Red River Racing

Barn Cross In Moving Pictures

2012-02-02T09:49:00.000-06:00

If for some reason you missed it, like if you live under a rock or in a barn, here's a video recap of Barn Cross. For all you haters, Barn Cross proves that all is right in the world.

Barn Cross 2012 from dnb on Vimeo.

Good job on the vid, D.

Barn Cross Update

2012-01-28T23:03:00.003-06:00

Expect temps of around zero inside the barn, a sandy surface, a tight twisty course with many interesting features (such as the beloved whoops), and good times. See all y'all tomorrow.

Barn Cross

2012-01-19T15:51:00.000-06:00

A hurt locker kind of race, but this one will smell sort of different. Guaranteed fun for just $10.

He Said/She Said

2012-01-05T11:47:00.000-06:00

Top Ten of 2011

2012-01-04T12:17:00.021-06:00

After reading The Cycle Chic's top ten list, I was inspired to write my own. So, with apologies to Andrea for ripping off her format, here it is.

Top Ride
November trip to Coach Bill's cottage in Pinawa. Riding trails in November after a busy cx season was a gas. And Bill made pancakes.

Top Bike
My Crosscheck. I was unfaithful during cross season, seduced by one lighter, sexier and cooler who promised Truelove. But like many such flings, it didn't work out so well. So I am back with my first love. With a new lighter fork and a brake upgrade, it is sweeter than ever. And I will never be unfaithful again.

Top Badass
Dallas Sigurdur. No explanation required.

Top Douchebag
Pretty much everyone who drives an Escalade. I ride all the time and thankfully dangerous episodes with vehicles are a rarity for me. But almost every time there was an incident this year, it was with some dumb ass driving an Escalade. If you own one and aren't a douchebag, maybe you should think about getting a different showy pretentious car.

Top Local Race
In a year of great events this took some thought, but I have to pick the New Year's Eve cx throwdown. I didn't have to do any work to make it happen, riding for fun with friends was a great way to close out a great year, and I beat The Awesome One. That won't likely ever happen again.

Top Playlist
Wintersong by Sarah McLachlan. It is my favorite Christmas album. And she's dreamy; She can skate away on my river anytime.

Top Gym
My basement. It's a bit grubby, my old steel plates are rusty, I have black plumbing pipe in the floor joists for pullups and a home made wooden squat rack. Very old school Rocky. And you can't beat the commute.

Top Male Rider
Me. I had my own summer and I won the Butter Belt. Duh. Philippe Gilbert was a distant second.

Top Female Rider
Katie Compton. Apparently she's been winning a lot. And cross is boss.

Top Bike Shop
There are only two shops on my short list for this: Bikes and Beyond and Olympia on Portage. I like both stores; Good staff, good selection and they both are comfortable places for me to hang out and visit. So it's a tie.

Special Bonus Category, Best Group Ride
Everybody knows there is only one place to be Tuesday nights. A TNR is always the highlight of my week.

A Sort of Resolution

2012-01-04T09:45:00.000-06:00

2011 has come to an end with me sitting on the couch, watching the Jets, and stuffing my face with all things that go with sports TV. My resolution—get fat as a means to get skinny.

Getting this project off the ground has taken a bit longer than I had hoped, but things are coming together. Using parts that I have laying around and previously forgotten about, the build is nothing special, but should be reliable. One more hour or so to complete the build and "The Joker" will be ready to roll.

Thanks to Larry for hooking me up with his first-generation Purple Pearl Sizzurple Pugsley FF and wheels. It's the shzzit.

In Search of Singletrack

2011-12-05T20:22:00.007-06:00

I was bored the other night and decided to search for youtube videos on mountain biking in Minnesota. I guess I was curious to see if there were any quality ride destinations that might be close by. I was pleasantly surprised to find that a brand new, purpose built 22mile/35km trail system recently opened near Crosby, MN, which is a mere 500km away. Yeah, 500km isn't exactly close, but when you consider that I used to drive that distance in order to race at Thunder Hill in Swan River back in the day, it starts to feel like a possible long weekend destination. Judging by this video, the trail designers value flow in their singletrack.

More...

This video gives a taste of some of the more technical trail sections...

Click for the official scoop on the 800 acre mountain biking playground.

I'm all for good riding that doesn't require driving all the way to the Maah Dah Hey, or the Rockies. So, who's up for a July long weekend road trip?

The Red Birch Fort Club Remembrance Day Ride

2011-11-14T11:03:00.001-06:00

Thanks to Coach Bill for hosting a small group from the coolest local independent cycling clubs at his cottage in Pinawa. The Thursday evening night ride and the Friday morning scoot out the the Old Pinawa Dam were a fine way to get acquainted with the Pinawa area's fun trail network. Where the prairies meet the Shield means there's a bit of this and a bit of that, and lots of fun times. Throw in a some John Candy and beer for good measure and you have what will hopefully be repeated sometime—maybe sooner than later with Pugsleys and xc skis?

Halloween Race Videos

2011-11-03T09:27:00.001-05:00

For this past weekend's Halloween cross race, Tom K of The Training Coop, set up numerous GoPro cameras at strategic points around the course. Edits have been made so you can now view many hours of footage in a number of smaller clips—just click here to enjoy.

Thanks, Tom.

Halloween at the CAMP Report

2011-11-01T10:54:00.002-05:00

As an organizer, you've got to love it when it all comes together. The weather cooperated to give us a frightfully pleasant day for racing, and the new venue at Camp Assiniboia provided some fun-riding and entertaining elements for a course that had a bit of everything.

All in, we had 93 racers of all ages come out to enjoy the day—the majority getting into the spirit of the day, donning full costume. There were certainly a few memorable get-ups, some for all the wrong reasons. The added presence of the mythical beer hand-up also added to the experience, for those lucky enough to partake.

Putting together a cyclocross course is always a labour of love, so we need to thank all those who stepped up to lend a hand; we couldn't do it without you. Special thanks go out to Chris, Jonny G, Terry, Coach Bill, Lyle, Major Tom, and Monica for the hours invested. Another special nod goes to Anita, Gary, and Colin the Commissaire who's been a key component to the cross season—one we couldn't do without. One final note of appreciation goes to Olympia Cycle on Portage for their help with prizing.

The race results have been tabulated and can be found here.

Photos are being dumped all around the web. Here are a few links, in case you've missed a few of them:
KK
Mark Reimer
Stefan Isfeld
Woodcock pics video
Karlee Gendron
ABES

Thanks again to all who made it out and for making it the best Halloween cyclocross race ever!

-----------------------------------------------------------

PS—Two last pieces of business...

First, the people listed below should seek out their own podium moment with Brad, the handsome devil of SOB fame shown here, at this upcoming weekend's Provincial Cyclocross Championships in St. Malo. (list updated/corrected at 20:47)

David Hamm
Greg Mickelson
Ryan Dumont
Phil Tripp
Dave Bell
Melanie Leclerc
John Heim

Second, if this is your glove and you want it back, offer Brad a beer in trade at the Provincial Cyclocross Championships in St. Malo.

Halloween at the Camp

2011-10-29T15:39:00.001-05:00

The course is coming together nicely. See you tomorrow.

Halloween at the CAMP

2011-10-25T11:30:00.002-05:00

For more details of Sunday's Halloween race, please check out the link found in the right-hand margin...yep, that's it. The pumpkin over there → ...click on it.

Again, please note there's a change in venue from what's been on the MCA calendar. No longer will the race be at Harbour View; it will take place at Camp Assiniboia (hence the variation in the race name—we're a creative bunch).

Halloween...

2011-10-24T16:38:00.000-05:00

at the ~~Harbour~~ CAMP.

It's back again this year. Same good times, but at a new and improved venue, namely Camp Assiniboia. With the MBCX Cup series behind us, it appropriate to have a fun race before putting in all on the line in the season finale, the CX Provincials.

Favourite items from last year's Halloween race will make their return, such as the whoop-dees and pumpkin barriers. If you have what it takes, we're looking willing individuals to be human rolling barriers...thus far no one has stepped up.

If rolling around on the ground with guys like big Dave P. running at you isn't your thing, but you still want to give us a hand, the RRR crew and friends will be setting up the course at Camp Assiniboia on Saturday the 29th. Your help is appreciated. You can let us know if you're interested by shooting us an email.

More race details and registration/waiver forms will be posted shortly (we promise)!

MennoCross B Race Photo Dump

2011-10-04T14:22:00.002-05:00

Here are some photos of the B Race I took with my Android...better later than never. Just like the way I race.

MennoCross 2011 Just Hours Away

2011-09-30T11:03:00.000-05:00

Our good friends over at the FGBC are putting on what's likely to be the cross season's biggest race, after DarkCross of course.

I spent a little time at the CMU campus yesterday to help with the set up and I can report that this year's course will be fast. Expect lots of off-camber flow and fast straights. Unlike 2010's MennoCross, there will be no mud unless the sky opens with a Biblical magnitude. There is lots of goose shit, though. Which is geese. Hopefully the early racers will clear the course so I can keep my bike and teeth clean.

Most of what you need to know is in the poster below, but more information and the registration/waiver can be found at mennocross.ca and at the race's MCA page.

Brad's New TrueLove

2011-09-27T14:23:00.001-05:00

Brad has a light, new goose shit-coloured toy. He'll use it to teach the youngsters a lesson on Saturday at MennoCross. Vive le SOB!

The Barrier Cyclocross Race

2011-09-21T14:55:00.000-05:00

Last year's race at Labarrier Park proved the venue to be a keeper as it provided a good mix of speed and technical twists. This year's race will undoubtedly be more of the same, possibly even better—ie. one not to be missed.

More than the other races on the calendar, this race calls for the community's collective effort for registration, course set-up, and course tear down. If you can volunteer some time, please send an email here, sooner the better.

Other useful links: race Bible, registration, waiver.

Brad at last season's Labarrier race, pre-facial hair and SOB fame

Got a Rear Wheel?

2011-09-20T21:32:00.003-05:00

Hey, anyone got a rear road wheel for sale?

Apparently the rear rim of my bike didn't like the pounding it took on the hard landings on the approach to the grandstand at Darkcross.

email at theduestersATyahoo.ca

24 Hours AD (After DarkCross)

2011-09-18T22:32:00.000-05:00

DarkCross...that was fun, no? I'm still feeling the buzz from the energy and excitement that all the riders and spectators brought to the event. What a night!

As part of the DarkCross organizing team, I'd like to say thanks for turning our efforts into a raging success. Without your support we would not have set a record-high number of cyclocross racers at one race. And we certainly couldn't have done it without the backing of our sponsors as an event such as this takes more than a little spit and elbow grease. Please give them your consideration the next time you have a project or require services--you can find them listed at darkcross.ca. And lastly, to the long list of volunteers including our commissaires, above and beyond only begins to describe your efforts. A huge thanks to you.

Photos are starting to pop up here and there. Here are a few links to get you started:

Results are up on the DarkCross site.

Is It Me, Or Is It Getting Darker Out There?

2011-09-15T12:11:00.000-05:00

Two words: DarkCross. OK...I guess that's just one word, but it's coming in just two days.

We've been working hard behind the scenes with the FGBC and the Winnipeg Cycle Chick to plan something never seen before in these parts. Even though we know what's going down, we're eagerly anticipating the event like a bunch of sheltered grade 8 boys going to watch Hot Dog... The Movie at a friend's place when the parents are away.

What you need to know:

it's at the Red River Coop Speedway, about 8 kms south of the city on Hwy 75.
there's a beer garden & concessions
live music with the Farrell Brothers (What? Pearl Jam's in town? Bah...)
$1,500 in cash prizes
it will be dark, but you won't need bike lights
there's a beer garden

There will also be a limited number of t-shirts and cowbells available for sale— first come, first served. $10 to make some noise; $20 to look good doing it.

Registration and waiver—I did you the favour of combining both forms into one quick-and-easy download. You can thank me later. I'll be drinking Rickard's Dark, but will gratefully accept whatever you're drinking.

If you don't want to buy me a beer, that's cool. Just be there—this won't be one to miss as it carries the SOB's fastidious stamp of approval! Missing it would be geese.

Looking Back—St. Alolphe MudFest

2011-09-12T14:25:00.001-05:00

One race down...whew, that was hard.

I have to admit I wasn’t sure if I wanted to go to MudFest when I woke up on Sunday morning. Apart from riding with the Wolseley Wheels Kids of Mud club early in the season, there’s been little else in the way of 2-wheeled activity in my life this summer, and the thought of 60 minutes at “full-intensity” in summer-like heat wasn’t something I was feeling too keen on. No, I haven’t been doing my homework which meant I was going to suffer, and suffer bad. But there’s something freeing about having very little in the way of expectations. Convinced that I’d somehow have fun if I could keep my waffle breakfast down, I dragged my sorry butt and my family out to St. Adolphe.

Things pretty much played out as I had anticipated. I finished near the back, but after trading positions with a couple racers, who I was pleasantly surprised to be with, I can’t complain too much. And I didn't feel as crappy as I thought I would. The good news is there's only room for improvement, and given the fun had, I’ve found a little some motivation to squeeze in a bit more saddle time to hopefully improve my lot in the races to come.

Brad pretty much proved the Summer of Brad is going to drag on well into cross season. Despite a wheel change, he spent a significant part of the race near the front, giving the B (cat 3/4) field this view:

photo courtesy of Stefan Isfeld

Duece also represented in the cat 3/4 race in what was, I believe, his second cross race and his first on his new cross bike. I’m looking forward to seeing him turn it up to 11 at DarkCross on Saturday. He said he wouldn’t miss it.

photo courtesy of TOS

You shouldn’t miss DarkCross, either. It’s going to be a high-octane party everyone will be talking about for weeks to come, and you’ll feel silly for missing it. Beer gardens, live entertainment, and racing at night at a speedway? Wow…and don’t forget $1,500 in prizing to be shared among the top 10 finishes in the A (cat 1/2), B (cat 3/4) and C (cat 4/5) races! Be sure to check out all the details at darkcross.ca.

Garage Sale

2011-09-03T16:07:00.004-05:00

I have a few things lying around that I don't need. Prices negotiable. Email for pics (pandjdoerksenATgmail.com) Items are used.

Powertap Bontrager rear wheel, wired, comes with everything (computer, wiring, etc) $500
Redline Monocog frame 26" size medium, v-brakes only, cromo $50 (This is the earlier version where Redline used 110mm rear spacing rather than the standard 135mm)
Kinesis carbon road fork threaded SOLD
Kinesis aluminium road fork threaded $20
27" wheelset, newer tires, new singlespeed freewheel SOLD

MTB Provincials

2011-08-25T20:27:00.005-05:00

Mountain bike provincials are on! The race venue is the Brandon Hills, some of the best trails in Manitoba. Details here.

A Day in the Life of Brad

2011-08-18T15:44:00.005-05:00

A photo retrospective of how the SOB2011 Crown Jewel was won:

Belted

2011-08-15T19:45:00.004-05:00

A picture is worth 10,000 words. Photo courtesy of Johnny S.

Rocky Mountain Vertex for Sale

2011-08-08T19:51:00.006-05:00

DarkCross has inspired me to buy a Cross bike and race. Now all I need is to scrounge up some money...

For Sale: SOLD

Classic Rocky Mountain Vertex - $299

Riding with the Mennonites in Tights

2011-07-30T21:40:00.004-05:00

Today I took part in my 3rd Saturday morning ride with the local Mennonites in Tights club. As usual, it was a great time. Great company, and beautiful sunshine with a huge tailwind to finish off the ride. A great finish to what started out as a tough slog... Here's what not to do when the group your riding with is getting ready to roll.

Prior to leaving the water tower meeting point, one of the guys snapped a seat binder and so off he and Pat went to Body Driven to see if there was a spare. The rest of the riders then decided to meet them at the shop and so I thought I had a minute or two to spare to get something from home, which was only 2 houses off the route. Well, I was wrong. Upon reaching the deserted bike shop I realized that the group had gone on and as I gazed down Main Street I couldn't see them at all. Uh oh, panic started to set in as I realized that a solo rider heading into a strong West wind didn't stand much of a chance of catching a group of 11 riders. I was right. I did my own personal time trial and managed to get them within eyesight about 1km up the road, but that's how the gap stayed, them comfortably drafting into the breeze, me dangling agonizingly out of earshot. My chase lasted a full 20k's from Steinbach to a quonset hut in Kleefeld where they stopped to assess the weather. I've never been very good at taking hints, I guess they'll have to be a little less subtle about letting me know they don't want me on their rides... ;-)

The tough start paid off with the awesome feeling of riding with the wind on the way home and getting in a pace line that managed to maintain 48km/hr and at one point was doing 53km/hr. That is a great feeling. And so ended another great ride with the MIT boys.

A Hero Among Us

2011-07-27T13:10:00.003-05:00

No, it's not Brad, our resident SOB. At least not this week. Way to go, Arvid. Congrats on the recognition for your amazing feat.

taken from the Winnipeg Free Press online

Classifieds

2011-07-25T20:31:00.010-05:00

I have a few items for sale. All prices negotiable.

Giant TCR frame, size medium large, clearcoated aluminum with silver carbon fork, includes frame, fork and headset. $325

26" front wheel, rim brake, Sun CR18 rim on LX hub, $30

26" front wheel, rim brake, Rolf Dolomite, $50

Big Kahuna 26" tire with sheet metal screw studs, $25

More pictures available.

Email me at bradleeennzAThotmailDOTcom

Showdown at St. Nob

2011-07-22T15:10:00.001-05:00

Good times riding something a little different. Short track xc racing for the rusty spike. And with a dog fest to boot! Good times guaranteed by Tinker Kevin.

SMASH. Seriously.

2011-07-19T09:57:00.002-05:00

I ♥ Thor!

24 Hours of Falcon Ridge

2011-07-07T09:00:00.005-05:00

It's enduro month in Manitoba. After suffering through the Where's the Beach, you'll be ready for the 24 Hours of Falcon Ridge.

You don't have to race for the full 24 hours. You can ride a bit, have fun...ride a bit, have more fun... And this year we've added an 8 hour event, so now you can rider harder and have more fun...or just have more fun. Solo and team categories mean you can tailor the experience to your liking.

Online pre-registration is open and is just $60. Walk-up registration is an option, too, but you'll have to pay $75. Either way, your entry fee covers your camping, race license and insurance, and tasty baked goods courtesy of Falcon Lake Bakery Bistro (yum).

You can find all the details at the race website— 24hoursoffalconridge.com. We'll also be posting a few more details about the course in a few days. We plan for this year's course to be less technical (ie. more fun).

Looking SMASHing in Rainbow Stripes and Yellow

2011-07-05T13:53:00.002-05:00

Wow! Thor dangles with the climbers to hang on to the yellow. Still think Thor is geese, oh Dark Lord? Should have gone with my heart and picked him in the pool. Still, it's super sweet.

Thor fuels up to SMASH the final climb to the finish

Best Birthday E-V-E-R!

2011-06-28T16:44:00.006-05:00

I have the best wife. THE BEST!

Decisions, decisions...I'm overwhelmed. It's nice to be me.

Go Arvid!

2011-06-22T10:39:00.004-05:00

This dude is awesome. Despite it being the Summer of Brad, July will certainly be the Month of Arvid. In eight days he sets out to set a new record for riding across Canada, all for a good cause. You can follow along and track his progress at grandpascan.com.

Good luck, Arvid. May the chicken be tasty and the wind on your back.

Time to Get Registered

2011-06-21T10:32:00.003-05:00

Online registration for the 24 Hours of Falcon Ridge is open. click

Michelle, Artur, and the (ahem) Bighorn

2011-06-17T09:11:00.006-05:00

In less than 2 hours Michelle and Artur embark on a 100 mile back country ultra marathon, the Bighorn 100 in Dayton, WY. Why? Good question. As a cyclist, I don't get the allure of running—why run when you can bike? Anyway, they've been training hard and fighting through injuries to prepare for today.

The Bighorn 100's course description reads like this:

"Although it is a very difficult course, it has been a great success and participants have encouraged its continuation. This race is extremely challenging due to the rugged terrain of the Bighorn Mountains, and has become a favorite among avid trail runners (despite the lame branding). The course, an out-and-back, is at elevations of about 10,000 feet, among fields of wildflowers and breathtaking scenery. The majority of the course is on rugged mountain trails and 4-wheel drive roads sounds more or less like an out-and-back jumble of up and down in what looks like beautiful country."

Sounds to me like this is country that is better traveled on a mountain bike.

Michelle and Artur pulled into Dayton yesterday and almost immediately ran in to Paddy and Naomi at registration. Naomi is also running in the 100 mile event. It's a small world...last summer Michelle and Artur finished the Canadian Death Race with Naomi.

The local area forecast is calling for about mixed sun and cloud with a high of about 24 degrees. Paddy reports on Facebook that it poured during the night, so the trail could be sloppy and I suspect humidity in the canyon could be less favourable.

If you're interested, you can follow along and see Michelle, Artur, and Naomi's split times at the various checkpoints throughout the course by clicking here.

The best part of the Bighorn 100? Finishers get belt buckles. And you know what we think about buckles. They are awesome.

To our friends: good luck, have fun, and be safe.

TTT Results and Photos

2011-06-16T09:37:00.008-05:00

In case you missed it, you can find last night's TTT results here. Thanks to all that showed up and those put in the extra creative effort in their team's entry. Thanks to Mike and Adam for taking on the organizational responsibilities, to the volunteers for their assistance, and to the fearsome commissare duo of Colin and Brad.

Thor SMASH

2011-06-14T14:19:00.006-05:00

As July draws closer, things are starting to look up for Thor SMASH. Nice.

Getting Ready to Time Trial

2011-06-09T11:30:00.000-05:00

In case you missed it, the TTT Race Bible has been added to the race's website. Check it here.

Not sure what you can do to up your chances for the Team category? Here's a hint courtesy of the Original Butter Belt Champion™: make your own time trial helmet. See what you can dream up on your own, or refer to this handy-dandy d-i-y guide.

The combo of cycling sandals and hairy legs on a Pugsley is another good option too.
(man, this shit is gold; I should be selling these ideas)

It's Team Time Trial Time

2011-06-07T17:01:00.000-05:00

I have a week and a day to start training. Awesome.

Details can be found here!

Race Update

2011-06-06T21:20:00.003-05:00

The Challenge is good and truly dead. Even its spirit has given up the ghost. That is if Sunday's race at Falcon was any indication. Racers representing either FGBC or RRR totaled exactly one. Yes, the heady days of the challenge were good times. Who knew they'd be a one-hit wonder?

The race itself was very enjoyable. The course was remarkably dry, as it tended to stay on the high ground. Make no mistake, it was a mountain bike course well suited to those with good bike handling skills. There were some very sweet drops down rock faces and a triple arrow downhill. Unfortunately for me, my chain snapped after the first climb, just as the trail headed into the "Top of the World" section. As I walked back to the chalet I got some much needed links from a volunteer (thanks Jason) and despite my DNF status was able to do two laps for fun.

The prize table was one of the best I've seen in a long time, and with the smallish attendance it meant that every rider went home with something. What was up with the low numbers of racers??? The men's comp had only 3 riders. Are these numbers just a one-off? Hopefully the low turnout was just a blip on the radar and that future races get back to some healthier numbers, and even healthier rivalries.

Long live the challenge.

Huge thanks goes out to those who made the Falcon race a reality.

I'm assuming most of you have seen the pics and vid, but here it is anyway.

The Falcon Lake Cup Race Is On

2011-06-02T13:53:00.006-05:00

Despite claims of the venue being too wet—which it ~~isn't~~ wasn't when I was there last weekend—the Falcon Lake race is indeed on.

Props to Paul B and Dylan H (aka the fast and the furious) for taking the initiative to make sure things get done. If you race on Sunday, be sure to say thanks. Those guys are alright.

All the details, including a course video, can be found here.

The conditions ~~will~~ might be be ~~NOTHING~~ something like this

Update @ 4:29—Post edited due to KB's comment after riding the venue on June 1.

Saturday's Spring Ride

2011-05-30T12:29:00.006-05:00

Photos from the Eagle Head group's ride (except for the bears at Ingolf).

Don't mess with the Original Hipster, or he'll mess with your bike. Seriously.

Friday's Featured Farrah

2011-05-27T09:00:00.000-05:00

Gone Biking. Enjoy your weekend.

Landis, Hamilton, Hincappie..................

2011-05-21T11:02:00.001-05:00

I can't believe you guys aren't all over this. Giving Larry the weekend off?

Friday's Farrah Featured—I Love You

2011-05-20T14:59:00.002-05:00

So beautiful...

Six more days until beer, bikes, and camp fire songs.

I couldn't have sung it any better myself.

Friday's Featured Farrah—Just For Kicks

2011-05-13T22:57:00.003-05:00

Whoa...some serious action here. No doubt done in one take, ie. no re-dos or do-overs. But re-dos are fun.

Thirteen more days until a weekend of re-dos. And speaking of kicks...we will find out what will catapult Johnny Softride through Ingolf this year.

Bike Science

2011-05-13T19:49:00.002-05:00

Can you say Catapult?

2011-05-11T21:08:00.000-05:00

Wow, is this bike a blast from the past, or what? What an abominable design.

Buy it here.

Saturday's Friday's Featured Farrah—The Dating Game

2011-05-07T07:57:00.003-05:00

This one goes deep into the archives. It's the Dating Game...sort of like how the sous-chef viewed last Spring Ride's Friday night bon fire. Only there were no eligible or interested bachelors. Awkward.

We also discover Farrah finds numbers a bit hard, too.

Less that three weeks to go.

postponed...nice.

2011-04-30T11:18:00.002-05:00

Brandon's mtb race has been pushed back one week due to extremely soggy, trail damaging conditions. Now there's no conflict with my son's bday and I can perhaps squeeze it in to my schedule. Nice. Brandon's always a fun place to ride.

Friday's Featured Farrah—The Fountain of Something Something

2011-04-29T20:22:00.007-05:00

Better make sure the kids are in bed before hitting play on this one.

Friday's Featured Farrah is RRR's own countdown to the Spring Ride and this particular clip may make one think of a particular Spring Ride ritual—even though Eppstein (seriously, you really, really don't want to click on that link) looks nothing like Farrah.

Good times, yet still PG. Mostly. Twenty-seven days and counting...

Physics + Cycling

2011-04-27T20:35:00.005-05:00

If you like to crunch numbers as they relate to cycling, then this just might be the site for you.

World First

2011-04-26T18:20:00.002-05:00

Friday's Featured Farrah—At Home on Links and the Kitchen

2011-04-22T22:22:00.001-05:00

Here, thanks to Howard Cosell, we discover how Farrah was a domesticated sex symbol. The times sure have changed. You'll never see today's version of a sex symbol race home to make dinner for her hubby.

Did she say she could hide behind his beard? Maybe things haven't changed so much after all. Brad, RRR's own sex symbol has been hiding behind his beard for quite a while now, but now its taken on a life of its own.

Brad's beard will make its debut at the spring ride in roughly one month.

Can't Race? Might As Well Go For A Smoke

2011-04-18T13:27:00.007-05:00

Sadly, I missed yesterday's official start to the race season in Bruxelles (darn kids). I did, however, get out for a short ride. While others were busting their ass in a race for a jar of gravel, I casually rolled to the Exchange District on a recon ride to scope out a place I may very well wind up on a semi-regular basis—with or without my TNR associates.

There's been a lot of "frites and mayo this" and "frites and mayo that" on local blog scene in recent memory, but this will really whet your whistle. I present to you Smoke's Poutinerie.

Just one look at Smoke's menu and, as Gene Simmons would say, "I forget my name". I'm already giddy with atherosclerosis. I mean, c'mon! Check out the bacon!

Smoke's website says they're opening in April, but another source suggests May is a more current ETA. I will not be getting faster this year.

Just One Word

2011-04-16T09:05:00.004-05:00

EPIC.

Tomorrow will be one of those classic Spring Classics to be talked about for a long time. You can still preregister here until 6:00 PM today.

Friday's Featured Farrah—The Mystery of the Flippy Curls

2011-04-15T14:09:00.001-05:00

This one brings back more childhood memories. My mom had the Schick Speed Styler. Now, I love my mom, but she never had Farrah hair despite using the same shampoo and styling tools—not even close. But she wasn't alone. Apparently other women at the time were mystified by Farrah's flippy curls (your inner voice needs to say flippy curls as Farrah does in the commercial).

Thankfully, the always-inquisitive Phil Donahue wasn't afraid to ask the tough questions and get Farrah to share her secrets. As you'll find out, her hair had natural qualities that few could understand and master as well as Farrah...God-given flippy curls.

So feel better, mom. It turns out the Schick Speed Styler wasn't all that after all, and more accurately have gone by another name two letters shorter.

Forty-one days until the Spring Ride. If you thought last year's ride at Ingolf was wet, you'd better bring your hair dryer this year. Or beard dryer, in Brad's case.

RRR Spring Classic 2.0 Report

2011-04-11T09:28:00.008-05:00

About twenty riders showed up for Brad's second annual gravel grinder throw-down. Environment Canada's forecast looked somewhat grim, calling for rain and wind. Fortunately, the rain never came.

A neutral start to Pritchard Farm Rd. kept things together, but the group began to splinter by the time Bird's Hill Park was breached. Further separation occurred on the short, snow-covered and soggy snowmobile trail exiting BHP at Melrose Rd., and later when the course pointed riders into the brisk NNW wind.

In the end, everyone made their way back to Chez Brad injury-free in time to enjoy a bit of sun as we sat around the fire, roasting smokies and draining the keg.

Thanks, Brad, for the stellar event. You out-did yourself again.

Brad laying down the rules of the race

To the winner go the spoils and bragging rights

With a 19L keg of Little Scrapper IPA, there are no losers

The lead group on Melrose Rd. at the half-way point

After impressively bridging back to the lead group,
JP out-kicked the group of six to claim the victory

good times

Rated RRR checklist

2011-04-09T20:30:00.002-05:00

Course is marked, gravel sections are wet with muddy bits, beer is chilling, firewood is dry, forecast is grim. Perfect.

Friday's Featured Farrah—I Dream of...Farrah?

2011-04-08T23:36:00.004-05:00

I Dream of Jeanie just moved up on my all-time favourite list of TV shows. It's now 1 ahead of Bewitched.

48 days to go until the Spring Ride.

Don't Forget to RSVP for RRR's Spring Classic 2.0

2011-04-06T09:42:00.013-05:00

There's plenty of talk about howepic Sunday's Spring Classic 2.0 will be, but few have actually tendered their intention to be a part of the mix. The après-ride mini-keg and dogfest is a highlight of this event, and as host The Impaler needs to know how many will be there (ie. does he buy gourmet smokies, or the no-name weiners? It depends on the numbers).

I prefer gourmet smokies myself, but I'd rather roast lesser fare while swapping stories with other dirty and tired riders.

PS - Brad's covering the dogs, but not the mini-keg. Bring a few $ to help cover the cost.

Classic Prelude to RRR Spring Classic 2.0

2011-04-03T21:10:00.022-05:00

RRR demonstrated that they are clearly the most Belgian bike club around, as evidenced by the solitary vehicle in the desolate parking lot, on a day with weather befitting Flanders. The 'Niner' took her maiden voyage, as Brad wrestled with her for nearly two hours, calming, taming and eventually submitting her to a future full of Rule V.

Mike, Brad and I set out with KK's blessing, as he was recovering from a work week also full of Rule V. Much scheming was to be done as Brad mulled over the options for next weekend...will there be snowy portages...TBA....will there be long, soft, wet, undulating (not going where you think) gravel roads...ABSOLUTELY...a visit to the Grotto (not Heff's)...more than likely...and will the day end with sports beverages, the likes of which Mr. Alex Keith offered up today....AS ALWAYS!

Many miles where covered and while the legs were burning, the hands and feet, initially cold, eventually, mercifully, were numb. The face was pelted by rain and sleet, making visibility at times impossible and causing me to wonder if Brad's beard protected even his eyes as he seemed unhindered.

Most of all, rides shared with friends, on lonely, empty roads are good for the body and soul.

Today's ride

2011-04-03T09:06:00.002-05:00

I am still planning on heading to the Park for 2:00. The plan is to ride about 45 k's of the course, only the nastiest gravel sections.

Friday's Featured Farrah—Photograph This, Danny Boy

2011-04-01T22:47:00.004-05:00

I actually remember this one from The Partridge Family when I was a kid.

I don't know why I remember that clip. Actually, I'm pretty sure now why I remembered it. Yeah...definitely.

Roubaix Recce: Hors Course

2011-04-01T11:50:00.003-05:00

A week and a day away, right before the SOB's gravel grinder...it's Rapha's Paris-Roubaix preview in all its French, black and white, artsy-fartsy, pretentious enjoyment.

Sunday ride

2011-03-30T17:41:00.003-05:00

If you have the whole day to invest, by all means join the Olympia boys in Bruxelles for their preride. It is worth the drive. If I didn't have my own race to plan I would be there. I have a lesser option for the time challenged. A few of us will be meeting at Chickadee parking area in BHP at 2:00 PM for a recon of some sections of the course for the upcoming RRR Spring Classic. If you can't hold 400 watts for two hours, don't bother showing up...

RRR Spring Classic 2.0

2011-03-28T21:15:00.009-05:00

The official kick off to the Summer of Brad is right around the corner. And that corner is on gravel. The second annual Red River Racing gravel grinder is only a few sleeps away.

April 10th
2:00 PM
80ish kilometers of lonely country roads
My place (email me for the address)

The route will be different than last year but will include a return visit to The Grotto. Dogfest to follow. I will provide dogs, (don't count on veggie wieners), buns and condiments. There will be a mini keg, so bring some cash if you plan to imbibe. Extra lawn chairs would be appreciated.

RSVP by email.

Busted!!

2011-03-26T16:29:00.005-05:00

Apparently, if you drive a pick-up truck with a license plate that says "I HUNT" you are in for action.
It's good to know the boys in blue are doing their job.
Busted for open alcohol in the vehicle- only it was cherry coke posing as beer. They got a call for open liquor and came looking.
What else is there to do on a saturday afternoon. Now it's time to open a real one.

Friday's Featured Farrah—Great Balls of Comfort to Cream Your Face

2011-03-25T13:55:00.005-05:00

Here's the second installment of Friday's Farrah Featured as we count down to the Spring Ride. This time it's a double feature of Farrah fun—these two simply must be watched together.

Not much else to say, except I wish I was Joe Namath in the '70s.

Friday's Featured Farrah—Cougar on the Beach

2011-03-18T12:06:00.006-05:00

As part of the countdown to one of Farrah's rare appearances at 2011's Spring Ride, here's the first installment of "Farrah Featured". This clip dates back to 1975, about a year before her star reached a new high as an iconic member of Charlie's Angels.

My grandfather owned this car in red. I realized even back then it was a pretty cool car, but now I better understand there was more involved in his purchase decision-making than the 351 cu in V8 or the all-vinyl bucket seats with center console. Yes, Ben had good taste in cars and women.

For inspiration...

2011-03-11T16:25:00.002-06:00

Only a week away....

SOB

2011-02-22T16:51:00.008-06:00

Weird and a bit freaky, but awesome. I have to share what landed in my inbox today.

In response to the Local Super Hero posting below, I received an anonymous email this afternoon which simply contained the image shown below with the following text:

"A hero walks among us - summerofbrad.wordpress.com."

I'm not completely sure what to make of this or who is responsible—a clearly fictitious gmail account was used to transmit what you see here (sort of reminded me of Scorpio in Dirty Harry, only without the bad intent).

Without doubt, the Summer of Brad moniker has taken a life of its own. Where will this take us? I'll be following closely, bemused and entertained.

Local Super Hero

2011-02-22T09:36:00.007-06:00

One of our favorite ultra-endurance riders is featured in today's Winnipeg Free Press. There's nothing new here to read for those of us who know and/or follow Arvid. It affirms what we already know about him—he's awesome in a number of ways.

I suspect we'll be reading more about him once summer rolls around. As always, he has something remarkable planned.

The article can be found here.

Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo

2011-02-09T10:57:00.003-06:00

I have it on good authority the Summer of Brad™ will come to fruition. Something was mentioned, however, about him riding his new pumpkin-coloured bike after midnight. I didn't quite catch it, but I'm sure all will be fine.

Now, if we could just get the Back 40 confirmed for 2011...

More Jens

2011-01-07T13:32:00.005-06:00

Fortunately for other riders, new equipment regulations prevent Jens Voigt from racing his father's bike

Anger, Rage, Fury, Breakaway...

2011-01-06T16:09:00.005-06:00

Jens would have to be a favoured candidate to be RRR's honourary captain, if we felt we needed to have one. He's everything you want him to be, but then makes you feel foolish for not expecting more from him.

Jens Voigt once challenged Lance Armstrong to a "who has more testicles" contest. Jens won... by five.

Get the Jens facts.

Read Anything Good Lately?

2011-01-02T21:10:00.007-06:00

I really like biking. I also enjoy reading. Lately I've been doing more reading than I have been biking, but at least the books I have been reading are about biking, so that's all good.

This post was inspired in part by an article on the 50 Best Cycling Books that appeared in the Dec. issue of Cycle Sport Magazine (a great mag I've subscribed to out of the UK). After reading the article, I put the number 2 book, "A Rough Ride," by Paul Kimmage, on my Christmas wish list and was pleased to have received it. This came shortly after I got "Around the World on a Bicycle", which is the story of Fred Birchmore, a 24 year old out of Athens Georgia who circled the globe with a bicycle he named Bucephelus. His trip totalled over 20,000 miles, and the crazy thing about his story is that he completed his adventure in the mid 1930's. His tale is unbelievable and the testament of a truly tough guy. (I'm pretty sure Brad was the one that stumbled on this guy's story in some obscure online cycling article - anyway, I now own the book and it's worth reading)

Here's a picture of Fred's 40lb ride, which now resides in the Smithsonian.

I guess I'm wondering how many of the books from the top 50 cycling books article would you recommend? I own "French Revolutions", number 9 on the list, and it's a laugh out loud good read. Regardless of the fact I don't really like Lance, I did enjoy reading "It's Not About the Bike". I think it helped that he had only won about 2-3 Tours at the time of reading and it was still ok to admire him at the time.

TNR Report, RRR Style

2010-12-29T10:40:00.008-06:00

Some may recall the March 31, 2009 TNR as one of the best, if not the best TNRs of 2009. The combination of mild temps, minimal wind, and large snowflakes made for a Norman Rockwell atmosphere in which to ride. Last night had a very similar feel, and once again, only five riders were on hand to partake in an awesome night on two wheels. As Brad and I are the only two constants between then and now, we are hi-jacking this week’s TNR report.

After espressos and ho’cho at the alternate winter HQ, we set out westward from the Forks via the river trail which was more-or-less a long slab of ice (snow-covered except under the bridges). Both the Hipster and Thomas were only a few meters into the ride when they were abruptly reminded or the perils of riding on ice. Thomas went down especially hard, sliding bottom-first with “take-out weight” into limestone blocks. Thomas’ explanation of how the impact was absorbed by his body will not be repeated here at this time. The rest of the ride was uneventful, yet exceptionally enjoyable. The riverbank trails we’ve been on the past few weeks were better than ever, worthy of a do-over.

Later at the Assiniboine Park duck pond a best-of-seven knock-down race ensued, a sort of Anger Cross part deux, given the joy the Impaler had as he schooled both young and old. The results:

The Impaler
Thomas
KK
Tenacious V
The Hipster

Later at the klubhaus, Johnny S and his ThNR note-taking, Sportnet’s plays of the year (“ultimate is gay”), the horse barn throw-down, speaking in the third person, Thor’s SMASH upcoming Paris-Roubaix win in the rainbow jersey, and V’s multiple encounters with death were discussed. V was also propositioned in the men’s room by a BC transplant looking to join the FGBC and take part in the TNRs, and then some.

Alt and modern rock made up the night’s set list—Cake, The Silversun Pickups, Jet, and The National to name a few. The Cheap Trick streak has finally ended.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

2010-12-23T11:00:00.004-06:00

Thanks to all we've bumped shoulders with over the past 12 months. You've helped make 2010 a great year for riding bikes and having fun. 2011's already shaping up to be a great year with more good times in store.

Something For Larry...

2010-12-02T14:38:00.001-06:00

...to do on his crabon Scott.

RRR Jersey ordering time?

2010-12-01T07:17:00.003-06:00

As the cold winter chill sets in, I ponder what could make me feel even cozier in my new RRR cycling 'home'.....the answer is simple, a new wool RRR jersey! Oregon Cycle Wear has chosen to release a new jersey style , the 'Morrison', to coincide with my move to RRR (I wonder if Fabian is suggesting Frank and Andy also place an order this week as he moves to Luxembourg?). So if you don't have a jersey, or want another, or like Larry, need to drop some $$ this week on a cycling related purchase, let me know!

Discounts are present for 2 ($69) or more, then for 14($53) or more jerseys. I doubt we will get to 14, we are already at 2 (I have told my wife, Mary, that Mrs. Cancellara will support her man by wearing his new colors, she has capitulated)!

Halloween at the Harbour photos

2010-11-23T19:45:00.008-06:00

Murray Braun, RRR affiliate and citizen racer extraordinaire, handed me a disc a few weeks ago with some pictures he took at our race. I kind of forgot about it til now, but here they are.

Cross vids

2010-11-23T19:40:00.002-06:00

I found these on the Velonews website. A great series of cx videos. Sigh. It's almost over for another year...

Cross Crusade Race #5 Astoria - Chapter 1 from Burk Webb on Vimeo.

KK goes ape

2010-11-21T18:14:00.001-06:00

KK goes ape from Brad on Vimeo.

You have to turn up the volume, it's all about the heckling.

At The Rundfart Checkpoint

2010-11-11T14:35:00.007-06:00

On a day where we remember grit and determination, it only makes sense to enjoy our freedom by voluntarily participating in a ride requiring grit and determination. Rules 5, 9, 21, and 67 are in full effect below. As I write this in the warm comfort of home, they're still out there, about half done.

Violation of rule 50 is forgiven, as this is Movember.

2010-11-11T11:00:00.000-06:00

Cross Provincials

2010-11-08T17:15:00.008-06:00

In cross there's a 101 things to do right, and that means there are 101 things to go wrong. For me, the two things went terribly wrong at the worst possible part of the race. With 3 laps to go--BAM! Down on the gravelly left corner off the parking lot into park of soul-sucking grass. With 2 laps to go--BAM! Face plant in the ditch.

Up until the first crash, I had enjoyed a hard-fought race with Ian and G, managing to open a gap on them and s-l-o-w-l-y reel in Rocket Ron. Ian and G caught me at after my navigational error and the heat was turned up with just 2 to go. I had managed to continually make a bit of time on them, confident I could hold them off until the end. Alas, I tempted fate one too many times at crossing the ditch and augured hard for some up-close dirt sampling. That pretty much left me that semi-coherent daze for the final lap. I spent all of last night wishing I had elected for the safe option of dismounting at that stage in the race. Oh well, so it goes. I had fun with Ian and G; it was definitely the most fun I've had this cross season. Next year race...next race I'll try to do one or two more things right. Until then, a hearty helping of road rash will remind me to ride smarter, not harder on the 27th.

Thankfully, Mike did more right than wrong and earned himself a bronze in the 40+ race to make sure RRR didn't go home completely empty-handed. Good job, Mike.

Thanks again to the race organizers and volunteers. Your efforts are appreciated.

Deb and I snapped a lot of photos. You can find the photo dump here.

Cheerleaders ("go, buddy!") and hecklers

Halloween at the Harbour Lost and Found

2010-11-07T10:50:00.003-06:00

Here's an assortment of items left behind at last weekend's race. If any of these are yours, please find me or someone in a RRR jersey at today's race.

A smaller pair of these MEC mitts may have been taken by accident. If you have a pair that's too small, these might be yours. Little Jonah would like his mitts back.

And if this was your bottle of Little Scrapper, too bad.

Next Year and This Weekend

2010-11-04T13:59:00.007-05:00

Next year we'll have human moving barriers. What a great idea. We're taking names now for those willing to volunteer for this job. Sign up now and beat the rush.

Some other fun photos from the Cross Crusade Halloween race can be found here to inspire you for next year's Halloween at the Harbour. But for now, all sights should be focused on the Provincials. Details on that here.

Halloween at the Harbour Results

2010-11-01T13:22:00.006-05:00

Forget Olli's big win of the day, Rene's kick-ass costume, the cowbells, or the whoop-dees. The Cyclocross Manitoba poster-child has undoubtedly set the bar high for the next year's Halloween race when it comes to making a lasting memory in everyone's minds. It's the disconcerting combination of cute playfulness and an ever-so delicate sprinkling of facial hair that left people bewildered with conflicting senses of aversion and attraction.

A big thanks for all those that attended, both to race and cheer/jeer. By all accounts, the race was a success with 80 riders showing.

Full results may be found here. Photo galleries are here, here, and here.

trainer for sale

2010-10-31T14:55:00.001-05:00

I've upgraded my indoor trainer, so the old one's for sale.

http://winnipeg.kijiji.ca/c-buy-and-sell-sports-bikes-Bike-Trainer-for-indoor-fitness-W0QQAdIdZ239312100

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like...

2010-10-29T22:11:00.006-05:00

...Halloween!

Growing up in Manitoba, you always knew Halloween often brought snow. Looking out the window tonight, I noticed a bit of the white stuff starting to accumulate. But have no fear. It won't last, but will make tomorrow's cross race—Halloween at the Harbour if you've been living under a tomb stone—as memorable as the first time your parents let you go out for a second pillow case of candy corn, Rockets, and that earwax-like stuff in the black and orange wrappers. What was that stuff anyway?

Course construction is well underway. A bit more work is to be done tomorrow morning before the registration desk opens at 11:00. We'll be congregating at 8:30 (-ish) to tie up the loose ends and get a head start on the good times. Feel free to come out and give us a hand if you're so inclined.

Help wanted

2010-10-28T12:45:00.003-05:00

We will be doing the majority of course marking on Friday afternoon. Saturday morning we will start the final set up at 8:30. Any help Saturday morning would be greatly appreciated. Email me at bradleeennzAThotmailDOTcom for details.

There is a Salisbury House restaurant in the park and they are making lots of soup, coffee and hot chocolate which will be available for purchase.

CrossTastic Report—A Repost of Sorts

2010-10-25T10:57:00.006-05:00

Mike sort of scooped my "cross sucks" take on yesterday's race at Whittier Park. I'll let him have it though, as I was going to re-post something he put up about a year ago. After watching from the sidelines last year, I'm fully experiencing the same sentiments he expressed here, particularly the first 4 paragraphs or so. I'll just leave it at that...and add that I'm not at all superstitious.

Overall for RRR, it wasn't the best of days. Ryan crashed out very early on in the B race, Artur had a rare off day, and Brad wiped out on the run-up and hurt his hand which set the tone for the rest of his race. Michelle (wearing the cool jersey she won at last year's CrossTastic), however, did well. Despite a quick and dirty fix to a rear der shifting problem mere minutes before the start of her race, she rode a strong race on her new 3x1 (big thanks to the good samaritans that provided mechanical expertise and tools for this quick fix). Despite this last-minute distraction, it might have been her best race all year. Larry and Jane also rode well to respectable finishes. For Jane, this was her first CX race.

Thanks to Gary and all the volunteers that made CrossTastc great. The course was punishing but fun. I look forward to exacting my revenge next year. Until then, here are some photos from the kids and B race to enjoy. More photos here, here, here, and here.

Next week: Halloween at the Harbour—win a sweet carbon fibre Cane Creek wheelset or one of the cool door prizes. Wear your costume and increase your odds of winning (and fun).

Cross Sucks! Kidney Stones Suck More!

2010-10-25T09:39:00.003-05:00

So as much as I hate cyclocross- kidney stones are worse.
After a great course put on by Gary and the FOG guys, I felt fine- until it was time to leave. Pain dropped me to my knees. Good thing we have doctors on our team- and nurses- Dr. Larry drove me home in my close to passing out state- said it sounded like a kidney stone- (Thanks to Jane too)
Later that night the pain returned- a couple of visits to the porcelain throne on my knees (yes just like cross it drove me to vomit), and off to the hospital- only 5 hours of sitting around there and it appears I may have/had have, a kidney stone.
So, I have my excuse for Sunday's cross race- what's yours?

Swag: CrossTastic and Halloween at the Harbour

2010-10-21T16:36:00.001-05:00

A couple of exciting races are on the horizon. First is this Sunday's CrossTactic at Whittier Park, put on by Gary and the FOG club. Based on Gary's philosophy of what a cyclocross course should be (at dirty road race) and what Whittier Park has to offer, expect this one to be a fast course.

Despite the fun of racing, the highlight will no doubt be the handing out of 3 Ridley cyclcross bike frames AND a top-end TRP brake set. Nice! (Can't wait to bring one of those Ridleys home.)

All the details, including A and B seeding, can be found at the CrossTastic site.

Next on the calendar is our very own Halloween at the Harbour (not to be confused with Hal Loewen at the Harbour, though I supposed the "sexy librarian" could be a side show to some). You can find all the details if you click on the graphic in the right-hand column. We've put a lot of thought and effort into making this a fun event, but that's not to say the course will be easy.

If you are lucky enough to win one of CrossTastic framesets, you'll want to make sure you're at our race on the 30th. Even if you don't win anything on Sunday, you'll want to be at our race for a chance to win our grand prize for the day—a carbon fibre Cane Creek wheelset worth $1,500!

Wear a costume! You'll get one ballot for showing up, but earn an additional entry into the door prize drawings if you're dressed up. In addition to the door prizes, prizes will also be awarded for best costume, so dig into that tickle trunk and try not to spew in your mask.

Southern Cross

2010-10-21T10:20:00.003-05:00

I can't remember the last time I fell off my bike. I don't know what that says about me. Am I too timid? Too slow? Really smooth? Or just lucky?

At Southern Cross the streak ended. I got off to my usual fast start (which is typically followed by a slow fade to mid pack) and was in the top three or four when we hit the hill area for the first time. Like many others, I went down on that cursed shiny straw. The first time was pretty harmless. Up and rolling without losing much time. The second time not so lucky. I went down hard and was passed by several riders. And I have some pretty nice rash to show for it.

Both crashes were in the first lap, so I knew I had some time to get back in the mix. I started to pass a few folks and by the end I finished near where I felt I should have. For the third or fourth time this year I had a race within the race with Dallas. I got up to him, but just couldn't get by. I thought that's where I would finish, but he was kind enough to crash on the last lap and let me get by. What a guy.

Who knows what could have been if I could have used all that energy a bit further up in the group? Racing is full of unanswered questions like these. RRR's very own Artur Pich proved to be the most consistent racer of the weekend and took the top honors for B. Well done.

After my race I sped through my usual clean up and re-hydration routine to get ready for the best part of the day: heckling. With Dallas leading the charge, we assembled 30 strong on the hill. At some point we noticed some of the A racers were dismounting at the railway ties and running up the hill. A lot of us B slobs rode that, so of course this unleashed some vicious heckling. Sorry Anna, you deserved it.

The first time I saw Olli round that turn and get assaulted by the screams, he bunny hopped the ties clearing them easily and accelerated up the hill. I think I'm in love...Tristan, Tomek, and Luc also get top marks for form.

But the best move of the day was for sure by Rene. He almost got his front wheel, I mean Cam's front wheel, over the ties. But not quite. The endo was spectacular, as was the pretzeled handlebar that resulted. That hushed the crowd. For about two seconds. Man I do love me some heckling. I'm glad you're OK Rene.

Good times at the curling club to finish the day. Tons of swag was doled out, lots of Southern Cross IPA flowed, and chips were eaten. Every champions post race food of choice. And I went home with a sweet Sugoi cycling cap.

All in all another great day in Altona. Thanks to Johnny S and all the ABES crew. You guys know how to put on an event.

Next up, the amazing prize fest that is Crosstastic, and then our spooktacular Halloween at the Harbour. Singlespeeders be afraid, be very, very afraid.

I Think I'm Turning Superstitious

2010-10-18T23:23:00.000-05:00

Saturday's race at St. Malo was the best I've had in a while. No mechanicals or flats. It was more than less a good day. Would have liked to finish in the top 10, but that's more about doing your homework ("if you want the grades you got to do your homework") and eating properly. Both of which have been less than more of a priority post-Hot Pursuit (my bad).

Anyway, on Saturday, in my scramble to get to the venue on time, I left behind several "race day essentials". No wool jersey to wear pre-race to keep me warm, no gloves, and no race jersey. Well, I did have the old white one—it would have to do. As I pulled it on, I realized the worst races I've had in a long time seem to happen when I don the new RRR jersey.

Starting a the back of the pack is far from ideal, but I did manage to work my way up closer to the front before the first tight corner where I took the honour of being the first to break the tape. Too aggressive (again), hoping to force the guy next to me to take a different line (he didn't...again). After getting the mess of tape out of my brake hanger, I was off and chasing hard to get back with the guys I was with when the mishap occurred.

I did catch up and managed to hang on for most of the race. I slowly reeled in a few guys, which felt good. Yikes! I was actually having fun! Rock on, ratty old white jersey!

It was a good course. Chapeau to the Olympia gang and the town of St. Malo for a fun day. As much as the run-up sucked, it was awesome. Same goes for the sand.

I couldn't make it out to Southern Cross. I was pretty bummed about that all day as I felt good to race on Sunday. Alas, being home on Sunday afternoon allowed me to accept an invite to watch Jason Bonham's Led Zepplin Experience from the comfort of a fully-stocked corporate box. So much for the homework I had intended for the evening.

I snapped a few pics of the St. Malo B-race; you can find them here. I would have taken more of everyone, but my camera batteries died early on.

I must say Artur never looked so at home in any race as he did on the St. Malo sand. Must be the shorts. With Artur being the winner of the Grand Prix Sugoi package, it's my guess he'll be rocking some new bib-knickers at Whittier. Not.