The ride for today was corner canyon. The ride up was great and didn't bother my finger a bit. The ride coming down....not so much. Was it worth it????
It was most defnitely worth it!
Friday, October 22, 2010
Great Fall Riding
So I have been taking a few days off the bike, in fact, almost 2 weeks. I have been dreaming about getting on my bike, but the couple of times I tried riding my road bike it really hurt. Well, today was a girl's ride, and with the weather looking less than great for next week I decided to take a chance.
The ride for today was corner canyon. The ride up was great and didn't bother my finger a bit. The ride coming down....not so much. Was it worth it????
The ride for today was corner canyon. The ride up was great and didn't bother my finger a bit. The ride coming down....not so much. Was it worth it????
Friday, October 15, 2010
Moab - The bits and pieces
This is very long. Sorry, but I don't know how you can condense 24 hours.
I am not sure what the attraction is to 24 Hours of Moab, but crazy enough every time I think of the race it puts a smile on my face. For some this is pure craziness, for others it gives them the same smile. Why? Perhaps it is the challenges of the trail or the team unity that emerges as you undertake riding for the next 24 hours. Maybe it is the pure challenge of putting your body through every type of extreme possible in the next 24 hours and conquering it. Whatever it is, it puts a smile on my face.
Pre-Race Days
For me 24 Hours of Moab began Thursday evening. I drove down with Ty and Amber in heavy, pouring rain. The whole way down we were tentative as to what type of weather we would be arriving in, but as we got closer to Moab, the clouds parted and the stars shone bright. This was the beginning to a great weekend.
Friday morning we woke up and began setting up camp. For any that have been at the Mad Dog camp, it is quite the set up. We have a tent for eating, a tent for our bike wrench, tables, chairs, generators and pretty much anything you can think of. Although it is an elaborate set up, with lots of hands it does not take long to set up.
After setting up, Amber and I went out on our pre-ride. I was excited for this ride; anxious to see the changes in the trail, and hopeful that my skills had improved enough the trail would not seem so hard. Funny thing about this trail, the rock drops and the triple xxx danger zones do not scare me. No, funny enough what scares me is the big sand hill berms and it showed on the pre-ride. I was so afraid of washing out that is exactly what I did. Oh well, better on the pre-ride and not the race. After the berms I cleared everything, rode strong and felt great. I had only one minor mishape I turned wrong in the sand and went down so fast I didn’t have time to thing. You would think lucky I was in the sand, but no I hit a rock and it took a big chunk of skin off my knee. When I got back Karl (the best ER doc around) cut the skin and helped me out. Funny thing, he reminded me that during the race he wouldn’t necessarily have time for minor injuries, only emergencies. No worries, because during a race I don’t even pay attention to minor injuries.
The rest of the day was spent hanging out with the team, eating fabulous food prepared by Abby and getting to bed early so I would be rested for the next day.
The next morning I hung out, went to the racers’ meeting in my pjs, and prepared for the race to start. The start seems to always provide laughter as we watch the run begin. I really do not envy all of those people running in the dust. After the run we set up our chairs at the front of camp and prepare for the riders to come by—58 minutes later the first rider is in! From here on out it is cheering for team mates, other riders and general fun. Great for me as I was going 4th, so I had a little time to kill.
Watching racers ride in.
Lap 1
My first lap came quick—my team mates were kicking it! While waiting in the event tent for Dorothy to come I discovered my cleat was loose on my shoe. I grabbed a racer who had just finished riding and he helped me tighten my cleat. He finished helping just in time. Whew! Thanks mister random rider.
I went out on the trail and felt great. I came to the first triple xxx and started down. Now so you know there is more than one way down most of the triple xxx’s; usually there is an easy way and one not as easy. When I started down there was a rider directly in front of me. I followed him thinking he would go down the easy way—the way I knew and was used to. I got a quarter of the way down when it dawned on me this was not the easy way! Immediately I proclaimed for all to hear “shit almighty, this is not the way I normally take!” I know once again I cursed, but really I don’t think my brain knows any differently when I am in such a situation. I guess my exclamation was an indicator to the rider behind me I was going to walk, because he attempted to pass. I let him know to wait and continued to roll on down. All of the sudden he did pass me, and came right in front of me, causing me to have to stop. He apologized; I went “oh well”, got off my bike and then back on. I continued on my way, cleared the next triple xxx and then my troubles began.
You see the cleat I had tightened up didn’t stay tight, it became loose. For those who don’t know what this means, it means trouble. It means coming unclipped from my pedal is very difficult, and there are no quick escapes if I need them. After this when I needed to dab I couldn’t, and when I tried to dab it usually ended up in a crash. I crashed on a rock drop, I crashed in a sticker bush, and I crashed on a turn. Each time I crashed I was stuck in my pedal and struggled to get out. Riders would pass by and offer to help, but I politely told them no and eventually forcibly would get out.
As I rode I kept praying I would not crash. I was getting tired and frustrated of being stuck. I finally arrived to the final triple xxx. I like this triple xxx, and enjoy bombing down. I dropped off the ledge and then I went down. And by down I do not mean down the hill, but instead I crashed, and I crashed hard. I am not sure how I went down, all I know was once again I was down and my shoe was still clipped in. I was mad. Once again I worked my shoe out of the pedal, picked up my bike and started to walk. I didn’t get too far when I realized my finger was throbbing and had instantly swelled up—I had broken my finger! Wonderful, not only could I not come unclipped, but now my finger was broken. I finished my lap in pain and a little fear—I really did not want to go down anymore. Across the sand I pedaled hard and at one point I almost wiped out, had you been right by me you would have heard me chanting “pedal, pedal, pedal”; this was to ensure I did not crash. I finished with my clock showing I was 4 minutes faster than last year- granny did not match my clock and had me 4 minutes slower. Either way a great time and it shows my health is getting stronger every day.
When I arrived at camp I went and saw doc—I figured a broken finger was a slight emergency. He looked at it and confirmed it was broke. There wasn’t anything that could be done, other than ice, rest and elevation. I could do the ice and elevation, but rest would have to wait. I ate a wonderful dinner prepared by Abby and the other volunteers then went to bed and iced my hand. I only lasted a few hours before I couldn’t take the cold anymore. At this point I got ready for my next lap and went and sat in the warm tent.
Lap 2
My night lap was not too bad. When you’re out on the course everything gets blurred. No longer can you see the path the other tires have gone, lines are not definite, and perception is slightly off. As I rode out the first rider I passed announced this was her very first night ride! Of course I was amazed, surprised and felt bad for this poor girl. What a way to be initiated into the night. As I rode off I let her know after this all night rides would seem easy.
This year my night ride went better. I was better able to distinguish where I wanted to go, but my perception was still off. The first triple xxx I got lost and had to wait for a rider to go by—funny thing it was a Mad Dog rider. I watched him go by and proceeded on my way. The next triple xxx I rode down, but discovered having a broken finger made it difficult to maneuver my bike. From here on out all difficult maneuvering was done by walking my bike—I didn’t need anymore broken bones.
I finished my night lap safe and feeling good. I really couldn’t compare to the year before, because last year I got a flat. This year no major problems and only minor ones Dave and Carl were able to fix.
After my lap I had some warm chicken noodle soup and then carted myself off to bed. I think this time is most key for getting your rest for the race. You try to sleep, but in reality you cannot get the sleep you need. Your body and mind are anticipating the lap or laps that are coming up. But what rest you do get provides your body with hopefully what you will need to complete the race.
Prior to Lap 3
Prior to my final lap there was discussion among teammates as to what we should do. Leslie had somehow miraculously cleaned Nose Dive only to have crashed on the little sand hill going to the mats and injuring her thumb. We knew if I went out strong we could get in 2 more laps, but did we want to. The discussion was whether we should or not. The team that was beating us there was no chance to catch. They were throwing down times as fast as the pros and had already lapped us. We were out here to have a good time, do our race and finish strong, so we reached a decision, we were done.
Now the big decision—should I go out or not. This was a lot for me to contemplate. No one on my team felt the need for me to go out. They were more concerned with my health and making sure I was okay. With no pressure whatsoever, I had to decide what I would do.
I went to the tent, got warm and tried to eat, while I thought about what I should do. Like last year my stomach did not want any food. However, this year I only dry heaved once versus many, many times. Since I couldn’t eat food I was not sure what to do. I was already calorie deficit and knew if I went out without eating I was setting myself up to bonk. As I sat I remembered my CarboRocket. I quickly went and filled my bottle and began to drink. Perfect, my stomach was no longer sick and I had gotten some calories into me. I decided to go out, however, this lap was not going to be a race lap it was going to be a leisure lap.
Lap 3
Dorothy pulled up and we had a great exchange. I let her know we were done with the race and I was going to drag out my next lap. I gave her, her coat and my sweat pants then casually walked to my bike. Yes, I was taking this leisure ride very seriously.
I rode at a steady pace and actually felt really quite good. It wasn’t long before I got hot and had to stop to get out of my vest and arm warmers. This was actually quite the task as I had to take everything out of my vest pockets and put them in my jersey pockets. Then I rolled up my vest, put it in my camel bak and began to ride once again.
About 2.5 miles into the race I began to get hungry. I expected this as I knew I had not had enough calories, so I had brought extra food. I pulled over and took a moment to get my food to eat and then continued on my way.
I rode up to the first triple xxx and began to walk—with my finger there was no more riding rough sections. I was in a lot of pain and anything that required gripping the handle bar was out of the question. I visited with a young rider who is 10 years old. This was his 5th lap of the day—he was doing a solo! Can you imagine riding that course at 10 years old??? I can barely imagine riding it now! We talked for a moment and then parted ways.
I rode and rode and got to meet many great riders. I was so impressed with their perseverance and stamina, so many solo riders going on and on all night long—wow! I don’t know how you do it, but my hat is off to you. At the end of the course I picked up the pace and came in strong. I felt good and was very hungry. For me this was a good sign, because last year beginning at 1 am and going into Monday afternoon I couldn’t get any solid food into my stomach. This time I was able to eat a half a sandwich, and did not feel sick.
Final
Our team ended up getting 2nd place, but for me that was not the most important thing. Instead the most important thing was we hit our goal. As a team we rode hard and had fun. I rode with a great bunch of ladies and made some great friends. Funny thing, we never got a team picture. We were so busy riding we forgot. Because of my finger we didn’t stay for podium, but hopefully we’ll hear from granny and get our medals and prizes soon.
I also have to thank all of the volunteers that helped at the race. Had it not been for them I actually would have to put effort into other things besides racing. But thanks to them all I had to do was eat, sleep and race. It is nice to be so well taken care of.
Follow Up
Monday I went to the orthopedic doctor to follow up on my finger. Lucky for me I got in, when I initially called they couldn’t get me in until Thursday. After hanging up, and crying a bit, I called back to reaffirm there was no appointments available. There were not with a doctor, but I could see the PA. That worked for me and I went in. My finger is broken at the tip—this is known as a tuft fracture. But not only is it broken, it is comminuted—which means shattered. I currently have to wear a splint and cannot have it removed until after I see the doctor in 6 weeks. The bad news is apparently this type of break can hurt for up to 6 months. Oh well, I guess I can deal with that as long as I can ride my bike.
I am not sure what the attraction is to 24 Hours of Moab, but crazy enough every time I think of the race it puts a smile on my face. For some this is pure craziness, for others it gives them the same smile. Why? Perhaps it is the challenges of the trail or the team unity that emerges as you undertake riding for the next 24 hours. Maybe it is the pure challenge of putting your body through every type of extreme possible in the next 24 hours and conquering it. Whatever it is, it puts a smile on my face.
For me 24 Hours of Moab began Thursday evening. I drove down with Ty and Amber in heavy, pouring rain. The whole way down we were tentative as to what type of weather we would be arriving in, but as we got closer to Moab, the clouds parted and the stars shone bright. This was the beginning to a great weekend.
Friday morning we woke up and began setting up camp. For any that have been at the Mad Dog camp, it is quite the set up. We have a tent for eating, a tent for our bike wrench, tables, chairs, generators and pretty much anything you can think of. Although it is an elaborate set up, with lots of hands it does not take long to set up.
Setting up camp.
The hike a bike sand hill.
In the background one of the triple xxx's. If you click on the picture you can see a 4-wheeler trying to manuever it's way down.
Amber on the trail.
Pre-ride injuries.
The next morning I hung out, went to the racers’ meeting in my pjs, and prepared for the race to start. The start seems to always provide laughter as we watch the run begin. I really do not envy all of those people running in the dust. After the run we set up our chairs at the front of camp and prepare for the riders to come by—58 minutes later the first rider is in! From here on out it is cheering for team mates, other riders and general fun. Great for me as I was going 4th, so I had a little time to kill.
Teammate Leslie & me at the racer's meeting.
Keith on the megaphone.
My first lap came quick—my team mates were kicking it! While waiting in the event tent for Dorothy to come I discovered my cleat was loose on my shoe. I grabbed a racer who had just finished riding and he helped me tighten my cleat. He finished helping just in time. Whew! Thanks mister random rider.
I went out on the trail and felt great. I came to the first triple xxx and started down. Now so you know there is more than one way down most of the triple xxx’s; usually there is an easy way and one not as easy. When I started down there was a rider directly in front of me. I followed him thinking he would go down the easy way—the way I knew and was used to. I got a quarter of the way down when it dawned on me this was not the easy way! Immediately I proclaimed for all to hear “shit almighty, this is not the way I normally take!” I know once again I cursed, but really I don’t think my brain knows any differently when I am in such a situation. I guess my exclamation was an indicator to the rider behind me I was going to walk, because he attempted to pass. I let him know to wait and continued to roll on down. All of the sudden he did pass me, and came right in front of me, causing me to have to stop. He apologized; I went “oh well”, got off my bike and then back on. I continued on my way, cleared the next triple xxx and then my troubles began.
You see the cleat I had tightened up didn’t stay tight, it became loose. For those who don’t know what this means, it means trouble. It means coming unclipped from my pedal is very difficult, and there are no quick escapes if I need them. After this when I needed to dab I couldn’t, and when I tried to dab it usually ended up in a crash. I crashed on a rock drop, I crashed in a sticker bush, and I crashed on a turn. Each time I crashed I was stuck in my pedal and struggled to get out. Riders would pass by and offer to help, but I politely told them no and eventually forcibly would get out.
As I rode I kept praying I would not crash. I was getting tired and frustrated of being stuck. I finally arrived to the final triple xxx. I like this triple xxx, and enjoy bombing down. I dropped off the ledge and then I went down. And by down I do not mean down the hill, but instead I crashed, and I crashed hard. I am not sure how I went down, all I know was once again I was down and my shoe was still clipped in. I was mad. Once again I worked my shoe out of the pedal, picked up my bike and started to walk. I didn’t get too far when I realized my finger was throbbing and had instantly swelled up—I had broken my finger! Wonderful, not only could I not come unclipped, but now my finger was broken. I finished my lap in pain and a little fear—I really did not want to go down anymore. Across the sand I pedaled hard and at one point I almost wiped out, had you been right by me you would have heard me chanting “pedal, pedal, pedal”; this was to ensure I did not crash. I finished with my clock showing I was 4 minutes faster than last year- granny did not match my clock and had me 4 minutes slower. Either way a great time and it shows my health is getting stronger every day.
Broken finger.
Hanging out in the warm tent in between laps.
My night lap was not too bad. When you’re out on the course everything gets blurred. No longer can you see the path the other tires have gone, lines are not definite, and perception is slightly off. As I rode out the first rider I passed announced this was her very first night ride! Of course I was amazed, surprised and felt bad for this poor girl. What a way to be initiated into the night. As I rode off I let her know after this all night rides would seem easy.
This year my night ride went better. I was better able to distinguish where I wanted to go, but my perception was still off. The first triple xxx I got lost and had to wait for a rider to go by—funny thing it was a Mad Dog rider. I watched him go by and proceeded on my way. The next triple xxx I rode down, but discovered having a broken finger made it difficult to maneuver my bike. From here on out all difficult maneuvering was done by walking my bike—I didn’t need anymore broken bones.
I finished my night lap safe and feeling good. I really couldn’t compare to the year before, because last year I got a flat. This year no major problems and only minor ones Dave and Carl were able to fix.
Prior to Lap 3
Prior to my final lap there was discussion among teammates as to what we should do. Leslie had somehow miraculously cleaned Nose Dive only to have crashed on the little sand hill going to the mats and injuring her thumb. We knew if I went out strong we could get in 2 more laps, but did we want to. The discussion was whether we should or not. The team that was beating us there was no chance to catch. They were throwing down times as fast as the pros and had already lapped us. We were out here to have a good time, do our race and finish strong, so we reached a decision, we were done.
Now the big decision—should I go out or not. This was a lot for me to contemplate. No one on my team felt the need for me to go out. They were more concerned with my health and making sure I was okay. With no pressure whatsoever, I had to decide what I would do.
I went to the tent, got warm and tried to eat, while I thought about what I should do. Like last year my stomach did not want any food. However, this year I only dry heaved once versus many, many times. Since I couldn’t eat food I was not sure what to do. I was already calorie deficit and knew if I went out without eating I was setting myself up to bonk. As I sat I remembered my CarboRocket. I quickly went and filled my bottle and began to drink. Perfect, my stomach was no longer sick and I had gotten some calories into me. I decided to go out, however, this lap was not going to be a race lap it was going to be a leisure lap.
Lap 3
Dorothy pulled up and we had a great exchange. I let her know we were done with the race and I was going to drag out my next lap. I gave her, her coat and my sweat pants then casually walked to my bike. Yes, I was taking this leisure ride very seriously.
I rode at a steady pace and actually felt really quite good. It wasn’t long before I got hot and had to stop to get out of my vest and arm warmers. This was actually quite the task as I had to take everything out of my vest pockets and put them in my jersey pockets. Then I rolled up my vest, put it in my camel bak and began to ride once again.
About 2.5 miles into the race I began to get hungry. I expected this as I knew I had not had enough calories, so I had brought extra food. I pulled over and took a moment to get my food to eat and then continued on my way.
I rode up to the first triple xxx and began to walk—with my finger there was no more riding rough sections. I was in a lot of pain and anything that required gripping the handle bar was out of the question. I visited with a young rider who is 10 years old. This was his 5th lap of the day—he was doing a solo! Can you imagine riding that course at 10 years old??? I can barely imagine riding it now! We talked for a moment and then parted ways.
I rode and rode and got to meet many great riders. I was so impressed with their perseverance and stamina, so many solo riders going on and on all night long—wow! I don’t know how you do it, but my hat is off to you. At the end of the course I picked up the pace and came in strong. I felt good and was very hungry. For me this was a good sign, because last year beginning at 1 am and going into Monday afternoon I couldn’t get any solid food into my stomach. This time I was able to eat a half a sandwich, and did not feel sick.
Final
Our team ended up getting 2nd place, but for me that was not the most important thing. Instead the most important thing was we hit our goal. As a team we rode hard and had fun. I rode with a great bunch of ladies and made some great friends. Funny thing, we never got a team picture. We were so busy riding we forgot. Because of my finger we didn’t stay for podium, but hopefully we’ll hear from granny and get our medals and prizes soon.
I also have to thank all of the volunteers that helped at the race. Had it not been for them I actually would have to put effort into other things besides racing. But thanks to them all I had to do was eat, sleep and race. It is nice to be so well taken care of.
Follow Up
Monday I went to the orthopedic doctor to follow up on my finger. Lucky for me I got in, when I initially called they couldn’t get me in until Thursday. After hanging up, and crying a bit, I called back to reaffirm there was no appointments available. There were not with a doctor, but I could see the PA. That worked for me and I went in. My finger is broken at the tip—this is known as a tuft fracture. But not only is it broken, it is comminuted—which means shattered. I currently have to wear a splint and cannot have it removed until after I see the doctor in 6 weeks. The bad news is apparently this type of break can hurt for up to 6 months. Oh well, I guess I can deal with that as long as I can ride my bike.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
On My Way
This year I am racing in the 35+ division with a great bunch of ladies - Lyna Saffell, Dorothy Gibson, and Leslie Knowlton. I don't think I could be on a better team. So wish us luck, and cross your fingers that all of us ride well, have fun and make it from start to finish.
One of our many night rides - Lyna, Me, Sally & Jen
Saturday, October 2, 2010
6 Months Down - 6 Months to Go
Last week was my 6 month follow up appointment with my cardiologist. I had a transdoppler test and an echo cardiogram with bubble test. The results were very positive. The hole in my heart is not healed yet, but is getting closer. Prior to my heart surgery I had 500+ bubbles going through my heart, at rest, with little stress and with a lot. Now I have 70 bubbles going through my heart only when there is a lot of stress! Great improvement.
What does this mean? It means I have reduced my risk for a stroke significantly. It also means the hole is almost closed up--I am very excited about this.
With the healing a new issue has popped up. As I said under stress bubbles go through the hole. Well, when you mountain bike a hill climb is stress. Even if it doesn't feel like it, it is. So, what has been happening is when I push it hard riding, even only for a moment such as a short steep up, or when I ride at high altitude I am getting a migraine. It only started happening recently, which is due to the hole getting smaller and I am no longer taking plavix, only aspirin. This is not good. You see when I get a migraine, I get an aura. Aura's prevent you from seeing in one or both eyes. Lately I have been getting these while riding--not always, but more than I would like. Try going down hill blind with one eye--not fun. The good news there is a solution.
When I get an aura I need to immediately chew an apirin--oh, and wash it down with water of course. The purpose of chewing the aspirin is to get it in the blood stream immediately. If the migraine is caused by a blood clot going through the hole in my heart then it will thin the blood, stop the aura's and potentially stop the migraine. Does it work? Well, I got to test it out a week ago, and worked.
Jolene and I were riding in AF Canyon (sadly it will be her last ride for a while), we had just finished going down Deer Creek South Fork, when all of the sudden I started to get an aura. Luckily I had remembered to pack some aspirin, and took one immediately--yuck! It is very difficult to swallow chewed up aspirin when you have been riding a bike. I was worried one wouldn't work, so I took another for good measure. We pedaled and pedaled, and I was getting worried the aura was not going away. I knew if it didn't there was no way I could negotiate the downhill after the summit--too many things to look out for. Just as we got to the summit the aura quit, and I did not get a migraine. I am so glad it work.
Now all I need to do is remember to take aspirin on every ride. Today I forgot and I paid for it. I was going down Rush and low and behold an aura. I just kept riding hoping I would make it down before the aura got worse and before the mirgraine hit. It didn't work. The aura kept getting worse and trying to see became very difficult. Luckily for me I ran into Karl, Dot, Joey and Johnny and was able to follow them down. They got me to the road safely and I took off to the car to get some aspirin, and hopefully stop the aura and on-coming mirgraine. I didn't make it in time. The aura quit just as I hit the parking lot and now my head is killing me. Lesson learned aspirin in the car does not do any good.
As for everyting else. I am looking forward to the next 6 months and seeing more improvement. Although the last 6 months the recovery has been slow I am looking forward to the continued recovery over the next 6 months of getting stronger and better.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
12 Hours of Sundance
Although the 12 Hours of Sundance is not a huge race, it is a lot fun. One of the things making this race so great is you can see all of the riders riding by as they head to the finish line. You cheer for those coming in, those going out and watch in awe all those tackling the 12 hours solo.
This year my goal for this race was to match or come close to what I raced last year. I have been feeling better lately (minus the ribs), and I felt this would be a good indicator of any little extra thing I might need to do for Moab.
About 2 days before the race it dawned on me I had not had any chest pain for at least 2 weeks! It had faded away so discretly I didn't even notice. I felt this race would be good opportunity to see where my recovery for my heart is. In all races thus far I have always had chest pain during the race. This race we would see if the chest pain comes back, or if it is gone for good.
My first lap was good. I went out at a good pace and was able to hold it the whole time. My downhill was tentative, but I expected that as I haven't done a lot of mountain biking since injuring my ribs. I finished my lap and discovered I was 5 minutes slower than last year. I felt good about that. I haven't been able to ride like I would like, and I am carrying 20 pounds of extra weight more than last year--not too bad considering all things. After my lap I cheered Dennis out and began to prepare for lap 2 that would be coming up. It was during this time I got my infamous "aura" that blinds me and then the migraine comes. Great timing when I still have more laps to do. Luckily I brougt a fold out mat and pillow, so I laid down and rested waiting for my next lap to come.
I have to thank the guy that was riding behind me on Archies for my improved 2nd lap time. I don't know if I would have pushed as hard if someone hadn't been behind be. I really didn't want to impede the rider, so I went as fast as I could, figuring if I wasn't fast enough he would ask to pass. Luckily he didn't need to pass until Scott's Pond just before the log stack. I kept going strong this lap. As I watched my clock I was sure I was going slower even though I felt faster. It turns out I was going faster and improved my lap time by one minute making me only 4 minutes slower than last years 2nd lap!
Third lap I was tired, but still able to ride and clear everything, although maybe not as quickly as my previous laps. On the last hill climb I was passed by a solo rider. I was so humbled to see him pass after riding all day long and this was only my third lap. I told him so, and his reply "it's always a great day when your on the bike." I couldn't agree more. I finished my 3rd lap strong and my downhill was finally back to what I like. My lap was 3 minutes slower than my 2nd lap, but I don't know what it was in comparison to last year. I forgot to look and it's not posted.
Anyway, all in all it turned out to be a great day to race and ride. Our team was entered in the Masters Coed. We took 2nd in our division, and an overall 2nd against all the other coed teams--yeah for us! Oh and the good news, no chest pain! Looks like the heart is starting to heal.
This year my goal for this race was to match or come close to what I raced last year. I have been feeling better lately (minus the ribs), and I felt this would be a good indicator of any little extra thing I might need to do for Moab.
About 2 days before the race it dawned on me I had not had any chest pain for at least 2 weeks! It had faded away so discretly I didn't even notice. I felt this race would be good opportunity to see where my recovery for my heart is. In all races thus far I have always had chest pain during the race. This race we would see if the chest pain comes back, or if it is gone for good.
My first lap was good. I went out at a good pace and was able to hold it the whole time. My downhill was tentative, but I expected that as I haven't done a lot of mountain biking since injuring my ribs. I finished my lap and discovered I was 5 minutes slower than last year. I felt good about that. I haven't been able to ride like I would like, and I am carrying 20 pounds of extra weight more than last year--not too bad considering all things. After my lap I cheered Dennis out and began to prepare for lap 2 that would be coming up. It was during this time I got my infamous "aura" that blinds me and then the migraine comes. Great timing when I still have more laps to do. Luckily I brougt a fold out mat and pillow, so I laid down and rested waiting for my next lap to come.
I have to thank the guy that was riding behind me on Archies for my improved 2nd lap time. I don't know if I would have pushed as hard if someone hadn't been behind be. I really didn't want to impede the rider, so I went as fast as I could, figuring if I wasn't fast enough he would ask to pass. Luckily he didn't need to pass until Scott's Pond just before the log stack. I kept going strong this lap. As I watched my clock I was sure I was going slower even though I felt faster. It turns out I was going faster and improved my lap time by one minute making me only 4 minutes slower than last years 2nd lap!
Third lap I was tired, but still able to ride and clear everything, although maybe not as quickly as my previous laps. On the last hill climb I was passed by a solo rider. I was so humbled to see him pass after riding all day long and this was only my third lap. I told him so, and his reply "it's always a great day when your on the bike." I couldn't agree more. I finished my 3rd lap strong and my downhill was finally back to what I like. My lap was 3 minutes slower than my 2nd lap, but I don't know what it was in comparison to last year. I forgot to look and it's not posted.
Anyway, all in all it turned out to be a great day to race and ride. Our team was entered in the Masters Coed. We took 2nd in our division, and an overall 2nd against all the other coed teams--yeah for us! Oh and the good news, no chest pain! Looks like the heart is starting to heal.
Team Scared Shiftless - James, Me, Tiffany and Dennis
Won a bicycle pizza cutter.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
What a RUSH
Last night was ladies night for a night ride, and what a great turn out there was. I forgot to count how many came, but there was 12 to 14 chicks out for a ride in the dark. Whitney led the ride--I think she could ride those trails blind folded, she know them so well. She took us up Clarks, down Rush, and on a bunch of other trails that led us eventually down to the parking lot, but I don't know the names of any of them.
All I have to say is awesome!!! The ride was awesome, the trails were awesome and I absolutely loved riding down RUSH. This trail has great bermed switchbacks, lots of good ups and downs and jumps, and is a fun downhill trail. I didn't do any jumps, first time on the trail and in the dark--yeah I don't think so. The trail was so much fun, I can't wait to go back and ride it in the day. Unfortunately it will have to wait until next week, because 12 Hours of Sundance is this Saturday. That's okay, because I am counting the days.
On a final note. For several of the ladies it was their first time riding at night and everyone did great, some close calls with birds and flat tire, but all was well. I hope they all had a good time and I hope that want to do more. See ya' next week!
All I have to say is awesome!!! The ride was awesome, the trails were awesome and I absolutely loved riding down RUSH. This trail has great bermed switchbacks, lots of good ups and downs and jumps, and is a fun downhill trail. I didn't do any jumps, first time on the trail and in the dark--yeah I don't think so. The trail was so much fun, I can't wait to go back and ride it in the day. Unfortunately it will have to wait until next week, because 12 Hours of Sundance is this Saturday. That's okay, because I am counting the days.
On a final note. For several of the ladies it was their first time riding at night and everyone did great, some close calls with birds and flat tire, but all was well. I hope they all had a good time and I hope that want to do more. See ya' next week!
Only photo of the night, unfortunately it does not show everyone that came.
Saturday, August 28, 2010
The Sock Dilemma
I don't mind doing laundry. In fact, it's one of the few household chores I don't mind doing. But there is one problem I have with laundry--the socks! Socks are the one nuisance of laundry. You put them in, take them out and then they go into a pile later to be serparated. My problem is taking the time to separate and match them up. Here is what happens when I don't separate them.
It's very hard to find a matching pair from the sock pile, in the dark, while you are trying to get ready for a bike ride and not wake up my husband.
Here is the problem. When I do finally separate them and put them away, somehow I end up with some missing socks! I know I had matches when I put them in the wash. What I want to know what happens to the socks in between getting wash, dried and ending up in the sock pile???
My guess these are my culprits.
I just wish I knew what they did with my socks.
The sock pile.
No matches for these socks :-(
Does anyone else have this problem, or is it just me?
Two First Days of School
Mandy started school like almost everyone else in the area on Wednesday.
Then we found out they had an opening in a charter school we had been considering getting her into. We took her there, toured the school and then enrolled. She was nervous about starting a new school, and was not thrilled about about wearing a uniform. After her 2nd first day of school the uniform was fine. She had a great time and now she has 2 firt day of school pics!
Happy first day.
Cute 2nd day pic.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
My Stupid Ride--Major Ouch!
I know some of us have done stupid things on a ride. Last Saturday's ride I had my fill of stupid on this ride. But first I need to digress to what led up to my stupid ride.
Now race season is over I can finally focus on getting fit, losing weight and generally getting back to good health. I started with taking up yoga. Absolutely love the classes I went to and was looking forward to many more. I also had started riding more, working on getting my heart up endurance wise. The long rides, and the yoga led to tight hamstrings in areas I have never felt tight, but no big deal, because I knew eventually the tightness and soreness would leave and I would be stronger for it. So Saturdays ride started out with tight, sore hamstrings.
Saturday was supposed to be a long, casual 3 hour ride. I was so looking forward to this, seeing new trails and getting in a really fun ride. The planned ride was Jurassic - Ridge - Mud Springs - Mill - 4 corners - Deer Creek South Fork - up to the Summit - back down Jurassic. I have never been down Mill, up Mill or on trail 157 to 4 corners. I had been reading about it and it sounded like the perfect adventure. That wouldn't be too long, but a different way to go.
We (Dennis and I) got off to a good early start. I should have realized the ride up Jurassic was going to be a prelude to the other climbs. My hamstrings were sore, and climbing was somewhat uncomfortable--not hard, but uncomfortable. We reached the summit and went on to the ridge trail. The climbing was not too bad from here to Mud Springs and my legs were doing okay.
The descent for Mud and Mill was great--great trail conditions, fast, fun riding and no mishaps. Then came the climb for Mill. I have never climbed Mill and did not know what to expect. It turned out to be a very scenic, fairly easy ride, but very, very long. For those who have ridden Solitude I-Cup race course, if you remember the switchbacks going to the top it was a lot like this. Going on forever and ever and ever. The ride was so long my legs got mad, very, very mad! I also became hungry before even reaching the top. Since I didn't want to collapse from being hungry and having tired, mad legs I stopped to eat and took some great pictures.
By the time I reached 4 corners I was soooo ready to go down hill and get back to the car. My legs were madder than a hornets nest and I was just plain tired. We had already been riding for 3 hours and I just wanted to be done.
The going from 4 corners to the Summit was pretty good, except for one thing--tons and tons of motorcycles. I forgot to mention there were motorcycles on every trail I was on, and twice as many on the trail up to the Summit. By the time I got to the Summit I was so sick of having to pull over for motorcycles. They were all polite, but I was very frustrated with choking on exhaust and dust in addition to being tired.
I was so looking forward to going down Jurassic. Being as tired as I was took it easy and didn't go fast as I normally would. Which was good, because I would hate to crash from being too tired to ride my bike. I was almost to the bottom when the major stupid happened. I hit one of the switchbacks that was rocky and sharp. Being not good enough to negotiate it, I got off and walked. Below the switch back was a loose, rocky trail.
Instead of clipping in and riding over it, I decided to coast over it no feet on the pedals. Stupid, stupid, stupid. I ended up bouncing on the rocks, bouncing into the mountain side, and then thrown off the trail and down the mountain side. I rolled down, down, down and injured my ribs on the way down. When I hit my ribs you could hear me cry out--I sounded like a wounded animal, it was so pathetic and painful.
Lucky for me a girl further down the trail heard me go down. She came to help me. She was so nice helping me get my bike picked up and making sure I as okay--I was definitely shook up. A quick assessment of me showed injured ribs, a piece of bark sticking out of my leg and a lot of scrapes and scratches (later turning to a lot of bruises), but nothing worse. The bike was okay and I could still ride well enough to get back to my car. I am so lucky nothing worse happened.
The stupid things I did on the ride I hope to never repeat:
1. Know exactly how long the trail is your are going on. If you are on a time limit experimenting and exploring is probably not the best idea. We were supposed to be going only 3 and instead we were gone 4 and a 1/2.
2. When you start a new exercise regime, don't plan something huge and big--give yourself a chance to recover.
3. Always clip into at least one pedal!!! If I had been clipped in the trail would not have controlled my bike, I would have. This was probably the most stupid thing I did. I am so mad I did this.
So now what? Well, each day is up and down. I had one day with very limited pain and other days with a lot of pain. I have discovered if I take the medication prescribed by the doctor the pain is more bearable. The doctor told me it will be awhile before I am pain free, but I can go back to riding as soon as I want. Although his recommendation was to not fall on the ribs as it would be very painful--I agree. I went on a road ride yesterday and it went well except for when I stood up to ride. I think it will be about 2 weeks before I can negotiate a mountain bike, but at least I can still ride.
Now race season is over I can finally focus on getting fit, losing weight and generally getting back to good health. I started with taking up yoga. Absolutely love the classes I went to and was looking forward to many more. I also had started riding more, working on getting my heart up endurance wise. The long rides, and the yoga led to tight hamstrings in areas I have never felt tight, but no big deal, because I knew eventually the tightness and soreness would leave and I would be stronger for it. So Saturdays ride started out with tight, sore hamstrings.
Saturday was supposed to be a long, casual 3 hour ride. I was so looking forward to this, seeing new trails and getting in a really fun ride. The planned ride was Jurassic - Ridge - Mud Springs - Mill - 4 corners - Deer Creek South Fork - up to the Summit - back down Jurassic. I have never been down Mill, up Mill or on trail 157 to 4 corners. I had been reading about it and it sounded like the perfect adventure. That wouldn't be too long, but a different way to go.
We (Dennis and I) got off to a good early start. I should have realized the ride up Jurassic was going to be a prelude to the other climbs. My hamstrings were sore, and climbing was somewhat uncomfortable--not hard, but uncomfortable. We reached the summit and went on to the ridge trail. The climbing was not too bad from here to Mud Springs and my legs were doing okay.
The descent for Mud and Mill was great--great trail conditions, fast, fun riding and no mishaps. Then came the climb for Mill. I have never climbed Mill and did not know what to expect. It turned out to be a very scenic, fairly easy ride, but very, very long. For those who have ridden Solitude I-Cup race course, if you remember the switchbacks going to the top it was a lot like this. Going on forever and ever and ever. The ride was so long my legs got mad, very, very mad! I also became hungry before even reaching the top. Since I didn't want to collapse from being hungry and having tired, mad legs I stopped to eat and took some great pictures.
The going from 4 corners to the Summit was pretty good, except for one thing--tons and tons of motorcycles. I forgot to mention there were motorcycles on every trail I was on, and twice as many on the trail up to the Summit. By the time I got to the Summit I was so sick of having to pull over for motorcycles. They were all polite, but I was very frustrated with choking on exhaust and dust in addition to being tired.
I was so looking forward to going down Jurassic. Being as tired as I was took it easy and didn't go fast as I normally would. Which was good, because I would hate to crash from being too tired to ride my bike. I was almost to the bottom when the major stupid happened. I hit one of the switchbacks that was rocky and sharp. Being not good enough to negotiate it, I got off and walked. Below the switch back was a loose, rocky trail.
The mountain I rolled down.
The stupid things I did on the ride I hope to never repeat:
1. Know exactly how long the trail is your are going on. If you are on a time limit experimenting and exploring is probably not the best idea. We were supposed to be going only 3 and instead we were gone 4 and a 1/2.
2. When you start a new exercise regime, don't plan something huge and big--give yourself a chance to recover.
3. Always clip into at least one pedal!!! If I had been clipped in the trail would not have controlled my bike, I would have. This was probably the most stupid thing I did. I am so mad I did this.
So now what? Well, each day is up and down. I had one day with very limited pain and other days with a lot of pain. I have discovered if I take the medication prescribed by the doctor the pain is more bearable. The doctor told me it will be awhile before I am pain free, but I can go back to riding as soon as I want. Although his recommendation was to not fall on the ribs as it would be very painful--I agree. I went on a road ride yesterday and it went well except for when I stood up to ride. I think it will be about 2 weeks before I can negotiate a mountain bike, but at least I can still ride.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
The Canyons Finale
There were no expectations for this last race. Due to being sick and Royce having surgery I did not get to pre-ride the course. I had gotten some good descriptions, but had a hard time visualizing it except for the fire road climb up and down--luckily that part was taken out.
There were 11 women in my division for this race which is a great showing. Our group got off to a rough start 2 women ended up skidding on the loose dirt with one of them bring me down. She was very apologetic, and I told her no worries--stuff happens The climb was not so bad, and I was able to see most of the group (a first in a long time) up until we entered the singletrack. At that point they became lost in the trees and turns.
The climb seemed long, even though it wasn't, and I persisted at the best pace I could go. At one point there was a long train of racers behind me. This really concerned me, I was worried I was holding people up, but no one asked to pass, so I kept going. Eventually a couple of people passed and I kept pluggin' along. Boy was I happy when we made the down hill.
I "killed" the down hill! Everyone that passed me going up, I passed back and I ended up passing some that had started in front of me. Everyone was great about letting me pass and because of their cooperation I ended up coming in for my 2nd lap with two others from my division--a first!
The second lap was short since we did the 12 year old lap. The gals that came in with me on the first lap ended up putting only a short distance between us on the climb. I felt confidant I could pass them on the down hill. Just prior to entering the single track one of the gals got a flat. Up next was to catch the second gal. I ripped down the hill and was closing the gap when I ended up falling/bobbling on the last switchback. I got back on my bike and took off, but it was just enough to prevent me from catching her.
I took 7th place and was only 7 minutes behind 2nd place and seperated by just minutes with the other places! I finally am seeing progress as I work my way towards recovery.
Surprisingly I took 3rd overall for the season. I am happy about the overall win, but somewhat ambivalent. I don't know that I really deserve it. I didn't show up to all of the races, for obvious races (the surgery and such). I only placed in the top 3 and 4 one or 2 times, the rest of the time I was mid-pack or at the very bottom. I was never the fastest person out there or for that matter even remotely close. So there are mixed feelings about the whole thing. But I won it and now can aim for something higher.
The season was good and very hard, I am somewhat relieved it is over. I don't know that anyone should use racing as part of their recovery, but I did--no regrets. I learned a lot about myself. There were many times I wondered why I was doing this, but it seems each race there was someone or something to remind me. I am glad the season is over now and I can just ride and really begin my way towards recovery--I think it is long over do.
There were 11 women in my division for this race which is a great showing. Our group got off to a rough start 2 women ended up skidding on the loose dirt with one of them bring me down. She was very apologetic, and I told her no worries--stuff happens The climb was not so bad, and I was able to see most of the group (a first in a long time) up until we entered the singletrack. At that point they became lost in the trees and turns.
I "killed" the down hill! Everyone that passed me going up, I passed back and I ended up passing some that had started in front of me. Everyone was great about letting me pass and because of their cooperation I ended up coming in for my 2nd lap with two others from my division--a first!
I took 7th place and was only 7 minutes behind 2nd place and seperated by just minutes with the other places! I finally am seeing progress as I work my way towards recovery.
Surprisingly I took 3rd overall for the season. I am happy about the overall win, but somewhat ambivalent. I don't know that I really deserve it. I didn't show up to all of the races, for obvious races (the surgery and such). I only placed in the top 3 and 4 one or 2 times, the rest of the time I was mid-pack or at the very bottom. I was never the fastest person out there or for that matter even remotely close. So there are mixed feelings about the whole thing. But I won it and now can aim for something higher.
Picture taken by Lyna Saffell
The season was good and very hard, I am somewhat relieved it is over. I don't know that anyone should use racing as part of their recovery, but I did--no regrets. I learned a lot about myself. There were many times I wondered why I was doing this, but it seems each race there was someone or something to remind me. I am glad the season is over now and I can just ride and really begin my way towards recovery--I think it is long over do.
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