October 10, 2009
PPTC Century route
I rode the Potomac Pedalers Tour Club 100 mile ride in Berryville. Unlike the Livestong ride and the Civil War Century, this course was pretty flat, with some gentle rollers on the second half. Also unlike those ride, I didn't suffer, really. It was chilly for the early morning start, but warmed up and turned into a beautiful day. I fell in with four guys from the Western Maryland Wheelmen, who were friendly and kept the pace challenging -- thanks to them for letting me tag along for five hours. I felt like it was the strongest long ride I've done so far.
September Celebrations
Mary Ellen and I had birthdays, and a wedding anniversary, in September. So congratulations to us. These weren't the big birthdays, though. Those are next year, when there will be a kickin party.
September 19, 2009
Civil War Century Route
I rode in the Civil War Century on September 12. The 100 mile route goes through four Civil War battlefields, and has some good size hills. It was cloudy, cool and wet, so I opted to bail out of the route before Gettysburg and make it a 75 mile day. Like the Livestrong Challenge ride in Philly, I really liked climbing and descending. I'm going to try to make hills a regular part of my weekend rides.
September 08, 2009
September 03, 2009
Livestrong Austin
I raised $850 for the LIVESTRONG Challenge in Philly -- and I had a great weekend with Team Fatty and the LIVESTRONG folks in August. Now, I'm at it again. Although it's unlikely that I will go to Austin for the ride (there is a small chance) I am still raising money for Team Fat Cyclist. I think it is a good cause, and Team Fatty is a great way to support it.
For anyone who would like to help those fighting cancer, you can donate here.
August 31, 2009
2009 Livestrong Challenge Philly pictures
See the ride report for details. Remember to close the pop-up picture before you click on the next thumbnail.
Pre-dinner meet and greet. With cake.
Mary Ellen helps Elden (AKA Fatty) with cake serving duty.
We had a long wait in the early morning at the holding area. Needless to say, I was short a few cups of coffee.
At the Landis Store rest stop. I'm happy to be half way done and over the biggest climb.
Rolling into the rest area around mile 80. Kevin was hanging out of the car window shooting as Mary Ellen practiced alternate side of the street driving.
Elden waited at the finish to greet Team Fatty riders as we rolled in -- a very nice gesture.
Kevin sneaks out from behind the camera
See Kevkavpix "Team Fatty" gallery for many more pictures.
August 28, 2009
Livestrong Challenge 2009 Philly Ride Report
or How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Hills
It's customary to write a report after a ride or race -- here's mine
(update: pictures added)
The Goal Posts: How I Kept Score
I had 4 goals for the Livestrong Challenge:
1) Raise the money
2) Finish the 100 mile course
3) Stay upright
4) 5:45 riding time