HYPE Energy Cycling Team- Slow is smooth, Smooth is fast

Stage 3 and 4 and SALT

2009-06-08T18:53:00.002+10:00

Stage 3- 112km with a big hill and the same hills as the day before. The KOM was on a 500m 15% climb which comes up suddenly. It is flat and fast all the way to the bottom and it doesn't change once you hit it except not flat.
I was tasked with keeping Tim with the Yellow jersey. So I paced for him, chased for him and drove the bunch at as high a speed as I could before Tim gave me some time to recover. Problem is no-one else in the team was in a position to take over so I sat in just behind for 1km and was back into it. We hit the climb at 45km/h and that was me, rapidly heading backwards as I suffered u the KOM. I got over the top just off the back of the main group(lots more behind me though) and motored at over 75km/h down a sketchy descent through light an dark, wet and dry, and off camber corners to catch the main group. After nearly over cooking a couple of corners I resigned myself to not catching the main group solo so waited or some other chasers and pickup some up and formed a nice working Gruppetto. We worked hard to limit the losses and ended up only losing 14min on the leaders.
A nasty crash in the lead group saw another rider going to hospital. The crash the day before saw the worst rider get a rod in his leg. All up agood day and I survived for another day.

Stage 4- 1.1km Criterium around the SALT Village.
This was always going to be a very fast and hard race, so I made sure I was near the front at the start. Sure enough the U/19 started off at a blistering pace with speeds in excess of 55km/h for the first 10mins. As a reult I over cooked myself and was going out the back at a rapid rate. At the 20min mark there was a bad crash with a rider hitting a parked car, which stopped the race. Just as the Coms were stopping the race they pulled me and the 2 other riders up and stopped us first. By the time the rest of the race had stopped they had decided that my group was going to get caught and we were pulled out of the race as lapped riders. When the race was restarted they had 4mins plus 2 laps. Why couldn't my group ride the last 4 minutes and finish the race properly. At least they gave us a finishing time not a DNF.

End result was 30th on GC @ 36min plus some change.

Time to recover and rebuild for the next event.
CIAO

Tour de Tweed Coast Stage 1 and 2

2009-06-06T18:50:00.002+10:00

Stage 1-ITT-8km

Start time-07:37:30
After no warm up and a rushed start due to following another car who got lost, I took off. My main aim was to finish strong and not blow up. Also not to get caught by the rider 30secs behind me.
Well I manged all of the above and stretched the time between me and the following rider(not by much though). End result was an 8km ITT in 13:35. For me, as a non TT specialist, I satisfying result.
Time to get ready for a punishing 66km Road Race.

Stage 2-Road Race-66km

Start Time-1030
After warming up and a change of clothes from my ADCC skinsuit into my HYPE Energy Team kit, I headed off for a coffee. The roadie is setup ready to go and the team is gathering for a shot of HYPE and some coffee and food. The next thing you know a tyre explodes and guess what? Its mine, my rear Zipp tubular blows out the side wall. Probably a saving grace as the 21-11 gear was to big for the course.
We took of with ELite B, MAsters A and U/19 Boys all starting at the same time. 93 riders and a small part of the road to use. The comms were handing out fines for crossing double white lines and the police were doing it too and with a double demerit points this weekend things were a bit tame, until.....

We hit the first of the hills and from there it blew up. I got stalled on the KOM by a touch off wheels which helped in a big way to split the race. From then on in it was a matter of finishing and saving as much time as possible. SO the forming of a gruppetto of those whoi got shed because of crashes and mechanicals was on the cards and we rode a steady tempo to the finish. We came in 18min behind teh winner and survuved to race another day. We did mange a sprint from the gruppetto(which I won) to keep in some form for the Crit in 2 days time.

Anyway rest time. More tomorrow 112km with a lap of todays course plus a KOM on a 500m @ 15% climb. ANother update tomorrow

CIAO

Tour de Tweed Coast-2 days to start

2009-06-04T19:12:00.003+10:00

Well we are now only 2 sleeps form the start of the Tour de Tweed Coast, the Battle of the Border, Cyclings State of Origin if you will.
Everything is going good. The bags are nearly packed the bikes are right to go. The legs feel good, and my mind is in the right place for where we are right now.
It will be good to have the family down there with me, even if they will only watch the Crit on the last day.
I have seen some names on the start list from some of my old stomping grounds in Newcastle. Curious as to their form, and some inquiries to some of my club mates down that way have not yielded any help, YET.
ANy way will post some stage results and reports daily once in location. I will also let you all know what the Salt Mantra Resort is like as well.
CIAO

Every thing right- Except the finish

2009-05-31T10:36:00.002+10:00

Well the Metro Crit Title was run yesterday and another great race. Fast aggressive and all eyes on me. Being the defending Champ, I was a marked man and as a result so was my whole team. HYPE Energy made sure that we had a rider in every attempt to gap the race, giving us a chance at every point. THe boys did a mountain of work and still had enough in the legs to pull me to the front for the finish.
THe finishing 2laps, OMG, very sketchy. Bikes and riders going everywhere, chopping wheels, some riders power sliding on some corners. At one stage, I had one of my team mates bars under my leg and ended up sitting on them at 55km/h. The last lap I was positioned perfectly for the sprint but a second lineout on the right of me kicked at 200m and the wheels in front of me faded leaving me dropping of the pace a bit. I jumped across to the other line and started to sprint but all I ended up doing was saving myself from being passed. I picked up 2 slots and finished in 7th. THe first 6 places were pretty much lined across the course not leaving a path through, so being in the winning roup is a good result in the end.
Pictures to come soon

Good Luck to the HYPE Energy Team at the Metro Road Race at Mt Alford today.

For me it is time to get some TT training in and some hills ready for the Battle on the Border-Tour de Tweed Coast, next weekend. I ahve all this week off to ride and get the kms in and finalise my condition.

The plan is for Tim for GC and me for stage wins. But you know what they say about plans, theye go out the window as soon as the race starts.
Wish us luck!!! ;)

Been a while

2009-05-29T21:51:00.002+10:00

Sorry it has been awhile since I last posted. But, due to work committments I have been kept decidedly busy.
ANyway tomorrow morning is the metro Crit Titles, which I am defending, so should be interesting. Just for nostalgia resons, this time last year it rained and I won. It rained again tonight after a hard rain period, so i Hope it is a good Omen. Anyway the HYPE ENergy race team will be supporting me.

1 week until the Tour of the Tweed Coast or Battle on the border. ENtry in and Accomodation in, all that is needed is form and condition. Army hasn't given me the best lead up but that as never stopped me and it wont now.
ANyhow,
Will let you all know how it goes tomorrow.
FINGERS CROSSED

Wishing Good Luck

2009-05-08T05:44:00.002+10:00

I would like to wish my mate Ryan(thechargingrhino.blogspot.com) all the best during his month of living the dream in Belgium. Hope he has some some success and has a safe trip.
Keep us posted buddy with all your exploits and send heaps of pics.

Form coming in

2009-05-04T14:21:00.003+10:00

After a good weekend on the bike, I have seen my form coming in. Racing at Murrarie on Saturday was really good. I felt a bit dubious about my form when I got there as I haven't raced at Muzz in a while and the differnece in speed and ability between Nundah and Murrarie is huge. But, once the race started and I got intot he flow of the race I wa pleasantly surprised. The speed was there the strength was there and the gaps found me.
Sunday I headed out to the Zupps bunch ride and once again the feelings were good. Legs were light and loose and the body was relaxed. When the ride kicked into top gear, I found it easy to move up to the front and get across the gaps.
The only downside to the wekend is small tear in my right Hamstring which started to hurt at the 100km mark on Sunday. But after 230km over the weekend with some very hard and fast racing efforts forming the majority of the kms I am happy.
Today, being a public holiday, I have had a quiet day, no bike as yet but I will probably get on the rollers for 30min just to spin the legs and keep them soft and supple.

Best wishes and a speedy recovery to Wade(US rider in Cinelli-Down Under Team) after his huge crash and Coma over the weekend.
Ciao

Tour de Tweed Coast

2009-05-01T13:34:00.003+10:00

Yeah, I have my entry in and accomodation booked for the Battle of the Border or Tour de Tweed Coast. A bit expensive but when you break it down a bit into 4 races on some Championship courses, full tour village and tour atmosphere, it isn't to bad. Then my accomodation I got 3 nights for the price of 2 and the whole family is going.
o a family weekend with lots of bike racing thrown in.

Wish me luck

ANZAC Day Photos

2009-04-26T19:01:00.005+10:00

As promised earlier. Here is some pics from ANZAC Day. Below is Rohan Winning in he 2 Up. Little ratbag cleaned up. Beating the Bank and some side bets. Also is me in my ceremonial uniform, with the kids. There is also some pics from the ANZAC Day parade in Brisbane.

ANZAC Day vs Qld State Criterium Titles

2009-04-24T16:27:00.002+10:00

Well, it is that time of year again. State Titles and ANZAC Day. First of the 2 is ANZAC Day and I have to march in the city. But befroe the march is the Dawn Service. The Dawn service starts at 0430 Saturday morning on the 15th April, along with a a gunfire breakfast. What is a gunfire Breakfast I hear you say? It is a hot cup of coffee with a very generous shot of rum in it. then after the service we are having Bacon and Egg rolls straight off the BBQ.
AT 1030 we have to be in the city so that we can march. The parade will last about an hour and then it is back to the barracks for a day of remembering lost soldiers and mates on active duty. This involves alot of drinking and story telling.

Once ANZAC Day is over it is time for the State Criterium titles. My race is on 26th April at 1150am (so a little sleep in to recover). The race is to be held at the Nundah Crit Circuit, Albert Bishop Park Nundah. THe ride there is a good little warmup and should blow out the cobwebs from ANZAC Day. Anyway riding Masters 2 and with a field of 40+ should be good. I have already noted a couple of numbers that need to be watched so will make a note on my head stem and just try to stay near the front and out of trouble. With 2 team mates there hopefully HYPE can come away with something for the day. Fingers crossed. Will get some pics from the ANZAC Day parades and then the State Crit titles and post them sometime next week.

Ciao

Back on the bike.

2009-04-15T09:04:00.002+10:00

Well I finally got back out on the bike after a week of poor weather conditions. It has been all up 1 month of no bike thanks to work and weather.
Anyway went out and did a steady state session with Adam and Chris over at Murrarie. Besides the course being covered in disgusting water that wil make you as sick as a dog, it was a really solid session. Pulling full lap turns on the front before swinging off, for the first 45 minutes, followed by 2 laps easy for recovery then 1/4 lap efforts before swinging off and tagging on to the back. All up I managed to knock out a solid 86 km for the first hitout.
Hopefully the weather will remain clear and dry so I can prepare for the Masters STate Crit titles the day after ANZAC Day.

Well time for recovery.

Tweet Tweet

2009-04-14T14:47:00.001+10:00

Just signed up to twitter. DOnt know much about it but slowly sorting it out. Come and tweet with me and all my friends.

1st Term is over and I am tired

2009-04-09T15:50:00.002+10:00

Well in the terms of breaking up the year into workable packages, Term 1 is over. And, what a term it has been. With a rough start to the year where, nothing had been organized and I was dumped in the deep end of a logistcal and sub account nighmare. It has finished in a slightly better position. Logistically things are slowing moving in th eright directiona nd processes are in place and "I haven't lost anything" YET!!.
But the last month has ben hectic. Preparation for a predeployment shake out, has had the heirachy spinning in an evertightening circle, whilst surrounded by junior leadership incompetance. The last 2 weeks has been physically and mentally fatiguing and as such I am really struggling to find motivation to get on the bike. I am tired from the time I wake up and it doesn't get better anytime through the day. My eyes are sore and my back and neck ache from poor sleep and from poor sleeping conditions. Did you know that the desert is very windy, very dusty, and gets very hot during the day and very cold(occassioning Frost) at night. Thats what I have been up to.
Now, that the term is over I am hoping that I can recharge the betteries and find some motivation for the bike. But with the knowledge that 2 weeks after the school holidays I am away again for 2 weeks and then very shortly(anyhwere from 1 -2 weeks later) off again for anywhere upto 6 weeks away all over Queensland, time on the bike right now seems to hold little importance other than saving some sanity and to get out of the house and away from work for brief periods.
So why the training tempo, well really I dont know but if I was to guess than I couldn't tell you anyway. But Mr K.RUDD will probably say something soon which will probably have severe implications to my bike time and family time in Australia. Having said that atleast I would come home (fingers crossed) and be able to fully upgraded my roadie, trackie and get a TT bike, with all the options I want. Ohh and I would own my house. But until Mr KRUDD says something, I will be busy making sure I ready for whatever.

SSS over for another year. Here is my race

2009-03-15T17:08:00.002+10:00

Well the Sizzling Summer Series (SSS) is over for another year. Although I only manmaged to make it races 3 and 4, it was a good hitout for me.Race 3 saw me, finish in the top 10 after getting away in a break that was pulled back by a determined bunch. With a very scappy last lap with plenty of argy bargy and touches of wheels it came to a drag race for all the sprinters. The wheel in front of me got chopped forcing the rider to bawk, in turn washing off a bit of my speed. the end result was a top 10 finish. Today was race 4, the last in the series. With the overall already sealed it was purely an attempt to gain some data from the power tap and fine tune my sprint and race craft. Although already in a good position, with no pressure to do well it was time to have fun and experiment.Any way the race kicked off with a neutral lap and then into it. Rolling over the line to start the race proper saw me drag the bunch through at a solid 50km/h letting every one know that today was going to be very fast and hot. A seires of hard fast attcack followed with many attempts to form breakaways. Nothing succeeded. Then the whistle for the prime was blown and I was sitting pretty about 10 wheels back with a team a few wheels in front watching for any teams breaking down either side. With 600m to go for the line one of the tems lined out on the right and a shout to my team mate and he was on it and I was on his wheel. The leadout was going nicely and at 50m left a rider form the Uni team took a flyer from a long way back after missing his train and just rolled my on the line. So 2nd in teh prime was good, first would have been nicer but thats sprinting.After letting the bunch continue through me to catch my breath and recover a bit the race settled for a couple of laps with all the teams just reassessing their plans.The rest of the race a series of attacks and more attempts to breakaway and once again nothing succeeding. Then the 3 to go sign came out and the sprinters strted to get their trains together and the pace went up about 10km/h as every one jostled for the right wheel.I positioned myself early and watched the right people. 700m to go I got washed out a bit and lost touch with front but made a move down the outside and took the long way around the bunch but I was to far back and ended up in finishing just inside the top 10.Overall a good day with an average of 44.9km/h. I put some pics up from race 3 in my last blog but have none from today as the teams photographer Gaylene was unavailable due to work committments with Bayers Trading Post, one of my sponsors. I will look for some pics from the other photographers that were there to see if any one has some good ones and pass on the link.Next SEQ Open for me is the Glamorgan Road Race, held in conjunction with the QLD U/19 Road Titles, a week after Easter.

Lets go back a week!

2009-03-14T19:12:00.007+10:00

Here are some pics from the Sizzling Summer series Rd3!!

What a relief

2009-03-11T19:43:00.003+10:00

Just did the Biological age test. After hearing all the press about checking your biological age compared with your real age I though I would give it a go. Now, I expected to get a real shock and have to start thinking about changing a few things about my life. My job is not overly friendly on the body and stress levels and therefore I thought that this would go against me.
Well surprise surprise, the results are in. With a real age of 34 I have a biological age of 35.

What I dont understand about things like this is why they insist on using BMI as a weight assesment tool. i am 178cm, 78kg and have a body fat of less than 10%, yet my BMI says I am 24.6 and therefore it says I should lose some more body fat. Anyway I dont like BMI as a tool and as such pay it lip service.
Oh well the results are good so I must be doing something right.

Ciao and good health

Cycling and Cyclones

2009-03-10T19:48:00.002+10:00

Well I have decided that Cycling and Cyclones dont mix. They definately dont make for fun training time. I know, the Australian Cycling Team both track and road are called the Cyclones, but that doesn't help me. I will be a cyclone and right now I might as well be riding in one. Brisbane is being, shall I say, Gently buffeted by the outer edge of Cyclone Hamish which is situated just of the Nothern Coast of Queensland. Although down graded recently we still suffer the affects over 1000km away. At least for now the arain is staying away and the rain we have had has been insignificant, from a training point of view.
Yesterday was a day of continuing my training and staying on the bike. I met up with Chris(Beetlejuice) for a training ride over Mt Cootha followed by a loop of the river. Now I have always said I cant climb, but maybe this training thing works. My last attemptof the Mt was a dismal 12min 50secs. This time I cruised, never went into the red or felt like i was doing it the hard way, in an easy 10min 40 secs. So just by riding I have dropped my time. Maybe I should ride this Mt more often to help me when the road goe up in a race.
Now we all, who ride it, call it a Mt. Really it is a hill that has a solid effort climb of about (or just over) 2km @9% with ramps of 10%. Mt Cootha is a beautiful spot for a ride both on your Roadie or your MTB. With great downhill, X country trails, walking trails, picnic spots and of course the Sealed loop for roadies. I think a full loop is 10km which is good if you want to do a hill session and dont want to have to head miles out of town to do it.
Anyway knocked out 70km yesterday moring with Chris and then a recovery roller session tonight. Back out on the bike tomorrow for hmmmmmmmm. Maybe the Mt again??

Ciao

Once again Happy where I am at- For now

2009-03-08T19:07:00.003+10:00

This weekend was a good weekend of racing. Yesterday, the HPRW Nundah Crit was on and it was a fast hard hitout. With a large field of 60 with many teams represented it was always going to be quick. The ave speed for the race was 45km/h with an 8 man breakaway lapping the field with 5 minutes to go inthe hour long crit. Not surprising when you look at who made the break and how quickly they got organised and efficient they were.

Any way a nice hot fast day in the saddle. Happy with how I went.

Today, was race 3 in the Sizzling Summer series(SSS). now I haven't race din teh previous 2 races and was a bit unsure of the standard of the course and the type of rider attracted, particularly since there have been a few crashes in all grades. Anyway, Emma and the kids came out to watch and get a couple of pics and have a bit of a family day. Not too hot(31 degrees C) with a bit of a breeze. Elite B kicked off at 1215ish(the hottest part of the day) and ot straight into it. WIth a rider jumping of the fornt almost immediately. So with out wanting to let things get away to quickly I jumped off the front and had a crack to keep it together. it worked and was quickly kept in check by the bunch. Seems I was being marked a bit. Oh well. Anyway another 2 riders made a go at getting away and this time I let it go. One of the 2 escapees was Damon Stefani from the ADF cycling Club, so I wasn't going to chase him down. They stayed away for most of the race. Then with about 10 min to go the officals came out with the 2 laps to go sign. A lap later they were yelling out 10 min to. A bit of confusion with many still contesting the sprint thinking it was over. I was a little more alert and although having to dodge a few wheels and yell to riders that it wasn't over. I hit the front and smashed a lap at 55km/h to drag back the break, although the accellerations for the not quite last lap had done a pretty good job.

It was then time for me to sit up and save my legs for the real finish. Adam did a good job of keeping me up near the front but not on the front. After a couple of sketchy corners the last 500m came and went very fast. I was sitting in a nice position behind Adam about 6 wheels back. A move came down my left at the same time a move went down the right. Adam followed the right hand move and I followed the left. The wheel I was on got chopped and he bauked a little but taht was enough to allow me to be swallowed up and finsh the race in the top 15 not in the top 5 or in 1st. Maybe next week hey??

Now I said it was another hot day. Lately we have had some absolute stinkers, both hot and humid. Now taking that in mind I have come across a fantastic product to help with saddle sores and chaffe etc. It is not known for being a chamios creme but I use it as one and find it superb.

Neat 3B. It is long lasting, but it is medicated as well. Plus it is cheaper than your traditional Chamios cremes. Check it out and look for it in your local Chemist.

http://www.neatfeat.co.nz/p_3b_action_cream.htm

Sponsors- Place your name HERE!!!

2009-03-05T20:39:00.007+10:00

Sponsorship! Probably one of the hardest things to gain with the current financial climate around the world. businesses are not willing to take a gamble against the market to sponsor a cycling team.
HYPE Energy is in the process of attempting to gain further sponsorship in order to not only expand the team but also move the team up into the next category. One of the biggest things that a cycling team can offer sponsors is a wealth of exposure through the rolling billboard that is the Teams training and racing kit. Add to all of that the teams word of mouth to other riders and interested people alike.
Anyway so where is this going?
If any one out there is in a position to invest in the HYPE Energy Cycling Team we would love to have you on board. 2009 is lookinglike it will be an exciting year in the SEQld cycling scene and as such any business could benefit from the added exposure that HYPE can provide. If you look at the top of the page you can see how much room is available to a new sponsor to place their Company logo and any other details this want on the front and the back.

So if you are interested please feel free to HYPE Energy Cycling Team via email lukebutler1@optusnet.com.au to discuss any details and invest in an ever expanding team and sport.

Ciao

Work is in the way again

2009-03-04T14:53:00.003+10:00

Well here I am at Wide Bay. It is hot , Humid and I am at work. Some of you might remember when I was here at the end of last year for 6 weeks. Guess hat it hasn't changed one bit. Damm.
The only difference about this trip and the last trip is this one is over on Friday and I don't have my bike. Damm.
Anyway, it is an opportuity for my legs to have a little rest prior to the weekends 2 big days of racing. When i get home on Friday I will spin the legs out on the rollers for a bit and then get some rest for the Saturday Nundah smashfest(hopefully not a crash fest), then Sunday Sizzling Summer Series races Rd3. It is supposed to be hot again so hydration this week is important.
Anyway will chat again soon

Ciao

A new focus- Hope it comes true for me

2009-03-03T19:16:00.003+10:00

I got to work this morning a little bit early so I could catch up on some emails after my interval session down at Nundah. Anyway, there was a call from the Australian Defence Cycling Club(ADCC), my club, treasurer calling for race resumes for the ARAFURA Games in Darwin in a coupel of months. Normally the Top 10 form the Defence National Titles get automatic selection, but due to operational tempo and the liek it looks like some of those can't make it. So, straight away I was emailing him with a quick preview of my results from last year with a quick note that a detailed list would come tonight.
So I just sent it.
Anyway, the ARAFURA Games are not something you can just turn up to. It i an international event with teams coming from all around the ARAFURA Sea. The AUstralian Defence Force usually sends a huge contingent across all the sports but traditionally the cycling team has consisted of triathletes.
The last ARAFURA Games was the first time the ADCC sent a dedicated cycling team and overall did a pretty good Games. This time we want to dominate and show the calibre of riders we have.
Not sure if there is any track events during the games but definately a RR, ITT and a Crit.
But not being the type of turn up event, my whole training now is focussed on being ready to ride in the NT, so I hope I get it.
By the time the ARAFURA Games are over it will only leave a couple of weeks to get ready for the Tour de Tweed Coast. A totally different style of racing and a hell of lot more hills but the temperature differences between NT and Nthn NSW will make up for some of it. I would freeze but the cardio fitness would outweigh the lack of climbing done in the NT and if I have some serious climbing in my training starting now that should compenstae for a lot.
Now to find out if I am in the team??
Now where is my ADCC kit, might have to do some training and some racing in that again.
Ciao

Back on track

2009-03-01T20:26:00.002+10:00

Well after a period of things seeming to go stale and, i suppose plateau, thaings seem to be back on track. My last to races have been with teh crew over at HPRW. The first race was on the classic Nundah rit circuit, a 1.2km flat circuit with a serious of S bends on the back straight and a long drag style finish straight. Anyway, with no team mates to help keep things in check, I had to go back to school and remember individual race tactics again.
After starting the race with a plan to just finish and use it as a tool for training to get things straight again, it didn't work out that way. A break went away and stayed away until the prime. Not sure if we dragged them back in or if they sat up (maybe a combination of both) but they came back to the peloton.
Anyway a series of break attempt went away again including one from me. Every one was attentive and all got pulled in. I even worked my ass off to bring some back. Then the second main break got away and was assisted by the blocking from 2 teams Merida and Mainline. Anyway the bunch tried to chase and it was broken up by these 2 teams each time. We then cuaght the B grade bunch, and just as we were almost passed tehm the commisairres gave them 2 laps to go and they picked up their pace. Words were exchanged by the 2 bunches but he end result was B grade break followed by A grade break followed by B grade followed by A grade. Not good for us.
A grade sat behind the B grade while they did their last 2 laps, rolling around at 40km/h. THe B grade riders not in the sprint sat up rolling down the finish straight sitting up all over the track. So once again in the race I let loose with a mouthful of abuse. Offended a few but dont care really as tehy shouldn't of been riding like that. Plus those that know me half expected it, anyway nothing happened from the officials so over it.
Once that was over we were back to full pace in a vain attempt to catch the A grade break. The end result for the day I crossed the line in 6th place (2nd from the bunch sprint).
So what started as a day to just stay in the race and get some legs going but not do too much turned out to be a hard day and a satisfying result.
Move forward one week. Racing with HPRW again but this time at the Lakeside motor raceway. I really hate this track, this is the one I crashed on in January 2007. I shattered my elbow tore a whole in my knee, 2 operations 5 days in hospital and 7 weeks off work.
Anyway back to yesterday, this track has 2 hills(for a crit they are hills) which are leg sapping. It was very hot 30 degrees C at 7am. The A grdae bunch raing for 60min so a long day. Once again the plan was to survive stay upright and get to the finish with the main bunch, minimum.
After an attacking race including me taking off in a couple of attempts, I was feeling really good. But the last time up the last hill I got stuck a little too far back and by the time I got over the top the spinters were already on the way down and I had to work very hard to make up some ground. So in the 53/12 I smashed it down the hill and took a run up at 65km/h and closed up a few spots but could only manage a 7th on the line. However i did manage to beat most of the ones I had marked through out the race as my main opposition.
SO since I last posted I have had a relatively good period of training and racing. Next weekend is a 2 race weekend. I am entered intot he Sizzling Summer Series(SSS) for the first time. I know I am a bit late as I am entering into race 3 of 4 but I dont care as they are not my goals for the year.
I will keep you posted on how things pane out over this week and how I feel leading into the SSS.
Ciao

Now I can see

2009-02-18T20:31:00.002+10:00

Finally got the powertap software working. The problem to date was the fact that it is XP compatible and my laptop is Vista. Damn Vista. Anyway after a bit of looking and cursing I found the latest update and version of the poweragent software and downloaded it. Guess what now it works.
Guess what now I can see how I apply my power on the bike and hmmm, it seems a little crazy to me. Anyway I think I need some help in understanding how to interpret the info in front of me and then applying it to the bike.
So now I can see and there are some things I need to do to get on top of it and be a little more efficient and therefore stronger and faster on the bike.

Stay tuned folks

Ciao

Very focussed Now

2009-02-17T20:29:00.003+10:00

Now that I have the Powertap for more than 1 ride I am finding myself riding harder than I normally do, percieved effort(PE) is up, I am climbing harder than I was. Now dont get me wrong, I am not attributing this all to the Powertap. It is more because I have a new focus, have changed the way I look at my training, and changed the way I interpret the info in front of me at any one time. Plus aiming to ride and stay above a certain wattage regardless of the terrain adds to the challange and therfore adds some motivation, focus and drive.
Right now while I am still working out how all this works and where I am in regards to my fitness I am aiming to keep above 250 watts and the average for my ride above 200. So far so good. As for aiming for that magic 1730 Max all I have managed is in the 1200's.

So how did todays session go? I went to Nundah and met up with the Tuesday Intervals group and we had a hitout of 3X 5 lap intervals with the usual sprint t the end of each interval. Ith each interval at 40km/h it made for a solid session. Add to that, left the house a little late and had to smash myself all the way there made it a good start to the day. After the session I headed off to work nice and easy but still aiming to stay above the 30km/h ave speed I had. I got to work and time for PT. I headed off to Samford for a few extra km's and some climbing skills. Now from work the climbs are only short but for a non climber they are a good starter. I normally hit these hills and my cadence drops to 60 rpm and in the 39/23-25, today it was kept above 80 and on the steeper slopes 39/21-23 and at times 53/21 towrds the top where it starts to flatten out a touch but still climbing. For me as a non climber this is a significant change to the way I climb and my PE when climbing. During any of the climbs I remained seated, at no stage did my HR go into the RED like it normally does. I know this could indicate an improve in fitness, but also that I have changed my mindset in relation to hills and how I ride. I am also finding that my pedal stroke is smoother and in circles not triangles. Anyway for the day my kms were 96.16 KM at an ave of 30.1km/h
So if this how I feel after a couple of rides I can't wait to see how things will be after a couple of months of concerted training and riding.
So if any one has some hints as to how to train with power please pass t on to me.

Ciao

A whole new training focus

2009-02-16T18:53:00.002+10:00

Well, Sorry for the big delay but I ahve been a bit busy. Anyway in my last post I hinted that I might be the new owner of a Powertap Power meter. Guess what, I got it. After saving a few dolllars on what is essentially a relatively new system, I now have a new training focus.
It was hinted to me that I would view my time on the bike differently and after to hard rides into work to guage my levels I have found that maybe I am still in the bottom end of where I want to be. Where my Polar HRM, on exactly the same ride says I ma doing a 32 ave sp, the Power tap inidcated a 28kmh ave. Hmmmm. Is it wrong or is it right. The percieved effort seems the same. Oh I dont know!!!

Anyway now it is time to change the way I train and understand Power based training. Anyoine got any clues or tips or even a training programs that they have used that I can look at to come up with a valubale working plan for me.
Max power so far 1164watts. Apparently i have to beat 1730watts. Thats what the previous owner maxed out at, so definately a challenge.
Will keep you posted.

The season Eye Opener

2009-02-10T20:44:00.002+10:00

Well the first Open event of the season has been run and won, and believe me I was o under done it wasn't funny. Even though 1 month ago I was happy where my fitness and strength levels were at, after a couple of weeks of wet and busy work place those levels have slipped and I went in and over cooked myself far to early in the race and just didn't have it.
I have no excuses, I chose the easy option when it was wet, so I have to turn it around and use the knowledge gained from the weekend and use it to have a successful rest of the season.
So what did I learn??
Well first of all, I need to get some solid riding in and get some legs and fitness. 50km hard yesterday and then 90 KM with sprint intervals today has started a change of training focus for me and I seemed to be recovering well so far. STAY FOCUSED
Second of all, there are some strong teams forming and that HYPE needs to be on their game in every race in order to nullify the other teams efforts. The best case scenario for us would be to allow the other teams to fight for position and wins and and benefit from their errors and infighting. MORE FOCUSING
Third, the racing will be harder and faster this year. If I am to retain my Crit title then stringing together some solid results combined with solid training, is not going to be enough this year. I am going to need allot of luck, alot of Training and remained (you guessed it) FOCUSED.

Rohan's Birthday was great. No blood, only a couple of tears, 2 significant crashes( T-Bone and a Touch of wheels) but no damage, no fights and a lot of tired kids by the end of the day. Emma whipped up a mean Fruit salad which was totally demolished by the kids well before the lollies and chips(crisps) did, and some party bags. As for party games, who needs them when the kids are belting around racing each other, chasing each other and entertaining themselves. Beats trying to round them up and make them pass the parcel or some thing like that. Oh, Rohan had a BMX track with FMX and ATV stars on the table top and triples. NICE.

So as I said when I started blogging this year that I would make this a way to show my focus and determination in training and Racing, keep an eye out for my training sessions and race results. Give encouragement where needed and if you think some advice is needed then pass it on. Oh and on a final note, I might be becoming the proud new owner of a power tap(wired). Will keep you posted.

Ciao

Family Birthday time

2009-02-06T18:47:00.002+10:00

Well Tomorrow is Rohan's 6th Birthday. Should be good, he is having a X-Games Freestyle party. How does a 6 year old have a freestyle party. He invites all his school buddies and tells them to bring their BMX bikes, Scooters or Skate boards and just allow them to go stupid in a park for 2 hours. In that time I expect to go through millionsof tears, hundreds oof band-aids and a ton of lollies.
He is getting some pretty good pressies too. From Mum and Dad he is getting an Anger Management Pro Skater helmet, along with a Nintendo DS game and heaps of cool stuff.
Anyway after the party we are heading off to Oakey for the Two Day tour. But like I said yesterday I am only doing the Kermese on Day 2. Let you know how it all goes on Sunday night. Till then ;)

It is the start of Open season

2009-02-05T22:24:00.002+10:00

Well, Open season is upon us and really because it is so early in the season I am feeling a little underdone. The first open event is a 2 Day Tour (of sorts), made up of a Crit and Kermese. I haven't raced either before, but form all reports it is a great weekend. I am only doing the Kermese on the Sunday. The unfortunate thing is I will only have one other HYPE rider there to help keep it together for me. Thanks Adam. Oh well, will just have to do a Rockin' Robbie and use the other teams to get me to the line. What is it Robbie says " I dont see other riders I only see gaps and I use them". Hope thats how it goes for me.

Anyway this Saturday is Rohans 6th Birthday and he is having a X-Games freestyle party, so he has all his party guests bringing their bikes, scooters or skate boards for some fun in the park. All should have fun.

So for now I will go, but I will post a race report after teh Kermese and some pics, if available. Adams partner should be there to take some awesome pics. If it is a successful day ofr HYPE then hopefully we can use the pics to garner the support for some additional sponsors.

until then ciao

Happy where I am at

2009-01-21T21:18:00.003+10:00

Well had my first Crit for the season and although I only lasted 36.16 out of a 40min + 2lap race, I am happy where I am at. For now. I entered into the Elite A Bank Of Queensland Twilight Crit series Race 3. Jokingly some one yelled out for no attacks for the first 10 minutes, I think that got confused with 10 seconds as it was on immediately. With crazy speeds of 69km/h with around 40 in the race, and attack after attack, it was a tough day out. I helped bring back a dangerous attack, but at the 30 min mark I was dangling off the back under the constant pressure being applied at the front by some of the guys who have just return from the Jayco Bay Classic(a 5 Crit series with some of the best riders in Aust) and the National titles. I tried to chase back on but couldn't do it. Oh well.

Anyway some solid training coming up and more racing with another Elite A crit on Saturday morning and some Track training on Sunday. Legs will be firing soon and I hope for some good performances over the coming year.
Chat soon

The season has now started

2009-01-19T17:01:00.002+10:00

Well not quite. It really starts on Tuesday. The Cancer Council Criterium was held in Adelaide, South Australia last night, and as much as many of the US and Euro Pros dont like him, Australia's pocket rocket won a lightening quick(47.417km/h ave sp). Go Robbie McEwen. Now most of the attention leading up to the Tour Down Under, which is yet to officialy start has been on the return of Lance Armstrong, therefore taking some of the pressure off the Australians in the race. It very much expected by the Australian tifosi that an Aussie rider should win, and Stuart O'Grady is always the hometown favourite.
Team Columbia-High Road had good control over the last couple of laps providing a good lead out for Andre Greipel(2008 TdU GC), but Robbie from Team Katusha had it all over everyone on the line.
Anyway my Season will start on Wednesday night with the Bank of Queensland Twilight Critrium Series (race 3) missed races 1 and 2 due to work. So noty really being in the running for the overall I can go for individual wins and use the remainder of the 5 race series as some intensity training prior to the State Masters Track titles and the Oakey Kermese on 08 Feb. My season this year is a very long one and as such targeting races is going to be important. However, using the weekend crits to keep the legs and lungs fresh and in shape is paramount and will be good for the extra intensity in training. It doesn;t matter how hard you try, you can never have the same intensity in traininig as you do in racing.
Anyway will let you guys know how it goes on Wednesday night.

My last day and Eilish has her first day

2009-01-18T17:23:00.004+10:00

Today as promised was a Daddy Daughter day. It started at about 0630 this morning when I was woken by Rohan watching Cartoon Network on Foxtel. So I got up and got myself some brekkie and then Eilish got up and sorted herself out. At around 0730 we headed of to Chandler and jumped into the training session that was going on with LCCC.

Kevin, another ADCC member had a small track bike setup for his daughter to use but kindly offered Eilish the opportunity to put on some platform pedals with toe clips and have a go. Now I wasn't sure yesterday whether the bike was a fixed gear or a SS. Well it was a Fixie. So with a few instructions on what not to do and what to do when riding a fixie, then the do's and dont's on riding on the track I gave her a push and sent her on her way. Of course being the caring Father I am, I pulled the camera out and tooka few pics so her Mum(Emma) could see how she went. She had a ball. The smile on her face should indicate how excited and how much fun she was having. Anyway After a couple of laps I raced of to get my shoes on and joined her in rolling around the duckboards. After a couple more laps I was encouraging her to come up the track a bit. So she had some attmpts at riding in the Sprinters lane. It took a few goes to complete a lap above the black line and stay in the sprinters lane.

The warm up session was over so she sat down and watched the U15 and up have training races. In amongst the people there was a current Masters World Sprint Champion, along with other state reps and juniors. After a while Eilish came back and asked if whe could get back on the tack a ride around some more. So I set her up and got her going even though there was a seniors Scratch points race going on. She went well getting faster each lap. Once the seniors Points race was over teh juniors came out for a 3 lap Handicap race. The youngest in the Coby, is about 7 so it was the perfect race for Eilish to have a go in. So I set her off from the 140m mark and told her to pedal as fast as she could for the 2 an a bit remaining laps. Off she went. She came last but the smile on her face was awesome. After that we left so that she could get to a Birthday party.

Once the Birthday party was over it was time to head home and help out with some house cleaning and get ready for work.

Thats right my last day of holidays and back to work tomorrow. Being a Soldier I am required to be clean shaven each day. So, like most soldiers, Holiday time means letting loose and not shaving. This holidays I really let go and grew a beard. I shaved it off just after Chrismas and thought bugger it and grew it again. Well today it had to come off. So with a bit a mucking around a being silly I thought I would go with the Marty Maaskant look or the Paul Teutul Snr look. My kids as expected are grossed out about it but a bit of fun for the First and Last day.

Father and Daughter time

2009-01-17T19:27:00.003+10:00

It has been a couple of days since my last post and all is well. Not allot of time on the bike but that is becasue I have babysitting duties with my kids still on school holidays. However I have managed a couple of roller sessions in on the roadie and they have been good solid sessions.
just prior to Christmas Eilish expressed an interest in giving Track racing a go. So without being a pushy parent I have encouraged her to give it a go. I haven't been on her about it but instead have waited for her to continually raise the subject. Which she has. Anyway, tomorrow is her first go. So we are heading out to Chandler Velodrome(Built for the Brisbane Commonweath Games in the early 80's), where she will be able to utilise one of the Logan City Cycle Club bikes. Now I believe they are a track racing bike without the fixed gear, but I could be wrong. We'll find out tomorrow.
She is really keen and considering she has a cometitive streak in her hopefully she will enjoy it. Anyway I will try to get some pics of her having a go.
If she really likes and wants to stick to it I will get her her own track bike and set ther up fully. You never know she could even hit the road as well. Anyway the time that Eilish and I will spend at the track will be some quality Father and Daughter time.
Ciao

www is wide wide world

2009-01-15T16:38:00.002+10:00

Have had a quiet day with the kids. w ewent over to their cousins house to enjoy some time in the pool. Spent most of the day there. Just got home and received a SMS from Rocky. Check out MASHSF.com. So I did.
Check out this link http://www.mashsf.com/videos.php now I dont condone some of the antics that are projected in the videos but hey it does look like some good fun with soem good mates.
The Austin Texas video has, thats right you guessed it Mr L.A cruising around on a SS and thrashing it about with the MashSF boys.
Some quality riding in some quality locations. Makes me consider getting a SS to commute and train on. Might stay away from the fixie for that but a SS could be the go. But it would have to be a Mashed together bike. MMMMMmmmmm

Mt Nebo or Nudgee Beach?? Climbing or flat ??

2009-01-14T09:48:00.009+10:00

Judging by the title you can imagine what I ended up doing cant you. I was meeting up with Rocky, a mate from work, for a training ride this morning. Originally we planned to to do Mt Nebo to Jolly's lookout, but he mentioned to me that he did Mt Coothat yesterday and it nearly destroyed him. So after a shocking sleep and a long night I woke up this morning not so refreshed and not keen for 45min of pain along with the numerous undulations between home and the start. Besides with the kids home now time has ben restricted a little( i knew this would happen) as I have to be home in time for Emma to go to work. So, after a quick sms, we agreed to head out to Nudgee beach for a spin and a couple of laps of the Nundah Crit circuit for some efforts then a coffee.

So off the Nudgee Beach went after meeting at the crit circuit at 0530. We went at a steady pace of 35km/h all the way out. It was such a beautiful morning. Nice and cool, but not cold and the sun was warming but not hot. The was a light breeze. We got out to the Beach(more like a mud flat at low tide) and the water looked very inviting. It is nice to be able to get up and go for a ride to views like that. After a short break, enough time to take these photos and a quick drink of water from my beloved bidon, we started the return trip back to the crit circuit. Once there we began a few laps under effort. Pulling turns of 42km/h was like training to work in a breakaway scenario, something Ineed to work on. I am not the best in a breakaway if it is a small group. I will still do my bit I tend to get a bit excited in the break and do to much work or to much effort and blow myself up. So breakaway training and training to dose my effort and work load so I can go harder for longer in the breakis something I need to work on.

Whilst at Nundah this morning, there was that much money riding around it was crazy. It seemed everyone had a new Cervelo P3 Carbon, with Zipp or Dura Ace carbon wheels. I dont understand the idea of training on your carbon race wheels. Mind you the training had a race like feel to it with all the carbon wheels flying around the track and the tents from the Speed Skating championship tents set up on the side line. Some atmosphere at training. There was even a podium. Yesterdays sprint intervals session saw 6 of us clown around and stand on the podium for some photos after all the intervals were over. (From l-r Mark, Mick, Suz, Donna,????, Me)

The following pic is more suited to yesterdays post (Early starts and Stolen Silence) but have only just got it so will put it up now. This one is in between one of the intervals, heading down the start finish straight. The next time round will start a new interval. All those wheels in front is the whole group that we had. Sandra is taking the picture and I am riding next to her.

Anyway, more training later. Might do rollers this afternoon and some weights.

and we do this every day in Summer

2009-01-13T21:45:00.003+10:00

Armstrong bemoans 'insanely hot' SA weather
Posted 6 hours 13 minutes ago
Map: Adelaide 5000
Lance Armstrong has received a taste of the brutal heat he can expect next week during the Tour Down Under.
The seven-time Tour de France champion cyclist has trained with his Astana team-mates in and around Adelaide, where the temperature has gone above 41 degrees Celsius.
Armstrong has described the weather today as "insanely hot".
Conditions are usually extremely hot for the Tour Down Under, which starts next Tuesday.
The race heralds Armstrong's comeback to top-level racing after a three-year retirement.

The Tour Down Under is the first UCI event of the year and becoming more popular with the early season pros. Wish I was there to see all the action.

Place your HOT TIP here as to who will win.

Early starts and stolen silence

2009-01-13T13:12:00.004+10:00

Well, I am back to the early starts. Was up at 0430 this morning so I could go out and get some training in. Met up with Sandra, Mark, Suz, Mick and at least dozen more riders for out Tuesday morning sprint intervals at Nundah. It was the biggest group so far, and really it was to big for the track and the number of other groups using the same track. Maybeb not too big but the difference in cycling fitness and ability was huge. So it was a struggle to get a some consistant effort in. The fitter in the group had a tendancy to spend longer on the front at effort and then slot into the paceline to fill the gaps that appeared, then hitout at the end of the five laps for the sprint against who ever was still holding on. I enjoy these sessions as I get to catch up with friends and get a solid sprint session in.
Tomorrow maybe Mt Nebo, depends on time.

Stolen silence, yeah thats right. The kids are home and they have made their presence felt already. the dog has been cuddled and is now hiding, the neighbours kids have already been visited and been brought back to my house to play. Then fed. My daily moments of peace and quiet have been stolen and gone forever. Well, until the next school holidays.
Despite my ramblings, I have missed the kids and it is good to have then home.

Sharks, Whales and Satellite TV

2009-01-12T17:18:00.004+10:00

Lately there has been a number of Shark attacks in Australia. Why?? Is it because of over fishing of the waters all over the world, is it because we are spending more time in the water and therefore our interaction is more frequent? Is it simply just plain bad luck? I dont know and there are plenty of people being paid lots of $$$ to work it all out. However this is not the reaosn behind this post. Earlier today, on top of the 3rd shark attack in as many days, in NZ a surfer was photographed catching a wave or two. Not really exciting is it. But, how about the fact that in the bck ground there is a Killer Whale(Orca). So that covers sharks and whales but what about the TV?? While I am typing this I am watching Foxtel (satellite TV) and what happens to be on the movie channel? JAWS: The Revenge. Strange how things play out isn't it.

With all the Sharks attacks it makes you think is it worth going out to the beach for a swim, but really, should we let an extremely small likelihood stop us from the things we love to do. I know it wont stop me. Having said taht I don't spend a lot of time in the surf unless I am taking Eilish boogey boarding.

Speaking of Eilish, both her and Rohan have been spending their holidays at their Nans and tomorrow they come home. So the peace and quiet that Emma and I have at the moment will be gone. Damm. Just jokes, We ahve missed them and they have missed us and it will be good to see them again. So tonight is our last night alone.

SO how has my bike riding going? Had a rest over the weekend to recover fromt he track carnival and went back out today. Knocked out a quick 40km of flat and then added another 10km of power climbs on the ay home. Concentrated on cadence and sustained effort. Tomorrow I am heading out to Nundah to have an interval session with Mark and a few others. These sessions are good. 5 lap intervals at about 40km/h with a full gas sprint at the end, then 2 laps recovery and start again. We start at 0530 and go through to 0630-0700 depending on work and time. let you know how it goes tomorrow.

Anyway time for dinner, having crab and chilli pasta. Emma is a great cook. Will let you know how that goes to.

Ciao

Successful night on the track

2009-01-11T13:40:00.002+10:00

Well, considering how much time off the bike i have had and how long I have been back on it, Friday night was a success.Turned up with plenty of time to warm upand settle myself. Pinned my number on and started to focus. Race 1 was a 25 lap Scratch race. I was the oldest in the Elite B race and at 34 up against 17-23 year olds I did ok. 2nd in the intermediate sprint and 4th on the line. Happy with that.Race 2 1600m Wheelrace. Held of the Scratchies until 3/4 lap to go and the fitness got the better of me. Finished in 7th.Race 3 a 24 lap points race. With out maing to much effort in the intermediate sprints I pulled a couple of 3rds then 6th on the line at the end. Not sure where that put me in the final point score, but I don't care casue I was having fun and getting my legs going.
Emma was bored at the start but hen met the partners of some of the gys and girls I race and train with and she started to enjoy it a bit more.
Now to start getting ready for the Elite A crits again. Keep you posted.

BTW some pics should be up later today so I will see what I can score for you.

Race nerves. Is wierd to enjoy them??

2009-01-09T14:23:00.000+10:00

As much as i tried to have a good night sleep and do the right things to prepare for the track carnival tonight, I had a shocker. Tossed and turned all night and didn't sleep well at all. The only thing I could think of was Pre race nerves kicking in early. Even as I type this I have butterflies. Problem is I really enjoy it. My senses are heightened and my reactions quicker and really cant wait to get on the track now. For a long time now I haven't had these felings unless it has been a title race, so to get them ofr track carnival is good. I think?Any way time to go for now. have to go to my LBS Lifecycle and pick up the roadie which has just had some new white bar tape put on.Will let you all know how I go tonight. Wish me luck!!

Rest in balance to aid recovery.

2009-01-08T21:54:00.005+10:00

Stayed off the bike today. More for recovery to prepare for the Track carnival tomorrow night. I have a scratch race, a handicap and a Points race to do.
I enjoy my track racing and haven't had a really competitive session on the track in ages so really looking forward to the high intensity session.
Emma is coming to watch me on the track, so should be a fun night. I hope???

I would like to welcome all the readers from Sydneycyclist. com and Melbournecyclist.com who have followed my link from the network pages I have joined.

Tomorrow the roadie wil go into the Lifecycle shop for some new white bar tape. Instant Euro Bling!! I will be doing a couple of short sharp sessions to warm up the legs tomorrow, with both the training wheel and the disk to make sure everything is all good and get the legs spinning at right time for race time.

Wish me luck.

www.adfcyclist.blogspot.com

2009-01-08T14:46:00.001+10:00

Come and check it out

Climbing aint easy, but has to be done

2009-01-07T17:21:00.003+10:00

Well, definately on the right track.

Chris and I headed up over Mt Nebo today. It was hard, not just because I am not a climber but because it was hot. Chris and I met at our rusual spot at the Sth BAnk end of the Goodwill Bridge and headed off through Red Hill and The Gap. We hit the base of Mt Nebo and set our own tempos. I hit my lap marker on the HRM so I could get and indication of my climb time. From the bottom to the first Cafe at the top, 55.06. Chris did it in 49.??, but he has been training hard over the summer break and been doing lots of climbing, so I don't feel to bad. On the way back down I drove the pace and made sure I still had a grip on the downhill part of climbing ensuring I was picking the right line through the bends.

So whatr were the ride details?

Time-3.40.29

Ave HR-140

Max HR-164

Dist-95km

Ave SP-26.8 km/h

Max SP-72.4 km/h

Ave Cad-78

Max Cad-128

Ascent-1435m

Temp Ave-30 celcius

Temp Max-38 celcius

All I need to do now is give my legs a good massage and rub down and have a solid sleep tonight, oh and eat well to refuel the body.

Tomorrow I will be heading out for a solo ride. Will go do the Zupps Loop which will be about 80kms and use it for some sustained intervals and cadence work. THen Friday will be a very light day on the bike with probably a coffee ride and a quick spin on the track bike before heading to the Velodrome for the carnival.

On the right Track... I think

2009-01-06T16:48:00.003+10:00

Well, my training is going well and I think I am in a better position than I originally thought. Although lacking in endurance my strength and power seems to be still with in a workable range. the endurance will come with time on the bike and solid kms.

So how did I go on my loop over Mt Cootha? Chris didn't come as he was called into work early, but that idnt stop me. So off I went for a solo loop. I decided to just ride the Mt Cootha loop and get a guage of my climbing fitness and a time for the climb.
Ride Time-2.27.18
Ave HR-135
Max HR-168
Dist-60.7km
Ave Sp-26.8
Max Sp-77.2km
Ave Cad-76
Max Cad-125
Ascent-630m
Temp-Ave 30 max 36(celcius)

Today I enetered into a track carnival. Although it is a 4 day arnival I have only entered into one day, Friday. I am not expecting any miracles, but I can use it as a guage to see where I am at prior to the crit season restarting and as a solid training session with high intensity spinning.
So I pulled out the track bike and had a short session to blow the cobwebs out and get used to the fixed gear thing again. I ride a 50/15 gear ratio.
Time-20.03
Ave HR- 134
Max HR-150
Dist-13.1km
Ave Sp-40.1km/h
MAx-Sp-52.3km/h
Ave Temp-37 Max 43 (celcuis) Damm that is hot.

Hopefully Emma will come to the Carnival and watch. She doesn't really enjoyt watching bike racing because there isn't allot to see but some Crits and the track she enjoys a little because she can see it all and the atmosphere is usually pretty good. If we can gets some pics from the night I will post them up.

Anyway tomorrow Chris and I are heading up Mt Nebo. A 20km climb that overlooks Brisbane. As much as the climbhurts it is really good and the descent can be pretty wild if you like to give it a little. The only thing tomorrow is it is supposed to be HOT. We are heading up at about 10am which means the sun will be high and burning but a bit of coin in the pocket and a stop at the shop just be fore the climb for something cold and to top up bidons and away we go.

Till tomorrow Ciao

The first ride for 2009

2009-01-04T18:01:00.005+10:00

Well, I had my first session out on the road for 2009 and Damn it felt good. After hanging up the wheels for the 2008 season on 16 November, getting out today was good. The wind was up and blowing in from the water so for the ride it was in the face. However in a bunch that at one point was around 200m long, there was some time to sit on wheels and just spin and get the feel for the saddle again.
Anyway Chris and I hit the front of the bunch about 15-20km into the ride after having some Strong riders who are preparing for the Nationals at the end of the month keep the pace up around 38km/h. Thinking I would struggle to hold that sort of pace, Chris I belted along for a 5km turn at 40km/h. We then swung off and took what seemed a lifetime to reach the back of the bunch for some well deserved wheel sucking before the egos got the better of the rest of the bunch. Egos were going to be on display today particularly with 2 Pros in the bunch. Matt Hayman (Rabobank) and Ben Day(Toyota United) were in the bunch having a nice recovery ride of sorts as a part of their build for the Nationals.
As expected the pace rose but not with the vicious attacks that are the norm but with a gradual acceleration which shed the light weights or the unfit(me), and spread them along the Redcliff Peninsular. Once I was dropped I just rode as solid a tempo I could and manage to only lose 3-4min on the second group on the road and rejoined them at the usual drink stop at Brighton. Once their a quick can of Coke and off we went again to make our way towards our humble homes.
Today's ride-
Time- 2hrs 30min
Ave HR-143
Max HR-174
Dist-80.9km
Ave Sp-33.3 km/h
Ave Cad-87rpm
Max Cad-119 rpm
Ascent-305m

Over all a good start for the year. Time to build on it and get strong for both the track and road season.

Next week training is going to be some solid Kms.
Mon- River loop and Mt Cootha
Tues- Eatons Crossing and Samford loop
Wed-River Loop and Mt Cootha
Thurs- Zupps Loop
Fri- Eatons Crossing and Samford Loop
Sat-Rest
Sun-Zupps

Each day will have a roller session and some weights incorporated into the program.
I will keep you all updated with my training and will use this as a means for encouragement and to see improvements and losses.
Once HYPE gets together and works out the Team race calendar I will post it up.

BTW, Emma and I went out on a Date the other night. It was good. We went to Brett's Wharf Restraunt down in Ascot on the Brissy river. The food was superb and the service excellent. I highly recommend it, but it is not cheap. We had some tapas for the entrees, Emma had some crumbed Scallops, mmmm nice. I had some Goats Cheese stuffed olives in a parmesan crust, mmmmm Very nice. For mains Emma had a Paella which was huge and filled us both and I managed to score the Atlantic Salmon on Roated Potatoes and Chilli Jam. Then we went to Baskin Robbins for some Ice Cream and came home. A very nice night and the first of many nights/dates to come.

Till tomorrow Ciao

2009 Time for the bike again

2009-01-03T15:13:00.002+10:00

Well, Welcome to 2009 everyone. I hope it has been as good so far as one could expect. I know mine has kicked off well so far with things between Me and Emma going well. Ware lucky enough right now to be able to have a couple of weeks togethre withoout the kids as they are out camping with their Grand mother.
Any way, like I said at the start, Time for the bike, but not at the expense of the family. SO a balanced tarining program which will include rollers and road time.
Emma is back at work on Monday which will allow me time to start my training again. But just to give it a real hard kick in the guts I am heading out with a couple of team mates to do the Zupps ride tomorrow (Sunday 04 Jan), which will hurt but be a good starter to blow the cobwebs out of the lungs before starting a targeted build up/base training phase on Monday.

Training Program to come

A time for friends and family

2008-12-30T08:12:00.002+10:00

Well Christmas is almost over and the New Year is almost here. The time in between is a time to send it with family and friends, and that is exactly what has been going on. DO you remember that saying that "you can chose your friends but not your family"? Oh my god! it is so true. Regardless of what has happened throughout this last year, the princess like behaviour of some family members is astounding. It is one of the things that really gets up my nose and unfortunately, and those who know me will atest, I will definately let you know when you have pissed me off. Family members haveing aprincess moment and dumping their children(including a new born) on their partner because thety are tired(I can understand this) but then going out and partying half the night????
I am not the most favoured member of the family right now but, and I can handle that. But ignoring me and treating me like one of the animals that rule the families houses is a bit much, I think.
Felt very uncomfortable in one house, was glad to leave and dont think I will be stopping in for a coffee for very long on the way home on New Years Day.
Any way, we left there and came down to Newcastle, NSW, which is where we all call home now, and have caught up with some really close friends and more family and having much more fun. None oof us can wait to move back down here at the end of 2009 and to finally move into our own house and do the renovations that we want to. We have owned this house since 2001 and never lived in it because Army has always moved us around and never near the house. So soon we can live in it and call it "OUR HOME" will post a pick one day.
SO what is the plan for the near future, January actually.
Emma and I drive back to Brissy on New Years Day and will have a few days wioth out the kids as they are going camping with their Nanny and Popbo. I will climb back on to the bike and commence my rebuild for the 2009 season. My focus is on getting stength and speed back as well as endurance. But I am targeting the State Masters Track Titles in February. While Emma is at work and the kids are still away I will get some road legs, once the kids return I will be back on the rollers and also having some early starts to get some road kms in aswell.
Thsi year I am planning on doing more climbing so I can help the team in Tour of the Sunshine Coast, Grafton-Inverell, Cunningham Classic and some other undulating races, while the build up their strength and speed for the lead outs I need in the sprints. THere is a team meeting planned for early January to map out the years racing and get together for training. Hopefully we can expand this year and also gets some more sponsors. I have asked a few large sponsors from overseas to jump on board and use HYPE as a launching pad intot the Australian market so hopefully that pays off as well.
Anyway enough form me for today.
I hope all of you have had a great Christmas and have stayed safe and well. Till next time(I will try to post more often) Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Rebuilding love and friendshhip

2008-12-21T12:53:00.003+10:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM ALL OF US

Well I have been home now for nearly three weeks and the time from home this year has paid a toll. But, in the last 3 weeks all that is slowly dissapating and the love and friendships are rebuilding. I have spent nearly every day with my kids and have had a ball. I have forgotten how funny and exciting they are. I am so lucky that they play so well together and are such
good friends to each other. Emma has been working hard still, but, having me home and helping out around the house the extra workload has been reduced and as such has allowed us more time for each other. Emma now only has 2 more days to work this year before we can go on holidays.

Today we are allowing ourselves a lazy Sunday and having fun myucking around and watching some crazy chick on Foxtel who has 8 kids. Who does that????

Come Wednesday we begin the annual go see the relations that live on the East Coast of Australia. It starts with a 4am get up and i the car by 5am the morning before Chrismas followed by a 5 hour drive to Coffs Harbour, The Bannana Coast. WHile there we will spend Christmas Day with Emma's Dad and Brother, and catch up with old friends and new babies. When that is finished around the 28th we wil then repack the car and make the trek to Newcastle to spend New Years with Emma's Mum and Grand Mother. While there we will catch up with more old friends and more family.

New Years eve will be spent living it up in the stuffy old Newcastle Club where, I have to wear pants and a tie. I have been told I will have fun and enjoy it. I think thats is more like a YOU WILL have FUN and You WILL enjoy it, because I SAID SO type event. Certainly not the NYE I would have liked to have. Mind you I could be surprised and besides the kids w should have fun being able to stay up that late and not have to deal with the usual NYE crowds at the Waterfront.

New Years Day Emma and I will get back in the car and do the 10 hour drive back home without the kids, which will allow us some US time for a couple of days.

So what are the big changes in my life and New YEars Resolutions?? Be a better Father, try to spend more time at home(with in the limitations of my job) , find the balance of bike and Family without sacrificing one for the other, and probably the most important one is be happy and have fun doing all of it.

To all have a safe and Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

A year to remember for some of the right reasons and some of the wrong ones

2008-12-17T13:39:00.002+10:00

Well, What a year it has been! Sounds like the words to a song doesn't it, but alas it isn't. This year has been one of those that you want to forget but dont know you shouldn't. There have been so many things that have happened this year that it is hard to break it down and summarise for you all. How ever I wil make an attempt so that when found in the same situations you can have an idea of where I have been.

THus year started like any other in the Army, flatout and without direction. I started of by finding out I was instructing on a course which started about 3 weeks later. Nothing had been prepared for the course although my Unit had known about it for well over 6 months. So with a bit of knuckling down and getting into the instructor groove I belted through it, much the detriment of my family and cycling.
At the end of the course I was begrudgingly given a week off, only to return to find I had been moved into another unit.

So begins a new chapter in my Military Career.

So after the move, all of 600m, but a move all the same, I settled into the new workplace and got my career back on track. I completed the courses required to secure my position ion the next rank level and did it relatively easily. However this involved me being away from my family again. Once again this was to the detriment of my relationship with my wife and my kids. Some of you can see where this is heading but it gets worse.

Upon return, I found that I had been pannelled for the course I had been trying to get for over 12 months but it again involved going away for around 6 weeks. This again caused further suffering to my long suffering family. Once this course finished I was ome for the longest period yet for the year. I managed to stay in the same vicnity as my family for 5 weeks, including a 10 day trip to Fiji, which I have previuosly spoken about. Many of the absence issues came to a head in Fiji, and were never really resolved. Once we returned from Fiji, I was once again off on another course insyructing. This time 6 weeks 3hours from home. Not that far can easily come home when time permited. Guess what, I got home 3 times, in the first 2 weeks, thats it.

So by the time all this finished only about 2 weeks ago the damage from the year had been done. Dont get me wrong, Army is not totally to blame here and either is the work rate or work load, but it hasn't helped. Combine all that with a poor sense of prioritising between work, family and cycling and it came to an explosive finale the night I came home.

SO what has happened since then, after so long nights just sitting and talking with my lovely wife, Emma, and family, we are rebuilding our friendship and love for eachother. We are spending as much time with eachother and starting to go out on your trusty old fashioned dates again, and she gets a few little surprises every now and again (something I had stopped doing years ago). My involvment around the house has increased in order to allow us more time to do the things we want to do and in the end when it really comes down to it, because I want to.

So I am now on holidays and spending the time with the kids while Emma is still going to work each day. The kids and I are having lots of fun and doing stuff together again. Emma and I are becoming really good friends again and together a really close family. I know it doesn't just fix itself overnight but at the moment we are all doing the right things because we want to and really enjoying it.

As for my cycling, I have had 4 weeks off the bike and dont see the point in trying to rebuild for the last 2 races for the year. My Jayco Bay Classic bid is off, so I can spend more time with Emma and the kids over Christmas and the school holidays. So I have decided to take off the rest of the year from racing and heading out on to the road, either solo or with firends until the New Year. For the first couple of months next year I will primarily target the Track racing, culminating in the State MAsters Championships in February. SO between now and the New Year I will be doing daily and sometimes twice daily roller sessions on both my track bike and my road bike, as well as weights. Why only rollers? SO I can spend it all at home with the Emma and the kids, and target specific things. Once the track starts up inthe new year my leg speed and stength wil be there is will just be a matter of fine tuning to weather conditions and some racing intensity to get it all spot on in time for the State Titles. Once Track finishes then I will be back into the road crits and road racing.

My team are still looking for local and international sponsors to take us into the 2009 season. WIth Metro Crit titles to defend, Tours to win and National Police and Miliatry Titles to win it is to be a big year for all of us. We also plan to expand the team to include a Womens team and and A and B grade mens team. So if you are interested you know what to do.

To all those who read this and or follow my ramblings, Have a Very Merry Christmas and a Safe and Prosperous New Year.

Building nicely for January

2008-11-08T20:01:00.005+10:00

Sorry folks but I have had work commitments for the last 2 weeks and have been away. However, they have finally accepted that the bike is probably a good thing and I have taken it away with me so I can continue my training. So how has that training going?

You might remember that the last time I posted here I said I needed to start climbing more. Well, I haven't done any sustained climbing but have been doing a road ride that is nothing but up and down. 64km of either going up or down but the ups last longer than the downs and combine with the heat it is doing wonders for strength and conditioning for short power climbs, which will be useful for the Bay Classic in January.

I came home on Thursday and after getting stuffed around at the last minute by the powers that be at work I got away and saw the family for the first time in 2 weeks. Friday was a quiet day, getting a new phone and spending some time with Rohan at his Auskick AFL training session.

Today, I went to the "Muz" for the usual Saturday morning hit out and smash session. After many attempts to get away either solo or in a another break it come down to the bunch sprint, but after I dragged back a 5man breakaway on the last lap. After pulling the bunch along at 55km/h to reel the break in I managed to get myself in a position about 8 wheels back but the legs were screaming and protested and that was my day. Overall I was happy with the days race and it showed how I was going in general and that I am getting stronger and faster and recovering quicker. I did manage 2nd in the Prime which was a good 53/12 sprint.

Todays race also confirmed for me that I am going strong and that other teams are noticing it, as riders from both the Virgin Blue team and Budget Forklifts teams sent riders to cover my attempts to get away whether they were solo attempts or join another breakaway group. In one attempt there was 2 Virgin riders and 1 Budget rider in the group and then I got across and they both sent another rider with me. Now I could be seeing things but I like to think that they are marking me as someone who can threaten there positions on the podiums.

Anyway until the next post, hopefully tomorrow. Ciao

By the way, My State Crit titles attempt was miserable. After getting into the winning break my bike suffered a massive mechanical failure where my freewheel was that free spinning forward and not getting any drive forward. by the time I got it sorted I was off the back of the peloton and out of contention. Disappointing really but that's bike racing i suppose.

Time to start climbing

2008-10-23T20:25:00.007+10:00

Well the week is almost over and the Crit titles are almost here. How do I feel?? Well there are some pre race nerves building and it is hard to keep them under control. I have made my plan and I am going to try to stick with it.

So today was a quiet day. As a result I called it quits at work at about 11am and came home to relax before heading out with a team mate Chris aka "Beetlejuice". So the plan was going well a relaxing day and a relaxing river loop. Guess again.

Chris had this plan to mix it up a little. His idea was to start the river loop with alap over Mt Cootha first. Now I have never ridden up Mt Cootha so this was to be a new experience. Experience, Mt Cootha nearly beat me today. I got up and over but I had 2 stops(remember I am a sprinter not a climber). The first stop was because I thought my back tire was deflating. I had just fixed a puncture and thought I had pinched it or not removed the orignal cause. So I stopped to check that, No it was all good. So off I went to try to get back on Chris' wheel, without blowing up. Then I had to stop again. THis time though it was because I was way over my LT(Lactate Threshold) and going into the red big time. So I stopped for a minute, had a drink and got my breath. Once I started again I headed for the top and caught up to Chris. The climb wasn't over but the worst part was. It still kept going up and then it started to go down. Now with out any effort including allowing cars to pass we were cruising down at 80km/h in a 60km/h zone. So that was Mt Cootha, definatly will be going back at the first opportunity and making it a regular part of my training program. I will need to if I am to fill domestique duties in ther Sunshine Coast Tour and Grafton-Inverell races next year.

I really need to climb more, that hurt far too much.

Once the Mt Cootha was done we continued on our River loop. This wan't to be any easy task either. Didin't matter which way we headed we ssemed to be heading in to a head wind which was just strong eneough to be annoying and break your rythmn. So off we went, the heat was up(not excessively) and combined with the wind drained the body and dehydrated us very quickly. But we finished that and headed in our own directions for the long journey home.

On my way home I thought I would duck into my LBS and see if my new saddle had arrived. I ordered it yesterday and was assured of overnight delivery. Guess what no saddle. maybe tomorrow they said. Now I am not blaming my LBS because they are a good bunch of blokes, with a reat reputation. It is their delivery people that have stuffed it.

So now I have to wait until tomorrow to get my new White Fizik Arione Ti saddle. I suppose thats ok a sI will have tomorrow off the bike save for a short roller session later in the day to keep the legs ticking over but not tiring them out.

So till tomorrow.

By the way, Did I mention that the HYPE Energy Cycling Team is expanding. We are after new ridrs both male and female.

We are also looking for new sponsors who are willing to take on a team. We are looking for an equipment sponsor as well as financial sponsors who can see the benefits of cycling and business. So if you are interested let me know.

Storm season is approaching

2008-10-22T16:10:00.003+10:00

Well it is coming to that time again, Storm Season. Certainly nothing like the storms in the Top End or in Tornado Alley in the USA, but for the SE Qld it is storm season. and, LAst night showed us that as much as we like to plan things in advance sometimes it is pointless and disappointing. As I said last night I was off to the track for a bit of Track Racing at the Velodome, but the storm came in and put an end to that idea. SOrt of worked out well as the legs felt a bit heavy but nothing I haven't ridden through before.
When I woke up this morning after a shocking sleep, it was clear and sunny and any sign of a storm from last night was only on the radio news (B105), and it wasn't as bad as I expected. SO off to work I went and spent the day finishing off my lesson preparation so I can have an early mark tomorrow before it all starts going ahywire on Friday.
SO tonight is a weight session and then on the rollers for a bit to keep the legs moving for the State Criterium Titles on Sunday. Now I said yesterday taht if it is hot it will be a tough race. Well guess what? The forecast for Sunday is 30 degrees Celcius and my race starts at 2.45pm. So a 1hr +3 lap Crit in 30 degrees guess what very tough day in the saddle. The race favourite is Jonothan Cantwell. Who is he I hear some of you ask? Well JC rides most of the year for the Jelly Belly Cycling Team in the USA. thus year he had a successful trip to Superweek, so for him to come home in time for the State Crit title is going to make it hard for the rest of us. My saving grace is he doesn't really know me and I was only a couple of places behind him last weekend at the Abbruzzo Cup,which he also won, adding to his favourites seeding. Plus I will have some team mates to hopefully keep me near the front. But having said that there will be other teams there all with the same plan so a tough day is for cerain.

So where to from here? POWER
I am now in the market and actively searching for a power meter. I have heard about the power training techniques and advantages of it. Have now had a few friends who have taken the leap of faith and invested in a reliable Power meter and are praising the move. SO I am going to do the same.
Now we all know how good the SRM power meter system is but really it is out of reach of the average amateur cyclist. SO the next on the list was the Ergomo, now not in production and the company is out of action, so scratch that one to. IBike and Polar not that reliable from all the reports I ave read and been told about through word of mouth. So what does that leave?? THe CycleOps Power Tap hub based power meter. All my mates, training partners and their dogs friends all rave about it and if built into a good wheel I can race and train on it. So time to squirrel the $$$$$ away and buy one. Hopefully before Christmas. But if it is just after then thats Ok but to have it at the Bay classic would be a geat way to see what is required at that level for the next time.
Any way tme to hit the gym so I can make room for some Hells' Pizza

Legs are ticking over nicely

2008-10-21T16:01:00.002+10:00

Well got up this morning at 5 am(intead of 4 am with all the intentions of an Interval session with sprints but after last nights 4 lap(1.2km/lap) solo session legs were feeling a bit heavy and I was a bit tired. So I went back to bed for an hour and then got up and got on the bike. I headed out to the Nundah Crit circuit where the rest of the group was already belting around at warp speed.
I joined in for the 3rd last sprint nd subsequent intervals. Once I got going I founf the legs were really good and reacted wel with the intensity. Without wanting to go too hard because of the track racing tonight I had a really good hit out. Once it was all over I headed off to work for an easy day of lesson preparation and a Co-ord conference.
The only positive thing from the conference is that everyone wants this to go smooth and I can ake my bike to keep my training up, and by all accounts, and a review of the training program I will have plenty of road training time and roller time. Unfortunately no Gym work as thereis no gym facilities where I will be but I am sure I can improvise.

Now on the faily side of the house, the kids are going well. Eilish is doing really well with the Violin and Swimming, and Rohan has taken up AFL(Auskick) and loves it. He is also doing well with his swimming .
In mid August Rohan had to had to have a minor procedure which for a 5 year old is quite major. He had to have grommets put in his ears, his agnoids done and his tonsils removed. We found he was hearing to well and when we got his hearing tested, in a room with some distractions his hearing was below 40% but when no distractions into the 90%. THe doctor also said his tonsils were that big it would be very painful to eat which explains a lot to his eating habits. Now we can't stop him from eating but he burns it off so quickly that he sill doesn't put any weight on.
Any way will go now so I can get rady for the Track and let you know later how it all goes.

Ciao

Long time no blog

2008-10-20T09:51:00.003+10:00

Well after such a long time away from blogging I almost forgot my login details. So what has kept me away from Bebo and letting the world know what I have been up to?

Well i have been kept very busy with work. I have been away on courses all up and down the Eastern seaboard of Australia. I spent a number of weeks in Singleton , NSW. Then after a short time, like less than 2 weeks, I went away again for a number of weeks to Puckapunyal, an Army base near Seymour Victoria. Then once I returned from Seymour I had a week or 2 at home then took off with family for 10 dyas in Fiji. 10 day of sitting by the pool and on the beach, cocktails snorkelling the reef and just total relaxation. But no Bike. Got back from Fiji and have been flat out at work getting ready to instruct on a promotion course for some of the junior soldiers. Should be interesting as it is a course I haven't instructed on as yet.

SO how has the bike riding been?
Well as those who have wondered where I had gone, you would know that my last taregted event was the ADF National Championships. Well that was a disaster. 5 days out from the raod race i injured(strained) my lower back and could barely drive a car let alone get on the bike and race an undulating course for 70km, and then back up with a 60 min Criterium and 45 km ITT. So I ended up withdrawing. Since then I have ha a few races but haven't been able to string too any together in a row. Therefore no results either except a couple of minor places while in Singelton.

Lately though I have been hitting the Velodrome with the track bike and have seen some improvement in both disciplines. My flying 200m time, at last attempt was 12.87secs which I am happy with at this early stage of the track season. As for my Crit racing, I am getting sttronger and faster. My last race(2nd in a row) was the Abruzzo Cup. The race had a field of 90 riders and I managed to finish in the top 20 and still had a go off the front and tried to get away at least 3 times. Everytime I go off the front now the boys from the Virgin Blue team chase me down.
My nxt race is the Queensland State Criterium Titles on 26 Oct. Wish me luck!!

So what are the plans for the rest of the year. Well work is busy. The course I am instructing on will take me up to Dec 5, but then I go on holidays. 02 January is the start of the Bay Cycling Classic in Melboure and I am going to go down and give them a go. Some very tough racing against some very strong riders and teams. Be nice if I could have some team mates there to help but thats the way the cookie crumbles. There might be some riders I know from the Virgin Blue team there maybe we could look after each other. Who knows what will happen. There is some time to go before I get down there.

How is HYPE Energy Cycling Team going? Well after a series of sicknesses and work committments we are slowly coming back together and getting back on the race track. We are now looking into expanding the team and seeking additional sponsorship. WIth a few unsuccessful sponsorship bids. SO if anyone knows someone who might be interested in investing equipment in a cycling team and using them for additional advertising and product testing let me know.

till next time ciao

Wedenesday 29 April

2008-04-30T18:23:00.002+10:00

Wow, 2 days in a row.
THe course is almost over. Tomorrow is the second last day of the course but I have a 0630 start.
BUt having said that I have an early start I am still going to ride in. It is time to get the legs ticking over and what a better way than first thing in the morning while it is nice and fresh. Plus all the hills make it a nice workout, short but nice. It will certainly help get the legs ready for a hrad week next week and the intensive smashing they will get for the rest of the month to get ready for the Avanti CLassic and the Brisane Metropolitan Championships. Qiuetly I think our team has a good chance of a place in one of the 3 races. Fingers crossed. All I hope is that I can deliver someone to the line at speed or at least fresh enough to get through the chaos.

Sorry that this is only a short one but not else has happened today so I wont bore you with jibberish rubbish and just make stuff up.

Till tomorrow.

Whats been going on since last time I was here

2008-04-29T20:14:00.002+10:00

Once again I have been delayed from posting on here, but thats work. Anyway what have I been doing?
After having a nice strong week on the bike and really feeling all the base work I had done paying off even after a 4 week break from the bike and no racing for nearly 8 weeks, I headed back out bush to finish off the training I have been instructing on. This week was all about old fashioned dig a hole and that is your home for however long you are told style of fighting. These days we call it conventional operations. It is similar to Korea and Vietnam era warfighhting.

During the week we celebrated ANZAC Day (25th April) which was a nice day, mind you not much time off. The day started with a 0415 wake up and then coffee served by the instructors at 0445. At 0500 the dawn service started with all the course staff and some of the top performing students being involved with some readings and phrases. By 0530 the service was over and the bacon and egg rolls were devoured by all.

Once the ANZAC DAy service was all over, it was back into it. It started off with qualifying the trainees with anti-armour rockets and then when that was over it was back to the trusty hole in the ground and on with the fight.

So how much sleep did the trainees and staff get. For the first 72 hrs it averaged out to about 3 hrs /night. Not a lot, but it is designed to take the trainees right out of their comfort zone and push them beyond what they think they can do and then more.

Anyway, that week is now over and I back in barracks and finishing the course on friday. Today I had my first hiyt out on the bike in jut over a week, and it felt good, legs wee a bit sore before I started but they certainly feel a bit better now. Had a sprint against one of the teams sprinters and without any bike time ( and him having plenty) and it was even. SO with some sprints under my belt and some bike time I will hit it out again and see if I can secure the teams Crit sprinter position.
Speaking of the Team. We now have our kit ad teh ANZAC Day races were our first race as a team and all in all it was a successful race. We had a rider in the winning break all day and the team put in a good showing. As for a result I think it was 6th or 7th on the line. Not bad for our first race together. Shame I missed it but there will be more.
Any way time to go but I will be back.

Frustrations and bike riding

2008-04-20T14:14:00.003+10:00

Well my week of riding is almost over, and although very good it has been frustrating at the same time. It has been good because I have been able to get out on the bike and keep some of base training in check and not let the legs go too stale. The frustration comes in because it has only been a week and now I am going away again. Now this trip away is only a week long and will be relatively physical, but not in a cardio or bike fitness sense. There will be plenty of opportunity to maintain leg strength and endurance stuff. But this week hasn't been helped by the fact that I have had this annoying cough and stuffed up nose. So I am hoping that I can shake it this next week ready to hit the bike hard when I get back.

Now what will I be doing when I get back. I will be doing long rides and interval sessions daily and in some cases both in the one day. Speed sessions with the HYPE Energy crew and some leadout sprint training. At some time there will be a team launch, most likely at the Chalk Hotel(http://www.chalkhotel.com.au) which should be good. It will be a chance for Sponsors, riders, families and friends to get together and meet and have a relaxing start to the 2008 season.
One thing that HYPE ENergy Cycle Race team needs is a Shop Sponsor, somewhere we can go to look after our bikes and if possible provide race bikes to the team so that we have the best equipment on race day.

Anyone out there own a shop and want a team?

Anyway better go I have promised to cook dinner tonight for my long suffering wife, and I can't dissapoint her. The kids are being good and nice and quiet and I think Emma is going to go have a coffee with a girl friend whose Hubby is over seas on operational service for the ADF. SO she is lacking adult conversation, not that he provides much that is adult. He is more sex crazed teenager than sensible adult. Just jokes he is good to her and their kids.

SO till I return from bush, just after ANZAC Day, enjoy life and ride a bike.

The Bravo Sensazione continue

2008-04-17T19:21:00.003+10:00

To quote nearly every Italian Pro who has won a race, "I had good sensations today and thats what let me win".

I met up with Chris, one of my HYPE Team mates, and knocked out a quick 133km. We met at Sth Bank and then headed out to Mt Mee via Samford Village and then return. Had a steady headwind all the way out and then obviously the climb up Mt Mee. Mt Mee is a 6km 8%(average) climb, north of Brisbane. It is a very popular training ride in Brisbane. I haven't done this ride since mid last year and was surprised as to how I a ctually went today. Now I am not noted for my climbing ability, I am more of a sprinter than a climber. Now chris is a climber who can sprint, or is that a sprinter that can climb, I am not sure. But, all I can say is that once we hit the climb today chris just pulled away from me. I did however catch him half way up the climb. He got a flat tyre, and as soon as that was fixed we took off again and he pulled away again. He managed to about 2 minutes, or 3/4 of a banana, on me by the top of the climb. Then we made a rapid descent down where I led him all the way down using every bit of the road.

The trip back was long and the wind had picked up a bit from the outward bound trip so it made it seem harder than it really was. On the final run into town through Ferny hilss we started to pull some TT turns at pace and rolled along comfortably at 45 km/h. It is going to be good to get the whole team together for some rides and swap turns at pace again.

THe legs feel a bit heavey after todays ride but thats about it and with a night in my SKINS I should be well prepared for another ride in the morning. The famed Brisbane River Loop, with Chris and Adam, another HYPE Team mate.
Till then.

CIAO

Training coming back in

2008-04-15T20:03:00.002+10:00

Well I have now had 4 good days on the bike and each day feels better than the last. My only fear at the moment is the fact that I know I wont be on the bike next week and will have to start all over again. I know that my current work tempo is affecting my bike racing but there si not much I can do about that. After next week the bike trainig and racing will begin to pick up as my temmpo will reduce for a while and I can massage my work requirements a bit more in my favour.
So what will happen after next week?
The course I am instructing on wil be all finished and I will be back to my normal day to day work. Having a good mate as my immediate commander, even though we are both the same rank, allows me the flexibility to do some more training. Plus more superiors have said I can have a bit more trainng time now that I am in a team. Must remember to invite them to the Team launch.

Any way so how do I feel generally, on the bike I am feeling stronger and once a few more races under the belt and some race fitness I will be good. Off the bike, is a different story. While out bush last time I nearly lost my voice , then got a virus and since have had this annoying cough. Now I have a cold which is getting worse each day. Training over the top of it isn't helping but at the moment has to be done. The cough I have, is a bit chesty and starting to really piss me off.
Now this sickness is probably due to being abit run down and fatigued because of work, but there is no chance of resting at the moment.

Once my training kicks off I will keep you all updated as to all my daily obs-Resting HR, Wt, kms, and how I feel in general.
Anyway enough for today. Please leave a comment. Let me know if there is anything you wanat to talk about

Good sensations/ Bravo Sensazione

2008-04-13T18:41:00.006+10:00

Well after a nice sleep in with my lovely wife Emma, the first in quite a while due to work committments, I went out and had a solid hit out on the bike. After putting in a good warmup in the small ring, I jumped intot he big ring and put in some solid tempo efforts. Each effort was 10-15min long using the 53/15 and a95-100 rpm cadence. 4 of those through out the ride both into the wind and with the wind. The route I rode today was the standard Zupps route through the Northside and Bay suburbs. THe end result for the ride today was 80km at 32.8km/h average speed. Considering 3 months ago I was doing the same ride solo with an average of 34+km/h to come back after 4 weeks of no bike with an average of 32.8 is very encouraging. The temps today were quite warm and all in all I had soem really encouraging sensations on the bike. It appears the strength is almost there and some early form is within reach.

Once this course finishes I have about 3 weeks to get race fit and hit some form, not neccessarily top form. The first main event ofr me with HYPE Energy is the Avanti Classic, an Open event with lots of hills big hills. Then a week later is the Brisbane Metro Championships, which are my main focus for the team, as a win in either the Crit or the road race will be good for the team and the sponsors.

After the Metros I am away again with work down in NSW for 4 weeks. But this trip ahs plenty off opportunity for some real high level racing with some potential for some good results for the sponsors. With Gunnedah-Tamworth, Rosemount Estate Explorer, as 2 of the main races plus some local club stuff. But the weekend of the 5-6 July is my priority for this year with the ADF Cycling Championships. This year they are being held in Sydney in the middle of winter, yeah its going to be cold. By the way I dont think I have shown you all the new HYPE Energy Team jersey. So here it is.

Anyway this week on the bike is going to be great and a hope the Bravo Sensazione continues.

The small pleasures in life

2008-04-12T14:08:00.005+10:00

Oh my god, I cant believe it has been over a month since I last put a post on here. Really it doesn't surprise me s I have been so busy with work that I haven't had the opportunity nor the time.
But I will give you a quick run down of what I have been up to over the last 4 weeks.

First off I had a week out bush, doing Army stuff. Teaching new trainees the basics of Infantry soldiering. A fairly intense training week with minimal sleep and plenty going on at all hours of the day. The week finished off with a formal assessment of the skills they had been taught and practiced. If they failed this assessment, (no they don't die) they are sent back a couple of weeks in training to do it all again, possibly in a different location. Luckily for these guys no one failed, mind you some should have and it wouldn't have hurt them to redo the training package. But that's life I suppose.

After a quiet Saturday off, which involved repacking all my kit ready to head off again, I had a nice bottle of French wine with my beautiful wife. Oh and my Mum turned up from Victoria to see me and the kids. Sunday morning rolled on, and in particular 0430 arrived, and i was up again and waking my wife to drive me into work. I was going away again, this time or 3 weeks.

This 3 week training period was to be split into 2 packages. The first was a confirmation of the previous weeks training however stepped up a notch and using real live bullets(the type that kill if pointed in the wrong direction) and another formal assessment. This time we had some that didn't make the grade and much to the relieve of the staff and some of the trainees. That lasted all of 1 week before changing the focus of the training.
The next 2 weeks involved Urban and Security Operations, which is the way we are currently focused as a Defence Force.
So what did the trainees do. The learnt how to move tactically in an urban/built up environment be it a small village or a large city, how to fight in the same types of environments, how to search and clear buildings both single room/floor structures and multi room/floor building, how to secure buildings. Clear and secure are 2 totally different things. How to manage the flow of vehicular and pedestrian traffic and search vehicles. They also learned how to deal with riotous local populations as well as those who are pro coalition types. So all in all a very mentally and physically draining training period. Although physically draining, it had no positive influence on my bike fitness. I can assault a multi storey building and walk in full combat gear for as far as you would like but do you think I could ride my bike this morning without nearly dying every time some effort went into the ride. My fitness levels were certainly not helped by the fact that I got sick while away. I caught a virus off the trainees, lost my voice for a week and finished off the week with a chesty cough which I still have.

So now I am finally home and have 1 week at home before going away again for 1 week. So what have I done since getting home on Wednesday night. Went to work on Thursday and had a day at the grenade range teaching the trainees the intricacies behind using and throwing grenades, its not as simple as you might think. Then on Friday we had some trouble finding a sitter for the kids for the day so I was fortunate enough to be allowed to have the day off to look after Eilish and Rohan for the day. Now what a fantastic day it was. Went to the bank and caught up with a mate who is about to return to the Middle East for the rest of his Tour and then the kids and I went and saw High School Musical on Ice. What a fantastic show. The kids absolutely had a ball. They sang all the songs and cheered and whistled all the way through the show.

SO today is now Saturday and after returning from my ride, I have had a haircut, helped my darling wife with some of the house work(now that she has a job the house work is on the weekends) and have taken the kids for a bike ride around the block as well.
So why the heading for this post?

Sometimes when one is away for long periods of time you lose the pleasures that you take for granted. The kiss from your partner at the start and end of the day, a shoulder to cry on when things are a bit tough, having a muck around with your kids after a long day at work, sleeping in your own bed instead of having to sleep on the hard ground or in the dirt and mud, home cooking when all you have is Army combat rations, a shower, porcelain toilet.
For most people, these are things that are taken for granted but to our soldiers overseas serving our nation these are some of the most important things in the world and are longed for everyday.
So I urge everyone out there to give your partner a hug and thank them for all they have done and on ANZAC Day(25 April) spare a thought for the Soldiers, Sailors and Air Force crews who are half way around the world doing a job that the rest of you wont do and go unappreciated day in day out.

Back into my training

2008-03-09T18:04:00.000+10:00

Yeah!!
Got back on the yesterday and had a solid hit out over to the Muz and back. Didn't race but certainly gave the legs, lungs and the shoulder a go. Averaged over 32km/h and HR average was 144.
When I got to the Muz the Elite A guys were just finishing off the Pre-Race brief and then took off. As expected it was full gas from the first lap with a break away getting 10sec before the 1st lap was over. The break consisted mostly of Bike king and Virgin Blue guys with a few others, including Chris aka"Beetlejuice", who is one of the Hype Team riders. So it was good to see him getting away with some of the known heavy hitters.
After about 40+min Chris was out the back of the race, much like nearly every other non Bike king and Virgin Blue rider. So Chris and I sat on the side of the track watching and generally chatting about bike stuff.
Once the race was over we both left and headed home. the new team kit should be out in about 3 weeks. Apparently looks good even though it is another black team kit.

For the rest of the day the family and I headed north to Australia Zoo. Being in the Army has it benefits. FREE entry into the zoo for me and Emma and everyone else in my group gets 10% discount. now when there are a few people going that can sometimes be a good saving.
Now seeing as this trip to the Zoo was for my nieces 5th birthday, my Sister in law offered to pay for my kids to go. So that made for an extremely cheap day. Free. except for the drinks and anything else we bought inside.
The kids had an absolutely fantastic time. They enjoyed feeding the Elephants, Camels, kangaroos, watching the Croc shows, kids zoo(farm animals), the Tigers show and just walking around relaxing and having fun.
If you have never been to Australia Zoo then you must make the trek and go for the day it is excellent. Just take a picnic lunch as food is expensive.

Anyway went for another hard hit out toady, concentrating on cadence. Tried to maintain a cadence over 100 for the entire ride and to finish 2 hours later with an average of 90 Rpm was very happy considering the weather. After the ride put my Skins on straight away and still have them on and kegs feel good ready for another session tomorrow morning before heading into the city to get my new Tattoo.
Anyway will try to gets some pics a the new tattoo tomorrow for all to see.
Till then safe riding

Inury may delay season start.

2008-03-05T20:13:00.002+10:00

Well, had my MRI on my shoulder today. Depsite every one saying you can get claustrophobic in the MRI machine, ands maybe some slight trepidation on going in, I felt quite good even comforted in the close proximity of the whole process. It is a marvelous machine although quite noisey. Lots of thumping and banging while it does its' thing. But after about 30-45 min in the machine and maybe a small nap(thats how comforted I felt)and it was over.

I then had to sit around Holy Sprirt Northside for a further hour while I waited for my films to be ready. I had to take them back to work with me.

I got back to work and immediately reported to my Medical Officer. he had a quick look at the films and hinted that he couldn't read MRI films. He then said that what he was looking at was suspicously like a fracture. Now my concern levels are coming up. However he ended the visit by saying let's wait for the report to arrive and go from there. So now I have to wait until tomorrow to get that bit over and done with.

Hopefully it's not as bad as he thinks.

N.b I would much rather a fracture than a tendon or ligament injury

Will keep all posted. I am hoping that I can keep my season on track as planned.

Getting Back to the bike

2008-03-03T16:57:00.000+10:00

Well ,
Woke up this morning and not having to go to work today because of my shoulder was good. Helped Em get the kids ready for school and then sorted myself out. Got on the bike at 10am and tried to do an interval session but 30-35 minutes into the shoulder was hurting to much pulling on the bars to maintain the intensity of the interval. So I got off and let the pain ease of a bit and then got back on the wind trainer and rode for anothre hour but with little to no intensity. I rode as if I was out on the road just having a cruise around the Zupps route. Keeping the HR at around 150bpm.
Finally got off the wind trainer at about 1230 after about 1.5.hrs of peddaling. Legs feel good just wish the shoulder was the same.

Went and picked up the kids from school with Em which Rohan thought was pretty cool as it is the first time I have picked him up this year.

Got an email last night from Chris, one of my HYPE team mates, saying that he has seen the new team kit from Triple Play and it looks great. It is a carbon fibre pattern with the sponsors names all over it. Triple Play are putting the kits together as of today so hopefully wont be much longer until the local pelotons see it on the front of the bunches.
Hopefully the team launch should be good and a fewpwople turn up to meet the crew.
HYPE is to be an Elite B team and hopefully expnd into A as well which would be good. I suppose we're another team to take on the Victor B team. As soon as some pics of the team become available I will put them on here for all to see.

Anyway will pop into work tomorrow to have shoulder looked at and assessed if I should go bush or not. Hopefully there is a date for my MRI as well.

Anyway stay safe and upright.

Yours in cycling

"BUTS"

A quiet day

2008-03-02T16:44:00.000+10:00

Well, Today has been a quiet day spent with my son, Rohan. So lets start with this morning.

My wonderful kids let both Emma(my wife) and I sleep in. They are the best kids ever. Then when I got up at around 0730, which is a sleep in for us, I had coffee #1. Then after some Bacon and eggs for brekkie coffee #2.
Decided it was time to go get the other car from work, so off we went. There was some soldier at work wandering around no shirt on, no shoes on, and talking on his phone. A big no-no so I got up him and will report him to his supervisor/commander on Monday.
Then Rohan and I went home and kicked the footy in the yard, until he kicked it over the neighbours fence. So out came the soccer ball, and we played soccer.

Emma and Eilish(my daughter) have had a day at the shops collecting bargains and just doing girly things. Honestly I am so much trouble when Eilish gets older.
But they have had fun.

As for bike stuff today, not a great deal. I managed to sit down and watch Stage 7 of the Tour of California (ToC) on the free2view menu on http://www.cycling.tv/.
Really would have loved to have caught up with Groover, AMR, Whitey, Rhino, and all the Zupps crowd this morning for a ride and then more coffee, but I think fixing my shoulder is more important ATM. Maybe next weekend.
Tomorrow I think I might be able to get on the wind trainer, which will be good. Just see how my shoulder feels in the morning.
My shoulder has felt relatively good today. If I move the arm slowly there is no discomfort in the shoulder. But if I move it quickly in a pulling action, similar to pulling shoelaces, it really hurts again and then aches for while. the pins and needles in my little finger are still an issue. Although very faint it is noticeable and it is a concern as it indicates some nerve damage.
Time for another coffee.

Anyway until next time Safe riding and make the most of every situation.

THe first of many babbling sessions

2008-03-01T15:41:00.000+10:00

Well, Welcome to the first of many sessions where I can babble on about my time on the bike and if you are lucky experiences which,although very rare, have nothing to do with the bike.

So where do I start. I know, what has caused me to be starting this blog and not riding.

Well last week I was away with work. For those who have never had the misfortune of meeting me or seeing any other cycling related forum, I am a soldier in the Australian Defence Force(ADF). I was out in the field training new soldiers in shooting. See nothing special. Anyway, On Thursday night after finishing a long day of shooting I was opening the rear hatch of an Protected Mobility Vehicle (a bloody big truck covered in armour plate) when I felt a sharp pain in my right shoulder.

Knowing this to be a bad thing I immediately went to see the medic. He did his thing, Thank Gaz, and diagnosed it as probably a Rotator Cuff tear. Not good but a big inconvenience. SO Friday arvo I get back to my base and go see the Doctor, He sends me off to book in a MRI and then gives me the next 4 days off to recover.

So why is this injury an inconvenience to me. Well, My coach, who doesn't know of the injury just yet, so shhhh, has set my program to peak in time for the Brisbane Metro Championships and this is going to put a spanner in the works as I cant ride my bike for the next few days and at worst maybe 1-2 weeks. However that is dependant on what the MRI says.

Right now I cant even get on the wind trainer but I am hoping that by Monday I can do that instead of nothing. Maybe I will regardless just to keep the legs ticking over and my form in the right direction.

Enough on that stuff for now, but I will keep you posted.

Now while I have been out field I have had a serious lack of good coffee. Only get International Roast(Industrial Rust really) so today I have been topping up my caffeine levels again. I am going to go to ALDI and purchase a espresso machine this week so I can have my favourite espresso's at work.

Back to training stuff. Soon I have to go away for a training course for the Army which goes for 4 weeks. But when I return I will be able to start work a bit later so that I can train on my bike a bit better. So come the 01 May those who do regular rides up Mt Mee and M Nebo(Brissy climbs) I can come and join you. But me being more of a sprinter and not a climber you will have to go easy on me for a bit.

Any way for now I will go but I will return and keep you all in touch of what is happening both on and off the bike.