Decided to eat a grilled cheese sandwich and some chips.....then do a one mile race around the Capitol square. Seemed like a good idea at the time. Surprisingly, I couldn't talk Jennifer into giving it a try. (she's too smart to be lured into such foolishness.) She did agree to come along to take some pic's though. I should probably mention I hadn't run for the month leading up to this.....
Luckily the masters race didn't start until 4:15, so I had plenty of time to register, and get decent warm-up in. I also got to use the restroom in the Capitol...quite an upgrade from the usual porta-potties.
I watched a few of the other categories prior to my race. The mens open was won by a 20 something guy....with a time of 4:14. Even young kids were putting in competitive times....this did not bode well for me.
We finally line up for the start of the masters race. I recognize another racer from some of my duathlons. Again, not a good sign, as he always finishes ahead of me. The start was pretty fast, as expected. I tried to settle into about 6th place or so. I felt good for most of the first lap, but the uphill section started to take it out of me. The lead group of 5 gapped me by about 15 yards. I managed to maintain that gap, but couldn't close it down. The last turn into the finish had my legs feeling like noodles. Aerobically I was doing ok, but my legs weren't used to the speed.
I ended up being passed by two guys, and a really fast girl....all in the last 75 yards or so. I ended up with a decent time of 5:25. I was pretty happy with that, considering I hadn't run in a month or so.
I was completely and totally done after the race. I couldn't stop coughing for 30 minutes, and generally felt pretty crappy. I guess that's what happens when you decide to run a fast mile after eating a grilled cheese, and not running for a month.
I think if I focus more on this race for next year, I could go sub 5 minutes. The winner of the masters race came in at 4:56, so I think I'd have a chance.
Overall, not a bad afternoon, sure beat sitting on the couch watching tv.
Here's a link to the results.
I'll post some pic's soon.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Monday, August 11, 2008
Holy Hill Superweek Road Race
Alright, I'm almost caught up on posts.
Chris, Karl, and I made the trip over to Hartford on July 21st. Somehow I thought it would be a good idea to ride 5 laps of a hilly 8.1 mile course. (I was about to find out that it wasn't such a good idea....well, for me anyway.)
Chris and I loaded up the Element and made the 1 1/2 hour drive to Pike Lake State Park. Fairly uneventful drive over, without much traffic. Karl and Becky were driving separately, as they had to retrieve the pop-up camper from Becky's parents after the race. We made our way to pick up our numbers, and were a little surprised, for such a big event, the registration process was pretty slow. (and one woman was not what you'd call "customer service friendly") We eventually got our numbers and made it back to the vehicles. Other riders really started to pile in, and the lot was filling up fast. Karl and Becky got a spot right next to ours, which worked out well. I spoke with a few Brazen Dropout Masters riders before the race....trying to get some advice from them. Basically, ride fast, stay towards the front, and of course....watch out for crashes. I was able to watch out for crashes....but that was about it.
The atmosphere was pretty cool. A lot of big name teams, and the SRAM neutral support vehicles were sweet! We rode around checking out the scene, and eventually rolled out on the park roads for a quick warm-up. The actual "warm-up" didn't take very long, as it was already getting pretty toasty outside. The heat was definitely going to be a factor today. We were luckier than most, as the sun came out full force for the afternoon races. The starts times were running about 20 minutes behind schedule, so we rode around the parking lot waiting for the Masters race to go, and we were right after. I elected to do the Cat 4 race instead of Masters. Mostly because I didn't think I had the legs to go 50 miles, and I also wanted to race with Chris and Karl. (the young guys)
All 3 of us had pretty good start positions, but that didn't last long for Karl and myself. The "neutral" roll-out wasn't exactly neutral. There was a lot of jockeying for position on the way to the start. Unfortunately, Karl and I ended up towards the back. (we were "foolishly" following the yellow line rule) Chris was smart and wedged his was towards the front....while still obeying the yellow line rule. As I was to find out, a good front position was going to be key. (as it always is...)
The gun sounded and we were off. No real accelerations materialized, as it was mostly downhill for awhile. A few hard brake checks, but nothing too crazy. We eventually made a hard right, after a steep downhill....and the s@@t hit the fan. The first short kicker hill induced a hard acceleration, and I knew I was in trouble. I told Karl earlier that he should try to move up in the pack....I wish I had taken my own advice. I was off the back by about 20 yards, and try as I might, I just couldn't close down the gap. The group kept on the gas, as they knew they had some of us in difficulty. Karl fared better than I, but he never really made it back into the main group either. Chris was smart and strong, he stayed in the front half of the group and matched their accelerations.
I spent the rest of the race in time trial mode. I'm too damn stubborn to just admit I was out of contention. I gave it all I had for the rest of the race. I'd eventually catch a lone rider, and we'd work together for awhile....until they said, "oh, there's my support vehicle, I'm done." So, I'd move on to the next rider, or small group. I started cramping on lap 3 or so, and it only go worse from there.
I caught a guy just before the downhill on Cty E, and recovered in his draft for awhile. I eventually pulled around to take my pull....unfortunately, he never returned the favor. He looked like he was in his mid-twenties, and in decent shape, so I'm sure he was capable of taking a pull. (come on, we've been dropped big time, I'm not able to pull you back up to the group) He eventually came around and slowly pulled away from me on one of the climbs. I latched onto a couple of dropped Master racers, they were flying, and I took my turn at the front. Unfortunately, two of us couldn't hold the pace on the next climb....so I was all alone again. I dragged myself around for the final lap....the thought of getting caught by the field was enough to keep me moving. While it was close, I managed to not get lapped. I "sprinted" in by myself for DFL. I'm pretty sure there were a lot of guys who called it quits. (maybe they were racing the series, or maybe they just had enough) Either way, I finished the race.... dead last, but I was NOT going to quit.
Chris had an awesome race, even though he had a few close calls. Apparently there was some close quarters fighting for position, and one guy bumped another rider....sending him towards Chris. He thinks a quick release, or maybe a pedal made into his spokes. He managed to keep it upright, and stay in the group! (now there's some bike handling skills for you) He fought hard to the finish, and managed a well deserved 15th place. (in the money no less)
Karl managed to catch onto dropped rides throughout the race. He'd try to get them to work together, but didn't have much luck. He ended up hammering it to the next group, then the next, and so on. He pulled a young guy to the finish line, where Karl barely lost the sprint to youth....and good looks. (both of which Karl is in short supply;) I shouldn't talk, because I rolled in quite a bit later....for 45th place. I was cramping so badly at the finish, I couldn't bend my left leg. I managed to lean on the finishing barriers for a few minutes....until I could actually move.
Overall a fun race, but bad positioning, and a lack of experience made it a tough go. I wish I could have hung in there for a few laps, but hopefully I learned a little bit for future races. Here's a link to the results.
We did stay around to watch the Pro 1/2 guys race. I have to say, they are at a totally different level. The Rock Racing Team was there with the Escalade, and the CTS.....pretty sweet set-up. Karl and Chris both took some nice pic's, check them out. Here are a few of the hi-lites.
The calm before the storm....
Karl cresting the feedzone hill....where's everyone else?
Karl getting pipped at the finish...by a youngster
Mark, barely able to get out of his own way....(notice no one near me)
Chris....show me da' money!!
Chris, Karl, and I made the trip over to Hartford on July 21st. Somehow I thought it would be a good idea to ride 5 laps of a hilly 8.1 mile course. (I was about to find out that it wasn't such a good idea....well, for me anyway.)
Chris and I loaded up the Element and made the 1 1/2 hour drive to Pike Lake State Park. Fairly uneventful drive over, without much traffic. Karl and Becky were driving separately, as they had to retrieve the pop-up camper from Becky's parents after the race. We made our way to pick up our numbers, and were a little surprised, for such a big event, the registration process was pretty slow. (and one woman was not what you'd call "customer service friendly") We eventually got our numbers and made it back to the vehicles. Other riders really started to pile in, and the lot was filling up fast. Karl and Becky got a spot right next to ours, which worked out well. I spoke with a few Brazen Dropout Masters riders before the race....trying to get some advice from them. Basically, ride fast, stay towards the front, and of course....watch out for crashes. I was able to watch out for crashes....but that was about it.
The atmosphere was pretty cool. A lot of big name teams, and the SRAM neutral support vehicles were sweet! We rode around checking out the scene, and eventually rolled out on the park roads for a quick warm-up. The actual "warm-up" didn't take very long, as it was already getting pretty toasty outside. The heat was definitely going to be a factor today. We were luckier than most, as the sun came out full force for the afternoon races. The starts times were running about 20 minutes behind schedule, so we rode around the parking lot waiting for the Masters race to go, and we were right after. I elected to do the Cat 4 race instead of Masters. Mostly because I didn't think I had the legs to go 50 miles, and I also wanted to race with Chris and Karl. (the young guys)
All 3 of us had pretty good start positions, but that didn't last long for Karl and myself. The "neutral" roll-out wasn't exactly neutral. There was a lot of jockeying for position on the way to the start. Unfortunately, Karl and I ended up towards the back. (we were "foolishly" following the yellow line rule) Chris was smart and wedged his was towards the front....while still obeying the yellow line rule. As I was to find out, a good front position was going to be key. (as it always is...)
The gun sounded and we were off. No real accelerations materialized, as it was mostly downhill for awhile. A few hard brake checks, but nothing too crazy. We eventually made a hard right, after a steep downhill....and the s@@t hit the fan. The first short kicker hill induced a hard acceleration, and I knew I was in trouble. I told Karl earlier that he should try to move up in the pack....I wish I had taken my own advice. I was off the back by about 20 yards, and try as I might, I just couldn't close down the gap. The group kept on the gas, as they knew they had some of us in difficulty. Karl fared better than I, but he never really made it back into the main group either. Chris was smart and strong, he stayed in the front half of the group and matched their accelerations.
I spent the rest of the race in time trial mode. I'm too damn stubborn to just admit I was out of contention. I gave it all I had for the rest of the race. I'd eventually catch a lone rider, and we'd work together for awhile....until they said, "oh, there's my support vehicle, I'm done." So, I'd move on to the next rider, or small group. I started cramping on lap 3 or so, and it only go worse from there.
I caught a guy just before the downhill on Cty E, and recovered in his draft for awhile. I eventually pulled around to take my pull....unfortunately, he never returned the favor. He looked like he was in his mid-twenties, and in decent shape, so I'm sure he was capable of taking a pull. (come on, we've been dropped big time, I'm not able to pull you back up to the group) He eventually came around and slowly pulled away from me on one of the climbs. I latched onto a couple of dropped Master racers, they were flying, and I took my turn at the front. Unfortunately, two of us couldn't hold the pace on the next climb....so I was all alone again. I dragged myself around for the final lap....the thought of getting caught by the field was enough to keep me moving. While it was close, I managed to not get lapped. I "sprinted" in by myself for DFL. I'm pretty sure there were a lot of guys who called it quits. (maybe they were racing the series, or maybe they just had enough) Either way, I finished the race.... dead last, but I was NOT going to quit.
Chris had an awesome race, even though he had a few close calls. Apparently there was some close quarters fighting for position, and one guy bumped another rider....sending him towards Chris. He thinks a quick release, or maybe a pedal made into his spokes. He managed to keep it upright, and stay in the group! (now there's some bike handling skills for you) He fought hard to the finish, and managed a well deserved 15th place. (in the money no less)
Karl managed to catch onto dropped rides throughout the race. He'd try to get them to work together, but didn't have much luck. He ended up hammering it to the next group, then the next, and so on. He pulled a young guy to the finish line, where Karl barely lost the sprint to youth....and good looks. (both of which Karl is in short supply;) I shouldn't talk, because I rolled in quite a bit later....for 45th place. I was cramping so badly at the finish, I couldn't bend my left leg. I managed to lean on the finishing barriers for a few minutes....until I could actually move.
Overall a fun race, but bad positioning, and a lack of experience made it a tough go. I wish I could have hung in there for a few laps, but hopefully I learned a little bit for future races. Here's a link to the results.
We did stay around to watch the Pro 1/2 guys race. I have to say, they are at a totally different level. The Rock Racing Team was there with the Escalade, and the CTS.....pretty sweet set-up. Karl and Chris both took some nice pic's, check them out. Here are a few of the hi-lites.
The calm before the storm....
Karl cresting the feedzone hill....where's everyone else?
Karl getting pipped at the finish...by a youngster
Mark, barely able to get out of his own way....(notice no one near me)
Chris....show me da' money!!
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Levis/Trow 2008 (aka Levis Trousers)
I know, I'm way behind on posting.....but I'm working on it.
Karl and I drove the Element up to Hatfield for the Levis Trow 100 Endurance MTB Race. Neither one of us had done a mountain bike race.....especially one that lasted 6 hours.
We met Chris, Gail, John, and Michele who had arrived earlier in the day. (and saved us a sweet parking spot, Thanks!) Upon arriving, we noticed an inordinate amount of ambulances in the parking lot.....not a good sign. We thought maybe they were preparing for our inevitable crash. (No doubt they had heard of our mad skilz' on the mtb's, and were anxious to practice their triage technique.) Thankfully it turned out to be some fairly minor crashes, but we were still a little worried. Experienced, fully capable mountain bikers were being carted off by ambulance...this did not bode well for us. The weather was surprisingly cool....and occasionally rainy. Thankfully by the time our race started, the sun had come back out, sort of.
The race begins with a Lemans style start. (everyone running to their bikes) Karl and I were probably two of the fastest runners there. Unfortunately, we were also probably two of the slowest mountain bikers. We could have led the race....for about the first 20 seconds or so, but opted to hang back and stay out of the way.
The start was fairly uneventful, since it was double track for the first 1/4 mile or so. Once we dumped into the single track, the fun really started. I managed to stick with Michele for awhile. The course got pretty technical, and Michele graciously let me go around. (so she'd have a better view of me crashing no doubt.) I actually felt pretty good that first lap. There was A LOT of climbing, and riding the single speed with a 32/19 gear didn't really help. I could have used a 22, but no such luck. The trail eventually leveled out and got faster. I was just starting to get a good flow going.....and the next thing you know my front tire rolls off the rim. Sweet, now I have a fully inflated tube wrapped around my fork. I jump off and commence to the repair. (while Michele passes me by the way) Karl stops to make sure I'm ok, and hangs out for awhile. (Thanks!)The tube seems to be in good shape, so I re-use it. (of course that causes a problem later on) I used my hand pump, instead of bringing CO2....big mistake, way too slow. I re-mount and take off down the trail, trying to make up time. Unfortunately, the tube must have a slow leak, so I end up stopping again to replace with a new tube. Nice, there goes another 5 minutes. I eventually roll back in around 1 hour 54 minutes.
I grab a quick bite to eat, and head back out. The second lap was less eventful...as far as no major mis-haps. I did manage to almost launch myself over the bars. I over cooked it into a loose left hand corner, and the front wheel started to wash out. I saved it, but at the expense of some skin. The momentum from the slide threw me forward on the bike. I smacked my knee on the two bolts holding the stem....needless to say, this was really painful. I told myself to keep pedaling and work it out. I knew if I stopped, it would lock up tight. Also on my second lap I rolled up on fellow blogger Brittany. I linked to her blog off Renee's Madcross site. I introduced myself best I could. (although breathing was difficult at the time) Brittany always has some interesting, funny, and entertaining stuff on her blog...check it out. We parted ways at the 25 mile turn off, and I was on my own for awhile. I started cramping later in the lap....never a good sign. I did manage to roll in at 1 hour 44 minutes....better than expected.
Karl was back at the vehicle re-fueling, so we decided to try and ride the last lap together. I was doing ok until we hit the first real climbs. The cramping kicked in with a vengeance. I was relegated to walking a few times....even on some of the "easier" climbs. Karl was nice guy and waited for me....although I think both of us were feeling the affects by then. Karl gave up one of his gels in an attempt to stave off my cramping. We managed to straggle in with a 2 hour 3 minute lap time. (including our rest break) We debated going out for a 4th lap, but decided against it. I was cramping bad enough during the last lap, a 4th would have been really tough. Hind site....we probably should have gone out for the 4th, but at the time, it was the right decision.
Michele was riding like a woman posessed, and ended up first in the Women's 50 Mile Solo. She was riding consistent 1 hour 40 minute lap times. Nice job Michele, way to go! Gail rode a strong race knocking out 3 laps, and finishing in 4th place.
Chris and John were battling it out for bragging rights. Chris finally heard the unmistakeable "ding-ding" of John's infamous compass bell. John eventually pulled in about 9 minutes ahead of Chris. Both rode some pretty impressive lap times...in the 1:20's for most of the day. John finished 15th, and Chris 16th, in a very competitive 50 Mile Men's Solo Division. Nice job guy's! Here's a link to the detailed results.
After the awards we packed up and headed towards Black River Falls. Everyone was pretty hungry, so we chowed down at the local Perkins.....good food, but kind of slow service. I also had a MAJOR hamstring cramp while sitting at the table. Needless to say, I was hopping around trying to work that out. I'm sure the other customers thought I was a freak....but you gotta' do what you gotta' do in a situation like that. We ended up rolling into Stoughton around 12:30 am. Overall a really fun race. I learned a lot....things I'd have to put into use at 24 Hours of 9 Mile.....but that's another post all together.
Here are a few pic's courtesy of Karl...
The Element comes in real handy
John, Michele, and Chris hang out in style
Chris welcomes Gail back from her last lap
Do I really need to say anything?
Karl and I drove the Element up to Hatfield for the Levis Trow 100 Endurance MTB Race. Neither one of us had done a mountain bike race.....especially one that lasted 6 hours.
We met Chris, Gail, John, and Michele who had arrived earlier in the day. (and saved us a sweet parking spot, Thanks!) Upon arriving, we noticed an inordinate amount of ambulances in the parking lot.....not a good sign. We thought maybe they were preparing for our inevitable crash. (No doubt they had heard of our mad skilz' on the mtb's, and were anxious to practice their triage technique.) Thankfully it turned out to be some fairly minor crashes, but we were still a little worried. Experienced, fully capable mountain bikers were being carted off by ambulance...this did not bode well for us. The weather was surprisingly cool....and occasionally rainy. Thankfully by the time our race started, the sun had come back out, sort of.
The race begins with a Lemans style start. (everyone running to their bikes) Karl and I were probably two of the fastest runners there. Unfortunately, we were also probably two of the slowest mountain bikers. We could have led the race....for about the first 20 seconds or so, but opted to hang back and stay out of the way.
The start was fairly uneventful, since it was double track for the first 1/4 mile or so. Once we dumped into the single track, the fun really started. I managed to stick with Michele for awhile. The course got pretty technical, and Michele graciously let me go around. (so she'd have a better view of me crashing no doubt.) I actually felt pretty good that first lap. There was A LOT of climbing, and riding the single speed with a 32/19 gear didn't really help. I could have used a 22, but no such luck. The trail eventually leveled out and got faster. I was just starting to get a good flow going.....and the next thing you know my front tire rolls off the rim. Sweet, now I have a fully inflated tube wrapped around my fork. I jump off and commence to the repair. (while Michele passes me by the way) Karl stops to make sure I'm ok, and hangs out for awhile. (Thanks!)The tube seems to be in good shape, so I re-use it. (of course that causes a problem later on) I used my hand pump, instead of bringing CO2....big mistake, way too slow. I re-mount and take off down the trail, trying to make up time. Unfortunately, the tube must have a slow leak, so I end up stopping again to replace with a new tube. Nice, there goes another 5 minutes. I eventually roll back in around 1 hour 54 minutes.
I grab a quick bite to eat, and head back out. The second lap was less eventful...as far as no major mis-haps. I did manage to almost launch myself over the bars. I over cooked it into a loose left hand corner, and the front wheel started to wash out. I saved it, but at the expense of some skin. The momentum from the slide threw me forward on the bike. I smacked my knee on the two bolts holding the stem....needless to say, this was really painful. I told myself to keep pedaling and work it out. I knew if I stopped, it would lock up tight. Also on my second lap I rolled up on fellow blogger Brittany. I linked to her blog off Renee's Madcross site. I introduced myself best I could. (although breathing was difficult at the time) Brittany always has some interesting, funny, and entertaining stuff on her blog...check it out. We parted ways at the 25 mile turn off, and I was on my own for awhile. I started cramping later in the lap....never a good sign. I did manage to roll in at 1 hour 44 minutes....better than expected.
Karl was back at the vehicle re-fueling, so we decided to try and ride the last lap together. I was doing ok until we hit the first real climbs. The cramping kicked in with a vengeance. I was relegated to walking a few times....even on some of the "easier" climbs. Karl was nice guy and waited for me....although I think both of us were feeling the affects by then. Karl gave up one of his gels in an attempt to stave off my cramping. We managed to straggle in with a 2 hour 3 minute lap time. (including our rest break) We debated going out for a 4th lap, but decided against it. I was cramping bad enough during the last lap, a 4th would have been really tough. Hind site....we probably should have gone out for the 4th, but at the time, it was the right decision.
Michele was riding like a woman posessed, and ended up first in the Women's 50 Mile Solo. She was riding consistent 1 hour 40 minute lap times. Nice job Michele, way to go! Gail rode a strong race knocking out 3 laps, and finishing in 4th place.
Chris and John were battling it out for bragging rights. Chris finally heard the unmistakeable "ding-ding" of John's infamous compass bell. John eventually pulled in about 9 minutes ahead of Chris. Both rode some pretty impressive lap times...in the 1:20's for most of the day. John finished 15th, and Chris 16th, in a very competitive 50 Mile Men's Solo Division. Nice job guy's! Here's a link to the detailed results.
After the awards we packed up and headed towards Black River Falls. Everyone was pretty hungry, so we chowed down at the local Perkins.....good food, but kind of slow service. I also had a MAJOR hamstring cramp while sitting at the table. Needless to say, I was hopping around trying to work that out. I'm sure the other customers thought I was a freak....but you gotta' do what you gotta' do in a situation like that. We ended up rolling into Stoughton around 12:30 am. Overall a really fun race. I learned a lot....things I'd have to put into use at 24 Hours of 9 Mile.....but that's another post all together.
Here are a few pic's courtesy of Karl...
The Element comes in real handy
John, Michele, and Chris hang out in style
Chris welcomes Gail back from her last lap
Do I really need to say anything?
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Metlife Duathlon 2008
OK, I'm slowly catching up on posts.
Karl, Jennifer, and I made the long haul to Tinley Park Illinois for the Metlife Du. We've done this race four years in a row, so we couldn't pass it up.
Karl's parents are nice enough to let us stay with them. Lucky for us, they only live 30 minutes from the course.
We made it to the race early, with intentions of getting a good warm up. The course is a 2mi/11mi/2mi, so it's fast from the start. Unfortunately, just as we pulled into a spot, it started to rain. We waited it out, but lost valuable warm up time.
We did manage to get decent spots in transition, so that was a plus. The weather was warm and humid, and if the sun came out, it was going to be brutal.
Karl and I lined up together for the Men's start. I made into a fast group...and we were flying. I checked my watch at the one mile turnaround....5:25. Needless to say, I figured I'd better back it down for the second mile. Karl wasn't too far behind me, and ended up passing me before transition. We were both passed by a guy pushing someone in a wheelchair. I give this guy HUGE kudos for giving it everything he had. I believe he was part of a relay team, but still, an awesome display of drive and determination.
We were on our bikes quickly, and out onto the flat, fast course. I tried to stay with Karl, but as usual he slowly pulled away from me. I rode a steady pace and felt pretty good. No offense to the FIB's, but most of them can't climb to save their lives. No fault of their own mind you.....it's pretty flat down there. I hammered it up and over the only "climb" on the course. (which was actually an overpass) I dropped a half dozen guys right there. Unfortunately, they may not be able to climb, but they sure can run.....
I came out of T2 feeling ok, but definitely not great. I haven't been doing a lot of bricks, and it was going to cost me at this race. I must have lost 6-8 spots on the second run. My legs never really came around, and I had to really gut it out the last 100 yards or so. I probably could have pipped a guy on the line, but I felt a little bad for him, so we came in neck and neck.
Jennifer had good race as usual, but there was some tough competition this year. Her runs are coming along, but her bike was where she put some time into people. I'm not sure how she managed it, but she had a faster bike time than last year....with a lot less training. Go figure. Hopefully she can improve her runs for next year, as I really think a top 3 AG finish is possible.
Here's the lowdown on every one's results, as well as a link to the race site:
Jennifer - Run 1: 17:01 T1: 1:01 Bike: 31:46 T2: 1:05 Run 2: 18:31 Total: 1:09:22
She finished 7/28 women in her age group, and 127th overall (out of 372) Jennifer also had the 7th fastest women's bike time, (20.8 avg.)and the 75th fastest bike time overall.
Karl - Run 1: 13:06 T1: :48 Bike: 27:03 T2: :43 Run 2: 14:16 Total: 55:54
Karl had an awesome race. He's really picked it up this year. He finished 5/39 in his AG, and 12th out of 372. He also had the 3rd fastest bike time overall. (24.4 avg.) Keep it up.....but stay out of the 40-49 AG. I've got a enough competition as it is.
Mark - Run 1: 13:08 T1: :48 Bike: 28:03 T2: :52 Run 2: 15:29 (bummer) Total: 58:19
I had a decent race....right up to my second run. I ended up 6/35 in my AG, and 28th out of 372. Overall I can't complain, it's my own fault for not working those second runs harder. I have a lot of work to do for next year.
Thanks to Karl's parents for letting us hang out at their place, very much appreciated. Looking forward to next years race.
Here are a few pics' courtesy of Karl:
Karl and I heading back in from the first run.
Look really close...behind the guy in the hat...next to the short guy...that's me.
Jennifer's moving so fast...she's out running the shadows.
Here's the view from Katrina's world...she's short...we're tall.
We managed to smile....although it was the first time none of us came home with a medal this year.
Karl, Jennifer, and I made the long haul to Tinley Park Illinois for the Metlife Du. We've done this race four years in a row, so we couldn't pass it up.
Karl's parents are nice enough to let us stay with them. Lucky for us, they only live 30 minutes from the course.
We made it to the race early, with intentions of getting a good warm up. The course is a 2mi/11mi/2mi, so it's fast from the start. Unfortunately, just as we pulled into a spot, it started to rain. We waited it out, but lost valuable warm up time.
We did manage to get decent spots in transition, so that was a plus. The weather was warm and humid, and if the sun came out, it was going to be brutal.
Karl and I lined up together for the Men's start. I made into a fast group...and we were flying. I checked my watch at the one mile turnaround....5:25. Needless to say, I figured I'd better back it down for the second mile. Karl wasn't too far behind me, and ended up passing me before transition. We were both passed by a guy pushing someone in a wheelchair. I give this guy HUGE kudos for giving it everything he had. I believe he was part of a relay team, but still, an awesome display of drive and determination.
We were on our bikes quickly, and out onto the flat, fast course. I tried to stay with Karl, but as usual he slowly pulled away from me. I rode a steady pace and felt pretty good. No offense to the FIB's, but most of them can't climb to save their lives. No fault of their own mind you.....it's pretty flat down there. I hammered it up and over the only "climb" on the course. (which was actually an overpass) I dropped a half dozen guys right there. Unfortunately, they may not be able to climb, but they sure can run.....
I came out of T2 feeling ok, but definitely not great. I haven't been doing a lot of bricks, and it was going to cost me at this race. I must have lost 6-8 spots on the second run. My legs never really came around, and I had to really gut it out the last 100 yards or so. I probably could have pipped a guy on the line, but I felt a little bad for him, so we came in neck and neck.
Jennifer had good race as usual, but there was some tough competition this year. Her runs are coming along, but her bike was where she put some time into people. I'm not sure how she managed it, but she had a faster bike time than last year....with a lot less training. Go figure. Hopefully she can improve her runs for next year, as I really think a top 3 AG finish is possible.
Here's the lowdown on every one's results, as well as a link to the race site:
Jennifer - Run 1: 17:01 T1: 1:01 Bike: 31:46 T2: 1:05 Run 2: 18:31 Total: 1:09:22
She finished 7/28 women in her age group, and 127th overall (out of 372) Jennifer also had the 7th fastest women's bike time, (20.8 avg.)and the 75th fastest bike time overall.
Karl - Run 1: 13:06 T1: :48 Bike: 27:03 T2: :43 Run 2: 14:16 Total: 55:54
Karl had an awesome race. He's really picked it up this year. He finished 5/39 in his AG, and 12th out of 372. He also had the 3rd fastest bike time overall. (24.4 avg.) Keep it up.....but stay out of the 40-49 AG. I've got a enough competition as it is.
Mark - Run 1: 13:08 T1: :48 Bike: 28:03 T2: :52 Run 2: 15:29 (bummer) Total: 58:19
I had a decent race....right up to my second run. I ended up 6/35 in my AG, and 28th out of 372. Overall I can't complain, it's my own fault for not working those second runs harder. I have a lot of work to do for next year.
Thanks to Karl's parents for letting us hang out at their place, very much appreciated. Looking forward to next years race.
Here are a few pics' courtesy of Karl:
Karl and I heading back in from the first run.
Look really close...behind the guy in the hat...next to the short guy...that's me.
Jennifer's moving so fast...she's out running the shadows.
Here's the view from Katrina's world...she's short...we're tall.
We managed to smile....although it was the first time none of us came home with a medal this year.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
The "Great" Evansville Duathlon 2008
Karl and I made the short trip to Evansville to attend, "The Great Evansville Duathlon. "Great" might be a bit of an exaggeration, but it's definitely "good", of course that wouldn't sound quite right....so "Great" it is.
This is definitely one of the tougher duathlons we compete in, due to the distance....and the hills. The course is 3.1 mi/20 mile/3.1 mi, certainly longer runs than we're used to doing. The weather was pretty warm and muggy, but we were ready to give it a 100%....as usual.
The first run started out pretty quick. Karl and I stuck together for most of the 3.1 miles, with him putting a slight gap on me in the last 1/4 mile or so. Again, no splits, but as I recall we were in around 21 minutes. We were neck and neck heading out of transition, but Karl ramped it up on the bike. I tried to stay with him, but eventually had to settle into my own pace. I rode the Cervelo with a disc wheel, which may not have been my best choice. I love the bike, but it's not the best geometry for climbing.....and there was plenty of that in this race.
The turn around for the bike leg is a pretty steep uphill grind to Magnolia Park. (I'm guessing somewhere in the 9-10% range) Complicating the descent after the turnaround, is a fast right hand sweeper at the bottom of the hill. I didn't have my computer on, but I imagine I was hitting high 30's coming down. I tried to maintain as much speed around the sweeper as possible.....unfortunately half the road had been re-paved. I managed to run wide, and catch both wheels on a 2 inch rise of new/old pavement. Needless to say this caused some issues at that speed. I managed to ride it out without touching the brakes, (remember, this is a race...of course crashing would have really slowed me down) however, I did end up over correcting and ended up riding off road for awhile....still no brakes mind you, that would be crazy. I guess my limited mountain biking time is paying off after all.
After returning my heart rate to something below 200 bmp, I tried to put the hammer down. I kept a solid pace on the way back in, no thanks to the corner guy who gave me no heads up on the traffic situation. ("go ahead, pull out onto the highway...I'm sure it's clear"....dude, that's why you're there) I had a good tailwind for some of the ride back in, and I was making good time. I rolled into transition, but Karl was nowhere to be seen. He's really stepped it up this year, both on the runs, and the bike. The longer the bike leg is, the better he does. Again, no splits, but I think I was pushing 22mph avg.
My second run had me trying to chase down Karl, but to no avail. I haven't been doing a lot of brick work, and I'm really paying for it this year. I must have been passed by a half dozen people....thankfully most of them appeared to be high school cross country runners, so that made me feel a little better....but not much. I was really smoked, and the heat was really taking it out of me. I managed to roll in with an overall time of 1:44:52. Good enough for 13th overall, and 2nd in my age group. Karl had a fantastic race and finished in 1:41:07. He was 9th overall, and 2nd in his age group as well. We went home with our super fantastic "Certificates of Achievement." Yeah, that's right, who needs medals when you can have a COA. I bet no one in Beijing will get a COA....Gold, Silver, Bronze, yes, but a piece of semi-official looking paper that you have to write your own name on....I think not.
Jennifer didn't make the race this year. I may have "accidentally" talked her into doing a women's only mountain bike clinic at the Blackhawk Ski Area. Mountain biking is not Jennifer's favorite pastime, but she gave it a try, and give her all the credit in the world for going. I'll leave the details for her to post later....but I'll warn you up front, there might be a lot of profanity....not to mention a compilation of derogatory comments... possibly directed towards me. I'm not sayin' I don't deserve it....but still....
Here's a few pic's courtesy of Karl, Becky, and Katrina:
Getting things set up in transition
Neck and neck in transition...as usual
Karl accepting yet another COA from the Academy
My very own COA....I'm so overcome with emotion
Karl and I display our COA's, while Katrina contemplates being a tank driver
Here's the link to the race site.
This is definitely one of the tougher duathlons we compete in, due to the distance....and the hills. The course is 3.1 mi/20 mile/3.1 mi, certainly longer runs than we're used to doing. The weather was pretty warm and muggy, but we were ready to give it a 100%....as usual.
The first run started out pretty quick. Karl and I stuck together for most of the 3.1 miles, with him putting a slight gap on me in the last 1/4 mile or so. Again, no splits, but as I recall we were in around 21 minutes. We were neck and neck heading out of transition, but Karl ramped it up on the bike. I tried to stay with him, but eventually had to settle into my own pace. I rode the Cervelo with a disc wheel, which may not have been my best choice. I love the bike, but it's not the best geometry for climbing.....and there was plenty of that in this race.
The turn around for the bike leg is a pretty steep uphill grind to Magnolia Park. (I'm guessing somewhere in the 9-10% range) Complicating the descent after the turnaround, is a fast right hand sweeper at the bottom of the hill. I didn't have my computer on, but I imagine I was hitting high 30's coming down. I tried to maintain as much speed around the sweeper as possible.....unfortunately half the road had been re-paved. I managed to run wide, and catch both wheels on a 2 inch rise of new/old pavement. Needless to say this caused some issues at that speed. I managed to ride it out without touching the brakes, (remember, this is a race...of course crashing would have really slowed me down) however, I did end up over correcting and ended up riding off road for awhile....still no brakes mind you, that would be crazy. I guess my limited mountain biking time is paying off after all.
After returning my heart rate to something below 200 bmp, I tried to put the hammer down. I kept a solid pace on the way back in, no thanks to the corner guy who gave me no heads up on the traffic situation. ("go ahead, pull out onto the highway...I'm sure it's clear"....dude, that's why you're there) I had a good tailwind for some of the ride back in, and I was making good time. I rolled into transition, but Karl was nowhere to be seen. He's really stepped it up this year, both on the runs, and the bike. The longer the bike leg is, the better he does. Again, no splits, but I think I was pushing 22mph avg.
My second run had me trying to chase down Karl, but to no avail. I haven't been doing a lot of brick work, and I'm really paying for it this year. I must have been passed by a half dozen people....thankfully most of them appeared to be high school cross country runners, so that made me feel a little better....but not much. I was really smoked, and the heat was really taking it out of me. I managed to roll in with an overall time of 1:44:52. Good enough for 13th overall, and 2nd in my age group. Karl had a fantastic race and finished in 1:41:07. He was 9th overall, and 2nd in his age group as well. We went home with our super fantastic "Certificates of Achievement." Yeah, that's right, who needs medals when you can have a COA. I bet no one in Beijing will get a COA....Gold, Silver, Bronze, yes, but a piece of semi-official looking paper that you have to write your own name on....I think not.
Jennifer didn't make the race this year. I may have "accidentally" talked her into doing a women's only mountain bike clinic at the Blackhawk Ski Area. Mountain biking is not Jennifer's favorite pastime, but she gave it a try, and give her all the credit in the world for going. I'll leave the details for her to post later....but I'll warn you up front, there might be a lot of profanity....not to mention a compilation of derogatory comments... possibly directed towards me. I'm not sayin' I don't deserve it....but still....
Here's a few pic's courtesy of Karl, Becky, and Katrina:
Getting things set up in transition
Neck and neck in transition...as usual
Karl accepting yet another COA from the Academy
My very own COA....I'm so overcome with emotion
Karl and I display our COA's, while Katrina contemplates being a tank driver
Here's the link to the race site.
Albany Duathlon
Alright, here's a long overdue race report. I figure better late than never....
Jennifer, Jennifer's parents, Karl, and myself made the trip to Albany on May 24th.
This is a really small local du. The first time for all of us, but it was a good course and well organized. Jennifer's parents were good sports about coming along. I can't imagine watching a bunch of crazies run and bike being on their top 10 list, but we were glad they came along.
The weather was nearly perfect, maybe a little warm, but not much wind. The course was 2/15/2. The first run included a long downhill....unfortunately, it also included the uphill on the way back. Karl and I ran together, he led on the way out, and I took over on the way back. We also had some help from local speedster Tara Sheetz. (and she was racing with an injury...lucky for us, or she would have left us in the dust) I don't recall the exact times, and we didn't get splits, but it had to be around 13 minutes.
Karl and I were out of transition within a few seconds of each other. The bike course included a short out and back, with the bulk of it on a two loop section with a few rollers. I stuck with Karl for awhile, but he eventually pulled away from me. Tara Sheetz caught Karl and the race was on between them. I think Tara eventually pulled a small gap on him, but they both had great times. (I'm guessing somewhere in the 40 minute range...around 23mph avg.) I rolled in 30 seconds or so later. I had a pretty quick transition to the second run. I was slowly gaining on Karl, but just couldn't close it down. Tara was flying and had at least a minute plus on both of us. Karl sprinted in for an overall time of 1:07:41 for 1st in his division, and 5th overall. I was right behind him at 1:07:52 for 2nd in my division, and 6th overall. Tara Sheetz came in at 1:05:45....crazy fast, and 4th overall.
Jennifer had a great race as well. She's not very confident about her runs, but her bike is always fast. I'm not 100% sure of her splits, but she was fast enough to take 1st place in her division, and 2nd fastest women overall. She finished with a time of 1:24:49 and 19th overall. (including the men)
Overall a really fun race that I'd do again in a heartbeat. Very well organized and super friendly people. Good times.
I'll post some pic's when I can find them......
Jennifer, Jennifer's parents, Karl, and myself made the trip to Albany on May 24th.
This is a really small local du. The first time for all of us, but it was a good course and well organized. Jennifer's parents were good sports about coming along. I can't imagine watching a bunch of crazies run and bike being on their top 10 list, but we were glad they came along.
The weather was nearly perfect, maybe a little warm, but not much wind. The course was 2/15/2. The first run included a long downhill....unfortunately, it also included the uphill on the way back. Karl and I ran together, he led on the way out, and I took over on the way back. We also had some help from local speedster Tara Sheetz. (and she was racing with an injury...lucky for us, or she would have left us in the dust) I don't recall the exact times, and we didn't get splits, but it had to be around 13 minutes.
Karl and I were out of transition within a few seconds of each other. The bike course included a short out and back, with the bulk of it on a two loop section with a few rollers. I stuck with Karl for awhile, but he eventually pulled away from me. Tara Sheetz caught Karl and the race was on between them. I think Tara eventually pulled a small gap on him, but they both had great times. (I'm guessing somewhere in the 40 minute range...around 23mph avg.) I rolled in 30 seconds or so later. I had a pretty quick transition to the second run. I was slowly gaining on Karl, but just couldn't close it down. Tara was flying and had at least a minute plus on both of us. Karl sprinted in for an overall time of 1:07:41 for 1st in his division, and 5th overall. I was right behind him at 1:07:52 for 2nd in my division, and 6th overall. Tara Sheetz came in at 1:05:45....crazy fast, and 4th overall.
Jennifer had a great race as well. She's not very confident about her runs, but her bike is always fast. I'm not 100% sure of her splits, but she was fast enough to take 1st place in her division, and 2nd fastest women overall. She finished with a time of 1:24:49 and 19th overall. (including the men)
Overall a really fun race that I'd do again in a heartbeat. Very well organized and super friendly people. Good times.
I'll post some pic's when I can find them......
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Beloit Duathlon
I figure I'd better catch up on some posts.....before I forget everything.
Myself, Jennifer, Chris, and Karl made the short trip to Beloit for the "Beloit Biathlon." (no ski's or rifles) I wasn't expecting much, since I'd strained my calf muscle a few days before. Normally I can just run through that sort of thing, but this was really causing a problem.
Karl and I were in the "Elite" heat. Not because we're elite mind you....but it does make it easier than picking your way around people on hybrids....with baskets....and flowers. Chris and Jennifer started in the 3rd wave, and as it turns out, Chris had no problem getting around the people on the hybrid bikes.... with the baskets.
No split times this year, and I don't remember everyone's times, so I'm just going to post the finish times. (and besides, I have like 3 more posts to catch up on all the racing.)
Jennifer had a good race and ended up 4th in her age group. The women's overall winner came out of Jennifer's AG, so she moved up a spot for 3rd. She's on a roll this year for medaling in every race. I'm still waiting to see how she does when she actually starts training. Finish Time: 1:09:13 (10th fastest woman overall)
Chris should probably take up duathlons....as long as he stays out of my age group. Since we didn't have splits, it's tough to say, but I'm guessing Chris had one of the fastest bike times at the race. (somewhere in the 24mph range?)Combine that with two pretty good runs, and he ended up with a finish time of: 57:47 (7th in a tough age group, and 13th overall) Throw in some off-road sections, and he'd be winning these things.
Karl had a strong race as usual. He continues to train like a mad man, and it's really paying off this year. I finished just ahead of him on the first run, but after that, he took the lead and kept it. I tried to keep him in sight on the bike, but as usual, he slowly pulled away from me. He's been working on his run off the bike, and it seems to be doing the trick. I tried to close it down, but just didn't have the juice. Karl came in with a finish time of: 56:26 (4th in the 30-39 age group, and 7th fastest overall.) Awesome job....now stay the hell out of the 40-49 AG!
Like I mentioned earlier, I wasn't expecting much at this race. Surprisingly things went better than anticipated. My calf loosened up nicely on the first run, and I felt decent on the bike. My second run wasn't anything to write home about, but I haven't been hitting the bricks like I should be. Overall a pleasant surprise with a finish time of: 58:05 (4th in my age group, and 14th overall) Turns out I missed 3rd in my AG by 38 seconds....bummer, but that's racing.
Here's a few pic's....thanks to Karl
Jennifer heading to the finish.
(actually 1:09:13 because of third wave start)
The only one of us to medal at Beloit!
Jennifer hanging out with one her many fans.
Chris showing us how it's done in his first duathlon.
Chris still has enough energy to lift his thumb.
Myself, Jennifer, Chris, and Karl made the short trip to Beloit for the "Beloit Biathlon." (no ski's or rifles) I wasn't expecting much, since I'd strained my calf muscle a few days before. Normally I can just run through that sort of thing, but this was really causing a problem.
Karl and I were in the "Elite" heat. Not because we're elite mind you....but it does make it easier than picking your way around people on hybrids....with baskets....and flowers. Chris and Jennifer started in the 3rd wave, and as it turns out, Chris had no problem getting around the people on the hybrid bikes.... with the baskets.
No split times this year, and I don't remember everyone's times, so I'm just going to post the finish times. (and besides, I have like 3 more posts to catch up on all the racing.)
Jennifer had a good race and ended up 4th in her age group. The women's overall winner came out of Jennifer's AG, so she moved up a spot for 3rd. She's on a roll this year for medaling in every race. I'm still waiting to see how she does when she actually starts training. Finish Time: 1:09:13 (10th fastest woman overall)
Chris should probably take up duathlons....as long as he stays out of my age group. Since we didn't have splits, it's tough to say, but I'm guessing Chris had one of the fastest bike times at the race. (somewhere in the 24mph range?)Combine that with two pretty good runs, and he ended up with a finish time of: 57:47 (7th in a tough age group, and 13th overall) Throw in some off-road sections, and he'd be winning these things.
Karl had a strong race as usual. He continues to train like a mad man, and it's really paying off this year. I finished just ahead of him on the first run, but after that, he took the lead and kept it. I tried to keep him in sight on the bike, but as usual, he slowly pulled away from me. He's been working on his run off the bike, and it seems to be doing the trick. I tried to close it down, but just didn't have the juice. Karl came in with a finish time of: 56:26 (4th in the 30-39 age group, and 7th fastest overall.) Awesome job....now stay the hell out of the 40-49 AG!
Like I mentioned earlier, I wasn't expecting much at this race. Surprisingly things went better than anticipated. My calf loosened up nicely on the first run, and I felt decent on the bike. My second run wasn't anything to write home about, but I haven't been hitting the bricks like I should be. Overall a pleasant surprise with a finish time of: 58:05 (4th in my age group, and 14th overall) Turns out I missed 3rd in my AG by 38 seconds....bummer, but that's racing.
Here's a few pic's....thanks to Karl
Jennifer heading to the finish.
(actually 1:09:13 because of third wave start)
The only one of us to medal at Beloit!
Jennifer hanging out with one her many fans.
Chris showing us how it's done in his first duathlon.
Chris still has enough energy to lift his thumb.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
