With the Australian summer well and truly underway, my heart goes out to all the farmers who have lost stock and huge amounts of healthy pastures from all the rains in our last summer.
Once the summer begins the racing evaporates and so do the blogs. If a mountain biker wants to race where does he go. Well he goes on strava. Something I had heard about but until you start logging rides you have no idea how fun or addictive it can be, having not ridden my bike today because of the heat, I sit here writing this blog so I'm not out trying take some poor buggas KOM in the dark. I'm better off resting and saving my legs for the spin class I have at 745am. The segments will always be there tomorrow right?
My thanks go to Magellan for supplying me with a multisport gps unit called "switch up" a device to track your every move and heart beat while swimming, running and cycling..
So my journey begins via the satellites high in the sky. I was having a great old time ripping up any climb I could find doing so with a 11-32 cassette has defiantly been a battle but for the first time in a long time my riding mojo is burning deep with, yes the hills hurt and some days have been tough but all the while I am having fun. So what does one do when the challenge of strava has a challenge. With some peer pressure I sign up for the RAPHA 500. Simply put 500kms from Xmas eve to new years eve. With not going home for Christmas I thought this will be a good week to keep me busy.
I got off to a very rusty start with coming down with flu symptoms just before Xmas eve. I taught on Xmas eve to a packed spin room then headed out that night for some shenanigans. Xmas day well was the wettest one in 70years, boxing day comes around and with a class in the afternoon I had to start doing some Kms fast. I looked at the wind and jumped on it as it blew me north to Norah head lighthouse, I was hoping to do a lap of some sort but I was short of time so I just turned around and rode the soul destroying headwind for the 30km ride back to base.
Day 2 had a lot more fun factor riding with mates to dubbo gully. It was great to have my close friend Paris there as the last time any of us did this ride was together maybe 6years ago. The ride took in the most technical parts of the CONVICT 100 race. Sheppards gully spat us out near st albans, we ride all the way to wisemans ferry. To where we reach the western commissioners track. From what Wayne had to say its a brutal climb. I bid everyone farewell and good luck and I set to work on the climb, this climb was truly a monster, finally I reach the top near the powerlines oh but so wrong it goes up again. As I begin the descent the reward all thoughts of returning to the others rudely skipped my mind and I soon catch up to other riders from the central coast, after a quickly learn there is more riders ahead and good friends of mine. I switch to seek and destroy mode and close the gap as fast as I could, we get to all descend into dubbo gully together. They all ride on, while I wait for the rest of my party. We carry on back to mangrove shops to get 89kms done.
Day 3 I get up pretty early and head towards yarramalong valley to crank out some Kms, I made it back home for lunch with another 80km but that's just not enough I really wanted 120 for the day. So I did a loop of Brisbane waters before my 530spin to make it to 120km.
Day 4 being a Saturday I have spin at 745am then I set on my strava mission I no longer can handle easy road Kms I head to the bush I suffer all of the first 60km but as each km went by my spirits lifted as I was getting closer to the 120k mark. I went every where I could but always staying in touch with civilisation so I could refill my water bottle. 5hrs, 2100m later I made it home and into the ice bath I soak.
Day 5 I get to ride with a mate bryce and show him some trails he has never been on and before a late breaky 40km was done. I head out again in the afternoon and I only fitted in another 45before the sun went down.
Day 6. So close now needing only 20kms to finish it off I take a cruzy ride to terrigal for breakfast then back to Erina for my new years eve 915am spin class.
500k 8200m of climbing.
Now that was the perfect way to end 2012.
Just chops.
Friday, January 11, 2013
Sunday, December 9, 2012
Sydney 24hr Mt Annan
To finish off any year of mountain biking a team 24hr race is the best way possible. It involves your mates, biking fast and road trip with a dash of camping. Perfect nirvana.
The location was to be Mt Annan in western sydney and the event was run by Rocky trail entertainment. I had the boys from rideettalong.com.au offer me a place in their elite team of 4, the team contained Matt (owner) Jon ( mechanic) Brett ( Machine) and myself (chops) they hooked me up with a sweet brand new kit, which just happens to match my Turner flux from www.scvimports.com.au as my birthday was recently I was able finally got rid of my 4yo avids and threw on an XO drivetrain for good measure.
The road trip began on a Friday morning in a caravan convey, and I became 'one' of those people with a flattyre on the F3. I had the pleasure of pumping the spare up with a track pump to keep us rolling on. The closer we got to the race track the itcher my legs got to get out on the track, A trail I had not seen before had me chomping at the bit to go riding. Reality hit real quick, as you stepped out of an air conditioned car into 30 plus heat! The men who we hired a circus tent from showed up to erect the marquee, to get the party started.. I headed out around 4pm for my first lap here.. I return and make some changes to my fork pressure, I ran them a little bit softer to feel the floating affect so to keep good traction on the hard pack. I headed out again looking to smooth out the track and to make the pinch climbs more efficient, I found the best line for the rock gardens and really got my sweat on. Now to rest up till race time.
Come midday on Saturday the oven was turned to Roast, but we hustled into the start line. MC Crafty kept the humour high with seeding positions by how smooth ones legs were.
The pace was on from the gun with a lap of the camping ground to stretch the field out, riding along inside the top 10 with so many different categories their was no need to burn the legs early just to beat the odd 6+6 rider to the single track.
We started our race with only 3men, after my third lap Jon was in transition ready for his first lap, and his first lap here a 28min lap was posted. Conditions really improved when the southerly hit in the late afternoon combined with some torq powder Jon brought from the shop and having a longer pit stop between laps I was supercharged as my next lap will be my last before the sun sets, I was able to get my lap time down to 26:02.. I was pumped and really had the track dialled.
The lights go on but we all seemed to struggle with depth perception on our first lap, second time around everything seemed a lot more natural, compared to the start the temperature seemed perfect for every other 24hr race I've done being in Canberra, racing at night and not feeling cold was a pure delight. We start to hit up some double laps through the night as we fought to catch 2nd place. The race was way to exciting and non of us got any sleep. Matt had the dawn lap honour with clouds to spoil any sun that could of shone through. We now race one lap each to keep the intensity high and the enjoyment even higher. 8am comes around and we have found ourselves just minutes from the lead, it creates a huge smile on my dial and matt has a 'let's go hunting' look in his eyes. I await matts arrival in transition keeping a close eye on the timing computers to try and find out what the team we are chasing looks like, they come through on a 29min lap.. Now I just need matt here real soon so I can close the gap.. He does arrive within 2mins and I stomp it out of the event centre with a taste of blood, I hunt down our competition and pass him before the shimano switchbacks, and finish the lap as hard as I could to most my second fastest lap. The leaders gave me a good sledge as I appeared from the scrub before their rider :)
I send out Jon with the info that we are in front, he holds the lead, brett then steps up to ride thru cramping legs to keep our lead, when matt goes out he was only 4 seconds in front.
My plan now is really get us in front, 2nd place was chasing hard so I had to really pull out something special so I can give my team mates one last lap to. My lap begins with crusty legs after posting a low 26min lap before hand. Knowing every minute I was on course was getting us ahead of 2nd place gave me enormous amount motivation to really bury myself.
I rip into transition but excelerate straight back out, in the corner of my eye I see a raging bull chase me, oh it's just brett. I yell I got this covered as he chokes on some dust. I finish my double as the day is heating up and I was very cooked I refuel the best I can while battling my eyes from staying shut. We now have a 7min lead, we all wait nervously for brett to return not knowing how his legs will go it was a nervous wait. Jon heads out to smash his last lap while I wait with matt as the tension builds 2nd place is closing in on us but it's just one last lap matt. The pep talk of keeping the lines smooth but riding to empty the tank works well, we make the final tag at 1145am and I'm back on course one last time 'don't crash keep pushing don't crash keep pushing' was circling through my thoughts I did drift off into ' how good is this we are going to win' my legs where so toast. Hitting the finish line to a huge cheer from the 30 coasties that where there and crafty revved up the crowd, I took the beer that was offered and really enjoyed spraying team mates and the crowd with it.
Winner by 2min 30. Wow what a race.
Justchops :)
The location was to be Mt Annan in western sydney and the event was run by Rocky trail entertainment. I had the boys from rideettalong.com.au offer me a place in their elite team of 4, the team contained Matt (owner) Jon ( mechanic) Brett ( Machine) and myself (chops) they hooked me up with a sweet brand new kit, which just happens to match my Turner flux from www.scvimports.com.au as my birthday was recently I was able finally got rid of my 4yo avids and threw on an XO drivetrain for good measure.
The road trip began on a Friday morning in a caravan convey, and I became 'one' of those people with a flattyre on the F3. I had the pleasure of pumping the spare up with a track pump to keep us rolling on. The closer we got to the race track the itcher my legs got to get out on the track, A trail I had not seen before had me chomping at the bit to go riding. Reality hit real quick, as you stepped out of an air conditioned car into 30 plus heat! The men who we hired a circus tent from showed up to erect the marquee, to get the party started.. I headed out around 4pm for my first lap here.. I return and make some changes to my fork pressure, I ran them a little bit softer to feel the floating affect so to keep good traction on the hard pack. I headed out again looking to smooth out the track and to make the pinch climbs more efficient, I found the best line for the rock gardens and really got my sweat on. Now to rest up till race time.
Come midday on Saturday the oven was turned to Roast, but we hustled into the start line. MC Crafty kept the humour high with seeding positions by how smooth ones legs were.
The pace was on from the gun with a lap of the camping ground to stretch the field out, riding along inside the top 10 with so many different categories their was no need to burn the legs early just to beat the odd 6+6 rider to the single track.
We started our race with only 3men, after my third lap Jon was in transition ready for his first lap, and his first lap here a 28min lap was posted. Conditions really improved when the southerly hit in the late afternoon combined with some torq powder Jon brought from the shop and having a longer pit stop between laps I was supercharged as my next lap will be my last before the sun sets, I was able to get my lap time down to 26:02.. I was pumped and really had the track dialled.
The lights go on but we all seemed to struggle with depth perception on our first lap, second time around everything seemed a lot more natural, compared to the start the temperature seemed perfect for every other 24hr race I've done being in Canberra, racing at night and not feeling cold was a pure delight. We start to hit up some double laps through the night as we fought to catch 2nd place. The race was way to exciting and non of us got any sleep. Matt had the dawn lap honour with clouds to spoil any sun that could of shone through. We now race one lap each to keep the intensity high and the enjoyment even higher. 8am comes around and we have found ourselves just minutes from the lead, it creates a huge smile on my dial and matt has a 'let's go hunting' look in his eyes. I await matts arrival in transition keeping a close eye on the timing computers to try and find out what the team we are chasing looks like, they come through on a 29min lap.. Now I just need matt here real soon so I can close the gap.. He does arrive within 2mins and I stomp it out of the event centre with a taste of blood, I hunt down our competition and pass him before the shimano switchbacks, and finish the lap as hard as I could to most my second fastest lap. The leaders gave me a good sledge as I appeared from the scrub before their rider :)
I send out Jon with the info that we are in front, he holds the lead, brett then steps up to ride thru cramping legs to keep our lead, when matt goes out he was only 4 seconds in front.
My plan now is really get us in front, 2nd place was chasing hard so I had to really pull out something special so I can give my team mates one last lap to. My lap begins with crusty legs after posting a low 26min lap before hand. Knowing every minute I was on course was getting us ahead of 2nd place gave me enormous amount motivation to really bury myself.
I rip into transition but excelerate straight back out, in the corner of my eye I see a raging bull chase me, oh it's just brett. I yell I got this covered as he chokes on some dust. I finish my double as the day is heating up and I was very cooked I refuel the best I can while battling my eyes from staying shut. We now have a 7min lead, we all wait nervously for brett to return not knowing how his legs will go it was a nervous wait. Jon heads out to smash his last lap while I wait with matt as the tension builds 2nd place is closing in on us but it's just one last lap matt. The pep talk of keeping the lines smooth but riding to empty the tank works well, we make the final tag at 1145am and I'm back on course one last time 'don't crash keep pushing don't crash keep pushing' was circling through my thoughts I did drift off into ' how good is this we are going to win' my legs where so toast. Hitting the finish line to a huge cheer from the 30 coasties that where there and crafty revved up the crowd, I took the beer that was offered and really enjoyed spraying team mates and the crowd with it.
Winner by 2min 30. Wow what a race.
Justchops :)
Monday, October 1, 2012
Rocky trail GP4 final round.
In the trail news reports where that the chance of racing at Appin was skidding through the corner with not much hope in keeping it upright. And with as much enjoyment of a burped front tyre on a corner, racing at Appin was called off.
The race was then moved to ourimbah, not so rocky now...But would the event still encourage riders? Would the race have the vibe? So how can I make you believe it was a BIG yes... Does martin have the best playlist and the funniest Mc at any event? Yup he sure does.
I took my morning spin class off and tried to not cook my legs in Friday arvo spin class, And with a friendly invite from Juliane I was pumped to race, I turned up a lil late after a crappy night sleep, and do apologise for my shortness to all the friendly faces I seen, a small reccy to check out the right lines to the dropoff.
The start.
Mc craft had a firm grip on a rider called jared Hughes, they were chatting about his win in the KOM category of the Tour of Timor, And then mentions him racing the 4hr... That interview was to be the last time I saw Jared. I cruise up to the start, 'hi matt Fleming' geez I hope he's not doing 4hr solo.
We get our Gangman style on and the countdown begins, itchy nerves had riders rolling before the gun went, but we get away cleanly the negotiate a sketchy hairpin through event centre and into the single track where some rider rag dolled it to the ground causing chaos, stomping on and by the time of the fired road all the leaders where long gone.
Time to ride strong and smooth, that's what equals fast at ourimbah, the track was pretty busy with riders not sure of this concept, so the decisive move is to over take on the back plateau, everyone thought that was a good idea, it blocked any gap I went looking and to add salt to the wound a tree went into my rear derailer. And a whole lot of colourful language emerged. I told you I had a crap night sleep. So I stopped to pull out a chainsaw to remove the 6foot long branch I was dragging along, and catch up by jelly leg climb. Grabbing a few spot before the rollercoaster. The new piece of trail at the bottom was a shock, but good for cornering skills. Over redbelly rock I'm hunting down more positions waiting for the climb to overtake, but my rear derailer activates its dyson abilities once more. I lose my shit again, while Brian price does his best to cool me down, such a knowledgeable rider and guy I've spent along time chasing and admired went I tried to race Agrade at any WSMTB round.
I walk the climb get back on, I pull the belt tight on my cranky pants and set to smashing myself.
Up short meadows and through browns, I avoid the gap jump, to the disappointment to my mate Wayne with his camera (pics will appear soon from anyone who hit the jump). Lap 1done.
Lap 2 was my fastest as I found the middle ground between xc pace and 4hr pace with no energy powder, only gels and bars from TORQ, and a stupid tight bottle cage. The ups and downs of ourimbah begin the energy levels fluctuate just as much.. I hit the gap jump..... Nope I dog it again.
Lap 3 consisted of me talking to myself 'hit the jump hit the jump' into browns I try to find some leg power after the climb, a huge Yeewwwwww to warn Wayne I was on my way. Sh*****t I launch gripping tight and not just my hands... And land safely, that's a big deal after last weekends efforts.
Lap 4 I hit it again this time without the look of constipation. Lap 5 Wayne has left and I'm back on the B line.
Closing in on the end of the race, the game of refuelling is crucial as I watch the clock. Aiming to finish just after the 4hr mark is ideal, no idea of my position or how far any rider is in front or behind, 8laps done at 3hrs 55, I slow at timing to ask if I was far enough of the next place rider to stop, as I open my mouth MC craft grabs the mic, I'd managed to stay out of trouble with him all day which is rare, later to find Fleming was his pick on guy for the day . "don't worry if crafty has the mic stopping is not an option" I say and roll on. My last 3laps where 2seconds apart, very happy with that. I come around to the finish line to " well done chops 2nd place" yewwww. I was truly stuffed after that, and took to the nearest deck chair. Jared took 1st and matt Flemming was to pull out. And my mate Jorge got 3rd. To the podium for some beer XTR bling and a fridge magnet trophy.
Very happy with the mental hurdles I cleared to race that well and just to escape the world on my bike is pure bliss.
Well done to everyone that was out there having a ball.
Biggest thanks goes to martin and Juliane for inviting me to race and holding events with so much passion, we are all very lucky to have these people in our lives.
Just chops
:)
The race was then moved to ourimbah, not so rocky now...But would the event still encourage riders? Would the race have the vibe? So how can I make you believe it was a BIG yes... Does martin have the best playlist and the funniest Mc at any event? Yup he sure does.
I took my morning spin class off and tried to not cook my legs in Friday arvo spin class, And with a friendly invite from Juliane I was pumped to race, I turned up a lil late after a crappy night sleep, and do apologise for my shortness to all the friendly faces I seen, a small reccy to check out the right lines to the dropoff.
The start.
Mc craft had a firm grip on a rider called jared Hughes, they were chatting about his win in the KOM category of the Tour of Timor, And then mentions him racing the 4hr... That interview was to be the last time I saw Jared. I cruise up to the start, 'hi matt Fleming' geez I hope he's not doing 4hr solo.
We get our Gangman style on and the countdown begins, itchy nerves had riders rolling before the gun went, but we get away cleanly the negotiate a sketchy hairpin through event centre and into the single track where some rider rag dolled it to the ground causing chaos, stomping on and by the time of the fired road all the leaders where long gone.
Time to ride strong and smooth, that's what equals fast at ourimbah, the track was pretty busy with riders not sure of this concept, so the decisive move is to over take on the back plateau, everyone thought that was a good idea, it blocked any gap I went looking and to add salt to the wound a tree went into my rear derailer. And a whole lot of colourful language emerged. I told you I had a crap night sleep. So I stopped to pull out a chainsaw to remove the 6foot long branch I was dragging along, and catch up by jelly leg climb. Grabbing a few spot before the rollercoaster. The new piece of trail at the bottom was a shock, but good for cornering skills. Over redbelly rock I'm hunting down more positions waiting for the climb to overtake, but my rear derailer activates its dyson abilities once more. I lose my shit again, while Brian price does his best to cool me down, such a knowledgeable rider and guy I've spent along time chasing and admired went I tried to race Agrade at any WSMTB round.
I walk the climb get back on, I pull the belt tight on my cranky pants and set to smashing myself.
Up short meadows and through browns, I avoid the gap jump, to the disappointment to my mate Wayne with his camera (pics will appear soon from anyone who hit the jump). Lap 1done.
Lap 2 was my fastest as I found the middle ground between xc pace and 4hr pace with no energy powder, only gels and bars from TORQ, and a stupid tight bottle cage. The ups and downs of ourimbah begin the energy levels fluctuate just as much.. I hit the gap jump..... Nope I dog it again.
Lap 3 consisted of me talking to myself 'hit the jump hit the jump' into browns I try to find some leg power after the climb, a huge Yeewwwwww to warn Wayne I was on my way. Sh*****t I launch gripping tight and not just my hands... And land safely, that's a big deal after last weekends efforts.
Lap 4 I hit it again this time without the look of constipation. Lap 5 Wayne has left and I'm back on the B line.
Closing in on the end of the race, the game of refuelling is crucial as I watch the clock. Aiming to finish just after the 4hr mark is ideal, no idea of my position or how far any rider is in front or behind, 8laps done at 3hrs 55, I slow at timing to ask if I was far enough of the next place rider to stop, as I open my mouth MC craft grabs the mic, I'd managed to stay out of trouble with him all day which is rare, later to find Fleming was his pick on guy for the day . "don't worry if crafty has the mic stopping is not an option" I say and roll on. My last 3laps where 2seconds apart, very happy with that. I come around to the finish line to " well done chops 2nd place" yewwww. I was truly stuffed after that, and took to the nearest deck chair. Jared took 1st and matt Flemming was to pull out. And my mate Jorge got 3rd. To the podium for some beer XTR bling and a fridge magnet trophy.
Very happy with the mental hurdles I cleared to race that well and just to escape the world on my bike is pure bliss.
Well done to everyone that was out there having a ball.
Biggest thanks goes to martin and Juliane for inviting me to race and holding events with so much passion, we are all very lucky to have these people in our lives.
Just chops
:)
Monday, August 27, 2012
If the road was smooth?
Then I guess this blog would not be about life on a mountainbike. The sydney 12hr was a complete failure. Awaking on Friday morning with a itchy throat, it was just the beginning of the end. It got considerably worse that day, I went to bed with a head that was throbbing, only to awake around 4am needing the toilet badly, I walked there but it soon to a (the) run's.
But I was there to push limits. Sitting on the front line with all the enduro kings, hoping at best for a 3rd, with no technology attached to my stem to the amusement of Andy Hall, he was concerned for 'how would u know if your in the red?' I just explained when my heart pops out my chest I just pop it back in.. So we had a few good laughs. The gun goes and so did I, well not as much as Troy glennan or a Bernard rider does, but the first lap was fast and trouble free. Jason English came around me on lap 2, and suggested lets catch Andy before the flat road to the end of the valley.. I didn't answer back nor did my legs.. The sense of feeling crap only got worse, and after a few laps I had to stop for a long toilet break,, and then I was just done, my body ached ecerywhere while riding like a nana. Jason and Andy lapped me, Andy reckon I didn't have enough coco pops for breakfast..
Ok so now I'm getting lapped by riders I should be following and they are having enough fun they can crack jokes at you.. Yup that's a bad day alright.
Each pit stop was longer every lap doubled the fatigue..
But my friends put the life on hold to help me out for the wknd, this was the most painful part of the ride. Not meeting my friends expectations and getting nowhere near mine.. I survived the whole winter without getting, only to fall ill to my favourite race of the year..
5.5hrs in, I pull the pin.
My health being more important. I ended up having to teach 9spin class in 6days following the race.
So the confidence has taken a major blow... Do I enter the Scott 24hr off the back of that? It's $200... Will I make the distance.
I've done 24s before.. Can I still do them? Do I have the fitness.?
I just don't know anymore... Weeks are disappearing so fast with little amount of training, I just love to race.. But there is nothing in the summer to race, I finish uni at the start of November.
I just don't feel I'm fast enough to be a contender.
Just chops.. Lost.
But I was there to push limits. Sitting on the front line with all the enduro kings, hoping at best for a 3rd, with no technology attached to my stem to the amusement of Andy Hall, he was concerned for 'how would u know if your in the red?' I just explained when my heart pops out my chest I just pop it back in.. So we had a few good laughs. The gun goes and so did I, well not as much as Troy glennan or a Bernard rider does, but the first lap was fast and trouble free. Jason English came around me on lap 2, and suggested lets catch Andy before the flat road to the end of the valley.. I didn't answer back nor did my legs.. The sense of feeling crap only got worse, and after a few laps I had to stop for a long toilet break,, and then I was just done, my body ached ecerywhere while riding like a nana. Jason and Andy lapped me, Andy reckon I didn't have enough coco pops for breakfast..
Ok so now I'm getting lapped by riders I should be following and they are having enough fun they can crack jokes at you.. Yup that's a bad day alright.
Each pit stop was longer every lap doubled the fatigue..
But my friends put the life on hold to help me out for the wknd, this was the most painful part of the ride. Not meeting my friends expectations and getting nowhere near mine.. I survived the whole winter without getting, only to fall ill to my favourite race of the year..
5.5hrs in, I pull the pin.
My health being more important. I ended up having to teach 9spin class in 6days following the race.
So the confidence has taken a major blow... Do I enter the Scott 24hr off the back of that? It's $200... Will I make the distance.
I've done 24s before.. Can I still do them? Do I have the fitness.?
I just don't know anymore... Weeks are disappearing so fast with little amount of training, I just love to race.. But there is nothing in the summer to race, I finish uni at the start of November.
I just don't feel I'm fast enough to be a contender.
Just chops.. Lost.
Thursday, August 9, 2012
Back on the farm
The sydney 12hr is just one comfy sleep and one chilly sleep away.
A race I'm always pumped for since the epic battle of 2009, with dreggsy. As MC crafty puts it " mountain bike folklore" I'm sure he will want to share the story again on the day, goose bump stuff if you were there on the day at yellowmundie. 2010 took the race to the farm, not ridden since the NZO 24hr rockytrail did what they do best and create an event out of pure passion. Loved the track back then and I was not going to miss the chance, to race on a track that is like no other, and that rewards a consistent rider. Being at the back end of winter I found its a perfect time for me to race, as I've spent a lot of time spin classes while other people don't train so to finish 2nd to Jason English was an honor.
2010 had all the hype of 24hr SOLO WORLDS in October people were keen to test their legs, also on the line was the very special CROC TROPHY ticket, it was a very stressful race with so much pressure on and I felt like I was on a media ban and unable to get time splits to other competitors, after 12hrs of riding and banter from bellchambers the race was done and the ticket was mine.
2011- Could I make it 3years in a row on the podium? Jason is back andy hall turns up, Bellchambers to, beardy as ever. I've brought a pit crew that has never seen a mtb race before. So happy to have the husband and wife team of Heath & Cara to support me again this year.
It was another usual Enduro race with English lapping us all a few hours in. I got to ride my last lap with Andy which was nice as we had our meet and greet while riding our lines one last time. I had a bad case of dizzyness AKA 'I'm really not feeling well andy-'crash' unable to even see straight on the 4wd trail to the end of the valley was not very fun. But he helped me around the track to the end, where we finally get to soak up the atmosphere. Jase 1st Andy 2nd Chops 3rd. 240km.
So here we go again until 1pm today I was not a certain starter with bike issues and race nutrition had also not arrived, SCV imports put everything back on track.
I'm feeling under trained, thanks uni, underprepared not focused and uncomfortable with my bike setup.
My longest race since the convict was a rockytrail 4hr.. For a 12hr a lot has to be right or very little not wrong thats for sure. My TurnerFlux will last that's been proven, not sure about the stuff hanging off it, I do hope I'll annoy some people with my ChrisKing hubs Buuzzzzzzzzz.......
Like I was saying at the start, two more sleeps a great bunch of people want to see me do well, a crafty MC CRAFT a whopping bombfire. And Jason English there again.
I hope your going to the ROCKYTRAIL at Dargle farm, I have front row seats.
C'MON LEGS!!!!!!
A race I'm always pumped for since the epic battle of 2009, with dreggsy. As MC crafty puts it " mountain bike folklore" I'm sure he will want to share the story again on the day, goose bump stuff if you were there on the day at yellowmundie. 2010 took the race to the farm, not ridden since the NZO 24hr rockytrail did what they do best and create an event out of pure passion. Loved the track back then and I was not going to miss the chance, to race on a track that is like no other, and that rewards a consistent rider. Being at the back end of winter I found its a perfect time for me to race, as I've spent a lot of time spin classes while other people don't train so to finish 2nd to Jason English was an honor.
2010 had all the hype of 24hr SOLO WORLDS in October people were keen to test their legs, also on the line was the very special CROC TROPHY ticket, it was a very stressful race with so much pressure on and I felt like I was on a media ban and unable to get time splits to other competitors, after 12hrs of riding and banter from bellchambers the race was done and the ticket was mine.
2011- Could I make it 3years in a row on the podium? Jason is back andy hall turns up, Bellchambers to, beardy as ever. I've brought a pit crew that has never seen a mtb race before. So happy to have the husband and wife team of Heath & Cara to support me again this year.
It was another usual Enduro race with English lapping us all a few hours in. I got to ride my last lap with Andy which was nice as we had our meet and greet while riding our lines one last time. I had a bad case of dizzyness AKA 'I'm really not feeling well andy-'crash' unable to even see straight on the 4wd trail to the end of the valley was not very fun. But he helped me around the track to the end, where we finally get to soak up the atmosphere. Jase 1st Andy 2nd Chops 3rd. 240km.
So here we go again until 1pm today I was not a certain starter with bike issues and race nutrition had also not arrived, SCV imports put everything back on track.
I'm feeling under trained, thanks uni, underprepared not focused and uncomfortable with my bike setup.
My longest race since the convict was a rockytrail 4hr.. For a 12hr a lot has to be right or very little not wrong thats for sure. My TurnerFlux will last that's been proven, not sure about the stuff hanging off it, I do hope I'll annoy some people with my ChrisKing hubs Buuzzzzzzzzz.......
Like I was saying at the start, two more sleeps a great bunch of people want to see me do well, a crafty MC CRAFT a whopping bombfire. And Jason English there again.
I hope your going to the ROCKYTRAIL at Dargle farm, I have front row seats.
C'MON LEGS!!!!!!
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
3hr Enduro at OURIMBAH
Posting from the Athlete lounge at NSWIS.. :)
Sundays race was the latest round of our cross country series. I grab a lift out to the race by james wilson, we arrived with enough to chillout have a chat with wayne gibson, these guys are racing a 12hr in a 2man soon so i was keen to see how they would push each other around ourimbah and it also meant good company on the trails,
My warm up just consisted of the trails to the centre dirt road, as this is very techinical and you can end your race in the 1st km. along the dirt road and up the hill back to the start line. with a 5min call for the all riders to the start line.. 3min call and still no one moves.. so i head over to line up first. with just 2 other A grade riders turning it flattened my mojo. Through the race briefing and the count down was on. 3 2 1 pedal.
Still no mojo.. 3 riders 3hrs no prizes..!!!!!!
So i sit on max's wheel for company and just follow his pace and watch his daredevil lines and catch him on the climbs.. we finish the first lap never being to uncomfortable and timing was elated to see him leading with the crowd questioning each other on what i was doing. Right well the legs are warmed up now, i let him set the pace to the centre fireroad i come along side max at the bottom of the climb for a little chat, muttered some words like have a good day or ride and set to work on the climb and pushing my heart rate to where i can hear myself breathing heavy. I was there to win, but not much work was required, but then thought what if i have a silly mechanical or better yet who can i lap today..
Yes sweet ive found my mojo and i get to thrashing the course and really having some fun smoothing out ourimbah in which takes i think quite alot of practice around that course, i was slamming a gel down a lap and trying to keep the TORQ fuel up so the fun levels stayed high,Timing in formed me that my first 3 laps took 1hr 22min.. I pick up a bottle on my way through, thoughts of doing 7laps has turned to reality lets go to legs, ripping around on my 4th lap i pass wayne on jelly leg climb and get james in the graveyard.
Now its lap 5 totally still having fun, hitting the descents hard because my turner flux just turns bumps to butter..Towards the end of the lap i have to stop and add air to my rear tyre.
LAP 6 and things are starting to hurt a bit now all those punchy climbs are crested a bit slower, after the roller coaster my rear wheel has begun to make a strange tingy noise..over redbelly rock and up the climb out the back where i stop to check for broken spokes.. nope not them.. Through the graveyard i determine its something to do with my brakes, the noise would go away when i applied the brakes but they didnt feel very good either, once out of the graveyard i could look down to my rear rotor. i could see the BOLTS HANGING OUT...oh geez all 3 of them had worked loose. i limped it back to timing, i pick up my torq tool then roll to timing, with about 10mins before the 3hr mark.i take wheel out the skewer off then realise there allenkey bolts.. i run to get one fix it run back put wheel in and with 2nd place may come in before the 3hr mark i went and hit the 7th lap. Happy to come home with the only rider doing 7laps. good times.
I pulled up quite sore in my lower back again, this is worrying me and looking at the variables to have it sorted by my next race.
just CHOPS :)
Sundays race was the latest round of our cross country series. I grab a lift out to the race by james wilson, we arrived with enough to chillout have a chat with wayne gibson, these guys are racing a 12hr in a 2man soon so i was keen to see how they would push each other around ourimbah and it also meant good company on the trails,
My warm up just consisted of the trails to the centre dirt road, as this is very techinical and you can end your race in the 1st km. along the dirt road and up the hill back to the start line. with a 5min call for the all riders to the start line.. 3min call and still no one moves.. so i head over to line up first. with just 2 other A grade riders turning it flattened my mojo. Through the race briefing and the count down was on. 3 2 1 pedal.
Still no mojo.. 3 riders 3hrs no prizes..!!!!!!
So i sit on max's wheel for company and just follow his pace and watch his daredevil lines and catch him on the climbs.. we finish the first lap never being to uncomfortable and timing was elated to see him leading with the crowd questioning each other on what i was doing. Right well the legs are warmed up now, i let him set the pace to the centre fireroad i come along side max at the bottom of the climb for a little chat, muttered some words like have a good day or ride and set to work on the climb and pushing my heart rate to where i can hear myself breathing heavy. I was there to win, but not much work was required, but then thought what if i have a silly mechanical or better yet who can i lap today..
Yes sweet ive found my mojo and i get to thrashing the course and really having some fun smoothing out ourimbah in which takes i think quite alot of practice around that course, i was slamming a gel down a lap and trying to keep the TORQ fuel up so the fun levels stayed high,Timing in formed me that my first 3 laps took 1hr 22min.. I pick up a bottle on my way through, thoughts of doing 7laps has turned to reality lets go to legs, ripping around on my 4th lap i pass wayne on jelly leg climb and get james in the graveyard.
Now its lap 5 totally still having fun, hitting the descents hard because my turner flux just turns bumps to butter..Towards the end of the lap i have to stop and add air to my rear tyre.
LAP 6 and things are starting to hurt a bit now all those punchy climbs are crested a bit slower, after the roller coaster my rear wheel has begun to make a strange tingy noise..over redbelly rock and up the climb out the back where i stop to check for broken spokes.. nope not them.. Through the graveyard i determine its something to do with my brakes, the noise would go away when i applied the brakes but they didnt feel very good either, once out of the graveyard i could look down to my rear rotor. i could see the BOLTS HANGING OUT...oh geez all 3 of them had worked loose. i limped it back to timing, i pick up my torq tool then roll to timing, with about 10mins before the 3hr mark.i take wheel out the skewer off then realise there allenkey bolts.. i run to get one fix it run back put wheel in and with 2nd place may come in before the 3hr mark i went and hit the 7th lap. Happy to come home with the only rider doing 7laps. good times.
I pulled up quite sore in my lower back again, this is worrying me and looking at the variables to have it sorted by my next race.
just CHOPS :)
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
A Day in the life of being an Instructor
Here comes my experience of my typical Tuesday.
The alarm sounds at 530am. The dredded noise never fills me with energy, its cold my bed is warm and im tired from well the TDF or just waking up. I tend to lay in until this can be done no longer. And thats when i spring into action. Im out the door with bag packed, something i never do the night before, as i cant remember what i pack so i need to do this as i go. The gym is conviently within walking distance nowdays but have spent the last few years cycling 10-15min there. On the walk up i go through my plan for the class and how i want it delivered and the extra cues i can find to inspire people to go that little bit harder.
Walking into the gym its all smiles and down to business, To perform to the high standard i expect from myself it usually comes with a routine that is very much the same for each class. So in the less then 15mins i get to get ready all this must be done, I feel at times i come across as guarded and hard to approach, but i feel i have a show to perform and your even getting ready infront of everyone..
I dont wish to feel overly relaxed before a class as i feel this will have my standard drop, for example i cant stand walking into a class with the instructor sitting on the stage mooching about, yup we all gotta put our shoes on, but im sorting my bike set up, getting my legs warm, mics ready.. Its the most uneasy time for me, those awkward minutes while im on my bike waiting for the clock to start, finding my zone so i can perform, not just me but my legs also. Surely u cant just wonder about a room and talk to everyone and then realise why your there oh "oops sorry everyone we better start eh??" I feel my classes come with a certain amout of seriousness and yes this can put some people off. But how much of a result are you gona get from mucking around??? Im here to get the most out of you.
The class had 22 this morning which is a bit quite, but its winter and with a TDF cycle challenge on at the moment its moving popularity around to other classes, As the challenge is 21classes in 23 days.
The class went well and with the new RIDE programme from www.indoorcycling.com.au everyone is challenged with just enough recoverys to get by. Its not the most responsive class but at 615am its all about getting the job and i have a very regular strong crew that perform at there best each tuesday morning and they leave smashed but satisfied.
After each class im mostly found in the stretch area on the foam roller. So just a quick session and then back home for breakfast and TDF highlights.
930boxing comes around real fast and im back at the gym with another game plan buzzing through my mind, i go through pre class routine but only to find that 3 people have shown up. you can spend all day looking for excuses, but whats the point... i know i deliver a challenging class with lots of variety. but with just 3 other guys to train with today. i stepped up and delivered a arm throbbing workout. based more on upper body strength and endurance it was a real battle, The tuesday class is usually a mums class so normaly lots of leg work is involved, but in the time ive had this class, from a strength perspective i have taken them from struggling with 10pushup to them achieving 100plus in a class, but happy to do them is the key element.
At erina FF when they know they cant do something they just dont wana try, but push them gently through a challenge and they build their confidence, Once they have that, Their unstoppable. LOVE IT..
The class was alot of hard work and no one left not feeling it especially the 120 military situps at the end, but all feeling energised. Big groups are great but with smaller groups you can experiment more and have more variety.
Hunted food down straight after this class and a recovery shake as well. and back home i go. to eat for the next couple of hrs and just chill out. More time on the foam roller as my glutes had begun to ache, Tight glutes is a constant battle with me, they then affect my ITB which then affects my knee and a great loss of power in the pedal stroke. so im sitting on the couch extremely uncomfortable. When my mate nick sends me a message id been waiting all day for RIDE???? I quickly get my mtb mojo on and im out the door and stomping on pedals up the road.. FREEDOM. within minutes im the most comfortable ive been all day.
We meet up at bellbird park and hit kinny mtn straight on and i felt real strong all the way to the lookout. Its a must stop every trip on the mountain. So i let nick know the game plan and off we go. but before the agony of central coast hills we get to bomb it down glassons trail with the track being so grippy we push the limits till we scare the shit out of ourselves.
Where crusing down empirebay drive on the tarmac just pacing along nicely on the flat road, Wards hill is close, i wait for nick to catch up so we can hit the climb together. I check with him if its his first time climbing it. "yup" i laugh with a hint of compassion of how much its gooing to suck for him and off i go..Trying to achieve the whole climb in the saddle except for the hairpins.. That might explain tightness behind the knee today.. my saddle feels just a tad high. great on the flat roads but pushing the extension of my leg just that little bit to much.It was ok for the race on saturday for the first couple of hrs, it can be difficult to determine whats causing fatigue 4hrs into a race. Oh the crappy thoughts while training, your mind is just to free to wonder into the worry box.
Once over the climb we continue up to scenic highway and into the singletrack that takes us along the cliff trail. very rightly named.. im not sure how far down it is, but i know of people who abseil off it. and well im so not going to look over the edge while cycling beside it, you ride along the edge of it about 6times i reckon and some corners meet at the edge as well. full focus here... We pop out of all that sniggle (winding singletrack) We have been going for over an hour now. its 430 and its a race to be the sunset home. so we take off down big bertha in a hurry.. caution on the waterbars as crashing can ruin a good day. ripping up the trails and launching off waterbars on the flat roads all the way back to kincumber.
Rolling up to kinny mtn we both let out a sigh drop our heads at the climb that is the only way home. sucking up lots of air as we raise our heads we set to work on the climb and crest the top in one piece, with the light fading fast and if it goes away it means no single track descent. So we push on challenging each other across the top and through the sand. I hit the dsecent infront of nick and try to pick the right lines in semi darkness not quite getting it all right, but no damage to myself so thats all that matters. A quick highfive at the junction and i head for home.
I fly through the shower as i was pretty muddy, give the bike a wash.. well it was the other way around. Priorities!!
Look for food as the right went for close to 2hrs and i was coming down off the buzz real fast. Eating a torq bar on my way to the gym feeling very sleepy. To which kris noticed the second i meet her in the stretch area. chatting away before i realise the time and set to find my pre-race i mean class zone..
Now to get into the room following a constantly late running 530 class is annoying but anyways i cant let it show as any mood i carry the class will follow good or bad.. Lots of my favourite riders where there. Kris,wayne,james,sally,alli,christel,brian and thats just the front row..The army is 22 strong and off into battle we go. we all spend the first song adjusting to going for our ride, i notice everyone was very busy thinking about something, its usually time for people to reflect on there day, I asked for some input on what people wanted play and the only request i got was Ashley asking for tiesto.. So i setup the ride to HARD and we got stuck into it,, quite a noisey bunch which i really like.
I tried to keep everyone from maxing out in the first hillclimb, as Rammstein took the reins in track 4. this tested the limits of everyones legs and the soundsystem.
track 5 was over real quick and track 6 (everyones fear) was here.. before the 1st of 2rounds of effort i had everyone say sorry to there legs... At full force we hit the TT and 2mins later were all in a very dark place.. a small recovery trying hard to have people keep their legs moving.
Here comes round two.. The meaning of tight arse tuesday.. after 2mins 30,, we are shattered. and i went a bit physco but hey thats how i rise above the pain in my legs.
Track 7. 9mins40. Adagio for strings the one ashley requested.. 3peaks one summit.. splinters from hurtboxes were flying everywhere.. A massive effort was put in every rider. its great to see people reach there limit and stop only for me to then remind them on what i want. and they get back on the pedals..
So we all hobble out of the spin room and call it a day.. i make my way to the stretch area for the obvious floating high on life but hammered from a huge day.
The day finishes with a yummy stirfry and a attempt to get to bed early with the legs wrapped in compression..
loving life.
Thanks for reading all the way.
just chops :)
The alarm sounds at 530am. The dredded noise never fills me with energy, its cold my bed is warm and im tired from well the TDF or just waking up. I tend to lay in until this can be done no longer. And thats when i spring into action. Im out the door with bag packed, something i never do the night before, as i cant remember what i pack so i need to do this as i go. The gym is conviently within walking distance nowdays but have spent the last few years cycling 10-15min there. On the walk up i go through my plan for the class and how i want it delivered and the extra cues i can find to inspire people to go that little bit harder.
Walking into the gym its all smiles and down to business, To perform to the high standard i expect from myself it usually comes with a routine that is very much the same for each class. So in the less then 15mins i get to get ready all this must be done, I feel at times i come across as guarded and hard to approach, but i feel i have a show to perform and your even getting ready infront of everyone..
I dont wish to feel overly relaxed before a class as i feel this will have my standard drop, for example i cant stand walking into a class with the instructor sitting on the stage mooching about, yup we all gotta put our shoes on, but im sorting my bike set up, getting my legs warm, mics ready.. Its the most uneasy time for me, those awkward minutes while im on my bike waiting for the clock to start, finding my zone so i can perform, not just me but my legs also. Surely u cant just wonder about a room and talk to everyone and then realise why your there oh "oops sorry everyone we better start eh??" I feel my classes come with a certain amout of seriousness and yes this can put some people off. But how much of a result are you gona get from mucking around??? Im here to get the most out of you.
The class had 22 this morning which is a bit quite, but its winter and with a TDF cycle challenge on at the moment its moving popularity around to other classes, As the challenge is 21classes in 23 days.
The class went well and with the new RIDE programme from www.indoorcycling.com.au everyone is challenged with just enough recoverys to get by. Its not the most responsive class but at 615am its all about getting the job and i have a very regular strong crew that perform at there best each tuesday morning and they leave smashed but satisfied.
After each class im mostly found in the stretch area on the foam roller. So just a quick session and then back home for breakfast and TDF highlights.
930boxing comes around real fast and im back at the gym with another game plan buzzing through my mind, i go through pre class routine but only to find that 3 people have shown up. you can spend all day looking for excuses, but whats the point... i know i deliver a challenging class with lots of variety. but with just 3 other guys to train with today. i stepped up and delivered a arm throbbing workout. based more on upper body strength and endurance it was a real battle, The tuesday class is usually a mums class so normaly lots of leg work is involved, but in the time ive had this class, from a strength perspective i have taken them from struggling with 10pushup to them achieving 100plus in a class, but happy to do them is the key element.
At erina FF when they know they cant do something they just dont wana try, but push them gently through a challenge and they build their confidence, Once they have that, Their unstoppable. LOVE IT..
The class was alot of hard work and no one left not feeling it especially the 120 military situps at the end, but all feeling energised. Big groups are great but with smaller groups you can experiment more and have more variety.
Hunted food down straight after this class and a recovery shake as well. and back home i go. to eat for the next couple of hrs and just chill out. More time on the foam roller as my glutes had begun to ache, Tight glutes is a constant battle with me, they then affect my ITB which then affects my knee and a great loss of power in the pedal stroke. so im sitting on the couch extremely uncomfortable. When my mate nick sends me a message id been waiting all day for RIDE???? I quickly get my mtb mojo on and im out the door and stomping on pedals up the road.. FREEDOM. within minutes im the most comfortable ive been all day.
We meet up at bellbird park and hit kinny mtn straight on and i felt real strong all the way to the lookout. Its a must stop every trip on the mountain. So i let nick know the game plan and off we go. but before the agony of central coast hills we get to bomb it down glassons trail with the track being so grippy we push the limits till we scare the shit out of ourselves.
Where crusing down empirebay drive on the tarmac just pacing along nicely on the flat road, Wards hill is close, i wait for nick to catch up so we can hit the climb together. I check with him if its his first time climbing it. "yup" i laugh with a hint of compassion of how much its gooing to suck for him and off i go..Trying to achieve the whole climb in the saddle except for the hairpins.. That might explain tightness behind the knee today.. my saddle feels just a tad high. great on the flat roads but pushing the extension of my leg just that little bit to much.It was ok for the race on saturday for the first couple of hrs, it can be difficult to determine whats causing fatigue 4hrs into a race. Oh the crappy thoughts while training, your mind is just to free to wonder into the worry box.
Once over the climb we continue up to scenic highway and into the singletrack that takes us along the cliff trail. very rightly named.. im not sure how far down it is, but i know of people who abseil off it. and well im so not going to look over the edge while cycling beside it, you ride along the edge of it about 6times i reckon and some corners meet at the edge as well. full focus here... We pop out of all that sniggle (winding singletrack) We have been going for over an hour now. its 430 and its a race to be the sunset home. so we take off down big bertha in a hurry.. caution on the waterbars as crashing can ruin a good day. ripping up the trails and launching off waterbars on the flat roads all the way back to kincumber.
Rolling up to kinny mtn we both let out a sigh drop our heads at the climb that is the only way home. sucking up lots of air as we raise our heads we set to work on the climb and crest the top in one piece, with the light fading fast and if it goes away it means no single track descent. So we push on challenging each other across the top and through the sand. I hit the dsecent infront of nick and try to pick the right lines in semi darkness not quite getting it all right, but no damage to myself so thats all that matters. A quick highfive at the junction and i head for home.
I fly through the shower as i was pretty muddy, give the bike a wash.. well it was the other way around. Priorities!!
Look for food as the right went for close to 2hrs and i was coming down off the buzz real fast. Eating a torq bar on my way to the gym feeling very sleepy. To which kris noticed the second i meet her in the stretch area. chatting away before i realise the time and set to find my pre-race i mean class zone..
Now to get into the room following a constantly late running 530 class is annoying but anyways i cant let it show as any mood i carry the class will follow good or bad.. Lots of my favourite riders where there. Kris,wayne,james,sally,alli,christel,brian and thats just the front row..The army is 22 strong and off into battle we go. we all spend the first song adjusting to going for our ride, i notice everyone was very busy thinking about something, its usually time for people to reflect on there day, I asked for some input on what people wanted play and the only request i got was Ashley asking for tiesto.. So i setup the ride to HARD and we got stuck into it,, quite a noisey bunch which i really like.
I tried to keep everyone from maxing out in the first hillclimb, as Rammstein took the reins in track 4. this tested the limits of everyones legs and the soundsystem.
track 5 was over real quick and track 6 (everyones fear) was here.. before the 1st of 2rounds of effort i had everyone say sorry to there legs... At full force we hit the TT and 2mins later were all in a very dark place.. a small recovery trying hard to have people keep their legs moving.
Here comes round two.. The meaning of tight arse tuesday.. after 2mins 30,, we are shattered. and i went a bit physco but hey thats how i rise above the pain in my legs.
Track 7. 9mins40. Adagio for strings the one ashley requested.. 3peaks one summit.. splinters from hurtboxes were flying everywhere.. A massive effort was put in every rider. its great to see people reach there limit and stop only for me to then remind them on what i want. and they get back on the pedals..
So we all hobble out of the spin room and call it a day.. i make my way to the stretch area for the obvious floating high on life but hammered from a huge day.
The day finishes with a yummy stirfry and a attempt to get to bed early with the legs wrapped in compression..
loving life.
Thanks for reading all the way.
just chops :)
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