tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13721471476409216032024-02-20T04:08:03.241+11:00Rider reduxgetting back in the saddleGranthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12337801641101641763noreply@blogger.comBlogger160125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1372147147640921603.post-72320381950890163022019-01-18T09:23:00.003+11:002019-01-18T09:23:44.110+11:00Has it been six years?Apparently it has, and even more amazingly, I was still logged in.<br />
<br />
While I'm still riding I'm thinking to change my focus a bit and add some writing about my general observations of life. Based on my views, I don;t think anyone will mind.<br />
<br />
<br />Granthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12337801641101641763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1372147147640921603.post-49447330528254122442013-07-30T23:03:00.003+10:002013-07-30T23:03:59.613+10:00Winery Wander 300After a spot flu that kept me off the rode for the inaugural Tarago 400, I decided I would travel north to have a go at the Winery Wander 300, and so move me a bit closer to completing a super series this year.<br />
<br />
The start in Berowra is about 2 hours away from home so it was an early start on Saturday morning, as the alarm rang out a 3.15am and a bit dazed and sleepy I jumped into the car to head off. A few kilometers later I realized I was still wearing my ugg boots, but it was too late to turn back for more appropriate footwear. I also managed to miss the motorway exit and had to endure a 15 minute detour which meant that I would miss my chance of a coffee and have to rush to get ready on time.<br />
<br />
I was the last rider to arrive at Berowra, but only just, and quickly changed into my riding gear and loaded the bike, got checked and away we went, only 5 minutes late.<br />
<br />
In the dark and preoccupied with my preparation, I didn't really have a chance to familiarize myself with the bunch which was made up of 300 and 200km riders, so I set off into the cold, going a nit hard to warm up. Before long things were settling down after we descended from Cowan and with the sun beginning to rise I decided to pause for a photo, realizing at the same time that in my rush to get going I had not properly put my bib knicks and the shoulder loops were flapping by my side.<br />
<br />
After partially disrobing on the road and being passed by a few familiar faces, I jumped back on the bike to make up lost ground. Passing a few riders on the climb up Mt White I found Dave, who I had ridden with on the Oppy earlier in the year and we fell into place for the rest of the ride.<br />
<br />
As the day opened up before us it was clear it was going to be a great day for riding and after a brief pause at Peats Ridge we enjoyed the beautiful countryside between Kulnarra and Broke to the first controle. Here we caught up with Howard and Hugh and after a quick breakfast we headed out this time with Mark joining to make a trio of riders.<br />
<br />
A slight headwind had cropped up and we shared turns over the undulations for a while before turning into the quieter and lumpier roads through the wine country around Pokolbin. The countryside was truly gorgeous and I was reveling in the pleasure of riding through it in such wonderful conditions. After a few more lumps, Dave signalled his intention to take it easier along here so Mark and I headed off towards Cessnock before stopping at a cafe for a cup of coffee and a sweet. A few minutes later Dave joined us and after a short rest we set off again taking the back road towards Quorrobolong around the Watagan Mountains before heading over the gap and skirting the back of Lake Macquarie towards Morriset. I had spent quite a bit of time on the front by now and as we turned onto Wyee road, Dave suggested we stop at the servo for a quick bite to eat before carrying on to Wyong and the second controle. I was eager to do so, feeling the fatigue creeping up from the early start and I had a rare guarana drink to keep me perky. It was here that I decided to attach the battery charger to the garmin to keep it going as the internal battery was getting low only to pull the connecting wires from the box. Bugger!<br />
<br />
We rolled into Wyong as the sun set and after a rest and card stamping at the fish and chip/chinese restaurant we donned our night attire and headed out for the last 70kms. This last section was relatively tough and included a few longish climbs, and a few longish descents to break the monotony! As always the Cowan climb loomed before us and I was very glad to reach the Pie and set the controls for the relatively easy run back to Berowra.<br />
<br />
I pulled into the station carpark at 9.30, a few minutes ahead of Mark and Dave. It was a great day out and confirmed my love of 300s, tough enough to make you work hard for most of the day, but without the sleep deprivation of 400s.<br />
<br />
I was back home in a couple of hours and slept like a log, waking on Sunday morning to the pleasant ache of achievement. <br />
<br />Granthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12337801641101641763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1372147147640921603.post-35301288875889859862013-07-08T12:09:00.003+10:002013-07-08T12:09:36.716+10:00Berry Mountain 200Saturday saw the second running of the Berry Mountain 200. A few riders from Sydney plus a few from Wollongong, meant that the second run would be more populated than the first, though both inaugural completers i.e. Shane and Me were back for more.<br />
<br />
The weather forcast had been looking good for most of the week leadin gup to the ride until thursday when strong westerly winds fetured in the forcast. They were supposed to abat during the day, so we set off from Dapto, gritting our teeth into a cold wind but optimistic that it may slacken off during the day.<br />
<br />
It didn't.<br />
<br />
The first control after a hard slog into and a pleasant run with the wind saw coffee cups blow off their plates and bikes crash over, further on we experienced wild pushes that sent us off line but it was all part of the day.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/9219946470/" title="First control at gerringing #audax by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="First control at gerringing #audax" height="500" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3722/9219946470_ff4b40bebd.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
As we pushed on the group moved ahead towards the mountain as one, though I was feeling the effects of the cold and dropped back, happy to plug away at my own pace.<br />
<br />
I soon found myself at the bottom of the climb of Cambewarra Mt, after catching occasional fleeting glimpses of cyclists in flouro ahead. Starting the climb I stopped to remove my outer shell and fiddle with the new EO gear saddle bag which was proving tricky on its first run.<br />
<br />
Plugging up the climb I was getting hotter so stopped again to remove my beany and quietly giving up hope of catching the rest of the guys.<br />
<br />
The climb was long and steep and the false flats between Mt Berry and Cambewarra Mt seem long and hard in the wind. When I arrived at the control I found Barry and Geoff the sole riders. Seems I was the 3rd one in, but how? Everyone else was in front of me...<br />
<br />
Soon Shane and Dale hove into view having missed the turn and gone passed only to swing back.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/9217991367/" title="Cambewarra mt #audax by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Cambewarra mt #audax" height="500" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5459/9217991367_cc93c0a5c2.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
After a short break we continued on and enjoyed a rare descent of the mountain without any cars up front or behind and soon found ourselves sloggin along the flatlands south of Nowra across the wind into Greenwell Pt. It was hard work and we were glad to find the cafe at the end of the point for lunch. Well some of us were :-)<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/9221045454/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Greenwell pt #audax by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Greenwell pt #audax" height="500" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5502/9221045454_44406bdda7.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The return leg had us facing back into the wind en route to Nowra before turning with the wind for a very fast passage out through Bomaderry and along 7 mile beach road. before stopping at the penultimate control at Crooked River.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/9219014639/" title="Something warm and something sugary at Crooked River #audax 50km to go :-) by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Something warm and something sugary at Crooked River #audax 50km to go :-)" height="500" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2811/9219014639_42543c16d8.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<br />
I hung around to see Shane roll in at about 3.45pm and with heaps of time up our sleeve we set off for to cover the remaining 50kms. Shane had beene xperiencing some gearing problems all day so was travelling conservatively and I soon drew away over the hills.<br />
<br />
Stopping to switch on lights and don vest at Kiama, as the sunset and temperatures dropped I was soon cocooned in my lights and tapping away for the finish. I made one wrong turn up a freeway exit, but managed to loop back down and continue on to Dapto without any further misadventure.<br />
<br />
It had been a challenging day but I was glad to be out and commencing my preparation for the SM1200 in November.Granthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12337801641101641763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1372147147640921603.post-41780802478336694572013-06-11T11:29:00.002+10:002013-06-11T11:33:51.825+10:00Vale Richard BallantineI was saddened to learn over the weekend that Richard Ballantine, author of "Richard's Bicycle Book" has died.<br />
<br />
Richard's Bicycle Book was an enormous influence on my riding and love and cycling, and I've been recalling fondly, afternoons spent planning rides, repairs and civil disobedience while turning it's pages.<br />
<br />
I hope he is turning the pedals even now.Granthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12337801641101641763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1372147147640921603.post-18550769574619135192013-05-13T14:15:00.001+10:002013-05-13T19:24:23.065+10:003 Parks 200Following the Riverina Romp I decided to move my new bike purchase forward and took delivery of a Cervelo R3 last week.<br />
<br />
After a few tuning rides I felt confident to remove the saddle from my faithful Roubaix and attach it to the R3 for this weekends 3 Parks Ride, a 200 km brevet that is known for it's relentless pursuit of hills.<br />
<br />
I had scheduled the ride in the Audax calender, but at this time of year there's a bit going on so I found myself the only taker for the ride. I had the company of Harvey on the way up the pass but after that I was on my own. we started at 6.30am and the early conditions as we rode across the flatlands were foggy, cool and moist.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8727517124/" title="Photo by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Photo" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7390/8727517124_5380a752d9.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
At the top of the pass Harvey and I parted ways - Harvey for a Pie at the Robbo Pie shop and me for the undulations of Tourist Road. Tourist Road is a favourite for many local cyclists and it was typically beautiful on Saturday, especially so as the fog began to lift and the warming rays of the sun came through to brighten the road as I approached the watershed of the Nepean River. From here I traversed across the valley, resplendent in its autumn colours, and I enjoyed the short but steady climb out the other side and onto the Gibraltar range ridge.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8726398055/" title="Tourist rd on 3 parks 200 #audax by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Tourist rd on 3 parks 200 #audax" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7359/8726398055_be5b3b75bf.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
Range Rd which follows the ridge line above Bowral and Mittagong has a few steep climbs before plunging down into the town of Mittagong, where, with 70ish kilometers up I stopped for breakfast at the Tick Tock cafe.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8726504387/" title="Photo by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Photo" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7285/8726504387_2cd70fd22c.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
From Mittagong it was downhill to Picton (more or less) though I experienced some navigational uncertainty when I took a turn off the main road to find a new and unfamiliar subdivision in my path. I'm pretty sure that it wasn't there last time, so I spent a bit of time nosing around before finding the correct turn a 1km or so back up the hwy and enjoyed the fast downhill run to Picton via many of the smaller highlands towns. During this section I was feeling very comfortable on the R3, it was predictable, comfortable and when I pushed down on the pedals it went forward.<br />
<br />
I stopped for lunch at a Cafe in Picton and chatted with an older couple about wildflowers in Western Australia, while I enjoyed my pie and coffee. As the next section of the ride was going to be a bit lumpy, I was in no hurry to get away, especially as I had quite a bit of time in the bank despite the climb of Macquarie Pass and getting lost earlier.<br />
<br />
Eventually I dragged myself away and once again found my rythm while enjoying the ride of the Cervelo on increasingly broken road surfaces. Once over the rollers on Menangle Rd, I turned right into Douglas Park for the dread Gorge. From the bottom the Hume Freeway bridge towers above, so I stopped for a photo and then commenced the climb. It's not especially long, but has grades of 25% and above for short sections, so I was glad to make the top.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8726789077/" title="Douglas park gorge #audax by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Douglas park gorge #audax" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7317/8726789077_2c113e54a7.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<br />
By Broughton Pass things were becoming a bit overcast
with clouds scudding in from the north and the breeze beginning to lift. Nothing too dramatic but while I had afternoon tea at Appin I was wondering if I was to get wet, especially with the most hectic section of the ride coming up between Appin and Bulli Tops to traverse, I was hoping for good conditions.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8726879891/" title="Broughton Pass #audax by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Broughton Pass #audax" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7377/8726879891_d238c3820c.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
The trip acorss to the tops was dry but busy and the crossing of Loddon Creek on the single lane shoulderless bridge was heaertstopping, but nevertheless survivable. As I turned onto the old Princes Hwy I felt the first few drops of rain and before long I found wet road and then rain that kept me company through to Stanwell Tops.<br />
<br />
Rain aside, I was on the homeward leg now -with a tailwind to boot - and with more time up my sleeve than I normally do, I pulled into Bulli for second afternoon tea and an energy sustaining caramel slice before cranking out the 10kms left for home<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8728241994/" title="Bulli, 7km to go on 3 parks and I was feeling peckish #audax by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Bulli, 7km to go on 3 parks and I was feeling peckish #audax" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7324/8728241994_9bf7250866.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Riding up the hill towards home I coasted into the driveway just on 5pm. A little damp, but pretty happy with the day's riding and very impressed with the R3. Later I was surprised by how fresh I felt and put that down mostly to the bike.<br />
<br />
The ride data told me that I spent 8hrs 31 minutes at an average speed of 24.7kph which meant I spent two hours stuffing my face and taking photos. Quite a nice day out really.<br />
<br />
Mileage in Kilometers = 4337Granthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12337801641101641763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1372147147640921603.post-42238632243983644772013-05-09T15:45:00.000+10:002013-05-09T15:45:14.359+10:00Riverina Romp 600<br />
Last weekend I had a go at the <a href="http://ridewithgps.com/routes/1671461" target="_blank">Riverina Romp 600</a> organised by the ACT Audax riders and starting in Yass. It was going to be my longest ride for some time and while I am yet to complete a 400, my form on the Opperman 24hour ride had given me a bit of confidence and I really want to complete a super series this year and was fast running out of 600km rides.<br />
<br />
My luck had changed as the weather forecast for the weekend was excellent and I was feeling pretty good and the bike was in good fettle. Everything was there for a good ride.<br />
<br />
The route was to take us northwest from Yass to Boorowa then west to Young, Stockbingal and Temora before heading south through Coolamon and then to the overnight stop at Wagga Wagga. The second day was via back roads to Bethungra and then to Cootamundra before heading over the range to Harden, back into Boorowa and then back to Yass via Binnalong.<br />
<br />
<br />
I arrived in Yass just on sunset on Friday evening, found my room at the motel and before long had met Bob the organiser and was enjoying dinner at the Swaggers restaurant with some of the other riders.Amongst them were Grahame, Russell (who was part of the oppy team) and Cribby from Tenterfield. Dinner done I retired to my room and slept well until the alarm went off at 5am. Phone told me it was 2.5c so I layered up and drove to the start at the Yass Service Centre.<br />
<br />
<br />
The riders soon massed at the start and the field was expanded by riders from Canberra and Wagga Wagga so we made a peloton of about 11 as we headed off, not knowing anyone very well and in the dark I was happy to follow the blinking lights and adjust to the pace. From the start the ACT approach was clear, stick together and stay efficient and we bunched towards Boorowa with some concern for Russell who had dropped off (he had punctured both wheels we later found out and had to drop out). As we rode, the sun slowly rose and provided a welcome relief to the cold and moist air, though at one point we crested a hill to find a spectacular inversion effect spread across a valley, with mist below us. Inevitably we dropped back down into this valley to lose the sun but the view was great from the top. <br />
<br />
<br />
I required a nature stop at Boorowa and then found myself on my own for a bit on the road to Young. The sun rose higher and I stopped to strip off some layers before catching up with the group in Young.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8684960800/" title="Just outside Young #audax by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Just outside Young #audax" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8379/8684960800_984bf1f6b6.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
I sculled a coffee and then left with the others who after a few hills formed an orderly bunch, Anthony acting as Captain and keeping us in line. Along this road I chatted to Cassie who as a twice finisher of RAAM I held in some awe and was soon introduced into the finer points of riding with this bunch taking a turn on the front for what seemed like hours before getting some advice from Anthony. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8684167501/" title="Photo by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Photo" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8543/8684167501_86943c19ca.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
We rolled along, into a headwind and soon made Stockbingal where we stopped and enjoyed elevenses at the cafe with homemade cakes and quite fine coffee.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8684167795/" title="Stockbingal by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Stockbingal" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8533/8684167795_d8c674b3c0.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
From there, well fueled and joined by Michael, we made an orderly train along the mostly flat roads towards Temora and then turned to enjoy a tailwind towards our dinner checkpoint at Coolamon. The weather was wonderful and we enjoyed a glorious sunset shortly before riding into the town and finding the control set up and ready to feed at a small park.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8685697168/" title="Sunset #audax by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Sunset #audax" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8542/8685697168_d0e787e449.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
From Coolamon to Wagga Wagga was only 70ish km along back roads and we again rode on in a bunch, watching the moon rise full and orange into the sky. Fatigue was beginning to become a factor and we spread apart on the dark roads but by the time we were in the outer suburbs of Wagga Wagga everyone was rolling togther and we were soon at our respective hotels/houses by 9.15. The days riding had seen me accomplish my fastest 200 and 300s and I was very pleased to see a nice chunk of time for resting in a comfy bed, with a planned starting time of 4am in the morning.<br />
<br />
After a shower, I prepared things for the next day, packed my dirty kit into a post pack for mailing home and set the alarm for 3.30am and was soon asleep. And then, it seemed after I had closed my eyes, the alarm was ringing and it was time to get up.<br />
<br />
Pulling up at the arranged place, Grahame was already waiting and before ,ong we were joined by Tom and toegther we began the second day of the ride, in the cold and dark, dodgy errant kangaroos as they bounced fleetingly into the beams of our headlights.<br />
<br />
The going was tough for me during this stage, I was tired, cold and miserable. The brain kept wanting me to stop and sleep by the side of the road and I fell behind the others only catching them when they halted to clarify a route turning. I perservered howevr, there was nowhere to stop and the only way I could conceivably get home, other than on my bike, was from Cootamundra, which was 120kms away.<br />
<br />
After about 2 hours of struggling the dawn began to break and as the landscape lightened so did I, until the first rays of the sun did their warming work and before too long I was feeling happier and strong again.<br />
<br />
We easily identified the various information controls along this section, stopped briefly in Bethungra to delayer and top up water and enjoyed a long chat with a garrulous gentleman who provided some good advice about the route ahead. <br />
<br />
We soon found ourselves climbing, short but steep rollers and after a brisk descent were in Cootamundra by 11.30am, back in front of the clock and ready for brunch.<br />
<br />
Leaving Cootamundra, Tom indicated that he would press on as he wanted to be home early and left Grahame and me in his wake as we commenced the increasingly difficult climb up onto the Great Dividing Range.<br />
<br />
We found ourselves in a sequence of rolling hills, were we would ascend for 1km and descend for 1 km slowly gaining more and more height as we went east. It was hard work and the day had turned quite warm making the going at times tough but we eventually worked our way up to 600m and made it into Harden for the 3rd last control, surprisingly we had made up a bit of time as well.<br />
<br />
The wind was no freshening, but thankfully it was behind us our slightly cross for most of the next stage back to Boorowa. Again we climbed and descended and climbed again and our stop at Boorowa was the beginning of the end, only 90kms more to travel so we were able to enjoy the late afternoon and early evening before riding into the penultimate control at Binnalong just on dusk.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8688511042/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Nearly done #audax by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Nearly done #audax" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7053/8688511042_48ae3c95ce.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
With darkness now descending
the remaing 37kms to Yass was not without adventure. The route was forced to transit along Burly Griffin Way, a very busy road with some long rolling hills and inadequate shoulder, but thankfully we soon turned off that road before rejoining the Hume Freeway for the last few kilometers to the finish.<br />
<br />
As luck would have it, about 4kms out I flatted (first and I think only one for the ride) but this was soon repaired (and thnaks to the unkown cyclist who stopped in his car to offer the use of his track pump and tools) and we were soon at the service centre, cards signed and stamped and more than pleased with the weekends riding.<br />
<br />
I enjoyed the ride so much, that I rewarded myself with a new bicycle, a Cervelo R3. I shall take it on it's maiden audax ride soon.Granthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12337801641101641763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1372147147640921603.post-69428823583813655522013-04-17T11:19:00.000+10:002013-04-17T11:19:18.349+10:00Getting used to the piesAfter surviving my manflu I wasn't anticipating any heroic riding this weekend. In fact I had committed to some extracurricular work activities (which involved driving a mini loader) so was less than optimistic about riding too far.<br />
<br />
Saturday morning I rode with Ben on our Asquith St loop and varied it with a new segment through Mangerton, and then I spent a solid 5 hours at the controls of the loader shifting railway sleepers and building garden beds. The loader was fast though, and by the end of the day the planned weekends work was done. Cue Barry's email that he was riding up through the gong on route to the Pie Shop with his triathalon club and would I like to meet up?<br />
<br />
I thought that I would, perhaps not all the way but at least some of it so I arranged to meet at 8.30am at the Harbour and set off from there with the group of about 25 other riders. Apart from Barry I didn't know anyone but chatted along as we cruised through the flat lands around the Lake and towards Albion Park. Bunch riding is always an interesting experience, some riders have impeccable discipline, other's less so and I worked to avoid to swervey wobbly riders, admired a nice Cervelo R3 and winced at chain crossing and poor fit.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8647292554/" title="Photo by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Photo" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8541/8647292554_1ee32c5a9b.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
We stopped for water briefly at Albion Park before heading along in single file up the Illwarra Hwy towards the pass. The climbing began to string the group out a bit and as we neared the bottom of the Pass most of the club members pulled in to regroup and to contest the KOM, while I just rolled through.<br />
<br />
It was pretty warm now and the climbing was hot, and there was lots of traffic and a large number of vintage and veteran cars en route to a car show in Bowral. My inner rev head enjoyed the progression of MGs, Sunbeams, FE Holdens and the odd Jaguar. I was less enamoured of the modern motorcyclists who were racing themeselves and overtaking on blind curves however. They were just dumb.<br />
<br />
As I passed the 2 thirds point on the climb I was passed by a few of the faster triathaletes, but only a few and was soon at the Pie shop for the second time in a week, enjoying their wares and cooling my heels waiting for the others to arrive.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8647360516/" title="Photo by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Photo" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8406/8647360516_60db33a431.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Sure enough they were soon all there. Most were getting lifts back to Cronulla though a few were planning to ride back to Albion Park Rail for the train, while Barry was aiming to ride all the way home. So four of us set off for the descent and enjoyed a traffic free screamer. One of Barry's mates, Peter, dropped like a stone and we were flat out trying to keep him in sight. I learn't a lot on the way down.<br />
<br />
It was a steady roll back into town after that. The other's had some cramps and a puncture and then there was a headwind but being relatively fresh and nearer to home I enjoyed sitting on the front and tapping out a rhythm, though I'd sometimes roll off the front and have to slow down.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8647566392/" title="Nice day for a ride by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Nice day for a ride" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8100/8647566392_6b30c4a75a.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8646547283/" title="Photo by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Photo" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8114/8646547283_ae15b6f46e.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Once back into the City we rode past the Wollongong Station and Peter opted for the train for the rest of the journey while Barry carried on, arriving back home in Sutherland at about 7pm with 240kms done. I did 105 which was a pretty easy day in comparison.<br />
<br />
I quite enjoyed the ride though, a bit of variety was a treat, the waether was great and I was feeling well recovered from my cold.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Granthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12337801641101641763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1372147147640921603.post-64268826874716815532013-04-06T17:21:00.000+11:002013-04-06T17:21:06.751+11:00Tallong bridge and a bodgy bottom bracketLast week I noticed that my drivetrain was getting worn so ordered a replacement chain, cassette and bottom bracket though as the week progressed I realised that I needed the bb sooner rather than later and while climbing up Macquarie Pass this morning on the monthly 200, I was losing confidence in the bb's ability to get me all the way there and back.<br />
<br />
It had that nasty slop where the pedal would rock through a quarter turn before feeling like it was engaged with the chain. So at the top of the pass I decided to avert disaster and turn for home, but not before enjoying a pie and a ginger beer at the Robbo Pie Shop.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8623287470/" title="Photo by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Photo" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8108/8623287470_903aae0c2f.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Ben was coming with me as far as the Pie shop so with the pie onboard we both headed back for home towards a lowering sky which decided to catch us out with a downpour only 3km from home.<br />
<br />
I cycled on the bike shop and got a replacement bb and spent a happy hour cleaning bike and replacing bearings. As it turned out they were well shot, the seals had gone and water was lapping around the bearings. They'd only done 8k or so. I may need to review my maintenance schedule!<br />
<br />
On the positive side the weather radar has revealed that the route was copping a lot of rain - the stupid clouds hadn't realised I was at home and dry, So weather 0.5, me 1 , for a change.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Granthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12337801641101641763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1372147147640921603.post-13857974476290239082013-03-20T14:30:00.000+11:002013-03-20T14:30:25.572+11:00Fleche Opperman 2013My last Oppy was in 2011 and was an epic in inclement weather, in 2013 I had an opportunity to complete my 4th Oppy at relatively short notice and jumped at the chance. The team was comprised of diverse and it turned out "reduxing" riders who for one reason or another had been off the bike for a period of time (heart problems, foot problems, cramping problems, etc). I didn't know about the reduxing part until during the ride but it was going to be interesting so I said yes.<br />
<br />
The route was to take us across the north of Sydney to Hornsby and then to Fennell Bay in Lake Macquarie along the old Pacific Hwy and Expressway. From there we would return around the Lake via Morriset and Wyee before tracking into Wyong before retracing our path back through Peats Ridge and Hornsby to our sleep stop at Seaforth. The last leg was from Seaforth to Parramatta park via the harbour bridge.<br />
<br />
I had arranged to spend Friday night at Seaforth to save an early start on Saturday morning and was glad I did. Stephen's home is nestled on the shores of Middle Harbour and provided terrific and relaxing views over the water and pleasurecraft. We enjoyed a quuite evening preparing and talking bikes before heading to bed.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8559609305/" title="#oppy13 has dawned clear and fair by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="#oppy13 has dawned clear and fair" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8239/8559609305_0b767b7bfa.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
The day dawned spectacularly and by 8 o'clock the team had gathered and was organised, Philip, Russell, David, Stephen and me. We set off, Stephen leading us through the maze of streets that wook us through Seaforth and beyond. The early stages of a ride are always interesting, observing how others ride, settling in to ones own rhythm and remaining observant. The Saturday morning traffic was also heavy and we were glad to leave the relatively busy roads of suburban north Sydney for the quieter conditions along the Pacific Hwy. We were travelling along quite well together, and I was feeling strong and comfortable.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8561374424/" title="Peats Ridge 84km down #oppy13 by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Peats Ridge 84km down #oppy13" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8234/8561374424_5e45a0b3c0.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8560269563/" title="Photo by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Photo" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8384/8560269563_69e55ac8ca.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Shortly after crossing the Hawkesbury River bridge some close passing traffic froced me through a bad patch of tarmac and I pinch flatted my front tyre. No big deal (and as it turned out the only puncture on the ride) and I set to repair it aided by Philip while the others decided to ride along and start the climb up Mt White. It was a beautiful day though growing steadily warmer as the clouds burnt off. Puncture repaired Philip and I soon caught the others and we continued along the climb past Mt White and onto our first control at Peats Ridge where it was now becoming quite hot, with 30c showing on my garmin.<br />
<br />
From Peats Ridge we enjoyed a period of descent enroute to the F3 and Toronto. I was feeling pretty good and with the tailwind we were picking up some pace. Word came up that we were to make an unscheduled stop at the Service Centre at Paruna for water so we pulled in for a quick break.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8560415799/" title="Water stop at Paruna on the f3 hot but tailwind is nice. #oppy13 by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Water stop at Paruna on the f3 hot but tailwind is nice. #oppy13" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8227/8560415799_a18991bd20.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Before heading onwards for the 30kms to the Toronto exit. I was travelling at the front of the group swapping turns with David and Phillip, and we paised at the turnoff for Russell and Stephen, who was struggling a bit in the heat, to catch up.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8560550279/" title="Photo by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Photo" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8367/8560550279_3d3e5fce32.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
From the turnoff we had a good run on quieter roads to Toronto, taking a turn along the foreshore to see the cool waters of Lake Macquarie before heading to the turnaround point at Fennell Bay. I was starving so we called in at the Macdonalds for some salt and fat and it was here that Stephen succumbed to the heat, experience some heat stroke and painful cramps. At first he suggested that he wouldn't be able to carry on and we should head off, but it became clear that he needed some assistance so we hung around, called his wife and then an ambulance. We propped him on a table and amidst his pained groans applied ice to cool him down.<br />
<br />
It was a bit of a worry but as things transpired he was OK and had experienced similar issues a few times before. With Stephen tucked safely in an ambulance and on route to a clinic, his bike safely in the boot of he's wife's car, we were free to continue our journey back towards Sydney and a sleep.<br />
<br />
We were now a fair bit behind schedule and headed off into the setting sun around Lake Macquarie towards our next control at Wyong. As the sun set we fell into a strong rhythm, taking turns on the front and pulled into a relatively lifeless Wyong at about 9pm.<br />
<br />
After a quick stop at an all night service station we continued along, climbing Ourimbah Mountain on the F3 before turning off at Somersby for a return visit to Peats Ridge. The cafe's were long closed but the blutions were open so we filled up our bidons and headed back out onto the road. It was now quite late and we were getting slower and the sleep break arrival time blew out from 1am to 2am then 3am in the blinking of a microsleep. <br />
<br />
A slow 300 to be sure, but we were all together and travelling with various degrees of doggedness. And eventually, after a close encounter with a Powerful Owl at Mt White we felt renewed vigour as we sped up the Wakehurst Parkway towards Seaforth and enough time for a shower and 90 minutes of sleep.<br />
<br />
An hour and a half doesn't seem like much but I awoke refreshed to see the waters of Middle Harbour riffling in a strong breeze. Once outside again and on the bike, the breeze seemed much stronger, especially comming across the Spit, Harbour and Anzac Bridges.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8562213177/" title="Photo by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Photo" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8094/8562213177_35c02b4f1d.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
ONce the other side of Pyrmont and tracking through the inner west, the wind dropped off and we made steady progress towards Parramatta along the various cycleways. I particularly enjoyed the river path at Ryde, but not as much as I enjoyed entering Parramatta Park and tracking towards the finish.<br />
<br />
We were the second group in with 15 minutes to spare and 364kms under the wheels. Soon we were joined by the other teams who had managed a simiarl distance, longest being the Psychologists from Newcastle who completed 390km.<br />
<br />
So with Oppy number 4 completed I enjoyed a big breakfast before heading off for a couple of ferry rides back to Manly and the drive home.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8562640031/" title="Journey home after #oppy13 by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Journey home after #oppy13" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8106/8562640031_9d762470d0.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8563938304/" title="Ferry ride part 2 #oppy13 by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Ferry ride part 2 #oppy13" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8509/8563938304_7fa6a4a851.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
The scenery on the water capped the day off nicely!<br />
<br />
Mileage in Kilometers = 2404<br />
Meters climbed = 26,608Granthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12337801641101641763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1372147147640921603.post-50745460073470588042013-03-02T18:43:00.002+11:002013-03-02T18:43:42.329+11:00Royal Ride - wet windy and aloneI had been planning to ride the Gunning 400 last weekend however the ride was cancelled due to the inclement weather (there was a tornado and torrential rain) and had been tapering for that so really haven't done very much except the odd morning jaunt, some hill repeats and such.<br />
<br />
Today though I was organising the Royal Ride 200, a personal favourite of mine which takes in the beautiful coast and much of the Royal National Park. After an initial flurry of interest the usual suspects were otherwise engaged and then the early interest faded so it was just little old me for the ride.<br />
<br />
Again, the weather was looking poor, forecast of scattered showers and southerly winds to 55kph and when I awoke, it was raining and I really had to push myself out of the door.<br />
<br />
The route commences with a loop around Lake Illawarra and I was pleased to see that the roads were dry once I cleared the bulk of Mt Kembla. The wind was also pretty benign at this early stage and things went well. There was a bit of shower at Windang and the wind was picking up but by this time it was on my rear quarter so was an added benefit.<br />
<br />
Before long I was up Bald Hill and descending into the Royal National Park. The roads were wet but inside the park I was sheltered from the wind, though there were occasional showers every now and then.<br />
<br />
The various creeks and rivers in the park were running and made a delightful sound and site as I rode along<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8519157077/" title="Toonuum falls by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Toonuum falls" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8532/8519157077_4e8265a86a.jpg" width="500" /></a> <br />
<br />
A few showers passed over, but I had decided to wear my merino long sleeve jersey and it dried well after the showers and did a good job of keeping me warm. Especially as I had now climbed up to the main ridge of the park and was heading towards Bundeena for the halfway point and lunch.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8519168379/" title="Bundeena - half way by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Bundeena - half way" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8517/8519168379_dd4072bb36.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
I enjoyed a chicken burger at the "pasho" before heading back up the
hill and on to Audley. The rain came again in waves, this time a little
more concentrated on where I was before passing. The weir at Audley was
open but high.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8520469300/" title="Photo by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Photo" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8111/8520469300_279628a845.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<br />
From here I had a short steep climb up before turning back for home along the Hwy and into the wind for a short while before descending back into the park from Waterfall.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8519413511/" title="Photo by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Photo" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8366/8519413511_ea05c1c788.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Crossing the bridge at the bottom of the descent the river was looking more swollen than before. I carried on, sheltered from wind now, but I could hear it in the trees every now and then. It wasn't long though before I heard a new sound, looking ahead I saw sheeting rain, racing towards me. Oh well I thought another scattered shower, but It wasn't and for the next 30kms I was caught in a very dense downpour. The road was soon running with water and I could only plug along into it.<br />
<br />
Topping out at Bald Hill it was foggy, windy and very wet. I was nearly blown over as I entered the lookout and took shelter in the amenties to refill my bidons and listen to the howling in the eaves.<br />
<br />
The descent of Bald Hill was a tentative affair, I just wanted to make it down without falling and from there I just had to grind it out. The sea cliff bridge put on a show, with waves crashing beneath, and rain and wind thrashing above. I was glad to clear it and then focus on the remaining familiar and less weather thrashed road home.<br />
<br />
By the time I got to Sandon point I turned to see what I had just ridden through.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8520689420/" title="Just rode through that cloud by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Just rode through that cloud" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8235/8520689420_065d44608e.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
And was glad it was nearly over.I still had 20km to go plugging into the wind and frequent squalls but I was already wet through and the more it rained the less I heard the drive train squeaking in protest so I soon found myself rounding the bend for home, a warm shower and a beer.<br />
<br />
Despite the weather, or perhaps because of it, I really enjoyed the ride, I even managed to complete it in under 9 hours which is one of my faster 200s.<br />
<br />
Mileage in Kms = 1785<br />
Climbing in Meters = 20,622Granthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12337801641101641763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1372147147640921603.post-49857265736817759422013-02-10T22:11:00.000+11:002013-02-10T22:11:49.885+11:00New Shoes<br />
The quest for the perfect pair of shoes really knows no bounds and on Friday I picked up a pair of wide fit Bont Vaypors.<br />
<br />
They look the goods and a 70km ride on Saturday with poorly aligned cleats showed them to be quite comfortable though I am yet to heat mold them. They are much lighter than the current workhorse Sidis and very stiff.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8456982082/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="New shoes by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="New shoes" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8531/8456982082_0a59f3a1f9.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I hope to sort them out during the week and use them in anger a couple of times before the Gunning 400 at the end of the month.<br />
<br />
Saturday's ride saw Ben and I head north to intersect with Barry as he came south. We rode up to Bald Hill and then with Barry safely met, we returned to the gong for second breakfast at North gong<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8456981770/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Photo by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Photo" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8368/8456981770_790120683e.jpg" width="500" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8457218648/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Photo by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Photo" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8108/8457218648_8544a733a9.jpg" width="500" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This morning I headed out with Harvey for a clockwise Lake Loop taking in Hill 60 and a detour up O'Briens road, which is steep and at least today, hot. The view from Hill 60 was typically refreshing though.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8458543953/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Photo by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Photo" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8235/8458543953_899fd2a999.jpg" width="500" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
With today's ride I surpassed my 200km goal for the week and find myself sitting on 1,348km for the year with 14,912m climbed. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
To celebrate I cleaned the Roubaix and even gave it a coat of wax. Shiny bike to match the shiny shoes.</div>
Granthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12337801641101641763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1372147147640921603.post-72336938818567273282013-02-03T08:50:00.000+11:002013-02-03T08:50:23.888+11:00Berry Mountain 200We are bound by our concept of what is possible. An as far as Wollongong Audax goes this is true. We had a series of tried and true rides or variations of them that concentrated on roads west, and sometimes north of the Illawarra. However late last year, my friend and fellow audax member Shane ventured south beyond the southern Kiama barrier and had himself some fun on a few climbs down that way. I reckoned if it was possible to get south of the bends, a 200 or 3 would open up and we would have some new routes to enjoy.<br />
<br />
So with Shane's experiences to hand, the advice of some locals and a thirst for the new I conceived the Berry Mountain 200 as a first foray into the deep south.<br />
<br />
So as a new route, there are wrinkles to iron out, but otherwise the ride was as challenging and enjoyable as a good audax ride should be. Travelling through diverse countryside, regulated farming, urban, national park, wooded climbs coastal and flat estaurine plain the route demonstrates the geographical diversity of this thin strip of land along the Pacific Ocean.<br />
<br />
Poetic route design aside, practically the days ride was looking bad. The weather forecast promised rain, chance of storms and strong southerly winds. All of which turned out to be true. It was also very cold (for February - actually it was very cold for August) though we were committed to the ride.<br />
<br />
5 riders had expressed an interest though the prevailing weather mean't that just Shane and I would attempt the ride, Ben and Harvey decided to come along as far as Gerringong before heading back and Barry thought better of it before driving the 100km from Sydney at 4.30am.<br />
<br />
So from the start the forecast strong southerly winds were there. As I rode from home to the start at Dapto I had to push hard into strong gusts.As the day wore on, the gusts would only get stronger. Luckily things stayed pretty dry until we passed through Jamberoo and were on the way to Kiama.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8439457918/" title="Berry Mountain 200 by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Berry Mountain 200" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8470/8439457918_92dfe4edf2.jpg" width="375" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8439458786/" title="Berry Mountain 200 by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Berry Mountain 200" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8233/8439458786_5d5d267d8b.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
From here the rain got steadily worse and we were happy to arrive at the controle at the Gerringong Ice Creamery for a bit of dryness, second breakfast and coffee.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8438372727/" title="Berry Mountain 200 by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Berry Mountain 200" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8082/8438372727_7fd4d15d08.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
It was here that Ben and Harvey turned back and Shane and I pressed on into the weather and the (for me at least) unknown.<br />
<br />
Once through Gerroa the road flattens out before we turned right to make the undulating passage to Berry. Here we found some shelter from the wind and the rain backed off a touch given us a nice respite. Arriving in Berry we detoured around the back of the town avoiding the traffic and were soon starting to climb. Not familiar with the route and tangled in my spray shell I bid Shane adieu as he rode away, catching glimpses of him at the switchbacks. The climb was not particularly steep, through the corners were, with grade increasing to 18% for short stretches. Nearing the top the road swung back out into the wind and I learn't to appreciate the protection the hill had been giving me for the last 20 minutes.<br />
<br />
After making it to the top of Berry Mountain I was able to extricate myself from the oven of the jacket just in time to start dropping a bit of height along tourist road and for the rain to start up again. It was along here that the Garmin route map began to experience confusion and it continued to insist that I was off course, before finding it again. Not knowing the road, it was a bit disconcerting, especially when turning at the well signposted road to the summit lookout it was insisting that I make a u turn. Nearing the summit, I'd clearly entered into cloud base, as the rain intensified and visibility began to reduce. The single lane road had a bit of traffic too, as sightseers retreated from the weather in their 4wds, but before long I was at the top and enjoying the view!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8439459774/" title="Berry Mountain 200 by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Berry Mountain 200" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8215/8439459774_5d460bf34a.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
The descent was good, after a few more undulations we turned onto the Moss Vale Rd, with it's large warning signs of long steep descent ahead flashing past. As escarpment descents go, this is a beauty, not as technical as some, and quite exposed at times so you can both build up considerable speed while taking in the vista. As we'd dropped back below cloud base the road was dry and we sped on to Nowra.<br />
<br />
Navigating through the traffic at Nowra was shortlived and we were soon traversing the coastal flats dominated by cows and corn enroute to the turnaround point at Greenwell Point. It was here that we experienced the worst of the wind, as we met it head on and unprotected by any geography. Eventually we made it and the cafe at the end of town made for a welcome respite from the weather and a huge meal, before we once again set off out into the wind.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8438373623/" title="Berry Mountain 200 by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Berry Mountain 200" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8506/8438373623_98d3a9d04e.jpg" width="375" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8437178574/" title="Photo by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Photo" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8195/8437178574_5e60755f44.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
I had been anticipating that the return leg would be easier, however the wind had contrived to strengthen and veer, so it was another hard slog back to Nowra and across the river were we saw the local sailing club enjoying the conditions. We turned out towards Shoalhaven heads, still finding the wind, and the stench of fermenting sugar at the Manildra ethanol plant not to our liking. Though it was now drying up and we occasionally saw some patches of blue sky. Soon, but not too soon, we had cleared the heads and now more protected by vegetation we enjoyed a tailwind back up to Gerroa. However it was along here that my garmin decided to switch off so I missed a few kilometers. <br />
<br />
Our last planned stop was at the Gerroa Caravan Park cafe, which had a pleasant ambience enhanced by a chicken who kept curious sentry at the front door. Shortly before we left a family came in with a clearly distressed little boy. He had stubbed his toe and they were in search of a bandaid. Happily I carry a stripped out first aid kit on longer rides and more happily have not yet had to use it on myself and I was happy to lend a hand.<br />
<br />
Back on the bikes we traversed through Gerringong, and down onto the Princes Hwy where the wind was again gusting strongly, but thankfully from behind and it wasn't too long before we were streaking back along the hwy for home. Nearing Shellharbour I felt the rear tyre go down, and on closer inspection found a staple stuck through the tube, but this was quickly repaired and we continued along through Albion Park to arrive at Dapto Station at 5.45.<br />
<br />
Despite the weather, it was a very enjoyable day out, quite tough at times, but that is as it should be. I'm looking forward to riding it again. <br />
<br />
<br />Granthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12337801641101641763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1372147147640921603.post-12699873224985898262013-01-28T17:24:00.001+11:002013-01-29T22:06:38.659+11:00Bright and the AACEvery Australia day long weekend the Audax Club run a series of rides out of Bright in the Victorian Alps know as the Alpine Classic.<br />
<br />
In previous years I have attempted both the shorter long distances, of 130km and 140km and this year I thought I'd have a crack at the 200km ride. A key feature of these rides are the challenging Alpine roads, long climbs and in January, heat.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, in the week leading up to the event a lightning strike started a bushfire near Harrietville which was unfortunate as the ACE 250 route went through there, the AAC 200 went around there and I had booked my accomodation there.<br />
<br />
Nevertheless, come Thursday the car is packed and we optimistically set forth after a call to the Motel said that everything was fine, we would see the fire but there was no immediate danger.<br />
<br />
So we drove on, checking in occassionally with email and twitter to see how things were going. We learn't as we stopped at Holbrook for a play on the submarine, that the route had now been changed to reflect the fires impact and advice from authorities, it was now to be a 3 repeat of Buffalo for 210km.<br />
<br />
Oh, OK. Called the motel again, are you sure everything's OK? Yes, it's fine, the media is exagerating come on up!<br />
<br />
So a few hours later we were driving towards a smokey Harrietville but so far so good. We checked into our Motel and then spent the afternoon and early evening looking at the fire as it lazed down the mountain side about 1km away.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDhoA6dkrnbiWyipd34YeFckOujyLlrQRDNCLwt6oSgGaBfFnmv6-kT8Mp_MvjCN6_WbHM4-nkgGyFY5bkoRKoPiQDJUmqTUaTW7IPbioqmeAfA1NOo9WX7Af5O9eC04MatSp_ANQYEpX6/s1600/DSC_0021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDhoA6dkrnbiWyipd34YeFckOujyLlrQRDNCLwt6oSgGaBfFnmv6-kT8Mp_MvjCN6_WbHM4-nkgGyFY5bkoRKoPiQDJUmqTUaTW7IPbioqmeAfA1NOo9WX7Af5O9eC04MatSp_ANQYEpX6/s320/DSC_0021.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
After an anxious night (moderated by an excellent smoked trout pizza at the Hotel) we decided to leave and try our luck in Bright. Happily, the first place we called had a room available ( a direct effect of the fire and people withdrawing from the ride) so we were now safe and set for action.<br />
<br />
That afternoon I decided to try a descent from Buffalo, reasoning that I can climb a rough road safely enough, descending is a bit different. We drove to the top and I set off and was soon passed by Sue at the Lake but when I arrived at the bottom Sue had only just beat me down in the car, so with that accomplished we enjoyed the sights and sounds and food of Bright and relaxed.<br />
<br />
Next morning I took a flat, earlyish, run out to Myrtleford after thunderstorms passed through early in the morning. I was surprised by the smoke which lay in the valley but as the morning wore on and the wind lifted, it cleared. We then relaxed amongst the Bonjour Bright festivities, heard a great French band and relaxed in the river and the pool at the Motel. Later we had dinner at the Ginger House which was awesome and then retired early for the ride.<br />
<br />
I was up before the sparrpws, prepped and ready to go - so got a good starting position in the first wave of riders. Unusually, I felt relaxed and interested in how things would go and passed the time chatting with other riders, a guy on his first AAC (hope he did well) the guy on the shiny Moulton (as distinct from the guy on the red Moulton - 2 Moultons!!). The start went smoothly and a rush of blood to the head had me in a large and fast bunch rocketing away down the Alpine Hwy towards the climb. It is always a nervous time, joining a fast bunch of whom one knows nothing. You have to make quick assessments about who is safe to follow and your senses are taught ready to react to the least input. Not far down the road, there was the loud pop of a tyre blowout. As I was on the outside, I veered away, as did the guys in front of me to make room for the rapidly decelerating cyclist heading our way. Disaster averted, we powered on, through the roundabout and towards the Hill.<br />
<br />
As the road started to tilt upwards the bunch began to fragment, I was beginning to feel the effort so when clear I pulled inside to let the faster riders past and to adjust to my own conservative rhythm for the climb. Once I had settled into my rhythm I found the going along quite to my likeing. It was cool and I the views were tremendous and the passing company pleasant and cheerful. Before long I found myself riding past Waterland and not long after that Dingo Dell hove into view. After a quick stop, ate a bit, refilled bidons and cleaned glasses, it was on for the descent.<br />
<br />
I was a bit nervous about how this would go, as we had been warned at the beginning to expect traffic and be conservative, however after a few turns I found myself in open space and let things roll as they would. My earlier reconnaissance paid off as I tracked around the fast corners and recognised the tricky bits and slowed down responsibly. I passed quite a few less confident descenders and arrived back in Bright at 9.33am. 2 hours and 13 minutes for a lap. Awesome!<br />
<br />
At Bright I had a quick bite to eat and then headed back up. The fast bunches of the first run had now given way to a steady stream of riders and as the temperature was starting to rise, I soon recognised that the second lap was going to be a bit slower. Quite a bit slower as it turned out. To the heat, my back was beginning to ache and no amount of standing and stretching seemed to help. I kept plugging away but was starting to experience all of the signs of bonking, cramps gripped my thighs and speed was dropping ever lower. I stopped once to suck down a gel before rolling into Waterland to drink and get sprayed. I grabbed an endurolyte tablet and again resumed my struggle with the mountain. By now the incipient cramps had become full blown wobblers and I yelled out loud a few times as I pushed through them. At long last I made it to the dell, at 12.33, some 2 hours and 40 minutes since leaving Bright. I sat for a while, did some stretching and eating and feeling a little better set off for the descent once more.<br />
<br />
Again I enjoyed the ride down, passed a heap of people but once at the bottom and needing to push along things weren't looking so good. Legs were again cramping and my back, despite a few NSAIDs was complaining out loud. It was also much hotter now with temperatures on the lower slopes sitting around 35c and I saw quite a lot of riders stopped, slumped over their machines, or lying dramatically by the side of the road, however the roadside had sprouted a number of enthusiastic cheer squads who lifted my spirits greatly and I was able to push on back into Bright at 2.05pm.<br />
<br />
However it was there, with the brewery on my right and the cool river on my left that I had a long hard look at myself and decided that another ascent was not a realistic option, legs were twitching, back was aching, head was spinning. <br />
<br />
The two laps themselves weren't anything to sneeze at, 145km and 2780m of climbing and I enjoyed a beer and a swim in the pool (and some more cramps) afterwards. Just now, my back is quietly telling me that I did the right thing, while my thighs have the ache they only get when they are learning, it's a good ache.<br />
<br />
Later we caught up with a few friends and celebrated their achievements. It really was quite an extraordinary weekend. <br />
<br />
So next year can't come too soon. I've already booked the accommodation!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Granthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12337801641101641763noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1372147147640921603.post-9528607286647907022013-01-05T19:02:00.002+11:002013-01-05T19:02:51.103+11:00First week of the year<br />
Well so far so good. This last week I've ridden 273km and climbed about 2900m and the rest of the month is looking to be a big un, with the Tallowa Dam ride next saturday and the Alpine Classic at the end of the month.<br />
<br />
Have done a couple of pre work rides this week, a fast blast up to Clifton and some intervals on the Gun Club hill.<br />
<br />
Yesterday I shouted the roubaix some new bar tape and got a new pair of look cleats for my shoes which were getting down to stubs. So everything is now looking ship shape and comfy. <br />
<br />
This morning we headed off to the Robbo Pie Shop in mild conditions and enjoyed the climb of the Pass, though felt tired from the exertions of the week (the interval session yesterday took a lot out of me) and as the temperature climbed past 30c I was beginning to feel it. Generally I feel that my physical resilience is suffering without my weekly yoga class but that will change soon when the new term commences in a couple of weeks otherwise conditions were pretty tough.<br />
<br />
I still managed my fastest climb of the Mountain to date however the ride back in the heat and into a headwind was difficult and I felt quite stuffed by the time I got home with about 96km under the wheels. Stuffed enough to not be stuffed to ride the extra 4km to round it up to 100! As the morning turned to afternoon my throat has started to ache and I'm feeling a bit febrile so am planning to have a rest for the next few days and enjoy the memories.<br />
<br />
Mileage in Km = 228<br />
Meters up = 2478Granthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12337801641101641763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1372147147640921603.post-18359259092063286872013-01-01T08:08:00.002+11:002013-01-01T08:08:16.303+11:002012 Wrap upNow that 2013 has officially begun it is time to reflect on the numbers from 2012. There's a few more numbers now, as technology has moved on and I can now get a good indication of vertical distance as well as time and horizontal.<br />
<br />
There weren't any specific goals for the year, other than to get riding again and complete 6000km for the year.<br />
<br />
I ended up with a total of 6726km, spread out of 148 rides and approximately 65,000m climbed and about 300hrs in the saddle. Twice I managed to ride over 1000km in a month with December the most active with 1139km, closely followed by October with 1006. In April and November I rode over 800km, however the rest of the year was patchy as I struggled with my foot. Since the operation in August however, things have been coming back together nicely. In fact I managed just under 50% of my annual total in the last 3 months of the year. I've also lost about 15kgs which has had a dramatic impact on my cycling, especially my climbing. I have really come to enjoy climbing, which is quite a change!<br />
<br />
I did complete a couple of Strava challenges - the 800km challenge in April, the 79 mile challenge in October and most recently the Festive 500. Completed a few BRMs, including the Berrima ride (twice), The Royal Ride and the Coastal 200. I also completed at least one 100km or longer ride every month.<br />
<br />
I've also started mountain biking which is great fun and provides a nice alternative to road riding and is a great way to improve bike handling and overall fitness. <br />
<br />
So while the year was mixed, there were some dark moments in there, I've come through 2012 with a renewed cycling vigour and hopes for a slightly more consistent 2013. Hopefully I can continue the momentum of the last 3 months throughout 2013.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Granthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12337801641101641763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1372147147640921603.post-13160788668198928642012-12-30T16:08:00.000+11:002012-12-30T16:08:02.516+11:00Festive 500 Finished<br />
Finished off the festive 500 today with a relatively short 42km ride.<br />
<br />
It's been an interesting week, with fatigue becoming a constant friend. It was, however, a really good challenge and despite the aching muscles I enjoyed the riding which included a long run into the National Park, a commute to work over the pass, an 80 kay lake loop, a 37 km dirt ride and a couple of shorter runs up the coast to round out the numbers. It was good to push myself that little bit harder to get over the line.<br />
<br />
So I will likely get another ride in tomorrow but so far its 512km with 5253m climbed and 22hours in the saddle.Granthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12337801641101641763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1372147147640921603.post-91000683228732185482012-12-24T17:29:00.003+11:002012-12-24T17:29:45.110+11:00Festive 500For the last year now I have been having fun with <a href="http://www.strava.com/">Strava</a> which if you hadn't heard is a web site that you can upload your gps tracks of rides, compare them to other riders, on the route or on particular segments. Strava is pretty good at tracking your performance and from that angle has been working well for me. I also enjoy the supportive community aspect of it, where you can comment and give kudos for effort.<br />
<br />
They also have occasional challenges and the most recent and perhaps the most daunting is the Rapha Festive 500. You must ride 500kms between Christmas Eve and New Years Eve, or about 75km per day. If you complete the challenge you will receive a natty patch from <a href="http://www.rapha.com/">Rapha</a> .<br />
<br />
Today was the first day and hoping to get off to a good start, Ben and Harvey and I set off for a run up to the National Park, thinking to go for about 120kms or so. Early on we realised that time was precious so cut it short to a hundred to Waterfall and back.<br />
<br />
After clearing central Wollongong we spied a large bunch ahead, bedecked in Santa hats, being led by a riding in full santa suit. Hilarious we thought so sped up to catch them. We eventually did after a chain drop and the wrong phasing at lights for about 5 minutes beore our paths diverged and we headed north for Bald Hill and the RNP.<br />
<br />
We made pretty good time and were soon enjoying the heat and humidity at the top of the hill beneath to Hargreave monument. The tap is excellent<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtNuV2msi4mUTvnsS3FgUJLpnltJEMUZK5ezTu5Jl_v1klLv_FRt_DLdFYc7dsmku8TnV59Dt7e9K4Exss2t-L5r15frRUOF7vqCQxUM4B1S4uCDmnl2BPu_94sBHIoVgH7XifHGexU6sb/s1600/Ben&Harveybaldhill.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtNuV2msi4mUTvnsS3FgUJLpnltJEMUZK5ezTu5Jl_v1klLv_FRt_DLdFYc7dsmku8TnV59Dt7e9K4Exss2t-L5r15frRUOF7vqCQxUM4B1S4uCDmnl2BPu_94sBHIoVgH7XifHGexU6sb/s320/Ben&Harveybaldhill.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
From there we plunged back into the cool of the National Park, enjoying a rapid descent until we turned to climb up to Waterfall. I had not ridden this climb before so took it easy as Harvey raced away. It wasn't too bad but the last 1000m or so get a bit steep so I was glad to see Harvey just below the commuter carpark so slugged on up. Turning at the top I noticed a familiar vehicle and cyclist in the carpark and stopped to chat with Barry M who was planning a quick ride through to Garie and back up as part of his AAC training.<br />
<br />
We chatted for a bit before setting off down the hill and parting at the bottom of Lady Wakehurst Dr as we turned back towards home and Barry turned on towards Garie.<br />
<br />
Riding in the RNP is lovely and today was great, with very light vehicular traffic - saw more cyclists than cars or motos and lovely cool conditions. Chatted with another rider about 29er mtbs (he was riding one and I want one!) and various spun and mashed our way out of the park. As we reached the top of the climb and got back out into the sun we again found it very warm and I was glad most of the climbing was behind us.<br />
<br />
The ride back home was uneventful, and had a tailwind, so saw a few extended efforts to improve segment times where I could. At the end of the ride we had completed 100+kms, 102 for me so that's only 398km more to ride for the festive 500.<br />
<br />
My plan from here is a short ride on Christmas day and Boxing day then commute to work on Thursday and Friday which should have me sitting around 410km. I'm planning to ride a 35km audax dirt series ride on Saturday and then that leaves the remainder to be ridden on the last two days of the challenge. Maybe a bit further if my mates need encouragement.<br />
<br />
Mileage in Km = 6270<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Granthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12337801641101641763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1372147147640921603.post-43208978080051944792012-12-16T17:09:00.001+11:002012-12-16T17:09:20.592+11:00Meryla ExplorationI've ditched quantity for quality and today rode 52 awesome kilometers with Shane recce-ing his audax dirt ride From Fitzroy Falls, down through Meryla to Kangaroo valley. We decided to forego the car shuffle and take only one vehicle and ride back up Barrengarry as good Alpine Classic preparation. <br /><br />The dirt bit was great, after a bit of exploration, and startling some Wallabies, we were able to find a side track that led us through the Falls lookouts and up to the fire trail and from there down into the valley. for a great descent and creek crossing watched by a Goanna and a water dragon. We paused for photos -<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8276006335/" title="Meryla ride by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Meryla ride" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8347/8276006335_face65aab5.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8277066302/" title="Meryla ride by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Meryla ride" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8076/8277066302_3cf2acdf72.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br />From the creek we had a bit o' climbing to get out of the valley. Shane aced it, while I lost concentration and lifted the front wheel and had to walk the last 100 or so metres to the gate. From there we undulated along (it's all downhill from here says Shane) until we found bitumen and headed to the end of the route at the Barrengarry Pie shop, where we had a well earned pie and long cold drink.<br /><br />It was getting close to midday and it was really getting warm as we headed off to get back to the car. My Garmin had the temperature topping out at 42 as we approached Barrengarry Mountain. We encountered 3 broken down vehicles on the side of the road as we made our way up, all overheated and got to watching the NRMA guy drive up and down the pass rescuing them. We also encountered a lot of positive support from motorists, both the broken and the mobile during the ascent. I'm sure they thought we were mad.<br /><br />It was a tough and slow climb on the MTBs but as with all things, it passed - and we were soon at the car most satisfied with the days riding. Driving back, we watched the outside temperature climb as we descended Macquarie Pass until we arrived at Shane's place for 37c, and we both glad for the cars air con.<br />
<br />
We'll be back in a couple of weeks to ride it officially.Granthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12337801641101641763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1372147147640921603.post-89157810106902226252012-12-08T21:44:00.002+11:002012-12-08T21:44:56.358+11:00Jamberoo, it's where you control the actionIndeed, to quote the popular amusement park, though action is relative I guess.<br />
<br />
Earlier this week I proposed, in a Tolkienesque manner to a few likely suspects that a climbing of Jamberoo mountain road was in order.<br />
<br />
It's the last of the local escarpment passes to wear my name and as an AAC preparation was non pareil. Early enthusiasm was dampened by reality so only Harvey and I set out at 6am this morning to tame the beast.<br />
<br />
The climb start about 30km from my place and the approach includes some very familiar roads plus the added advantage of going over Mt Terry and past the action park before turning off Jamberoo Rd onto Jamberoo Mountain road.<br />
<br />
Having driven up the road a few times to walk at Barren Grounds and reversed the climb on my bike a couple of times I knew that it was steep for the first few kilometers and defficult after that.<br />
<br />
As we approached the first steep section, Harvey climbed away from me, hunkered down over his machine, churning the gear while I settled into a conservative rhythm, aiming to keep whatever I had after Mt Terry in reserve.<br />
<br />
The first ramp of the climb goes on endlessly and straight so you can see the reality of what's ahead. Harvey started to flag and nearing to s bends on the steepest section pulled off and dismounted. Having found my rhythm I was slow but steady and feeling good continued on, lest I fall off and tumble back down.<br />
<br />
The road relents momentarily, letting you catch your breath then rears again at a sharp hairpin, which I chose to take very wide, but after that it was OK, relenting to an easy in saddle spin with the occasional steep grunt.<br />
<br />
After the Abbey and the few hairpins up from there, I reckoned from my previous drives and descents that I was nearing the top. The terrain started to flatten out and I saw a sign for Barren Grounds NP and realised I'd made it. Going through the last tight curve, an oncoming car looked familiar so I smiled in the gasping for breath way I do on a climb and soon glided into Barren Grounds turnoff, where I decided to wait for Harvey and relax a bit after the effort.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB1ChPlIg7VqPE_MYubhmRVKW2jG1FnzTS3fNORb0dZWgFoTQWkYaZAFBpzSP5ejGdORXx3n8lPwTswxDsqT_Y-0sjv3nLPuuMllekI56cqz0h-K6Fmf7AT1FDXXYlc6C0jVmNf_q4LLLB/s1600/IMG_0495.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB1ChPlIg7VqPE_MYubhmRVKW2jG1FnzTS3fNORb0dZWgFoTQWkYaZAFBpzSP5ejGdORXx3n8lPwTswxDsqT_Y-0sjv3nLPuuMllekI56cqz0h-K6Fmf7AT1FDXXYlc6C0jVmNf_q4LLLB/s320/IMG_0495.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Before long the familiar care returned to say Hello, being my work colleague Viv and her husband Norm who is a keen mountain biker. They had been holidaying in the area and had spent the morning at the Illawarra fly to see the sunrise. Viv recognised me so we had a nice visit before they set off and I started posing the bike.<br />
<br />
Before long Harvey hove into view, though he had succumbed to the steepness of the climb and was walking the last bit. After a brief rest we moved on and I realised that there was still more climbing to do before we reached the top of the road and the lookout. We stopped there any way. The view was grand.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0HoyYkUM8zY8CnyGwC-G5tYsj1Uc-G0BxXfp6jpm3E8pa7EWlJ1EWuDbnEKJMa9LMIZBYqR1adQREAAJ8VIq6EHq3E20qy5ysK5bnTsLAcOXvBUz0a6Rmy7Cu7-lVmTS62OJtRbr67o51/s1600/IMG_0506.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0HoyYkUM8zY8CnyGwC-G5tYsj1Uc-G0BxXfp6jpm3E8pa7EWlJ1EWuDbnEKJMa9LMIZBYqR1adQREAAJ8VIq6EHq3E20qy5ysK5bnTsLAcOXvBUz0a6Rmy7Cu7-lVmTS62OJtRbr67o51/s320/IMG_0506.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
From there, we still had a couple of hundred meters to climb along undulating terrain and a long drag up to the pie shop before we could call the ride topped out. It was hard going at times, quite cold, before we could see the Pie shop and say goodbye to the climb. The pies were delicious.<br />
<br />
From the pie shop it's pretty much all downhill so we made short work of the pass (another traffic free run for me) and returned via Marshalls Mount and the highway to town.<br />
<br />
100kms for me with about 1400m of climbing and a major climb under the belt, one which has been psyching me out for years, so a good day on the bike. In the last few months I've ridden every escarpment pass nearby (excepting Bulli pass) so am feeling increasingly confident about my climbing.<br />
<br />
Next month will bring on the Tallowa dam 200 as well as the AAC, and I'm feeling quite comfortable with them after today.<br />
<br />
Mileage in Kilometers = 5941<br />
<br />
<br />
Granthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12337801641101641763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1372147147640921603.post-22602838713733989272012-12-05T20:25:00.001+11:002012-12-05T20:25:18.224+11:00Berrima 200This past weekend saw the running of the Berrima 200 and my second tilt at the ride, which is fast becoming a favourite.<br />
<br />
There was a bit of interest from other rides, including the local contingent and a few guys from Sydney, so we were a healthy group of 7 riders at the start.<br />
<br />
The weather forecast was looking grim and as the ride drew nearing we were expecting to be confronted with storms and hot temperatures in the high 30s. Surprisingly, as the morning dawned I was surprised to find that it had been raining and temperatures were cool and humid.<br />
<br />
After the paperwork at the start, we headed off after a short delay while we waiting for the last rider to join and then we set off at a fair clip heading for Macquarie Pass.<br />
<br />
Once at the Pass, we encountered light rain for the duration of the climb, which was a welcome relief as it was becoming warm. For the first few kilometers we stayed in a loose group, which is unusual on the Pass where you tend to suffer in solitude but as the climb wore on the fit and the riders with Triples began to pull away. <br />
<br />
I summited with Paul who had come down from Sydney in and was attempting his first 200 and we soon caught up with Mark and Terry, also down from Syndey who had paused to wait for Paul.<br />
<br />
With one other rider yet to complete the climb I decided to wait for him to arrive and then proceed onwards to Fitzroy Falls. It didn't take long and we also collected Harvey at the Pie Shop and made a small group zipping through the countryside in fairly good conditions, high 20s,overcast and a slight, but cooling cross breeze.<br />
<br />
At the falls we had our brevets signed and caught up with the others who were waiting for their breakfast. Ben Harvey and I decide that Bundanon would be a better lunch stop so pressed on after a short stop, filling bidons and camel backs before heading west along the Nowra Road.<br />
<br />
Along here things began to warm up and we leap frogged each other as we worked to find our rythms. I had left my Garmin at home in my rush to leave and was finding it difficult to judge my pace. I like to average about 25kph over the ground, but not knowing my current speed was making me chop and change, but in the end I began to relax and just ride.<br />
<br />
Stopping in Bundanoon for an early lunch at the Bike Shop Cafe is always a treat, and we all stopped except for Shane, who after eating a very large big breakfast at the Falls, and spending the last stage digesting it, pushed on.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWReswWA1UjF7xVmnE-1hg4dCSYWVCIiHeyHzMQeUR2l-wsa8W91l-A7HOSqkWeD2bHUbOQfMhCSBBC7memzMI6ETn4VAKEht6PKBHBKWbKB9_8q8OHm4eKUuODVs3IA9P8rs6TfCZ2zNE/s1600/bundeena.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWReswWA1UjF7xVmnE-1hg4dCSYWVCIiHeyHzMQeUR2l-wsa8W91l-A7HOSqkWeD2bHUbOQfMhCSBBC7memzMI6ETn4VAKEht6PKBHBKWbKB9_8q8OHm4eKUuODVs3IA9P8rs6TfCZ2zNE/s320/bundeena.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
We were soon away and rode to Wingello en mass, enjoying the growing downhill and the mostly overcast conditions which were really keeping the temperatures down. We took turns on the front with most of the work being done by Mark with a cheerful, "have a rest (insert name here)" and then proceeded to ride off the front, or maybe I was just tired. Turned out, when I caught up with him, that he wa not long back from the Bright Bootcamp and was in great form. We really didn't stand a chance.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuWnLEAHYXhSv8HeCm-6SYmJrsZKYBa0nBY99QWApZMdUAyR2cXNcqEISSsZY9BGO4g2zV7gC3Dp7ZUlzbrKFEKHRDq-1olytAPsmhSLgv8tP5RcS45mjfSChgGA2orKYKyEDfHMLO9wQe/s1600/IMG_0488.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuWnLEAHYXhSv8HeCm-6SYmJrsZKYBa0nBY99QWApZMdUAyR2cXNcqEISSsZY9BGO4g2zV7gC3Dp7ZUlzbrKFEKHRDq-1olytAPsmhSLgv8tP5RcS45mjfSChgGA2orKYKyEDfHMLO9wQe/s320/IMG_0488.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
At the control we met up with Shane again who was downing a Coke not have realised that we "all" had stopped for lunch at Bundanoon. <br />
<br />
From Wingello control it was a short hop to the Hume Freeway, as Shane and I rode across the railway tracks we assured everyone that we would proceed slowly, however it's mostly downhill and and we got carried away talking about the dirt series route that Shane is organising for the end of December and before we knew it we were at the intersection with the freeway, and it was hot. The cloud cover had blown off and the reflected heat was quite awesome.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpF_GXPzkzh1dQm3fVSzGm2Qkc5YuK3Q7Ka6W25zaSZvRg8cBVzDC-uwX2RRALLo6VOpTDpa4F_6NdedE43DJxSQR_LLIHVg0vpjpYD-tliApzBSenDNCn5VfYdAOKeiDw3_uTQYYLEk98/s1600/IMG_0489.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpF_GXPzkzh1dQm3fVSzGm2Qkc5YuK3Q7Ka6W25zaSZvRg8cBVzDC-uwX2RRALLo6VOpTDpa4F_6NdedE43DJxSQR_LLIHVg0vpjpYD-tliApzBSenDNCn5VfYdAOKeiDw3_uTQYYLEk98/s320/IMG_0489.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
We paused for a moment and saw the rest of the group approaching the intersection so rolled off on the downhill slope, enjoying the cross breeze even more so as we began a long drag up a freeway ascent. At the top I suggested we wait the others, I was planning to play a sweep roll on this section as the more inexperienced riders would be starting to push their limits, the freeway is littered with debris that can cause punctures and I'd rather be cathcing them from behind than riding back. Especially in the heat.<br />
<br />
Everyone passed us in good time and we set out after the last rider passed, I suggested that Shane should ride at his own pace as I was going to sweep and we soon separated into a lead group and the lanterne rouge which was myself and Harvey who was struggling with the heat a bit.<br />
<br />
Ironically it was I who punctured half way up a hill nearing the Sutton Forest service centre, so I suggested that Harvey should carry on and I'd see him in Berrima at the next control. It was hot on the road and getting hotter for a while as I set to replacing the tube and setting off again I got a call from Harvey who had taken the wrong exit. As luck would have it it was just where I was passing so I waiting and he returned to the Freeway, only a couple of bonus Km in his legs.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivt5RHNJH5gwM6_9O1V5xfVRMfmdnHz7RENa8jJMFD_295sBca5ygXW_TZnenmVgprt8lQBPXyzIseg4uYgY4nDDhqqR0eDvWEGtaJCE7JvrNhcLWEeKO_V5BKk3qLGqd6lUDinGx-TMYx/s1600/IMG_0490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivt5RHNJH5gwM6_9O1V5xfVRMfmdnHz7RENa8jJMFD_295sBca5ygXW_TZnenmVgprt8lQBPXyzIseg4uYgY4nDDhqqR0eDvWEGtaJCE7JvrNhcLWEeKO_V5BKk3qLGqd6lUDinGx-TMYx/s320/IMG_0490.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Riding onwe had about 6km to the exit to Berrima and enjoyed high temperatures and a section of resealed road that left a lot to be desired and forced me out into the traffic lane for a nervous while. Soon though the Berrima exit hove into view and we looped under the freeway to find Terry with a flat and trying to fix it.<br />
<br />
Terry's first words to me were that he hadn't done this for a while, well since he was a kid so we offered assistance, and after realising that one of his spare tubes was holed, replaced it with his last and got him back on the road.<br />
<br />
When we eventually arrived at the control we found the rest of the bunch looking concernedly at their mobiles and slightly relieved that we had t last arrived. Terry soon followed us in and we where able to patch his tube so he had a spare, eat some delicious pastry, drink, ablute and share tales of suffering. At this point of the ride the on road temperature had hit 41 degrees, but thankfully cloud was coming in and temperatures dropped back down for the rest of the ride.<br />
<br />
We still had a bit of climbing to do with the steep climb out of Berrima itself and the feared Bendooley Hill. With 70km yet to ride, and through the tough conditions earlier, we stayed as a group for much of the way, after the climbing breaking into two groups that rejoined at Bowral, or last chance of supplied before heading down the pass.<br />
<br />
While everyone was getting tired, some were feeling it more than others and as 3 guys were now well passed their longest rides a more conservative pace was being set and we stopped frequently to let stragglers catch up and others to have a breather. I was determined to see everyone finish the ride and get their Brevet and thanks to the early conditions we had a lot of time and the pleasure of a 10 km descent of the pass to look forward to. I brought this up a lot in conversation with the others. Sure you odo says 160km but 12 km of that is all downhill so you only have 28kay to go." Not sure if they believed me.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVkd7WL_RjFNmCr5QsAY_F3mblMsiVjSq8dshDmYtnC6z1K9c_Cu1-jB53fhJ5UjRi4uekO4Jnsf45OwJV6ToZzcUd1H1b2H4KELiUKsfR9Qf5adev1cbUo7zxzenXTNzn4l8rhca0ozSk/s1600/IMG_0491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVkd7WL_RjFNmCr5QsAY_F3mblMsiVjSq8dshDmYtnC6z1K9c_Cu1-jB53fhJ5UjRi4uekO4Jnsf45OwJV6ToZzcUd1H1b2H4KELiUKsfR9Qf5adev1cbUo7zxzenXTNzn4l8rhca0ozSk/s320/IMG_0491.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRFwLv9OkQTpKi0Q69lnpLB1GdMyT3BLS2bzRCGCcDggKNkTM9EgXZyyXb14WyE7hUUsgrvroJcOLZTqhoS7KAGTOeqVQCU-sKFrXdqXD9133woAVN3lu3CHLCQYhfiCmzltMv_iBAotLP/s1600/IMG_0492.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRFwLv9OkQTpKi0Q69lnpLB1GdMyT3BLS2bzRCGCcDggKNkTM9EgXZyyXb14WyE7hUUsgrvroJcOLZTqhoS7KAGTOeqVQCU-sKFrXdqXD9133woAVN3lu3CHLCQYhfiCmzltMv_iBAotLP/s320/IMG_0492.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Heading down tourist road we again split into two groups and proceeded along at a reasonable pace and made the top of the pass before dark. From here is was like falling off a log and I was greatly relieved that barring a major incident, everyone was home and hosed.<br />
<br />
So I set off down the pass in the cool evening air like a rat down an aqueduct until I saw a line of brake lights and parked cars ahead. Fearing an accident lower down I discovered that a truck was stuck on a hairpin bend and felt cheered by this, until I saw the truck.<br />
<br />
It was in fact very stuck and probably shouldn't have been on the road as it had no chance of making this particular corner. The truck occupied every inch of available roadspace (a credit to the driver really) and we had to crawl under the trailer with our bikes to get through, much to the amusement of the cars waiting either side. Well at least I interpreted it as amusement. Things were actually pretty tense, and we didn't hand around for photos but took advantage of the fact that the lower reaches of the Pass would be relatively free from traffic and took off for an epic, fun descent.<br />
<br />
Shane soon arrived alongside me and we reverse our earlier route back to Dapto to find Mark and his friends had arrived shortly before us and were draping themselves over the grass and pouring cold water on hot bodies.<br />
<br />
10 minutes later Ben and Harvey rolled in to complete the 100% success rate and we all left soon after, salt stains on our knicks telling the story of a long hard day out .<br />
<br />
Mileage in Kilometers = 5860<br />
<br />
<br />Granthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12337801641101641763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1372147147640921603.post-39521237576993670992012-12-04T23:27:00.000+11:002012-12-04T23:27:15.219+11:00Coastal 200 and Berrima 200 two down on The quest for a Year Round AwardOne of my goals for the coming year is to complete a Year Round Randonneu (YRR) which requires that you must complete a brevet of 200km of more each month from November to November.<br />
<br />
With that goal in mind I have so far successfully completed the Coastal 200 permanent as my ride for November and this past weekend the Berrima 200 <br />
<br />
The coastal 200 is a double loop ride from Dapto to Otford and Dapto to Kiama taking in a few of the more invigorating climbs on the seaboard side of the Illawarra escarpment, notably Bald Hill and Mt Terry. I'd lined up a fellow YRR hopeful in Ben and as the ride date coincided with the Strava 79 Mile challenge another local Audaxian, Shane joined us for part of the second loop.<br />
<br />
We started riding early with a 6 am start at Dapto. The weather was warm and humid but presented pretty good conditions for the day so we set off only to find that Railway track works had close a critical part of the early route and we were forced to return along our route and take an alternative path.<br />
<br />
Otherwise the first 100kms passed smoothly and I was enjoying sampling some homemade trail putty and sharing it with Ben. At the first controle I discovered I had left my ride wallet at home when leaving, so had no cash or cards on me luckily Ben is a generous guy and bought me a coffee and on the return leg we were able to deviate to my place and collect the wallet which turned out to have fallen from my saddle bag in the garage.<br />
<br />
As we returned to Dapto to start the second loop we rode over the freeway overpass at Figtree and enjoyed the sight and sound of the Camp Quality Truck convoy. A bunch of truckies get together to raise money for a kids cancer charity and put on this convoy of over 600 heavy vehicles every year. It's quite an awesome sight. Soon after leaving Dapto we were joined by Shane who had planned to come with us to Kiama and then head further south in search of a mountain.<br />
<br />
The weather conditons were changing however, it was getting hotter and windier, and we encountered very strong gusts from the North east on our ride out to Kiama, especially on the apex of the climb over Mt Terry.<br />
<br />
We fragmented under the conditions but soon regrouped in Kiama and feasted at the Headland cafe before saying farewell to Shane as he turned south and we turned north by northwest into the teeth of the prefrontal wind - but on our homeward leg with only 50kms to go so spirits were high<br />
<br />
It was a hard grind back, both hot and windy and we found little relief from either along the route, the effort took its toll. Riding into a headwind is the equivalent of riding up a hill, however you don't get the sense of achievement of reaching the top or the rest during the descent so you must "find a gear" and get on with it. We eventually made it to the end of the brevet, and in pretty good time considering the late conditions so enjoyed a brief rest at Dapto, but we both had another 12km to go, into the wind before we were home so before long we were back on our bikes, heading back into the wind to get home.<br />
<br />
Those last few kilometers where character building to say the least, however the ride was completed successfully, as was the Strava 79 mile goal and then some and the beer afterwards tasted just fine.<br />
<br />
Not long after we arrived home a powerful southerly change arrived, and we were sparing thoughts for Shane who we imagined was still out there riding towards his goal. Luckily he was nearing home but encountered very strong gusts approaching 90kph as he neared the end of his ride. <br />
<br />
Berima 200 to be continued...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Granthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12337801641101641763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1372147147640921603.post-41217477903953321972012-11-12T19:31:00.003+11:002012-11-12T19:31:33.678+11:00Holidays nearly overMy leave is nearly over, and I will be returning to work on Wednesday, though I have thoroughly enjoyed my break and by tomorrow should have clocked up about 1350kms during the four weeks I've been at home. I've also managed to paint 2/3rds of the house and saw my daughter through her HSC, my son through his 3rd year Uni exams and a couple of good friends married, almost finished restoring one old bike and rediscovered the joys of dirt riding. I've also lost another 3 kgs, so not a bad break.<br />
<br />
Today I took the Paino out again this morning for a quick 50km and find that every time I ride it I like it more and more. So easy to push, even into a stiff wind with a worn freewheel and chain. I'm thinking that I will make it my Monday bike so I can continue to enjoy it.<br />
<br />
Tomorrow I've got a date for a ride up the gun club hill and then will be heading to the city to see Radiohead.<br />
<br />
Then its back to work on Wednesday. With ringing ears!<br />
<br />
<br />
Mileage in Kms = 5135Granthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12337801641101641763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1372147147640921603.post-5925262604246835542012-11-03T18:23:00.003+11:002012-11-03T18:23:44.216+11:00More DirtFollowing my earlier exploration of the route to Brokers Nose, fellow rider Shane shared his experience on the route and reckoned that I was in fact pretty close to the Rixson Pass turnoff when I retreated. With that in mind we arranged to head out and ride the route again this morning.<br />
<br />
Prepped for an early start, the morning dawned dampish with a light mist falling. Cloud base was pretty low on the escarpment at about 300m annd once we confirmed that neither of us minded getting wet, we proceeded with our meet at Wollongong Station and set out for Tarrawana.<br />
<br />
The route up wasn't too bad and Shane showed me a thing or two about mountain biking, so I was learning quickly. Before long we passed my earlier turn around point and literally 30m away was the intersection in the path and the beginning of the long and murderously steep climb up Rixson.<br />
<br />
In the steepest part on a switchback the trail is actually concreted over, it's a fire trail after all, but the slick conditons saw me lose traction so I was forced to walk the rest of the way up. Once at the top we jumped another gate and made easy progress on a variety of fire trail, narrow track and sandy/rocky ground before we got to the nose.<br />
<br />
Despite the low cloud and mists the view was pretty good.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8149191810/" title="Brokers Nose by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Brokers Nose" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8323/8149191810_dc6e91c0fd.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<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="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8149190746/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Brokers Nose by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Brokers Nose" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8470/8149190746_c991e40531.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shane on the nose</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8149159541/" title="Brokers Nose by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Brokers Nose" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8189/8149159541_1198e5635e.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
While we contemplated our next steps and munched some banana bread, another rider happened by and we engaged in some conversation and she offered to show us some other tracks and point us in the general direction of more. We retreated down the fire trail and then turned off down a single track which she described as rocky and scary. It was rocky for the most part and only scary for a few sections of abrupt drops. After a while she pointed us towards Picton Rd and tracks on Keira and we continued our descent through some lovely forest, skirting tree ferns and Hakeas on our way.<br />
<br />
when we emerged on the Highway interchange we set out in the general direction of her instructions but didn't manage to find anything that looked accessible so we rode up Picton Rd to the Mt Keira Road intersection and then followed some tracks that showed on the garmin.<br />
<br />
It was tough going in places and the paths didn't seem designed for bikes so soon we hit the Mt Pleasant fire trail and ripped downhill before turning towrads home in increasing rain. It became clear early on that the V brakes on my bike weren't up to much in the rain and the longer we rode and the dirtier and muddier my wheels became the less effective the brakes were. So I'm thinking now of converting the Montari to Disc brakes. It has compatible wheels and mounting points on the frame and forks so shouldn't be too big a problem to overcome.<br />
<br />
It was a great mornings ride and I'm really enjoying the variety of off road riding.Granthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12337801641101641763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1372147147640921603.post-77865877165029020702012-10-31T17:19:00.000+11:002012-10-31T17:19:10.972+11:00October Wrap UpAs months on the bike go, October turned out to be a pretty good month. Especially considering that I wasn't supposed to be riding!<br />
<br />
Being on leave for half of the month is a big help, so much more time for longer rides and the weather has been great.<br />
<br />
So analysis of the month is 17 rides for 1003km and 10,855m of climbing. My best monthly effort for some time.<br />
<br />
As it happens I was back to the Surgeon this morning for the final review of my foot. All seemed well and I'm quite happy with it, so to celebrate I went out for a ride, aiming for Bald Hill.<br />
<br />
The weather was warmish and the late start mean't that I saw a lot of sun but the climb up to Bald Hill was great and according to Strava I posted my best time.<br />
<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="http://www.flickr.com/photos/grant_white/8140423857/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Bald Hill by _granty, on Flickr"><img alt="Bald Hill" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8465/8140423857_591aa83875.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Special Sunscreen Filter used</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The climbing improvement I'm putting down to some weight loss (sitting on about 73kg now down from 84 earlier in the year) and yoga practise. My yoga teacher emphasises the importance of technique and softness of breath and eyes during poses, even when they're physically demanding. I've been carrying that over into my approach on the bike, especially when climbing and trying to maintain a soft posture and relaxed breathing. <br />
<br />
I'm now looking forward to the new Audax season, tackling a year round Randonneur award ( a 200km ride or longer every month) as well as a super series<br />
<br />
Mileage in Kilometers = 4782<br />
Granthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12337801641101641763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1372147147640921603.post-63823595372039715812012-10-30T22:18:00.000+11:002012-10-30T22:18:45.227+11:00Mountain BikingThe Illawarra will be hosting it's first Dirt Audax series this coming season, and I've made up my mind to participate.<br />
<br />
In my youth I was a keen trail rider, exploring many of the dirt tracks around Newcastle on my trusty dragster. On moving to the 'gong I purchased my first (and only) Mountain Bike, an Avanti Montari and explored a few trails and rode the 2004 NSW bike ride before stepping up to a road bike and etc.<br />
<br />
So the Montari has been hanging in the shed for a few years now and this last week I've taken it down and dusted it off in order to prepare for the dirt series, the first ride of which is in December.<br />
<br />
Earlier in the week I took it on a brief shakedown around the local cycle paths with a kilometer or so of creek side dirt. This morning I was more ambitious and headed off for a climb up the escarpment heading for Brokers Nose.<br />
<br />
I really enjoyed this ride as it was a complete adventure for me, I was riding into unkown territory and my MTB skills had yet to be tested.<br />
<br />
I set off across the usual cycleways heading for Tarrawana, got a bit lost, but eventually found my way to the old road to the Mine. Ignoring various signs of peril I jumped the gate and commenced the climb upwards on a sealed surface to the old mine workings before jumping another gate and hitting dirt.<br />
<br />
From there it was up and down along either wider fire tracks and single track but essentially traversing a ridge line at about 230 meters. After a while I became increasingly suspicious that I was lost, had missed a turn somehow and the garmin refused to clarify my position or show the tracks I thought should be there.<br />
<br />
Time was getting on so I eventually turned back and headed for home, only to find out later that I was only a few hundred meters from the track I wanted that would lead me to the Nose. Not to worry, I'll try again later.<br />
<br />
I really enjoyed the ride and despite my MTB rustiness was soon enjoying weight shifting and the rush of descending rock strewn singletrack. Wish I was younger sometimes!<br />
<br />
I took some photos too -<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8EWX_G1Ngi0dNq-52slWu18ATv98-53VOJA8fk2TlVomcvqZ7bMywEl7TVDAlW8iNeqdo0AqLIadLY_aVEmksRjXVQPVBunBzLEcZpJzaxKhuYHbiIEawbIHqbclkhk29WT2FOGsrtONn/s1600/DSCN0985.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8EWX_G1Ngi0dNq-52slWu18ATv98-53VOJA8fk2TlVomcvqZ7bMywEl7TVDAlW8iNeqdo0AqLIadLY_aVEmksRjXVQPVBunBzLEcZpJzaxKhuYHbiIEawbIHqbclkhk29WT2FOGsrtONn/s400/DSCN0985.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCSzzIGgi4wsocmS2q3T6TJ8_A1RYI9R9mwZ0FwrFoIm5AYCc_3S-RhJmEuO20aqLlovwwahdQNqzY94dXpNTcbpupWEOxpO8EvnR2WFynFmTEICmnyPTEup-K0W7tkXRHXLsKdNPwFlgk/s1600/DSCN0987.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCSzzIGgi4wsocmS2q3T6TJ8_A1RYI9R9mwZ0FwrFoIm5AYCc_3S-RhJmEuO20aqLlovwwahdQNqzY94dXpNTcbpupWEOxpO8EvnR2WFynFmTEICmnyPTEup-K0W7tkXRHXLsKdNPwFlgk/s400/DSCN0987.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7IkE_FQ5-TcoSPu8dmLNayhWnIEJS3SSgvb95ha52NisqYcdGuC8oTRUGCgqBR3J0viI0DhEPZEgzoaAeuqqsExfqtOZsa0NKqFjjRQafkHMQHkvGaswToGXyRgoue-X9TJiMhkukbQWy/s1600/DSCN0988.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7IkE_FQ5-TcoSPu8dmLNayhWnIEJS3SSgvb95ha52NisqYcdGuC8oTRUGCgqBR3J0viI0DhEPZEgzoaAeuqqsExfqtOZsa0NKqFjjRQafkHMQHkvGaswToGXyRgoue-X9TJiMhkukbQWy/s400/DSCN0988.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Ip_5XENBCNMA-fxNQlEcUkA_ftm33Ok9pC-_KziPFS6jV7T39dOMtKENwB2mhoNrafTtA0zX7DhOJob1WFNeHvQbb6mtfq03rcia1fwbd2qGo2BCrG3BbgeNx-F8IAx1QX19eK3P2rCV/s1600/DSCN0989.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Ip_5XENBCNMA-fxNQlEcUkA_ftm33Ok9pC-_KziPFS6jV7T39dOMtKENwB2mhoNrafTtA0zX7DhOJob1WFNeHvQbb6mtfq03rcia1fwbd2qGo2BCrG3BbgeNx-F8IAx1QX19eK3P2rCV/s400/DSCN0989.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Granthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12337801641101641763noreply@blogger.com0