Wine Country Century 5/6/2006

[SadieKate]

http://www.srcc.com/

I haven't been able to ride much the last week and I'm deep in the doldrums. Haven't been doing any climbing but I've got a 7 straight days of mtbiking in the middle of April coming up.

Can the bod be ready for a double metric with only 4,500' of climbing? Oh, I'm feeling old (insomnia all night is not recommended).

V, which one are you doing?

I did the metric on the old course back in the late 80s. Be nice to see it again. Off to go count weekends.

[Veronica]

I'll do the 200 K most likely.

V.

[maillotpois]

We did the double metric last year and are doing it again this year. It is a beautiful double metric. Most of the climbing is in the first half - you do the easier side of Coleman Valley Road, which is absolutely gorgeous. The SRCC website is wrong on the elevation for the double metric, though. It was 7300 on my HAC4 which is pretty darned accurate. (It measured Death Ride at 13,000, which I think is more accurate than what they say on the website.) So there's a lot of climbing, but it is over with fairly soon.

I think the metric and century options cut out a lot of the climbing. I know they don't do Coleman. Which is a shame.

SK, I think you should try the double metric. It is just so pretty. (The rest of it is nice, too.) I know it's been tough to get on the bike as much as any of us would like in this weather. But if you pace yourself well, you should be fine.

[SadieKate]

I can't believe I'm still considering this but I really want to do a double metric this year. I have to get in metrics both of the next two weekends to hit this target and the weather and other things are not being considerate.

Don't you love it in this age of technology when they can't get the climbing right? Does the Dble Metric cross paths with the 100 somewhere (or have a figure-8 loop) so I could shorten the ride if I'm not up to it? It's a big help to have the climbing at the beginning.

Thanks, Sarah.

Sarah:p

[maillotpois]

You ought to just give it (the double metric) a shot.

We (DH and friends) rode the DM and DH's sister Kelly rode the regular century (I think. She may have done the single metric, but I don't think so). We started with her, and then split off in Occidental where we (DM only - not century or metric) we over Coleman Valley Rd. to the coast, up through Monte Rio. At that point, we joined up with Kelly again (century course, and were with her up through Dry Creek). I can't remember where she went at the lunch stop at Lake Sonoma, because neither DH nor I rode with her through the last part of the ride. She may have had a shorter route that didn't take her to the lake.

I think you could shorten it even after doing the whole Coleman loop. It is worth doing the Coleman loop because there's no prettier road anywhere (except descending Old Howell Mtn. Rd. in Napa).

So sign up for the DM and see how your day goes.

[SadieKate]

Thanks, knowing that there is a point I can change my mind helps.

I have to get some hills in!!! By this time last year, the girls had talked me into riding Diablo and Placerville stuff several times.

I know, I know. Hills on mtbikes don't phase me. On the road is another story. Now, I'm just working on re-writing the story so they match.

[Veronica]

You can ride with me any weekend SK. :)

V.

[wabisabi]

Looking at this website brought back a memory of what probably was this ride from probably the late 80s--could that be? I recall going with a friend who was a serious rider, and I had my--this is the truth--my old very non fancy "girl's" bike. I was of course younger then, so I managed the first 40 miles (up to lunch) with just sheer strength from winter tele skiing and hiking in the Sierra. I recall that it was really beautiful, especially early the morning, going past the wineries and all of the flowers.

[Bike Goddess]

If I can get the time off, I'm also thinking of doing the double metric. The guys in our club always do that route as they too say the beauty is worth the climb!

SK- if you want to get a metric in this weekend, the Benicia club is starting from the Valley Cafe in Rockville on Saturday morning at 9:00AM. They are going to do the ride to Berryessa via M Corner the reverse of how we did it last year- with an option to do Cantilew on the way back. I think the total distance is something like 60 miles. I'll email you if you want details. Should be a good ride for some not too hard climbs and some good distance.

[Sag 4 Valentine]

Bike Goddess,
Would you send me the information for the Lake Berryessa ride this weekend. I have a tight schedule on Saturday, but would like to try to squeeze this in.
:)

[Sag 4 Valentine]

Sadie Kate,
Are you going to do the Sea Otter in April?

[SadieKate]

Sea Otter? No, I'll be in Moab and environs, Monkey Wrench Gang territory to be exact.

Thanks, Nancy. We haven't quite decided what we want to do and we don't want to end up driving both days.

[kjay]

You're all very seasoned bikers and I am not, but I do ride as much as I can and lately have been doing a lot of spinning - even two hours at a time. I generally ride for about 2 1/2 hours outside, but that's about it. I'm retired so am not a youngun' but you all motivated me and I signed up for the Wine Country 100K in April. Here's where I need some advice. I only have a hybrid (wider wheels) but am keeping my eyes peeled for a used road bike. However, if I can't find one before the ride, do you think I could ride my hybrid? I suppose it would take me longer, but would still appreciate your thoughts about this. Thank you.

[SadieKate]

Sure you can ride a hybrid. You'll just be slower and need to make sure you take care of your hands. You don't have as many postions on flat bars as drop.

Is it wider wheels (as in the rims) or wider tires? You may want to consider getting narrower and higher pressure tires so you'll have less rolling resistance but lots of people do metrics on hybrids.

Make sure you have the date right. It is May 6th, not in April.

[SadieKate]

Looking at this website brought back a memory of what probably was this ride from probably the late 80s--could that be? I recall going with a friend who was a serious rider, and I had my--this is the truth--my old very non fancy "girl's" bike.So, come on down and reminisce!

[kjay]

Good grief. . . yes, SadieKate, I meant to say wider tires, not wheels, and also May, not April. I really appreciate getting this info, and thanks very much!

[SadieKate]

Okey-dokey. WrenchBoy (aka Bubba) and I have paid our money. We're in. I actually got on the trainer tonight. Will wonders never cease.:p

[jobob]

I signed up me & LeeBob for the 100 mile

who the heck am I kidding:eek: :o

Oh, good grief !! The Luther Burbank Center has been re-named the Wells Fargo Center ! gag me. aack. ptooey. :p :p

[maillotpois]

Okey-dokey. WrenchBoy (aka Bubba) and I have paid our money. We're in. I actually got on the trainer tonight. Will wonders never cease.:p


Yay!! :D :D :D

[SadieKate]

MP, yay that we signed up or yay that I got on the trainer? :rolleyes:

jobob, I agree on the Wells Fargo thing. What a way to show respect for someone's accomplishments. Now, you go record "I can do it" and put it under your pillow and I have to take my own advice also. This is a big mental step for me. Why is it that I view distance and climbing so differently between a mountain bike and a road bike. There's probably a good psychological study there.

[maillotpois]

MP, yay that we signed up or yay that I got on the trainer? :rolleyes:


Well, both, really!! :D

[cindysue]

I am going to do this one (100m). I am scheduled for restraint training that day, but I'm going to call in sick... I'm probably going to give up that job anyway.

Wanted to do the Grizzly Peak Century this year (May 7th) but I won't get much training in until classes end in mid-May. Hopefully my thesis will be almost done by then too. Guess it depends on how much torture the engineering faculty want to put me through......

[Robbin_G]

I am going to do this one (100m). I am scheduled for restraint training that day, but I'm going to call in sick... I'm probably going to give up that job anyway.

Wanted to do the Grizzly Peak Century this year (May 7th) but I won't get much training in until classes end in mid-May. Hopefully my thesis will be almost done by then too. Guess it depends on how much torture the engineering faculty want to put me through......


Ah...someone who actually wants to work on her thesis. Send my happy vibes. Somehow I ended up in other classes with tons of writing so I've got more than thesis to do. And I'm not sure I care! :D

[cindysue]

Ah...someone who actually wants to work on her thesis. Send my happy vibes.

I'm thinking about that paycheck at the end of the tunnel.......... It's the only thing that motivates me at this point.........

Best to you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[velogirl]

I am scheduled for restraint training that day, but I'm going to call in sick... I'm probably going to give up that job anyway.


Restraint training? Do tell.

[Nanci]

Hey, I used to work at a place that required restraint training. It sucks to work somewhere that doesn't, because no one does it correctly.

Nanci

(I'm speaking of hospital patients- I don't know who CindySue is restraining!)

[Nanci]

You know, I've had horse restraint training, too! I guess there are a lot of things that need restraining.

I am so jealous that you guys live somewhere that has a Wine Country Century, BTW...

Nanci

[Bike Goddess]

Pretty soon we should do a roll call for who's doing what on this ride.

So far:

Sadie Kate and Bubba-- Double Metric
Veronica and Thom- Double Metric?
Bike Goddess-Double Metric
MP-Double Metric??

JoBob and LeeBob- Century
Cindy Sue- Century?
RobbinG- Century

KayJay-Metric

VeloGirl????

Anyone else?

[cindysue]

Restraint training? Do tell.

i've completely hijacked this thread, but - I work as a counselor at Juvenile Hall. I've been there about 5 years now. It can be very rewarding (and also discouraging) working with the kids. Their lives are so different than many of ours. I could go on and on about some of the reasons why those kids are the way they are and do what they do. Their home lives are unimaginable to some , I suspect.

Anyway, I do love trying to bring some stability and discipline to their lives. I will probably take on a big sister role to fill that spot in my heart, but I really need to streamline my schedule (two jobs, full time school, and lunachix right now) after graduation, so I wil be cutting back to one job, while still continuing the lunachix cycling program.

Looking forward to the sanity!

[maillotpois]

yup - I am in for the 200k. it is a great route!

[Veronica]

We're not going to do it. I need to start riding the TT route. And we're spending so much money going to the different doubles and staying overnight two nights. It gets expensive.

V.

[maillotpois]

We're not going to do it. I need to start riding the TT route. And we're spending so much money going to the different doubles and staying overnight two nights. It gets expensive.

V.


Did the Geysers yesterday in combination with Pine Flat, which I have now decided is the toughest climb in CA. After 8 miles of 8 - 10%, there's a mile of flat and then 2 miles of 15+ with a bonus 1/2 mile of 20+%. I hate 20+%.... We just did not need to go that far up Pine Flat. But you should do the Geysers - it's easy to do a little loop from Cloverdale or Healdsburg and it's a good climb. From the top of Geyser Peak, you can see Lake Sonoma in the distance, so during the TT you would have a stunning reminder of how far you have to go.... :eek:

When we do Skaggs in May (5/27) you should come with us. We'll be doing 110 miles of the TT route from Lake Sonoma to the coast and Ft. Ross, etc. I'll also have a friend or two there who've done the TT.

[Veronica]

I've got 5/27 on my calendar. :D I 'm going to try to convince the coach do some SAG for us. Nice to have cold drinks in the middle of a ride.

V.

[maillotpois]

I've got 5/27 on my calendar. :D I 'm going to try to convince the coach do some SAG for us. Nice to have cold drinks in the middle of a ride.

V.

It'll be great to have him, but we'll have plenty of SAG - no worries!!

[wabisabi]

Hey, some of my women riding friends are going down for this, and I am thinking of doing this instead of Chico. Checking to see whether active.com will switch registration for events. Wine country sounds good, and Orr Hot Springs is on the way back!!

[Deanna]

Pretty soon we should do a roll call for who's doing what on this ride.

So far:

Sadie Kate and Bubba-- Double Metric
Veronica and Thom- Double Metric?
Bike Goddess-Double Metric
MP-Double Metric??

JoBob and LeeBob- Century
Cindy Sue- Century?
RobbinG- Century

KayJay-Metric

VeloGirl????

Anyone else?


I'll be a volunteer, most likely at the merchandise sales so stop by and introduce yourself.

[snapdragen]

I'm insane. Off the bike for well over a month, I've signed up for the 100k.:p

snap "dead on the roadside" dragen :D

[jobob]

Although I signed us up for the century (in a spurt of irrational optimism), Mr. LeeBob and I talked it over and at this point we're more likely to opt for the metric instead.

They'd let us switch, wouldn't they ? :confused: Gawd I hope so ...


- jo "survival instinct intact" bob

[snapdragen]

The cost was the same for the metric and the full century, so there shouldn't be a problem.

Good you and LeeBob can wait for me at Chalk Hill, then bungee me to your bikes........:rolleyes:


Although I signed us up for the century (in a spurt of irrational optimism), Mr. LeeBob and I talked it over and at this point we're more likely to opt for the metric instead.

They'd let us switch, wouldn't they ? :confused: Gawd I hope so ...


- jo "survival instinct intact" bob

[jobob]

It's a deal ! :D

[slinkedog]

Oooh... there's a bungee option? Wow! Maybe I could actually do this ride, if not for my schedule!! :)

[Bike Goddess]

More merrier! Hurry Slinkedog- this is a popular ride and it will fill up early! Can you rearrange your schedule per chance?????????

Sorry you won't be with us V, but I totally understand the expense bit. Organized rides are getting very expensive these days if you want to do lots of them! I think it's partially cost of food, registration fees, permit costs, rest stop costs that are partially to blame. (Santa Rosa Club explains this on their site.)

[SadieKate]

I'm starting to obsess about whether I'm ready for this so I decided to look to see who might be there to share my pain

Checking the Bikejournal site, we have:
cindysue
jobob
live2bike
maillotpois
SadieKate
WrenchBoy (aka Bubba)

From piecing together this conversation,
Snapdragen
Kjay
Bike Goddess
Mr LeeBob
Mr. MaillotPois

VIVV (Very Important Venerable Volunteer)
Deanna

Anyone have a course elevation profile? MP has provided the 200k course map and lots of patient words of wisdom. Now, I'm realizing I really don't know how gnarly the climbs at the beginning are. And how early crack of stupid has to be for the drive over. And . . . :o :p

[Deanna]

I don't know that I've seen an "official" elevation profile, but I can help you piece together the route using the elevation profiles for the area, found at

http://www.srcc.com/cgi_bin/profiles.pl

The early climbs are (in route order) Graton Rd, Coleman Valley (only if you're doing the 200K), Mays Canyon and Green Valley. The last climb is Chalk Hill, which isn't all that bad, but it is at the very end.

[Deanna]

Did the Geysers yesterday in combination with Pine Flat, which I have now decided is the toughest climb in CA. After 8 miles of 8 - 10%, there's a mile of flat and then 2 miles of 15+ with a bonus 1/2 mile of 20+%. I hate 20+%.... We just did not need to go that far up Pine Flat. But you should do the Geysers - it's easy to do a little loop from Cloverdale or Healdsburg and it's a good climb. From the top of Geyser Peak, you can see Lake Sonoma in the distance, so during the TT you would have a stunning reminder of how far you have to go.... :eek:

When we do Skaggs in May (5/27) you should come with us. We'll be doing 110 miles of the TT route from Lake Sonoma to the coast and Ft. Ross, etc. I'll also have a friend or two there who've done the TT.


I'm in awe of anybody who makes it to the top of Pine Flat. I usually go only to the second pumping station at the end of the flats, and the more standard club route ends at the start of the flats. Levi Leipheimer trains up this climb, and he does repeats!

[SadieKate]

Is the Geysers on this route?

[SadieKate]

Thanks, Deanna. As long as Geysers isn't on the route it looks like it is the cumulative climbs which make it tough but that there aren't any really nasty ones. Or is that just wishful thinking?

MP said part of the route may be washed out and need a reroute. Do you know anything?

[maillotpois]

Is the Geysers on this route?

no. no. no.

[SadieKate]

This is a case where thread drift is a bad thing. Mention of the Geysers caused a momentary disturbance in the postive force thing I've got going right now.

Yellow's behind the scenes telling me I can do it; MP is back there coaching. I'm trying to keep the PMA vibes going.

Let's not talk about the Geysers in this thread, shall we? :D I'm willing to try riding the Geysers but just not on my first double metric with no hills under my legs. OK?

[maillotpois]

Deanna - I meant the 128 bridge in Geyserville - is it still closed?

[Deanna]

NO the Geysers is not on this route. The re-route is pretty minor and it is because of the Geyserville Bridge being washed out on 128(they don't expect to fix it until the end of the year). If anything, it will make the route shorter by about 2 miles.

There really aren't any nasty climbs, the toughest on the 200K will be Coleman Valley, but the views when you get to the top will be more than worth it. I hear there are some major potholes on that road now--I plan on riding it this weekend so I can confirm if it's anything to watch for on the downhill.

[SadieKate]

Wonderful. I look forward to the report.

In about 1988 (or 1989?) hubby and I rode the metric on our new tandem. Suffice it to say that I've never gone back because of the potholes. So where have our tax dollars gone in all these years?

[maillotpois]

parts of the route were on my 600k route Sunday. potholes fairly consistent at Westside/Dry Creek w/some new ones on River. the Coleman climb is so much better the direction wcc will do it (as opposed to the Mt. Tam double) - and the view is amazing.

[cindysue]

And how early crack of stupid has to be for the drive over. And . . . :o :p

I'm getting up at 4:30 am so I can get ready, get coffee, and meet my friendly carpool so we arrive by 7am. I'm not in great shape but I am still very much looking forward to it!

[SadieKate]

Is that the right term?

Anyway, need to drive from Davis, be checked and on my bike at 6 am. Not feeling sorry for you, Miss CindySue.:p

[kjay]

It's discouraging to hear there are pot holes, but I should know better than to think there wouldn't be any. Our roads are not in very good shape. I was going to get a new road bike for this ride, but now I'll just ride my old hybrid even if it takes me all day to finish. I signed up for the metric century, but may back up to the 35er. As the time draws nearer, I get wimpier. :(

[yellow]

I decided to look to see who might be there to share my pain
I'll be with you in spirit. I wish I could be there in body! That would be a great way to spend my birthday weekend! My friend Rod (you know HIM) says that this is the purtiest ride he's ever done (the double metric version). You have to get up there and take a picture for me!

[SadieKate]

Yes, ma'am! Is HotRod going to be there?

[cindysue]

be checked and on my bike at 6 am.

you go girl!

[cindysue]

Is that the right term?

from merriam-webster (so, it's not Oxford)

"one-upmanship"

Pronunciation: "w&n-'&p-m&n-"ship

Variant(s): also one-ups·man·ship /-'&ps-m&n-/

Function: noun

: the art or practice of outdoing or keeping one jump ahead of a friend or competitor <engaged in a round of verbal one-upmanship>

[SadieKate]

So, you can spell better than I can. Niener-niener.:p

[bikerz]

from merriam-webster (so, it's not Oxford)
"one-upmanship"
Pronunciation: "w&n-'&p-m&n-"ship
Variant(s): also one-ups·man·ship /-'&ps-m&n-/
Function: noun
: the art or practice of outdoing or keeping one jump ahead of a friend or competitor <engaged in a round of verbal one-upmanship>

CindySue - Tsk Tsk Tsk! Looking things up in the dictionary may LOOK like thesis work to the casual observer, but it does not fool us! Back to work, young lady! :D

[SadieKate]

BikerZ - good one!

[cindysue]

CindySue - Tsk Tsk Tsk! Looking things up in the dictionary may LOOK like thesis work to the casual observer, but it does not fool us! Back to work, young lady! :D

I know, I know. I need to shut myself in a room with no internet to distract me ...........

[Bike Goddess]

We'll (the Benicia Bike Club) probably get there around 6:30ish. Some of us will be wearing argyle socks (red and yellow) so you can't miss us. That is, of course, if it's cold that morning. So if you see those socks be sure to say something! Most of us will be doing the double metric. I'll see how I feel at the lunch break as to whether I'll do the last loop off the century to get those extra miles in!

Looking forward to this ride. :) :) :) :)

[SadieKate]

Is it some plan hatched during happy hour?

Registration has closed. OK. Some reason why all the links to ride day info have been removed? Fortunately, I printed off some of the stuff but not the map to the Luther Burbank Center. So, now I have to go off and google this. Not a big deal, but I hope there isn't some other tidbit of info I'm missing.

[Deanna]

I've emailed our webmaster and hope to have a link or the info back up soon. Let me know if you need info, I may have it in my head.

[SadieKate]

Deanna? MP?

Do I have the right place?

DELETING MY LINK SO I DON'T CONFOOZE ANYONE.

Stuff I printed out says check-in 6-7 am. Wish I could check in the night before but the Wonder Poodle hates being abandoned all night.

[SadieKate]

Thanks, Deana. I understand removing all links to registration but not to the info.

[Deanna]

Deanna? MP?

Do I have the right place?

http://www.google.com/maps?hl=en&lr=&q=luther+burbank+center&near=Santa+Rosa,+CA&radius=0.0&cid=38440556,-122713333,13816357337285721274&li=lmd&z=14&t=m

Stuff I printed out says check-in 6-7 am. Wish I could check in the night before but the Wonder Poodle hates being abandoned all night.


No!! I'm not even sure what that is. At first I thought it was Luther Burbank's home, but no. It's now called the Wells Fargo Performing Arts Center (change last month) and it's MUCH easier to get to:

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&q=50+Mark+West+Springs+Rd,+Santa+Rosa,+CA&om=1

If my link doesn't work, the address is 50 Mark West Springs Rd.

[Bike Goddess]

Mark Springs Road is pretty easy to find. Also, there will be lots of bikes on cars to follow! The trick is to go all the way around the lot to the back. Less walk later on!

The center will be on your right not far from 101 if I remember correctly.

[SadieKate]

Thanks, Deanna.

Thanks, Nancy, but I'm not going to depend on being able to follow bikes on cars at 5:30 am. I'm going to be lucky if I'm able to follow anything.:o

[kjay]

I'm a sometimes rider (a frequent spinner, tho) and am wondering if you think it's okay to ride a new road bike in the Wine Country metric. I will have had the bike for about six days prior. Do you think that's enough time to get used to a new bike? I would ride it about 2 hours a day prior to the Santa Rosa ride. Thanks in advance.

[jobob]

What kind of bike have you been riding before this? Are you going, say, from an upright hybrid to a road bike?

How fit are you? Have you ever ridden a metric century before? What distance are you comfortable riding right now?

Do you have every reason to believe that this bike is going to fit you reasonably well from the onset, so that only minimal adjustments will be necessary to dial in the fit? Did you have someone who really knows what they are doing set up your bike for you? Do you know your body well enough to know what kind of adjustments you will need to make it work for you over a 62 mile distance? Have you ever ridden on the saddle that is coming with this new bike?

In a word, there's no simple answer.

A lot of it hinges on how well the bike fits you, how comfortable the saddle is for you, and how comfortable you are with riding and handling the bike. If all those factors are OK, then you probably could do the metric just fine on the new bike.

[kjay]

Jobob, I must say you have simplified my decision-making process, and I thank you! One read-through of your questions and comments confirmed my hunch that I had better ride my current upright hybrid. The most I've ridden is 40 miles, and I currently am comfortable with 20. You have helped me so much, and I thank you for your thoughtful response. I will now concentrate on getting the 'perfect' bike in time for a week-long ride in early August (CANDISC). I LOVE this board!

[jobob]

No prob. When I first got my road bike after riding a hybrid, it took me a while to get used to it - the brakes weren't where I was used to having them, the shifting was completely different, and the position felt very odd and insecure to me at first.

I was recounting today on our ride on the Alameda Creek trail about how I was so unsteady when I first started riding a road bike that one time I was riding along that trail and got too close to the edge of the pavement, froze up, and rolled down the side of the levee, and there was nothing I could do about it besides let out an ear-piercing shreek. Luckily I didn't run into anything and I managed to slow down before crashing into a fence. Back then I was terrified and sooo embarassed, but it's pretty funny now.

Hopefully you're not as klutzy as I am, but still, it might take you a bit to get used to handling the bike, and in a large ride like the Wine Country you'll need good control.

You'll get the hang of it, I promise. Probably quicker than I did. :D

[snapdragen]

sheesh. I'm still feeling beat up after the little adveture we had Saturday. A good kind of beat up, but beat up none the less! I'm seriously thinking I'm only going to do the 35 mile option. Baby steps.....:rolleyes:

[SadieKate]

OK, I've got my cheering section going. Let's start one for snap. Take it easy this week. Rest up them legs and go for it. You've done some longer rides than 35 this year, right? Slow and easy and scenic. From the description, the climbing on the 65 route sounds about like the Cindy but far prettier.

[maillotpois]

And drink a ton of water. It is finally starting to get warm, so give your legs and bod some water to hydrate from your ride this weekend.

Good news about WCC is all the routes seem like they're pretty and you may well be able to start the metric and then do a bail out and make a shorter route - probably Deanna would know better, since she's "connected" and I don't know the 35/metric routes too well. But Iknow the 200k can easily be cut shorter, so I imagine the same is true for the others.

Go for it!! We finally have NICE weather so you will want to take advantage of it!!!

[cindysue]

quick note to let y'all know that I will end up doing the metric instead of the full century. No time on the bike in the last couple weeks due to double thesis duty and my only riding day spent trying to recover my files (my computer crashed and burned and is no longer useable - what timing, huh?)

see ya saturday!

[SadieKate]

OMG! I hope you had everything backed up!


p.s. limited posting until June.... Anyone else think this is funny? :rolleyes:

[snapdragen]

You've done some longer rides than 35 this year, right?


Not much more.......:o

I'll drag my trusty Krebs map with me...... **runs off to see if she's got a map to cover this route**

[snapdragen]

/geek on

cindy - were you able to rescue any of your files? Do you know what died? Can the hard drive be pulled and hooked up to another box?

/geek off



quick note to let y'all know that I will end up doing the metric instead of the full century. No time on the bike in the last couple weeks due to double thesis duty and my only riding day spent trying to recover my files (my computer crashed and burned and is no longer useable - what timing, huh?)

see ya saturday!

[Deanna]

Wonderful. I look forward to the report.

In about 1988 (or 1989?) hubby and I rode the metric on our new tandem. Suffice it to say that I've never gone back because of the potholes. So where have our tax dollars gone in all these years?


Well, the weather called for a coast socked in with fog, so I re-routed to the north part of the county. I've ridden a few of the roads that will be on the route, and while there are some bad potholes, overall it's not nearly as bad as I was expecting. If the scotch broom is still in bloom next Sunday, the end of Chalk Hill will be real treat--it smelled beautiful for miles.

[Veronica]

Oh man, the ride is closed. :rolleyes: I was thinking that since I'm not going to Central Coast, I could do this. Oh well. You snooze, you lose.

V.

[maillotpois]

Oh man, the ride is closed. :rolleyes: I was thinking that since I'm not going to Central Coast, I could do this. Oh well. You snooze, you lose.

V.

Bummer!

Hey, you still ought to come to our 5/27 Skaggs ride. Even if you're not doing TT this year, it might be good "recon" for next year. That's what I'm thinking! Also, we've got a great 120 miler planned for June 10. Nice Marin route that will actually be good training for you now that you've decided to do the Mt. Tam Double. Oh - and we're doing our Pine Flat/Geysers ride again June 25...

So many "fun" rides! Come join us!

[Veronica]

I'm still on the fence about Tam. You did see my average speed for DMD right? :rolleyes:

V.

[cindysue]

OMG! I hope you had everything backed up!

I was able to recover everything - thanks to the geeksquad and my credit card. thank goodness but too bad they couldn't salvage my computer. I'm now typing from my much slower PC -- and in the market for another laptop. Any suggestions on where/what to buy?



p.s. limited posting until June....
Anyone else think this is funny? :rolleyes:

:D :D I was wondering when someone would say something. It's an addiction and a distraction - I'm the queen of getting distracted when it comes to these stupid theses. Gawd I'm a hateful person to be around these days.........

[cindysue]

/geek on

cindy - were you able to rescue any of your files? Do you know what died? Can the hard drive be pulled and hooked up to another box?

/geek off

they couldn't pinpoint it. But they did say my computer was "hosed"
- really! I have it in writing

[snapdragen]

they couldn't pinpoint it. But they did say my computer was "hosed"
- really! I have it in writing

Well, yes, hosed it a word bandied about in the geek world quite a bit....
Glad you were able to recover your stuff!

[winddance]

they couldn't pinpoint it. But they did say my computer was "hosed"
- really! I have it in writing

That is so helpful.

I think the only advice I can give you is to avoid Dell, particularly if you ever think you might want to call customer service. If you are cool with taking care of stuff on your own, they have some great deals, but my one experience with their customer service had me nearly homicidal.

[SadieKate]

"hosed"

Also spelled "T-O-A-S-T."

[jobob]

Well, I'm all set, I test-rode my AV sleeveless jersey and bolero this past weekend.

I'm going to be stylin', gasping on the side of the road :cool:

But I dislike suffering so I'll do the metric instead of the century

[maillotpois]

I'm still on the fence about Tam. You did see my average speed for DMD right? :rolleyes:

V.

Let's talk about Tam... It was the toughest event I did last year, but I completely believe you can do it. You can start earlier than DMD, which is nice. We'll talk more... but you should give it a whirl.

[maillotpois]

Roll call (again) - getting organized here....

What time are you starting?
What are you wearing?
What route are you doing?
What kind of bike do you ride?
Are you sticking around for the dinner afterward?

I'll throw mine in:

What time are you starting? Probably 7
What are you wearing? Probably death ride stuff
What route are you doing? 200k
What kind of bike do you ride? Red/blue Eddy Merckx Team SC
Are you sticking around for the dinner afterward? Yup. Yum!

[SadieKate]

What time are you starting? 6 am assuming we can get there by then
What are you wearing? Amici Veloci kit
What route are you doing? 200k at least to start
What kind of bike do you ride? black Kelly Bonestock with yellow tires (Bubba on red Kelly Knobby X)
Are you sticking around for the dinner afterward? Unless it is minestrone or spaghetti. OK, I'll stick around just to see everyone even if I'm starving to death.
Toenail polish color? Melon of Troy (just for yellow and the rest of AV ;) )

[maillotpois]

Toenail polish color? Melon of Troy (just for yellow and the rest of AV ;) )

Toenail polish color? Blue

Okay, so now everyone has to add a question....

[snapdragen]

What time are you starting?
8:30-9:00 That's right - I'm doing the shorty....

What are you wearing?
Probably my AV jersey - even if I feel like a stuffed sausage

What route are you doing?
35 miles baby!

What kind of bike do you ride?
Indigo Blue Terry

Are you sticking around for the dinner afterward?
I figure that's the only way I'm going to see everyone!

Toenail Polish - none, unless I do it Friday:o

Going home after the ride? Heck no - I'm a princess, and I'm taking the whole weekend.:D

[Bike Goddess]

What time are you starting? 6:30ish

What are you wearing? Yellow Benicia Bike Club jacket
Yellow jersey- BBC as well

What route are you doing? 200K

What kind of bike do you ride? Scott CR1 (Black)

Dinner afterwards? Yes, whatever my club does as we are carpooling

Toenail polish? Au naturale

Going home after? Yes! Can hardly wait to take a long hot shower!

Color of your helmet? RED

[cindysue]

What time are you starting? 7:00ish

What are you wearing? LUNA kit

What route are you doing? 100K

What kind of bike do you ride? Orbea Dama Race - pink

Dinner afterwards? whatever my carpool wants to do

Toenail polish? Au naturale

Going home after? Yes! I have dinner plans!

Color of your helmet? grey

[SadieKate]

Yellow, I need you to come out and ride with me in more than spirit. All these women stand head and shoulders above me, literally.

I'll be easy to spot. I'm the short one.:rolleyes:

[jobob]

What time are you starting? 7:00ish

What are you wearing? AV sleeveless jersey, with bolero in the early hours.

What route are you doing? 100K

What kind of bike do you ride? Dusty rose Rivendell with a big ol' black canvas Carradice saddle bag.

Dinner afterwards? There's a dinner afterwards? Excellent!

Toenail polish? who, me?

Going home after? No, Mr. LeeBob and I are making a weekend of it. Heading out to the Shultz Museum & the Luther Burbank Gardens either that afternoon, or more likely Sunday. Any other suggestions for fun things to do, or good places to eat (of course) in the Santa Rosa area would be most appreciated.

Color of your helmet? pale gray

[Veronica]

I'm so envious. You guys are going to have a terrific time and awesome weather. Enjoy the ride!

V.

[yellow]

Yellow, I need you to come out and ride with me in more than spirit. All these women stand head and shoulders above me, literally.
Oh, what, so you don't have to be The Short One? I think someone else (that would be you!) needs to fill that role Saturday.

I'm thinking about getting platform cycling shoes.

BTW, how will you see toenail polish through your cycling shoes?

Have fun ladies!

yellow, aka TSO, also a pedicure junkie

[SadieKate]

The toenail polish is so that we can recognize each other at dinner when our yucky wet jerseys have been discarded.

SK aka TOSO (The Other Short One)

[SadieKate]

WINE COUNTRY CENTURY RIDERS: one last reminder...

• There are several changes to the routes this year. Do not rely on
memories from previous WCCs. Use your maps/route slips and note the
course markings.

• Severe winter storms have caused extensive damage to many of the
rural roads along our routes. Be extra alert for broken pavement,
potholes, and loose gravel, especially while descending.

[Deanna]

Going home after? No, Mr. LeeBob and I are making a weekend of it. Heading out to the Shultz Museum & the Luther Burbank Gardens either that afternoon, or more likely Sunday. Any other suggestions for fun things to do, or good places to eat (of course) in the Santa Rosa area would be most appreciated.

Those are the two place I recommend and/or take out of town visitors.. If you like pizza and beer, there's the Russian River Brewery downtown on 4th St (walking distance from the Gardens). Also walking distance from the Gardens is Tex Wasabi's (Sushi & Texas BBQ) is a fun place. And for you Food Network fans, this is one of Guy Fieri's restaurants.

[SadieKate]

If you like pizza and beer . . .You obviously don't know jobob or you wouldn't have used the word "if." :rolleyes:

[jobob]

hee hee hee. :D

Thank you Deanna !

The Sushi & Texas BBQ sounds intruiging too .... something That Wrong has got to be good. :cool:

[maillotpois]

High of 68 - 70 in Occidental, 73 in Santa Rosa and 77 in Healdsburg.

Sunday is expected to be much warmer.

[SadieKate]

Sleeveless or not?

This isn't sounding like a sleeveless day but maybe sleeveless with a bolero. I hate the tan line that is starting but I hate being too hot, too cold, too whatever. Oh, just call me Goldilocks.

[maillotpois]

I'm thinking sleeveless w/arm warmers and vest. The real question for me is knickers or shorts? I would so much rather wipe out the early Neapolitan tan and just go shorts...

[SadieKate]

Knee wamers, fer sure. There will be a scad of scorpions on my lower half.

Sleeveless, bolero and wind vest. Will pack a short sleeve just in case I'm a wuss.

[cindysue]

The Sushi & Texas BBQ sounds intruiging too .... something That Wrong has got to be good. :cool:

hehehe, that reminds me of the last time I was in N.C. visiting my folks. I saw a Steak and Sushi restaurant and just couldn't imagine what sort of sushi might be on the menu (and I don't eat steak). I'm spoiled!

[snapdragen]

Oops. I overslept, and now I'm in a foul mood. Guess I'll go play tourist today instead.

Hope you guys had a great ride.

[maillotpois]

Great ride! I saw SK and Bubba and talked to her after - she had a great ride and did 200k (as I told her she COULD). She sounded SO up. :D Very good!!

I had to "grip it and rip it" on this ride with DH which was basically good. I finished super strong, but had a bit of a lull in the middle. Typical. This was our first ride together of the year and our warm up for the Davis double in 2 weeks. I had some leg cramping (which has been waking me up at night, actually - and that's never happened before - all very odd). Anyway, the ride felt a lot better than last year, though the friend we were riding with bonked big time and we were slower than we'd liked to have been after lunch. DH and I basically did a 2 up time trial for the last 20 miles. It was fun.

I really wanted to stick around longer at the end, but we had some kid issues and had to get back. I did get to meet Deanna who was working the clothes booth. I did not see Nancy, but SK said she had seen her earlier.

Looking forward to a more relaxed ride next weekend....

[SadieKate]

Since I am being nagged behind the scenes for my report (erm, excuse me, that is the Princess is gently asking about the whereabouts of same), I better get crackin.’

The very patient Bubba got up when the alarm went off at 3:20 am which meant we arrived in Santa Rosa at 5:40-ish so I probably qualify as more AR than maillotpois. By the time Bubba finished eating, we got dressed, de-watered :p and registered, we were on the road about 6:10 or so – and it was darn cold (48F). However this was a blessing as we had a prolonged period of climbing in front of us. Coleman Valley – charmer of a hill. If MP and Deanna had told me there was a 22% spot on it I wouldn’t have gone since I have done almost nil in the way of hill climbing for several months. We climbed up through green valleys and into California redwood forest. At one point the fog was so thick I think the visibility was about 100 ft. Wildflowers were in abundance. Fields of poppies, lupine, Itherial's spear, red warrior, on and on. Good ride days for me seem to always include hawks. Just as I was cresting the big climb on Coleman a hawk swooped down to grab something next to the fence directly opposite me on the road. I could see him (her?) soaring in just above the field coming right at me. Amazing to watch and guaranteed good kharma for the day. This was the glory of the California coast hills in springtime.

After the climb up Coleman, the sky suddenly cleared to crystalline blue and we descended a steep and gnarly storm-damaged road (including a sighting of the infamous jobob skeleton suit) to the Sonoma Coast where we rode on Highway 1 along the cliff above the waves and sparkles of the Pacific Ocean. My computer registered a max descent of 16% and it had to have been on this descent. It was not to be fooled with. We cruised up and down rollers along the coast and through meadows. MP was right. This portion of the route was not to be missed.

We then turned inland and cruised along the Russian River where MP caught up with us and we got to meet Mr. MP as well as an old training partner and friend of hers (and, coincidentally a client of Bubba’s – small world). After a couple of grunter hills, we had all the serious climbing behind us and rolled up to Lake Sonoma for lunch and then south back through Geyserville and Santa Rosa. Of course, the last 30 miles was into a headwind. Wouldn’t be a real ride without it, right?

Since I had not ridden a double metric before, had so little hill training this year, and was unfamiliar with the course, I really had no way to gauge my energy reserves. This course has time cutoffs for the 200K so AR-me had carefully calculated the avg min speed to make the cutoff time and the course closure time (I even had a little spreadsheet, AG). Based on a 10 hr ride time allowance, I needed 12.35 mph avg and MP can tell you how often I questioned whether I could make this time. I knew I would be slow on the first half because the big hills were there. When I hit the 2nd rest stop after these hills with a 13.1 mpg avg I Knew could do it because the rest of the course would be faster, just no gonzo-ing the rollers on the way back. After numerous delays to get across highly trafficked roads and to remove a bee from the boobage, I rolled in at 5 pm. Right on the money. 9:17 ride time, only drafted the Bubbameister for maybe a mile and had gas still left in the tank. Feeling pretty darn pleased with myself today.

‘Course I couldn’t have done it without the constant support, encouragement and confidence boosts from maillotpois and yellow. They put up with paroxysms of self-doubt from me. Thanks, girls.

I was very disappointed not to have seen snap, jo, and cindysue. They probably gave up and went off to dinner somewhere. Can’t blame them. It was a long day. Instead we stopped in Sonoma on the way home and found a chocolate shake and a root beer float. Calories don’t count when you’ve just ridden 126 miles and almost 5,600 ft of hills.

Few last ride notes: Tremendously well supported ride. I don’t think I’ve ever seen so many SAGs. Great food (PBJs, strawberries and lemonade, yum). Bike racks. Flag waving volunteers at course hazards. Clothing drop-off service. Delicious marinated, grilled locally raised turkey breasts for dinner. Kudos to those VIPPS (very important venerable volunteers).

[bikerz]

SK - Excellent ride (and report)! Well done! Wow, that's a lot of miles and a lot of climbing! Sounds like it was beautiful!

[snapdragen]

Still overcoming the embaressment of oversleeping. Guess next time I'll bring an alarm clock.:o Glad you had a good time sadiekate! I'll let jobob give her own report - had dinner last night with her and leebob.

My bad mood improved once I got to Healdsburg and discovered they were having a canine carnival.

Bobbing for hotdogs:
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h181/snapdragen/bobfordogs.jpg
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h181/snapdragen/bobfordogs3.jpg
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h181/snapdragen/bobfordogs2.jpg

Free Pedicures

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h181/snapdragen/pedi.jpg

Fashion Shows
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h181/snapdragen/genie.jpg
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h181/snapdragen/hula.jpg
Louisianna Redbone Hound/Jack Russel Mix:
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h181/snapdragen/dawg.jpg

Kenny, the French Bulldog

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h181/snapdragen/kenny.jpg

Now, back to the bikeride.......

[cindysue]

I got up at 4:35 (after hitting the snooze button). Most of my stuff was packed (or so I thought) and I headed to Starbucks. The plan was to pick up coffee for Charlize, Bekki, and I – my carpool companions. I arrived at Starbucks at 5:10 and there was a note on the door that they would open at 5:15 (15 minutes late). Not good enough! I was supposed to meet my group within the next 15 minutes or so! So, I pouted off and met Carlize in the parking lot. Bekki rolled in a few minutes later, we attached the bikes to the roof rack and off we went. No traffic at all so we arrived in Santa Rosa about 6:30. Plenty of time for a trip to Starbucks since we were meeting the rest of our crew at 7:00 am (or so we thought).

While we were in the registration line, it struck me that I had forgot my helmet (the 2nd time this year!). Fortunately, Bekki had a spare since she had just purchased a sporty new one. Thank goodness it fit. It was 7 by now, and we waited for the rest of our crew to show. Oops again. They thought we were to register by 7:30 am, not 7:00 am. It was nearly 8am by the time we left. Bekki and I opted for the metric, while Peggy, Dar and Charlize went on to do the 100 mile. Bekki and I knew we had a ton of time to do the ride since it would take Charlize a few more hours to do the full century. We got to lunch at about 10am (lunch at 10?!). Neither of us were very hungry but I thought I’d eat a sandwich to fuel me until the next stop anyway.

It warmed up quite a bit after lunch and I took off my jacket. No need to peel off any arm or leg warmers since I didn’t think I’d need them—especially since we didn’t leave until almost 8am. I called Jo to see if she had come and gone to lunch, but no luck getting her live, so I left her a voicemail. I figure she was long gone by then since she probably started an hour before me.

Bekki and I both got flats along the way, and both of them within a &#188; mile of the rest stop. Oops, wrong size tube (I grabbed the 20/25 instead of the 18/23). So I had to patch the old tube and hope we'd make it to the next rest stop. We did and I bought a new tube from the friendly mechanic.

I think we finished around 1 pm or so, sat around and chatted, saw some friends, and waited for the other girls to get back; 3 pm, 4pm, 5pm. We knew they were OK, because they called in at every rest stop. But we weren’t quite sure when they would finally arrive—which turned out to be about 5:15pm. I didn’t see Jo or Sarah who, by her report above, rolled in about that time. Charlize and I both had dinner plans, so she sat down and ate a little, but wanted to save room for dinner with friends, so we took off at about 5:40 or so.

Got to chatting in the car, and oops! Missed the 580 interchange and ended up in San Francisco! I had dinner plans at 6:30pm and we were sitting in city traffic at 6:45pm. Ahh well, I was relaxed in the back seat and wasn’t in any rush. After all, I’d probably only miss cocktail hour anyway. I got home about 7:30, quickly showered and headed to dinner…………..

What a beautiful day! And what a great route! I can’t wait for the Marin Century in August.

and only a few weeks until LRRH. :D :D :D :D :D

[maillotpois]

Great reports! I frankly think Snap may have had the most fun. A doggie fashion show??? That's fantastic. (My favorite is the hula wear-clad yellow lab.)

[jobob]

We drove up Friday evening and checked in at the Holiday Inn Express, one exit on 101 south from the Burbank Center. Since we planned to bike to the start the next morning, the first thing we did after we checked in was to drive the route I worked out from my Krebs map. It looked fine and dandy, and we realized as we approached the Burbank Center that it was about 6:03 so we decided may as well check in.

Check-in was very well run and it was a very easy in & out. We had the opportunity to look at the routes for the 100K and the 100 mi and saw that unfortunately they parted only a couple of miles into the route, so we made the decision then and there to stick to the original plan and do the 100K.

We then headed into downtown Santa Rosa to find some dinner. We were walking along 4th street and passed an Italian Restaurant just as the door opened and some people stepped out. The smell emanating from it was simply marvelous. We stopped, looked at the menu in the window, and went in. It was early enough there was only a short wait for a table. And Oh. My. God. I had paparadelle with wild boar sausage and mushrooms that was transcendent. Lee's shrimp pasta in tomato sauce was glorious. This place is a keeper. Best Italian place we've been to in ages. We Shall Return. It's called LoCoco's, and we'll be there again next year, either the evening before or after the ride. We have us a new tradition.

The following morning we headed out bright & early and reached the Burbank Center at around 6:45. We briefly wandered around the parking lot and the registration area on the off chance we'd see anyone, and then just decided to head on out. Cindy - I'm sorry I missed your call! It was a bit chilly so I started out with my sleeveless AV jersey under a bolero and a vest. I eventually shed the vest but the bolero stayed on.

It was such a great ride! The weather was perfect (once it warmed up a touch) and like SK said the support was outstanding. We gave the first stop (the one at the bridge) a pass since it was only about 10 miles into the 100K route, and we reached the "lunch" stop at the dam at about 9:15, but that's fine because I was hungry. :) I don't think I've ever seen such an assortment of food at a rest stop. At the third rest stop, I made a beeline for the oreo cookies. I usually make a pig of myself with oreos so I never buy them anymore. I made up for lost oreo time by inhaling four of them. As we were going up Chalk Hill, the one and only climb on the 100K route (neener) I was thinking I probably could have done without that 4th oreo...

I was feeling really good through the whole ride, but by the time we finished I was still glad we only opted for the 100K. I wasn't sure if I had another 40 miles and all that additional climbing in me. Our ride came out to 1860 ft of climbing, and we did it at an avg speed 14.5 mph (which is really good for me). And I felt waaay better than I did at Party Pardee. Progress!

We finished a couple of minutes before noon, and then wandered around hoping to find snap & Cindy, but no luck. (Cindy, were you still wearing your Lunachix jersey?). Around 2:00 we decided to pack it in, since we figured the 200 K folks might still be another couple of hours.

We rode back to the hotel, showered, used the jacuzzi tub in our room (we splurged), went to the Starbucks next door for Restorative Beverages, then Lee took a nap while I read by the pool for a bit. Then later we rounded up snap for an enjoyable dinner at Cattlemen's because we all had a hankerin' for beeeef.

This morning Lee & I went to the Luther Burbank house but took a pass on the Shultz Museum, it was just too nice a day to be indoors. We headed for home, unloaded the car, and went for a ride which, it just occurred to me, was the exact same AC Trail / Mission Coffee ride we did with the TE girls a couple of weeks ago (todays fruit freeze flavors were raspberry banana for me & mango/peach for Lee).

Quite the excellent weekend all in all! :cool: We'll definitely do this ride again next year, maybe even the 100 mile.

[Bike Goddess]

For me, it was a great ride! I was psyched out about the hills on Coleman Valley Road, but most were short so it wasn't as bad as I had imagined. By the time I got there the sun was out so that helped.

Although I started out with my club, I took a few moments here and there to remove clothes so I never spent much time riding with them. Instead, I rode most of the route on my own. Somewhere before the lunch stop at Warm Springs Dam, I passed SadieKate and Bubba- the back of the Amici Veloci jerseys is easy to spot. After that, it was a dovetail effect. I had some foot issues, so I had to stop a couple of times to handle my shoes. Nevertheless, I finished 8hrs35min. The last part after Chalk Hill was the toughest- strong headwinds the whole way ( lost 2/10 mile on my over MPH there!)

Don't let Ms SadieKate fool you! She's one strong rider, despite her concerns about training this year.

This was my first century ride two years ago, so it was an opportunity to see how much progress I had made in my riding. (This year, I opted for the double metric) I felt much stronger on the hills, and was able to keep up a faster pace as well. And, I did enjoy the all of the rest stops, the scenery, and the riders. I will do this ride again!

[SadieKate]

I'm giggling over the images of Cindy "pouting off" from Starbucks and jobob "making up for lost oreo time." They both look about 4 years old in my head.

"I had paparadelle with wild boar sausage and mushrooms that was transcendent." Without me? I need to do a better job of following you around.:)

[maillotpois]

Man, I just ate and reading Jobob's report makes me hungry again!!! :D

[SadieKate]

Cindy, where were you sitting at dinner time? We were probably in line for the yummy grilled turkey about 5:20-ish and stayed around for another 20 mins. Found the one oreo that jobob missed and then headed for Sonoma.

I musta checked the faces 3 times looking for you.

[cindysue]

we were sitting in the grass. i was dilligently watching folks come in knowing you would be in a little later than the century riders with 130+ miles under your belt, but didn't see you. That potato salad was yummy, wasn't it?

[SadieKate]

So that's why there wasn't any left!:p They cleaned the bowl with the person before Bill.

We kept our AV jerseys on so we could be easily spotted. Crud.

[SadieKate]

Quite the excellent weekend all in all! :cool: We'll definitely do this ride again next year, maybe even the 100 mile.Jo, if you can convince yourself to do the climb over Coleman (I know you can do it), the ride out to the coast is spectacular. If I wanted to do a shorter ride, I'd start the 200k route, ride out to the Monte Rio rest stop, up to Guerneville and then head back to Santa Rosa via Green Valley (cutting across on Guerneville Rd) or figure out how to return via the 50k route. In other words, do the southern half of the 200K where all the scenery is.

A bunch of the Benicia Club riders did that. Deanna could probably tell us the best way to do that. I think I emailed you MP's 200K map file so you could see what I'm confusedly trying to convey.

That would probably be the ideal ride, in my humble opinion.

[jobob]

Jo, if you can convince yourself to do the climb over Coleman (I know you can do it), the ride out to the coast is spectacular. If I wanted to do a shorter ride, I'd start the 200k route, ride out to the Monte Rio rest stop, up to Guerneville and then head back to Santa Rosa via Green Valley (cutting across on Guerneville Rd) or figure out how to return via the 50k route. In other words, do the southern half of the 200K where all the scenery is. Oh, I could do it I suppose, but at this point there's still a bit of a gap between "could" and "want to" :D

That sounds like a great idea.

I meant to pick up maps for the other routes for future reference, but forgot. Wouldja mind hanging on to yours, or making a scan for me? Thankyee kindly.

[jobob]

Man, I just ate and reading Jobob's report makes me hungry again!!! :D

heehee. I'm all about the food ! :cool:

[Veronica]

heehee. I'm all about the food ! :cool:


Yeah and you look great in sptie of the oreos. Maybe that's the secret to looking terrific - eating oreos.

Sounds like everyone had an awesome ride. Good thing I didn't go since I trashed my front derailleur on Sunday. Proof I'm not becoming a total weight weenie... the bike shop had both a Dura-Ace and an Ultegra derailleur. I thought the Dura-Ace one was ugly :p and got the Ultegra.

But SK I can't tell from your write up why you don't want to do another 200K.

V.

PS There is nothing wrong with watching the weight on your bike. I just prefer to keep my bike as pretty as possible. And remember.., beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

[jobob]

V., you're a sweetheart {hug}

But this is what LeeBob and I looked like back in my oreo days. This is also back when we considered a pint box of Ben & Jerry's to be a single serving size :p :p


http://i1.tinypic.com/xgb1uv.jpg

Gawd I can hardly bear to look at this now :D

[Veronica]

Isn't it amazing how a healthy lifestyle just makes you feel better about everything? It's kind of a no brainer it seems, but so many people haven't figured that out.

I have a crappy day at work - I ride my bike.

I think Lee gets my award for making the biggest changes out of all teh folks I personally know. How much did he use to smoke? I don't think it's easy to quit smoking and eat better and ride your bike up mountains.

V.

[jobob]

Lee quit smoking waaay before he put on all that weight. But he smoked like a freakin' chimney.

Yeah, I'm really proud of what he's done for himself. The biking made a huge impact. He first got a hybrid and would toodle around the AC trail with me - I remember when he would DIE going up the little rollers around Coyote Hills park. But he stuck with it, and after a while he was lusting after a Rivendell Romulus but he was hesitant because of how much it cost. It seemed like he was really enjoying biking so I urged him to get it. He did, he loved it, and a few weeks later I was toodling around with him on his new Romulus and me on my hybrid and I asked him if I could give his bike a try. I wouldn't give it back until I got one of my own.

And now you know the rest of the story :)

[bikerz]

Wow - Jo - you guys are hardly recognizable in that photo! I was scrolling quickly through the thread and thought - hmm - I wonder who that is in that photo...

I feel like all the photos I have of myself from the last 10 years are my "before" pictures - anything current is a "during," and someday soon there will be some "after" pictures! In the meantime, the riding is fun! Thanks for the inspiration!

[maillotpois]

Wow - great story on Lee. Sounds a little like "Mr. MP" who got sick of his wife dropping him on all the climbs after 2 years and got mad and lost 35 pounds!

Well, I just learned that one of my friends who did WCC double metric (a fellow TNT coach and one of the folks who did some of the doubles with us) crashed on one of the last descents yesterday (Green Valley) and broke her collarbone and ended up in the hospital overnight. :mad: Huge bummer. This is one of the most lovely, cheery women you could hope to know. I expect she's off the bike for a while.

[jobob]

Well, I just learned that one of my friends who did WCC double metric (a fellow TNT coach and one of the folks who did some of the doubles with us) crashed on one of the last descents yesterday (Green Valley) and broke her collarbone and ended up in the hospital overnight. :mad:

Ah, so she was the one. LeeBob and I spent some of the time waiting for Snap & Cindy to materialize (harrumph) sitting a a bench near the entrance where the radio tent was set up. We heard snippets of conversations between the guy at the tent and the SAG vehicles. There was a woman involved in a crash and they were dispatching an ambulance to the scene, but I couldn't make out what route she was on.

I have to admit I was relieved once I found out all my girlfriends were present and accounted for. :)

Best wishes for her speedy recovery!

[SadieKate]

I meant to pick up maps for the other routes for future reference, but forgot. Wouldja mind hanging on to yours, or making a scan for me? Thankyee kindly.

I'll do you one better. Go to the club's website and click on current rides. May 7th was the WCC worker's ride and all the route files are posted in pdf. The route revision I suggest looks like it would be a 100k with about 3,500 ft of climbing and it's all early in the ride (but with plenty of easy warm-up). Anyone who has climbed the summit of Diablo can do Colemen, no problem, far easier.

http://www.srcc.com/

[SadieKate]

But SK I can't tell from your write up why you don't want to do another 200K.Because I want to mountain bike. Completing a 200k was a nice milestone but it doesn't make my heart sing the way mtbiking does. If we can ever get you to the singletrack in Bend, you'll see why. I believe yellow's comment as we were descending the Sisters Trail was something about you having the downhill on Diablo and me having Sisters. Slalom-tight singletrack heaven.

[Deanna]

I'm glad you all had a great time on our ride! I got up for the volunteers ride on the 7th with the good intentions of doing a modification of the 100 mile route. Only one man who I've never met was doing the 100 miles, most of the folks doing that started even earlier, so I was easily talked out of my plan. We (meaning the WCC riders and the volunteer riders) were certainly blessed by the weather gods, as all during the previous week the sun waited until the afternoons to come out.

[Bike Goddess]

Deanna- I came by the clothes table asking about posters (they were all sold out!) Were you the one I spoke to???? (I haven't met you so I apologize if that was you!)

Is the club going to make anymore? I loved the framed one I saw. Fabulous!

Glad you got a ride in yesterday. Another glorious day for riding!

[Deanna]

Deanna- I came by the clothes table asking about posters (they were all sold out!) Were you the one I spoke to???? (I haven't met you so I apologize if that was you!)

Is the club going to make anymore? I loved the framed one I saw. Fabulous!

Glad you got a ride in yesterday. Another glorious day for riding!

You may have spoken with me, as I was there all day except for lunch. I've told the power that be that we should make more. I'm not sure who framed the one we had on display, but they did an awesome job.

[slinkedog]

Well, it sure sounds like you all had great adventures. I think this one is going to go on the calendar for next year for sure. Thanks for the link to the route sheets, SK. Maybe Blaine and I can do one of them for our anniversary this year!! :)

[yellow]

I was in the LBS here in Salt Lake yesterday and one of the shop boys was talking about this ride. Guess he had just returned from his trip abroad (translation: abroad is anywhere out of Utah). He said it was the best ride he'd ever done and waxed poetic about the scenery and weather. That's quite a compliment. Pass it on, Deanna!

[SadieKate]

I just realized we hadn't heard from kjay. Kjay, whassup? How'd you do?

[kjay]

Hi, SadieKate . . . I've been hesitant to write, but I really appreciate your asking me, so I will report, although it's not the greatest report, but at least I finished my 35-miler.

Anyway, I rode my steel hybrid and everyone in the world passed me, plus I had to walk up a few hills, but that was okay. I loved the ride, the scenery, the animals along the way (even stopped at Honkey's Donkeys), and fed some grass to a few mama horses with their little foals. However, when I arrived at the Wells Fargo Center, I couldn't find the parking lot where my hubby was parked, so I took a shortcut on a dirt path covered with hay in order to get to two guys so that I could ask them the whereabouts of the main parking lot. It was at this time that my wheel got caught in a 5-inch-deep rut, and I took a hard fall. I either cracked or bruised some ribs, but am doing fine and am raring to go biking again. Nothing that a few Advil and Vicodin couldn't handle.

It took me 5 hours to complete 35 miles, but I had a grand time.

Thank you so much for asking. :)

[slinkedog]

Oh kjay! I hope you're doing okay! Take care of yourself!

[SadieKate]

Yeow! Kind of sorry I asked but I did want to know. It sounds like 99.9% of the ride was fun.

Honkey's Donkey's? This must not have been on our mutual route. Darn.

[Deanna]

I pass the Honky Donkey farm on a couple of routes and have never stopped there (what is it about local attractions that we don't seem to make the time to visit). Isn't there a bird thing at the same place (maybe it's down the street)?

[kjay]

Thank you, Slinkedog and SadieKate! I'm doing okay. I believe I only bruised some ribs . . . nothing broken.

Yes, Deanna, there are exotic birds at Honkey's Donkeys, which, by the way, is located on Porter Road.