post office in Tyrone. Now some big hills as I head back toward Keuka Lake.


After a long, tough climb into Weston, I'm about to lose a large portion of that elevation gain on this 40 mph decent toward Hammondsport and Keuka Lake.


Descending to Keuka Lake, passed this pond on the hills overlooking the Lake. The hills in the distance are on the other side of the lake, which is not yet in view.


This is upstate wine and grape country, as illustrated on the side of this barn. You can see a small bit of Keuka Lake, which is still below me, to the right of the barn.


I got down to the bottom end of Keuka Lake near Hammonsport at mile 35. Then is was a fast, flat 20 mile run up the west side of the lake to Penn Yan. See yesterday's blog entry for a photo from the boat harbor there.


Heading out of Penn Yan, I stopped at a scenic overlook for this photo looking down the western fork of the lake.


Heading back down the east side of the lake, the road is a continuous series of rollers and narrow, twisting roads, unlike the flat and straight west side. I was constantly getting out of the saddle to keep my momentum going. Finally, at mile 80, I got to the town of Hammondsport and stopped in the town square for a Clif bar.


Left Hammondsport on the way to Bath and passed the Curtiss airplane museum.

Corning Area Ride Report and Photos are Coming!

If you have been checking my velog, you know I was away riding in the Corning, NY area for the July 4th weekend. Got home late today and getting ready for work tomorrow. Ride details and photos to follow in a day or two.

Okay, here is one photo to start...


At the top of Keuka Lake, Penn Yan, NY.

Remember to Hydrate!

On Saturday, met up at Brands (LBS) for a ride with the group. We left with a group of about 14 riders. By the time we got to Round Swamp Rd., we had split into two groups and I bridged across to the first one. It was a strong group and a there were a few friendly attacks on the LIE rollers. Around mile 28, the group headed south back to Brands but I went off solo to do West Hills and try to get a few more miles and a few mor climbs in the legs in preparation for July 4th weekend (hopefully will be riding some hills upstate) and the Gold Coast century the week after that. I did the West Hills loop, another loop of the LIE rollers and then a second lap through West Hills. I had 65 miles by the time I got back to the intersection of the LIE and Round Swamp Rd. Although I took two bottles, I was almost out of water and feeling a bit light headed, to I stopped at the Mobil station on the corner for a Gatorade and a couple of oatmeal cookies before finishing off the last 10 miles to home. It was good to get 75 miles and 4 hours of saddle time. It was a nice warm (hot?) and humid day, so its not really surprising that I needed to replenish fluids enroute.

This morning (Sunday), I planned on doing my usual 50 mile loop. This time I took two water bottles instead of the usual one I have been bringing and I went through them both. Nice solo ride in good weather. Lots and lots of roadies out today, and I found myself in the middle of a charity ride on Sweet Hollow road.

I hope the weather is good upstate next weekend. Looking forward to riding some different roads!

Brands Route x 2

Saturday was looking forward to actually riding the Brands route WITH the Brands group. Showed up at the shop for the 7:00am start. It was a somewhat reduced group as a lot of the regulars were doing a century ride that day. Mike W. was there and we headed out with a group of 6 riders.

We had an easy pace out to Bethpage park, then a bit of adrenaline as one rider crashed at a tricky intersection. A car was approaching, and as the rider hit the brakes, the rear wheel locked up. She went down hard and ended up with some road rash on arms and legs. I offered to ride back to the start with her but she wanted to continue the ride. So we all regrouped and continued.

I made strong efforts on the uphill sections and we regrouped after each one. When we got to the turnaround on the LIE, I decided to split off from the group (for a few reasons) and picked up the pace for the remaing 25 miles on my own. Had some post-ride soreness in my right knee for the rest of the day so I wasn't sure about what I would be up for on Sunday.

Sunday morning, and its a clear but humid day. The forcasted rain didn't appear so I fueled up with a bowl of cereal and coffee and went out for another edition of the Brands loop. Two miles into the ride I realized that I forgot my repair kit at home, so I looped back home to pick it up. Tailwinds up to the LIE and had a good pace going east. Just before the turnaround I spotted two riders ahead of me and as I caught up to them I realized it was Mike and Bob, who were also on yesterday's ride. We rode the return leg of the LIE service road together. Mike was riding the new carbon frame he built up and it looks pretty cool. Its an unbranded Wilier Le Roi frame with Ultegra SL, Deda bars and stem, and Thomson seatpost, NICE! They went south on Round Swamp Rd. while I headed north to do my little West Hills extension.

When I eventually headed south, I encountered a headwind and gray skies. It looked like rain was on the way but I made it home before anything came down. Another good weekend of training and some variations of the usual solo rides. Starting to think about getting ready for Gold Coast Century and some climbing!

Saturday Training Ride

Solo tempo ride along the Brands route and through West Hills (50 miles). Felt a bit drained this morning, maybe overtraining? Met Jamie, Mike and the (real) Brands group on the way back and joined them for the last 6 mi.

After the ride, I put a new chain on the Specialized after the old one hit about 2,600 miles. I'm trying to change it regularly every 2,500 miles and see if I can get 7,500 miles out of this cassette. I've made the mistake in the past of letting the chain go too long and ruining the cassette. 2,500 miles seems to be the common rule-of-thumb for changing a chain.

Also got a new rear tire but I'm going to give the current one another 500 miles or so. Or, I'll just change it if I start getting flats. Gave the bike a good cleaning today, too. Hope the weather is okay for a ride tomorrow morning, thunder showers predicted for this evening.

Beating the Heat

Saturday and Sunday called for 90F temps, so I wanted to head out early to beat the heat, and also, to have time for the kids soccer game and dance recitals.

Saturday, it was hazy and cool in the morning, the sun didn't poke through until about mile 30 in my 50-mile Brands/West Hills ride. Average temp was in the 60's so it was a cool, comfortable ride.

After carbo-loading most of the day on Saturday ;-), I headed out on the same route for Sunday, but this time it was hot and sunny from the start (mid 80F's). I really felt like I was flying today, so this ride was a 10 out of 10! It felt really great to ride in the warm weather!

BBB Videos

Youtube video from glennpw of his BBB ride. (I took the footage on the ferry!)


Here is a video from one of the nice people driving the SAG wagon. You can see a quick glimpse of me in the beginning, riding off of the ferry (orange East End jersey, white helmet.)

Bike-Boat-Bike Ride Report (PyZahl's Photos added)

PyZahl's photos here.

Some early morning fog, but otherwise a perfect day was on tap the the Suffolk Bike Riders Association annual Bike-Boat-Bike ride. There are various rides ranging from 25 miles to 137 miles. Our group settled on the 106-mile route.

We had a core group of about 8-10 riders and set out from Mattituck at 7:30am. An uneventful but very enjoyable ride out to Greenport for the first ferry. Nice fast paceline was the order of the day. Due to the number of riders expected to make the crossing to Shelter Island, they had someone selling the discounted ferry tickets in the loading area. They were extremely slow in making change and before we knew it, the ferry shoved off and left Dave S. behind. I met glennpw on the ferry and we talked about the Kreb race videos he made, including a new one he put up for the recent Empire State Games qualifier. He is also making a video of his BBB ride and I actually videod him doing a little monologue on the ferry (I'll post a link when he puts it up on youtube.com. (Luckily, Dave caught up to the group at the other end of Shelter Island as we waited for the ferry to the South fork.)

We let two ferries go waiting for Dave and John Y., who we missed at the start, but John didn't show so we proceeded on the next one. All I can say about the rest of the ride was that it was a fast group ride thruogh some great LI scenery! We rode through the Shinnecock golf course, past by the Big Duck, through tree covered roads. Just great.

I had no camera but if PyZahl posts a ride report, I'll link to it.

Weather Gamble

I checked the weather forecast this morning...80% change of rain for the day but most likely in the afternoon, only about 20% chance until 9:00am. I took the chance and set out for my usual 50-mile ride. Got the first bit of drizzle after 5 miles. It only lasted a couple of minutes and the sun even came out for a while as I rode east on the LIE srevice road.

Almost as soon as I made the turnaround, the heavy rain started! It was really pouring for about 15 minutes, then gradually let up. I started to think about cutting the ride short but by the time I got back to Round Swamp Rd., the roads were fairly dry, so I went for the West Hills loop as well.

Heading south back down Round Swamp, more drizzle and wet roads. I got the miles I wanted but ended up pretty soaked. I'll need to get the bike cleaned-up for tomorrow's Bike-Boat-Bike century, and figure out some way to get my cycling shoes dried out by then.

Sunday Ride and the Blue Angels

The Blue Angels in formation at Jones Beach, May 25, 2008.

Did the 40-mile Brands route, again, with great weather. I was a bit tired from a busy day on Saturday and we also had plans to see the air show at Jones Beach, so I cut the ride a bit shorter to just 40 miles

We joined some friends out on their boat and really enjoyed the airshow and a leisurely cruise back to Freeport when it was over. We all had a fun time and enjoyed the nice weather. Here is a little video snippet of the Blue Angels roaring overhead as we bobbed offshore in the boat.

Memorial Day Weekend - Saturday Ride

Great weather forecast for the weekend. I set out this morning for the usual 50 mile Brands Ride, but it was too nice out! So I did a second loop out on the LIE for a total of 65 miles...a metric century. Should have brought more water! Anyway, I wanted the extra miles for training because next weekend I'm planning on doing SBRA's Bike-Boat-Bike ride. Most likely, I will attempt the 135 mile route, so that will be a DOUBLE metric century. I did it a couple of years ago with John Y. so I hope to hook up with John and maybe some of the Early Birds at the start.

Tomorrow should be a good riding day too! Was thinking of doing the BBB 100-mile pre-ride but I have a few other things planned for this weekend besides the bike, so I'll just save it for next weekend.

Monday, I'm planning for a day OFF the bike, which I haven't done since April 11th! Looking forward to spending the day with the family.

Tour de Parc Race Photos

Photo of me and Larry U. in the peloton, by Skip Straub.

Here is a link to more Cat 4 race photos.

Tour de Parc Race Report (updated with results)

My first race of 2008! I signed up for the Cat. 4 race, 20 laps, about 20 miles.

Got up early this morning to find sunshine and spring-like temperatures. A nice surprise since a possibility of showers was forecast right up until last night. Had a leisurely breakfast then suited-up in my EECT kit. The race is only a couple of miles from home so I ride the bike there and picked up my number.

I headed down to Jones' Beach for a 9-mile warmup and was back just in time for the Masters 45+ race, the race before the Cat 4's. Met Dad there and chatted for a couple of minutes until some other EECT guys showed up. We rode a few loops around the park to warm up, made final pit stops, then lined up for the race. I think there were about 6 EECT guys in the race including me.

A good size field, maybe 50 riders. We got our final intructions, then we were off. We had a fast start and one rider overcooked the initial hairpin left-hander but he kept it upright on the grass and rejoined the group without a problem. Exiting the left-hander we were straight into the wind. After the small hill at the other end of the course we had a tailwind so it was a fast-paced drop back down to the finishing straight.

Aside from a handful of short-lived break attempts the group kept together, for the most part. About midway through, one rider was forced into the left-hand curb and did an endo! I think he ended up in the grass and was not seriously injured. As we got closer to the end the group got nervous and there were lots of shouts of "hold your line", or "on your right", and a few other expletives that won't be described here!

One EECT rider was in a final break of three but when his two companions dropped off, he was left alone in the wind and was reabsorbed with 2 laps to go. It ended in a bunch sprint. The EECT rider thinks he may have gotten 5th. I finished mid-pack, happy not to have been dropped and adrenaline pumping from the fast ride in the group.

Glad I did the ride and happy that the family made it out to the race. All-in-all, about 40 miles of riding on the day. Will post photos, and results later if available.

Results added this eveing. Looks like EECT took 5th and 6th in the Cat 4 race!

Cadence Tour de Parc
May 18, 2008
Wantagh, New York

Pro / 1-2-3
54 starters

1. Amaury Perez (GS Mengoni)
2. Rafael Meran (GS Mengoni)
3. Ward Solar (Nerac)
4. Lisban Quintero (CRCA/Foundation)
5. Gavin Robertson (CRCA/Foundation)
6. Tom Dolan (Sommerville Sports)
7. Anthony Lowe (WS United)
8. Edwin Morrel (TOGA)
9. Brent Arthurs (Evolution Cycling)
10. Barry Miller (Mike Fraysee)
11. Martin Lechowitz (CRCA/Foundation)
12. Jermaine Burrowes (WS United)

Women
22 starters

1. Rebecca Wellons (NEBC/Cycle Loft)
2. Ann Marie Miller (CRCA/SanchezMetro)
3. Stacey Jensen (Kissena)
4. Sarah Sauvayre (CRCA/Comedy Central)
5. Brooke O'Connor (Hub Racing)

Category 3
53 starters

1. James Joseph (WS United)
2. Juan Pimental (CRCA/Global Locate)
3. Gary Steinberg (CRCA)
4. Patrick Gellineau (Team Squiggle)
5. Greg Olsen (CRCA/Jr. Dev)
6. Frank Negri (Colavita)
7. Marcus Dahllof (CRCA/Merril Lynch)
8. Douglas Dicks (Bennetts Bikes/FDNY)

Category 4
56 starters

1. Aessandro Matteucci (BVF)
2. Edward Zimmerman (CRCA/Die Hard)
3. Shusaku Sheroyama (Kissena)
4. Eric Robertson (Kissena)
5. Charlie Rey (EECT/Kreb Cycle)
6. Lawrence Uhrlass (EECT/Kreb Cycle)
7. Mark Spottiswoord (GBSC/Babylon Bike)
8. Guy Weinmann (Kissena)

Masters 35+
40 starters

1. Wilson Vasquez (GS Mengoni)
2. Jan Micko (GBSC)
3. Matthew Howard (CRCA/Bandit Racing)
4. Robert Lattanzi (CRCA/Sid's-Cannondale)
5. David Sommerville (Sommerville Sports)
6. John Raheb (Unatt)
7. Kurt Gustafsson (CRCA/Axis)
8. Gregory Lee (CRCA)

Masters 45+
24 starters

1. Scott Willingham (CRCA/SanchezMetro)
2. Jan Micko (GBSC)
3. Ken Plundeke (CRCA/Global Locate)
4. Gregory Lee (CRCA)
5. Jerry Martinez (CRCA/Global Locate)

Category 5

1. Neil Bezdek (Breakaway)
2. Brian Breash (Unatt)
3. Akin Dorsett (Pedaller's Paradise)
4. James Stevens (Unatt)
5. Christopher Clark (CRCA)

Thanks to all the officials, registration volunteers and Robert for pacing all day. A special thanks to Cadence Cycling for supporting the Kissena Cycling Club Races.

Charlie Issendorf
Race Director
Kissena Cycling Club

Tour de Parc Criterium - Tomorrow Morning

I'm doing the Cat 4 race, 10:25am, weather looks good!

Here is more info.

50 mile (almost) Ride

Nice sunny morning but roads were still wet from rain all day yesterday. Perfect conditions for.... a FLAT. Which, fortunately occurred just down the block from home. Made a quick call home and got picked up. Fixed the flat and gave the bike a superficial but much needed wash and lube.

Race tomorrow!

Montauk Century Ride Report

After two days of rain, things cleared up nicely this morning for the SBRA Montauk Century. I decided to ride from home to the start in Babylon this year, so I got another 13 miles as a bonus! Got to the ride start and picked up my cue sheet, then headed out on the official route at 6:55am. Seemed to be fighting a North crosswind most of the way with a little relief when the route briefly swerved south. I guess thats the problem with a point-to-point route, if the wind is against you to don't get the benefit of a tailwind on the return like you do on an out-and-back or loop ride.

The sun came through the clouds on occasion and the wet roads dried for the most part after about 25 miles of riding. I took a few photos on the way (see below) but didn't make any stops longer than about 60 seconds, however long it took to snap a photo or open a Clif bar package.

I tried to keep moving steadily to make it to Montauk by 1:00pm (which I did!) and met Mom and Dad for lunch and a car ride home. The ride had its challenges, like any long ride, but at the end I still felt strong. This despite doing the entire 113 miles solo and dealing with alot of wind. Conditioning must really be coming back. Two centuries in four days, a first for me!

Saw Kevin and John S. and some other regulars on the route heading back west while I was heading east. They were meeting up with a group out of Babylon and invited me to join but I didn't want to add any more miles to my ride and I was feeling comfortable enough on my own, so I continued on to Montauk as planned.

Enjoy the photos, and a big THANKS Mom and Dad for the ride home and the company.


Heading out for 100+ miles on the bike.


Ride start, registration table.


In the Hamptons. There are some huge mansions behind these hedges.


A bucolic scene out East.


Made it!


Now, if we can only get this bike to fit in the trunk...

Spring Century Ride Report

The group at the ride finish in Riverhead.

Took a day off from work today to ride the annual Spring Century with a group of riders from SBRA, mostly the Early Birds group. This was my fourth year doing it and it is a nice ride, mostly following a modified Bike-Boat-Bike route, i.e. heading east on the North fork of Long Island to Greenport, taking the ferry to Shelter Island, across Shelter Island, ferry to the South fork, then west through the Hamptons. In this version, the start/end point is Riverhead (BBB is Mattituck).

Weather was perfect with temps between 60F and 70F most of the way, sunny skies, and light wind. We started with 14 riders (ended with 12 at the finish). It was a fast paced ride (20.1 mph average moving speed) although the total ride time was about 6 1/2 hours, due to 3 flats, waiting for ferries, lunch stop, and a few regroups. The East End scenery was great, as usual.

I felt good on the ride, my first century for 2008. I had a big, carby breakfast, a Clif bar on the ferry and a sandwich and a bag of M&M's for lunch. It was definitely enough fuel. The comfortable temperatures meant that two bottles sports drink and two bottles of water was enough fluid. The group kept a high pace but I didn't take many pulls. It was an effort to stay with the group when they hammered on some of the uphills but there were plenty of regroups to pull things back together. I think we all pulled in to the finish within 1-2 minutes of each other.

All-in-all, a good group ride under excellent conditions. Can't wait until the next one! Speaking of the next one, in three days I'll be doing my next century, the SBRA Montauk Century on Saturday. Much of that will probably be solo, but we'll see.

On another biking note... I read on the MasiGuy blog about artist Taliah Lempert and here bicycle-themed artwork. I checked out some of her work online and really liked it. So, I am now the proud owner of this pen-and-ink and watercolor drawing, which I just received today. Just need to get a frame now. Check it out!


Malcolm's Bike - Color Chart #1 by Taliah Lempert 2008

50 Wet Miles

Checking out the weather forecast last night for this morning in Manorville, it called for 80% chance of rain and possible thunder. Once I saw that I pretty much wrote-off the Early Birds for today and started thinking about alternatives. Trainer? Rain bike? Road bike with rain wheels? Just ride the road bike anyway? Take a day off?

Looking out the window this morning, it was overcast and misty, but the sky didn't look dark enough for really bad weather. I also read on weather.com that it was supposed to clear up in the afternoon. So that clinched it...I settled on taking the Specialized knowing it would get muddy and grimy but I would have a chance to clean it all up in the afternoon (as I write this, the sun is already out and everything is drying up nicely). Actually, I haven't cleaned it well all winter so its the perfect time to do it now before the two big century rides this week.

Did the same route as yesterday without the Jones Beach loop. The ride turned out really well! Legs were a bit worn out from yesterday's ride and I had to be a little more careful to avoid road debris due to the rain. I ditched the vest today but wore wind-proof tights so I wouldn't freeze up from the road spray.

For some reason it seemed as though there was less traffic today. So it was kind of nice to climb steadily through the woods in West Hills hearing only the hiss of the tires on the wet roads, the birds, and the clip-clop of the horses when I passed the riding center.

As was the case yesterday, headwinds going out and tailwinds heading back, which is a good thing! As I passed over the Wantagh Parkway, I saw some of the runners doing the Long Island marathon. Other bike events today: The 5-Boro Bike Tour (30,000 riders!) and the Long Island ESG Qualifier. Looks like they both will have avoided the rain, too. Looking forward the Wednesday's century! It will be a real test!

Base miles

Fueled up with a bowl of oatmeal and a big cup of coffee and headed out the door at 7:05am. Today's riding goal was to accumulate some endurance miles in preparation for two centuries that I'm planning to do this week. The unofficial "Spring Century" on Wednesday and the official SBRA "Montauk Century" next Saturday.

A cloudy, cool, and damp morning today, but what really matters is that the rain held off and I was able to get in a nice long ride on the road bike. Did the usual Brands route and West Hills extension. Felt good after that so I added a loop to Jones' Beach for a total of 60 miles.

The ride was good with only light car traffic. Wind was not bad either until I got to the Jones' Beach path, and it was really whipping across the water. SO the last 10 miles of the ride were really slow. I see they are getting the Wantagh Parkway ready for tomorrow's Long Island Marathon!

Hopefully the rain will hold off tomorrow morning and I will head out to do the Early Birds ride. If its raining, I'll stay closer to home. I think a lot of the EB regulars will be doing the ESG qualifier race tomorrow, so maybe it will be a bit easier ride and I won't get dropped again! ;-)

Pro sighting???

Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge this morning on my way to the office and spotted a cyclist sitting on a bench, in the middle of the bridge, checking out his Blackberry. Full Bissell pro team kit and beatiful, shiny Pinarello bike! Didn't want to bother him, but made me think back to Richard England's recent stage victory at the Tour de Georgia. Cool!

A Windy One

Did 50 miles this morning, Brand's route following Round Swamp Rd., the LIE service road, plus the loop through West Hills Preserve. Started out a little cloudy and cool (swapped shorts for knickers at the last minute) but a strong wind out of the east blew the clouds and the threat of rain away. Unfortunately, had to fight that strong wind all the way out to the turnaround point on the LIE service road. Made the turn then had a sweet tailwind back to Round Swamp Rd. Glad the rain held off today!

Met Mike W. as I was nearly home and stopped for a couple of minutes to chat. He told me the Brands group is starting to ride again so maybe I'll try to hook up with them for a Saturday morning ride in a few weeks. Trying to accumulate some miles in preparation for two planned centuries in early May.

Tour de Parc Criterium - May 18th!

Mark your calendars, race fans. The Tour de Parc Criterium is scheduled for Sunday, May 18th at Cedar Creek Park, Wantagh. I registered for the Cat 4 race, maybe will do Masters 35+ (still deciding). Will probably be my first race of the year.

Early Birds, North

Joined the Early Birds ride out of Manorville this morning. A bit colder than yesterday. About 1/3 of us in shorts, the rest in tights, knickers, or leg warmers. The usual strong pace but not killer. Wind was a factor for the first half of the ride but the group stayed together unil Penny Lane and the tanks.

I seemed to get dropped at every hill, so the climbing legs are definitely not back. Caught back up to the group as they waited at the first regrouping spot. A quick stop to refuel in Cutchogue, where we almost lost Pyzahl as he got caught by some traffic. The group slowed to get all back together.


Pyzahl snapped this shot just as the group was heading out from the Cutchogue deli stop (I'm the orange jersey on the left).

(Check out Pyzahl's ride report.)

We had a fast tailwind-assisted return to Rt. 51, where I preceeded to get dropped again, this time, for good. Dave S. and I worked together most of the way down 51 but when we turned on to 111, I didn't see Dave to I rode in the last few miles solo. Arrived at the lot just as some of the first guys were leaving!

A good challenging ride, good to meet up with the guys who I haven't seen in 6 or 7 months. A wake-up call in terms of where I am in my overall bike fitness. Gotta do some hills!

Ride to Bellport

Rode out to Bellport today on a quest to pickup my new EECT jersey at Kreb Cycle. I ordered the team jersey over the winter but have not had a chance to drive out to Bellport to get it. Since I'm trying to build up miles to get ready for a couple of century rides in May, this seemed like a good opportunity to get in a long ride and finally pick up the jersey.


The object of my quest.

Great weather today, ride started in the mid 50's and was high 60's by the time I completed the 72 mile ride. Took about 4 hours, which is what I was estimating. The route was very familiar as I just got on Merrick Rd. (which soon becomes Montauk Highway) and headed east. Just after Patchogue, I got on Rt. 36 (South Country Road) for about 3 miles, which passes within one block of Kreb Cycle. Got my jersey, ate a Clif bar in the parking lot, then headed back home.

I ran the usual gauntlet between Massapequa and Babylon, where there is virtually no shoulder on the 4-lane road for almost 10 miles. I was sure to take a big drink in Babylon because I knew there would be no way I was taking my hands off of the bars until I got through to Massapequa.

Exchanged e-mail with John Y. this week so I am looking forward to doing the Early Birds from Manorville tomorrow. Hopefully won't get dropped. I don't know, my legs are kind of toast right now. Ride report tomorrow.

Ride...Recover...Repeat

Same route as yesterday but this time with my regular road bike. Dry roads today but 10-15 degrees colder and windy. Legs not quite as fresh as yesterday but still feeling good, all in all. Glad to get two long rides in this weekend.

Old School, Baby!

Warm weather this morning but wet roads and threat of rain today. I decided to take the rain bike (1980's Trek 520, heavy steel touring bike). Switched out the cage pedals for the Shimano's from my Specialized and headed out for the LIE route.

I was looking forward to at least 40 miles, and hopefully more! Saw a notice on the SBRA web site about this year's spring century (a.k.a. the Bratwurst Century) that is traditionally on a Tuesday in April or May, leaving from Riverhead, going up the North Fork, across Shelter Island and back to Riverhead via the South Fork. I really want to do this ride and need to get some miles on the legs!

Ate a Clif bar at mile 20 and was still feeling strong when I got back to Round Swamp Rd., so I headed North and looped through West Hills Park. The old Trek did okay, and the ride was sort of "old school" with a steel bike, downtube shifters, 6-speed cassette and 27x1-1/4 tires. No computer on this bike so ride speed was strictly by "feel". Of course, this is 2008 so I had my cell phone, GPS, and CO2 inflater in my jersey pocket!


Downtube shifters


Quill stem


Reynolds 531 steel frame


Lugged construction

The sun peeked out for a while and the roads began to dry up. Used my new shorts from Performance today and they worked out fine. I think this was the first ride in shorts this year. Just a baselayer and jersey on top.

No significant wind and I felt pretty good on the climbs, even with the heavy bike. West Hills was nice and scenic and I saw some kids taking horseback riding lessons at the stables there.

Just like last Saturday, would like to do the same ride tomorrow, hopefuly the weather will cooperate.

That didn't last long...

Cold, damp, and windy today. What happened to that spring weather?

Just two loops to Jones Beach. Met Mike W. on the path and stopped for a couple of minutes to chat and catch up. Hope the warm weather shows up again next weekend.

Finally, some great cycling weather!

Mid to high 50's today, some early clouds turning into bright sunshine. Rain all day on Friday threatened for this morning but it ended up holding off and it turned out to be a great riding day.

Last weekend I did two short 20-milers to Jones Beach to break the ice. Temperatures were still in the 30's, so they were cold and windy affairs. Today, all I needed were knickers, a base layer, and jersey to stay warm as opposed to last weekend's baselayer, jacket, full shoe covers, ski gloves, balaclava, windproof tights, etc.

Did the usual 40-mile "Brands" ride down the LIE service road. Nice tailwind heading out! I felt surprisingly good after so little riding this year and didn't need to eat during the ride, which was a good sign. I think the big waffle breakfast that Tina and I had this morning helped!


Speed distribution of today's ride, looks sort of B+ level.


Pyzahl was planning a century today and invited me along but I had to decline, knowing that I'm not in shape for that distance yet. Great for them (too bad for me), looks like it was a great day for it.

Here is the GPS track of the ride. Hope to do the same tomorrow!

Pair of Weekend Rides

Short ride on Saturday due to sub-freezing temperatures (23F). Met up with Mike for 25 miles out to the LIE and back. Not much wind so, except for fingers and toes, I stayed pretty warm for the ride. Water bottle started to freeze but there was just enough sun on the way back so it didn't freeze solid.

Today (Sunday) was supposed to be warmer, and it was. But windy conditions and overcast skies still made it feel cold. Temperature was above freezing but never made it out of the 30's for the duration of the ride. We did the full 40-mile Brands route but Mike had a mechanical at mile 25 which forced him to do the remaining 15 miles in his 2nd lowest gear. Talk about spinning! We limped back to Brands a later than we had originally intended but were both glad to get the miles.

Spinning Along the Brands Ride Route

Haven't ridden in about a month but Mike sent out an e-mail yesterday that he was planning to do the Brands ride this morning, so I joined him. It was just the two of us with a 7:30am start. It was quite overcast with temperature about 35F, but the rain was forecast to hold off until afternoon. Nice steady pace up until we started to hit the rollers around Bethpage Park. Then steady, gradual climb up Round Swamp Rd. to the LIE. We both felt good after those initial 12 miles so we did the full Brands loop down to exit 52. At the turnaround point, we made a 5-minute pitstop to eat a CLIF Bar and snap a couple of photos.

 
Mike (left) and I at the 20-mile turnaround.

Then headed back, again, surprisingly with no wind. A slight headwind as we headed back south down Round Swamp and back to Brands. Overall, a good spinning ride with a few rollers to make things interesting. I think 41 miles (for me, including the ride back home) was a good length, too. Hopefully we can start to string a few weekend rides together.

First Ride of '08

Finally broke the ice and did a short ride down Round Swamp Rd. and back. Only 27 miles but I was kind of dead at the end of it. I guess this officially starts the build up for the new year!

Quick Holiday Ride

I was knocked out by a bad head-cold last week so skipped riding on Saturday to try and recover for Christmas. It definitely helped! Sunday was a washout due to morning rain. I don't think Bob or Mike were riding this weekend either.

Monday morning (today), its bright and sunny with mild temps in the low 40's, so I took a ride to Jones Beach and back. Strong headwinds going to the beach and nice tailwind coming back. Just one loop today, didn't want to overdue it after being sick.

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!. Next ride will most likely be in 2008!

On the Trainer Today

A busy morning and temps in the mid-20's put a dent in plans for a ride this morning, so instead I dusted off the trainer and slipped in my Race Day DVD. Did 45 minutes of intervals for an exhausting but quick workout. Weather dos not look good for tomorrow so I may repeat the process tomorrow morning.

Bethpage Bike Path

Two rides this weekend, both on the Bethpage bike path.

Saturday, was a solo ride. A late start, 9:00AM, just down the Bethpage bike path to Bethpage State Park and back (20 miles). I looked around in the parking lot at the Bethpage Park end of the path for some sign of the MTB trails that Mike and Bob have been riding the past couple of weekends but there was nothing clearly marked. There was a threat of rain Saturday morning but it was clear by the time I was riding. Took the Trek for this one since the path can be crowded and rough in some spots, so I wanted to ride just platform pedals and the 27x1-1/4 tires. Not as many joggers as I had feared.

Mike and I agreed to meet at Brands Sunday morning at 8:00AM. Again we headed to Bethpage Park. After turning back, we both felt like adding some miles so we left the path at Central Ave. and went up Round Swamp Rd. to Rt. 25 and back. Then we jumped back on to the path where we left off. A nice 35 mile ride. On Sunday's ride, Mike described the MTB trails that he and Bob had been riding. Sounds fun so I may try to borrow Ed's MTB for next weekend.

Enter Frozone

Cold and VERY windy day today. Not freezing (34F) but lots of wind (20-29mph). Had a great dinner last night at Snaps! Our first time eating there but we decided to try a new place for our 17th anniversary dinner. We had the 6-course tasting menu with wine pairings. Awesome food, will definitely be back there again!

Tried to hook up with Bob and Mike but we could not get our schedules to mesh. So, I did a solo out on the Jones Beach bike path. Did three loops for a total of 31 miles. I wasn't planning on pushing the pace so I brought the digital camera. Here are a few photos and movie. Enjoy!


At the entrance to the bike path.


View from the bike path.


Wind bending the reeds and cattails.


Bike lot at the Jones Beach end of the path.


Can't believe its been this long.


Short video from today's ride.

Easy Saturday Spin

Did a 40-miler with Mike and Bob on Saturday. The usual Brands route up Round Swamp Rd., LIE service road, and back to Brands. Very easy pace, a little windy on the way back, too.

Sunday AM ride was a longshot since we were out late on Saturday night. Also, some errands to run and work to do for Monday, so I skipped it. Too bad, as it turned out to be a bit warmer, after all.

I have been reading Pyzahl's reports from Trevor's rides. There is a slower group doing the same route. I'm thinking about joining them after Thanksgiving. Also, possibly will meet up with Pyzahl for RP2IB ride if possible. Another good ride with tough hills at the end, but generally with a smaller group. As a bonus, there is a Bakery at the end!

Will be away from Thursday to Saturday for the holiday. Not sure what riding plans will develop yet.

Winter Weather is Here

After trading some e-mails with Mike and Bob during the week, we had tentative plans for Saturday and Sunday. Saturday was wet due to leftover rain from Friday night. I went to Brands at 7:00am but there were no other takers. I did a solo 24 miles up to the LIE and back. I rode the rain bike, along with a rain jacket, think it might turn into a wet ride. The roads were wet but only got a little dizzle the last five miles of the ride.

Sunday, we met up at Brands earlier than usual (6:30am) as some of the guys had other commitments for the day. It was a cold one, 35F at the start. Everyone broke out the cold weather gear for this one. For me it was: full shoe covers, balaclava in head/ears configuration, ski gloves, AMFib bib tights, and winter riding jacket. I thought I might be a little over-dressed, since I wear this outfit down to 20F, but it worked out well. We rode at an easy pace and overheating was not a problem at all. We kept the group together and, as the sun came up, got to enjoy the remnants of the LI fall foliage. On the return leg, Bob had a mechanical when his front derailleur cable slipped out of the bolt but it was not dragging and he was able to ride it in with no problems. Nice tailwind on the way home, too!

I'm off from work on Monday too but no riding plans at this point.

Another "Light" Riding Week

Skipped ride on Saturday morning due to a late night out for dinner on Friday night and some dreary weather on Saturday morning.

Since it was a whole week with no ride, I was not really up for a "sufferfest" at Trevor's ride so I headed to Brands to meet Mike and Bob for an easier pace. That didn't quite work out as I had some time constraints and we were a little late starting out. I did solo 40 miles up the LIE service road and back. A total of only 95 miles for the past two weekends! Not good.

I think I will try to hit the trainer this week and prepare myself for Trevor's, next weekend. Part of the problem is that it starts one hour later than EB, so its a long day when coming from Nassau county. :-(

Final EB for 2007

A windy morning in Manorville as the group assembled for the final 2007 Early Birds ride. Actually, the ride continues year-round but most of the East End Cycling team will switch over to Trevor's ride out of Port Jefferson for the winter. Also about a 55-mile ride but it starts at 8:30am instead of 7:30am and there is no food stop.

Today's ride was intense (for me). It blasted out of the parking lot and several riders were dropped in the first mile. It didn't really regroup until there was a flat tire about 10 miles into the ride. It was together again until the hills by the "tanks", at which point a group of 5 went off the front. I chased by myself, about 50 yards behind. Once over the tanks, myself and another rider were chasing a group of four.

We were HAULING down Sound Avenue, and a 3rd rider went of the back of the lead group. So now it was 3 chasing 3. The front group bypassed the regroup point and we did too so as not to lose them. A few miles later, the front group let up so we could catch on. Then the 6 of us pacelined to the deli in Cutchogue.

The remainder of the group arrived at the deli a few minutes after us. The group was mostly together on the return leg of the ride. A second flat, but it was repaired quickly.

At Rt. 51, two broke away. At first I just intended to close the gap and follow the wheels, but no one came with me, so we were three in front for a short while. When we go to the steep part of 51, I was dropped and chased, on my own, most of the way down 51. The group behind was hammering and caught me, then the lead two, just as we turned onto Rt. 111. A hard pace again split the group into several pieces but I was able to stay with the front.

I know, its not a race, but I definitely rode as hard as I would in any race. A really good, tough, ride to finish off the EBs!

Some of PyZahl's pictures from todays ride. Also, check out his ride report.

At the start in Manorville.

Rest stop in Cutchogue.

Waiting while they change flat #2.

EB South

Second-to-last EB ride for the year. Headed south with about 14 riders and a tailwind. Only lost one rider on Dune Road. Together for the rest of this nice, fast ride.

I think next week is the last EB out of Manorville, then it will switch to Trevor's Ride.

LLoyd Neck Out-and-Back

Met at Brands parking lot for a 7:00am start. Two other riders were there, Bob and Mike. We talked about last week's Cold Sping Harbor loop and decided to head in the same direction today. Roads were wet from previous day's rain. And I jinxed myself by commenting, "These are the kind of roads where you get alot of flats."

Here is the GPS track of my ride.

We rode an easy pace up to Cold Spring Harbor. Bob and Mike needed to head back at that point but Bob described a little extension to the ride that he had done up to LLoyd Neck Harbor. He mentioned that it went up Snake Hill Road, so I decided to add another 10 miles to my ride.

On the way back, I flatted (as predicted!) at the bottom of Snake Hill so that was a bit annoying. I need to replenesh my CO2 supply today! A nice ride, good weather, and good company.

TOSREC - PyZahl's Photos

Pyzahl had his camera (thanks again!). So here are some shots from the ride.


Reviewing the plan as we wait to board the ferry from Orient Pt. to New London, CT.


Sunrise framing the ferry as we board.


On the road!


Most of the ride was through scenic, tree-lined roads.


Fall foliage.


The group navigates a turn.


Coffee break after 45 miles.


104 miles later, back in New London waiting for the ferry home.

TOSREC

Updated 18-Oct-2007
Here is my GPS track of the ride.

Met up today with 5 other riders for the Tour of Southern Rural Connecticut. This is a homegrown century ride put together by John Y. from the SBRA Early Birds. The other riders are all EB veterans. We had a forecast of good riding weather, light wind, temperature in mid-60's.

I left the house this morning at 4:30am to meet the group at Orient Point for the 7:00am ferry to New London, CT. We met there, got our tickets, loaded our bikes and got on board. The ferry is huge, as it transports cars, trucks, and passengers. There is a smaller, faster, high-speed ferry but it doesn't allow bikes.

We stowed the bikes and headed upstairs for a cup of coffee as we started the 1 hour and 20 minute ferry ride. Once in CT, we disembarked and started our ride. We were quickly out of the New London and into rural areas.

Nice smooth roads with wide shoulders and only light traffic. Colorful beginnings of the fall foliage surounded us as we passed lots of farmland, lakes, state forests, and small towns. I had never been in this part of CT but it reminded me a little of Vermont, will smaller hills. One unfortunate incident at mile 25... a water bottle fell from the rider in front of me, and as I drifted right to avoid it, I accidently caused PyZahl, who was right behind me, to go off the road. The soft shoulder grabbed his wheel causing him to go down. No apparent injuries or bike damage but it was kind of a scare that was in the back of my mind for the rest of the ride.

After 45 miles we stopped for coffee at Dunkin Donuts. One rider decided to shorten to a metric century while the other 5 of us proceeded on an additional loop North. More scenic roads and rolling hills for an additional 30 miles. This was a quite hilly ride, with total elevation gain around 7,000 ft., at bit more than the Gold Coast century.

We met up with our 6th rider and some of ther other guys grabbed a quick lunch. I had a Clif bar and felt like it was enought to hold me for the last 35 miles back to New London. We rode strongly and made good time back to the ferry terminal by 3:30pm. The ferry departed at 4:00pm and we had a smooth passage back to LI.

All-in-all, a great route and excellent group of riders. Its good to see some new places from the bike. I think we maintained a good touring pace and though the hills were challenging, they were not too difficult. Can't wait to do it again next year.

GPS track of the ride and links to PyZahl's picks to follow...

Fast Early Birds Ride

Another cool morning, this time out in Manorville for the Early Birds. North route, for a change. It was a fast ride but I was hanging comfortably for 95% of the ride. Got dropped on the hill on Rt. 51 and just could not jump back on to the wheel. Then, the wind was a factor and I watched the group slowly pull away, even when I was doing 27-28 on the flats.

A hard ride, but it felt good and I really didn't "blow up", just couldn't hold the wheel when the attack went. Well, there is always next week!

Cold Spring Harbor Ride

Only one other rider showed up at the Brands lot this chilly morning. I had to break out the fall/winter gear, long finger gloves, long sleeve jersey, base layer, and tights. The two of us headed out for the usual LIE ride. We met up with a third rider just past Hempstead Turnpike and the three of us proceeded up Round Swamp Rd. to the LIE service road. Two of us decided to change things up and head to Cold Spring Harbor. We went over some of the same roads as the Triangle Ride and the Gold Coast Century.

Here is the route as well as I can remember. Lots of turns, so I'm sure I got some of it wrong.

Good ride, brisk pace, with a few climbs. If I remember it, it could be a good solo route too, over the winter.

More Tour de Parc Stuff

Here is a link to photos. Mostly the same as below with a couple of new ones.

Early Birds Today plus Tour de Parc Results & Photos

Here are the results from Saturday's Tour de Parc. Two East End riders placed in the 35+ masters race.

Here is a link to some photos from the 3/4 race.

Great, fast ride with the Early Birds. South route again, with some wet roads, but a fast pace! Legs were a little dead after Saturday but the group stayed together, for the most part. A few regulars were missing either racing in Prospect Park or at the cyclocross in Southampton. Off from work tomorrow so I will probably do a short ride in the AM.

2007 Tour de Parc Race Report

On the line, ready to start.

I raced wit the Cat. 3/4's today at the Tour de Parc at Cedar Creek. I missed it last year and the race was not held the year before that. The whole family came by to watch the race, and that was really special.

I got there early and picked up my race number. After watching the Cat. 5 race, I took a warmup ride down to Jones Beach and back. A few minutes later we were lining up for the start (photo above). There seemed to be small breakaways off the front for practically the whole race. Mostly, just one or two guys at a time. At one point it looked like the field would split in half but it was pulled back together.

This was one of the biggest fields I've raced in, at least 50 racers (40 were pre-registered by Friday night). There was constant shifting of lines, but amazingly, no crashes, even with the tight hairpin on one end of the 1-mile course.

I had two laps where I tried to bridge to a lone breakaway with two other riders but we never did quite make it. The pack eventually caught us. One scary moment, there was a loud "bang" and some guy's front wheel just exploded (a bunch of spokes just gave way). He kept it upright somehow and drifted to the side of the course, but those of us behind him had to hustle back to the group.


Short clip of the peloton passing by the start/finish with 4 laps to go.

In the end, the finish was a group sprint, and I finished somewhere in the middle of the pack. Maybe they will post results online in the next couple of days. There were two other East End riders in the race but none of us placed in the top 8 places.

Tomorrow, Early Birds on tap.