tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76556926945306115692024-03-14T11:08:42.520-04:00Chad's News - Cycling in North GeorgiaWelcome to Chad Hayes blog site of random thoughts. I'm a follower of Jesus Christ who just happens to be a cyclist and mountain biker. If you like any of these things then you might like my blog. I welcome your input and your stories of woe. Whether racing or just riding for fun in North Georgia I want to pass along every detail.
Ride safe, ride in groups. We need to promote cycling as something beautiful in the state of Georgia!Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00306386622733315527noreply@blogger.comBlogger91125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655692694530611569.post-54937566217664696912015-05-18T17:39:00.000-04:002015-05-18T17:39:45.514-04:00<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]--><br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="false"
DefSemiHidden="false" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="371">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footnote text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footer"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="table of figures"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="envelope address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="envelope return"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footnote reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="line number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="page number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="table of authorities"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="macro"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="toa heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Closing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Message Header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Salutation"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Date"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Block Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Hyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="FollowedHyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Document Map"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Plain Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="E-mail Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Top of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Bottom of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Definition"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Sample"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Variable"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation subject"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="No List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Contemporary"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Elegant"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Professional"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Balloon Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Theme"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="List Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="List Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="List Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin-top:0in;
mso-para-margin-right:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:8.0pt;
mso-para-margin-left:0in;
line-height:107%;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIiJL3oLA_LACOvAir_JpjEGt-BUWJGfEH0zt5y1Tx8q6Oy_tTG-lTsHy4wzHWVtcPRQWdpKz-CEn5_IGxd8r5rHOMCmH1GvsMf8V2GrQvzjnqNU8bY7GYcCPRJNLTdU5fGZmz7gUqA5Yd/s1600/a8qrxlypmiywewpinvrg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIiJL3oLA_LACOvAir_JpjEGt-BUWJGfEH0zt5y1Tx8q6Oy_tTG-lTsHy4wzHWVtcPRQWdpKz-CEn5_IGxd8r5rHOMCmH1GvsMf8V2GrQvzjnqNU8bY7GYcCPRJNLTdU5fGZmz7gUqA5Yd/s320/a8qrxlypmiywewpinvrg.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span class="color11">I’ve been asked by a ton of people what my feelings are about
cycling on Georgia roads since the death of 4 cyclists in two weeks a while
back. I refrained from talking too much about it to allow the dust to settle
and families to grieve. Many on social media are quick to judge and too ill-tempered
for me so I chose to stay away from the inconsequential banter that gets us nowhere. </span><br />
<br />
<span class="color11">Mine is without doubt a biased opinion because I love to ride bicycles. And my opinion
carries just as much weight as any car driver…because… I drive a car. Just as
much weight as any tax payer… because I pay way too much in taxes. Just as much
as any insured person because let’s face it, I pay my health insurance premiums
so others can continue their unhealthy lifestyles without regard to future
consequences. My opinion carries weight as a husband and a father of two
children. A small business owner. A Christian. A survivor of a rear end
collision that claimed the life of a dear cycling friend riding with me in
2010. A founding member of an Athletic Club dedicated to the promotion of
healthy living and fighting childhood obesity in the third fattest state in the
nation. And as a head coach in the High School/Middle School Mountain Bike
League. So I’ll tell you my opinion of what is happening with cycling in
Georgia if you care to read it. But let’s first agree that if you don’t ride,
heck if you don’t even exercise your body, you will never understand or agree
with me. You can just stop reading now and leave a little early in case you’re
slowed by an accident or a train or heaven forbid a cyclist.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="color11">This won’t be the first time I’ve given my opinion on
the subject of cycling in Georgia. I once stood in front of some State
Representatives along with 300 other like-minded cycling people and defended my
hobby. <a href="http://chadsnews.blogspot.com/">http://chadsnews.blogspot.com/</a>
It was very enlightening and I thought at that time we were turning the corner.
In my “speech” I outlined the problems as I saw them. In our state, unlike
other states it seemed, there was some anti-cyclist prejudice. By the same token,
we cyclists were our own worst enemy by behaving badly on the roads. I asked
the cyclists in the room to do better and promote better relationships when on
the bike. And while it was relatively easy to get a message to the cycling
community at the time, I’m sorry to say, that ability is starting to diminish.
Why? Because cycling is growing. Like it or not cycling is getting bigger and
bigger with more and more people throwing their uneducated legs over the saddle
of uncle John’s hand me down bicycle. And why are they doing that? Because they’re
fat! They can’t run with all that fat so the doctor said get on a bike! And
guess what happens when they start riding, outside, in the fresh air? They love
it! They get healthier, they stop medications, they start dreaming of joining
others and riding 30 then 50 then 100 miles on their bicycle. But what doesn’t
change is their long held belief as a driver that these are “my roads to wander”.
They stupidly believe they can just ride around and not be courteous, not
signal, not stop completely and not move to the right because THAT’S EXACTLY
WHAT THEY DO WHEN THEY DRIVE A CAR!</span><br />
<br />
<span class="color11">God made us all different. Some of us are kind and level
headed. Some are mean. Some weren’t spanked enough as children. And one thing
is for certain, we all have to deal with the most ignorant among us at some
point in life, whether you like it or not. Bad drivers, bad cyclists, bad hair
dressers. No one is trouble free in this world.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="color11">So what are we going to do about the increase in
cyclists on the roads? Nothing. Treat them as if you love them. Treat them like
the farmer on his tractor. Treat them like the Dads and Moms that work on the
road crews. Treat them like real people. Treat them fairly.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="color11">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">There's blame
everywhere! All I ask for is that if a motorist is passing either too close or
illegally then they should get ticketed. If they are at fault when a crash has
occurred then any/all citations be given to the motorist. If a cyclist is at
fault then they get any/all citations. Simply investigate all crashes equally
and citations given.”</i> – BikeFriendlyATL</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZWgYNlx4ofP7Z3h3ca5EMz-pcp0LqZaqIebr_B3XVtbFSZAeizoefmQ6w7XVcgQ4M5Ef1ctGAd6g1rL9506psN09CAiPLi-_DYqAWpCaTepPDJKBVYWzHSaJyWU8YHSwCbfhKDnTtIckV/s1600/11194484_871586819568458_7709889782787096083_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZWgYNlx4ofP7Z3h3ca5EMz-pcp0LqZaqIebr_B3XVtbFSZAeizoefmQ6w7XVcgQ4M5Ef1ctGAd6g1rL9506psN09CAiPLi-_DYqAWpCaTepPDJKBVYWzHSaJyWU8YHSwCbfhKDnTtIckV/s320/11194484_871586819568458_7709889782787096083_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Cycling is not going away, it is growing. Even the government knows it and I’m
no fan of the government but those people study statistics and spend our money
based on predictions. See those bike lanes being added to every new patch of
road? Hear about the city bike stations? Our infrastructure is being
retrofitted to ease the terrible burden those gangster cyclists are placing on you
busy drivers. Look, both sides have rights, both sides must follow the law. I
could chase down bad drivers in my car every day to make sure they get a ticket,
but why? The best we can do is education, advocacy and tolerance. Accidents are
going to happen. People will make bad decisions in a car or on a bike. Let’s
just try and keep it real. This is America after all.<br />
A good friend pinned this just the other day and I think I’ll end my letter
with it. As I said at the beginning, you may never understand why I love to
ride like I do. But I don’t have to understand why you love the stuff you do
either. The great thing about this country and even this state is that we get
to do them, for now, at least until the government tells you it’s bad for your
health.<br />
<br />
“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Cycling is one of the few remaining
places where the modern individual can stake a claim that is their own. Success
or failure is up to you alone-</i><br />
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The bike also prepares you for life in
a way that non-cyclists are not. </i><br />
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Pain and suffering? Civilians avoid it
at all costs. Cyclists look forward to it because it is on this highwire where
peak performance lives. Pain is our companion, suffering a welcome friend.</i><br />
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">This also enables the cyclist to
experience joy in a deeper and more profound way. When you crest the hill, make
the final turn or cross the finish line, the depth of emotion is unimaginable
to the non-cyclist.</i><br />
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Lastly-freedom...to most 'adults' it
is always just out of reach. For the cyclist, it is a turn of the pedals away.
All of the cares and concerns melt away into a solitary focus...and you soar
above the daily and trivial into a world of your own-you are the litmus-you are
the measure-you out run your demons and leave them gasping for air behind...” –
Kevin A.</i><br />
<br />
Thanks for reading!<br />
<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Chad Hayes</span>Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00306386622733315527noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655692694530611569.post-91434995605830413452013-10-09T17:43:00.001-04:002013-11-17T21:15:39.254-05:00Cycling is growing in Georgia...What do we do?I recently attended a meeting in Gainesville and spoke in front of a panel of State House Representatives about cycling. I'm not very good at speeches, just typing I guess, but this meeting was important and filled with great opportunity. Our local politicians had been under pressure from some constituents to do something about the ever increasing cyclists on the public roadways. There are plenty of options for how to handle complaints and I assume that they exhausted all options before submitting the terrible House Bill 689. In that bill were crazy things like putting a 7x4 inch tag on every bicycle in Georgia and requiring cyclists to ride no more than 4 to a group and always single file. There were also provisions for allowing the restriction of cycling on certain roads. It was a huge overreach and completely void of common sense. It was so ridiculous that I began to dismiss the threat of the bill and see the resulting onslaught of venom from my cycling brethren as a positive step in advocacy for cycling. So with that in mind I wrote this speech (some research plagiarisms exist). However during the meeting I scratched through some things because I either felt they were redundant or would take too much time. But here's the speech in its entirety.<br />
<br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:RelyOnVML/>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]--><br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/>
<w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
<w:Word11KerningPairs/>
<w:CachedColBalance/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" Name="Hyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin-top:0in;
mso-para-margin-right:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt;
mso-para-margin-left:0in;
line-height:115%;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Speech Notes</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">When I hear complaints about cyclists
on surface streets I am perplexed. There are stop signs, red lights, drivers
slowing to look for a parking space, business or address. Traffic must not only
slow but stop to allow pedestrians to cross at intersection, even if there are
no traffic controls. And when motorists need to parallel park, not only do they
slow and stop, but they must move in reverse. And, yes, of course, there are
delays caused by slow moving drivers, buses, tractors, work crews and road work. Even animals and weather cause delays.<br />
<br />
So, in light of all the delays normally encountered on surface streets, is the
delay caused by bicyclists really even irregular, much less intolerable? Or is
there some kind of irrational anti-cyclist prejudice at play in the intolerance
and animosity directed at bicyclists in the roadway? Why is that okay?</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 135%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 135%;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 135%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">No one – on a bike or in
a car - is immune to bad behavior on our roads. If I understand correctly the
reason we are all here is because you and those bending your ears care about
the safety of cyclists. And somehow a license plate on every bike in Georgia
will do that.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 135%;">
<br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 135%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Well first license plates
on bicycles doesn’t work. Other communities in the U.S. have tried to license
cyclists and found the costs vastly exceed any revenue raised and abandoned the
scheme. So this idea that the funds would go toward bike lanes or more law
enforcement is a pipe dream.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 135%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 135%;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 135%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Second, if the goal is to
improve bike safety, bike license plates won’t do much. Enforcing such a
requirement would make us all less safe by distracting police from real crime. And
if you simply want the ability to anonymously call the police on a cyclist who you
believe has done something wrong then you yourself are distracting police from
real crime. If you truly believe a crime has been committed then you should
call 911 and follow the cyclist. Shouldn’t be too hard since he’s on a bike. In
case of an accident everything works as it normally would whether the cyclist
has a license plate or not. He is responsible for his actions because in the
eyes of the law he is a vehicle as well.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 135%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 135%;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 135%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Another problem I have
with the proposed changes in HB689 is it will discourage biking for exercise.
And boy do Georgians need exercise.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 135%;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 135%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">From <a href="http://healthyamericans.org/">healthyamericans.org</a>: "Fifteen years ago, Georgia had a
combined obesity and overweight rate of 51.3 percent. Ten years ago, it was
57.2 percent. Now, the combined rate is 65.3 percent."</span></b></div>
<div style="line-height: 135%;">
<br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 135%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Speaking of exercise,
let’s talk about the packs of riders rocking spandex and carbon frames.
Complaints about group rides taking up space on the road for recreation
reflects the view that driving trips are serious trips, whereas bike trips are
optional. The truth is, most drivers are not simply going to work and back home
again. Many people drive (alone) to the gym to work out every day - how is that
different from donning a kit to get your workout on the road?</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 135%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 135%;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 135%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Here’s where I admit to a
problem I’ve seen with these groups: YOU MUST RIDE NO MORE THAN TWO ABREAST!
The law is clear. At no time <u>ever</u> are you allowed to ride more than two
abreast unless you are in danger. Especially on a very busy road. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Someone needs to take a leading role in the
group and give instruction before you head out and then bark it out during the
ride. And you others need to do your part! AND show some courtesy by singling
up! Wave and be friendly! It's up to us to create a positive impression for our neighbors.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 135%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 135%;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 135%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">When it comes to
educating our own there is a great organization called <a href="http://www.georgiabikes.org/">Georgia Bikes.org</a>.
Obviously bicycling in Georgia is growing at a rapid pace. It’s only going to
get bigger. Some articles I found call it the next Golf! Georgia Bikes has developed many Guides and Booklets to educate
cyclists and motorists. <b>Maybe we should make it mandatory that everyone who
purchases a bike in Georgia gets a <a href="http://www.georgiabikes.org/index.php/resources/educational-resources/bicyclist-pocket-guide">POCKET GUI</a></b></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 135%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><b><a href="http://www.georgiabikes.org/index.php/resources/educational-resources/bicyclist-pocket-guide">DE</a>?</b></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 135%;">
<br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 135%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">In two weeks, from October
18-20<sup>th</sup> in Roswell, GA they will host the Georgia Bike Summit. They
are bringing together advocates, elected leaders and transportation officials from
across the state for workshops and discussion on how to make Georgia a bicycle
friendly state. I give money to GeorgiaBikes.org and they are worth it.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 135%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 135%;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 135%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Bicycling fatalities in
Georgia rose in 2012 and do you know why? Because there are more of us! But in
Atlanta they had<u></u> ZERO fatalities because the city is well on its way to
becoming a top tier bicycle friendly city.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 135%;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 135%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Atlanta’s Mayor Kasim
Reed recently announced the city will double its miles of bike lanes and
multi-use trails by 2016, and just approved $2.5 million for high quality bicycle
projects that will help it achieve a network of safe, convenient, and connected
bikeable streets and facilities.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Now people may ask “Why should I care
about having a bike friendly community? It doesn’t benefit me.” Well just a
little bit of research told me that the Silver Comet </span><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">trail
from Smyrna to the Alabama state line west of Cedartown generates
approximately $57 million in economic benefit to the State of Georgia. Plenty
of other studies from across the nation will attest to the same impact.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) adopted a Complete
Streets policy last fall that commits its projects (our tax money) to
considering the needs of all types of road users when designing projects. When
GDOT adopts an approach that includes equal consideration for cyclists, you
know times have changed.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 135%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 135%;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 135%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">And right here in Hall
County there’s a committee called the <a href="http://www.ghmpo.org/">Gainesville-Hall Metropolitan PlanningOrganization</a>. This group has developed a plan for bicycle and pedestrian
mobility. They have created a <a href="http://www.ghmpo.org/GHMPO_bike&ped.asp">bicycle network map</a> that uses the
state-designated bicycle route along Hog Mountain Road, Atlanta Highway, and
Clarks Bridge Road as the “trunk line” from which to build. Employing things
like separate striped bike lanes on roads with adequate right-of-way and high
traffic volume; wide curb lanes on lower automotive traffic volume roads; multiuse
paths between corridors; existing town centers have sidewalks that can be
expanded; and natural waterways and abandoned rail corridors provide multiuse trail
opportunities. This extensive and highly researched plan can make it possible
to provide safe access between schools, parks, and downtowns. Is has already
been endorsed and approved by every local jurisdiction. They can be used to get
these large cycling groups out of the city and onto the low traffic roads that,
believe it or not, we’d rather be on. </span></div>
<div style="line-height: 135%;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 135%;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 135%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">I suggest we put our
energy into getting these types of locally beneficial plans funded instead of
creating more bureaucratic tax loss. The cycling community is making its best
effort to create positive change in Georgia. But most opponents don’t really
care to find out about that. They only care about getting to the mall a little
faster.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">So gentlemen, instead of blaming the
victim when a cyclist is injured, let’s support safer streets that keep you
from being inconvenienced and me from being incapacitated. Supporting the
things I’ve spoken about here today is the best way to handle the ever
increasing cyclists on the roadways with the bonus of positive economic impact
and promotion of healthier lifestyles. For me personally I’m excited about the
recently announced <a href="http://georgiamtb.org/">Georgia High School Cycling League</a> that will allow students
like my daughter to letter in biking!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">To me there’s only one way to go. Everybody
wins if you will shift your efforts to the promotion of healthy life styles,
complete streets, GeorgiaBikes.org advocacy and funding of plans to create it
all.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">The state legislature should be
spending time to work with these entities to assist with these efforts and not on
unworkable regulations that just create more animosity between cars and
bicycles on the road.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Thank you for allowing me to speak
today.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: small;">So there you have it. The speech heard round the world... or the room. Now believe me I had a lot more to say. But I felt the need to be precise with my cycling friends and my elected officials. Besides there were plenty of stories of love and loss (weight loss), defense of liberty and rights and freedom, and even one guy who rattled on about the brainwashing of our government schools. The bill was so stupid I won't bother telling you about all the antics and props some guys used to demonstrate how stupid. Some of these folks really had great and well thought out things to say and I'm going to paraphrase some of them right now.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: small;">My friend Stephen Dean said, "We all know what we're doing when we hop on our bikes just like I knew the risk I took as a police officer when I put on my gun. It's our choice and you don't have an obligation to fix us."</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: small;">During my speech I almost addressed the first lady that spoke that evening. She told us how she was scared when she came up on cyclists in the road. She said the roads in her area are curvy and hilly (just what we like) and she worried about our safety. Now normally I'd say the safety angle is just a way to get out of saying you don't like having to slow down but she was so nice and soft spoken. I wanted to tell her that we are grateful for her worry and because of her heart I'm sure she'll never have an accident with a cyclist. I imagined the scene she depicted, saying she had run up on cyclists stopped in the road. I wondered if those guys waved to her in gratitude and apologies. Probably not because if they had she would have seen them as something totally different... as real people. She probably wouldn't have come there that night. She probably would have forgotten about it like you would if a dog ran out in front of you.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: small;">One guy spoke about moving from New York to get away from the crushing taxation, regulation, and licensing of everything. Another told them about his experience cycling in the military while in other countries and how drivers here don't know how to act because there's no history of cycling here. I think we all looked at him with a little bit of envy. Another guy moved here after living in some very cycling friendly states and said we need to act on Complete Streets and then keep them clean. Promoting the healthy lifestyle brings it's own economic benefits to any region.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: small;">One guy told us how he commuted to work everyday on his bike. He works for a Christian company that helps the poor find jobs and get on their feet. He pointed out that in other countries a sign that you were a poor person was that you looked starved. You can't even buy food. But in this country, and especially in Georgia, we have pennyless gluttons (my words not his). His point was that the last thing we should do is make exercise of any kind more expensive or unappealing. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: small;">One lady spoke about the liberation of cycling. How discovering cycling had changed her both physically and mentally. She made the point that cycling on a path or in the confines of a park is not the same. The freedom of the open road is cyclings big breath of fresh air in the hard life of working people.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: small;">An elderly gentlemen read from American Jurisprudence Section 10 and I loved it! Before he read it he told the story of competing in the 70+ Georgia State Road Race Championship. What a cool guy! I want to grow up to be just like him.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: small;">The right of a citizen to travel upon the public highways and to transport his property thereon, by horse-drawn carriage, wagon, or automobile, is not a mere privilege which may be permitted or prohibited at will, but a common right which he has under his right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Under this constitutional guaranty one may, therefore, under normal conditions, travel at his inclination along the public highways or in public places, and while conducting himself in an orderly and decent manner, neither interfering with nor disturbing another's rights, he will be protected, not only in his person, but in his safe conduct."<br />-11 American Jurisprudence, Constitutional Law, section 329, page 1135 (Quoting the U.S. Supreme Court)<br /> </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: small;">There were only a few people who spoke out against cycling on public roads. The lady I mentioned earlier and two men who spoke later in the evening after I and all these others did. The first poor guy was brave enough to show up and then even to speak while surrounded by over 300 cyclists. When it became apparent that the gist of his whole argument was one of inconvenience (he didn't like having to slow down) then he started getting heckled by the crowd. Nothing he said or even the way he said it led me to believe he cared about our safety. "If I am trying to get to a wedding or a funeral I don't want to have to figure out how to get around a bunch of slow bikers!" His time ended after he turned red and screeched back at a cyclist who told him to learn how to drive. I wasn't happy with that whole exchange. It made us look bad.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: small;">At the end we finally heard from the infamous Jim Syfan. He began with an apology and explained his point of view and how he's been emailing his representatives each time he hears a story of a cyclist hurt or killed in Georgia. Lucky for them it wasn't each time a motorcyclist is killed or a pedestrian is hurt. That's about 100 times more emails. He told us how he's been made to be the bad guy in all this and how his only concern was for our safety. And I believed him. After listening to our stories of love for the road and the cost vs. income of licensing and the economic impact of bicycle mobility plans and the state wide advocacy available from GeorgiaBikes.org he must be convinced that we have a new and better direction for accomplishing the safety he seems to be dedicating his time to.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: small;"> Then he said, "I just can't figure for the life of me why you guys are so upset about registering your bikes!"</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: small;">And those were the last words I could hear him speak. The sympathy he'd built for himself was gone like the wind and the mob was against him again. After a few more people spoke State Representative Carl Rogers announced that the bill would be removed and no further action would be taken on it. The jeers became cheers and we all filed out to go find a burger and celebrate our victory.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: small;">So what did we learn from this experience? I'm wondering what's to become of all the passionate ideas and recommendations we shared? Will we cyclists be bold enough to police our own in the peloton? Is there enough awareness now to help drivers understand why we ride and that it's a beautiful thing? Will our elected officials use this information to make better decisions and champion the right plans?</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: small;">I don't know. But it's a good start. It polarized the issue and started the conversation. What I do know is that I will be riding with a hundred friends on Saturday morning in beautiful Clarkesville, Georgia. I will continue to wave to folks who pass me nicely. I will continue to single up for them. I will continue to influence those cyclists who care about what I have to say and to advocate for the sport I love. Beyond that the money I can control will go toward the entities that can reach a greater audience. I suggest if you really care about cycling safety that you do the same. Cycling on Georgia roads is growing and there are examples all around the country on how to deal with it. So let's deal with it!</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/Hl89mOIqbzA" width="420"></iframe>
Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00306386622733315527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655692694530611569.post-44542913176335940792013-06-28T15:05:00.000-04:002013-06-28T15:05:09.239-04:002013 12 Hours of Zombie Apocalypse<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifVJ56DgZFYJdW68mQIQCnEQXHYaGTadQYWGc3AEYR0fM7q6YCeYNz5v8rIfCtZAxibU619s0b_RbdbdzC1SAg2GUhCYy9b6UqPXs0y8MG9ZofbVMwh5FNxTWW62Xhs_mEv-210rwheUUX/s1600/ZombieBanner.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="120" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifVJ56DgZFYJdW68mQIQCnEQXHYaGTadQYWGc3AEYR0fM7q6YCeYNz5v8rIfCtZAxibU619s0b_RbdbdzC1SAg2GUhCYy9b6UqPXs0y8MG9ZofbVMwh5FNxTWW62Xhs_mEv-210rwheUUX/s640/ZombieBanner.gif" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYM1pv9HbffKETssy03X8gEXBh7mAxeE9mYw2VfRJU_CWKSM95HDVEvVTEH_hGFmq1sJMg1KSgCgVk2KHJV0SLDgO-PGIPhGS3QUxNRAvZ6XzXZmv-wHlxy0Lauc0SHnj9n0UTMHqks_Rc/s1600/IMAG0696_BURST002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYM1pv9HbffKETssy03X8gEXBh7mAxeE9mYw2VfRJU_CWKSM95HDVEvVTEH_hGFmq1sJMg1KSgCgVk2KHJV0SLDgO-PGIPhGS3QUxNRAvZ6XzXZmv-wHlxy0Lauc0SHnj9n0UTMHqks_Rc/s400/IMAG0696_BURST002.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Note the message on my number plate.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Some friends of mine like to talk about being struck down by the "cycling gods" on certain days or events. It's our version of karma. Although I don't believe in karma or luck or any other superstitions it's fun to banter back and forth about the rotten things that go wrong in cycling and mountain biking. My recent posts about the Fort Yargo 6 Hr mountain bike mud bowl and the glorious Gran Fondo New York that could have been are supreme examples of cycling god smite.<br />
But not this post. This race follows the path laid out the weekend before by the Jackson Brevet. It happened in perfect weather and with the best of friends. It was yet another great time on a bike.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbC9N3APjtd6NZ0L1dE5_SkKYGYvqZUktnbofDZrg-Au0QZ2KGkuHxGssYujNHnEXgJ1tVL-z6OzN-PxeKUkgof6JfK7ztVKUVc8QuvBG2KIXoAOAMptU0F2tIALW4ruhGJdcr9_5rpcGV/s1600/IMAG0694.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbC9N3APjtd6NZ0L1dE5_SkKYGYvqZUktnbofDZrg-Au0QZ2KGkuHxGssYujNHnEXgJ1tVL-z6OzN-PxeKUkgof6JfK7ztVKUVc8QuvBG2KIXoAOAMptU0F2tIALW4ruhGJdcr9_5rpcGV/s320/IMAG0694.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The 12 Hours of Zombie Apocalypse is the brain child race of <a href="http://www.chainbusterracing.com/">Chainbuster Racing</a>'s Kenny Griffin. Backed by his sponsor and friends at <a href="http://www.niterider.com/">Nite Rider</a> lighting systems he put on a night race from 9PM Saturday night until 9AM Sunday morning. Just shy of crazy. And to make it that much more fun he called it the Zombie Apocalypse and had a zombie contest and a zombie zone on the course so the undead could spook the riders. My girls loved it!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigWhipO_dsTX2XfX6xz_3Yu-dchx093gH0JwGs_26xr7gpeJ_rDeFIwrohQQGGtZ5y4GmFK7rQ7IAJbvFX3e9VTjDp0h562UB4pNXOWTuAttGpB5Vq9SsOIscElONWkvVX4N9AOylDMWEY/s1600/1shirt7_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigWhipO_dsTX2XfX6xz_3Yu-dchx093gH0JwGs_26xr7gpeJ_rDeFIwrohQQGGtZ5y4GmFK7rQ7IAJbvFX3e9VTjDp0h562UB4pNXOWTuAttGpB5Vq9SsOIscElONWkvVX4N9AOylDMWEY/s200/1shirt7_n.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWZ-v5tBbXRhZApcOr6es-wE8wNiEuB5gk9iTZwcnciD2-S6aw5DmOEawyh5L1i9zkWk8JyiKPojzY5eHqvbbW5qjhHdPmjdnoQ3Glypz3oXkxRCWTqMX2ntKkFYPpuh_piUQe2gFiihdv/s1600/IMAG0714.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="187" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWZ-v5tBbXRhZApcOr6es-wE8wNiEuB5gk9iTZwcnciD2-S6aw5DmOEawyh5L1i9zkWk8JyiKPojzY5eHqvbbW5qjhHdPmjdnoQ3Glypz3oXkxRCWTqMX2ntKkFYPpuh_piUQe2gFiihdv/s320/IMAG0714.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
They were also upset that I didn't bring our tent so they could spend all night being crazy. We'll do that next year for sure. Kenny also had a food truck there from Smiley's serving great food for dinner and breakfast. Add to all that the fact that the moon was full and the closest it would be to the earth all year and you've got the potential for fun that can not be beat!<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEq_rOamDlbAB6sPZN9J74ukU-_qVM-4T6yVYYHwWChgb_k6d1vyVhGeHZmxje75OS_NYDIgpPCZ-A7EFhS1ni_0s2WUQfPPxNiU6tBotU_XC9MkpOfjZk3VQlcB7fQj3NraE3Q-9-iacp/s1600/IMAG0723.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEq_rOamDlbAB6sPZN9J74ukU-_qVM-4T6yVYYHwWChgb_k6d1vyVhGeHZmxje75OS_NYDIgpPCZ-A7EFhS1ni_0s2WUQfPPxNiU6tBotU_XC9MkpOfjZk3VQlcB7fQj3NraE3Q-9-iacp/s320/IMAG0723.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Randy Hemphill still having fun at 2AM.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Racing on my team of four were David Shabat, Randy Hemphill and Trent Smith. These guys were pumped and ready for action. At least three of us knew exactly what we were in for because we'd done the <a href="http://chadsnews.blogspot.com/2011/10/24-hours-of-georgia.html">24 Hours of Georgia</a> together. Randy was happily ignorant about what 3AM in a mountain bike race means on the miserablility scale.<br />
<br />
Our tactics were simple; have fun and don't leave your team mate looking for you in transition. We do well if we eliminate the simple things that cost valuable seconds. Randy was all about being focused and having fun. I like him.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfjXuRWVBfZYjuPl8ViAeN6k3ZNu11WCD1Y18FFdYZFacw37myZZNhlzBqYfDwBu3NlVMPIVoFLo1Ewg0b0ee_ko3z3wroZOP-xqz7sESgyuleVuq3XOvL8hj-F9SMYCAh-qHIv8nAEbYX/s1600/IMAG0705.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfjXuRWVBfZYjuPl8ViAeN6k3ZNu11WCD1Y18FFdYZFacw37myZZNhlzBqYfDwBu3NlVMPIVoFLo1Ewg0b0ee_ko3z3wroZOP-xqz7sESgyuleVuq3XOvL8hj-F9SMYCAh-qHIv8nAEbYX/s400/IMAG0705.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Start was AWESOME!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDRk9rD6jwYbN4eNE5tT60feo0bB8mx9t2TGhoe-Ol7j6YcSzb0jyAyv-GECKlC1vFgIMyJNreDQnCBJl0VSKEi81Do_c7EOs-xhxQMzVMtfqCkTBwbbZ8PCApKz_2ddjA8hu81Xw2I9db/s1600/start.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDRk9rD6jwYbN4eNE5tT60feo0bB8mx9t2TGhoe-Ol7j6YcSzb0jyAyv-GECKlC1vFgIMyJNreDQnCBJl0VSKEi81Do_c7EOs-xhxQMzVMtfqCkTBwbbZ8PCApKz_2ddjA8hu81Xw2I9db/s400/start.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I've started many mountain bike races. I've felt the butterflies of nervousness, the excited adrenaline, the focused determination and once I even puked. I don't get nervous anymore, just focused determination but this start was all together different. At this starting line I felt like a super hero! I could hear my family and my team mates yelling my name! Once we turned our lights on we became rock stars! We launched from the smoke at the starting horn to the cheers of the crowd. It was awesome! Looking at the pictures I can see why folks were so excited.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkCGFhcJFqclEGyXnBdAR0wRkWjIpHU2LRODCc1zuzR-Js6cBaxXEdKjwVmYDNuv_XRrq7OCHwCub4_nT1Z6Z9HoQ1xFP0UmtT1kJuTeKe2gcNULLMOioqEWm7z5QgEeHpiLpL7pdrjiX3/s1600/the+start+full+rez.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkCGFhcJFqclEGyXnBdAR0wRkWjIpHU2LRODCc1zuzR-Js6cBaxXEdKjwVmYDNuv_XRrq7OCHwCub4_nT1Z6Z9HoQ1xFP0UmtT1kJuTeKe2gcNULLMOioqEWm7z5QgEeHpiLpL7pdrjiX3/s640/the+start+full+rez.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The photos were taken by<a href="http://hhmultimediallc.zenfolio.com/cb-2013-06-22"> H&H Multimedia</a>. Great job!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I rode away from the start with a small group of guys but we were all chasing some 95 pound kid I've never seen before. He took off like a rocket but I wasn't about to chase him because he started looking back. Looking back is a tell. It tells me you're tired. But tired or not he hammered far enough away that when we finally made the single track I couldn't see him anymore. I moved past the two guys in front of me and ended up dropping them. So I was alone and chasing the kid. Right up until I crashed. On the first downhill section at the power lines I came into the turn back into the woods too hot and slid down. It would've been ok accept that my chain was off and twisted. By the time I got it back on I'd been passed by 5 people. And evidently a link was twisted badly enough that with each pedal stroke it would catch on the cog above. It created a skip in my pedal stroke that would've really angered a lesser man. All I could do was finish as fast as possible.<br />
<br />
I came through the transition area second and handed off to Randy. The girls were over at the Zombie Zone which is where the zombies gathered until midnight to stagger toward the racers as they pass. They were having a blast. I ate and drank and filmed the transition of Randy to David.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyMkibOrQECRmQwkJwLb1yGLtfX0LFR1-2NrkB1CSUKIA3IyHx-VcUJwHqBDparO38kCPQBgfRYvDJ5tns2bw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
I want to say a special thank you to Todd Fisher. He didn't come to race, he actually came to support Dustin Mealor's solo effort with all his tools and a bike stand and positive energy. They set up a tent right next to us and Todd handed Dustin bottles all night.<br />
When I returned from my first lap I started telling the tale and Todd grabbed my bike when he heard about the chain. Before I knew it he had removed the bad link and put it back together. After that I didn't have another problem shifting or pedaling all night. Many thanks Todd!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyT4SPFQzcvmVehXKU1kRv4d4fCKoYrlxX8Ik--gr1lj8NrBkp9P9DzdRUd1DepetUGrHgZyIXRlzZv207rGg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
We raced past midnight and bounced between 2nd and 3rd. Then at one point we actually moved into 1st place. We thought our averages and our strategy would win the day... or night... as it were. I went to the timing table to inquire about our competition and here's what I learned. The team in 1st was a father, a son, an uncle and a friend. So they thought. The only thing they knew for sure was the father/son part. The son was their ringer. He's the kid I chased at the start. Probably weighs less than 100 pounds and is fast as lighting. They would put this kid out there for two laps at a time and then each of them would do one. So the kid would put them back into 1st every time he went out. His name was Jake Morman. They were very smart to work him the way they did.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikXeX0Lvwu5APCdIWX6g3UhMiEfxhOlTh5EhjgR4Wykra-HbbpFbJy37NZ781PAR6J8SAvSANkg_c1rtBKlDTl91LnRLajmDaYnw7JZ7_AEIc3C-f4Ys9tmJjLltukjd3LDI7vLImIky__/s1600/IMAG0721.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikXeX0Lvwu5APCdIWX6g3UhMiEfxhOlTh5EhjgR4Wykra-HbbpFbJy37NZ781PAR6J8SAvSANkg_c1rtBKlDTl91LnRLajmDaYnw7JZ7_AEIc3C-f4Ys9tmJjLltukjd3LDI7vLImIky__/s320/IMAG0721.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Around 3:00AM things began to deteriorate. Our bodies were starting to get tired and our minds played tricks on us. The best quotes came from David. He was convinced of the presence of Unicorns. If you hear him saying weird things in the videos don't worry... it all makes sense to him.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Gtn6blQEZPUpS-KlxEIe3t8__DCuEPoEgr5lzhviis9T0U1SqrUJRLj1E1RPxaeu2ECJtxdmUC9kZ7cpnAysf3z1EuGzIT0XYt8XzyXqGqdBHNEuHVuJ7kDDbKJctqE-m6GooyoS6mFK/s1600/IMAG0719.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Gtn6blQEZPUpS-KlxEIe3t8__DCuEPoEgr5lzhviis9T0U1SqrUJRLj1E1RPxaeu2ECJtxdmUC9kZ7cpnAysf3z1EuGzIT0XYt8XzyXqGqdBHNEuHVuJ7kDDbKJctqE-m6GooyoS6mFK/s200/IMAG0719.jpg" width="200" /></a>I realized then that we had been violating one of our rules, have fun, by worrying over the opportunity to get 1st. I expressed my desire to stop talking strategy and start talking nonsense and pick on each other. The guys were all about it and so in the waning hours before daylight we settled into a campfire and friends sort of mood. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dx6cN36LBhC43w45LDrluP4g6mRBC6YdUZPtOhlj6EK-ivcydLeXaVB3tbdgSzWDyG4luftDrG9K_q447duSw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1GiyPBFIKlLjaD75j2AEw4dnUTpag0rvBE7qGFUNyOqbXw8y3sC9tSIU_x_-7Nv5ps1WzIwF8Cq7LO0FlOnhi1sIOZ5kin6xC5nn5OAWhqEDjnfEmY57lwz8y2k-CbF8u-Si5Er9swRjI/s1600/IMAG0725.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1GiyPBFIKlLjaD75j2AEw4dnUTpag0rvBE7qGFUNyOqbXw8y3sC9tSIU_x_-7Nv5ps1WzIwF8Cq7LO0FlOnhi1sIOZ5kin6xC5nn5OAWhqEDjnfEmY57lwz8y2k-CbF8u-Si5Er9swRjI/s400/IMAG0725.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Finally the dawn. The morning always brings a sense of relief and anticipation. All the family members who slept in tents and campers started coming out to see how the race was going. And to get something for breakfast from the Smiley's truck. There was a heavy dew on everything that wasn't directly under a tent. The air was heavy with humidity but the temperature was nice and 60 degrees.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxPzI5-0pfW0SUxNK3bTmcr4SDF38tEyfqs8QEtqzE78FLg3SKPiqAJUiEYjrJKitwe_BXKg4FjvJAyJqUwIQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
This video shows "the kid" waiting next to David. He's going to leave and do two laps before turning it over to a team mate for one final lap. At this point our only hope was if they had a mechanical. So we just rode hard and hoped for the worst... for them.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzs87m_IE8vTg8OZbWJS9NfXNjF8-Rv6ozpS9VOdCCLDa7ismyXaK7_mKwJj_Os7moxuyvxLcf4dLPcPRFcYQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxzCJlwTboC9F-AhnCmzZ9Z2fwkH8jIWTr4W-P2mE1vijUOPI_p97-E0ThcnRBpJMJ-PlrlmIBDjdsjY_QZKQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGCb6_dyhDtcaoixuWeoA9RwaWkMPBA_YMtDgR5oebVbf4KWBV5dSzZUvuY4RKlThlwf7Ti26le5ArIvelTBKgO-lhsiaKej3T23bG1DGN5O6smEvBMlyo7SfQtBMiKXdOtBsSffvgqREH/s1571/close+up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGCb6_dyhDtcaoixuWeoA9RwaWkMPBA_YMtDgR5oebVbf4KWBV5dSzZUvuY4RKlThlwf7Ti26le5ArIvelTBKgO-lhsiaKej3T23bG1DGN5O6smEvBMlyo7SfQtBMiKXdOtBsSffvgqREH/s320/close+up.jpg" width="275" /></a>It all came down to the final lap I would be making. We already knew that I couldn't possibly make up the minutes we were down but there was always the possibility of a mechanical or crash on their part so I got jacked up for one more round of mash hysteria.<br />
Before I went to transition I ate two mustard packs (for cramping) and a double caffeine gel. It would be daylight the whole time so I didn't need lights. Trent came flying in and off I went to see what the cycling gods had in store.<br />
The course was much different in the daylight. You could see the lines you should take. You could negotiate the bridges better and avoid the poop mud. It was my best lap of the race. I beat their guy by 2 minutes but that didn't put a dent in their overall lead. That kid single handedly whipped our tails.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTyoFEn-P5WybaOkGFIttWfHjePy_PNeK-fYftoEFW-50s_3ZmsUaEakRKF6bFDsFiusTZWqcekj1Rl1CPPaW7pQLalpar-uonjYg52PRu4E2TdnnkZgbUj52OVwyvJPXz-Kn8ERgCXFsC/s1600/IMAG0746.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTyoFEn-P5WybaOkGFIttWfHjePy_PNeK-fYftoEFW-50s_3ZmsUaEakRKF6bFDsFiusTZWqcekj1Rl1CPPaW7pQLalpar-uonjYg52PRu4E2TdnnkZgbUj52OVwyvJPXz-Kn8ERgCXFsC/s640/IMAG0746.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A fine 2nd Place in the 12 Hours of Zombie Apocalypse!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After the fun of the awards we packed up and went our separate ways. David and I went to Cracker Barrel for some "mama's" and coffee. We talked about the race and our great families and how stinking tired we were. We enjoyed the stares from folks looking at our freaky Zombie shirts. People listened intently as we answered our waitresses questions about what we'd been doing. Both of us knew that in the days after this we'd look back on the 12 Hours of Zombie Apocalypse and be grateful for the fun and competition provided by mountain bike racing. We both agreed that Chainbuster Racing must do this race again next year. Can you hear me Kenny!<br />
<br />
________________________________________________________________________ <br />
<br />
Now I give you the short and sweet tale of woe from Dustin Mealor who despite being as under trained as I've ever seen him in recent years signed up for the Solo Expert Category. Hmm. Whatever dude. Dustin lasted half the night. His tale begins now:<br />
<br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/>
<w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
<w:Word11KerningPairs/>
<w:CachedColBalance/>
</w:Compatibility>
<w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]--><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8fZYfB_LgbdPjYn33336hA4zmmIgjHgc8jb4StwEB-HUbGdx0i5LzI075a_7t-x43Inf0eaOy1xD6keejO8rK-7DMwTE4rmuZ6gCpOjgn82xZ2z4s_8bDbLjV195u2HWecNvcQslcLmwb/s960/1043941_62042439_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8fZYfB_LgbdPjYn33336hA4zmmIgjHgc8jb4StwEB-HUbGdx0i5LzI075a_7t-x43Inf0eaOy1xD6keejO8rK-7DMwTE4rmuZ6gCpOjgn82xZ2z4s_8bDbLjV195u2HWecNvcQslcLmwb/s200/1043941_62042439_n.jpg" width="150" /></a><i><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">It's interesting to
notice things in races. I can honestly say that I had no idea how bad I
would perform this weekend due to just not being mentally ready to race
all night. Had this race been a day-time affair I honestly can't say
things would have turned out differently, but I was shocked
at my inability to soldier on like the "me" of the past. I ate poop mud hard on the first lap. It was one of those slower crashes,
which always seem to be the worse. I tried to go up and over a rock
formation and caught the lip just right. Threw me up and over the bars
and flat on my face, which had the blow lessened by my hand which I, in a newbie-like fashion, reached out to stop my fall. After that the rest of my
lap was fine.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"> <br />
<br />
</span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">The second lap I
ended up behind the dude that went to the hospital. Seriously, this dude
passes me at the top of the climb and I think to myself "man I hope this
guy is a fast downhill". Not that I'm a bomber on the descents, but
I can hold my own (thanks to the teachings of Craig Tinsley). No sooner
do I think this to myself than crashes in spectacular
fashion and I end up ditching via a slide to not bulldog his face with my front
tire. In a not-so-me fashion I ditch my bike and run over to him to make
sure he's fine. I stayed with him for probably 2-3 minutes until he
convinced me to get back on the bike and go. I found out later that he went
to the hospital with a separated shoulder.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"> <br />
<br />
</span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">The rest of the race
was just weird. It's weird in that I was on the bike and I was racing,
but I made so many small mistakes everything just seemed to run together.
I know better than to take breaks in these races. In the expert
class every lap and every minute matters. Yet, I seemed to stop almost
every lap to grab bottles that I had not laid out for myself and food that I
just had piled up and not planned well. I really thank Todd Fisher for
being there and supporting me, but this race just didn't happen for me. I
never could quite get into a groove. After five laps I just got tired of
being on the bike. I think at that point I just mentally said
"forget this" and gave up. Really not my style, but if you're
not feeling it you're not feeling it. Next year will be different...</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"> </span></span></i><br />
<br />
Dustin Mealor<br />
<br />
So there you have it. Another great adventure with friends and family. The next few months will be primarily road racing so not as much fun. But we'll do our best and not take ourselves too seriously. It is just a hobby after all.<br />
<br />
Can't wait to see you all out there!!<br />
<br />
Chad HayesChadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00306386622733315527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655692694530611569.post-30705805748120321992013-06-18T15:26:00.001-04:002013-06-18T15:26:42.068-04:002013 Jackson County Brevet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8uSh9KSz6-b16smepePYvtQcvpxT7Od_8zsl0KOxyrxk-78xAzwvhy2dMW3j69qrqlx22vobZT-9bzd4foTPTalJAQV2_545OsMfHuOcgMV8L7e14yaqOkq6P3WJ7VGLxaSqw1IqhZbiI/s1600/sitelogo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="128" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8uSh9KSz6-b16smepePYvtQcvpxT7Od_8zsl0KOxyrxk-78xAzwvhy2dMW3j69qrqlx22vobZT-9bzd4foTPTalJAQV2_545OsMfHuOcgMV8L7e14yaqOkq6P3WJ7VGLxaSqw1IqhZbiI/s400/sitelogo.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
This is a wonderfully supported ride! I did it for the first time last year and loved it! In 2012 I had a great group of friends with me and we had fun watching over a guy named Mike who was doing 100 miles for the first time. This year we had two guys with us who were both exceeding their self imposed limits, Alex Fuentes and Randy Hemphill.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYEzq9lDtkpQyrx9U6hDdSVTJ9Vq9h1Q8qn8zkxV4MrVN7J8PoK6eFfyWZhWOEURsAknr3FNL6TNeCMUKwRZutjY-YUbK74wE8tc0oVFwnjtekW7i4jhQoLdwh81OTeZ9iuj9FO4J5ynXD/s1600/IMAG0645.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYEzq9lDtkpQyrx9U6hDdSVTJ9Vq9h1Q8qn8zkxV4MrVN7J8PoK6eFfyWZhWOEURsAknr3FNL6TNeCMUKwRZutjY-YUbK74wE8tc0oVFwnjtekW7i4jhQoLdwh81OTeZ9iuj9FO4J5ynXD/s320/IMAG0645.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Now to be fair I don't think Randy had too much of a problem because the weekend before this he won the first triathlon he's ever entered. He smiled and seemed happy the whole morning. I've raced with Randy and I've seen what he's capable of so I wasn't worried about him. Alex on the other hand just started cycling this year on a hand me down Litespeed from his father in law. A very nice bike for a starter. Beats my first bike a Cannondale R400 aluminum frame of pain.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB_ViDqb1TxdShcXUIfizX43dLmAotzaYAAh2pPmNJAyqPHn7qV0UVA_5ShKVcIlGw4q-9bvRN8D1AshW7ZRtSw02vqoTAfpLR6HPOI8EzFw8DJcLTM89t-lwYYLF7wm9pw4ubmm216X7n/s1600/IMAG0650.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB_ViDqb1TxdShcXUIfizX43dLmAotzaYAAh2pPmNJAyqPHn7qV0UVA_5ShKVcIlGw4q-9bvRN8D1AshW7ZRtSw02vqoTAfpLR6HPOI8EzFw8DJcLTM89t-lwYYLF7wm9pw4ubmm216X7n/s320/IMAG0650.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Before this ride Alex had maxed out at 52 miles for his longest ride ever. I thought this would be a long painful grind for him that may require a helping hand from a friend. What actually happened was much more ego friendly. He should be very proud of his effort.<br />
<br />
Registration was a breeze and I was back at the car getting ready when Stephen Sisk rode up grinning. It struck me then how asleep I still was and how infectious a smile can be. When I smiled back there was instant excitement in the air. I jumped out of the morning funk and into the day I'd been trying all week to make it in to. The brevet! But it's really not a brevet?! It's a century ride, people! Marketing genius though! And I was about to have another great story to tell about something other than pain and suffering! So who cares... it's a Jackson County Brevet!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKcbkvbQhd-MI2gAdzeF0Y4_xk6YBGk4EEh2_DdaF3TOniV2Qiph1pRo87GyHSNQArFvR1aEI7Q5Gsb4PGiSvDbTpTagiEiQHKB7YWAO1SW_nvagQVhWb7o2uSQCRtKsrAZgaCwW7iDpyy/s1600/IMAG0651.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKcbkvbQhd-MI2gAdzeF0Y4_xk6YBGk4EEh2_DdaF3TOniV2Qiph1pRo87GyHSNQArFvR1aEI7Q5Gsb4PGiSvDbTpTagiEiQHKB7YWAO1SW_nvagQVhWb7o2uSQCRtKsrAZgaCwW7iDpyy/s320/IMAG0651.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The list of shiny happy people at the start with me are as follows: Stephen Sisk, Mike Withrow, David Latty, David Shabat, Kim Turpin, Alex Fuentes, Brad Donaldson, Tim Evans, Gene Whitmire, and Randy Hemphill.<br />
Lt. Governor Casey Cagle hung out and acted like he was with us. But he wasn't. He rode with the dignitary's in the lead out group for approximately 2 miles and then bid us farewell. I'm sure he had more important things to do that day but it was 65 degrees and the promise of partly cloudy?! If your cycling heart doesn't ache to be with us on a day like that then I say you're not really a cyclist. You may just play one on TV. But I know Casey, he's a friend, and if he could have joined us he would have.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizrD0qUKW8AkW_Unnd8GJ1w4pPy3yecyNfe1qdHTlWAWieHM9hKhZ3VxClt4nnheoow4CcliRrUryslL0mi4TZ9_EvTmBgb6pV6PS7Rt8wqcrdzgvOTYBIvQ6L1AfSezWg4l7cgLWmP-HL/s1600/IMAG0657_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="145" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizrD0qUKW8AkW_Unnd8GJ1w4pPy3yecyNfe1qdHTlWAWieHM9hKhZ3VxClt4nnheoow4CcliRrUryslL0mi4TZ9_EvTmBgb6pV6PS7Rt8wqcrdzgvOTYBIvQ6L1AfSezWg4l7cgLWmP-HL/s320/IMAG0657_1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The dignitaries prepare to lead us out.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The announcements were the usual tear jerking stories of triumph and fortitude. The organizer Robert Wilhiet started this ride to fund research of Aplastic Anemia. His wife was stricken with it years ago and he's been on a mission ever since. This ride happens to be the largest fund raiser for the disease in the nation! It all just fuels the fire for the ride.<br />
<br />
They start the riders in sections. If your average ride is 20+ mph you go in the first group. 2nd group is 16-19 mph average. 3rd group is below 16. They gap you by about a minute or two. We had police at every major intersection for the first 30 miles and some volunteer motorcycle gangs were babysitting us the entire ride.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8mber04wd2Df6V-ow0eMBJ1SGeHNvKYBZ0YCgXjrimBtzlFNtxGDHVLP5sKhP2M5lIX7jaUihwdIJL1c2cbAwPlzFM1Y8HNdplzr13FQM8DOKfs-QwZKl1QlAIZu27EQ1Aqpz5OcBhmpS/s1600/IMAG0659.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8mber04wd2Df6V-ow0eMBJ1SGeHNvKYBZ0YCgXjrimBtzlFNtxGDHVLP5sKhP2M5lIX7jaUihwdIJL1c2cbAwPlzFM1Y8HNdplzr13FQM8DOKfs-QwZKl1QlAIZu27EQ1Aqpz5OcBhmpS/s320/IMAG0659.jpg" width="307" /></a></div>
<br />
The ride out of Braselton felt more like a parade as we slowly made our way into the country. Once on the open road Stephen and I hammered out a pretty fast pace to get us off the front and to set a good tempo. It worked! But soon I started looking for some relief. When we looked ready to take a break there was David Latty and Mike Withrow to take our place and push the pace. We worked like that all morning with David Shabat and Randy taking monster pulls as well.<br />
I constantly checked on Alex who was in full survival mode from the start. He did the few things I had been telling him were imperative at your first century; EAT, DRINK, and STAY IN THE DRAFT. He found himself on the front a few times and kept the pace nice and high. He only spoke when spoken to. He was very focused.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5SZ1-pUlVqk2YGnNbTJsZjCkjbVWiTEZBWHqsETAsK3EKoAtNalEELoejxRii9qciRm1MU_lWe2X6FHf-sKu7s2Nr37sE0lbupaGTl1q5S-3BDnZ9ZqunRTAFo8XxHWTGLCImNaM4R8F0/s1600/IMAG0664.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5SZ1-pUlVqk2YGnNbTJsZjCkjbVWiTEZBWHqsETAsK3EKoAtNalEELoejxRii9qciRm1MU_lWe2X6FHf-sKu7s2Nr37sE0lbupaGTl1q5S-3BDnZ9ZqunRTAFo8XxHWTGLCImNaM4R8F0/s320/IMAG0664.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I guess I'd have to say that our favorite SAG stop was the 60's style one. They were playing Foghat and dressed like hippies. One guy had a giant afro wig on. It was there that Kim's rear tire blew out. We were almost ready to leave when the shot rang out. David and Randy fixed the flat while Alex and I smoked a doobie. We left that SAG feeling really good.<br />
My second favorite SAG stop was the Wizard of OZ one. They played music from the movie and were all dressed up like Lions and Tigers and Bears... Go ahead... you can say it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj96d2xvsISeRneL9G9JAxq6PafzItYT2tUphW37itW0IhEItSJ-C2pDsFcPOWoWbMh15fMIq8q-N9lfSS04rWGOVSZEjWOpiac3rKdlOyUpoR0V8TwG_VYMalpXA8k_oZvRomkXlo6NII3/s1600/IMAG0663.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj96d2xvsISeRneL9G9JAxq6PafzItYT2tUphW37itW0IhEItSJ-C2pDsFcPOWoWbMh15fMIq8q-N9lfSS04rWGOVSZEjWOpiac3rKdlOyUpoR0V8TwG_VYMalpXA8k_oZvRomkXlo6NII3/s320/IMAG0663.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I enjoyed the mini Cliff Bars the most. The cookies went down so fast I didn't taste them. The red Poweraid was the best drink. And yes I was kidding about the doobies. I only mention it because I just recently found out why they call themselves the Doobie Brothers.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrzignhKHN_w39gPU78o7iXKtTtHxCyYz5bgJgzsfoBbdVVa4Qnx4H4ZDXAHmUFV1cw17naWrPtcFxQ4EfnDKhy508gPz3AmyMA7Ghhb6hQ5hdoemrf0jkXIJkhz5i_PkXjFM_BrH7MxXk/s1600/IMAG0667.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrzignhKHN_w39gPU78o7iXKtTtHxCyYz5bgJgzsfoBbdVVa4Qnx4H4ZDXAHmUFV1cw17naWrPtcFxQ4EfnDKhy508gPz3AmyMA7Ghhb6hQ5hdoemrf0jkXIJkhz5i_PkXjFM_BrH7MxXk/s320/IMAG0667.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I fail miserably at trivial persuit.<br />
<br />
So we hammered away with fresh food and a smile. Well some of us were smiling. The miles were flying by but I knew the dreaded 80 mile bonk point was looming.<br />
I'd told Alex about it. I told him the best defense is a caffeine gel. I carry two caffeine gels for the last 20 miles of any century I do. No caffeine until then. When I dropped back to check on Alex he had actually listened to me! He really took my advice! A novel concept in today's society. I firmly believe that he made it to the finish, without a single push, because he focused and took advice. And he trained hard. Which helps tremendously.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOSxtaTzo71ENOwtH7t474tQzyZAGuvYVJcrZ4EWtSWKtFjtVL7wRcamU48XKAXh0XLkFccEJq3oPIHssPv4H0GMp6evAuqXA7RyBLiJ1hBV_QNGhWEbq4DONtRwJ17ZR8bc_qjW12rwGS/s1600/IMAG0665.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOSxtaTzo71ENOwtH7t474tQzyZAGuvYVJcrZ4EWtSWKtFjtVL7wRcamU48XKAXh0XLkFccEJq3oPIHssPv4H0GMp6evAuqXA7RyBLiJ1hBV_QNGhWEbq4DONtRwJ17ZR8bc_qjW12rwGS/s320/IMAG0665.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Our high pace finally broke Kim and others who decided to ease on back. But we were averaging over 19 mph and that simply must be maintained. Unless one of our newbies cried uncle. Which never happened. Alex hung on and finished with us without so much as a whimper.<br />
<br />
And then out of nowhere we rode up on Craig Tinsley and Taylor Graham. They had started with the 20+ group and for over 50 miles pushed a ridiculous 23 mph pace. It didn't take long for them to realize... that's no fun! Believe me, I've done it and I choose to enjoy the "ride" and save my suffering for a "race". When we caught up to them they looked beat and awfully glad to see us. At first I couldn't understand how we could have caught them since we took time with Kim's flat. But then Craig told me that they had taken a wrong turn and went off course. Yikes!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkRBLiigyiMnOk-Cp7L4nJ-uqsJeKERnQUrQxu7jEmADCEb8Ewz4M5RhcwoT1MNMyHfiF66YOVu3J2n4Ig7FVumQ41dl-ZGg3EWjMBmtvCuMkOxgehflV5G8HR2nqUfG4zZRKna2CuhRiq/s1600/IMAG0668.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkRBLiigyiMnOk-Cp7L4nJ-uqsJeKERnQUrQxu7jEmADCEb8Ewz4M5RhcwoT1MNMyHfiF66YOVu3J2n4Ig7FVumQ41dl-ZGg3EWjMBmtvCuMkOxgehflV5G8HR2nqUfG4zZRKna2CuhRiq/s320/IMAG0668.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
With less than 20 miles to go we all shut up and just pedaled. I'm telling you the last 20 miles are the hardest no matter what pace you kept. You just want to be done. You just want to be sitting at the table with some spaghetti and a coke. You just want off that saddle!<br />
The post ride meal was great! You could go with some pizza or spaghetti or both. There were rolls and salad and drinks. We sat and listened to Robert make announcements and give away stuff. It's all kind of foggy but I think both David and Randy got a door prize. Stephen has done every JCB since it started and deserved a door prize. I am writing this blog so I deserved a second helping of spaghetti.<br />
<br />
It was another great ride with friends! And we even broke a lot of guys own records by finishing the 100 miles in 5 hours 12 minutes and averaging 19.8 mph. I'm very proud of Alex Fuentes who proved to be up for the challenge and probably hasn't yet fully understood what he did. Nor has his taint.<br />
<br />
______________________________________________________________________<br />
<br />
The Tuesday before the Jackson Brevet I participated in a <b>Memorial Ride for Mike Walker</b> a fellow cyclist who passed away peacefully the Friday before. I didn't know Mike very well. I only had a few casual conversations with him over the years. I only knew him as the older guy who leaves early from the Tuesday Night Throwdown. We catch him somewhere during the ride and as the group passes you can hear each rider saying "Hey Mike! - Hey Mike! - Hey Mike!"<br />
He was a veteran. I didn't know that. He was 66 years old. Didn't know that either. But what took my breath away and what says the most about people of Mike's generation... he was the recipient of 2 Purple Hearts. Let that sink in for a minute and you'll understand why sometimes I could smack myself in the head for not taking more time to get to know people. He was a cool guy and I missed out.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLFqkrwqkAnPUPMITYnaEWu5KrXxUwSthlow6Wo6esnSBAhyphenhyphenXzW69b6E7muQ2V2Tj51LLZiulbuXre-McQIKz2kKfv_VxpF-Bk_x-c44e3eH9xHqeC4CKDv0PjA4onjKmo6i1r8AaEOUSP/s1600/964088_10200634460958997_606272748_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLFqkrwqkAnPUPMITYnaEWu5KrXxUwSthlow6Wo6esnSBAhyphenhyphenXzW69b6E7muQ2V2Tj51LLZiulbuXre-McQIKz2kKfv_VxpF-Bk_x-c44e3eH9xHqeC4CKDv0PjA4onjKmo6i1r8AaEOUSP/s400/964088_10200634460958997_606272748_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwcIZYPAYNycs0aNcxLlNzL6r-ADa_RPgNlI6p9-eCQL3TVyZ1J2AjmS5MbsYmv4fr6B1Xc5DU5wAoIvBqXAEayTjHiOA27WKHw9xHAbvpG3Bs4Zmx3ppuYrCWC6smALMOSVpcfnvuE0UL/s1600/IMAG0629.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwcIZYPAYNycs0aNcxLlNzL6r-ADa_RPgNlI6p9-eCQL3TVyZ1J2AjmS5MbsYmv4fr6B1Xc5DU5wAoIvBqXAEayTjHiOA27WKHw9xHAbvpG3Bs4Zmx3ppuYrCWC6smALMOSVpcfnvuE0UL/s320/IMAG0629.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Here are some quotes about Mike from some people who didn't miss out:<br />
<br />
<i><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">As
cyclists we're an interesting bunch. We whine about getting dropped,
brag sometimes about dropping others and complain about not having
people to ride with. I'm humbled by <a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/user.php?id=100000532212624&extragetparams=%7B%22directed_target_id%22%3A0%7D" href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000532212624&directed_target_id=0">Mike Walker</a>.
He showed up every Tuesday and left early because he knew he wasn't
fast enough to hang. He NEVER once complained about this. I would
often come up on him out on rides because he rode a lot. I'd always
make<span class="text_exposed_show"> it a point to slow down and chat
with him because he was just a cool guy to talk to. He always was in a
good mood and just loved being on his bike. I think we should all
strive to be like Mike. Tuesday a few of us are planning on riding the
upper short loop at a no drop regardless of who's there pace in honor of
Mike. See you there!</span></span></i><br />
- Dustin Mealor<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ASZJQgnLdctRD09gx-1a7X7yo3T3MPYgabCbgAnoUu5dhfjBzISKaBiC0hF4phOaabqbZ5dmc4xKXoAdaGlsEzMJ-6frzksN3h8gmBFBXHbXuwyhyphenhyphenOIQW_NwwilcdslZe6R-qr-xUE_1/s1600/IMAG0626.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ASZJQgnLdctRD09gx-1a7X7yo3T3MPYgabCbgAnoUu5dhfjBzISKaBiC0hF4phOaabqbZ5dmc4xKXoAdaGlsEzMJ-6frzksN3h8gmBFBXHbXuwyhyphenhyphenOIQW_NwwilcdslZe6R-qr-xUE_1/s320/IMAG0626.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/>
<w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
<w:Word11KerningPairs/>
<w:CachedColBalance/>
</w:Compatibility>
<w:DoNotOptimizeForBrowser/>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<br />
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<i>This morning there will be a memorial service for a good
friend and fellow cyclist, Mike Walker.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I told some of the guys we ride with once there was nobody I respected
more on the Tuesday Night Ride than Mike.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He shows up rides his bike, always smiles, never complains no matter
what.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He just loved to ride that
bike.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I saw him riding last Tuesday I
threw up my hand and he did the same as he pedaled out of town.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have been off the bike for awhile and I
have just started to ride a little again, I was looking forward to getting into
good enough shape to ride with Mike on Tuesdays.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That was kind of the plan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will think about Mike when I ride now, put
my head down, tough it out when it gets hard, and "Ride at MY
Pace".<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just like Mike.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And Mike, I know where you are now and the group
ride will be just a little better because you are there.</i></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<i>- </i>Danny Short<i> </i></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivqzQSW-ikLwnvba73IrJqjtnmS_uQjehq3drHaY8lZAtu4B1ynOqjxiMYU0iLsQChZpc8qRylORX9VnmnpTOlEWnXuB6QWicJiMhAQoU6bhe5RAF7FgLDUgv9V9idq3uB91q7R9TN0Esq/s1600/IMAG0628.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivqzQSW-ikLwnvba73IrJqjtnmS_uQjehq3drHaY8lZAtu4B1ynOqjxiMYU0iLsQChZpc8qRylORX9VnmnpTOlEWnXuB6QWicJiMhAQoU6bhe5RAF7FgLDUgv9V9idq3uB91q7R9TN0Esq/s320/IMAG0628.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<i>In
just a few hours, we will gather to say goodbye to my Uncle Mike. No one
I've loved has ever died suddenly, so I am still trying to wrap my brain around
the fact that he is gone. </i></div>
<i>
</i><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<i>
</i><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<i>"Mikey,"
as many of us called him, was proactive when it came to his health and
well-being. He loved to exercise. He watched what he ate. He was the most
disciplined person I have ever known and the youngest 66-year-old you can
imagine. I exercise regularly, but my motivation is to keep my butt from
creeping down the back of my thighs whereas Mikey truly enjoyed the process. He
was an avid cyclist. Loved snow skiing. He swam. He lifted weights. He'd been
a dedicated runner.</i></div>
<i><br />Mikey didn't have children, but he had us --
nieces, nephews, family, lots of friends and a wife who was his partner in life,
business, and without a doubt his best friend. No one will miss him more than
her.<br /><br />
</i><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<i>My
sister and I gathered photographs to best represent Mike's life at his memorial
service. Through these photos, one thing is evident: Mike's was a life
well-lived.</i></div>
<i>
</i><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<i>
</i><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<i>A smiling,
innocent boy with a skinned chin in a black-and-white school picture... A tan,
lean young man with haunted eyes earning two Purple Hearts in
Vietnam.... Marrying his best girl.... Working.... Going to college....
Traveling the world.... Pursuing his passion for aviation.... Always working,
reading, learning, and moving forward.... A quiet man.... An honest man.... A
better man would be hard to find.</i></div>
<i>
</i><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<i>
</i><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<i>I
never heard him say an unkind word about anyone -- never knew him to judge.
(I'd like to know how he managed that because personally, I've never had that
kind of restraint.) Mike never treated me like a kid. He talked to me like I
was his equal and always seemed amazed by my accomplishments, no matter how
small. That's a big deal to a kid and something I've treasured as an
adult.</i></div>
<i><br />
</i><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: right;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0z1T5R-Xuy1Z59kdzxTNrNoFWMqcvoJT-H6zSGvMMAsBemgy8KQN3SCBPcSAb0Y45slgc-1MDrdE2PDxC3XnV-f0c0UdTWFwR2Is278BGDNHG6yp6FCxl9XqNxtjcyXpfppZDn1jKGCw/s1600/mikebike.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0z1T5R-Xuy1Z59kdzxTNrNoFWMqcvoJT-H6zSGvMMAsBemgy8KQN3SCBPcSAb0Y45slgc-1MDrdE2PDxC3XnV-f0c0UdTWFwR2Is278BGDNHG6yp6FCxl9XqNxtjcyXpfppZDn1jKGCw/s200/mikebike.jpg" width="133" /></a></i></td></tr>
<tr>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">Mike</span></strong><br /><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">1947 -
2013</span></strong></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i><br />
</i><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<i>One
of the things that I am most proud of is being able to make Mike laugh. Where
he was a quiet, reserved and classy guy, I'm pretty sure I was born without that
filter most people have that keeps them from saying exactly what they think. I
think he and I appreciated each others differences.</i></div>
<i>
</i><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<i></i></div>
<i>
</i><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<i>As
disciplined as Mike was, he did allow himself a couple of indulgences -- fine,
red wine and excellent Scotch. Several years ago, I asked him to teach me to
drink Scotch. I joked that if I learned to drink it then he and I would have
something to do when I visited him in the nursing home one day. He obliged and
shared his finest (and Mike had the good stuff) Scotch whiskey with me. I tried,
but I never learned to fully appreciate this particular spirit.</i></div>
<i>
</i><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<i>
</i><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<i>But,
I can tell you one thing in absolute certainty. At some point today, I will
pour myself a couple of fingers of excellent Scotch and toast one of the finest
men I have ever known. Cheers, Uncle Mike! You will be missed.</i></div>
<br />
<br />
- Kris (Mike's Niece)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-24Z9f1X1Z3LLtijcVjWfZkcdc7R20czmh2d8AVq04xlbs2V_qzyGHnZsi07UI08AMMkqf76rGhtrrgy2TLy5zn8mryaqu9sqOGlKYgtjWeeAeKop1nUyxFuy3z4QP5uGMnF2zLwMO3db/s1600/IMAG0641.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="397" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-24Z9f1X1Z3LLtijcVjWfZkcdc7R20czmh2d8AVq04xlbs2V_qzyGHnZsi07UI08AMMkqf76rGhtrrgy2TLy5zn8mryaqu9sqOGlKYgtjWeeAeKop1nUyxFuy3z4QP5uGMnF2zLwMO3db/s400/IMAG0641.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading! Stay safe!<br />
<br />
Chad HayesChadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00306386622733315527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655692694530611569.post-91768701299582712652013-05-29T21:49:00.000-04:002013-05-29T21:49:59.995-04:002013 Gran Fondo New York<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGqwialMZp0YI9LgLxdLDEi14rMYhNASrHEOVSHKdS3K7nPN5LGCDc-BX3vQhuZoEIPK4KZDL-qrGeN0q8hC8U4FDBR8eg7nBmLwvhfIYhUUxxINgfhyphenhyphenVnDwVXwejhLPhuKRA4S7HTcVts/s400/960034489-2.png" width="400" /></div>
<br />
<br />
I decided that if I was going to pay $250 for a race it would have to be somewhere I've never been and it had better offer things I can't get anywhere else. After some research I settled on the <a href="http://granfondony.com/">Gran Fondo New York</a>. The race is part of the 2013 Prestigio Series by Cicloturismo/Bicisport in Italy. The PRESTIGIO is composed of the 10 largest and hardest Gran Fondo in Italy, such as Maratona dles Dolomites and Nove Colli. That set this race apart and I knew it would bring in some riders from Europe which would be fun to be a part of. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilEAfKEoKWF2GNpO5pJqCM4t4OnEksiJGqw9XuJsUwhH8Qg870qpUwmfUOEKRV_nGisfMyctssBF330tNNPEY9T6UvVRDQ_oWFgN0Kd-A6kOpCdJqkKf21DyXaiX9ywXcyn-USuojyEcir/s1600/IMAG0444_BURST002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilEAfKEoKWF2GNpO5pJqCM4t4OnEksiJGqw9XuJsUwhH8Qg870qpUwmfUOEKRV_nGisfMyctssBF330tNNPEY9T6UvVRDQ_oWFgN0Kd-A6kOpCdJqkKf21DyXaiX9ywXcyn-USuojyEcir/s320/IMAG0444_BURST002.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
Additionally there was the <a href="http://www.nycbikeexpo.com/">NYC Bike Expo</a>. This is where you must go to pick up your registration materials and goodies. They had many vendors and happy cycling people from all over the world. You sign in, get your numbers, a GFNY jersey, a bottle of wine, a cool GFNY head gear thingy (Lisa quickly commandeered it for herself), a GFNY water bottle and a really nice GFNY tool bag (tools not included). Plus all the vendor swag in the bag.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwgl2mtBeCyUJvcMvLNR3_MOrn9dH8Q_XsB5NaU52c8qEDgx9jE5-qQpjYmTKyZ6A-3gblhtzctzpXAQp6Mu2WA_wGdwqdT4rotMzQBIPqrH6WiGWeQ57QciAPlbiHPhFqAkcyyKjIVNow/s1600/IMAG0576.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwgl2mtBeCyUJvcMvLNR3_MOrn9dH8Q_XsB5NaU52c8qEDgx9jE5-qQpjYmTKyZ6A-3gblhtzctzpXAQp6Mu2WA_wGdwqdT4rotMzQBIPqrH6WiGWeQ57QciAPlbiHPhFqAkcyyKjIVNow/s200/IMAG0576.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lisa models her stolen head band.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Your number plate must be zip tied on the front of the bike (timing chip built into it), a sticker placed on the bike itself, a number pinned on the back of the jersey and they put a bracelet on your wrist that you can't take off or you'll die horribly.<br />
In the past they allowed you to drop off a back pack at the start which they would then truck to the finish for you. Since the Boston bombing though they give you a clear plastic bag you must use, and no you can't just put your bag in the clear bag... some guy asked... what a dope.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd3WefZfh8x1DCQxL9R-SsF-EkjFk0r4W38gmzrgtjtWDvXSP0lnlMzR-u_mIWrEEZCASkK-IaUOlGrMUX6g6Ok_VirSvhoH82CB_tYdniq8rrJIBMH-EP6HKXgNnKZrhyphenhyphenjPW4HfkII6aG/s1600/sportograf-38245213_lowres.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd3WefZfh8x1DCQxL9R-SsF-EkjFk0r4W38gmzrgtjtWDvXSP0lnlMzR-u_mIWrEEZCASkK-IaUOlGrMUX6g6Ok_VirSvhoH82CB_tYdniq8rrJIBMH-EP6HKXgNnKZrhyphenhyphenjPW4HfkII6aG/s200/sportograf-38245213_lowres.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
There are police officers at every intersection along the route. There are also Mavic support vehicles and ambulances everywhere. The SAG stops are monstrous with miniature water towers and Powerbar products and PB&J Bagels, etc. When you complete the course, if you complete the course, you get a cool medal and a fancy post ride pasta meal with all the trimmings. Sounds great doesn't it! I thought so too and signed up.<br />
<br />
Once David Shabat found out I was going he signed up and the plan took on new life. I decided to fly up with my wife and her mom (Ma) to make a little vacation out of it. Points for Chad! Oh yeah!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirdIaNvkiv0ONFBzBEaoBacpSC5DGLMhOa4wfCHfrfreJQMEMSxcMT12osQNjAvnDnLAwSY7WRnAX7AcpN6mOTpGMfSWRyjFtUqBjll7WK2AfBdrNydTJcIxS4NbP5zt8hzHuYda4P3ZYA/s1600/IMAG0443.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirdIaNvkiv0ONFBzBEaoBacpSC5DGLMhOa4wfCHfrfreJQMEMSxcMT12osQNjAvnDnLAwSY7WRnAX7AcpN6mOTpGMfSWRyjFtUqBjll7WK2AfBdrNydTJcIxS4NbP5zt8hzHuYda4P3ZYA/s200/IMAG0443.jpg" width="200" /></a>We flew into NYC on Friday morning and enjoyed our first New York City cab ride. An experience all its own. Then after checking our bags at the hotel we headed to meet David at the Expo.<br />
<br />
Checking in at the Expo was very organized. First you walk in and find your number on a big board of papers. Then you sign in on the race board (like the pros do) and pick up your race packet. Then your jersey and the goodie bag.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk7R1vJLb8HFqQLXNwrydQwj5QvAZPDkt8WQ-eEEMRDYMaqjNGR8XPxo3RciBkKzTFkCsOkKNlOzk92tUFlYvd0Zsv792rA9KClc-SSVIQWRBl2Vw3fZfpkJMwOVRX-pew97Fm8Q4TxGQ3/s1600/IMAG0446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk7R1vJLb8HFqQLXNwrydQwj5QvAZPDkt8WQ-eEEMRDYMaqjNGR8XPxo3RciBkKzTFkCsOkKNlOzk92tUFlYvd0Zsv792rA9KClc-SSVIQWRBl2Vw3fZfpkJMwOVRX-pew97Fm8Q4TxGQ3/s320/IMAG0446.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The guy before me signed his name Peter Sagan. Very funny.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Once registered we were free to fly in the expo. I enjoyed the food samples. Ma was quick to point out that I needed to do some Gran Fondo's in Europe... with them. There was plenty of clothing, helmet, saddle vendors as well as the Tour de France training bike guy who was fun. David bought a handy little multi-tool while I checked out the compression socks and clothing.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrmqAizLtKKaM3tNl4QOP4nN5PGKE801D41vCwQi14wSFXKCmimrzDBRvmz32MnQ6l0AyguSQv1Q0vHXQm5XQsYxuCrKIs2yNR-DFV6OZyV19EdtA8q6Py3hcRoRqe31UDM1z_uQiOItrF/s1600/IMAG0453_BURST005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrmqAizLtKKaM3tNl4QOP4nN5PGKE801D41vCwQi14wSFXKCmimrzDBRvmz32MnQ6l0AyguSQv1Q0vHXQm5XQsYxuCrKIs2yNR-DFV6OZyV19EdtA8q6Py3hcRoRqe31UDM1z_uQiOItrF/s320/IMAG0453_BURST005.jpg" width="222" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLXda1AOiupOMnpRERGRhaUm9wAkG_TjlCiMhw2iQadvO8JAXwnQ7EamSy-C7z3p_UoP1KwLGnyQxORhKxAgAHQoIHNxm5deSY48IS-MtSuk05GBhBAlOlR7HWbtTF1k0xEOUa4q-bsvvb/s1600/IMAG0458.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLXda1AOiupOMnpRERGRhaUm9wAkG_TjlCiMhw2iQadvO8JAXwnQ7EamSy-C7z3p_UoP1KwLGnyQxORhKxAgAHQoIHNxm5deSY48IS-MtSuk05GBhBAlOlR7HWbtTF1k0xEOUa4q-bsvvb/s400/IMAG0458.jpg" width="243" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Our time in the expo was great! I was so excited for the race now that I'd seen first hand how organized and friendly everybody was. I recommend you check out the links on their site to all the vendors, many of whom you've never heard of. I think you'll be able to buy something unique that nobody else has in Georgia.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7KbHaL8uUtE73s38p2eIR5YZ0tTyDEfsMmg0qUW8ad1zx3ptBpPd6ccc1alb9lg_y86BgfdXMOJSLqkHLHzFOjysmydX7PXkU8SGUYYOrrOp1JHEdop28-YiF6RF0GOPXN0ISJMqMuk2Z/s1600/IMAG0462.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7KbHaL8uUtE73s38p2eIR5YZ0tTyDEfsMmg0qUW8ad1zx3ptBpPd6ccc1alb9lg_y86BgfdXMOJSLqkHLHzFOjysmydX7PXkU8SGUYYOrrOp1JHEdop28-YiF6RF0GOPXN0ISJMqMuk2Z/s320/IMAG0462.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0fU_LIF56WjmT0CDituBIvp4rSk2CVhvXzBkjhhol6yUqrMoVM3gTRO3OufK7OoeYgf7rQ5FSp1kcGz4Vis3oXTtZV_MSmFH7LNl8sD1R6pOzr8U87KK-f3xnY0sTG2rnvC8TZqPgbzw8/s1600/IMAG0479.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0fU_LIF56WjmT0CDituBIvp4rSk2CVhvXzBkjhhol6yUqrMoVM3gTRO3OufK7OoeYgf7rQ5FSp1kcGz4Vis3oXTtZV_MSmFH7LNl8sD1R6pOzr8U87KK-f3xnY0sTG2rnvC8TZqPgbzw8/s320/IMAG0479.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyFgglXqxM-g6c8MzcxyeN5OfdyZS35-RHDOoXMERZ0GaHFldUM7215mzRi_djALXksHnicehiETlaL8R_vJA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
The next couple of days were filled with eating and walking and bus riding. Lots of fun seeing everything there was to see in New York City. David joined us for dinner on Friday night and on Saturday spent the day riding around NYC on his bike. Jealous is what I was. Pure jealousy. <br />
<br />
A few observations about New York City:<br />
It's always under construction.<br />
Time Square is smaller than I thought it would be.<br />
New Yorkers are not jerks they just don't sugar coat everything like we southerners do.<br />
Walk/Don't Walk signals are a suggestion.<br />
Everything is at retail so get that in your head before you go.<br />
The subway is the way. Or a bike.<br />
If you pay for a bus tour, stay on the bus for the whole tour. Hop on/Hop off is a massive waste of time because you have to wait (20+ mins for another bus). The tour is worth it because you get to see and hear about stuff you wouldn't have time to see and learn unless you are there for a week. For example; I wanted to see the Apollo Theater but didn't want to go inside. Walk or Subway to the sites you want to go inside. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dx3fEg2I1DFYxLWGQrHTrNRy5x2KiNIBJAvmAC1llGvtje7k9ZjMznRezF6DkZ_vsxr9lN6yhNMzs6uRgOq5g' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZFhsUn1hdPGJ2JCfjXI5krUwvam1TlaOFaC10yzkQRusuv0v9JPFzzrcdxNkfP6nMuQrMrjF_-a7rlIRwWZEwSf89-9wS8HEexqFcIPFo3ZFU2i1yNJsmtgl9wUkudtt_m6sa-Ppl4C0P/s1600/IMAG0465.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZFhsUn1hdPGJ2JCfjXI5krUwvam1TlaOFaC10yzkQRusuv0v9JPFzzrcdxNkfP6nMuQrMrjF_-a7rlIRwWZEwSf89-9wS8HEexqFcIPFo3ZFU2i1yNJsmtgl9wUkudtt_m6sa-Ppl4C0P/s320/IMAG0465.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>RACE DAY</u></b></span></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3-K_b5AXxTR8Cxd3e5mf_rRl-y51p7rMGLXONyYPKG1gFtoGXKQ7Mpj7OwyaMsuoFEpS78jhIx_e59jQnmymlQOBCqmYtnrwmGCWJIAVrkLD7kI3gX28ET93iH8qSHIUPXcFs3OfjOo4s/s1600/IMAG0491_BURST002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3-K_b5AXxTR8Cxd3e5mf_rRl-y51p7rMGLXONyYPKG1gFtoGXKQ7Mpj7OwyaMsuoFEpS78jhIx_e59jQnmymlQOBCqmYtnrwmGCWJIAVrkLD7kI3gX28ET93iH8qSHIUPXcFs3OfjOo4s/s200/IMAG0491_BURST002.jpg" width="125" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">3:30 AM</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My good friend David Shabat picked me up at my hotel at 3:30AM. We parked at the finish and rode our bike the 7 miles up state to the start on the George Washington Bridge. David's story is below and he can back me up on the facts I'm about to lay out. It was raining. It was 50 degrees. We couldn't see more than 100 meters in the fog.<br />
<br />
As we prepared to shove off into the cold we made the most important decision we would make all day... we rode out with our rain jackets on. This one decision probably kept the Gran Fondo New York from being the number one worst experience I've ever had on a bike.<br />
As we rode the seven miles to the bridge and that first blast of cold water and wind hit us I tried to muster some positive energy for the both of us by telling David more than once "this is the worst it will be all day". Well... I was wrong. But I really believed what I was saying. The weather man told me so before I went to bed. He said it would quit raining and warm up. Stinking weather man.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dye0NBAoXTxi0oAyquAYNjaJBpNKSSdnnVcfgWpzWKXlG3eD-TzXMjqBbmLQ1kVZVuptETvqpZimhyYmEvrcA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
The weather never cleared. It rained all day and maybe we felt 55 degrees. If you look at the start you'll see how badly most people were dressed for the weather. Most had only a base layer, jersey and arm warmers. We all huddled on the bridge for over an hour waiting for the start. At least we were dry but the wind was howling through the bridge and everyone was wet from the ride over. After waiting 45 minutes I had to pee very badly. So did David. And there we were shivering uncontrollably with bladders on overload. I'll let you read Davids account of how the start went.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPrZ6z1Y1f-l6pK2uh-kx9OIEQt9wv_3zS9R2lS8Lzq1Q4_BuJU1ALl_5R3oEOPwwaKt2bkOP1Wj_LfqJ4TG0VnL7PzOxppSDBqDX6rg96JoIH1RnhlTEZSw1Sx06sRdX8osZR0qC6RMBC/s1600/IMAG0500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPrZ6z1Y1f-l6pK2uh-kx9OIEQt9wv_3zS9R2lS8Lzq1Q4_BuJU1ALl_5R3oEOPwwaKt2bkOP1Wj_LfqJ4TG0VnL7PzOxppSDBqDX6rg96JoIH1RnhlTEZSw1Sx06sRdX8osZR0qC6RMBC/s320/IMAG0500.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9TsqAMNJjwdh7w-JHy1MhVAwl9EF8PJ8rphoAh-J-TgEkwBRxzZ1Y1zkAv0rCBNNTgXm2WBve4IqYLjWvVoFIhsVXyAe47jsu-OpYJQ5MkfHRBuypqtCm6xMU3OqaQX9S9JWwKlfz-lcD/s1600/IMAG0498.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9TsqAMNJjwdh7w-JHy1MhVAwl9EF8PJ8rphoAh-J-TgEkwBRxzZ1Y1zkAv0rCBNNTgXm2WBve4IqYLjWvVoFIhsVXyAe47jsu-OpYJQ5MkfHRBuypqtCm6xMU3OqaQX9S9JWwKlfz-lcD/s320/IMAG0498.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpIqXCCf8RhGV8KNsiY_eJE0u5VLGYfwx0-8S-YAY0JTO-SKlFLXrEp26TcCPlkkJil011f2AkJlLbiygfPf1qVClKA1nyj4YxgTRdBfspvRuUJcJaiH3CFDhPoNJhjVqUOvcwzsphzhuv/s1600/sportograf-38251796.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpIqXCCf8RhGV8KNsiY_eJE0u5VLGYfwx0-8S-YAY0JTO-SKlFLXrEp26TcCPlkkJil011f2AkJlLbiygfPf1qVClKA1nyj4YxgTRdBfspvRuUJcJaiH3CFDhPoNJhjVqUOvcwzsphzhuv/s320/sportograf-38251796.jpg" width="246" /></a></div>
<br />
We had jackets. I was so glad we had jackets. Once the race began I started thinking of survival. My core was good but I had to remember to eat and drink. You forget to drink when it's raining. The one thing I did wrong was not switching lenses in my glasses. Actually I blame the weather man for that too. David had the same problem. But my love of the "fire" lenses ended up being more than vanity because they let the right kind of light through. David's dark lenses were not as helpful. He had to take them off a lot so the road grime was all in his eyes. Fortunately he has a doctor for a wife and she put him on some antibiotics when he got home.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUF1KePG9dUUXY6Xpl9Buq972nR9FYpGDLH1t1D4CBtr6WzDlErUS25-VQ17HE7pdsn0AINuyTwzB4LLPJsHhFkUHrbLQF9x2byk5ssl9qDaPJnzVFdcL6PXEh58KCKkiZV1xWstLEsQea/s1600/sportograf-38274037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUF1KePG9dUUXY6Xpl9Buq972nR9FYpGDLH1t1D4CBtr6WzDlErUS25-VQ17HE7pdsn0AINuyTwzB4LLPJsHhFkUHrbLQF9x2byk5ssl9qDaPJnzVFdcL6PXEh58KCKkiZV1xWstLEsQea/s320/sportograf-38274037.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The plan in a Gran Fondo is to move ahead from group to group (OK that's <i>my</i> plan) using the draft of each group to save energy while keeping your average speed up. I immediately started racing in this manner and hopped on a few hammer trains. We started in the 1,500-2,000 coral so there were around 4,000 racers behind us.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Dr-IW1hqiOw9pPzDS3kNrtMCks5YGdosGmkTNI-reyBO25Ir5ikwP0BEuyWMm03qFaLahZo3n6vUCsHMez-2f1psB8h5v1eCR51TotCx7ajrcKG_m1ZbQV3TbTlFF8Ew4z5KvreMim2o/s1600/GFNY_Course_Map.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Dr-IW1hqiOw9pPzDS3kNrtMCks5YGdosGmkTNI-reyBO25Ir5ikwP0BEuyWMm03qFaLahZo3n6vUCsHMez-2f1psB8h5v1eCR51TotCx7ajrcKG_m1ZbQV3TbTlFF8Ew4z5KvreMim2o/s320/GFNY_Course_Map.bmp" width="275" /></a></div>
<br />
My tactics at the start changed somewhat during the first 25 miles. The roads in New York can be terrible. Big cracks and potholes. In a pace line you have little to no warning and I hate that some cyclists obviously see not warning you of the danger as a competitive advantage. The wheel spray is very annoying as well. So David and I made the natural decision to ride independently most of the time. With the rain and fog you had to be on high alert so we weren't able to make new friends. I began to feel so blessed that David was with me.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRecCuQc15JipUyTL5hdbLb6TTaK2J1K-HMRGNh4WM4pekihio_MpNzfW2ZUaA6VDa3nygQQDK4q5f5hi6MSty4xsuGTmMXtAhoJ-aYRhylvfsqztk6h6kufilw3xCfoicZhpWGDMqWHpz/s1600/sportograf-38273461.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="262" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRecCuQc15JipUyTL5hdbLb6TTaK2J1K-HMRGNh4WM4pekihio_MpNzfW2ZUaA6VDa3nygQQDK4q5f5hi6MSty4xsuGTmMXtAhoJ-aYRhylvfsqztk6h6kufilw3xCfoicZhpWGDMqWHpz/s320/sportograf-38273461.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Climbing Bear Mountain</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The ride up the highest climb on Bear Mountain was foggy and lonely. No pristine views. No sprightly forest animals. Just the sound of my rain soaked socks squishing inside my shoes as I mashed up the climb. It was a long climb that took around 30 minutes to complete. In North Georgia I would compare it to Neels Gap or maybe Wolf Pen from the rock pile. I found a nice easy pace and worked my way up it. I passed a lot of people and we exchanged common cycling phrases of suffering. The strange twist to this ride was that the climbs were the best part. No wheel spray and you were warm.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRRO6Y6zX00LuQyW6-5ykMj4h0zcxK1v4jkLOVeSYeShKdHnSuEsj9tUV4KOaP88Bp_bZ5NVdHqz1cacV6AkIipeBXG_uS2RsY7Rz-x-KcTyPwG-UDR3W_3K56ijR5hanmlYAza065w2Jd/s1600/sportograf-38238215.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRRO6Y6zX00LuQyW6-5ykMj4h0zcxK1v4jkLOVeSYeShKdHnSuEsj9tUV4KOaP88Bp_bZ5NVdHqz1cacV6AkIipeBXG_uS2RsY7Rz-x-KcTyPwG-UDR3W_3K56ijR5hanmlYAza065w2Jd/s320/sportograf-38238215.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Once at the top I waited for David and grabbed some drink and a Powerbar and ate a PB&J bagel. It was cold and getting colder the longer we stayed so we quickly got back on the bikes and began the most bone chilling decent in the history of mankind. Okay maybe not that bad.<br />
Before we left the top of Bear Mountain I snapped the only photo I took all day because of the rain. David wants you to know he had a mouth full of bagel and that's why he's not smiling.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5QLErMKhZb2UgeGwVn0WM4LRXBKLjRuBkMJuRLlZrqmFM63ZLeMz24CRjDZH3_ZaSN3WKZlL1_e3Z5AdSDIDFhtUzNka4MErc3OkDhi7KRs7IPWEpuVTrpL4QxPnZtaqUorRhj6yXIrvc/s1600/GFNYBearMtn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5QLErMKhZb2UgeGwVn0WM4LRXBKLjRuBkMJuRLlZrqmFM63ZLeMz24CRjDZH3_ZaSN3WKZlL1_e3Z5AdSDIDFhtUzNka4MErc3OkDhi7KRs7IPWEpuVTrpL4QxPnZtaqUorRhj6yXIrvc/s320/GFNYBearMtn.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top of Bear Mountain</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So we zipped up our jackets and started flying down the mountain. There were a ton of photographers from Sportograf.com all over the course snapping great pictures. That was another fantastic benefit of riding this Gran Fondo. When I got back home I received a link to all the photos taken of me during the event. I bought them all for $25.00. Love it!<br />
<br />
So here's the ones of the decent off Bear Mountain...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggdD7-m7_H6F_T46rFLtJQfyoCmSAoP0qh4FLsqvZoslLt3yUG-YWN4dEt9fpsSvdYM2yeHvu7yM_mrF_81twb_jrr9HtcG9tyC5DffXhVTGOiw31OhhyphenhyphenoXSuaFt-TrPosWbcW7TjuKdGp/s1600/sportograf-38240983.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggdD7-m7_H6F_T46rFLtJQfyoCmSAoP0qh4FLsqvZoslLt3yUG-YWN4dEt9fpsSvdYM2yeHvu7yM_mrF_81twb_jrr9HtcG9tyC5DffXhVTGOiw31OhhyphenhyphenoXSuaFt-TrPosWbcW7TjuKdGp/s320/sportograf-38240983.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bear Mountain decent. Thanks to Sportograf.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii4ltMhPeYGKjbIbe-aAEcvo1JoSoHbfMy_sd4m9yGZTsvK54YLtizUmaTTVlk468ig6n650Ce3haxj-jR0fDm3-YwqBKIAlesp-6777RLaZGmhHLiW5eslQoj7Bv0PP7Ch83WghbBbc_v/s1600/sportograf-38267710.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii4ltMhPeYGKjbIbe-aAEcvo1JoSoHbfMy_sd4m9yGZTsvK54YLtizUmaTTVlk468ig6n650Ce3haxj-jR0fDm3-YwqBKIAlesp-6777RLaZGmhHLiW5eslQoj7Bv0PP7Ch83WghbBbc_v/s320/sportograf-38267710.jpg" width="260" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIwhNvDzNgKX_jvd9Px64BVnwwt-0SRJaF2_q4axiJvPFjKpZJuGtek5r7ChH7J3mpVigEwec8MprM5zHGx86xNhBlqmteqAce59iiqieJqfTnI9QCHH5nw9HU86xTck_DRYKroE8t7R5L/s1600/sportograf-38283775.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIwhNvDzNgKX_jvd9Px64BVnwwt-0SRJaF2_q4axiJvPFjKpZJuGtek5r7ChH7J3mpVigEwec8MprM5zHGx86xNhBlqmteqAce59iiqieJqfTnI9QCHH5nw9HU86xTck_DRYKroE8t7R5L/s320/sportograf-38283775.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
After we made it out of the clouds the day brightened up a little. Literally there was more light, not the ride became easier because it didn't. There were still bad roads, steep climbs and the rain still fell. But at least we could see the towns and the people and every now and then we saw some great scenery. Just before this next photo was taken there were real Cheerleaders standing about mid way up the climb cheering for us. Poms poms and everything. Standing in the rain. What about that?!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRShY_u2zeUn_WanqFMKqUXNUmRCE5UMsPq_c7T1Padd2OyXLT0dAVsZCF8FRnM-UFL1o_-37D5ftePdRfl7Ax2HgiVKQXS2hzfE8MdAx8Q1-p-cyPbO3cuRZ2tJ-OnkD278Zj100y3_rI/s1600/sportograf-38280821.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRShY_u2zeUn_WanqFMKqUXNUmRCE5UMsPq_c7T1Padd2OyXLT0dAVsZCF8FRnM-UFL1o_-37D5ftePdRfl7Ax2HgiVKQXS2hzfE8MdAx8Q1-p-cyPbO3cuRZ2tJ-OnkD278Zj100y3_rI/s320/sportograf-38280821.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Not long after this particular climb David began to fall apart. I could tell the long drive and lack of sleep was about to take it's toll on my friend.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Ghvh4FGXHfG_lGjZB9huaeTWupprde_cg-p8b2kL70p2yNOA2z1pmPlxKgXrWpG-XkHunOtEczqU84U6G9OStn43lPDE197zktEF8on8LBZgrZU0gYVJTVVkeHq2Zc3VRoJjmXHRnE5P/s1600/GFNYTimingFinish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Ghvh4FGXHfG_lGjZB9huaeTWupprde_cg-p8b2kL70p2yNOA2z1pmPlxKgXrWpG-XkHunOtEczqU84U6G9OStn43lPDE197zktEF8on8LBZgrZU0gYVJTVVkeHq2Zc3VRoJjmXHRnE5P/s320/GFNYTimingFinish.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Timing Finish</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Now this is going to sound like an excuse to leave a fallen comrade but David will back me up on it. I knew David wanted me to do the best I could. It's in his nature to lay it all out there for a friend and I know him well enough to know that he'd be hurt if he thought I had good legs but sacrificed a better finish to stay with him. So I left him. With 20+ miles to go I left my wing man. But before you think bad of me just hear me out.<br />
The timing of the race ends 7 miles before the actual finish line. I hammered my head off to the last SAG where timing stopped for the race. Then I waited (only 10+ minutes) on David so we could ride in together. He was grateful that I did what I did and you'll read that in his recap below.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9-Zimaqus3EVX2YrAV10boWQVsJcpfkN7GZ1LJkFpO2VUFG2875GHbfyrWwqleJ9XjLdUIhIs8kO_8VZUYqDW4Dju3JnAj6eEdUibG_09G_uipJ-dPW27BUOxyrC2c23ptT8pjwlmsKRy/s1600/100_0035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9-Zimaqus3EVX2YrAV10boWQVsJcpfkN7GZ1LJkFpO2VUFG2875GHbfyrWwqleJ9XjLdUIhIs8kO_8VZUYqDW4Dju3JnAj6eEdUibG_09G_uipJ-dPW27BUOxyrC2c23ptT8pjwlmsKRy/s320/100_0035.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<u></u><br />
The ride back to the finish line was easy as pie. Because timing was over, it seemed to take all the pressure off and we rode and talked. Yet another great thing about the Gran Fondo New York was the blocked off lane on River Road. I'm sure motorists didn't like it but once we reached where it started it sure kept us safe and gave us a positive attitude. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy9FsiV2aweqYdUPRUfwMNHY1gO6Tu-1U1JySp4cffKt2ZbX1WdhxPChWM6V4H7BMgk14vCtls0PeClrS0MV9r-58xPHCQezHZ8cCLpACefoXrRfgTjGb9W9xrmayMyGwOIByGFT5upuRD/s1600/sportograf-38279460.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy9FsiV2aweqYdUPRUfwMNHY1gO6Tu-1U1JySp4cffKt2ZbX1WdhxPChWM6V4H7BMgk14vCtls0PeClrS0MV9r-58xPHCQezHZ8cCLpACefoXrRfgTjGb9W9xrmayMyGwOIByGFT5upuRD/s320/sportograf-38279460.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
There under the finishing arch was the relief we'd been looking for. The fan fair of a real pro race finish and a medal to take home. I wasn't about to make a finish line photo without David. He really made this race special. He drove up with my race bike and bag. He picked me up at zero dark thirty. And now, thanks to him, we had a warm truck to climb in to at the finish. My eyes are tearing up just thinking about it.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfUQHkAUwjxaqjEayXyn5zm95TDgKvbgXmTI17bbba5H8kKUIIcRpKv27tk0AUs8KF6qeqe0CJpZHswTRqkBhJYgbW-2yOzNXkZbMTFEjfC5rqek8-v9Q0xr_m9oINJijUjAulVcgzJ8H7/s1600/sportograf-38244072.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfUQHkAUwjxaqjEayXyn5zm95TDgKvbgXmTI17bbba5H8kKUIIcRpKv27tk0AUs8KF6qeqe0CJpZHswTRqkBhJYgbW-2yOzNXkZbMTFEjfC5rqek8-v9Q0xr_m9oINJijUjAulVcgzJ8H7/s400/sportograf-38244072.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gran Fondo New York... Done!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh69h-y9Ro1TKSYY01fB3z1QMrOU4-cCHusU-crZnWOKkNGknV38t4VXXh7wlr2v4JuIGYwWXCEExMTRLGZBlik0nONPvJN7G67YI_1fwlrsO8BkGvoSnINXQGDpzavNgCTvhyphenhyphenqkjCH1q-W/s1600/Chad_Hayes_Finish.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh69h-y9Ro1TKSYY01fB3z1QMrOU4-cCHusU-crZnWOKkNGknV38t4VXXh7wlr2v4JuIGYwWXCEExMTRLGZBlik0nONPvJN7G67YI_1fwlrsO8BkGvoSnINXQGDpzavNgCTvhyphenhyphenqkjCH1q-W/s400/Chad_Hayes_Finish.bmp" width="400" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
The number of riders seems to vary depending on where I read. It looks like over 5,000 people started this event. According to the results only 2,230 people finished. That's how tough a day it was. I'm proud of my effort and David should be proud of his. We had nothing left.<br />
<br />
Once back in a warm truck and in dry clothes we sat there for a moment trying to figure out if the juice was worth the squeeze. We were still cold. It was still raining. I had some tingling in my toes and for the first time realized my right knee was numb.<br />
I think we both knew that this was going to be a great time in our lives... we just needed a few days to think about it.<br />
David stared at the steering wheel like he couldn't believe it was real. Like maybe the truck was a mirage. We were both very tired and decided to forgo any finish line festivities and go get a warm shower. I must have thanked him a hundred times for coming up there.<br />
<br />
After a shower at my hotel room I walked with David to a cafe and we parted ways. I took the subway to meet my wife and Ma in Time Square and David sat down to eat a well deserved meal.<br />
<br />
I walked the streets of New York until midnight by drinking caffeinated beverages and eating chocolate. To say I slept good is the understatement of the century.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgddZLF0IawlCG98Po5Ec-3xcqg2SPO_iIIr2sTT7oBKaXWoJYn9c9JJMEHCCH0Uh8SfkajNjS14cCtyILTOn4iNEa8CUPf6NgIqznwCZBd9skgWi1PWE4Fq51120NuD1W0P9bdHG5yB0jp/s1600/IMAG0507.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgddZLF0IawlCG98Po5Ec-3xcqg2SPO_iIIr2sTT7oBKaXWoJYn9c9JJMEHCCH0Uh8SfkajNjS14cCtyILTOn4iNEa8CUPf6NgIqznwCZBd9skgWi1PWE4Fq51120NuD1W0P9bdHG5yB0jp/s320/IMAG0507.jpg" width="320" /></a>The next morning before we left for home we visited the 9/11 Memorial. I don't know if the previous days effort made me overly emotional but it was an incredibly moving experience. We were all drawn a powerful picture of why this town functions like a giant family. The adversity that David and I overcame the day before was suddenly put in its place. But it was accomplished in this place. Where the ultimate example of sacrifice and teamwork was demonstrated even to people like us... in Georgia. So I think our effort fit right in in New York City. It was a great way to end our trip. <br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYSyYmLE2oFD__kpBuh0RzFcQxQKcxXC3D1swxn3paRTfgb5IxwYvh-5msMFmVsPq_LCutt1vgBvkDkoZ9bL7IEQCr7yFLVynloWnLbe_564UhTcEZPzAA9pHy7A568v7zTxMTUNBZ8B70/s1600/IMAG0510.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYSyYmLE2oFD__kpBuh0RzFcQxQKcxXC3D1swxn3paRTfgb5IxwYvh-5msMFmVsPq_LCutt1vgBvkDkoZ9bL7IEQCr7yFLVynloWnLbe_564UhTcEZPzAA9pHy7A568v7zTxMTUNBZ8B70/s400/IMAG0510.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lisa and I at the 9/11 Memorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwKTemtZKyS99ugNqbK-BlKk0N_XfIAWML1_AHpXKLIHn3vTxKYv7gswhID_sEN8UldjvF7xOgXh1eA8PvGVg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<u><b>David Shabat's story of the race is an epic tale of woe. Here it is... uncut and unscensored...</b></u><br />
<br />
<div class="mbl notesBlogText clearfix">
<br />
<div>
Epic is what happens when you know it's going to be tough and you survive.<br />
Legend is what happens when you know it's going to be tough, it gets much worse than you imagined, and you survive.<br />
Gran
Legend is what happens when you not only survive a legendary day, but
when 50% of the people who started, don't make it, and you finish in the
top 1/4 of the toughest, most badass hardmen and hardwomen of the day.<br />
<br />
There are several stories going on for this event. I will try to tell them all. Makes for a long, but hopefully good read.<br />
The overarching story is about friendship.<br />
<br />
Chapter 1 - The plan<br />
Chad
started talking about Gran Fondo New York in the early spring this
year. In March, he signed up. Soon after, I realized Chad and I had
raced in Georgia something like a million times, as well as once in
Alabama and a few times in South Carolina. If he's going to race in New
York, my home state, by golly, I am going with him. Near the end of
March, I got some serious news about Chad's lovely wife, Lisa. I know
there is nothing more important to Chad than family. I kept quiet, but
waited for him to let me know if he would prefer to remain in Georgia,
should Lisa not be cleared for travel. Lisa pulled through great and
was cleared to fly, so we started making the plan.I have already
replaced one bicycle from in-flight damage. Even though my Ti bike is
supposedly indestructible, and has proven that it can handle my Ripley's
Believe It Or Not crash last year, I didn't want to put her in a box
and pray for the best. So, plan #1 is "Chad, Lisa, and Lisa's mom will
fly, but I'm driving". How can I execute such a plan, while not taking
off a week, or destroying myself trying to get up and down the east
coast AND ride as hard as my body can push?<br />
<br />
Chapter 2 – The Drive Up<br />
First
mistake: I left for New York on my 15th wedding anniversary. OK,
Lenka and I had both discussed when I’d be going. But, sometimes we
make plans, discuss the plans, and when it comes time to execute the
plans, we realize we’re more human than the Vulcans we think we are.
Lesson learned: no matter how rational you think you are, if you are
not leaving for active duty military service and have no choice – you
better be taking your wife with you, if you are going somewhere on your
anniversary. The ride up was otherwise uneventful, except for the 5
seconds of terror in NJ, when I saw a semi truck rip the driver door off
a road crew vehicle, when the road crew van abruptly pulled to the side
of the road and swung the door open with reckless abandon.<br />
<br />
Chapter 3 – New Jersey<br />
After
living and working in Metro Atlanta, the cities of the New Jersey
shoreline across from Manhattan now feel more homey than the make
believe subdivision “cities” surrounding Atlanta. The Weehawken Library
is a building straight out of Harry Potter. You don’t get that kind of
originality in Johns (artificial) Creek, Georgia. I had a new
appreciation for the neighborhoods and downtowns in Rutherford,
Lyndhurst, Weehawken, and Secaucus. I am truly sorry we desired the
kind of homes we ended up with; millions of 24”-on-center cracker boxes
on cul-de-sacs. The homes and businesses in these New Jersey towns have
character. The people don’t seem to fear each other even if they don’t
know each other. The men don’t grimace while trying to figure out if
you’re looking at them… looking to start a fight or something. The
women don’t demure or act incredulous if a bag brushes across their
shoulder when people are entering or exiting a city bus. I felt like I
could breathe, without having to buy, pay for, wire up, lock and load,
and defend the property on which I could finally sit back and feel safe
on. I felt like just another person. Just living. I was doing my own
thing, which was getting ready for a big bike race in a few days.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKbVRSwC2o0V4eqeApLe_G0iu1_HJAmWTufwmGZ9QUuBHwdcJhWqXWLw-2FY2GtHE3L-0hugiXu-4g5VXAfAoR6quF8kvfSlQ5mKhVCX9I10puoc4yxk34jOvyd7s51p45qnshiY20RPhE/s1600/IMAG0470.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKbVRSwC2o0V4eqeApLe_G0iu1_HJAmWTufwmGZ9QUuBHwdcJhWqXWLw-2FY2GtHE3L-0hugiXu-4g5VXAfAoR6quF8kvfSlQ5mKhVCX9I10puoc4yxk34jOvyd7s51p45qnshiY20RPhE/s320/IMAG0470.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Chapter 4 – Riding NYC<br />
Since
the race was not taking place in New York City, I HAD TO ride there on
Saturday, to enjoy the danger, the scenery, and stretch my legs from all
that sitting in the truck on the way up. I parked the truck at the
Gran Fondo finish line and biked up to the GWB, across it, and BINGO,
into The City. I flew down Riverside Drive with many other cyclists. I
thought they were doing Gran Fondo. Nope. New York simply has TONS of
cyclists. Mind. Blown. After 16 years in Georgia, I fell into the
trap that New Yorkers are a bunch of non-athletes who stay inside
buildings with the windows closed and the blinds drawn. No way. I met
people from all 5 boroughs who were enjoying the waterfront ride on the
last good day of the week.<br />
<br />
I pulled over and texted Chad.
He let me know where he and his family were going to be for a while –
8th and 47th. So, I jumped left a few avenues and headed down. WOW it
was so exciting to be in a sea of taxicabs and trucks. I expected to be
run over. Nope again. Mind blown. Twice. In one day. The cabs and
trucks seemed to treat me like just another species of roadus travelus.
We all kept decent pace and the traffic ebbed and flowed. It was
amazing to be part of the road travel ecosystem of New York.<br />
<br />
I
met up with Chad, Lisa, and her mom at the specified location. It was
very, very cool to be able to give an address and triangulate without
GPS, car, or a helicopter mom watching over our every move. I felt
young, free, and good in The City. I am no master bike handler, but I
do NOT recommend riding in Manhattan streets to anyone who has any
questions about their ability to handle a bike in a hot second.<br />
<br />
Chapter 5 – The Immediate Plan<br />
Section 1: Ride it, don’t race it. We’re only doing this once, so look around and see the place<br />
Section 2: Where to Park<br />
This
is a funny one that we resolved easily, but with outstanding results.
We were offered 4 different places to park, via the race magazine that
was emailed to us from the Gran Fondo staff. We could:<br />
a) Park in Manhattan near the starting line<br />
b) Park in Fort Lee, NJ across the bridge from the starting line<br />
c) Park in Lower Manhattan (near Chad’s hotel) and ride up to the starting line<br />
d) Park in Weehawken NJ at the Ferry Terminal – at the finish line and ride up 10Km and across the GWB to the starting line<br />
We chose d.<br />
Why? At first it made no sense to burn over 100 calories and spend legs on a hill climb, just to get to the starting line.<br />
When
we reached the finish line and immediately had somewhere to go for
shelter, changing, and securely putting up our bikes, it made all the
sense in the world.<br />
Section 3: Jacket or no jacket?<br />
Weather was in the 50s and drizzling when we parked. The weather was supposed to move out to sea and clear up.<br />
Answer: Packable Jacket<br />
This was my best contribution to the day, hands down. You’ll find out why.<br />
<br />
Chapter 6 – The night before race day<br />
There
was a wedding at my hotel on Saturday. One of the celebratory
activities was to activate car alarms and car panic buttons. The noise
stopped around 1 am. I had to be up at 3 am to pick up Chad from his
hotel in Manhattan and be back in Weehawken to park by 0415. I got
about 30 minutes of sleep; not exaggerating. Chad didn’t do much
better, with about 3 hours of sleep. So much for a well-rested night
before a big race.<br />
<br />
Chapter 7 – Race Day<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhstPfOVVnXPkt687IYCetMIBZF6BGdLMjgbdMr-TG_sbbH372h6sgLmRKI1FD3BCm6LMeTaqFcyX6s5vVq6SGlmpAzwYvvyeAAyMkKBr56RL0uFBADxdd_Oupd_B7NdCS5CmqtKlegki3b/s1600/IMAG0498.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhstPfOVVnXPkt687IYCetMIBZF6BGdLMjgbdMr-TG_sbbH372h6sgLmRKI1FD3BCm6LMeTaqFcyX6s5vVq6SGlmpAzwYvvyeAAyMkKBr56RL0uFBADxdd_Oupd_B7NdCS5CmqtKlegki3b/s320/IMAG0498.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Part 1 - Getting There<br />
<br />
We
executed the plans. I picked Chad up right at 0345. We were in
Weehawken just after 0400. GPS gave us junk, so I am glad that I had
gone riding the day before and knew where the ferry terminal parking
was, without GPS. We parked the truck and got our bikes, gear, and
clothes together.<br />
Back to "jacket/no jacket".<br />
JACKET. DEFINITELY.<br />
It
is rare that I can offer advice to Chad. It is always the other way
around, when it comes to everything from cycling techniques, to how to
look like a little less of a dork while on a bike (and while off the
bike, but wearing cycling stuff).<br />
This time, "jacket" was the word of the day. And the jackets never came off.<br />
We rode to the George Washington Bridge, nearly 10 Km away from where we parked.<br />
Chad
led the way. I got my first taste of what was to be another 80 miles
of having road spray from his back tire - called "rooster tail" because
of how it flies into the air - in my eyes, ears, nose, mouth, bike...
you get the picture. Remember, that water is from the pavement. Yes,
pee and poo and road grime and roadkill, bits of tire, metal, oil and
gas, spit, spit from chaw... everywhere all over me. You now know that
these "great thoughts" went through my head, before we even got to the
starting line. And it's raining the whole time.<br />
We made it up to
the bridge and followed people down the spiral sidewalk and onto street
level. Then we followed the mass of cyclists out the streets and in a
large circle, until we got onto the on ramp to the lower level of the
bridge.<br />
<br />
<br />
Part 2 - FOFAO - Freezing Our Freaking A**es Off<br />
<br />
Have
you ever been on a huge bridge? Have you ever been on a huge bridge
outside of the climate controlled protection of an automobile? After
riding 10K in the rain, in 50 degree weather, with the wind howling down
the lane, followed by crosswinds, and then down the lane again? OK,
but have you done it while having to pee REALLY BAD?<br />
We were
cold. It was a stupid kind of cold because normal people would've had
different clothes, not be on bikes, or not be there at all, since it was
around 5:45 am when we got on the bridge. Chad and I found our corral -
riders 1500-2000. We entered and went to the front. We were freezing
as soon as we stopped moving. It got colder as we awaited a dawn that
really never arrived, due to the cloud cover, rain, and wind. Sure, it
got lighter outside, but under the bridge, we were freezing and the wind
held us as captives on the bridge until the starting gun.<br />
We
became penguins. Yes, we huddled down on the ground, right there on the
filthy, 10 zillion cars and trucks per year bridge floor. Cycling can
be gritty. I never thought it would get gritty until today. For me, it
was always fair weather, fancy bikes, fancy kits, and fancy fragile
boys who barely outweigh small children and make bulemics sigh with
envy. Today was going to be for the hardmen and hardwomen. Today was
Rule #5 and Rule #9, and a bunch of other rules I can't remember. But,
it was also a day to break a few rules because there were many miles
when composure and looking good, or even looking halfway right, was not
part of the priority list.<br />
<br />
Part 3 - The Start<br />
<br />
Nothing
remarkable, except the sheer number of cyclists - over 5,000 cyclists
on the starting line, in the rain and wind. It was like 2 Six-Gaps
starting at the same time on a bridge that's a few hundred feet in the
air over a huge body of swiftly moving water. So, actually, it was
pretty remarkable. Chad led the way, while I silently had my first
glitch... my right shoe cover was partially lodged into my cleat, making
a right foot clip in nearly impossible.By the way, we had to pee since
about 5:30. The race started at 7:00. We still hadn't peed.<br />
<br />
Part 4 - Relief<br />
We
made it into Palisades Park and started riding the rollers, when,
BAMMO, there were two GLORIOUS porta potties well off the beaten path.
I apologized as I broke across all the lines of cyclists to get to the
path up to those golden johns. Chad followed. We must've lost 7
minutes just peeing. You know, this kind of thing is stupid to put into
the story, if you don't know one key piece of information: we were
warned that under NO circumstances, were we allowed to go potty ANYWHERE
except a porta potty (or indoor toilet). In other words, no pulling
over and running into the woods.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4XtaVmHI6vgsiJBntYndKlt-2vb_mLuxb0nplCsRjCm4GMjXRFD5mo6TxP6Hhpfyz9bAZLjHT5k2vlKdxJOMKQQ4FpDm8if1Cd97aSKjPNzhF4Pdmgltz9YamchRp_1GWgv21ztbYI-in/s1600/7654656_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4XtaVmHI6vgsiJBntYndKlt-2vb_mLuxb0nplCsRjCm4GMjXRFD5mo6TxP6Hhpfyz9bAZLjHT5k2vlKdxJOMKQQ4FpDm8if1Cd97aSKjPNzhF4Pdmgltz9YamchRp_1GWgv21ztbYI-in/s320/7654656_n.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<br />
Why is this even getting mentioned?<br />
I
am a trail racer. If I have to go, I go. I don't even look around.So,
this was a big deal because I spent 15 minutes barely able to turn the
cranks, for fear of my water breaking in a most unpleasant way.OK,
finally, we're back on bikes and feeling like new people. It's the last
time we'll stop to pee. However, I quickly fixed my shoe cover, so now
I can also pedal with both feet. JOY!<br />
<br />
Part 5 - The Real Glitch<br />
Riding
down one of the many "smooth roads" near the Jersey/Rockland County NY
border, I bounced so hard out of a pothole that one of my water bottles
blew out of its cage. Chad and I went another 200m before I asked,
"Should I go get it?". Chad said to go get it. So I turned around and
got the water bottle. On the way back, I was going at a great clip, not
wanting to make Chad wait anymore. As I approach the corner where he
is waiting, I start yelling "Go! Go! Go, Chad!" hoping he'll take off
and my speed will carry me up to him while he's accelerating when BAM! I
didn't realize there was a portable sign in the middle of the road and I
smack into it head-on, knocking it back... I stayed rubber side down...
until I went to negotiate the turn, while still in shock from hitting
the sign and WHOOOOSH! out my rear wheel went from under me, almost
like a skater pushing into a curve. Down I went. Chain dropped. Up I
went within 3 seconds. Backed the front derailleur to small ring, chain
back on immediately - no touching the chain. Heck YES! let that be
the worst thing to happen today! And as it turns out, it WAS the worst
thing to happen, thank goodness.Part 6 - Following Chad<br />
This is
where I offer a ton of gratitude to Chad for pulling me for a million
miles. I went faster than I ever could've under my own power with my
nose to the wind. I went even faster than I should have, period. I
paid later for the speed early on. But, I am super thankful for Chad
demonstrating that for 70 plus miles, I had enough to stay on his wheel,
slightly out of his slipstream much of the time, trying to avoid the
full force of the filthy rooster tail. Thank you, Chad! You could've
raced far faster than you did, but you stuck with me when I needed to
ease up, over and over. You were a very gracious advanced cyclist
pulling this little engine that could. I am very grateful.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMbfxiT8LKY6oN54rjpzlkeuJiZmFTYMFcu92dBWpVC5kYc64jEjSDw4UFbnZUUgj_IbW-xtBTg7TzgMepr-G7dnoyWh-kp9LRoPxVqQ4WOKU19LOQWNuH_hhKbaar1-nbeyrbG6-jdVjY/s1600/964671_10151471955012950_937623189_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMbfxiT8LKY6oN54rjpzlkeuJiZmFTYMFcu92dBWpVC5kYc64jEjSDw4UFbnZUUgj_IbW-xtBTg7TzgMepr-G7dnoyWh-kp9LRoPxVqQ4WOKU19LOQWNuH_hhKbaar1-nbeyrbG6-jdVjY/s320/964671_10151471955012950_937623189_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Part 7 - Falling Apart<br />
So,
we made it through Bear Mountain, and even some cuckoo straight up
vertical into a ritzy subdivision right after descending Bear Mountain.
But, eventually, the great pace Chad held for me all day, took me all
the way to Bonksville. I am not sure if I failed to eat enough, drink
enough, or it was what I thought... I simply ran out of gas in my
muscles and needed to get my head back together. I never cramped. I
just ran out of whatever makes my brain tell my legs to turn the cranks,
and the legs respond by actually turning.<br />
By mile 80, Chad had
pulled away and was out of sight. I was relieved because finally he
could go at his own pace, even if for just the last 20 miles. I was
feeling like a burden and now I was not part of the equation. So, I
pulled over on one of the climbs on Route 9w and ate a bag of
caffeinated Jelly Belly Sport Beans, and drank 1 whole bottle of drink
mix. I used my jersey to wipe some of the crap out of my eyes. I had
garbage in both eyes so bad, I feared wiping them, that it would drive
the junk into my corneas and scratch up my vision forever. Within
another 2 minutes, I was back on bike.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPk-qhGuHeWiCFQwNqRAKe9JD2I8-AVe_9E_Xu6PdGVeOO5mHuAtagazYVvdIdTAhp_q7rdgy769GWJsQ8i1uVRrMwlQniRI8T5ecp1IpAaBl89jkhYjqsmi5yAxzp21glhWbnEILaT2s-/s1600/994_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPk-qhGuHeWiCFQwNqRAKe9JD2I8-AVe_9E_Xu6PdGVeOO5mHuAtagazYVvdIdTAhp_q7rdgy769GWJsQ8i1uVRrMwlQniRI8T5ecp1IpAaBl89jkhYjqsmi5yAxzp21glhWbnEILaT2s-/s400/994_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Part 8 - To the Finish Line!<br />
I
got my head together and started slowly pedaling. 10.5 mph, 13.5 mph,
17.5 mph... ok, now, we're finally moving. Another series of rollers...
back down to the 36x28. Then back into the big gears to get my butt to
the finish line - at least to the end of the timed section (first 100
miles). I wore a cycling cap under my helmet. The cap had come down
over my eyes. My helmet had moved back on my head and tilted to the
side. I knew I looked like crap, but I felt like it, too, so I didn't
try too hard to get things back in order. Sure, cycling is a visual
sport. Today, with 90+ miles done, I was not about to care if another
cyclist felt like making fun of me. In fact, I would've welcomed an
excuse to get off my bike and put a beating on someone who had unkind
words for me after a day like this. But, it was a mostly silent slog to
the end of the timing section. Oddly, the caffeine and sugar was what I
needed. I stayed in my 50 ring for the rest of the ride after 9w. I
crossed the timing line in a gun time of 6:32:xx. I went straight to
the final SAG to eat some more and get some flat Coca Cola.<br />
<br />
<br />
Part 9 - The Return to the Truck<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4RtrLQfgZqyzLo_wT3h5vpN0oNqdaefYng9MQITJRrO887WrrZIhG1Cyv-yW2tISebb-MZ-piXk-jJs_azAunf7PtcqMP79sglhyHJqjy-W-KZkhuwoTCMf85y8c7r_QTH9TM4Y5K5Wuf/s1600/sportograf-38248987.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4RtrLQfgZqyzLo_wT3h5vpN0oNqdaefYng9MQITJRrO887WrrZIhG1Cyv-yW2tISebb-MZ-piXk-jJs_azAunf7PtcqMP79sglhyHJqjy-W-KZkhuwoTCMf85y8c7r_QTH9TM4Y5K5Wuf/s320/sportograf-38248987.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I
met up with Chad at the final SAG. He finished about 10 minutes ahead
of me. Awesome! I was feeling like a person again, and felt the weight
of the timed section off my chest. We took it easy, but not too easy,
the final 10K back to the "final" finish line at the Weehawken Ferry
Terminal. It wasn't always a picnic, as we had to deal with a LOT of
traffic, and the drivers were not pleased with all us cyclists. But, we
made it all the way back in no time, made it down the chutes, and the
photographers got some "great" shots of my disheveled appearance, along
with Chad looking like a true hardman. We had braved the worst cycling
conditions for the longest duration either of us had previously
experienced.<br />
<br />
---EPILOGUE---<br />
<br />
Every ride in lousy conditions will now be compared to this ride.<br />
<br />
We
made it back to the truck after crossing the official finish line,
getting our medallions, and the photographs. We were freezing... I mean
no feeling in hands or feet for 2 hours freezing. We peeled off what
we could, put our bikes in the truck, and drove to the oasis of Chad's
hotel room, where there were showers, climate control, and food.<br />
<br />
Chad
headed off to meet with Lisa and her mom. I grabbed a quick bite at a
nearby restaurant and started on my journey to Albany, NY, where my
buddy Matthew was waiting to drive me through the night to North
Carolina, so I could sleep off this heavy day of hardmen and hardwomen.
I recall nothing after the one stop we made to use restrooms, just
south of Albany. THAT is the sign of an awesome buddy who says "I'd be
happy to drive" and makes YOU happy he drove, too. It was a sleep like
the sleep after an adventure race. After all, I had been up since
Saturday morning, and it was now Sunday night...<br />
<br />
We made
it to Charlotte, I got Matthew to the airport, and drove back to Toccoa.
Matthew, I can't thank you enough and I hope I get a chance to repay
your good deed.<br />
<br />
Gran Fondo New York changed me. It wasn't
supposed to. It was supposed to be a fun ride with a buddy through
somewhat familiar territory. Instead it was 6 hours of a crash course
in HTFU and being a badass. It didn't turn me into a great racer or
even a great cyclist. Gran Fondo New York taught me that here is a
gritty side to cycling. You make your own magic on the bike. I don't
need to lament my non-running days. There are plenty of ways to torture
myself on a bicycle that have nothing to do with trying to hang on with
cyclists who are out of my league - mother nature, a sadistic race
director, and amazingly lousy roads for such a wealthy part of our
nation can all join forces to try to break you, and you can still break
into the top 25%... no small thanks to Chad, but it can be done, even by
a "former" runner who owns a bicycle. Of the 7,000 plus cyclists who
started this race, only 2,230 finished. Gritty.<br />
<br />
My great
grandmother used to say "one hot day doesn't make a summer" but one
cold, rainy, filthy, exhausting, masochistic ride for 6 and a half hours
can change you for the long term. <br />
<br />
David Shabat<br />
<br />
__________________<br />
<br />
And there you have it. <br />
<br />
<br /></div>
</div>
Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00306386622733315527noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655692694530611569.post-37497729246259211812013-05-23T12:12:00.002-04:002013-05-23T12:12:35.872-04:002013 LAP Century<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvjIZDUUpPSuEu2Wd4V6AxnzNG5QUSbFwaIKM5-Q6DtYxErcywf4STVLZ0y7kUtnJWATtqU5snUKZYiNuVbiZL1oSUlOsYW5YBZCdOgHQ3lv0mpiBXwvXd1pV7835OuRKEIWj2KB-gf0e3/s1600/529469_10151403939679998_313938927_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="371" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvjIZDUUpPSuEu2Wd4V6AxnzNG5QUSbFwaIKM5-Q6DtYxErcywf4STVLZ0y7kUtnJWATtqU5snUKZYiNuVbiZL1oSUlOsYW5YBZCdOgHQ3lv0mpiBXwvXd1pV7835OuRKEIWj2KB-gf0e3/s400/529469_10151403939679998_313938927_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The 10th Annual Lula Assembly of Praise Century was another great success. These folks really know how to put on a ride. I've lost count how many of these I've done (less than 10) but each one is special and always well supported. This year my plan was to ride with the birthday boy Stephen Sisk. He's 40 years old!! Just like me. And he's is in some seriously great fitness. We set a new Chad and Stephen record on this course which I'll tell you about later.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dz2O0Y4vYWip6RIkjYtbw7bmuF96iLfr9g8Sc_wk8wp3npqi5bLxyZm_-nqUKGvAZHoi48Dj0yMFSG9dc8nuA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0lcu_0bSzkOPM3rFiIekRj_Eci9Ctz5s3NCDbLrblV5Iu8Ck5rnBu0iDIGJ890MOdzPkOftCBURsKRAj5wGgeeeUXHEETMkV4lG1Yl-ZowSsO1Y935SkChR-wCneFR2u18XQzytVZ3fQB/s1600/IMAG0414.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0lcu_0bSzkOPM3rFiIekRj_Eci9Ctz5s3NCDbLrblV5Iu8Ck5rnBu0iDIGJ890MOdzPkOftCBURsKRAj5wGgeeeUXHEETMkV4lG1Yl-ZowSsO1Y935SkChR-wCneFR2u18XQzytVZ3fQB/s400/IMAG0414.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
There were lots of guys and gals that I know there. This is kind of like a home town ride for me because it takes place on the border of Hall and Habersham Counties in Lula, Georgia where men are men and the deer run scared. It's always funny to me the people from the church. They seem grateful but there's definitely a lack of understanding of why we would do this. Cycling is well outside the norm in some of these households. One lady told me she wished she could do something like it but she was too... heavy. I laughed and told her I used to weight 300 pounds.<br />
It was a lie but the look on her face was worth it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhovpMaJqg4aJps_B8sUobm1QLL9CVP102GBy6aJctCbwF4ZvQIM7oCoID8qVuA-1WHsqgyi3MmvJu5PlJw6zmTeZWQtVfZ6pKmtujos_Vxnnzu36iajjg5dMGLH-nOtnX4fxkodboFdP4y/s1600/IMAG0408.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhovpMaJqg4aJps_B8sUobm1QLL9CVP102GBy6aJctCbwF4ZvQIM7oCoID8qVuA-1WHsqgyi3MmvJu5PlJw6zmTeZWQtVfZ6pKmtujos_Vxnnzu36iajjg5dMGLH-nOtnX4fxkodboFdP4y/s320/IMAG0408.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
At the start were many of my favorite people. Pictured on the right is David Latty (Protagonist cyclist). Mr. Latty likes to hammer on the flat roads at such a pace that you start looking around to see who it is that's messing up your drafting relaxation. If there's only three or four of us his accelerations can hurt.<br />
I like David but sometimes he hurts me.<br />
<br />
Also at the start were John Lilly, Duane Mahon, Kim Turpin, David Shabat, Kim and Dylan Cantrell, Star Bridges, Dustin Mealor, Craig Tinsley, Sean Philyaw... that's all I can think of right now.<br />
<br />
Here's some other photos from the start...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9egykZpdr6Nk3yJgHDiQ_T_NAJiccMMa6y9nGQRexkiTv3ida0H94MTdzu1thwRdxawPn1BfN2CCA7rySCNNqdqE-c8bigKJ3BXuEBkBmcBezjzcrpOLD8-RDRQpnjkG2hGMrtgsgwjYW/s1600/IMAG0409.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9egykZpdr6Nk3yJgHDiQ_T_NAJiccMMa6y9nGQRexkiTv3ida0H94MTdzu1thwRdxawPn1BfN2CCA7rySCNNqdqE-c8bigKJ3BXuEBkBmcBezjzcrpOLD8-RDRQpnjkG2hGMrtgsgwjYW/s320/IMAG0409.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKfe84TOvuGwSJ5nnJ0juB7TMCybondTh_5UipSBmAClLnj-cXpmi11qMvrWwTh-0M_48gF3Y-V79DPJnkWhTlCe2yQIjD5v4tdOm0NA33X5rU4JFz_ITHs4wVoFC3P4VNCjV6a2owjsj7/s1600/IMAG0410.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKfe84TOvuGwSJ5nnJ0juB7TMCybondTh_5UipSBmAClLnj-cXpmi11qMvrWwTh-0M_48gF3Y-V79DPJnkWhTlCe2yQIjD5v4tdOm0NA33X5rU4JFz_ITHs4wVoFC3P4VNCjV6a2owjsj7/s320/IMAG0410.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcmiqR9d_eK9e2xIumlIPSd-U5IyZCCy2TYxo9RXDOJgwboWasSGp5csg2d1YuUCub9fAVSTW46Q9xeNV592P3MTrsW5sPRGCifjG40TKgFOk7ZtnifoVsE_fJVEX6LN-z7q86PoGHME65/s1600/IMAG0414.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcmiqR9d_eK9e2xIumlIPSd-U5IyZCCy2TYxo9RXDOJgwboWasSGp5csg2d1YuUCub9fAVSTW46Q9xeNV592P3MTrsW5sPRGCifjG40TKgFOk7ZtnifoVsE_fJVEX6LN-z7q86PoGHME65/s320/IMAG0414.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFTi0U9Dgoqrjk2SoFAOE_ahIo_IA7ZAIKH5kpcIsG_u1XM60el7Jrh1S_Q6fJlbWvdTFHJWZQAsMagvUi7s_mQb-2V1_LzX_RwWVpgnjvsqbZS7EQqj1eAwo0s9gAKNaScVSUu2nuz64/s1600/IMAG0419.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFTi0U9Dgoqrjk2SoFAOE_ahIo_IA7ZAIKH5kpcIsG_u1XM60el7Jrh1S_Q6fJlbWvdTFHJWZQAsMagvUi7s_mQb-2V1_LzX_RwWVpgnjvsqbZS7EQqj1eAwo0s9gAKNaScVSUu2nuz64/s320/IMAG0419.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Joe made his announcements and the ride began with a lead out from the Hall County Sheriff's Department. That's always very cool.<br />
As we made our way toward Maysville I snapped a few pictures of the main group.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghamH4hyphenhyphen8zFRbqADcFQDSbZWmNqXngooqCQjK-AHGrvfW3CS6rBh-G2kcgjlH8HKGntcWJUcZT-5aal6Jia9EXDzCjxc-pN1KECf1Vh8cMjrM24k12g2849w2K-kRNxHXCX6owhyphenhyphenp5dE7m/s1600/IMAG0425_BURST001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghamH4hyphenhyphen8zFRbqADcFQDSbZWmNqXngooqCQjK-AHGrvfW3CS6rBh-G2kcgjlH8HKGntcWJUcZT-5aal6Jia9EXDzCjxc-pN1KECf1Vh8cMjrM24k12g2849w2K-kRNxHXCX6owhyphenhyphenp5dE7m/s320/IMAG0425_BURST001.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqSNJKrp4JoxJz6THt_1RsvWbY432L_0ZBq4U9JawRqXg9p7j0bsHR4v527UKYxFQwrlB-ZsZvWTo9y6MR3eqIjSXzJ4tXfzZmHj6vLpV1NB7VuLwg3dIUzf7DhtRSFksSuT4SPtkq3Hep/s1600/IMAG0427_BURST002_COVER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqSNJKrp4JoxJz6THt_1RsvWbY432L_0ZBq4U9JawRqXg9p7j0bsHR4v527UKYxFQwrlB-ZsZvWTo9y6MR3eqIjSXzJ4tXfzZmHj6vLpV1NB7VuLwg3dIUzf7DhtRSFksSuT4SPtkq3Hep/s320/IMAG0427_BURST002_COVER.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKuZwtiyqOVv8MyTs7VLmJp6LcRLv2ZocXcGcIl-LEV95UmP1TYbdE6-6LPbqxI6a1Ct7mpE68AbpDOvGusTJvIaSSkp7JkUQ_oiB_KNq8-Y-Q0F8m_zkIAbZPvqPq1ewu8_M-IbUMx6f2/s1600/IMAG0428_BURST001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKuZwtiyqOVv8MyTs7VLmJp6LcRLv2ZocXcGcIl-LEV95UmP1TYbdE6-6LPbqxI6a1Ct7mpE68AbpDOvGusTJvIaSSkp7JkUQ_oiB_KNq8-Y-Q0F8m_zkIAbZPvqPq1ewu8_M-IbUMx6f2/s320/IMAG0428_BURST001.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRdFAk6uUX195MH2eJHpOo7lMvAfm3VSjdxrSrDcjaUR6qffL4aBzQTQgLjZ5PghflKTrAyXe1CwJOno9gk0fnLM63iYiqEOg4SvmUkiOhGqKvlyRv1AZ6Lp5FmekKqcXuRJkkTt6v9Hb8/s1600/IMAG0431_BURST002_COVER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRdFAk6uUX195MH2eJHpOo7lMvAfm3VSjdxrSrDcjaUR6qffL4aBzQTQgLjZ5PghflKTrAyXe1CwJOno9gk0fnLM63iYiqEOg4SvmUkiOhGqKvlyRv1AZ6Lp5FmekKqcXuRJkkTt6v9Hb8/s320/IMAG0431_BURST002_COVER.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Once we made the right hand turn in Gillsville the lead group picked up the pace. Led by a bunch of guys from BluSky and BikeTown the pace was more than some of us wanted since we weren't racing. So we backed off and rode quick but enjoyable. In our newly formed group were Stephen Sisk, David Latty, David Shabat, Kim Turpin, and Kristen Weinacker. We were having a great time!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoqgLevjGx7N0OSt6nN36AkV67AtedwDe8HxsMB0LBtkNP8utjiUz8DA2BTS3MetnlxC037Gpk8JhGNSX4EPcgWFg8l4vxD26ZbJcPflM5bIz9Esht0ozg32jFBfxhhGLtVUxpY9kBrg03/s1600/IMAG0432_BURST001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoqgLevjGx7N0OSt6nN36AkV67AtedwDe8HxsMB0LBtkNP8utjiUz8DA2BTS3MetnlxC037Gpk8JhGNSX4EPcgWFg8l4vxD26ZbJcPflM5bIz9Esht0ozg32jFBfxhhGLtVUxpY9kBrg03/s320/IMAG0432_BURST001.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7hY6bXbQbFdd6GhwK7q0AMw7i5AZcTARsWZwvBXDCXlKRobW6dWjxHh-OmG3-Fspc1qsE3FLRiPSTOF8nl_aJ5ds0pMoyHqSI3nRbnDq36431CAquYreMuX81EZLCvZa90Hr7wI2dpcxI/s1600/IMAG0433.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7hY6bXbQbFdd6GhwK7q0AMw7i5AZcTARsWZwvBXDCXlKRobW6dWjxHh-OmG3-Fspc1qsE3FLRiPSTOF8nl_aJ5ds0pMoyHqSI3nRbnDq36431CAquYreMuX81EZLCvZa90Hr7wI2dpcxI/s320/IMAG0433.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj19lby_cKbZ5YK60c5PMCODy5qr9yzizJ1o6QZQt27pphuKyltXXahyphenhyphen-mX9JPulL4rBSzwShJYRJeqiHLFDxIjMVH9Xd9yCI7zV3SdGzLLUNs7_BIh9WLtdigCWp5-TgXq9yrg1_AxoWcl/s1600/IMAG0435.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj19lby_cKbZ5YK60c5PMCODy5qr9yzizJ1o6QZQt27pphuKyltXXahyphenhyphen-mX9JPulL4rBSzwShJYRJeqiHLFDxIjMVH9Xd9yCI7zV3SdGzLLUNs7_BIh9WLtdigCWp5-TgXq9yrg1_AxoWcl/s320/IMAG0435.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The day was perfect and our pace soon overpowered what the ladies wanted to do so it ended up just us guys around mile 50. To that point we had been averaging 19+ mph which is well above the norm for this ride. And the infamous climb up Apple Pie Ridge Road still loomed.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiomBJaegv8hZ9o1HTAQKb1eM7KqSXmz2woiX9NTNYgNK2FdUil2n_YDUsHsy9iFT9S4swdw_5nyih23f3fkujUlC3r838pFq8KRBiGY_YpqfMPMhOfs2Y3sSe-gaURK1CHjeOqSC0Kbocs/s1600/IMAG0434_BURST002_COVER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiomBJaegv8hZ9o1HTAQKb1eM7KqSXmz2woiX9NTNYgNK2FdUil2n_YDUsHsy9iFT9S4swdw_5nyih23f3fkujUlC3r838pFq8KRBiGY_YpqfMPMhOfs2Y3sSe-gaURK1CHjeOqSC0Kbocs/s320/IMAG0434_BURST002_COVER.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
There's a point in every century ride where you start wishing you were done. For me that point is around mile 80. As we pressed on toward Apple Pie I told everyone that I felt we were riding toward purgatory. I thought back to what the lady at the start said and used it as motivation. And yet again channeled my inner Jens Voigt.<br />
<br />
On the road there we picked up young Dylan Cantrell. He had been with the lead group but was suffering from cramps. We gave him some enduralytes and hitched him up to the train. When I learned he'd never climbed Apple Pie I told him how to attack it... you don't attack it. It fights back once you get about halfway up the climb. Hurts very much.<br />
<br />
At the top there is a SAG where you can have some food and claim yourself a delicious Jaemor Farms Apple Pie. Of course nobody actually eats it after climbing that thing. I always get one and stuff it in my jersey for later in the day when I get home. It's like fried victory!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdqHd0tXWvhQ6V46pjjmfZbnZ5M7KLBQatWDFEYmxPhkSgZjz3UsgD0jbpG0kvQWM9Tatfa6kFudKAFQ7zVrTJVwYbjw6UJ31uwqX6xWStoDO20FLlUg0JajBYA4NAZ3zBsc-zrWVSXb_P/s1600/IMAG0436_BURST004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdqHd0tXWvhQ6V46pjjmfZbnZ5M7KLBQatWDFEYmxPhkSgZjz3UsgD0jbpG0kvQWM9Tatfa6kFudKAFQ7zVrTJVwYbjw6UJ31uwqX6xWStoDO20FLlUg0JajBYA4NAZ3zBsc-zrWVSXb_P/s320/IMAG0436_BURST004.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We gathered our group and basically climbed our way back to Alto, Georgia. That's right, the climbing didn't end there.<br />
We pushed on toward Lula and the great meal that awaited us. I found Sean and the rest of the leading group already enjoying the spaghetti and brownies. We all sat around and talked for a while and then headed home to our families.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh71gzVStfgvXuqF88LH3IXDSDCbngpjytzwu-CFJkNvRPkcAl_kCbDAQM8j6wuPuBtZU7T3SJy_zBFRiYhmd4w0lVDU18rTlcQTnOZivhMsSYSY4ZM_w1yBdNmlwY5fqxgb3yf2slvH_X4/s1600/IMAG0437.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh71gzVStfgvXuqF88LH3IXDSDCbngpjytzwu-CFJkNvRPkcAl_kCbDAQM8j6wuPuBtZU7T3SJy_zBFRiYhmd4w0lVDU18rTlcQTnOZivhMsSYSY4ZM_w1yBdNmlwY5fqxgb3yf2slvH_X4/s320/IMAG0437.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Pie.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
This is always a great ride I love with people who appreciate it as much as I do. Thanks to all the volunteers from Lula Assembly of Praise who make this ride special every year!<br />
<br />
See you next time!<br />
<br />
Chad Hayes<br />
Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00306386622733315527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655692694530611569.post-39761449990113164222013-05-14T10:53:00.000-04:002013-05-14T10:53:26.128-04:00Very Dirty Spokes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnSh1HV3Hh4jh_NK46PWmFslXRb5VvCEoh8Eese8pWtjLuzTBcmYUUJ645ZuSoIHK5hnscCfKIcYDcHzc_VSOVWYCtSACCfzqQxvt3wBAOTGmZcxVcfux8oj9QA7ltz0AEio4wlTu9y5xr/s1600/IMG_1815.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnSh1HV3Hh4jh_NK46PWmFslXRb5VvCEoh8Eese8pWtjLuzTBcmYUUJ645ZuSoIHK5hnscCfKIcYDcHzc_VSOVWYCtSACCfzqQxvt3wBAOTGmZcxVcfux8oj9QA7ltz0AEio4wlTu9y5xr/s400/IMG_1815.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
This picture explains all you need to know about this race. It was the Dirty Spokes Productions 6/9 Hour Mountain Bike race at Fort Yargo, Winder. It was raining cats and dogs. I still don't know why I went ahead with this race. It trashed my brakes. I spent 1 hour with a hose in the driveway cleaning the bike, my clothes, my shoes. Lisa still had to wash my clothes twice. I was picking mud out of my ears and eyes for two days. I was chilled to my bones for two days. But I take some solace in the fact that a whole lot of others started and finished this race with me. We are all crazy.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic1r7IRqKo1xUvmBe8G0qRpUq0Ur5loA5e-SvkdiAsS0T6crZbUPqOIq8dOYj776Nv_SawKHh3r4XjYVcZ0DDvPiIkwtCyjlm_w6lY-9atJeete-9g5-p7ya7O9m-ty05DGH-oRagYjY4Z/s1600/225719_4558105120734_1307040396_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic1r7IRqKo1xUvmBe8G0qRpUq0Ur5loA5e-SvkdiAsS0T6crZbUPqOIq8dOYj776Nv_SawKHh3r4XjYVcZ0DDvPiIkwtCyjlm_w6lY-9atJeete-9g5-p7ya7O9m-ty05DGH-oRagYjY4Z/s400/225719_4558105120734_1307040396_n.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Randy Hemphill</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Joining me on my team were Trace Nabors and Randy Hemphill. Two great guys that kept smiling all day long. Even while they were shivering. The temperature was in the upper 40's and it never stopped raining. We would look at each other and shake our heads. This is crazy.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH8rSPPDwmmIPmGZQkvfe-K1pV93tPp3KjA0qCqzvy08bfNoDOLP20PvjhD7_9NxD8sjELKVWrbmpjgGjQo49uJVaNhP2mAee_nzMyhPD0UiqOspcx3aEyvIjgDMWaW9-lpwUjiFz2Bv4A/s1600/IMAG0390.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH8rSPPDwmmIPmGZQkvfe-K1pV93tPp3KjA0qCqzvy08bfNoDOLP20PvjhD7_9NxD8sjELKVWrbmpjgGjQo49uJVaNhP2mAee_nzMyhPD0UiqOspcx3aEyvIjgDMWaW9-lpwUjiFz2Bv4A/s400/IMAG0390.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trace Nabors</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I got there early to set up a tent and figure out how to race this thing. While I worked on setting up I saw many regulars doing the same. I also noticed some people parking, walking to registration, getting the goodie bag and shirt and then driving on back home. At the time I scoffed at the thought of doing that but now I feel there was some wisdom there.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgicPNm68mmFnIILgOxN2sUAv04eNEWiK6CzRpxZWoV5AEisvH1K68Xqmjz7nJ2iHB6XjLvdI6yQa-99T5ShadQrtwtp8qwDB9deotBfk3e11F-2kQ1-Jmk7syjoLESlaQUuqzzUHLQZGgT/s1600/IMAG0392_BURST002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgicPNm68mmFnIILgOxN2sUAv04eNEWiK6CzRpxZWoV5AEisvH1K68Xqmjz7nJ2iHB6XjLvdI6yQa-99T5ShadQrtwtp8qwDB9deotBfk3e11F-2kQ1-Jmk7syjoLESlaQUuqzzUHLQZGgT/s320/IMAG0392_BURST002.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfJGgpaVTRkD2F0EsV9mYfXhyphenhyphenkWBePAK8I9RzOpfZcf-EgLMJuScHVBC6itndxSI4yGOnlnnJVFv9-iU3GakdEyTnFeMDo1OwR6maRtUFmIPLXoykBvqYs7pX6FV9GPfFtalFEM6raEpNG/s1600/IMAG0379.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfJGgpaVTRkD2F0EsV9mYfXhyphenhyphenkWBePAK8I9RzOpfZcf-EgLMJuScHVBC6itndxSI4yGOnlnnJVFv9-iU3GakdEyTnFeMDo1OwR6maRtUFmIPLXoykBvqYs7pX6FV9GPfFtalFEM6raEpNG/s400/IMAG0379.jpg" width="400" /></a>I crashed on the first lap. Smacked a tree with my body. I was chasing the lead group and we headed down a hill in the single track. I could see what needed to be done and decided to scrub some speed in order to make a left hand turn. This is where I learned what conditions like this do to your brakes. They tend not to work like you want them to. So when I didn't get the desired response I squeezed a little harder. With that action my front wheel locked up and I started sliding uncontrollably toward a nice healthy pine tree similar to the one in the background of the first picture. I was carrying a great amount of speed but there was enough distance to my undesired target for me to think through just how I wanted this crash to end. I shoved my bike to the left and away from me and it sailed on down the trail. In my mind that should have caused my body to skip off the other side of the tree and I would land softly in the pine straw. Physics, the only real problem with any split second ideas men have, helped me separate the bike from my body but did nothing to change the trajectory of my body. I managed to turn my shoulder to the tree and hit it perfectly with the entire right side of my body. All the air left my lungs and I bounced off the tree back onto the muddy trail. I immediately jumped up and grabbed my bike.<br />
<br />
Are you kidding? No I didn't. I crouched on all fours trying to re-inflate my lungs. Then I hobbled back to my bike like an old man chasing the kid who stole his cane.<br />
I still have a large bruise on my right leg and some knee pain.<br />
I'd be happier with a scar. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHkd1OXcQplQMOPHlRA3eRmuTPs3nu8ZxgNE66PeZp0ICkXXNKkOIFQ3Wo8GCzxY1Jr6OvJwkZQtMGI3-JdWJ_A9zwLrlt-I7yLlxKZlkfYak1_aCkPSnO6vxh7I-6_cCjila3TPuSRJhB/s1600/IMAG0387.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHkd1OXcQplQMOPHlRA3eRmuTPs3nu8ZxgNE66PeZp0ICkXXNKkOIFQ3Wo8GCzxY1Jr6OvJwkZQtMGI3-JdWJ_A9zwLrlt-I7yLlxKZlkfYak1_aCkPSnO6vxh7I-6_cCjila3TPuSRJhB/s400/IMAG0387.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trace and Dustin Mealor consider their decision.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Each of us got in a lap before the talk started. The talk centered around how the trail was being demolished and our bikes were failing. Injuries were growing. People were considering abandoning because there was no end in sight to the weather. In fact the radar showed a serious storm on the way. The race organizer, Tim, walked around trying to get a feel for what the racers wanted to do. At the time Randy was on course and I would be next. We got the word that the race would go on for another hour and 15 mins. Enough time for me to get in another lap? Yep. And since we were in the lead I didn't want to give that up so I headed out knowing it was my final lap.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAFBLkGAIYxgBlUb8e1I4RZnOCKAbBBNHhZSMRRD53-pka7SjHzVxi4Do6uxwgt4fiOAL9_ZlZ__B-W_W4XgM1vSHMcIRmUFYQLZEIfzj_Ueg1c6vB8n8zqodOzhw6-TXT-Ngk9qCpDgkC/s1600/IMAG0385.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAFBLkGAIYxgBlUb8e1I4RZnOCKAbBBNHhZSMRRD53-pka7SjHzVxi4Do6uxwgt4fiOAL9_ZlZ__B-W_W4XgM1vSHMcIRmUFYQLZEIfzj_Ueg1c6vB8n8zqodOzhw6-TXT-Ngk9qCpDgkC/s400/IMAG0385.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dustin discovered they were the sole Expert 2 Person Male Team</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX0SODrsN7QmozUO4PnXLTrbXzmaCvXls9NmM1Ge5Jip9Z1ns5L9fu_X5CYhFcPmvk5oUmsWDLnZipj01VqvA-khVyaYOEqpL_clO-wAVIZHa1YQNt28rnp38893IqyMWEvLDRVpawjRNd/s1600/IMAG0395.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX0SODrsN7QmozUO4PnXLTrbXzmaCvXls9NmM1Ge5Jip9Z1ns5L9fu_X5CYhFcPmvk5oUmsWDLnZipj01VqvA-khVyaYOEqpL_clO-wAVIZHa1YQNt28rnp38893IqyMWEvLDRVpawjRNd/s400/IMAG0395.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Expert 2 Person Male, Rob and Dustin</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
For the next hour I used every muscle in my body to balance my bike in the soup mud. Parts of the trail were like riding through a river. My brakes sounded like metal on metal but that was the only thing wrong with my GIANT. I love that bike!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA-TrmEXGDzRBT41Je9wkSxYmAPwOX1jmnVLviwTpq7VrbK_D36r6NfZl1L0n54IoSEheOR5TBu5QguZW2edUfEGVNVUbl5v6IvbrRP_uqaMd1qoA9sh876e6su-RZknr29C3f0aA5upxr/s1600/IMAG0394.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA-TrmEXGDzRBT41Je9wkSxYmAPwOX1jmnVLviwTpq7VrbK_D36r6NfZl1L0n54IoSEheOR5TBu5QguZW2edUfEGVNVUbl5v6IvbrRP_uqaMd1qoA9sh876e6su-RZknr29C3f0aA5upxr/s320/IMAG0394.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I passed a lot of frustrated people. I made sure they knew the race had been shortened but it didn't seem to matter. I think they were done regardless. I realized while climbing up the power line climb that in this race, on a day like today, the climbs were the best part. I could be sure of where my bike was going. I could see the trail and know that if I did fall over it would be soft landing. Obviously I resolved to not crash again. I figured the time I lost by being careful was the same as the time I'd loose if I crashed again. Now that there's wisdom. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSqhk_QVrGXG8DR-ZCrtzrzoLlmTRso2zrr9SQ4O7DYuyteX1Sio4okcSrVakbuTh3FlbZgGj5_Rm2HWUuuVa8fAWmINiqKWqcNQOMscs1IDTidDHPq6a_GmZYzyZ-qCA0zS14-iNWBPrs/s1600/IMG_1814.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSqhk_QVrGXG8DR-ZCrtzrzoLlmTRso2zrr9SQ4O7DYuyteX1Sio4okcSrVakbuTh3FlbZgGj5_Rm2HWUuuVa8fAWmINiqKWqcNQOMscs1IDTidDHPq6a_GmZYzyZ-qCA0zS14-iNWBPrs/s400/IMG_1814.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Me and the boys scored another victory for ourselves. It was a real tough day to try and race a mountain bike and I'm not prepared to say it was worth it. We had some version of fun that isn't defined. It exists in the future at a place where I'm sitting around with friends and we're talking about the time we raced at Fort Yargo in a monsoon. A "fish" story in which you only need credit for starting the race. For attempting the race. For being crazy.<br />
We were all... crazy.<br />
<br />
How fun!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiATTa2oqfJRSSwM8QgtPNt7GQM-O047V5ZsbQYsIhjxoUJjttmfxp9KJC0Fri5TOT3q5T953Bnm23g1oYY65R5DAqZEbZ8hUrhjK3N1otG8O3rSQ2ZvUD4Pwwmd44uucMKboscfNsD-iBt/s1600/IMAG0402.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiATTa2oqfJRSSwM8QgtPNt7GQM-O047V5ZsbQYsIhjxoUJjttmfxp9KJC0Fri5TOT3q5T953Bnm23g1oYY65R5DAqZEbZ8hUrhjK3N1otG8O3rSQ2ZvUD4Pwwmd44uucMKboscfNsD-iBt/s400/IMAG0402.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Three Person Male 6 Hr MTB at Fort Yargo. Cinco de Mayo!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/0aTXI1kElrY?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
Things I learned about mountain bike racing in the rain:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>If you have a beater bike with rim brakes... ride it. But brake early to make sure you can.</li>
<li>Wear glasses. Snow ski goggles if you have them. Your eye lashes don't stand a chance of keeping the grit out.</li>
<li>It's not popular but I wore a helmet cover. It was a little heavy but it shielded my face and head at times. It was nice to only have to wash my mouth and nose. Plus my helmet stayed clean. </li>
<li>Ride in the center of the trail no matter what. The edges are soft. The center is hard underneath the thin layer of mud.</li>
<li>The same rules on single track are more important; brake before the corner, lean the bike not the body, stay on the trail, keep straight up on the bridges or you'll slide right off.</li>
<li>Don't wear boots. They just fill up with water.</li>
<li>Wool is your best friend. Unless you can afford Goretex.</li>
<li>If you're on a team, keep from getting cold while you wait. Change clothes each lap or use an old blanket to stay warm. Physically you're fine once you get back out but mentally you'll want to quit before your next lap.</li>
<li>Bring plenty of water. It's weird but we needed water for things other than drinking. A big water cooler is best.</li>
<li>Don't bring the family. Misery does not love company. Girl friends either. Crazy isn't fun to them. It's just stupid.</li>
</ul>
<br />
And so ends another adventure in North Georgia. I heard there were some road races going on this same weekend but nobody told me any cool stories so it must have gone well.<br />
<br />
Next up is the LAP Century in Lula, Georgia. I love this ride and can't wait to tell you all about it.<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading!<br />
<br />
Chad Hayes Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00306386622733315527noreply@blogger.com1Fort Yargo State Park, 210 South Broad Street, Winder, GA 30680, USA33.984826 -83.73356533.932151 -83.814246 34.037501 -83.652884tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655692694530611569.post-58040058409643078942013-05-01T17:01:00.000-04:002013-05-02T12:25:12.512-04:002013 Athens TwilightI got up at 7:00am on Saturday morning, April 27th, and climbed into the truck already loaded with all things cycling and backed out into the rain. I wondered out loud why I was doing this. Why am I driving for an hour to race for 40 minutes in a race I am clearly never meant to succeed in? Athens Twilight brings out the crazies! The <i>1st Endurance </i>injecting, double caffeine gel sucking, win or die trying crazies! And there I was leaving a warm wife and two children who love cinnamon rolls for breakfast so I can risk my skin in a race with strangers who don't appreciate my... skin.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzz7y3DyIlQgHRL71MVGvUAUkReH3MFOK5_boTZJWrpCDUSfjiZ6OOlZPgS9s5oNOmH-c9S67zT1rvnwN5rNnzldU6_BgARvMuIkpRxb-67MGdwydzy7yS0vFUcJqWPsKpPFIclu8ktisG/s1600/IMAG0357.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzz7y3DyIlQgHRL71MVGvUAUkReH3MFOK5_boTZJWrpCDUSfjiZ6OOlZPgS9s5oNOmH-c9S67zT1rvnwN5rNnzldU6_BgARvMuIkpRxb-67MGdwydzy7yS0vFUcJqWPsKpPFIclu8ktisG/s320/IMAG0357.jpg" width="315" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The chair in Jittery Joes on E. Broad Street.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The answer used to be things like; "I paid good money to race" or "I've trained hard for this" or "My friends are expecting me to be there". But now on days like that, when I question myself in the car on the way, the answer is less clear and yet more comforting. I'm going because I don't know what is going to happen. I'm going because I want to find out. I'm going because it's the right mix of competition, fun and friends. And that's a combination I can count on... even if I don't know what is going to happen. It's the same good time guarantee I have when I'm with my family... only there's more testosterone.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY0ObfsWuYZzo6ticuwGYWC0o7adxNJGa_-Z3jWpSj43hu9oyCOxOzE-oJnB0B0lxquLN7DgomNtK4k2rSbwJir5O5DjEv1PCgCaUiH119E_KpUg4-H1CqDlPzRQYhT2l87uuZUE0qEbiU/s1600/IMAG0336.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY0ObfsWuYZzo6ticuwGYWC0o7adxNJGa_-Z3jWpSj43hu9oyCOxOzE-oJnB0B0lxquLN7DgomNtK4k2rSbwJir5O5DjEv1PCgCaUiH119E_KpUg4-H1CqDlPzRQYhT2l87uuZUE0qEbiU/s200/IMAG0336.jpg" width="112" /></a></div>
One tiny insignificant thing that motivated me this weekend was the fact that I would be wearing the NEW KIT! It's time for Team SkyBlu p/b Hayes Automotive to light it up!<br />
This new team is actually a club. Formed this year and backed by SkyBlu Smart Fuels they have a junior division as well as a race team. Anyone can join. The club is basically a North Georgia cycling club who promote health and wellness in the community through rides and races. There are many associated partners like Dingo Race Productions, Kali helmets, Kathy Anderson Trucking, Berry Automotive, The Longstreet Clinic, Landmark Logistics, A+ Garage Service, and of course Hayes Automotive. I am happy to support the efforts of this club.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY3eZQJwF0xGgAuSO7bIzr8nIjVdKjH28pfIGh6BPwYiI8k2UzO3eTfgwrq8pYv2oJ7pukHr5pi-PgdX7mFfjTZtIKF-X9NqvkTJcj5t_X9v7d2LC6jHAwWYNViHu4HnVAWv2jWhjpovNS/s1600/IMAG0340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY3eZQJwF0xGgAuSO7bIzr8nIjVdKjH28pfIGh6BPwYiI8k2UzO3eTfgwrq8pYv2oJ7pukHr5pi-PgdX7mFfjTZtIKF-X9NqvkTJcj5t_X9v7d2LC6jHAwWYNViHu4HnVAWv2jWhjpovNS/s320/IMAG0340.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I arrived in downtown Athens, Georgia before 8:30am and registered for the Masters 35+ (CAT1-4) race. Note the parenthesis. That will be important later.<br />
I thought I was early and had time to set up a tent before everyone else got there but as I walked back to the truck there was Sean Philyaw who had already staked out a place in the parking lot for us.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJFliI_dgZ5jfdFzaQ_HN854ZEjVNKehB8QmxnT9t6vlzkrei3dT_KbqRoUgpz3ZYiSVSQtizqquoARIRBKtxhaCSvH56csgUaaU83dHPXIWW8w4tDHvwbsuu0oibc31UsefbaLW0If1PW/s1600/New+Picture+(4).png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJFliI_dgZ5jfdFzaQ_HN854ZEjVNKehB8QmxnT9t6vlzkrei3dT_KbqRoUgpz3ZYiSVSQtizqquoARIRBKtxhaCSvH56csgUaaU83dHPXIWW8w4tDHvwbsuu0oibc31UsefbaLW0If1PW/s320/New+Picture+(4).png" width="247" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All the yellow makes me look pasty.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I popped the tent and started getting my act together when Sean rolled up with John Strickland. Both men were grinning and seemed to be excited about racing in the rain. Weird.<br />
John informed me that after he saw the starting list of riders for the M35+ race he convinced the nice people at registration to move him to the CAT4 race. Why for? Well here's were the parenthesis was defined for me. It means that if you are a PRO1 or PRO2 category racer who just happens to be 35 years old or older then you can and should race in the Masters field. You see the top 15 places in this qualifier go on to race downtown that night. The very qualification that has eluded me the last 5 years. And these Pro's were going to all but assure themselves of qualifying by not racing in the Pro1/2 qualifier and in the Masters race. My legs were hurting already.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7_XXpCqtNinyomr9jFppWJb9jX7uPrdUXhNhFD9xOb6wEvtW6ZLFQS_ZGlGvPtSE0t1cqa2VTWQGbLEv_D4nqeHiZ05jU1Yxy4pd_iILy47TZ9Ss5jEonDwgcx2tq0bPk5TZ4onxI3bRQ/s1600/New+Picture+(5).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="189" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7_XXpCqtNinyomr9jFppWJb9jX7uPrdUXhNhFD9xOb6wEvtW6ZLFQS_ZGlGvPtSE0t1cqa2VTWQGbLEv_D4nqeHiZ05jU1Yxy4pd_iILy47TZ9Ss5jEonDwgcx2tq0bPk5TZ4onxI3bRQ/s320/New+Picture+(5).png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Star Bridges, Sean Philyaw, Chad Hayes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Star Bridges raced the 45+ Masters (finished 9th) and rolled up just as we began our warm up. He blessed us with some more good news about the broken glass on the course and all the flats and crashes that had already happened. But I didn't listen. I focused on the positive. It had stopped raining.<br />
<br />
John rolled back up and told us the races were running behind while they tried to sweep away the glass. We hung out and talked about worldly things before resuming our warm ups. It was fun.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSUTB9qFpSSeq2NZq-zX0EdJj1oXjIaZfUiM59VwyTcWvCsaX9YC-MvSnMmDdITMeqDqwk7Iphx1h4uTN88cwhNcSLIBy4hV8j4VNwgX8JYh4oAC4v9OMe82yCimUrbQ51_WeGrxmG01Ia/s1600/New+Picture+(2).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSUTB9qFpSSeq2NZq-zX0EdJj1oXjIaZfUiM59VwyTcWvCsaX9YC-MvSnMmDdITMeqDqwk7Iphx1h4uTN88cwhNcSLIBy4hV8j4VNwgX8JYh4oAC4v9OMe82yCimUrbQ51_WeGrxmG01Ia/s320/New+Picture+(2).png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnBXsFD8r5p2dAqjJvi_0iYF_ujhS7MI2g6YuhZESyjPMYidC25TuNkma4cdMJ3atajGXbJYgGp99r4pBCLtQGFJqDGnGYGTjhyOLJ2ALJ-sLCcCskUauTquNkBOpeSt_9JcWLwvEqdenJ/s1600/New+Picture+(1).png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnBXsFD8r5p2dAqjJvi_0iYF_ujhS7MI2g6YuhZESyjPMYidC25TuNkma4cdMJ3atajGXbJYgGp99r4pBCLtQGFJqDGnGYGTjhyOLJ2ALJ-sLCcCskUauTquNkBOpeSt_9JcWLwvEqdenJ/s320/New+Picture+(1).png" width="320" /></a>The race started like any other and I figured I would ride near the back and watch the attacks that never work before I made my way to the front for the last 9 laps. Oh boy was I wrong. As soon as the first lap was done the attacks started and they never let off the gas. I found myself in a terrible position in the back where riders would get gaped and I'd have to bridge across. Each time I made it back there was another attack that would gap the field up again. I couldn't recover enough to advance to where I wanted to be.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZIimhvXl8EGp0FU8KG3Ne6-5dN1wLDORDtJ7SJq2tYMJ0xZFE__SQnCbaSH0abw2CX4t-mxNRtBoW-p60gWJzGbGykgC3bjFOggzdmCzXSRgXkEYxOfrR2XguHGjad36cz4CiqgoIcuix/s1600/sean+philyaw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZIimhvXl8EGp0FU8KG3Ne6-5dN1wLDORDtJ7SJq2tYMJ0xZFE__SQnCbaSH0abw2CX4t-mxNRtBoW-p60gWJzGbGykgC3bjFOggzdmCzXSRgXkEYxOfrR2XguHGjad36cz4CiqgoIcuix/s200/sean+philyaw.jpg" width="158" /></a></div>
<br />
Sean was in the same race and he moved up early on. Very smart. I wish I had joined him when he did it. After one too many efforts I finally reached a point when I could not close a gap to the main group. I eased up to catch my breath and they were gone. I was all alone. So I focused on the positive.<br />
No more wheel spray.<br />
And I looked really cool in the new kit.<br />
With matching socks. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPf9xREsVFow0L1iL1BCpduWc5cmOxCAmf1Z_rP_Nhag1MdBSGf7bxwjDFv35wod2x0iTjSTYQeWsVWOvo2LS9Lq3tHToqDqZs0TaC9i2KRdSszqQDWuMpI7CTecgZLD__28Wd-rDdXWAr/s1600/New+Picture.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPf9xREsVFow0L1iL1BCpduWc5cmOxCAmf1Z_rP_Nhag1MdBSGf7bxwjDFv35wod2x0iTjSTYQeWsVWOvo2LS9Lq3tHToqDqZs0TaC9i2KRdSszqQDWuMpI7CTecgZLD__28Wd-rDdXWAr/s320/New+Picture.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
With 9 laps to go I had been dropped like a hot rock. But I know better than to quit. If you quit you don't get a result. You just get a DNF. And I hate that. So I hammered on, gaining positions as a result of other peoples bad fortune. I passed dropped riders and riders with blown tires. With 2 laps to go I felt good about myself for keeping the pace high and not getting lapped by the field. And then it happened. In turn two my bike got a little squirrely. When I looked down my rear tire was completely flat. 2 stinking laps to go.<br />
I almost let some un-righteous anger slip in.<br />
I unclipped... hoisted my bike onto my shoulder and started the long walk back to the car.<br />
<br />
Here's the video from Sean Philyaw's GoPro - http://youtu.be/Y1sBNyCtJkE<br />
<br />
The long walk gave me plenty of time to reflect on my life. To put what just happened in perspective and remember that the only thing I can control is myself.<br />
<br />
But I still need to say something...<br />
<br />
<u><b>To the residents and guests staying at Perennial Skyline Apartment and 909 Broad Apartment</b></u><br />
<br />
On the evening of April 26th, Friday night, some losers in the apartments adjacent to Willow Street decided that it would be fun to break bottles all over the road where the races would be happening the next morning. These losers have no idea what it takes to compete in a bike race. No doubt they are fat and lazy and selfish. I'm sure they have never been without a cell phone or a car. They probably don't know what it's like to work for a living and I'll bet they expect to be handed a nice high paying job after they finish getting their higher education. They probably have no clue about the riders that got hurt and the money that it cost those riders. But let me give you turds a little advice. The real world is waiting to teach you some hard lessons. You will regret how hard you made it on others trying to enjoy their hobby. My Dad always told me that I could have all the fun I wanted as long as I didn't destroy some one's property or hurt anyone. You losers did both. Probably because the only way you can have any fun is to get drunk. How sad. Your parents must be proud. I hope I get the chance to fire you one day.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3wS401ApY6Pccv1NOgbzUxbAC11TqXYdRdQXxusjvYten-lKACjayAE0ID53c0HDNewCZx-JPm4KUTND3RjkwFz6SN03a_maS5w0xC2kA2oITHMEoF4i3rWLzfF1XXfqbuklE6lGVa05d/s1600/Austin+Ulrich+Nathaniel+Rowe.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3wS401ApY6Pccv1NOgbzUxbAC11TqXYdRdQXxusjvYten-lKACjayAE0ID53c0HDNewCZx-JPm4KUTND3RjkwFz6SN03a_maS5w0xC2kA2oITHMEoF4i3rWLzfF1XXfqbuklE6lGVa05d/s320/Austin+Ulrich+Nathaniel+Rowe.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Austin and Nathaniel drive the pace for SkyBlu.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Alright. I feel better.<br />
<br />
So next up was the CAT3 race with team mates Robert Loomis, Austin Ulrich and Nathaniel Rowe. Within the first few laps there was a terrible crash that took Robert out of the race. He looked really bad. His fiance was not happy either.<br />
Austin and Nathaniel were able to get back in the race and really looked great. As you can see the new kits really make a statement but it's the legs that do the work. These guys worked hard the whole race and qualified for the night race.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4c9VjCNVLTSjBvaOnL8opF-3Fb_DUIXwaakYpccobAd51nZbYipofPeIFSGL0k0FB6iA9KkXxokGs9dJvKxvIKIuA3dzCyGzPtGBMGn1BpEsq0LstEhQd-8NEE3xUUxkUqdKBOK0U-4vh/s1600/IMAG0349.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4c9VjCNVLTSjBvaOnL8opF-3Fb_DUIXwaakYpccobAd51nZbYipofPeIFSGL0k0FB6iA9KkXxokGs9dJvKxvIKIuA3dzCyGzPtGBMGn1BpEsq0LstEhQd-8NEE3xUUxkUqdKBOK0U-4vh/s400/IMAG0349.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
It was great fun watching all the SkyBlu kits in all the different races. As you can see from the photos it's easy to spot them. I can't wait to see how the season goes.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRbx3IpdwCJ7iG3rU_j78EcmRGhI1AzIrOrtz8Cro7rdWAarh7-ga_lxynIvUZ6tYm6gviOviWLpNz3GeAsUQWFop6wkkE7eS_kdbgv_97pgcAvRF0qfqCSmVNliM95NC98moVjTB0DhgS/s1600/IMAG0368.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRbx3IpdwCJ7iG3rU_j78EcmRGhI1AzIrOrtz8Cro7rdWAarh7-ga_lxynIvUZ6tYm6gviOviWLpNz3GeAsUQWFop6wkkE7eS_kdbgv_97pgcAvRF0qfqCSmVNliM95NC98moVjTB0DhgS/s200/IMAG0368.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizGE9shM22EaJ45rLaHDkI6CWqBtklNClo6RzHdHeYoV6-1X2Cp_8Ttsl7mctTb5o3q3S6HeOhsVRViHNk-KlTbmJDNlplOM0m21X4QC2i2RIVjwcRzcXY4_S3KLJgUFednqhT2mVTY3gI/s1600/IMAG0367.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizGE9shM22EaJ45rLaHDkI6CWqBtklNClo6RzHdHeYoV6-1X2Cp_8Ttsl7mctTb5o3q3S6HeOhsVRViHNk-KlTbmJDNlplOM0m21X4QC2i2RIVjwcRzcXY4_S3KLJgUFednqhT2mVTY3gI/s200/IMAG0367.jpg" width="200" /></a>After those races were through I walked the streets of Athens with Sean. We checked out the vendor row and the festival. I learned about the new Maxxis Padrone Tubeless tires and even ordered some to replace the Hutchinson tires I have. They are the worst tires I've ever owned. I purchased some American Classic tubeless wheels and the tires. The first time mounting the Hutchinsons was terrible. One even blew off the rim and the shop had to wait 2 weeks for a replacement. After riding them for a month I let one loose too much air and it blew off the rim when I tried to inflate it. The shop tried to reinstall it and couldn't because the bead was twisted so bad. So now I have some Maxxis Padrone's and so far they are great. Much easier to mount and seem to do everything better. Now this is what I hoped tubeless road riding would be like.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmDo0wV4b3Xy6d9u_ZVVVdSRsVwfQVJqMgcP2XJ64DC_W9rd-G31NszL-UF2kQHznEINlmrWh9cSo7dL6q2GfK6gY2YuYbbx2EwC6oxNJ6dMehB6H5qLOE8TY0pU85XbmB4I-3EeDxaDby/s1600/IMAG0356.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmDo0wV4b3Xy6d9u_ZVVVdSRsVwfQVJqMgcP2XJ64DC_W9rd-G31NszL-UF2kQHznEINlmrWh9cSo7dL6q2GfK6gY2YuYbbx2EwC6oxNJ6dMehB6H5qLOE8TY0pU85XbmB4I-3EeDxaDby/s320/IMAG0356.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sean, Mike, Star, John awaiting the java.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
While we walked around Athens, Star Bridges was out riding Jefferson River Road in his old school Sunshine Cycles jersey. He enjoyed a qualifying race, then a ride, then hung out with us and then raced downtown. I can't tell you how jealous he makes me feel. He's like a celebrity!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5yg_E2stZqFRlhTVfKlZDkCW36A4aB_VNd5kR-BbRX9Nz60X5cqUGll3x1l9hbZ0FXogWXy4A3MLarI6Ui7zsH2DwxmRMFNVLf-5UIK-_0RL7hRM8l90ER2GkJN56xRyARVH6E9y0W4cq/s1600/star+bridges+and+his+fans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5yg_E2stZqFRlhTVfKlZDkCW36A4aB_VNd5kR-BbRX9Nz60X5cqUGll3x1l9hbZ0FXogWXy4A3MLarI6Ui7zsH2DwxmRMFNVLf-5UIK-_0RL7hRM8l90ER2GkJN56xRyARVH6E9y0W4cq/s320/star+bridges+and+his+fans.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
After watching team mate Mike Long (Age 57) compete in the CAT5 race we all walked to Jittery Joe's for some java. The stories were overzealous and full of manly bravado. We sat out on the porch and enjoyed what turned out to be a fantastic day. It made me wish I had become a weather man because obviously you only have to be right half the time. Or simply speak in code (50% chance of rain).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjgzkeIjNdmbiFmUa2zNGmFDKhZs2dAYliBC51QoPCZwHSgS7ZAOuEcMYOtVPuR_mvhxSj-UhvAuwjGI6lCkdheo801gGZS2ZLP8xVE4KrvLMVLl8-b3ioZgLbXwximHeaG-yotSmJz3eg/s1600/IMAG0360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjgzkeIjNdmbiFmUa2zNGmFDKhZs2dAYliBC51QoPCZwHSgS7ZAOuEcMYOtVPuR_mvhxSj-UhvAuwjGI6lCkdheo801gGZS2ZLP8xVE4KrvLMVLl8-b3ioZgLbXwximHeaG-yotSmJz3eg/s320/IMAG0360.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Normally I would be hanging out with my family but they decided not to come since it would be raining all day..?? I was having a great time but missed the girls so I headed home without seeing the guys race the final at 5:30pm. It wasn't all bad though. I got to watch the races online and on my HDTV which was great!<br />
<br />
So that's how it went. Pretty great I think. And as usual it ended up better than it started. The very result I expected.<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading!<br />
<br />
Chad Hayes<br />
<br />
<br />Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00306386622733315527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655692694530611569.post-20962756520958592492013-04-23T13:33:00.000-04:002013-04-23T13:33:11.106-04:00Riding, Riding and riding some more!This post is going to be for guys like me. When I was a younger man I hated reading. Give me a nice magazine with pictures on every page and I was happy just reading the captions. So in order to catch up with the riding and events I've been doing I will resort to the creation of the blogless blog. No long stories. No witty recounts of the events. Just photos and captions.<br />
<br />
Let us begin.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbTPsroTfd9EUa3ARX2mDpTITlKMmdbjgLY3lFSLbKgwDd7y4o5aR0LKpKIxyw1yoLJbFRWOteNIHMLdcZ5jjFlD9P1-XgAgkJoWb-n59qOlba1Kz6Vmh_WzoSzIWdBFOuBtWpinaJknxT/s1600/IMAG0214.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbTPsroTfd9EUa3ARX2mDpTITlKMmdbjgLY3lFSLbKgwDd7y4o5aR0LKpKIxyw1yoLJbFRWOteNIHMLdcZ5jjFlD9P1-XgAgkJoWb-n59qOlba1Kz6Vmh_WzoSzIWdBFOuBtWpinaJknxT/s320/IMAG0214.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.dirtyspokes.com/duathlon/">2013 Dirty Spokes Duathlon</a> at Heritage Park in Watkinsville, Georgia<br />
<br />
Kelley Edwards ran 2.8 miles, I rode 8 mile mtb, then he ran another 2.8 mile. It must be said that Kelley ate like a killer whale within 1 hour of the race. It must have been delicious. Both times.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzj65FqjIf6CW35PGyzO7duuPQ2sfEHsgToioESgCRY-LUFLJhAwDsJTqw6vHsgKKCgXkEc-zm9fS4OanhSpg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
Molly did the Duathlon Novice as a solo which is a run and ride only. She did great. Finished the first run before Puke boy.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9_wkVL00O3w2_uvQqQSAgyhVByhhD8YOEI3MxI2bMfHahViL9FVZOhlV04c4X1fC2_LqlaIpOlQMlUoAfzpgExAqPRGUQ4XLsBS4pBrrS4B-TC4dBynL4ovX1mGCwH9xfTgv4xdyAP6M7/s1600/IMAG0220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9_wkVL00O3w2_uvQqQSAgyhVByhhD8YOEI3MxI2bMfHahViL9FVZOhlV04c4X1fC2_LqlaIpOlQMlUoAfzpgExAqPRGUQ4XLsBS4pBrrS4B-TC4dBynL4ovX1mGCwH9xfTgv4xdyAP6M7/s320/IMAG0220.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Molly on the run.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Y_uLTVBBvLi5W0hi01KNremU-HWM3-fOBJpGHhxrF8euYkmzhqR9NYgstk1XjVOgMBEip0rsv1A5m-B8pHwJy-Crex309xu-Wd2zEquYT6isi01xTI1qPE1kogc70nkMWm5uos97lXCI/s1600/IMAG0240_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Y_uLTVBBvLi5W0hi01KNremU-HWM3-fOBJpGHhxrF8euYkmzhqR9NYgstk1XjVOgMBEip0rsv1A5m-B8pHwJy-Crex309xu-Wd2zEquYT6isi01xTI1qPE1kogc70nkMWm5uos97lXCI/s320/IMAG0240_1.jpg" width="230" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kelley Edwards suffering greatly.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSPcOl5R2jB3-s9_xASGFLXWIoU_kaxml37sLv9G4rQrjKq97uuicH74a4qmE4oQJ0TDl9j51Az85nNIV60g8UL_7wUc6Q90kk1oze6UH_5uxX4euqOSKhmpWuZ87honKZ5M7grZwmc3GN/s1600/IMAG0233_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSPcOl5R2jB3-s9_xASGFLXWIoU_kaxml37sLv9G4rQrjKq97uuicH74a4qmE4oQJ0TDl9j51Az85nNIV60g8UL_7wUc6Q90kk1oze6UH_5uxX4euqOSKhmpWuZ87honKZ5M7grZwmc3GN/s320/IMAG0233_1.jpg" width="287" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Molly finishes the last climb.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZt4l3XsYOLQxanDljA9pQVnbdcpr4aCfYTMBOMwYg53VwKftqkY04Hn_1yLuO4jl0j_RQX1AVu11YBeFima28z5Vg18tF9I07mOSsS0Vxcr8bex32jbEHX1xdlN3ya6zOV8cq7exgE9JC/s1600/IMAG0247_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZt4l3XsYOLQxanDljA9pQVnbdcpr4aCfYTMBOMwYg53VwKftqkY04Hn_1yLuO4jl0j_RQX1AVu11YBeFima28z5Vg18tF9I07mOSsS0Vxcr8bex32jbEHX1xdlN3ya6zOV8cq7exgE9JC/s320/IMAG0247_1.jpg" width="278" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Molly had a great race.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJoHHsIokVHbHCTK6o5gpYP5v4pjgw7KuF6dWAtkCtvnNNZwX9cbVhQLbM1pyjyZrq-8gg9XKJN_MG0uc-EkGFxkkiaWZdWhNZhxWJtlo1kj7o00qfzYCOfo68J9SG9Vk2Q5vc0I70WoD6/s1600/IMAG0252_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJoHHsIokVHbHCTK6o5gpYP5v4pjgw7KuF6dWAtkCtvnNNZwX9cbVhQLbM1pyjyZrq-8gg9XKJN_MG0uc-EkGFxkkiaWZdWhNZhxWJtlo1kj7o00qfzYCOfo68J9SG9Vk2Q5vc0I70WoD6/s320/IMAG0252_1.jpg" width="276" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kelley learned a lot and gave everything.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Nz5BZSdFbUbjvlJ4dfkJFnQZDy3a8x4AfqPyHJFpzShsmXXDFz_Xm3qkNWyaJzQHDRDbqr3bvX2kwbyR7h03UmIJOj7GCQgJuDlZSMg3s_hE-oK-DrsObuPKylteTtRCD9ocA6Y0BhRK/s1600/IMG_6735.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Nz5BZSdFbUbjvlJ4dfkJFnQZDy3a8x4AfqPyHJFpzShsmXXDFz_Xm3qkNWyaJzQHDRDbqr3bvX2kwbyR7h03UmIJOj7GCQgJuDlZSMg3s_hE-oK-DrsObuPKylteTtRCD9ocA6Y0BhRK/s320/IMG_6735.JPG" width="306" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kelley and I got 4th, Molly 1st in her age group.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And now we'll move on to the <a href="http://www.familypromisehall.org/promise-to-ride-4-20-2013.html">Gainesville Promise to Ride</a>... Ride. This charity ride was for the Family Promise of Hall County. A non-profit organization that provides temporary housing for homeless children and their families. A great cause. I really enjoy riding with the ISI Cycling guys too. David Shabat and his son Ben showed up as well as many other local cyclists.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvcCwbP-VP0jhocwjXchI9DXjQeQ_rMJSd5c84TpDf0XAuVk5z_640FCtlEaPOvgMgLBc_7r4PWMDezTCrmvL5nwjfXRKX07z4iG7YiNPH4ILhiqVBWge1WDUQjXVV3nOlRP-dOtxB5bcm/s1600/IMAG0278.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvcCwbP-VP0jhocwjXchI9DXjQeQ_rMJSd5c84TpDf0XAuVk5z_640FCtlEaPOvgMgLBc_7r4PWMDezTCrmvL5nwjfXRKX07z4iG7YiNPH4ILhiqVBWge1WDUQjXVV3nOlRP-dOtxB5bcm/s320/IMAG0278.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I talked Stephen Sisk into it.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibBqT2MOinbEdnKFH2d8QutzK5EqSkAG8nMIAiV6DJH7BcBM-2-ted2DJjfe5JsMPAAsW7o5GvjrJsovyiAc2pCqjz-9QhnOQEwnGyqtCh0ETB_HzdQdxgKwDMjcJHTNqJLJbD5LuJIHuq/s1600/IMAG0283.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibBqT2MOinbEdnKFH2d8QutzK5EqSkAG8nMIAiV6DJH7BcBM-2-ted2DJjfe5JsMPAAsW7o5GvjrJsovyiAc2pCqjz-9QhnOQEwnGyqtCh0ETB_HzdQdxgKwDMjcJHTNqJLJbD5LuJIHuq/s320/IMAG0283.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Craig Tinsley rode in the ride t-shirt.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgoSLMVrAK3nopA35EWXc3nrkl_-J7M8DHfBNa0mCUsHuKG7jZGNpwTep5Gu0uRfWD1fJ_achK_2j2l0FZvLi0FVEXAT-0y89wvgu9pD5_phUM7IDqeLjsT0tKmlrM1WcuT6lqYz5RhVvX/s1600/IMAG0288_BURST002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgoSLMVrAK3nopA35EWXc3nrkl_-J7M8DHfBNa0mCUsHuKG7jZGNpwTep5Gu0uRfWD1fJ_achK_2j2l0FZvLi0FVEXAT-0y89wvgu9pD5_phUM7IDqeLjsT0tKmlrM1WcuT6lqYz5RhVvX/s320/IMAG0288_BURST002.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It was a beautiful day. But windy.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMBjpzWsPa-OSVUhHddPx536y7J_422OV4qHmeI5rJq86ViJSkShaidHG86Yj981r7tUeB1ZsKXLEsBIGvoUjnjqSIsp3ABHNhGW0brUXNkJnTXauq-D06sLQ-gDfinrHnosUDZ93Xq3v5/s1600/IMAG0294.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMBjpzWsPa-OSVUhHddPx536y7J_422OV4qHmeI5rJq86ViJSkShaidHG86Yj981r7tUeB1ZsKXLEsBIGvoUjnjqSIsp3ABHNhGW0brUXNkJnTXauq-D06sLQ-gDfinrHnosUDZ93Xq3v5/s320/IMAG0294.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We rode hard with the ISI Cycling guys.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnZRAy8s7UhDt5j0UDwLHUhR0hMN0lmLsf-EwUPSyoQ9JblCQ00M2i_cnMS3GNzwo1xn14OBbpsuIXN0RPzRIqhQ-P-kHXmhTAnl_6WtYWxsiGTi3vENvYjmRP7f6jlp0-RCB8WdMUIF4t/s1600/IMAG0295.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnZRAy8s7UhDt5j0UDwLHUhR0hMN0lmLsf-EwUPSyoQ9JblCQ00M2i_cnMS3GNzwo1xn14OBbpsuIXN0RPzRIqhQ-P-kHXmhTAnl_6WtYWxsiGTi3vENvYjmRP7f6jlp0-RCB8WdMUIF4t/s320/IMAG0295.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Craig won the door prize for being the first rider back from the metric ride. He made a dangerous move and cut in front of a pickup truck with 500 meters to go. The rest of us were too scared to try it. So tactics won that one for you Craig! But I'm going to whip out a movie quote and say, "The encounter was a victory, but we show it as an example of what not to do."<br />
<br />
First guy to tell me the name of the movie wins a water bottle.<br />
<br />
Next is a story from my good friend Sean Philyaw who took some team mates with him to the Sonny King races in Alabama. His crit didn't go so good but the next day he raced in the Foothills Road Race and that... well I'll let him tell you.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Sean Philyaw</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Foothills Road Race, Alabama</b></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/>
<w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
<w:Word11KerningPairs/>
<w:CachedColBalance/>
</w:Compatibility>
<w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--></b></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTeKtbjBeEquXSvR6017n7PHKfBRDAtpqgpMivP2ZJLRCU0pXJvc6yN2cpGX4GeKGtnDose1kaf4EDsb11N9nfqsdNIiNjVL4jF8HvQHmU6_XkCi66EqwI9IupuvMc-2xd3hPcr7nx7Bli/s1600/Foothills+RR+Moohlah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTeKtbjBeEquXSvR6017n7PHKfBRDAtpqgpMivP2ZJLRCU0pXJvc6yN2cpGX4GeKGtnDose1kaf4EDsb11N9nfqsdNIiNjVL4jF8HvQHmU6_XkCi66EqwI9IupuvMc-2xd3hPcr7nx7Bli/s320/Foothills+RR+Moohlah.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><b><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
</style>
<![endif]--><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">A beautiful day dawned in
Northeast Alabama. If you have never done this road race, it is a great
one and I highly recommend it. The Northeast Alabama Bicycle Association
did a great job organizing the Foothills Road Race, while providing a great breakfast
and excellent recovery lunch, which were all inclusive in the registration
cost. Job well done and I will be back.<br />
<br />
The topography there is identical to what we have here in Northeast Georgia,
with rolling hills and a few nice climbs thrown in to make it painful.
The previous days Sunny King Criterium was less than successful, but my legs
were now open and ready for adventure. The roll out of Piedmont, AL, was
neutral, but it didn't matter anyway. The fireworks would not start until
15 miles into the race.<br />
<br />
Attacks began going off the front, but this early in the race, everyone has
fresh legs, so the attacks are reeled back in no time. After the initial flurry
of attacks, a rest lull hit the peleton, so the guys from NGCA / Mission Source
decided it was time to hit it again. Good call! I tried to hold
wheels while the breaks were being brought back, just to conserve energy.
However, racing and not attacking a few times yourself is not very
rewarding. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MXGPp15P9U4">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MXGPp15P9U4</a><br />
<br />
By 30 miles into the 48 mile race, we had attacked enough to thin out the herd,
so we had a good strong group of riders together to close the deal.<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fhvUiaM5PVM">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fhvUiaM5PVM</a><br />
<br />
At mile 40, the impending doom of the final climb sets in and the group slows
down to eat one last time before releasing the fury of the climb on our bodies.<br />
<br />
I am not a climber and I can hold my own, but one must realize that a climber
will beat you to the top of a long climb every time. The best you can
hope for is to maintain contact and catch them on the way down the other
side. Having more mass does have its benefits at times. Before the climb,
I mentioned to a few of the other guys that are of similar physical makeup as
myself, that we would have to crest the climb with the lead group in sight and
then we could bomb down the descent in hopes of once again making contact with
said group.<br />
<br />
A group of four dangling carrots crested the hill ahead of us. We set out to
catch them and catch them we did. In fact, we blew right by them and I am
not sure how many of them were able to maintain contact as we flew through the
flat valley toward the finish. Climb video: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LP3pEXt-h_k">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LP3pEXt-h_k</a><br />
<br />
All this time, I tried to stay in a good position without having to do too much
work. When we got to the final corner, I was in great position and my
legs felt great. One fellow did a sneaky roll away in the last corner and
with 500 meters to go, I thought he would never have enough gas to make it the
the finish. Boy was I wrong. He made it, but just barely. In
hindsight, I should have jumped on his wheel at the corner and made my move
with 100 meters to go. Live an learn, but I was happy with the 2nd place
result and for having raced a smart race.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qDVju8-m6X8">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qDVju8-m6X8</a><br />
<br />
My new mantra is........I don't have to be the strongest, just the
smartest. You can attack and inflict pain all you want, but it's the
first one who crosses the line that counts.</span></b></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">I personally have found that the training is the easy part. Learning
tactics and then trying to make good tactical decisions when your heartrate is
pegged is the hard part. Either way, you cannot have any more fun in this
world than riding or racing with good friends. </span></b></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">Sean</span></b></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-size: small;">Thanks Sean! I can't wait to race this weekend at Twilight in Athens with these guys!</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-size: small;">That's all for this blog post. Have fun out there!</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-size: small;">Chad Hayes </span></span><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"> </span></b></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00306386622733315527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655692694530611569.post-1437957101685443892013-04-14T20:17:00.001-04:002013-04-14T20:17:29.461-04:00Brain SurgeryI'm sitting in the waiting room at Duke University Hospital feeling surreal. I've felt this way on several occasions in my 41 years. I can count on two hands the number of times and I can remember each one. Times like the birth of my children or my Dad's triple bypass or the loss of my friend TJ Pattillo.<br />
When my Dad was "opened up" it all happened really quickly. One minute he's doing a stress test and the next they are doing heart surgery. The surreal feeling hit me when I visited him immediately after the surgery. It's like a sick feeling coupled with the inability to concentrate. It's was my first real scared and helpless feeling as an adult. He was still on a ventilator and all hooked up to everything. Like in the Matrix.<br />
I don't think Dad likes that movie so I won't tell him.<br />
It was months later when he called my brother and I into his office and said, "Boys, you're going to do two things; get a lot of life insurance while it's cheap and get yourselves in shape." So began my biking obsession. Anyway, that was the first time I realized how fragile I am... we all are. It was obvious at that time that the only thing keeping him alive were those machines. And by the same token those doctors had saved him. In other words his life was in someone else's hands. He wasn't in control. And neither was I.<br />
<br />
Lisa is back there under anesthesia and a surgeon is cutting her head open to remove a tumor on her optic nerve. It's as simple as that. Yet unbelievably complex. The battery of people charged with making this whole thing happen are precise and methodical. They have a lot of confidence that somehow never becomes arrogance. Accept for some of the people at the reception desks. They obviously allow ignorant people to frustrate them which must make common courtesies from the rest of us seem trite. Here at Duke there are patients from all over the world, including up North where love don't grow, that can be a little demanding. So I understand why they are the way they are. But the doctors and nurses are great.<br />
<br />
This whole thing started a few weeks ago with a routine eye exam. That led to MRI's and referrals which ultimately led us to Dr. Allen Friedman, somewhat of a celebrity around here. My brother-n-law Joe Hicks did some research that led him to tell us Dr. Friedman was the Michael Jordan of neurosurgery. So here we are in Durham, North Carolina at arguably the best place in the world to have your brain worked on by evidently the best surgeon to do it.<br />
<br />
Somehow all that doesn't help. I'm still not in control. But as I learned with TJ's accident... there's really only one person in control... a Holy God. So let's call what I'm feeling... nervousness and not worry.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_vSKpx908zXpWF7R5BST7uMaSZVpeHVNUVdBnojAplIOM5rNGW3WDMnh3AHFcrEAsi9NoQueMcATLdCvZxbRYq_59sZeuGseaAOcC2REMqUs0pX1OZVK7vQdozz8vkhyphenhyphenYLo47bT2exOhH/s1600/IMAG0175.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_vSKpx908zXpWF7R5BST7uMaSZVpeHVNUVdBnojAplIOM5rNGW3WDMnh3AHFcrEAsi9NoQueMcATLdCvZxbRYq_59sZeuGseaAOcC2REMqUs0pX1OZVK7vQdozz8vkhyphenhyphenYLo47bT2exOhH/s320/IMAG0175.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5E0i3X41g0ipqlpQ-sCtAWa6MN6z7_f6RvkFbbGhrUSPpk2XppIRfYcwhoT1WTFA4WNlir5BlNRHVhVN02oeFd-LwgP-l9ZdXHID1usCGQ9XGrnlFrPWOeAX_MKYaNxQJ6bGGo5kAyfdq/s1600/IMAG0176.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5E0i3X41g0ipqlpQ-sCtAWa6MN6z7_f6RvkFbbGhrUSPpk2XppIRfYcwhoT1WTFA4WNlir5BlNRHVhVN02oeFd-LwgP-l9ZdXHID1usCGQ9XGrnlFrPWOeAX_MKYaNxQJ6bGGo5kAyfdq/s200/IMAG0176.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
<br />
We did managed to eat out the night before our pre-op. We lucked up and stopped at Metro 8 Steakhouse. Lisa was loving it because the chefs were from Argentina and prepared things like Empanata's and lots of Spanish flavored dishes. Everything was delicious and the servers were fun. It was perfect before the days to come.<br />
<br />
After pre-op we checked in at the hospital and waited. We were visited by 20 different people from residents to nurses to "experience coordinators". My favorite was the doctor who glued sensors on her head and shaved little spots to put some of them. He even traced them with a blue sharpie. And with that sharpie he made notes on her head for the surgery. It was very funny.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_AUktwNJiJiKoQeZ46FQ9SH-79wtc7h8ml6UxIHAg7qKpnrKXbxHS8zvLmN_E70-dO_7CyN5JirQxw0DVuaAC17WQMbjgfm1DOj21KI3eeBdcp4UPdW6q_sKRi0zonXv9v8nUgXVlRpjD/s1600/IMAG0181.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_AUktwNJiJiKoQeZ46FQ9SH-79wtc7h8ml6UxIHAg7qKpnrKXbxHS8zvLmN_E70-dO_7CyN5JirQxw0DVuaAC17WQMbjgfm1DOj21KI3eeBdcp4UPdW6q_sKRi0zonXv9v8nUgXVlRpjD/s320/IMAG0181.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I just watched her rolled back for surgery. They had her so jacked up on steroids she was talking a million miles an hour. To anyone. She was particularly happy with the "Georgia" red cap they put on her head. I love my Georgia Girl!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGYFdUSbPztLDp4daV2XhwP7rfEREH26dey5toNlL9uUoShHGZrsCmW6oTlW4sWMfjk0MX3mHhtoWEubFEq7312bHBuRQKM1Y3Y3hHgttxr7aMrnhopUsEZCWqmOsNXvchy4nF_NV71Zv9/s1600/IMAG0182.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGYFdUSbPztLDp4daV2XhwP7rfEREH26dey5toNlL9uUoShHGZrsCmW6oTlW4sWMfjk0MX3mHhtoWEubFEq7312bHBuRQKM1Y3Y3hHgttxr7aMrnhopUsEZCWqmOsNXvchy4nF_NV71Zv9/s320/IMAG0182.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
So... now I'm sitting here in the waiting room. People are snoring. It reminds me of some airport terminals. There are wide eyed newbies who pay attention to every sound and movement. Then there's the waiting room veterans who have their bags of magazines and pillows and one lady brought her own coffee creamer. Ma (Lisa's Mom) and her sister Emily will be here soon. My parents are on the way. And I feel ok. <br />
<br />
Before I left Georgia I asked my friends to share any surgery stories or cycling stories with us for encouragement and laughs. They came through so greatly that I knew I had to publish them. So here you have a series of short stories that may or may not amuse you. Thanks guys!<br />
<br />
<u><b><span style="font-size: large;">Stories for Lisa</span></b></u><br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/>
<w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
<w:Word11KerningPairs/>
<w:CachedColBalance/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><br />
<br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin-top:0in;
mso-para-margin-right:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt;
mso-para-margin-left:0in;
line-height:115%;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Ralph
Atkinson</span></b></div>
I was sitting with a family in pre-op. The wife was ready for surgery, and
had already had the dose of twilight meds to calm the fears. Surgery was then
delayed for a while and her buzz had lost its joy. We were then told time was
short and more twilight meds were given. It did not take her long before she
was feeling no pain. <br />
The surgical nurse walked in and the wife got very vocal. She was convinced
that Chick fil A was in charge of her surgery. We could not change her
perspective. The surgical nurse smiled and excused herself from the room. She
returned a couple seconds later and reintroduced herself to everyone as the
surgical nurse. We were puzzled. The wife asked what happened to the last
nurse. The reply was she was from downstairs and not part of the surgical team.
The wife calmed down and was ready for her procedure. The husband and I were
confused by the events. We were then asked to see the nurse in the hallway. We
met outside the door. We had not noticed on the first visit the nurse was
wearing a cow print head covering. She left and had replaced it with a standard
blue paper cap and all was fine. <br />
<div style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.5pt; border: none; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in;">
<div style="border: none; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext 1.5pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
The husband and I still laugh about it.</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Michel van
Musschenbroek </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In 1974, my
father introduced me to cycling. Living in Ottawa, we made the trek to Montreal
for the World Cycling Championships. Back then, the Road and Track events
were held at the same time. Pursuit, Sprint, Team Pursuit, Derny Racing
all on an open air wooden track. I remember having to wait over a couple
hours for the track to dry, because of the day's rain, until the officials said
it was safe. To help it dry up, they put a half dozen of the large derny
motorcycles on the track...I know that it was a cycling event, but at 12 years
old, watching 6 of these motor beasts drive around at 50kph...well, I thought
that was pretty cool. Coming from Holland, cheering for the Orange
jerseys became a quick learn. Roy Schuiten won the men's pursuit much to
the delight of my Father and I. When I think back, I guess the memory
which sticks out the most, was watching the men's sprint. During one of
the matches, one of the men fell hard. 30 minutes(I am guessing) he showed
up for the next round all bandaged up, but ready to ride. That is when I
realized, cycling is not for the light hearted, but in fact a very tough
sport. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Four years
later, we are on a family vacation in Europe. My father is going to
represent Canada at the World Masters Cycling Championships - St Johan in
Tirol, Austria. In our preparation to leave for Europe, I was fortunate
enough to be able to bring my bike along also. A nice little Reynolds 531
frame with CLB Brakes, Stronglight Crank, Campy Chorus derailleur/downtube
shifters and paired up to High Flanged Campy Wheels - tubular of course.
(side note - the frame is gone, but the components now sit on my father’s 1974
Motobecane that he rode at the world Masters). </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Landing in
Holland, we stayed with my grandparents. I was able to ride around with
my father on some of the local roads and experienced "pave" for the
first time. If the roads are well used and maintained they were quite
nice...not smooth, but comfortable. Older roads, where the bricks have
loosened, provide a bit of music. As you ride the bricks will hit against
each other, and since they are not all the same, there will be a tune coming
from the road. Then again, there are other roads, which have heaved
because of the loads of trucks and ground frost; these will down right knock
you off if you are not paying attention. My shoulders and forearms ache
after the ride, but somehow there is always a smile on my face because I am on
my bike. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">We had been
there about 3 weeks, when we heard about a local race which takes place on flat
roads between farmer's fields. The town was Weesp, not too far from where
we were staying. The riders had told us it was a fast race, and very
safe, as the road is quiet and there is little or no traffic. There were
four groups racing that night on the loop around the farmer's field. Each
lap was about 10 kilometers long. Groups 1 and 2 did four laps, 3 and 4
did three laps with the hope of finishing everything within about an
hour. All four groups line up with the first group on the line.
"Go". Thirty seconds for the second group to line up on the line,
a couple quick reminders about safety, then "go", group 3, then group
4, my group. I was just 16 at the time, not a very strong rider, but I
could hang on to a wheel as long as the pace was
steady......"GO". </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">My heart is
pounding, the group is attacking hard. The riders had told us that the
first 5km are super fast, because each group is fearful of being caught, and
are trying to catch the group in front. Being ready for this I made sure
to push through the pain so I could prevent being dropped. After about 10
minutes the pace slows down to a comfortable race pace and I exchange a couple
"hello's". They knew I was a Canadian and were all very
friendly to me. Going into the corners the pace would slow slightly and
the sprint out was hard, but the long straights were like a massive team time
trial. About 25 guys working well and pushing hard, peeling off the front
and sliding back for shelter from the crosswind. Something you should
know about Holland, it is always windy. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">One lap to
go. We turn the corner and begin heading down this long road, if the
previous two laps showed anything it would be a nice long group of
riders. What is going on? Everyone is sprinting like crazy, or at
least the pace is about 10-15% faster. I am breathing like crazy, my legs
are burning. Did I miss something about a "prime"? Was
there a sprint coming up? Soon I was about to find out why. Strung
out and pushing hard the road begins to spit up grass in little clumps about
2-3 inches round...."smack". This didn't happen the two laps
before, what was going on? Smack...another chunk of grass....Smack,
another, only this time...it hits me in the face. Immediately, the smell
fills my sinuses. This isn't just grass, but grass with fresh cow patties
mixed into it. You see, what happened differently between lap two and
three, was the farmer transferring his cattle from one field to the next.
As the cattle cross the road they carry with them, some of the grass, which of
course...has ...well...droppings. So that is what caused the uncalled for
acceleration. Those near the front finished clean, while those in the
back, such as an inexperienced Canadian, finished not so clean. </span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.5pt; border: none; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in;">
<div style="border: none; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext 1.5pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
There was much laughter and hand shakes
at the end of the race. Interestingly...my father had the same
experience. It may be my favorite memory.</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Trace Nabors</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Two reasons it's good to
get away from North Georgia for surgery:</span></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Crazy nurses:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The first time I
went in to have my ankle scoped, I ran into a crazy nurse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was in the pre-op room and they were
getting me ready.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This lady came in with
a razor and asked which knee they were operating on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Remember, this was ankle surgery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I said neither and she was seriously
bummed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The reason was that she said she
just loved shaving knees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mine were
still hairy at the time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They proceeded
to right the word NO on both knees and my left ankle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My right ankle got a YES and the disappointed
nurse went to go find a hairy knee somewhere</span></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>2.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Overzealous orderlies:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Aimee was
in the hospital a couple of years ago with some kidney issues.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Good thing I stayed up there with her most of
the time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After being there a day or so,
a guy with an empty wheelchair came in to the room and announced that he was
taking my wife down for dialysis!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I said
WHAT?!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>First of all, she doesn’t even
have the required surgically implanted port you need to do that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Second of all, no doctor had said anything to
us about dialysis, thank the Lord.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
told him to go get a second opinion on that and we never saw him again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Made me wonder what happens to people in the
hospital by themselves.</span></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">I hope everything goes
well and these two stories can be a short distraction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Consolas;">😊</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Later</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.5pt; border: none; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in;">
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="border: none; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext 1.5pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Alex Fuentes</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Some time back I was laid off from United Airlines and took
a job working at the </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Longstreet Clinic. Once they found out I spoke fluent
Spanish I was quickly put into service as the resident translator. I had one
patient in the oncology department who was undergoing chemo. During one of the
appointments, I had to translate to the doctor that he was experiencing nausea.
The doctor prescribed a suppository to help with that and scheduled
another appointment in two weeks. During the follow up the doctor asked how the
medicine was helping with the nausea. I had to translate,"Well doc, I
might as well put it where the sun don't shine because it is not doing a thing
for me!" The doctor really did not miss a beat. He said,"That
is exactly what you need to do with it." Moral of the story, never
assume people understand how to take medicine!</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.5pt; border: none; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext 1.5pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The second; my
brother oversees a wheelchair basketball league (no limits sports) in which
some of the kids are truly amazing. Two of athletes due to cancer had up to
half of their brain removed. Incredibly, their personalities are intact but
half of their bodies have significantly reduced capability or paralyzed
altogether. When my brother coaches, he will get on to the players just like
anyone else. When one of these special players missed a play during practice my
brother went to him and said, "What were you thinking Ryan!"
Ryan said, "What do I know coach, I only have half a brain."
Moral of the story, you can never take yourself too seriously!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext 1.5pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">But, in all
seriousness, we are here for you and your family. Let us know if you need
anything!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext 1.5pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Brian Oliver</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Funny story – My wife was diagnosed with a cancerous
carcinoid tumor in 2010. To make a long story short, she had to have 3
surgeries that summer (May, June, and July). One of them was to remove 15
inches of her colon. Being the funny guy that I am I told her she could
go as a semi colon for Halloween. It was not funny then, but it is funny
now. Safe travels.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.5pt; border: none; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext 1.5pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Sal
Badalamente</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I
don't have any funny jokes for this occasion but can tell something you surely
already know...Duke is an outstanding facility and Lisa is in capable hands.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Most
surgeons I have met are athletes or former athletes ... They can stand on their
feet and operate for hours without moving anything other than their arms, hands
and fingers. They are dedicated and precise individuals. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Brain
surgeons in particular are a special breed and they see the world very
differently. They will only accept perfection and I was once told by one that
he spoke personally with God regarding each of his patients.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">If
there is anything you need done, i.e.: lawn mowed, car moved or any life
related issue please do not hesitate to call or email.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Regarding
prayers... I am certain God hears me. Friends always appear when I need them
most, and my path always seems to present itself. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">This
week I will pray for Lisa's way to be clear. My best to Lisa...</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Your
friend,</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.5pt; border: none; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext 1.5pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Sal</span></div>
</div>
<br />
__________________________________________________________________________<br />
<br />
Surgery is complete<br />
<br />
The surgeon came out to tell us he was happy. He got all but some small bits of the tumor and believes she could gain all of her eyesight back in a few weeks. The tumor was benign which means "not cancer". It's the best possible news! Obviously it changed the mood and we started rejoicing.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0bxzm8-e2RH7m0GpB1rD0BesfbCmLrG8YmkqRslqXflNq0Eq_5uZJVexqUU7O-wERNDpJ37qtihybm2-f0TpEEEVwV76rV1pufF5U1HGyvPjaDP8Z9K2kNQD8n3D_s-8hMtiJISnFMzF2/s1600/IMAG0189.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0bxzm8-e2RH7m0GpB1rD0BesfbCmLrG8YmkqRslqXflNq0Eq_5uZJVexqUU7O-wERNDpJ37qtihybm2-f0TpEEEVwV76rV1pufF5U1HGyvPjaDP8Z9K2kNQD8n3D_s-8hMtiJISnFMzF2/s320/IMAG0189.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
After a couple of hours we were allowed to visit her in two's. Which really meant I could come out and trade partners because I wanted as much time as I could with her.<br />
<br />
Lisa was the perfect patient. That's what everyone told me each time we transfered into another wing of the hospital. Over the next 2 days we moved as Lisa got better. She flew through ICU levels until we got to one that forced her to walk around. She did great... and then took a long nap.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiiikZ7tezjOUDQn0di1novAQW8RTvzM2u17VzI-xIrwhuX3Xu1lJD0FgbFzjzEcs9d4wXzA_pJhp3gHcjFtsbg-VHlMn-Pv_cFE56AJwCgVmvVV72Wi-AQkbpT7-HCiA3gK1JY5k0wIO4/s1600/IMAG0190.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiiikZ7tezjOUDQn0di1novAQW8RTvzM2u17VzI-xIrwhuX3Xu1lJD0FgbFzjzEcs9d4wXzA_pJhp3gHcjFtsbg-VHlMn-Pv_cFE56AJwCgVmvVV72Wi-AQkbpT7-HCiA3gK1JY5k0wIO4/s320/IMAG0190.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
We'll be here another three days so I'm sure there will be plenty of milestones to come. For now I'm satisfied that we are well on our way to a full recovery. She's a real fighter. My wife. I'm so proud of her.<br />
<br />
Before I go I suppose since this is actually a cycling blog I'll share my one time getting to ride during the 6 days we stayed in Durham. It was on Saturday afternoon and Lisa had been sleeping all morning with the promise of more napping to come. I was tired of being in that room, in that chair, and there's only so much daily television that's worth watching so I made the decision to leave her in the care of the nurses and explore Duke University.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRS9HVRLSQnE9sGnM72efEOw7gyXoc1iY5kqzeNKGSTLxdpTfEgKlLILLhpv1XYrzubUT2mBtyCL0LZ_-qtS9rBV6gUee57krEfbJWmjWHIgMWdSuW9GsC7AxmP2Qlq3hS-G1j7xyX6Ly9/s1600/IMAG0194.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRS9HVRLSQnE9sGnM72efEOw7gyXoc1iY5kqzeNKGSTLxdpTfEgKlLILLhpv1XYrzubUT2mBtyCL0LZ_-qtS9rBV6gUee57krEfbJWmjWHIgMWdSuW9GsC7AxmP2Qlq3hS-G1j7xyX6Ly9/s320/IMAG0194.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I'd spent the morning memorizing the roads and finding things I wanted to see. There are beautiful gardens and a famous chapel and other pretty things. There are also lots of bike lanes because in a college town there are a ton of people on bikes. So I headed to the car to change and have at it.<br />
<br />
I rode around town and to the chapel. I visited a track meet and watched the races for a while. I found a really old cemetery but the oldest year on any stone I saw was 1946. I even found a cool path that traveled along beside a golf course next to a swamp. Weird. But nicely done.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5cQ2v2mRN0-miJOmcR6aRN75rXoqg521DxUlfF9hLkG1P6pV8_aUu3M93QlU5HyVxmLgFXTCDeuSfaT7q5uuPGDPXskuCNAJ5EhwwEs2z1x4uXrqbuoOS4iSfll_Uo1fCYSyXIBhyf_22/s1600/IMAG0199.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5cQ2v2mRN0-miJOmcR6aRN75rXoqg521DxUlfF9hLkG1P6pV8_aUu3M93QlU5HyVxmLgFXTCDeuSfaT7q5uuPGDPXskuCNAJ5EhwwEs2z1x4uXrqbuoOS4iSfll_Uo1fCYSyXIBhyf_22/s320/IMAG0199.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
After that I had to get out my trusty smart phone to find my way back to the car. The ride was a great distraction that wore me out so I could sleep in that stupid chair. I felt a little guilty for doing it but in the end I think I've shown how my bike ride was the right thing to do.<br />
<br />
I'm sure you all agree. :)<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading!<br />
<br />
Chad Hayes<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00306386622733315527noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655692694530611569.post-36332491080515118612013-03-28T12:00:00.000-04:002013-03-28T12:00:52.682-04:002013 Georgia Rides to the Capitol<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="73" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPr5AnM3_Pjqx3TDfjiyT7hJiwzHYwBVUhKdo_faJHVv2iarcq016sCn3_OOAxWq3F9PpdFlmPbZ11upAFa41izALSQBQFEqoF0msXhkLQ9bZaAdVrRU2oMjBo1jhKFdKiSHbXN4f0KV1/s320/GRClogo.PNG" width="320" /></div>
<br />
<br />
I've wanted to participate in <a href="http://georgiaridestothecapitol.org/">Georgia Rides to the Capitol</a> every year since it started 8 years ago. But the fact that it takes place on a week day always kept me from doing it. This year I decided to plan ahead and make it happen. Joe Elam was happy to join me and it didn't take but one time asking to get Stephen Sisk on board. The final and as it turned out crucial part of the plan came together when David Latty decided to join us. The initial plan was to meet at 6:30AM and David's wife would take us to the Reality Bikes start in Cumming. There we could ride to Roswell (20 miles) and join the police escorted ride into downtown Atlanta. A total of 40 miles. After the festivities my wife Lisa would pick us up and take us back to our cars. It was the perfect plan.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_yxvCOFEr7DhyphenhyphenLP4RfWv3v1cUpwSLJ5JKX45VMgKwe69gbYNaD2N2jMb5Lo0femruFMFAmtCi5ctlJJjhqB_k7zq6Mn6HCew8kvKW6mVAEUtgtwr0acy9ICMICbx2IsZw0iW5MzmfC2R4/s1600/IMAG0130.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_yxvCOFEr7DhyphenhyphenLP4RfWv3v1cUpwSLJ5JKX45VMgKwe69gbYNaD2N2jMb5Lo0femruFMFAmtCi5ctlJJjhqB_k7zq6Mn6HCew8kvKW6mVAEUtgtwr0acy9ICMICbx2IsZw0iW5MzmfC2R4/s320/IMAG0130.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The weather would be less than perfect however. Temperatures predicted to be in the 20's to start and we would never see 40 degrees. The day before our adventure we learned why they call it Reality Bikes... the reality of the weather caused them to cancel their leg of the ride. Our plan was thwarted.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV3nLruDHO7q3MNqWQVy_HEJO11mpT3aXUWBlOpmdC3yVylm-D8QsCtwA82JDJoxgcoHbRl7PB4CerrL43btkmOsrW7ABF4pGVP-d8rfOt_S0MEsjgJwuNREUAMQUFl4FEfI-jkywJuC0T/s1600/ridetocapitol1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV3nLruDHO7q3MNqWQVy_HEJO11mpT3aXUWBlOpmdC3yVylm-D8QsCtwA82JDJoxgcoHbRl7PB4CerrL43btkmOsrW7ABF4pGVP-d8rfOt_S0MEsjgJwuNREUAMQUFl4FEfI-jkywJuC0T/s400/ridetocapitol1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
But by the afternoon a new plan was born. This plan included a start from <a href="http://ridealphabikes.com/">Alpha Bikes</a> in Alpharetta, Georgia. Where cyclists are men. And one girl. Shivering like children.<br />
We met with a great group of locals and hit the streets with a fantastic police escort. It was really awesome! And snowing! The group was made up of some diverse riders too. The most diverse was a kid named Buli on a mountain bike who evidently doesn't have any cycling specific winter clothes because he seemed to be prepared to snow ski. During the ride he would jump the curve and ride on the sidewalk (which is illegal in Georgia) but he was obviously trying to get warm so I didn't fuss at him.<br />
<br />
We rode out of Alpharetta under escort and began picking up riders along the way. Our group of 13 soon swelled to around 30. By the time we made it to Roswell there were even more.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM3zB1g1BehS9EXTpZMZxjNrdknXI-Vt20EzYi3OHy0HGkjQ5cr0e9c5x_YO5F_hPIJ-O1OBMJ94sxZrYcrOY0SwkYyhML8G2p9gGsA6CDqbKem4ods8l1Ceeu65t1ehppEHuHy4SYuX-m/s1600/coffee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="159" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM3zB1g1BehS9EXTpZMZxjNrdknXI-Vt20EzYi3OHy0HGkjQ5cr0e9c5x_YO5F_hPIJ-O1OBMJ94sxZrYcrOY0SwkYyhML8G2p9gGsA6CDqbKem4ods8l1Ceeu65t1ehppEHuHy4SYuX-m/s320/coffee.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Java, Java, Java!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The pace was just enough to not really help me get warm at all. I had no fingers. My jaws were aching and I had the cold weather speech impediment going on. When we rolled up to the gathering place for the Roswell departure I saw it.<br />
Coffee! Piping hot coffee! Stephen and I could hardly contain our excitement. I could feel myself getting warmer already. We'll call it the Java effect. It's common among cyclists.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyXaoIO4OihEbPQ2tdf9VZi08OVD9wuBh3mxQZB5xbpyvZOkbCpoJiI3jC023IdKut79DNRW6jOz1K4PILVpQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
Next we gathered for the journey to the center of Georgia's universe. Atlanta! We would be starting with around 200 cyclists and pick up twice that many along the way.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5ZlpAdioCp8xPzKhGmjj9VFfIIvMOZq5k_C8327jjb-rZRGbOQdmeTYrJoU3p5MiVtBLTZtlgCGd1ba2TyByMHWcLVgisOHkYp93gsEHIsBv2eJB79C2tk_BfVbp3_TKLqJY5TWHDUI_O/s1600/IMAG0141.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5ZlpAdioCp8xPzKhGmjj9VFfIIvMOZq5k_C8327jjb-rZRGbOQdmeTYrJoU3p5MiVtBLTZtlgCGd1ba2TyByMHWcLVgisOHkYp93gsEHIsBv2eJB79C2tk_BfVbp3_TKLqJY5TWHDUI_O/s320/IMAG0141.jpg" width="320" /></a>There were plenty of dignitaries from all around the state. The Mayor of Roswell Jere Wood, an avid cyclist, gave instructions and told everyone who wanted to ride back to Roswell they could join him. That's 40 miles of riding so he truly is a cyclist. <a href="http://www.jacksonbrevet.com/">Jackson Brevet</a> founder Robert was there to lead the riders and keep us out of trouble. He did his best but after we got into Atlanta the number of riders made his efforts seem more like herding cats.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZlvBr9sljlw-J7vRViht4vRCtrk7A_c0QVXL07P80dCBzJP8uIrM3MxrINcr0qTWnKoeYCWJ5DbF6jvP5a_-ahWVALwMpRRiwvbdQKpJHI3efKe1gZGmlpFy0dnoVUEGOpk16AOlFbmW_/s1600/IMAG0147.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZlvBr9sljlw-J7vRViht4vRCtrk7A_c0QVXL07P80dCBzJP8uIrM3MxrINcr0qTWnKoeYCWJ5DbF6jvP5a_-ahWVALwMpRRiwvbdQKpJHI3efKe1gZGmlpFy0dnoVUEGOpk16AOlFbmW_/s200/IMAG0147.jpg" width="200" /></a>We left Roswell and started our 20 mile ride to downtown Atlanta and I lost my fingers again. We rode and talked and checked out some cool bikes people were riding. I didn't take too many pictures because I couldn't feel the phone in my hand. One interesting bike I saw was a guy riding was a hybrid, hybrid. His bike was a carbon road bike with disc brakes, a road bar with mtb paddle shifters mounted in the middle next to the stem and a Niner rigid fork. It was like the duck billed platypus of the biking world.<br />
<br />
I looked around and saw plenty of people who ride for sport but just as many who obviously ride for love. They just love riding a bike. Any bike. Some folks rode travel bikes complete with what seemed to be fully stuffed panniers. Just in case we got stranded at the Capitol I guess. Some people were completely unprepared for the cold. I rode behind one guy shivering so bad he was creating his own death wobble at 9 miles per hour. He had a thermal underwear shirt on with a 1980's jersey pulled over it. I didn't ride behind him long.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Ja48mijms4lifqaGiAD4nJpZ0OJc6kWvGBx0Jdn4HdRFY3dXjcdq2IwAYhlSL4aiMV7nSdGAHCpv1_rYWP88K3hrlDaKwaTMTkVjGyeat-sSXLQrP3U-PEwXmvOmgE3fXMY-sAk4BalY/s1600/roswellriders.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Ja48mijms4lifqaGiAD4nJpZ0OJc6kWvGBx0Jdn4HdRFY3dXjcdq2IwAYhlSL4aiMV7nSdGAHCpv1_rYWP88K3hrlDaKwaTMTkVjGyeat-sSXLQrP3U-PEwXmvOmgE3fXMY-sAk4BalY/s320/roswellriders.jpg" width="320" /></a>As we got into Atlanta there were more and more folks standing outside their businesses waving and cheering. The moto police were flying up and down the streets working frantically to block intersections and get our cycling caravan to the Capitol without incident. It was crazy and exciting.<br />
They stopped us just before we were to make a short climb to the Capitol and asked the dignitaries to come forward and be first up the hill. Joe Elam is on the Baldwin City Council so he got to go up the hill with them.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtiZKQTiHmhz22TGG-O8Ag9K8NcltNEeDNdqPj6kwY2ZIG00-v3Ud89-oBHoVclhb9_f5z-iuDzLNuyUKsJ-aWp2PLqwVo8iiUg92Nue-HqwowkmiVeA29mYXjpxkjdbokY8QWJF0L2_Yb/s1600/roswellmeetsdecatur.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtiZKQTiHmhz22TGG-O8Ag9K8NcltNEeDNdqPj6kwY2ZIG00-v3Ud89-oBHoVclhb9_f5z-iuDzLNuyUKsJ-aWp2PLqwVo8iiUg92Nue-HqwowkmiVeA29mYXjpxkjdbokY8QWJF0L2_Yb/s320/roswellmeetsdecatur.jpg" width="320" /></a>It was then that I realized we were waiting at a merge point. Another ride originating from Duluth was waiting on an adjacent street.<br />
The merging of the two rides would create a huge spectacle of cyclists to ride over the hill and in front of the Capitol. It was impressive. I can only imagine how much bigger it would have been if Punxsutawney Phil was a better ground hog.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwEyuG6_oU8AwYL_WFnYnvzwdYVrxFR7dI1X-pXIGHuinyn0t7_b1k-arNU8yi0x8Z3PZ4XviA5T22Z10U32g' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ADh7-91tEe7UBc5Mt5C83rNi7qyntBu6GraSl5kAxWkArD1zBwBbHIfwqadRY5cDxGq2AtR-VmNG5uUGvhaAwfnjbjSuy7UcIesl-0dePT3X4SfRDLDpiPSOtJUQZVyUMWSXsyjg1eS7/s1600/20130326_113437.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ADh7-91tEe7UBc5Mt5C83rNi7qyntBu6GraSl5kAxWkArD1zBwBbHIfwqadRY5cDxGq2AtR-VmNG5uUGvhaAwfnjbjSuy7UcIesl-0dePT3X4SfRDLDpiPSOtJUQZVyUMWSXsyjg1eS7/s200/20130326_113437.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="http://youtu.be/pMJbDxdVXjI">Video of the Capitol Parade </a><br />
<br />
We finally rode up the hill and in front of the Capitol. There were snacks and drinks and giveaways and banana's. But no coffee. Don't get me wrong I'm not complaining. I was just... spoiled.<br />
We hung out at the Capitol steps and listened to the Brent Buice from <a href="http://www.georgiabikes.org/">Georgia Bikes</a> encourage us. He introduced each dignitary scheduled to speak and it was great to hear them declare their support for our healthy life style and for the "Complete Streets" initiative.<br />
<br />
“In a nutshell what it says is that public roads are for moving people,
not just combustible machines such as cars and trucks,” Buice said.
“Really what we’re talking about is dedicated funding at both the
national and state level.”<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0-lXvzuPkCdRJ-d8npPm3VNcwAkG8_C2gV9_z16h80EqTVosnuNGoqkonJh4JyOSuWps8zm6smOxLeIkxEdfkYfmcv_2PPrRZ6a8GLJ0co7HgMbSwU8dhK7NBD5yJ_POdJZ3drESfjQhf/s1600/at+the+capitol.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0-lXvzuPkCdRJ-d8npPm3VNcwAkG8_C2gV9_z16h80EqTVosnuNGoqkonJh4JyOSuWps8zm6smOxLeIkxEdfkYfmcv_2PPrRZ6a8GLJ0co7HgMbSwU8dhK7NBD5yJ_POdJZ3drESfjQhf/s320/at+the+capitol.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://youtu.be/JDCUEksKNnE">Photo Slideshow</a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKUjqZr2ptsHe7Td9DbVpw1A4EHJwhyphenhyphen1gUR0sTckTKuzZLtDJ-9D2XhT0AwMRBwm8BlzwAJlLj0tvCw23D1uUTbygjf40LTPwBSrEHV6CvsFcXxMLaQzquLKBo6r4vVMt5v3dErVQl6BRG/s1600/caseyspeaks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKUjqZr2ptsHe7Td9DbVpw1A4EHJwhyphenhyphen1gUR0sTckTKuzZLtDJ-9D2XhT0AwMRBwm8BlzwAJlLj0tvCw23D1uUTbygjf40LTPwBSrEHV6CvsFcXxMLaQzquLKBo6r4vVMt5v3dErVQl6BRG/s320/caseyspeaks.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
Our very own cycling Lt. Governor Casey Cagle took time to speak to us even though it was a really busy day in the world of government. It goes without saying he supports cycling in Georgia and I would say he got the biggest cheer. He's a friend of mine so it was no surprise when he called me out in front of everyone. I guess I deserve it for DROPPING HIM LIKE A ROCK every time we ride together.<br />
My blog Casey. My blog.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dz2wVdgPJ6PqTu0X2dLqQ-XPlzem7bihU63j10uhedxB6Uwn7Ym-Oqq1po1JxrDHAPkwEXvUhuHsav-Z-iW' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<a href="http://youtu.be/_uib-mbaK2M">Full video of his speech. </a><br />
<br />
After that David jumped in with the Mayor of Roswell's ride back. Joe, Stephen and I gratefully accepted a ride in the van from my wife Lisa and daughter Ellie who got to walk around in the Capitol building and watch us ride in. The warm van was sooo nice. We hit the Chipotle Grill on the way back and despite my desire for a nap I went on in to work. What a way to start the day though.<br />
<br />
I want to thank the state wide bicycling advocacy organization Georgia Bikes and the Metro Atlanta Mayors Association for putting the event on. It was great to be a part of and I gladly lent my voice and presence to the effort. I will be doing that again next year for sure!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://downtown.11alive.com/news/news/194742-local-bikers-ride-capitol-safety-awareness">11Alive Coverage of the ride. </a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
__________________________________________________________________________<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>2013 Trillium Trek</b></span><br />
<br />
This past Saturday the weather was bad. The morning of the Trillium Trek trail race it was pouring rain and 40 degrees. But my daughter never asked to skip the race. So we got up and headed to <a href="http://www.elachee.org/">Elachee Nature Center</a> for a 5K or more romp in the mud. I estimate they still had almost 300 runners participate. Of course the usual suspects were there including Johnny Garner and Norma Rainwater and Marcus Seymour.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha8CIuU0Io6EFLonxyXgAWOE33wkQ_kEXBQyn3X3qOgstplTmoapR-wdvg_oamlse7GMTq5Nc3veoDsk3nKVl0f2rOr8xlu1P-7ilx8oDcQNo6o5gclJp1hLCtN2CmLNdIGKr1VS1jhWwd/s1600/IMAG0110.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha8CIuU0Io6EFLonxyXgAWOE33wkQ_kEXBQyn3X3qOgstplTmoapR-wdvg_oamlse7GMTq5Nc3veoDsk3nKVl0f2rOr8xlu1P-7ilx8oDcQNo6o5gclJp1hLCtN2CmLNdIGKr1VS1jhWwd/s400/IMAG0110.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQU3noktBaW4Uvy1lH-qHG0McGbvL-VXjPDCKApXkQ4ob_T2IAG8h45P228t2ngZjU6yCoy2SpJYWbopG97L_W7_wfLAE9c8IAAgimEi7GV1nZ3TeOufEDmP6HNNBDotUiHH5cBQmUmhG1/s1600/IMAG0123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQU3noktBaW4Uvy1lH-qHG0McGbvL-VXjPDCKApXkQ4ob_T2IAG8h45P228t2ngZjU6yCoy2SpJYWbopG97L_W7_wfLAE9c8IAAgimEi7GV1nZ3TeOufEDmP6HNNBDotUiHH5cBQmUmhG1/s320/IMAG0123.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />The great folks from <a href="http://www.runnersfit.com/">RunnersFit</a> were there taking care of the timing. And they had Krispy Kreme doughnuts! I let Molly split one with me before the race because it made her happy. What didn't make her happy was the weather and I couldn't blame her.<br />
<br />
<br />
<span id="goog_1578720651"></span><span id="goog_1578720652"></span><br />
The start went well but she and I both soon figured out why Johnny wears gloves a lot. I prepared us for everything but I forgot gloves. She told me later that her hands were cold the rest of the day.<br />
Anyway, she started well I thought but developed a bad pinch cramp that she couldn't run through. Might have been the doughnut... which is my fault as a parent.<br />
She had to walk for a while and we were passed by several ladies. Up to that point she had done well in the mud and slick roots while keeping her pace high.<br />
The cramp never completely went away but she ran the rest of the race as hard as she could. I was very proud of her 4th place Overall Women.<br />
<br />
Once back in the car and into some dry clothes we were having some quality Daddy/Daughter time. We headed to meet her Mom and sister at Cracker Barrel for brunch. We talked about the race and the conditions and the great people... but not about boys. Just as I planned.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.elachee.org/trilliumtrek/2013RaceResults.pdf">RACE RESULTS</a><br />
<br />
Thank you to all the runners who were so sweet to her! Trail runners ROCK!!<br />
<br />
And that wraps up another edition of Chad's News! Hope you enjoyed it!<br />
<br />
Have a great week everyone!<br />
<br />
Chad Hayes<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00306386622733315527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655692694530611569.post-21189778016119020872013-03-19T15:11:00.003-04:002013-03-19T15:11:43.937-04:002013 Chainbuster Green Gobbler Race<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1YEgKL0auGHFLeyXbXRGa-zyNVQGjkefWT1sSJGlIXrqpOCKg4wGoyarRAJHb2PhZvOMr6EYH20CmEjWBiGF9KOpTX4aMv-iS39QKzlVwy8z0qN3zck7Zo5rn5uB7THjVo2fibJ2cE9b4/s1600/chainbusterlogo.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="120" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1YEgKL0auGHFLeyXbXRGa-zyNVQGjkefWT1sSJGlIXrqpOCKg4wGoyarRAJHb2PhZvOMr6EYH20CmEjWBiGF9KOpTX4aMv-iS39QKzlVwy8z0qN3zck7Zo5rn5uB7THjVo2fibJ2cE9b4/s320/chainbusterlogo.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
There were so many things about this race I want to tell you. I'll keep it chronological so follow me on my emotional roller coaster if you can. I'm sounding a little melodramatic because the weekend started with my 11 year old daughter Ellie being diagnosed with pneumonia. She's my little ninja. She's never been this sick and it really burdened me all weekend. I tell you this so you'll understand why everything I'm about to write seemed like a dream. It was like being in a video game where you and your teammates can make great things happen, overcome unforeseen dangers, and achieve improbable victories... but reality is still there to remind you or who you really are what is really important.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHbuJwojJctf1gqIKQKGhzi3jaVMj6QSGQZTemDNVRVw_sDUwBGK7cntjJO6wps8PZB0Krv36SK0gr1MdkSMrGdZaIXaEeK2iIbYIhgk3FMYuj4ngHsKQFel3Snhi1TYNNK72CeRzRKfNs/s1600/CLINT+SANDERSn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHbuJwojJctf1gqIKQKGhzi3jaVMj6QSGQZTemDNVRVw_sDUwBGK7cntjJO6wps8PZB0Krv36SK0gr1MdkSMrGdZaIXaEeK2iIbYIhgk3FMYuj4ngHsKQFel3Snhi1TYNNK72CeRzRKfNs/s200/CLINT+SANDERSn.jpg" width="200" /></a>Normally I give in to every man's natural tendency to take an all expenses paid ego trip. I mean that type of mental 10 feet tallness is a gift from God. It's why we can charge into battle. It's what athlete's use to jack themselves up for a race. It's blind belief in the face of the unknown. We all have it. Some men just don't sign up for events where they can let it loose. It's this theory that helps me understand why people do Tough Mudders and Spartan Races. You have it when you're a kid and then forget it. But some of us fortunately find it and let our dormant testosterone loose once again.<br />
I like hanging out with those people.<br />
<br />
I say all that to say this... I was not able to take an ego trip this weekend for thinking about my daughter. When I left her on Saturday morning she was better but still hurting and sore. They had a doctors appointment that morning to see if she's made any progress. Before that my oldest daughter Molly was signed up to compete in the Dirty Spokes Trail Run at the University of North Georgia. I headed out to Conyers.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidX224f6vjW2-KV516Pznx69IkZMlfIkfl7VyMM_BijcNTnzhtUw7MWKPRB4N_GMjKPSuZ_LREhKXv_06_V8-cxEvzv0E6-f5ywK7lcRy0R1qyxedlRgM9i58XdICVz2wra0Hh5mLC0AII/s1600/480546_10200799770906804_1502040362_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidX224f6vjW2-KV516Pznx69IkZMlfIkfl7VyMM_BijcNTnzhtUw7MWKPRB4N_GMjKPSuZ_LREhKXv_06_V8-cxEvzv0E6-f5ywK7lcRy0R1qyxedlRgM9i58XdICVz2wra0Hh5mLC0AII/s200/480546_10200799770906804_1502040362_n.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<br />
Molly had a great race. She started near the front, which we talked about doing, and set a good pace. There were some other women running with her who actually coached and encouraged her. She tripped on a few roots but otherwise completed the course well enough to earn 2nd Overall Women.<br />
<br />
She loves competing with all the great people who frequent these events. The atmosphere is a lot like what you find at mountain bike races. Just great people everywhere, doing there own things but happy to join any bit of fun that happens.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVuf-wyngcOZ4T5ACIYAg3icL-cGvLk-6szFxQFQyPUm3jGbvur0tih_fY9pbd4BRxW6BR0EKR3F1YVhUWAmBv0OPUS0Xo6vjdCTo85Xz4aV5qZV2whIlGGn4uG3xvQOb2bmFuJW-O8OsY/s1600/2ND+Overall+Female.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVuf-wyngcOZ4T5ACIYAg3icL-cGvLk-6szFxQFQyPUm3jGbvur0tih_fY9pbd4BRxW6BR0EKR3F1YVhUWAmBv0OPUS0Xo6vjdCTo85Xz4aV5qZV2whIlGGn4uG3xvQOb2bmFuJW-O8OsY/s320/2ND+Overall+Female.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
In the meantime I arrived in Conyers and came flying out of the truck to get ready. I normally lead the kids race and I enjoy it. Thankfully Kenny had postponed the race by 15 minutes so I could get my act together. We lined up the kids and for some reason he let me talk to them. I said something stupid like "are you guys ready to race?" I lead them around the course where all the racers cheered as they went by. It's very cool. It always helps me keep things in perspective.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSlaKAIs-15y5zckWrojU3roc991V0_6mHPME24jRNa6rA93IIJBFCyz1-efUvrnSP2D4S6QANhCh2ul7IZmSuouWaxqJp5xAIEedul32LIjVv3vvySrPwsbcDQiRAROI3j_SKBsmq_VJp/s1600/Kids+Podium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSlaKAIs-15y5zckWrojU3roc991V0_6mHPME24jRNa6rA93IIJBFCyz1-efUvrnSP2D4S6QANhCh2ul7IZmSuouWaxqJp5xAIEedul32LIjVv3vvySrPwsbcDQiRAROI3j_SKBsmq_VJp/s320/Kids+Podium.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL0RcyXQRJ0Hv5lbEsJxiiNPxywXMHlXWfWcmqZ4MvjgoCiERd9wsdfVxLAsYFl9t8IPg73r_H4eLm333ki6vg1yTYTKxITX2UlneQZQKN1ifqt5K9RrR7-n11d3av2wM2UAzp_UNmxK0M/s1600/IMAG0057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL0RcyXQRJ0Hv5lbEsJxiiNPxywXMHlXWfWcmqZ4MvjgoCiERd9wsdfVxLAsYFl9t8IPg73r_H4eLm333ki6vg1yTYTKxITX2UlneQZQKN1ifqt5K9RrR7-n11d3av2wM2UAzp_UNmxK0M/s320/IMAG0057.jpg" width="320" /></a>Then it was time to race. My team mates for the day were David Shabat (as usual) and a newbie named Randy Hemphill. Although you'd never think he's new to mountain bike racing because he rides a shiny new Cannondale Scalpel 29er Full Suspension bike. It's purdy.<br />
I don't really know Randy that well. He is soft spoken and friendly and very receptive to all the advice I felt like giving him. He's no stranger to competition. He's a runner who recently discovered that running all the time is hell on your joints when you get older. I liked him right away. And I liked him even more after he blistered his final lap. More on that later.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9PSZdKQzvZuVmPSvrxUwwRhOHdaqad8Ek2O8a4k1PKmXQ0-p9gzOtZCQ3r-lASQWcJ0L5XnDBGn0MBOUQE6Um17r927ulwYs2CNyz2zmj3XHdyQ8cB7rb7HUYkmXNRxASnsGl_zfS2df0/s1600/startfinish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9PSZdKQzvZuVmPSvrxUwwRhOHdaqad8Ek2O8a4k1PKmXQ0-p9gzOtZCQ3r-lASQWcJ0L5XnDBGn0MBOUQE6Um17r927ulwYs2CNyz2zmj3XHdyQ8cB7rb7HUYkmXNRxASnsGl_zfS2df0/s320/startfinish.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdtHl9caI3qy_0B4JEZ8xFuiwpu6zvDeHdSpD7xE5c4vHOUT5k10TODElEIzi3fwHOacSUSe5-DnhLmaMM_ihsarZIHqEjLsuRaHCqi7ptgac1YobdUL5YcChuMUFwbDsjuY1ovIMM6h-k/s1600/IMAG0047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdtHl9caI3qy_0B4JEZ8xFuiwpu6zvDeHdSpD7xE5c4vHOUT5k10TODElEIzi3fwHOacSUSe5-DnhLmaMM_ihsarZIHqEjLsuRaHCqi7ptgac1YobdUL5YcChuMUFwbDsjuY1ovIMM6h-k/s320/IMAG0047.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Start</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This year the start/finish and the course itself was set up totally different than any other time I've raced there. We raced counterclockwise and the two worst climbs on that side of the road were unfortunately included. There was a lot of open down hill/gravel road/20 mph types of opportunities as well. Looking back on it now I think it may be the best course I've ever ridden there.<br />
<br />
The start was too short! Kenny!<br />
I had some insider information so I knew to get off to a blazing start and get to the woods in the lead group. Others had the same idea but ended up knocking heads. Todd Case had to stop and straighten his handle bars.<br />
I flogged myself to get with the 7 leaders and before we were a mile in I realized there was a gap to the top five. I went around the two guys that let it happen but couldn't bridge to the leaders.<br />
<br />
David couldn't figure out my phone so his video of the start actually ended up being a short clip of the sprint for the woods. But it's kind of cool so I wanted you to see it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwbvBck13Ke1RoJ0s-h_TUK-ub770gSmBRWiw1jiTbUAoV2axr5GDXPjFCjtBlXtD4Zh2VjyqAEo9cY0RVxbA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
I wanted to try and stay with Rob Butler. He and Dustin Mealor were going for the 2 Person Male Expert Category and Rob is fast. He also weighs 20 pounds less than me and is 20 years younger. I figured... hey... you might as well shoot for the stars right? Well he was in that lead group that I lost at the start. So I was surprised when I caught up to him about 4 miles in. Turns out he had some stomach issues and backed off. He still beat me to the finish by almost minute. Punk.<br />
I filmed one of their exchanges. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyKvp0GZgiIEdB6AIxYpME7yleGG-QeSzGppiFFwCsW2sJT9HyKV2rsuA-im-HOe3IUMs_5yvg01OmM5_rqkA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<span id="goog_1460670207"></span><span id="goog_1460670208"></span><br />
I made my exchange with David and sat down to keep from puking. I went a little too hard on a pan flat section of forest road just before the finish. After I recovered I started telling Randy about the course. He seemed a little nervous which is good. Nervous energy translates into adrenaline.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbGOzLDRn7iEIEJ6ce4opdVTUomK35u8KyleDaY3-UzZS0zhkslj5rPwL6_v1Mbi0-B0S3kCLIFGA8ZxRL_c5AQvoWkpMY9TqwUvcekCkOjDaLWH1WAMIy2F-9jWJt13gfY1QjWSuXLT6c/s1600/ND4_0914-(ZF-8139-22590-1-001).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbGOzLDRn7iEIEJ6ce4opdVTUomK35u8KyleDaY3-UzZS0zhkslj5rPwL6_v1Mbi0-B0S3kCLIFGA8ZxRL_c5AQvoWkpMY9TqwUvcekCkOjDaLWH1WAMIy2F-9jWJt13gfY1QjWSuXLT6c/s320/ND4_0914-(ZF-8139-22590-1-001).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
While we waited I called to check on Ellie and hear the good news about Molly's race. Then I walked around a little to listen to the stories everyone is always telling about the start and the course.<br />
Randy and I sat and watched all the exchanges coming in and soon David was back and we put Randy on course.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwiDtl_n4NQTnVMSKxtk_qYNu5KzUFz82p3-gKhRd95iW1EKVw9f6vewDkPEB3W8uiRF7woEu4BNhIcSy8Vbg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
As results started being posted we tracked our progress and kept eating and drinking. My turn came back around and this time I settled down knowing we had a lead. It was a beautiful day to be racing a bike and I wanted to enjoy it a little.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgg-HQd9K91K4v_y4Fm-nUBYo0ebGg6LvlixdS-DKlS_JRZMeePQwqG9upx2sI_LzWaqyrByLlA49pUKztat0J3KatK_WjYh8FDOFVKlNoQxUv10fBAQ8Y1LpKrrqerpvdo4Wmfi4amWTd/s1600/IMAG0063.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgg-HQd9K91K4v_y4Fm-nUBYo0ebGg6LvlixdS-DKlS_JRZMeePQwqG9upx2sI_LzWaqyrByLlA49pUKztat0J3KatK_WjYh8FDOFVKlNoQxUv10fBAQ8Y1LpKrrqerpvdo4Wmfi4amWTd/s320/IMAG0063.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu17sjg3B1BQspuNG30cG5rKgd7ryJ8WlcY1cfygg9CJaOBwecZjpMDUROZTKLpYGNSnScOmgLO_2wVQMWsASf8SJRpTBU5-XNwO7hzhuV8CF0KT3CUvpwK9_hWIrYKaps3EmHk5VaCnMb/s1600/IMAG0058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu17sjg3B1BQspuNG30cG5rKgd7ryJ8WlcY1cfygg9CJaOBwecZjpMDUROZTKLpYGNSnScOmgLO_2wVQMWsASf8SJRpTBU5-XNwO7hzhuV8CF0KT3CUvpwK9_hWIrYKaps3EmHk5VaCnMb/s200/IMAG0058.jpg" width="200" /></a>Dustin and Rob would come hang out with us and we'd laugh about stuff. We had a great spot right behind the staging area to watch all the exchanges and hear all the stories. I'd say there were around 300 racers. I would also estimate that the Coed division was the toughest. Those folks were slugging it out within minutes of each other at each transition. I especially enjoyed watching Rich Kidd when he would get the chip from his team mate Missy Petty. He would run up and get it and then bounce back to his bike like he'd just been given the key to Pandora's box yelling something like "race my bike, race my bike!" It made everyone smile every time.<br />
<br />
Then "it" happened.<br />
David Shabat's carbon handle bar broke on
the left side when a tree reached out and slapped it. We're not sure
where on the trail it happened but he was forced to ride the rest of his
lap with one side gone. There was just enough left to use to keep him
stable but no way he could get crazy on speed. But get this, his second
lap was only 2 minutes slower than his first. Unbelievable!<br />
<br />
Here's the story in David's words:<br />
<br />
<div class="mbl notesBlogText clearfix">
<span><div>
<i>Chad, Randy, and I
were off to a great start as a three man team, down at the Chainbuster
Green Gobbler 6 Hour Mountain Bike Race at the Georgia International
Horse Park in Conyers, Georgia. We already had a good lead on second
place and didn't want to lose that nice cushion. Before the race, Chad
said he "wasn't feeling it" which simply meant he wasn't on his bike,
yet. Randy was racing mountain bikes for the first time, so he had that
first-race excitement going on. I was going in like an old pitcher at a
playoff game - willing to push it harder than I should on a body that
has a few known limitations. What I didn't expect is that my body was
stronger than my bike.</i><br />
<br />
<i>On my second lap out, I was flying.
I was out there with a solo rider who was 20 years my junior. He was
whooshing through the singletrack twists and turns with all the usual
flawlessness of fellows who, in their 20s, are training and aren't out
goofing off, like I was when I was his age. At one point, out of some
wild hair, I passed this guy on a climb and thought I'd put enough of a
gap on him to even out my lack of grace in the tight turns. </i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqCM1T_5oWQ3foyJF2fkBvWoghEempSdz63hgzmxqOK7AN-L47-y2Ud1pCmz18Xjvi7CXwLvSR-F9Ospya8HsFtw_ritVFstCHGaeTG51fnSKVFMb1x1gfFRsm7UIqdHahd3vz6imgFM0N/s1600/barbroke.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqCM1T_5oWQ3foyJF2fkBvWoghEempSdz63hgzmxqOK7AN-L47-y2Ud1pCmz18Xjvi7CXwLvSR-F9Ospya8HsFtw_ritVFstCHGaeTG51fnSKVFMb1x1gfFRsm7UIqdHahd3vz6imgFM0N/s320/barbroke.jpg" width="320" /></a></i></div>
<br />
<br />
<i>I was horribly wrong.</i><br />
<br />
<i>Coming
out of a deep dip that took us through a stream crossing, I came flying
out and into a right hand turn (watch this phrase) and came out a
little wide. Mr. Young Fellow blew by me and we both laughed because it
was some kind of karma that put me in the chase again. So, this time I
played along. I stuck to him like glue. I figured this would be my
best lap, yet.</i><br />
<br />
<i>I was horribly wrong.</i><br />
<br />
<i>We went
into another hard - right hand turn - and again I was a little wide and
tagged a tree that was about 4 inches in diameter, with my left hand.
I heard an awful crack! I thought "well this is it, I broke my hand to
pieces". No, not at all. My carbon handlebar saved my hand, but it
snapped off between the brake lever mount and the gear shifter mount.
"Well, you've got half a lap to cover and you still have all your rear
controls still working!" I was still coasting when that thought crossed
my mind. And off I went, holding the remaining piece of handlebar on
the left AND the broken end of the bar with the grip and brake lever.</i><br />
<br />
<i>I was unstoppable.</i><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV-eaAQ4lZLIWCmJg7KXvpqiVAT3NTKXdseokGMs7jfnaCCMBjBKbPcY4vsrOfWn5S9qpyraDIACfSaII3ZYGSjkb05lCKwkA7-7V0L_nxCuox_fQ_2Rw2fAScpGxf7ptFOv7DSk4LY5Kw/s1600/David+w+broken+bar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV-eaAQ4lZLIWCmJg7KXvpqiVAT3NTKXdseokGMs7jfnaCCMBjBKbPcY4vsrOfWn5S9qpyraDIACfSaII3ZYGSjkb05lCKwkA7-7V0L_nxCuox_fQ_2Rw2fAScpGxf7ptFOv7DSk4LY5Kw/s320/David+w+broken+bar.jpg" width="320" /></a><i>My
adrenaline was pumping as if someone was pouring it into my blood from a
bucket. I was passing people on the big dirt climb. I passed more
people on the power line climb. I was skidding out in the hard curves,
but managed to stay on the bike - oddly enough - minus the left half of
me sticking out the normal width, I wasn't hitting anything with my left
side when I went into hard right hand turns! Ha ha ha! Amazing.</i><br />
<br />
<i>So, now I have half a bar and I am under pressure.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<i>I
was worried that I had wasted a bunch of time with my handlebar mishap.
So, I pushed as hard as I could through the rest of the course,
especially the gravel road section, where I simply brought both hands to
the center and rode in a time-trial position until I got to the
transition area - still passing people until the end.No one on our team
even knew I had broken my bars. Chad only looked at my leg, grabbed
the chip, and put it on Randy to send him on his second lap. I couldn't
stop laughing for the rest of the race. I said a quick prayer of thanks
that it was only the bar and not my hand or worse. </i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIn-drMNMUII0Lag60_vNv-Ky-bpsKIOw2ItKc5J6EVrYZRGW-M6zB0ju8o0ftw6GTiWuPMW3SwGqH5DAaH4aLIExAw_9XG6F0HwEPr8r6jQgZl_oI0zLS89vjoqcwdBJb1YSubgtnTcIp/s1600/IMAG0085.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIn-drMNMUII0Lag60_vNv-Ky-bpsKIOw2ItKc5J6EVrYZRGW-M6zB0ju8o0ftw6GTiWuPMW3SwGqH5DAaH4aLIExAw_9XG6F0HwEPr8r6jQgZl_oI0zLS89vjoqcwdBJb1YSubgtnTcIp/s320/IMAG0085.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>I
have to thank José from Performance Bike for working with the other
person I have to thank, Paul Dallas, for lending me a bar for my third
lap and swapping the bars out and back.Randy and Chad both did awesome. I
cruised through my third lap - and was SLOWER than on that fateful
second lap where I only had half a bar for half the course. I need to
find better ways to get my adrenaline pumping! Cheers to Chad and Randy
for being the fantastic gentlemen and skilled athletes and competitors
that I relied on. They brought us victory, while I brought us a little
comedy (and some not-too-bad lap times).</i><br />
<br />
<i>Cheers,</i><br />
<i>David </i></div>
</span></div>
<br />
While David was out on his third lap with his borrowed bar Randy and I started wondering if he could get a third lap in. The debate went something like this;<br />
We don't need it... but it would be cool to have 9 laps... but David may not get back in time, we need 42 minutes... yeah... but it would be cool to get 9 laps. And so we decided that if there was anything near 42 minutes left when David got back that Randy would go for it.<br />
<br />
David arrived with 42 mins 50 seconds left in the race. Randy was ready and flew out of transition. Pretty fun stuff.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCFOCUO_9dav-7V2gFTWGiOh8I57t6Ibrvbd3rJhPMJXrtE7r3HokHNyM86x61_lpieHD5IkQb1A4H-WOOljuUoNlqz2ieXKbtHBrkwburBXIANhWYhN56x4ZfOATGr3kjo6KUL2vrBPl7/s1600/IMAG0086.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCFOCUO_9dav-7V2gFTWGiOh8I57t6Ibrvbd3rJhPMJXrtE7r3HokHNyM86x61_lpieHD5IkQb1A4H-WOOljuUoNlqz2ieXKbtHBrkwburBXIANhWYhN56x4ZfOATGr3kjo6KUL2vrBPl7/s320/IMAG0086.jpg" width="320" /></a>I synchronized my phone with the race clock and headed out to a corner of the field I like to call the teaser spot. The course designers bring you out here and you think you're almost done but they turn the course right back into the woods for a little more pain. It's a big tease.<br />
<br />
Randy came flying down into the field so fast I could only snap a picture of his exit back into the woods. Then he caught some guys in front of him and because he was with them I missed getting a shot of him on the gravel road.<br />
<br />
But it's all good. He finished with about 30 seconds to spare giving us our coveted 9 laps.<br />
Nicely done for a "newbie".<br />
<br />
Let the celebration begin!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFA4ADHiopN-i0mF08M8YbnsQNTwaf3pgHfmxLUPtE5hL8wnclPZx1PWlxp-cKTILy-Jd1o9CpKLmd494P1B_i0P0JHrFJ5xOYmD8dQiT8c4FV3yE4XTpvwOIB_hdTFgNhh-dw-2XmQDzF/s1600/IMAG0099.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFA4ADHiopN-i0mF08M8YbnsQNTwaf3pgHfmxLUPtE5hL8wnclPZx1PWlxp-cKTILy-Jd1o9CpKLmd494P1B_i0P0JHrFJ5xOYmD8dQiT8c4FV3yE4XTpvwOIB_hdTFgNhh-dw-2XmQDzF/s320/IMAG0099.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rob Butler & Dustin Mealor, 2 Person Male - Expert</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEE5PFaToBs2L54hMC4hhokAgSLNG1MN6bHHbsWX4c6D-8hH8RAR_hC-FNeUaXwHwuy9X7NPfYZBOHlcd6zo1uSnTVrwyekxJyKh4-b4A3WzusPKT_AossAv7kVt-HACPIC4HRb_a6cW0e/s1600/ND4_1139-(ZF-8139-22590-1-002).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEE5PFaToBs2L54hMC4hhokAgSLNG1MN6bHHbsWX4c6D-8hH8RAR_hC-FNeUaXwHwuy9X7NPfYZBOHlcd6zo1uSnTVrwyekxJyKh4-b4A3WzusPKT_AossAv7kVt-HACPIC4HRb_a6cW0e/s640/ND4_1139-(ZF-8139-22590-1-002).jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Randy Hemphill, Chad Hayes, David Shabat - 3 Person Male</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It was a great day for racing! We had a great time and even won our category (trust me that isn't always the case). And then, even though I was invited to eat at Cracker Barrel with my team mates, I was suddenly very home sick. So I said goodbye for now to my friends, new and old, and headed back to Flowery Branch.<br />
<br />
Next up is the <a href="http://www.georgiaridestothecapitol.org/">Georgia Ride to the Capitol</a> on Tuesday, March 26th! I think Joe Elam and I will try to join the Reality Bikes ride from Cumming and then hook up with the Lt. Governor Casey Cagle in Roswell. Join us!!<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading!!<br />
<br />
Chad HayesChadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00306386622733315527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655692694530611569.post-88377508808057636602013-03-14T18:37:00.001-04:002013-03-14T18:37:14.376-04:002013 Dirty Spokes Duathlon Fort Yargo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFMzqRyuPzXOcL8XM0ghG9UUdhJtn4FLPEUCddig7SwLfKGpiisHGyXN2yTw2eKepDs_76pUOrfgXe6OouZiEZB-BhnRFGTVHszTZRel8tb7BcC00UPau-5Kzwbqp2MPgYRHSSuSq59IeN/s1600/IMAG0024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFMzqRyuPzXOcL8XM0ghG9UUdhJtn4FLPEUCddig7SwLfKGpiisHGyXN2yTw2eKepDs_76pUOrfgXe6OouZiEZB-BhnRFGTVHszTZRel8tb7BcC00UPau-5Kzwbqp2MPgYRHSSuSq59IeN/s400/IMAG0024.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
This Saturday I raced with my friend Kelley Edwards in the 2 Person Male Category at the <a href="http://www.dirtyspokes.com/">Dirty Spokes</a> Fort Yargo Duathlon. He is not a pure runner. In fact he's a Crossfit freak. Which doesn't lend itself to running at all. At least not running fast. But in spite of that he ran like the wind and we finished well.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyls3DAA0Mc9n9bCI8QpI5bepqBzYxFo46IOSuYMVZ9NkxzjnpUy42bcgxsSWmIuAtjUo906tvvpCW2V5BDxAtZeTI6f785y2iow7xeVrmKyacvNnZkC4_8YwJgGqhSOjufoKgiR1lE1CT/s1600/IMAG0012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyls3DAA0Mc9n9bCI8QpI5bepqBzYxFo46IOSuYMVZ9NkxzjnpUy42bcgxsSWmIuAtjUo906tvvpCW2V5BDxAtZeTI6f785y2iow7xeVrmKyacvNnZkC4_8YwJgGqhSOjufoKgiR1lE1CT/s320/IMAG0012.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We arrived in time to set up by the lake in the sunshine. It was 35 degrees but warming up quickly. I knew that Molly would overdress so I had her put a wind proof jacket on and Lisa forced her to go jog. At the starting line Lisa took the jacket. Molly said after the first mile she forgot about the cold.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUNK-ZdrAfTkckD25E-oCBMaBYnl582l6vqV4-xqga3I3aOjeKKBrtyKrpz8JkiojuWAY9pXVFvjCOgJJkoWS5jvlBHjLYKkWiyrle8TgV8AaSUiz2hebJi4ZVncHUnP21i9rDFws9GgM7/s1600/IMAG0018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUNK-ZdrAfTkckD25E-oCBMaBYnl582l6vqV4-xqga3I3aOjeKKBrtyKrpz8JkiojuWAY9pXVFvjCOgJJkoWS5jvlBHjLYKkWiyrle8TgV8AaSUiz2hebJi4ZVncHUnP21i9rDFws9GgM7/s320/IMAG0018.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
My good friend Kelley Edwards was my partner for the 2 Person Male Category. He did the running and I did the mountain biking. As everyone lined up for the start they were clowning around. If you look carefully at the first picture, the one before the start, you will see that Molly is towering above everyone else. That's because Kelley put her on his shoulders as if he was going to run with her there. I tell you what... the Dirty Spokes races are great fun!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxHeZHAXm0Lc77tnCFjOHPcSBv4TX5XTzENQleMt1Quy6i7ys2Y1V53GnRUuYGGzoKXEa_WTteNZIdDZ3pGiA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAkltmry-Wt4L7ZaY5h9DIlUUKOkZw97s3w87q9eb-Iy1YujNQxKuIDiARkgwEoxL08mw72HWUp71XGrXRn4YN1aQi6-G2_uAyZsbJR0y2GM_nqDL-KcC41ptkdc1_lLC5sY1WzaOXGUW6/s1600/IMG_6611.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAkltmry-Wt4L7ZaY5h9DIlUUKOkZw97s3w87q9eb-Iy1YujNQxKuIDiARkgwEoxL08mw72HWUp71XGrXRn4YN1aQi6-G2_uAyZsbJR0y2GM_nqDL-KcC41ptkdc1_lLC5sY1WzaOXGUW6/s200/IMG_6611.JPG" width="200" /></a>After they ran into the woods I began my warm up which usually consists of riding the first 2 miles of the course. There were no other riders out there and I felt calm in the peaceful forest of Fort Yargo. I'm very familiar with the trails there and with the effort I was about to give. As I made my way back I noticed the solo leader had already made it back from his run and was on the bike. I went straight to the finish and waited for my team mate.<br />
Kelley ran up and attached the timing chip and off I went.<br />
<br />
The 11 mile loop was longer than I expected. I kept a good pace and pushed myself on the climbs. It took longer in the first half of the loop because of a lot of lap traffic I had to kindly and safely pass. Once I got through the bulk of those riders I got into a nice hard rhythm. Since this race was only about an hour I kept my rear shock locked out (Pro Pedal ON) and locked the front shock about half way. My American Classic Tubeless wheels were set at 30 pounds of pressure. It was a really good setup.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP-308Q6SmTxZV8eSUYloJTZF5hjpsR01PuTYcT9d3W4PvslKt9zXpmlcSjSFKqbzIUoL-NGGiqNYClvF982ICfoAolq3mh-6oLVSO0wMc8p5A5j3Gc8lkATPuGOfUi4eJ-qyEg804P4tw/s1600/IMG_6618.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP-308Q6SmTxZV8eSUYloJTZF5hjpsR01PuTYcT9d3W4PvslKt9zXpmlcSjSFKqbzIUoL-NGGiqNYClvF982ICfoAolq3mh-6oLVSO0wMc8p5A5j3Gc8lkATPuGOfUi4eJ-qyEg804P4tw/s320/IMG_6618.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
At the finish I could tell that Kelley was jacked up on caffeine and ready to blister his final run. And he did. His final run kept us in third place. But he didn't know it. In fact we didn't know where we finished until they called our names at the awards.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4YWZUh8zjFXXdEtL_AyKfWQwFcdVsyqlMBhy1UZcUI3ap_oQ92v4RsSOo9LZ1RTvasoWUX9avd2oywV62QQhjgLXG6GIQEJfIrVkjip_zZVW-L0f0860AeB2K0nWYDVxTcfREfdzmYzx8/s1600/IMG_6614.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4YWZUh8zjFXXdEtL_AyKfWQwFcdVsyqlMBhy1UZcUI3ap_oQ92v4RsSOo9LZ1RTvasoWUX9avd2oywV62QQhjgLXG6GIQEJfIrVkjip_zZVW-L0f0860AeB2K0nWYDVxTcfREfdzmYzx8/s200/IMG_6614.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
Mean while Molly had finished her run and was on the bike. I prepared her Camelbak beforehand with her favorite blue Poweraide and her smart phone. With her phone in there Lisa and I could track her because we've installed the Parental Control Board on it. It's a great app that allows you to pinpoint where the phone is. It also alerts you if the phone leaves a certain zone that you set, like a 200 yard radius around her school. You can also control and/or block anything about the phone along with seeing who is calling or texting. Some people seem to use it for a more insidious reason like tracking wayward girl or boyfriends. But we just track Molly. Like good parents should.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6CGbS1NZ8Dr55gakzwfs5KVsVVrnvwHzEIFPJDlTUy3xD9hd8Pium3ieNcCORU53BKkcfWssoxJjzTr40rzHzLptFzo1XPgofl26vxjgXfu_Aa_KnBGMYj5u200KFcQAgr8oEDkpYybYk/s1600/IMG_6633.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6CGbS1NZ8Dr55gakzwfs5KVsVVrnvwHzEIFPJDlTUy3xD9hd8Pium3ieNcCORU53BKkcfWssoxJjzTr40rzHzLptFzo1XPgofl26vxjgXfu_Aa_KnBGMYj5u200KFcQAgr8oEDkpYybYk/s320/IMG_6633.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kelley Edwards lays it all out on his final run.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
So I whipped out my phone and after celebrating with Kelley at the finish I headed out to find my daughter and encourage her. I estimated where she would be and waited at the top of a climb. I rode with her for a while and then took a shortcut back to the finish.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxpCVifQKeCYgP1KQWafgdUi1GwJtrdrOb0dWZy1a8-lJ8zWQujdtGcuvstpzYEqPciGNNP2z-J-R-tHAAq' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwYozfZ5cC3nQf9U0p44NEUgln_9rCx6g0aNkq_I4fmYnm2Fdoka98ypVbUhE0krh5MUYr6HFv7GYIS2rCUGQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjios1mvWJnOgLpxckl-Std_Gm_sNZiU999jNwMKlmeRxQj6LAsL0MhetVWRgdixrKcT95odE6myafb-ErqpkyTn_TtQUGqTynvbxa_k0dJG2bpJQXvBmN3qQKaBZKVDYzy7lvC2MW5tCzl/s1600/IMG_6606.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjios1mvWJnOgLpxckl-Std_Gm_sNZiU999jNwMKlmeRxQj6LAsL0MhetVWRgdixrKcT95odE6myafb-ErqpkyTn_TtQUGqTynvbxa_k0dJG2bpJQXvBmN3qQKaBZKVDYzy7lvC2MW5tCzl/s200/IMG_6606.JPG" width="188" /></a>Molly only did the Novice Solo which is a 3.8 mile run and then the 11 mile mountain bike but for a skinny little 13 year old it was a lot. She trained for it and did really well by finishing 1st in her age group. My youngest Ellie was there cheering. They really support each other well. Ellie is big into Karate and had her first sparring meet a few weeks ago. She's really good even though fighting is not her nature, defending is and it helps her sparring.<br />
We all watched Molly finish and celebrated with Cliff Bars and banana's. There were doughnuts too. And cookies.<br />
And then we waited... <br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3vpgIRtn2RzsdNgCuOicCSOw_1J6KyBlGhyxaU1ebiL2SIZHnLjh-lWTF-aX0pzb5MOwTer_8E6dEoW8qOkmTBWfk5B0SmalNZsnO5cI61l4IZld74xIBXQXZCpyJSszCbesPv5svD81L/s1600/IMAG0037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3vpgIRtn2RzsdNgCuOicCSOw_1J6KyBlGhyxaU1ebiL2SIZHnLjh-lWTF-aX0pzb5MOwTer_8E6dEoW8qOkmTBWfk5B0SmalNZsnO5cI61l4IZld74xIBXQXZCpyJSszCbesPv5svD81L/s400/IMAG0037.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Molly Hayes, 1st Place in her age group (Under 30)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5m-YzJJuEVGuEkUKzxRb7i45K62BuXe7xBvqj14Rrg-VKkChZPp5MpRPYDm_m3FPpx8Aj6F4oq_dwTUZ5Q1z4qw4IIkfiK1v-pJGo5GrnQbihPV_W2NK1rP7vgUFYmpS7YAnwH8bUiryE/s1600/IMAG0040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="345" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5m-YzJJuEVGuEkUKzxRb7i45K62BuXe7xBvqj14Rrg-VKkChZPp5MpRPYDm_m3FPpx8Aj6F4oq_dwTUZ5Q1z4qw4IIkfiK1v-pJGo5GrnQbihPV_W2NK1rP7vgUFYmpS7YAnwH8bUiryE/s400/IMAG0040.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chad and Kelley, 3rd Place 2 Person Male</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Happiness and joy is how I would describe the scene after our names were called. Especially from Kelley who before the awards was apologizing to me for his bad performance. He was so jacked up he started trying to figure out how to do the next one with me at Heritage Park.<br />
<br />
Big Congrats to all the winners on the day! We were definitely not the only ones having a blast. Tim and his family put on top notch events that we're happy to be a part of.<br />
<br />
Next up for Molly is the Dirty Spokes trail run at Gainesville College. I'm heading to Conyers for the <a href="http://www.chainbusterracing.com/greengobbler.html">Chainbuster Green Gobler </a>race. Kelley is going to be running like a mad man from now until Heritage.<br />
Some of us have the crazy idea of doing a 5 Man team at the 12 Hour Zombie Race if anyone is interested??<br />
<br />
<u><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Cycling NEWS!</b></span></u><br />
<br />
Newly formed team announcement! Prima Tappa Cycling Club of North Georgia presents:<br />
<br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/>
<w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
<w:Word11KerningPairs/>
<w:CachedColBalance/>
</w:Compatibility>
<w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt;">
<b>SkyBlu</b> Smart Fuels, a division
of Mansfield Energy Group, has decided to be the main sponsor of our club and
racing team for the year. Their logo will be prominently displayed on our
2013 kits. Thank you to Mr. Michael Mansfield, Mr. Jack Haire and to
Prima Tappa Club members who worked behind the scenes on to bring this partnership
to fruition.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt;">
Full 2013 Sponsor List:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A+ Garbage
Service
Thank you Larry Waters!<br />
Berry
Motorsports
Thank you Todd Berry!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
EuroTruck
Importers
Thank you Sean Philyaw!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hayes Automotive Group Thank
you Chad Hayes!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Heard's Dirt
Works
Thank you Larry Waters!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Kali
Protectives
Thank you Joey Brown!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Kathy Anderson Trucking Thank
you Larry Waters!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Landmark
Logistics
Thank you Ray Mullins!<br />
Longstreet Clinic
Thank you Holmes Marchman!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SkyBlu Smart
Fuels
Thank you Jack Haire!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wayne Farms
LLC
Thank you Aaron Leach!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wells Fargo
Advisors
Thank you John Lilly!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wrenched
Thank you Nathan O'Neill!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt;">
Our 2013 kits have been
finalized! ETA is the 2nd or 3rd week of April. The complete kit
price is $95. $58 for the bibs and $37 for the jersey. We will be
contacting you shortly before they arrive to begin collecting payment. I
think that <a href="http://paypal.com/">paypal.com</a> may be the easiest way to
go, but of course we will take cash and checks.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt;">
The new kit design has been
posted on Facebook and please like us while you are there.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Prima-Tappa-Cycling/151461601680800">https://www.facebook.com/pages/Prima-Tappa-Cycling/151461601680800</a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">We are looking for volunteers to take on various
tasks within the club, so if you are good at something like Facebook, blogging,
helping create club structure / rules, etc., please let me know.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWWilYacdpWwWlPNDCe3HkL2Fuy6V8zr9AwMQR4PcaHnTC8od1OI1-uwgoTbhdeWtNRHZPwNUI47BeE5OskLo8_wK8AFWyrkp_R6yXT8WaSfZhGwlwiyDMvcfL7fESP2J99FQ61DC_Thck/s1600/Prima+kit+v2-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWWilYacdpWwWlPNDCe3HkL2Fuy6V8zr9AwMQR4PcaHnTC8od1OI1-uwgoTbhdeWtNRHZPwNUI47BeE5OskLo8_wK8AFWyrkp_R6yXT8WaSfZhGwlwiyDMvcfL7fESP2J99FQ61DC_Thck/s320/Prima+kit+v2-01.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This new club and team have several things in the works. A Junior Team coached by Nathan O'Neal. A competitive cycling/mountain biking team and a club team of recreational riders who love the sport of cycling and love to ride in North Georgia. For more information you can contact Sean Philyaw at primatappacycling@gmail.com<br />
<br />
Have a great weekend!<br />
<br />
Chad HayesChadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00306386622733315527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655692694530611569.post-75082210922561478862013-03-04T21:14:00.000-05:002013-03-06T19:06:57.043-05:002013 Southeast Bike ExpoI bought four tickets to this expo with the intention of taking my family. But when the week of the expo came the weather was polar. With wind and spitting overcast misty rain it must have been what it feels like in Seattle during the winter. So I invited some friends to go. Craig Tinsley and Alex Fuentes came over to my house and hitched a ride. Our goals? Clearly we wanted to see the new hotness from each vendor. And score some cool swag. And maybe even ride a demo dream bike. To make that possible we brought some riding clothes. It was going to be fun no matter what!<br />
<br />
When we got there they gave each of us a Camelbak Polar water bottle just for showing up. Craig was blown away by that. He loves those things.<br />
The first thing I did at the expo was enter the <a href="http://www.biketoursdirect.com/">Bike Tours Direct</a> giveaway. A trip to Italy! Oh yeah! The folks in the tent were really friendly and completely honest. I know this because I tried to bribe them and it didn't work.<br />
We started visiting each tent and talking to everyone. Some were ready, some were getting ready, some were still hung over and didn't know why they were there. I stopped at a tent where a guy was selling clothing and hats with bikes and gears on them. A particular brown hat caught my eye. I thought it would look good on my wife. But I decided to keep going in case something better came along.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN1sc-CkrgwxKxEwagovtoPxrUaOjeqqYnfWeCM1KQ8h8IYUde695Xp1abG1wlO0LbkodUHmiDtnnCMLYMinZcceaMsUJO7YdkqbhqTwKDaKPSMM2Fn0ZTBjlEITwX7a9nSqRXM0TP8qZ-/s1600/IMAG0434.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN1sc-CkrgwxKxEwagovtoPxrUaOjeqqYnfWeCM1KQ8h8IYUde695Xp1abG1wlO0LbkodUHmiDtnnCMLYMinZcceaMsUJO7YdkqbhqTwKDaKPSMM2Fn0ZTBjlEITwX7a9nSqRXM0TP8qZ-/s320/IMAG0434.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Once I found the guys again Craig had hijacked a bike with big fat tires. He rode it around for a while and laughed. Bikes are so fun. And this one also had shifting built into the hub.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYrlIU4zv2G5cDRWLMTlzgPo_DFAyxmDCfaXr3Z_gHihhf56oEncIUc_BaxWTFgACd-fIIwX3JuCVO3xRu0pZiW99hBOcxS9QUEnPJfKkco8_zlxl7jC7l1i7ZhtUvBi-CcAnQbejQrIP0/s1600/IMAG0438.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYrlIU4zv2G5cDRWLMTlzgPo_DFAyxmDCfaXr3Z_gHihhf56oEncIUc_BaxWTFgACd-fIIwX3JuCVO3xRu0pZiW99hBOcxS9QUEnPJfKkco8_zlxl7jC7l1i7ZhtUvBi-CcAnQbejQrIP0/s320/IMAG0438.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFGVZ6wUj03EwXFauaM0UeUou-WicMzwXnzt4VXCM9xfV6kbf0N5jLDW7ZZIQO8iTHq_E9dINTcd222AgZxbi0Iz4Ww3ocwMLbJntCQRSaYW__ZzFWFYjsIDzISVdac5aEP99q6ysnyLSS/s1600/IMAG0441.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFGVZ6wUj03EwXFauaM0UeUou-WicMzwXnzt4VXCM9xfV6kbf0N5jLDW7ZZIQO8iTHq_E9dINTcd222AgZxbi0Iz4Ww3ocwMLbJntCQRSaYW__ZzFWFYjsIDzISVdac5aEP99q6ysnyLSS/s320/IMAG0441.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Craig loves Continental</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We moved on to the Continental tent. These are Craig's favorite tires. He took time to thoroughly inspect each tire. He and the tire salesman swapped stories of undying love for them and I have to admit I was impressed. But my allegiance is to Maxxis for all the support they give to local racing in North Georgia.<br />
We left there and found the GIANT bikes tent and the sales rep there in. He showed us the new Propel road bike that GIANT says is faster than any road bike in the world. And they can prove it! Or it could be some genius marketing spin.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRVKJvrcHkH_TQa6tEPxq-A_wnKMGR9z15PVHlsoj2HwHwt9qHex2WbHftoP8l2ZRSUfKriHjZg0UPaGC-zf7aTqIcM90_VxriNphPx-rvhez_ZsrxHdeIifV02QFpeHPTxUR5iIMGkhDx/s1600/propel.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRVKJvrcHkH_TQa6tEPxq-A_wnKMGR9z15PVHlsoj2HwHwt9qHex2WbHftoP8l2ZRSUfKriHjZg0UPaGC-zf7aTqIcM90_VxriNphPx-rvhez_ZsrxHdeIifV02QFpeHPTxUR5iIMGkhDx/s320/propel.PNG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">GIANT Propel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBlZJiJbI3vLJ6DSslRe_qhOrvmY_rSsc13dXqpTzX0rtpR0GWzzKFor3f5DbzP3TZN2h2iqqKhS4E4StHwC9UYIKmi760pJaGiYG-0yzmJ_S5dXEsrAht-gM1MS6WOdZ8KuvVTsP6nTaR/s1600/IMAG0440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBlZJiJbI3vLJ6DSslRe_qhOrvmY_rSsc13dXqpTzX0rtpR0GWzzKFor3f5DbzP3TZN2h2iqqKhS4E4StHwC9UYIKmi760pJaGiYG-0yzmJ_S5dXEsrAht-gM1MS6WOdZ8KuvVTsP6nTaR/s320/IMAG0440.jpg" width="320" /></a>But I was more interested in the GIANT XTC Carbon hard tail 29er. I had my eye on test riding the Large with SRAM gearing. But we wanted to check everything else out and come back.<br />
Oh and if you're wondering about the twisted handle bar... that's just in case someone tries to steal it. Imagine trying to bolt out of the expo with the handlebar like that.<br />
They make you surrender your drivers license when you test ride a bike. Just FYI.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7UBTJmdcCy2zGdLuik9HT_b94ZBCpDpSvafiiGxJiGsqA6LsWduRKEfwJcrtFg4a6dEg4gu9vRhYnLnbz6ldnpdrdvTK55BcV796rWqT0ii-Jv7KH8WcRIuFcqkjNEmdwwaNrlWcMl7HQ/s1600/myqride.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7UBTJmdcCy2zGdLuik9HT_b94ZBCpDpSvafiiGxJiGsqA6LsWduRKEfwJcrtFg4a6dEg4gu9vRhYnLnbz6ldnpdrdvTK55BcV796rWqT0ii-Jv7KH8WcRIuFcqkjNEmdwwaNrlWcMl7HQ/s320/myqride.jpg" width="320" /></a>Then I met Warren Schimizzi and his wife. They own a company called <b><a href="http://www.myqride.com/">QRide</a></b>. It's an advanced emergency ID for riders. You sign up on a website and input all the information you want emergency personnel to know. You receive two highly reflective and very sticky stickers that they recommend you place on your helmet. The QR code on the sticker can be scanned by a smart phone which takes the user to your emergency page. Unlike the RoadID I tend to always forget at home, this would be a no brainer. And instead of calling the number on the bracelet or trying to navigate a website this QR code takes you to the page in a matter of seconds. I liked it so much I got one for myself. And I liked the Schimizzi's too.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy8phmTTN1a51ASu29zNo4lNUmN_V1SOKDquneXBYGeqP7Mjy3-eJavNFz0WSpDf5cc9Zp4SiPgceZKpCxnm6plnZQr_spo4GZjYhaGT3SnwVs3jpps1FwIRCS3PoVXo89TpKQGG21Nt4M/s1600/IMAG0486.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy8phmTTN1a51ASu29zNo4lNUmN_V1SOKDquneXBYGeqP7Mjy3-eJavNFz0WSpDf5cc9Zp4SiPgceZKpCxnm6plnZQr_spo4GZjYhaGT3SnwVs3jpps1FwIRCS3PoVXo89TpKQGG21Nt4M/s200/IMAG0486.jpg" width="112" /></a>We moved on to my favorite glasses company <a href="http://www.tifosioptics.com/">TIFOSI</a>. I've been wearing their glasses for years. I have a pair of Tyrants and some polarized Jets and my wife loves the DEA style. I went through an Oakley phase a few years ago and learned my lesson. Tifosi have always been quality and worth the money. Now with polarized lenses I can buy two sets for what I used to spend on one. Another no brainer.<br />
<br />
There were several surprise lubes at the expo. Let me explain. Did you know that <a href="http://www.wd40bike.com/">WD-40</a> has a bike lube specific line of stuff? Me neither. What interested me most was the Frame Protectant. So I got some and plan to try it on my carbon GIANT TCR. I'll let you know how it works.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSRIpFFhytp6JJsCGdzGGiAmADFy7tJqPGJpxof4H8NggJnzPWehsiEUtY1T9tJz-c3ievX2wbETaeMGxoqcfRynpAyv_JOAfFo1JoEPpNPO1-lrdARje2DoTjvhWDWIuaHq4ob5UVTNBm/s1600/IMAG0443.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="152" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSRIpFFhytp6JJsCGdzGGiAmADFy7tJqPGJpxof4H8NggJnzPWehsiEUtY1T9tJz-c3ievX2wbETaeMGxoqcfRynpAyv_JOAfFo1JoEPpNPO1-lrdARje2DoTjvhWDWIuaHq4ob5UVTNBm/s200/IMAG0443.jpg" width="200" /></a>Then there was <a href="http://skanunu.com/">Skanunu MotorLine</a>. This guy really made me smile. His RV was straight out of National Lampoons. He was very passionate about his chain lube. Or should I say his Earth Safe Chain Degreaser Protectant Lube. We stood and listened to his presentation and then he offered to clean our chains with it if we brought our bikes over. I could kick myself for forgetting to. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ2h14YXJ0zsF9QJYt4XD5zpfgSpJxj1p44buVvTWDilwPeWyhYen2SlPRgiDyEdmubKUbM-3GiQgxqgGWiYFhfOi2BeSSrOv5EcrpZAd6sfE75P7M3juxxf_fWYozXpsGCsPJ5rj1uCQK/s1600/IMAG0442.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ2h14YXJ0zsF9QJYt4XD5zpfgSpJxj1p44buVvTWDilwPeWyhYen2SlPRgiDyEdmubKUbM-3GiQgxqgGWiYFhfOi2BeSSrOv5EcrpZAd6sfE75P7M3juxxf_fWYozXpsGCsPJ5rj1uCQK/s400/IMAG0442.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic6VlX05aTQyNZaW1VM0CrSJF20RFGh0udrM4_-D_EdEurONdg947li5w8r2A5B2Eaw_huZGGdWc6iewiGPJ3l2Y1IOIY4FwLIVDUIhk_8qJHL6WbcClhyphenhyphenBzTjZGkRmE7dPtx5LWZFoMuK/s1600/IMAG0444.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic6VlX05aTQyNZaW1VM0CrSJF20RFGh0udrM4_-D_EdEurONdg947li5w8r2A5B2Eaw_huZGGdWc6iewiGPJ3l2Y1IOIY4FwLIVDUIhk_8qJHL6WbcClhyphenhyphenBzTjZGkRmE7dPtx5LWZFoMuK/s200/IMAG0444.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CamelBak HAWG</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We visited the <a href="http://www.camelbak.com/">Camelbak</a> tent where he showed us the latest super cool stuff from them. I have three Camelbaks hanging in my basement. My favorite is the HAWG which is the one he showed us. The new one has these really cool vent things that keep your back cool. And it looks cool too. He also had the GoPro video cameras to demo and offered to let us try them out as well.<br />
<br />
KMC Chains was interesting. Not sure I want a colored chain but if your into some serious bling they had all you could handle.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1jIrNSFCiKDrxuUEA5Sr5Sz6-nkjt5aGeJNITnGxflucy53Y4-bhY7UHoU1EZmuktgOKDPUk7f2FJo4EM8nTLog7INmfkbQ_ivBNKrJpn5xNw0Brw3CHh7ICor07y2shk5jwt3L6gptYn/s1600/IMAG0446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1jIrNSFCiKDrxuUEA5Sr5Sz6-nkjt5aGeJNITnGxflucy53Y4-bhY7UHoU1EZmuktgOKDPUk7f2FJo4EM8nTLog7INmfkbQ_ivBNKrJpn5xNw0Brw3CHh7ICor07y2shk5jwt3L6gptYn/s320/IMAG0446.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
We got to meet the Owner and Builder from <a href="http://cyscocycles.com/">Cysco Cycles</a>, Richie Moore. He has some of his custom Ti work on display that was really cool. He uses all the latest industry technology like BB30, electronic shifting, 12 mm thru-axles. I tested a Ti road bike he created with disc brakes and DI2.<br />
I was so enamored I didn't take a single picture. But I did take one of the bamboo bikes?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMMTqrTV02iEm1bVYdufHJ6xDbM5g9oqAU35y4Ct-hCm4hUB_GiWlRN5XSMtl57RgyUh-ZfUh7N0vAAxJThe0SQC_mP_n-aX5qqpgHWj7YSfok8XfwKOc2kgpcgQUEiNyhixWYa18C4MEF/s1600/IMAG0447.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMMTqrTV02iEm1bVYdufHJ6xDbM5g9oqAU35y4Ct-hCm4hUB_GiWlRN5XSMtl57RgyUh-ZfUh7N0vAAxJThe0SQC_mP_n-aX5qqpgHWj7YSfok8XfwKOc2kgpcgQUEiNyhixWYa18C4MEF/s320/IMAG0447.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bamboo Bikes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We talked to others like the <a href="http://bikeathens.com/">Bike Athens</a> people. They were great. I love Athens so it wasn't hard to impress me. They have a great map of the city which highlights each road and it's vehicle traffic.<br />
<br />
And then it happened. We made our way back around to the GIANT tent so I could ride the XTC carbon mountain bike of my dreams. The bike that will slice through single track like hot butter. The bike that I want to ride more than any other bike at the expo was under the undeserving butt of Dustin Mealor! He stole my bike! Stole it! And I called him my friend!<br />
<br />
But I'm not bitter. I moved on to the Niner tent. Where I could find a ride on par with the bike stolen from me. Only to find that there were no Larges left there either. We had waited too long. The good $5,000 plus bikes were gone. And who wants to ride an old 3,000 dollar bike... right?<br />
<br />
Anyway, we moved on to the <a href="http://www.seasucker.com/">SeaSucker</a> exhibition. I first saw these things in Athens at Twilight and loved them. They're kind of expensive and I wasn't sure about them then but now I've seen all the cool iterations they've come up with and I may try them. At first you think they won't stay put but the design is great. A little indicator on the side of each one tells you if your loosing any pressure. If so you just pump them up a little. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjijBqKZE9Lv53_gENuo_B-w35c_TbsA8gpszqdbQohMyK-djw3_Ax3_eDp2DvyUq4ssCUfXWmMydwr2fW3BM76B3DsGHY8nwoVI2duhJnIogga9X6J5WtpI47efGpN1T54iuT6XRECher3/s1600/IMAG0448.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjijBqKZE9Lv53_gENuo_B-w35c_TbsA8gpszqdbQohMyK-djw3_Ax3_eDp2DvyUq4ssCUfXWmMydwr2fW3BM76B3DsGHY8nwoVI2duhJnIogga9X6J5WtpI47efGpN1T54iuT6XRECher3/s400/IMAG0448.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SeaSucker has a great product.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After that we checked out the SRAM tent where I took a look at the new XX1 single chainring crank and gearing. This new 11 speed mountain bike group has my attention because it's design keeps the chain on without the need for a chain guide. And I got a cool SRAM hat.<br />
<br />
After that we took our bags of swag and headed over to <a href="http://www.ctownbikes.com/">C-Town Bikes</a>. I've wanted to get over there for a long time. They sponsor nearly all the races in North Georgia and I like to give back. But like a dork I didn't take any photos so you'll just have to use my link if you want to see the shop. Nice place with great people inside to help. I bought some wool gloves.<br />
<br />
After that we headed home with some Zaxby's. We had a lot of fun and met some great bike people. I will definitely be going back next year. But the first thing we're doing is ride. I won't be taken advantage of again.<br />
<br />
Next up is the <a href="http://www.dirtyspokes.com/duathlon/">Dirty Spokes Duathlon</a> at Fort Yargo in Winder, Georgia. I'm racing with my friend Kelley Edwards and my daughter Molly is racing solo. Should be a great time.<br />
<br />
Others are heading to the <a href="https://www.bikereg.com/Net/18553">Historic Brooks</a> races in Brooks, Georgia. Wish I could guys! Go get'em!<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading!<br />
<br />
Chad Hayes<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00306386622733315527noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655692694530611569.post-52909411933133214632013-02-21T16:53:00.000-05:002013-02-21T16:53:35.339-05:002013 Chainbuster Tribble Mill (Taco Stand Classic)And so it begins. Another season of mountain bike racing in North Georgia.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj79PqYEQtyLsVmA1SYtPv6BQzZVqhalu99d6EFVnOvVQdPxtuvs2TtuAbcZYamrjc-B7sfIR5yEXB31afJc-WD_uEg2SIHqAznveDQp3AJjEDxb5m2HU2kj26yUO5rfm3UTmH-aTH359M-/s1600/IMAG0394.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="142" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj79PqYEQtyLsVmA1SYtPv6BQzZVqhalu99d6EFVnOvVQdPxtuvs2TtuAbcZYamrjc-B7sfIR5yEXB31afJc-WD_uEg2SIHqAznveDQp3AJjEDxb5m2HU2kj26yUO5rfm3UTmH-aTH359M-/s320/IMAG0394.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
So many great races to do and I can't wait to do them with friends. Not to mention the atmosphere that most mountain bikers bring to the races. I say most riders because unfortunately there were some out there that don't know how to pass a slower rider and still be courteous. Some were even rude to the women! So before I tell you about the great things that happened at this race I thought I'd start with a little lesson in mountain bike racing etiquette. The topic for today is "How to pass a slower rider in single track trail."<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsNhqJ2bJBymG6A8-rUBsKD9V7IQKHmhO1ZH2To_CoEVeGmGaykPXn2B63siWr5tpwgqNBcQ4utoF7qFGE4782CfK2nkX4CSdsKY6aljdno0W9f-7GTKet4lP3_B2aXgPDVoIPnkpE__5y/s1600/David+Shabat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsNhqJ2bJBymG6A8-rUBsKD9V7IQKHmhO1ZH2To_CoEVeGmGaykPXn2B63siWr5tpwgqNBcQ4utoF7qFGE4782CfK2nkX4CSdsKY6aljdno0W9f-7GTKet4lP3_B2aXgPDVoIPnkpE__5y/s320/David+Shabat.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">David Shabat is Smooth and Fast!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It's pretty simple. If you are gaining on a rider, then you must be faster, so logic dictates that you will eventually catch this person and need to pass them. You should assume the rider doesn't know this because God only put eyes in the front of our skulls and your heavy breathing may not be as loud as their own. For these reasons you should call out to the rider as you approach. I like to yell "<b>Rider Back!</b>" It let's them know you are there and wish to pass. I personally like to add the words "<b>When you can!</b>" because it takes the pressure off the slower rider and they make fewer mistakes. But you can say what you want... it's your race to loose. Now what normally happens next is the slower rider finds a nice wide part of the trail and moves over to let you pass. I always say "Thank You!" And that is how to safely pass a slower rider. <br />
I will admit that some riders don't work with you on this because they've been slighted at some point during the race and are trying to prove a point... no matter how courteous you are. Ultimately though the courtesy is contagious and there should be no reason to channel your inner Rodney King.<br />
<br />
I usually don't care to belabor this issue because it will always exist in a race with hundreds of people on the trails. I guess when the ladies start thanking me for not being a jerk I decided to bring it up.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyMqRTkQ-6asQ7xj7iJVLucxwHUdySltltv0dgVJo4RagdTk57X1VBBoV4K78t6cOyg1KzNvKvEuFXqMDpsEWXoCl-9SbwQDrVBywQCvoirGIKjpy_9hQwXPk9fpwJ_hBLEl0bt9flj06R/s1600/Chainbuster+Kids+Race.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyMqRTkQ-6asQ7xj7iJVLucxwHUdySltltv0dgVJo4RagdTk57X1VBBoV4K78t6cOyg1KzNvKvEuFXqMDpsEWXoCl-9SbwQDrVBywQCvoirGIKjpy_9hQwXPk9fpwJ_hBLEl0bt9flj06R/s320/Chainbuster+Kids+Race.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The kids race was fun to watch.<br />
The kids always work too hard at the start and puke at the end. It's funny to watch their faces immediately after completing the race. Everyone stands around cheering and congratulating them but all they want is oxygen. The medal they get is meaningless at that time but as you can see they quickly recover and love life once more. A scenario that never changes no matter how old you get.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjedXk5KUaNlwJibJ1MVqcwgpRwbw6WXm0quDKZLh5MBw5okNkb9Kt_4oVTd8Cue54OrmIZIemL14IZBv5yyuKCGW3C9gZMqzgL_pxFUWs-dUljg8tiTLpMWyR8xCsKTXI5AOMODS9XNeNV/s1600/Trace+at+the+start.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjedXk5KUaNlwJibJ1MVqcwgpRwbw6WXm0quDKZLh5MBw5okNkb9Kt_4oVTd8Cue54OrmIZIemL14IZBv5yyuKCGW3C9gZMqzgL_pxFUWs-dUljg8tiTLpMWyR8xCsKTXI5AOMODS9XNeNV/s320/Trace+at+the+start.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Then it was time to start. I've started a lot. It's intense and exciting and I like it! But this time I wanted to film it so I asked Trace to start. He doesn't like it. And David refused to do it. But to Trace's credit he made it happen. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzlXbbapWNwLBqDhPNpdAON_TUgaIY9XmCy-BDCswGqPi2S9LQSMbI5J6v7sAe6JHaJeioFKVpyp6fFlfksSQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJjNkoIiTOomZYu39EQTrSJq9pyGpBJ4wIzmNs0zxvhLsx9MYS6VsSBIB1-4NRty7hL9s2kEdsEAyt6cT38kv9Oc6hYIMMfBv-Ptdzb5b6iOr7RLhbss0IJkdtGsRVhwSbIjWtcETTYQl8/s1600/Trace+Nabors+hits+Taco+Stand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJjNkoIiTOomZYu39EQTrSJq9pyGpBJ4wIzmNs0zxvhLsx9MYS6VsSBIB1-4NRty7hL9s2kEdsEAyt6cT38kv9Oc6hYIMMfBv-Ptdzb5b6iOr7RLhbss0IJkdtGsRVhwSbIjWtcETTYQl8/s320/Trace+Nabors+hits+Taco+Stand.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trace Nabors leaps from the Taco Stand!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: small;">We watched as <span style="font-size: small;">a <span style="font-size: small;">hundred riders vied for the entrance to the single track first. <span style="font-size: small;">They had to race ac<span style="font-size: small;">ross the small field and then down another rolling field <span style="font-size: small;">into the tr<span style="font-size: small;">ail. <span style="font-size: small;">The co<span style="font-size: small;">urse was different tha<span style="font-size: small;">n any other time we've raced <span style="font-size: small;">at Tribble Mill. The Chainbuster crew did a great job of m<span style="font-size: small;">ixing <span style="font-size: small;">it up so that we could shoot f<span style="font-size: small;">rom the T<span style="font-size: small;">aco Stand once more! Based on the pictures <span style="font-size: small;">Trace evidently lept better than <span style="font-size: small;">any of us did all <span style="font-size: small;">day. He came through and put us out front from the start. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCb_dvVWDoGfw2pSbQTjCVlY9f06vDWqmY7P6xsM-t5aVUlN9KIKIc12YulTm6doovzw3oQaGe0b0KSceWEpzkKaUIRfqTOoUlCxh3IN6tHH8-lwG9JVnifhDA7okASVdPsi40kCWoBqEC/s1600/IMAG0375.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCb_dvVWDoGfw2pSbQTjCVlY9f06vDWqmY7P6xsM-t5aVUlN9KIKIc12YulTm6doovzw3oQaGe0b0KSceWEpzkKaUIRfqTOoUlCxh3IN6tHH8-lwG9JVnifhDA7okASVdPsi40kCWoBqEC/s320/IMAG0375.jpg" width="167" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I <span style="font-size: small;">took the <span style="font-size: small;">timing chip and headed out for my first lap<span style="font-size: small;"> in the cold<span style="font-size: small;">, windy weather. If I didn't me<span style="font-size: small;">ntion it before the temperature s<span style="font-size: small;">tarted ou<span style="font-size: small;">t in the 30's and stayed there while the wind picked up. Gus<span style="font-size: small;">ts up to 40 <span style="font-size: small;">MPH. One such gust <span style="font-size: small;">ripped our neighbors tent right up <span style="font-size: small;">like a parachute and scattered thei<span style="font-size: small;">r stuff all ove<span style="font-size: small;">r the place.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> It was a crazy scene as the race went on.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I tried to stay smooth and fast through the pine st<span style="font-size: small;">raw ladden si<span style="font-size: small;">ngle track. Th<span style="font-size: small;">e evidence of bad decisions was <span style="font-size: small;">in every corner. Piles of straw followed by a long <span style="font-size: small;">thin t<span style="font-size: small;">rench leading off the trail. The red ribbon <span style="font-size: small;">put up to keep us on course was <span style="font-size: small;">too high and confused me. I assume it was that high <span style="font-size: small;">for a reason but the only one I could think of was to keep <span style="font-size: small;">wayward riders from slicing through it. Or maybe i<span style="font-size: small;">t was so it could be seen long before you reached the intersection.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I finally worked my way to the best part of the day... The T<span style="font-size: small;">aco Stand! This is probably not any different tha<span style="font-size: small;">n any other large ditch but it's the only one at Tribble Mill and it's at the end of <span style="font-size: small;">the loop. Jumping out of it fills you will some needed adrenaline for the last two miles.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOPf0y2sRUmQY8pa4JvpvfqZUg52ZIYgHvVHnmdmPqa4L1KiKXo3BlzUVdqiWoiZeEjNkH4xi107hU3MAqP813fI3kTj3KYn-KaFuiw36oXVxqPYisFgIf2O2N9LEg0Uhqf3cCyVNwOKC6/s1600/Chad+Hayes+hits+Taco+Stand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOPf0y2sRUmQY8pa4JvpvfqZUg52ZIYgHvVHnmdmPqa4L1KiKXo3BlzUVdqiWoiZeEjNkH4xi107hU3MAqP813fI3kTj3KYn-KaFuiw36oXVxqPYisFgIf2O2N9LEg0Uhqf3cCyVNwOKC6/s640/Chad+Hayes+hits+Taco+Stand.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Taco Stand face leaves something to be desired.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">So I celebrated in the only w<span style="font-size: small;">ay I could think of... I made a stupid <span style="font-size: small;">face at the camera.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I handed off to David and <span style="font-size: small;">felt really good. And warm. But after about 10 minutes <span style="font-size: small;">it all change<span style="font-size: small;">d<span style="font-size: small;">. <span style="font-size: small;">I was <span style="font-size: small;">chilled to my bones by the wind</span>. <span style="font-size: small;">So I headed up to the <span style="font-size: small;">Start/Finish to check ou<span style="font-size: small;">t where we were in the race and try to warm up. It was then that I learned th<span style="font-size: small;">at for the<span style="font-size: small;"> first time in the series there were two 3 Person Male Categories. We <span style="font-size: small;">had signed up for the <a href="http://www.chainbusterracing.com/results/TacoStandClassicTeam2013.html">Just Having Fun</a> one instead of the new <span style="font-size: small;">competitive 3 man category<span style="font-size: small;">. After consulting with Kenny, the race director, <span style="font-size: small;">he decided we should stay put because the race was half over and it's not fair for the other category to <span style="font-size: small;">not know who<span style="font-size: small;"> they are racing ag<span style="font-size: small;">ainst. </span></span></span>So that's what we did.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I stood around and watched <span style="font-size: small;">David finish and hand off to Trace.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzKC7TBrQ7aK6KSmkM3sdKbzLfCKRXqu9xX0t9v2ELdl7iznDpAj5MEz-dXFoiLOfvWpNjTuJCUdmWRHgFaAg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">As fate would have it (and some expert planning) I only had to <span style="font-size: small;">do two laps. There si<span style="font-size: small;">mply wasn't enough<span style="font-size: small;"> time for me to do a third. Darn it all!<span style="font-size: small;"> So I took the tent down before the wind did it for me and sa<span style="font-size: small;">t in the car with David. Man was it cold!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFLL8zXtEqwQwpvT_q0hPCm9WEvUQpYpZZpmo7FtAodbSbzxF1NGdajJgTdH-W35OJmJgJ5uWmiT3mQ5WgWiBrWSRl_jaxkV8qBWLwjsRxYBRrMSm8FhpohE1FxAwsDuOWmQHK_ewTP66l/s1600/IMAG0416.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFLL8zXtEqwQwpvT_q0hPCm9WEvUQpYpZZpmo7FtAodbSbzxF1NGdajJgTdH-W35OJmJgJ5uWmiT3mQ5WgWiBrWSRl_jaxkV8qBWLwjsRxYBRrMSm8FhpohE1FxAwsDuOWmQHK_ewTP66l/s320/IMAG0416.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></span></span> </span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> </span></span> </span></span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> Trace <span style="font-size: small;">made it back and completed our 7<span style="font-size: small;">th lap. Securing our victory no matter which <span style="font-size: small;">cate<span style="font-size: small;">gory we had been in.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">He looked beat. The <span style="font-size: small;">cra<span style="font-size: small;">zy ever<span style="font-size: small;"> chan<span style="font-size: small;">ging weather made clothing choice a tricky thing. Trace <span style="font-size: small;">was drinking his usual concoction of Hammer Nutritional<span style="font-size: small;">; <span style="font-size: small;">1 bottle (1<span style="font-size: small;"> s<span style="font-size: small;">coop<span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-size: small;">Perpetu<span style="font-size: small;">em, 1 scoop Heed), and two e<span style="font-size: small;">l<span style="font-size: small;">ectrolytes per hour.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBpsVibSIcO2lH_Z8w6odZy7IH6ZeuEMMJntlK6BlVwVR71yvraHWpvYvbJEGfGkz-ur86Jp_LPo7EzqNlRRm0D_U_JHydG1QrOgMgJVvc7Si8YWiO5l6ARHO5uSChOj9X8GbhtKgRtGQx/s1600/The+Nabors+Family.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBpsVibSIcO2lH_Z8w6odZy7IH6ZeuEMMJntlK6BlVwVR71yvraHWpvYvbJEGfGkz-ur86Jp_LPo7EzqNlRRm0D_U_JHydG1QrOgMgJVvc7Si8YWiO5l6ARHO5uSChOj9X8GbhtKgRtGQx/s400/The+Nabors+Family.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Nabors Family are happy as can be!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">We all <span style="font-size: small;">have awesome and highly supportive families. They must be to brave the cold and wind <span style="font-size: small;">in support of Daddy. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyEszsujIfHoVZVrFTKLht4nBtfYwYi84dSA871YJC-W66WOGSicllMYnLgU9g6Kg5bDKsSQaM8mpeQ7-ZrKYH-2mSW2MAtfV4WSZEwHslwX25qetRWrcsmi2rshr3CrTK1IYx1fzxJB3e/s1600/Scar+are+Tatoos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyEszsujIfHoVZVrFTKLht4nBtfYwYi84dSA871YJC-W66WOGSicllMYnLgU9g6Kg5bDKsSQaM8mpeQ7-ZrKYH-2mSW2MAtfV4WSZEwHslwX25qetRWrcsmi2rshr3CrTK1IYx1fzxJB3e/s200/Scar+are+Tatoos.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Our efforts were not in vain. <span style="font-size: small;">We and many others were winners at the end of the 6 hours race. <span style="font-size: small;">The day was <span style="font-size: small;">really fun<span style="font-size: small;"> and <span style="font-size: small;">we didn't rec<span style="font-size: small;">eive any injur<span style="font-size: small;">ies we couldn't deal with. <span style="font-size: small;">And even if we did <span style="font-size: small;">injure our<span style="font-size: small;">selves badly i<span style="font-size: small;">t's ok because... Scars are Tatoos with better Stories.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTiOJI7scXF1_s2x727EGRr7BrOmq2efR773IY_S7FLWjdeEytzV4vnojnerQbFK6xHBeta_TLJXLJdUY36yIUlS2hFBhN45N8-tEi_zAp2SH7JQLWzlRTCW4mUYt27wYLwpokGdnBVYcR/s1600/3+Male+JHF+Podium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTiOJI7scXF1_s2x727EGRr7BrOmq2efR773IY_S7FLWjdeEytzV4vnojnerQbFK6xHBeta_TLJXLJdUY36yIUlS2hFBhN45N8-tEi_zAp2SH7JQLWzlRTCW4mUYt27wYLwpokGdnBVYcR/s320/3+Male+JHF+Podium.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipa6lVx-jfhNou-Q6cwnpBoanE8uCbmi5w36xu9IHSMJIgwczqwt1bf5qImoMXKKkjUtMr3wuQ-2oA3PlzbWt_-yEXviR6f4d1ZkrIT0TEJLRexaWvf0r8E8AKaicl-dpMGl58wHra0YoD/s1600/ChainbusterPodium_20130216.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipa6lVx-jfhNou-Q6cwnpBoanE8uCbmi5w36xu9IHSMJIgwczqwt1bf5qImoMXKKkjUtMr3wuQ-2oA3PlzbWt_-yEXviR6f4d1ZkrIT0TEJLRexaWvf0r8E8AKaicl-dpMGl58wHra0YoD/s320/ChainbusterPodium_20130216.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Our friends Dustin Mealor and Todd Fisher won the 2 Person Male<span style="font-size: small;"> Category thanks to Dustin's highly melodramatic sufferfest show. I'm telling you that nobody looks to be sufferi<span style="font-size: small;">ng as much as Dustin<span style="font-size: small;">. 100% maximum effort all the time. I like him.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuA6U8Kd1P8ebUbFfUbjk-OEqZPqt7x-3kndqq6TtCoprFJiOIzmD_sHNChY5y7ycbe6eYGDZaIgVj8KEzn0qh2qco7Zyw9cOTtFqYMz9CWgckNRC9qqUTHtCDHJgX8nrLd3l-6tghOhFZ/s1600/Two+Man+Podium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuA6U8Kd1P8ebUbFfUbjk-OEqZPqt7x-3kndqq6TtCoprFJiOIzmD_sHNChY5y7ycbe6eYGDZaIgVj8KEzn0qh2qco7Zyw9cOTtFqYMz9CWgckNRC9qqUTHtCDHJgX8nrLd3l-6tghOhFZ/s320/Two+Man+Podium.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">My first race of the season <span style="font-size: small;">was in the books. Not my usual killer effort but i<span style="font-size: small;">t'll do to get me going again. The next Chainbuster race will be at the Georgia Intl Horse Park in Conyers. In<span style="font-size: small;"> fact I'll be there this Saturday at the Southeast Bike EXPO. <span style="font-size: small;">It <span style="font-size: small;">will be raining but who cares right?</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Till next time...</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Chad Hayes </span> </span></span></span></span></span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00306386622733315527noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655692694530611569.post-84493139726898594762013-02-12T16:31:00.001-05:002013-02-12T16:31:13.497-05:002013 World Cyclo Cross Championships<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEyQl9plvwfbr5Pan4VQmIXrCXpqYFIrTqcE1F0OuhUHT0mzK_qxe5TmZTdyas7c_gzH8RCTShZwDKtibCkU1JPz8GgJGcvBqWMp68-7szmqTMGern_w-F5Sx5jt7I5xZJRM-PigSxREc/s1600/Champlogo.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="57" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEyQl9plvwfbr5Pan4VQmIXrCXpqYFIrTqcE1F0OuhUHT0mzK_qxe5TmZTdyas7c_gzH8RCTShZwDKtibCkU1JPz8GgJGcvBqWMp68-7szmqTMGern_w-F5Sx5jt7I5xZJRM-PigSxREc/s400/Champlogo.PNG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I've been following Cyclo-Cross closely this season for several reasons. First because I bought a cyclo-cross bike and wanted to learn how to ride it. Second I knew the World Championships were coming to the U.S. this year. And third... Cross is getting BIG! I see new races popping up all around Georgia these days and they look like a ton of fun!<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Cy9U-aL_D7_pQr-XcRekGi5NGeELvXeQ1wKlhVPllDQqUwTpsCtRBPGztySrUKxYw4drLebuN9fsLO4H4kIGARLXNcbZHD08uCl3Lclu6Gw7R0fbBffWEiM6nppZtmzNWsgoWqAKRCg/s1600/state+champ.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Cy9U-aL_D7_pQr-XcRekGi5NGeELvXeQ1wKlhVPllDQqUwTpsCtRBPGztySrUKxYw4drLebuN9fsLO4H4kIGARLXNcbZHD08uCl3Lclu6Gw7R0fbBffWEiM6nppZtmzNWsgoWqAKRCg/s320/state+champ.jpg" width="211" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shay Lindner</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
For those of you who don't know what Cyclo-Cross is let me tell you this way; Take your road bike and put thin knobby tires on it. Now race it through grass, dirt and mud. Oh and there might be some stairs or 2 foot tall barriers in your way so you'll have to hop off the bike and carry it. All this is done on a circuit loop small enough to allow the fans to be intimately involved in your suffering. A race lasts about an hour or less so think of it like an off road criterium. Accept in these races there's no benefit from drafting. And it's not like a mountain bike race because the effort involves more than just riding skill. You need running skills too.<br />
What I've learned is that being smooth with your transitions on and off the bike are a key. It takes practice. Otherwise you'll find yourself red lining early and never get recovered.<br />
I would love to see some Cross races up here in North Georgia around Hall County. I think we have many places to do it. Maybe I'll get that ball rolling this year. Hmmm.<br />
<br />
<br />
My good friend Michel Van Musschenbroek took his son to the 2013 World Cyclo Cross Championships held this year in the United States. That's a big deal because the "World" usually goes to Europe for any cycling championships. That's just the way it is. America's love Football and Baseball... Europeans love Soccer and Cycling. So when he told me he was going I told him he had to write a story for my blog. That's just the way it is. And without further adieu I present to you...<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">2013 World Cyclo Cro<span style="font-size: large;">ss Championships</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">by Michel Van Musschenbroek</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/>
<w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
<w:Word11KerningPairs/>
<w:CachedColBalance/>
</w:Compatibility>
<w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Louisville KY, was the site for the 2013 World Cyclo Cross
Championships and not knowing if I would ever have a chance to see them again,
I seized the opportunity and bought tickets for the Saturday events for me and
my son Gabriel.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We left on the Friday so we could try and see the
presentation of the riders ceremony for the press. That however was cancelled, because the Ohio
River was rising so fast from the recent storms, there was a fear that the
event would be washed out if run on Sunday, so all events were to be run on
Saturday. No way to say it but wow! All four events; Juniors, U23, Elite Women
and Elite Men on one day. Our tickets were
good as they were and we did not have to pay more!</span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">So, with the presentation ceremony cancelled we
thought we would still drive down to see the area and scope it out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Interestingly, the Worlds Masters were run on
Friday and we arrived just in time to see the break down of the event.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did not see any of the action, but we did get
to see and talk to some riders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They
were all very friendly guys from Boulder, CO. asking Gabriel all sorts of
questions about his interest<span style="font-size: small;">.</span> <span style="font-size: small;">W</span>hen we asked them how they did<span style="font-size: small;"> we found out</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <span style="font-size: small;">w</span></span>e<span style="font-size: small;"> </span>were talking to the bronze medallist and
fifth place finisher!!</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj0Ore5H-IMvdQAbCgSm2RX5myfsP_RAzFkGXxL5AtjyiRRXw1u1H7cPHq7MTKFeKIsWqYtd_qT8bWN4D9P3mCBpWSHjs1uwZbQ4HeoWLhw21cTY5w3Q7gtItwY1jvAbI7FWFtYsdc7ic/s1600/smile.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj0Ore5H-IMvdQAbCgSm2RX5myfsP_RAzFkGXxL5AtjyiRRXw1u1H7cPHq7MTKFeKIsWqYtd_qT8bWN4D9P3mCBpWSHjs1uwZbQ4HeoWLhw21cTY5w3Q7gtItwY1jvAbI7FWFtYsdc7ic/s320/smile.PNG" width="251" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/>
<w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
<w:Word11KerningPairs/>
<w:CachedColBalance/>
</w:Compatibility>
<w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 8.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">Bronze
medallist Peter Webber on the left, Dwight Brandon (3x National Champion) on
the right.)</span><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
</style>
<![endif]--></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/>
<w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
<w:Word11KerningPairs/>
<w:CachedColBalance/>
</w:Compatibility>
<w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dwight reached in to his bag and pulled out a beanie for the
National Championships next year in Boulder and gave it to Gabriel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They were all part of a team and they have a
very informational website<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="http://www.mudandcowbells.com/">http://www.mudandcowbells.com/</a></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
</span></span></span></span></span>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They told us they had over 50 riders from the ages 10 – 18
that ride CycloCross.</span></span></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Back in our hotel prepar<span style="font-size: small;">ing</span> for the day to come we talked
about how tough the course was that we saw that day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The mud was 6 to 8 inches deep in some spots
and the weather was -4 degrees Celsius ( -10 with windchill ).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These guys are tough and do it for the love
of it, not the money.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, Saturday morning arrives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rise and shine!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nope, rise and 3 inches of snow<span style="font-size: small;">!</span> <span style="font-size: small;">T</span>his was
going to be a real Belgian style day, not for the faint of heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Having scoped out where we could park on
Friday night, we arrived with plenty of time and walked our way in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Watching the warm ups of the Juniors, we
quickly realized it <span style="font-size: small;">was</span> going to be hard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The windchill ha<span style="font-size: small;">d</span> the temp at –12C according to the road signs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here we are with winter coats, mittens, snow
boots, touques (wool hats for those not familiar with the Canadian word), and
cowbells, and these boys are riding around, warming up as if it were a spring
day.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrM5TqnRKImvpfau9fsEbJ6pMDhJLiW56BNaBZWB8rAE-p0yksokYJ6kteSecUT3JOkQvaImLeM-yZFPFPj96-VI2YbHPGPhPa-vf83Yzi2Qr-G5FDH_WiGyJdMoJiKVANkxpsymQROh4/s1600/michel+and+son.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrM5TqnRKImvpfau9fsEbJ6pMDhJLiW56BNaBZWB8rAE-p0yksokYJ6kteSecUT3JOkQvaImLeM-yZFPFPj96-VI2YbHPGPhPa-vf83Yzi2Qr-G5FDH_WiGyJdMoJiKVANkxpsymQROh4/s400/michel+and+son.PNG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Michel and Gabriel on course and ready<span style="font-size: small;">.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/>
<w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
<w:Word11KerningPairs/>
<w:CachedColBalance/>
</w:Compatibility>
<w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--></div>
</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
</style>
<![endif]--><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD-3ijEK2rC7uxrr1MJ-yJOfWCGPLxpX5WLY78w2W66OAmK4tdjm6OzlIbDll-7ykjwgCg-keJG3f01r-g5JnzoTya_GvFi5g7SKQ4zT5DrfKKOhAO2irrjA49eBXlxGLr9yiN3372qX4/s1600/jr+winner.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD-3ijEK2rC7uxrr1MJ-yJOfWCGPLxpX5WLY78w2W66OAmK4tdjm6OzlIbDll-7ykjwgCg-keJG3f01r-g5JnzoTya_GvFi5g7SKQ4zT5DrfKKOhAO2irrjA49eBXlxGLr9yiN3372qX4/s200/jr+winner.PNG" width="118" /></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">The organizers brought the official Bugler for
the Kentucky Derby to play the National Anthem and Eva Bandman Park stood
silent as we listened to the Star Spangled Banner fill the cold air.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A few minutes passed and then soon we heard
the call to the gate by the Bugler over the sound system, a mild cheer filled
the air and Junior riders were announced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Off they went and cheering escalated throughout the park.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Methieu van der Poel was clearly the
strongest and showed amazing speed when compared to the other riders and won
the event with ease.</span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span></span></span></span></span><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/>
<w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
<w:Word11KerningPairs/>
<w:CachedColBalance/>
</w:Compatibility>
<w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZZB2WjstUOViSfbRG2V7ecxelD0igaLzS3m_ky4BfNp662QPoMFNJpbTl24OB9LVgPBvvOOxYBhfW5tK-Jzdc7mMJJHg5hJxFErLguPuYivMXGgb-MPrTxOMPgMA0BkA3noX6rzR4cng/s1600/catie.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZZB2WjstUOViSfbRG2V7ecxelD0igaLzS3m_ky4BfNp662QPoMFNJpbTl24OB9LVgPBvvOOxYBhfW5tK-Jzdc7mMJJHg5hJxFErLguPuYivMXGgb-MPrTxOMPgMA0BkA3noX6rzR4cng/s200/catie.PNG" width="117" /></a>Next were the Elite Women.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I was really pumped for this as Katie Compton was one of the favorites,
and all I could imagine was the roar if she could win on home soil.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/>
<w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
<w:Word11KerningPairs/>
<w:CachedColBalance/>
</w:Compatibility>
<w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Unfortunately, this was not the case on this day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A poor start by Katie had her in sitting
behind a half dozen riders and by the time she was able to maneuver past them,
the amazing Marianne Vos had such a lead, she was never going to be
caught.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Coming second at the world
championships to a multiple world and Olympic champion is nothing to hang your
head down for.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/>
<w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
<w:Word11KerningPairs/>
<w:CachedColBalance/>
</w:Compatibility>
<w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At this point the Dutch had won both events and were looking
quite strong, as the U23 race was about to begin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Again the race proved to fit the Dutch riders
well and as the temperatures warmed up the mud began to show itself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once hidden by snow and freezing weather the
soil began to soften, and the strain to maintain a straight line became more
and more apparent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Riders began to fall
more often; the lines in the corners became more critical as the slippery nature
of the mud reared its ugly head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
Dutch won the U23 event also.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mike
Teunissen was clearly the strongest and while the pursuers were a little closer
than the previous two races, it was evident that he was racing with
caution<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the last couple laps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The color orange was being waved about more
prominently after winning three consecutive golds.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A break from racing and a walk through the vendor exhibit to
see some cycling products always makes a cyclist feel like a kid in a candy
shop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wheels, frames, clothing and tires
displayed for all to see.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Walking away
from the vendor expo the Kentucky Derby Bugler rang through the sound system
and the crowd erupted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The event was
here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The best of the best were about to
take to the course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>People ran to the
various areas and quickly abandoned whatever they were doing to catch a
glimpse.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The race started and the speed was incredible.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9vwpXMd-YAILiwYufL1TYo6i9t-oeUYyiHyRIWa18DK1ts0TQFSkC_d2_Yqx713nD7icCZMZ2_nFlsKq71c089IOsGo9dfn6vK6fqFQVNCjp2b0Md2VOQxjuNLcFJP1guMEc8l2CZ07g/s1600/start.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9vwpXMd-YAILiwYufL1TYo6i9t-oeUYyiHyRIWa18DK1ts0TQFSkC_d2_Yqx713nD7icCZMZ2_nFlsKq71c089IOsGo9dfn6vK6fqFQVNCjp2b0Md2VOQxjuNLcFJP1guMEc8l2CZ07g/s400/start.PNG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/>
<w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
<w:Word11KerningPairs/>
<w:CachedColBalance/>
</w:Compatibility>
<w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
500 meters in and the Belgian squad was already
controlling the race as five of the first seven spots were from the
Belgium.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The pace was visibly faster and
the skills incredible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mounting and
dis-mounting with such precision and ease was incredible, realizing this was
being done in mud at speeds normally for the road, indescribable.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif_14dsuGOtT_NERRBR5fUs5OsoxKVbE5rBMN_EE7vVEgXui6OC0XjKnABKdQgCEN70j4pMFGwIh2dVY7fSk9ETqvbIwPFjXQ61xLpMdhhIXiA5C0DDLmnNJKhSkWZO5LWaWnI8C6ONEk/s1600/crazy+fans.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif_14dsuGOtT_NERRBR5fUs5OsoxKVbE5rBMN_EE7vVEgXui6OC0XjKnABKdQgCEN70j4pMFGwIh2dVY7fSk9ETqvbIwPFjXQ61xLpMdhhIXiA5C0DDLmnNJKhSkWZO5LWaWnI8C6ONEk/s400/crazy+fans.PNG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/>
<w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
<w:Word11KerningPairs/>
<w:CachedColBalance/>
</w:Compatibility>
<w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
</style>
<![endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">My son was cheering for Sven Nys and who better
to be with then the boys from Belgium.</span><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPtPZrGgCOMj1DBG0ZKFa_caX0lKy0UfUtBCmaZNoNEkLxjx73wuBdnz7glCQAJjvBPfWtO8FuVS0CgJ4BKt8LsvQYHU_JT6zRuVtdfqqTIra44_Kn_sq_pubg5RQEci7Q9I_RLF8qiS8U/s1600/1stand2nd.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPtPZrGgCOMj1DBG0ZKFa_caX0lKy0UfUtBCmaZNoNEkLxjx73wuBdnz7glCQAJjvBPfWtO8FuVS0CgJ4BKt8LsvQYHU_JT6zRuVtdfqqTIra44_Kn_sq_pubg5RQEci7Q9I_RLF8qiS8U/s320/1stand2nd.PNG" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sven Nys (1st), Klass Vantornout (2nd)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglJZOSR8BI9NvK1WNMljHquf615XieET1i1vuBWq6PBNgCXAGFIN_g5om6N1zu8ZkRJslyeHCF5xWHoOwBnYvBrTPjVxOq3Heo7TnCWIN0WQRWMDcZU1dFBv7l73P3XFIC48C-ONiSOygj/s1600/mud.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglJZOSR8BI9NvK1WNMljHquf615XieET1i1vuBWq6PBNgCXAGFIN_g5om6N1zu8ZkRJslyeHCF5xWHoOwBnYvBrTPjVxOq3Heo7TnCWIN0WQRWMDcZU1dFBv7l73P3XFIC48C-ONiSOygj/s320/mud.PNG" width="215" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lars Van den Naar (3rd)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/>
<w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
<w:Word11KerningPairs/>
<w:CachedColBalance/>
</w:Compatibility>
<w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
As the race progressed the mud got worse, but the speed
remained.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the end Sven Nys won
Gold,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Klass Vantornout – Silver and Lars
Van den Naar Bronze.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It was a spectacular weekend with memories to last our
lifetime.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What was the best thing my son
remembers; that I told him if there isn’t mud, it isn’t cyclo cross.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These world championships surely proved my
point.</div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"> _______________________________________________________________</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">Big thanks to Michel for the photos and story! What a great and even historic event to be at. Maybe one day I'll get to see something like that.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">That was last weekend but this weekend saw some road racing at the first of 4 Hincapie Training Series Races. Many of my peeps went up there to get their early season legs figured out. One such peep was Sean Philyaw of CAT4 fame who was even kind enough to share this video of his last lap demise. Enjoy!</span><br />
<a href="http://youtu.be/PMj5qvbXCvw">RACE#1 CAT 4 RR FINISH</a><br />
</div>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/PMj5qvbXCvw" width="420"></iframe>
Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00306386622733315527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655692694530611569.post-38044534538966290132013-02-05T15:51:00.000-05:002013-02-05T15:51:10.433-05:002013 Snake Creek Gap Race #2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7SFHg7SwRupEotrVR8Blm1zSgmaEceoosN5oBdxNfxyYA7nciOUQ75Rrv6td15jBtKaf-hvfBRvXUa2VqnyqViHJGQy2k_Rh56zw6iGqOMuN9HVRCuX4X-nn3sy0on5sDieBwEB8-TQE/s1600/sNAKEcREEKBUCKLE_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7SFHg7SwRupEotrVR8Blm1zSgmaEceoosN5oBdxNfxyYA7nciOUQ75Rrv6td15jBtKaf-hvfBRvXUa2VqnyqViHJGQy2k_Rh56zw6iGqOMuN9HVRCuX4X-nn3sy0on5sDieBwEB8-TQE/s320/sNAKEcREEKBUCKLE_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Guest writer Dustin Mealor is here again and this time he's not so jovial. In fact he sounds more thankful to God that he made it to the finish with all his appendages. From my own experience I can confirm for you guys that the telling of the story never really reflects the burden of the ride on your body and your mind. So I leave you with that thought as you read Dustin's account of the second race in Dalton, Georgia. We'll call it...<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Frost Bite at the Snake</b></span><br />
by Dustin Mealor<br />
<br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]--><br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/>
<w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
<w:Word11KerningPairs/>
<w:CachedColBalance/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin-top:0in;
mso-para-margin-right:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt;
mso-para-margin-left:0in;
line-height:115%;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The word “epic”, when being used to describe a bicycle ride
or race, is one that is really dependent upon the individual using the
word.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That being said, I heard that word
being used by more people this weekend than I ever have.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Snake Creek Gap TT #2 truly was a race of
“epic” proportions.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
We arrived Friday evening in Dalton to check into the hotel
before eating dinner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We ate at a
Mexican restaurant called “Garcias” in Dalton.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was funny walking into the restaurant because it had the name of the
previous Italian restaurant etched in the concrete.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This place even served pasta, which was
another thing I felt was fairly odd for a Mexican restaurant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The food was good, though, and it didn’t hurt
in helping me sleep that night after my belly was full.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTjGYhQ5SrBsU1N40NOQdXRTIXYCXcS7hyphenhyphencsil_82mRTEkBagTsoA633qB8EnTvujGSIyJ2aaHRz-eb4C68QXilIJwNzJRhUeXM52FdaoSqozgUhG3ir3uvojIKmlp1PqbH57ScYshAPI/s1600/7241491_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTjGYhQ5SrBsU1N40NOQdXRTIXYCXcS7hyphenhyphencsil_82mRTEkBagTsoA633qB8EnTvujGSIyJ2aaHRz-eb4C68QXilIJwNzJRhUeXM52FdaoSqozgUhG3ir3uvojIKmlp1PqbH57ScYshAPI/s320/7241491_n.jpg" width="320" /></a>Saturday morning we got up, ate breakfast, then headed off
to the start area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We decided to drive
ourselves this time so we wouldn’t have to deal with the shuttle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When we got there Todd went ahead and left
since he’s a little bit slower than Rob and I.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I went out about 10 seconds before Rob.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I noted that when I left my Garmin said it was 23 degrees outside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The only thing I remember thinking was “I
hope that river is shallow”… it wasn’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When we got to the crossing Rob pedaled across first.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I saw his feet going under the water as he
crossed so I had the bright idea to try and half pedal all the way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This turned out to be a big mistake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The water slowed me to a standstill and I
fell over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t get as wet as last
time when I hit the water full steam, but I ended up walking the river with
water halfway up my shins.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After
crossing the river my Garmin said it was 22 degrees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This would not change again until the last 30
minutes of the race.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF5QG9fe42JvGPVanJNXPF-JlTk3QonPLbyTuN4bqazOutl-J76h4rFq8w_U50YY8bPqKMX2WYSfoGj1pIKuycZHodoWnPp99vDRB6n3YDhlqgVYZo4UJuid4IBIn0M3_MX6D7Y1Rip3o/s1600/SNOW95_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="131" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF5QG9fe42JvGPVanJNXPF-JlTk3QonPLbyTuN4bqazOutl-J76h4rFq8w_U50YY8bPqKMX2WYSfoGj1pIKuycZHodoWnPp99vDRB6n3YDhlqgVYZo4UJuid4IBIn0M3_MX6D7Y1Rip3o/s200/SNOW95_n.jpg" width="200" /></a>As we hit the first climb I noticed Rob struggling a little
but didn’t think much about it after he said he was okay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>About 10 minutes into the climb, I had fully
dropped Rob, which is rare since he’s such a good climber.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I worried about him, but I saw him again
about 30 minutes later when he passed me. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I never saw him again after about a 20-30
minute stint of hanging with him.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Once we got onto the single track, the snow started.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It snowed heavy for about 30 minutes and got
to the point of actually covering the trail itself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This, believe it or not, made navigating the
technical slow stuff easier.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just
rolled over stuff I normally would avoid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It snowed for probably an hour total until it switched to sleet and
freezing rain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Keep in mind that the
temperature never departed from 22.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1s7OKAwtkgV4nLrrU5t3V_PGIXk4gCs0g8MqX5JPP5OiJczQs5iu1ZtRVv7HNDAV7fZgjqTqBi-rP1LbgrXiQp33ogfhjNTQw5FuFxFodGi33pdjjSPJrSvnJpdoWCt6MMcfUaMUBn0s/s1600/SNOW_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1s7OKAwtkgV4nLrrU5t3V_PGIXk4gCs0g8MqX5JPP5OiJczQs5iu1ZtRVv7HNDAV7fZgjqTqBi-rP1LbgrXiQp33ogfhjNTQw5FuFxFodGi33pdjjSPJrSvnJpdoWCt6MMcfUaMUBn0s/s320/SNOW_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Once I hit the halfway point I realized I had lost my brand
new 25oz. insulated Camelbak bottle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This wasn’t a game-ender but having my Camelbak freeze to the point of
nothing coming out of my bite valve was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I had not been drinking much due to the cold, but now I would be forced
to ride over two hours with nothing else to drink.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Honestly this turned out to not be a huge
issue since I was so cold I actually didn’t sweat much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Apparently being soaking wet from snow and
freezing rain in 22 degree temperatures keeps your body from getting hot. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It wasn’t until I had
about 9 miles to go that I decided my race was over and I just stopped.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I knew I had to eat something and try to
force my bite valve to let me have some water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I also decided that I badly wanted to change into the dry socks I had in
my pack.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I spent the next 10 minutes
doing those things, plus trying to get the ice off my cleats that had been
making me ride my bike like it had platform pedals for the previous hour.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
Once I took care of all that, I proceeded
with my race.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmqyZ8SzQe9CfU0KelJocqcOYWD7LM8MRBUNJheTQ6VzZ68PANa9mZMzcJsg2_vR4HMKZtzdqCtbwehp-SewdChZfjYOkxew3T61_uqysS4Cozvqa6xBm7kfmwlItTihK-d1m9cRpalNQ/s1600/DUSTIN+AND+SON_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmqyZ8SzQe9CfU0KelJocqcOYWD7LM8MRBUNJheTQ6VzZ68PANa9mZMzcJsg2_vR4HMKZtzdqCtbwehp-SewdChZfjYOkxew3T61_uqysS4Cozvqa6xBm7kfmwlItTihK-d1m9cRpalNQ/s200/DUSTIN+AND+SON_n.jpg" width="132" /></a>There truly wasn’t anything else that happened for the
remainder of the race.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I mentally
battled myself to keep pushing<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>for those
remaining 9 or so miles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once I hit the
tower (the race is fully downhill from there) I definitely had a feeling of
accomplishment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The final 2 or so mile
descent was very unpleasant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Previously
I had removed my glasses because they literally had a sheet of ice on them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>During this final descent, it sleeted the
whole way down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And 30-40mph in sleet stings
a bit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After the descent, I popped up on
the curb and rounded the turn for the finish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; line-height: 115%;">The day was over, and it truly was EPIC!</span></b></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: small;">Dustin Mealor </span></span></span><br />
<br />
____________________________________<br />
<br />
Thanks Dustin!!<br />
<br />
My own weekend while less "epic" was really fun. After my parents blessed Lisa and I with a night to ourselves we slept in and then attended my youngest daughters Karate sparing practice. She attends the <a href="http://thedojorocks.com/">DOJO</a> in Braselton Georgia where they don't just teach Karate... they teach Self-Confidence. I continue to be very impressed with the way they run things and the lessons my daughter learns. One such lesson will occur next week when she competes for the first time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKkOJ2d_JRRsW2cPsNGj0airTW9gp63RgQwZsFKrT1IKBryQ_-EJ2MJC8ZiOrKaHFtJsspiHFdMQ507RKu6tRSsHyYN7D1RUbceWQwQdU1un__TNOzgBVmIvL8UuH7Qs0oHcO9DK-bfgw/s1600/IMAG0264.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKkOJ2d_JRRsW2cPsNGj0airTW9gp63RgQwZsFKrT1IKBryQ_-EJ2MJC8ZiOrKaHFtJsspiHFdMQ507RKu6tRSsHyYN7D1RUbceWQwQdU1un__TNOzgBVmIvL8UuH7Qs0oHcO9DK-bfgw/s320/IMAG0264.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_RqB5XOebALFv9enriXx4zWGQI12gNKXzhFiCJ3IwFX0rUNjeYR7ivj8TQzCtsEBqO4IOQZkw1rKaGt-odzxJeBsHxyZDT2YC37y9hZVZ-LhEhKgCCZdl8xsXTW9ZWg_0dD8S03KkVfY/s1600/IMAG0262.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_RqB5XOebALFv9enriXx4zWGQI12gNKXzhFiCJ3IwFX0rUNjeYR7ivj8TQzCtsEBqO4IOQZkw1rKaGt-odzxJeBsHxyZDT2YC37y9hZVZ-LhEhKgCCZdl8xsXTW9ZWg_0dD8S03KkVfY/s320/IMAG0262.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
Then I took Molly, my 13 year old, to Fort Yargo to train for the <a href="http://www.dirtyspokes.com/fort-yargo-state-park-duathlon/">Dirty Spokes Duathlon</a> she says she wants to do there. She'll be racing as a solo while I compete in the 2 Man Team division with my good friend Kelly Edwards.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXNoyNAQ0XsfIBVF1zfml2sdkreCTvuJ4Dh205owZ007KAn10hrcT4JO1-VM-FPa9fvcwFhd9jx_sbnEsv2IOEmfy8_kpQpIaQEoggjIKW9doEvEvdrttgt2d1HPhqZuqHyVr6uE34fV4/s1600/mark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXNoyNAQ0XsfIBVF1zfml2sdkreCTvuJ4Dh205owZ007KAn10hrcT4JO1-VM-FPa9fvcwFhd9jx_sbnEsv2IOEmfy8_kpQpIaQEoggjIKW9doEvEvdrttgt2d1HPhqZuqHyVr6uE34fV4/s200/mark.jpg" width="168" /></a>We rode the outer loop and stopped in key places so she could practice on some of the harder areas. I have no doubt she can make it. I'm just nervous about her being out there without me. For that reason she will have her cell phone with tracking on. I love technology!<br />
We saw a ton of folks we knew out there including the Lester's (our Coed Team nemesis) and even a new friend I made just last week named Mark.<br />
Crazy people like us were everywhere! Evidently there are a lot of families who ride bikes! What are they thinking?? Don't they know there's more costly, less physically demanding fun out there? Why weren't they at the Mall with everyone else?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEzAm0MiDznCQRbQwRjuwJnOoZ1dWn6-a2tAP4Im_BxaQsceo2lIdNxBpSnOf5pDtmdGeqJwCKgOhelFhHumRBq5rMcDEpuyMVZCCqow7ua6v1JHFP6cuv3Dmfw0IK2rvbPB-Fk2jNfew/s1600/IMAG0270_BURST002_COVER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEzAm0MiDznCQRbQwRjuwJnOoZ1dWn6-a2tAP4Im_BxaQsceo2lIdNxBpSnOf5pDtmdGeqJwCKgOhelFhHumRBq5rMcDEpuyMVZCCqow7ua6v1JHFP6cuv3Dmfw0IK2rvbPB-Fk2jNfew/s320/IMAG0270_BURST002_COVER.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2013 Super Bowl Team</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The next day was Super Bowl Sunday! And as is our custom we joined the annual JCCHS Alumni Super Bowl game of "Two Hand Tackle". Or as it is most commonly known "Two Hand Shove".<br />
Since I was a freshman in high school we have played this game. Every year.<br />
But a few years ago we all started getting old and it dawned on us that so were our kids. So we decided to let the kids play and we referee. Oh yeah! We got smart.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzpdUgtSeMWtrw8VBAvtzrjlhAXCaN8wjBjKeQmByjAq-d9s4WCgPAPHkjODOs2ln7FYPo84d-yq9IJY3X_3A' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzmte8413ZDogVBF6BbdUjXJzQ26cEwt6HVwv4Zo51ysEhtEtY-GAkD-zT2UyaWwy9fvi7qzNv8hEBZdaxe6w' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
As you can see we had a ton of fun. These kids have so much energy. And they really can take a hit!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGSQd_tKca4KZg94C00_95ZewcCIt5sITWj0KO3J5kQJkKALAcnG5OErwg_bWVAms4y4WTAWH_P9eoCj7NidrBQvM3naAd3qAZi_zFGyZypD6AmVybSaHaw0OQXOeYN2xyPeawpUgZpLc/s1600/IMAG0295.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGSQd_tKca4KZg94C00_95ZewcCIt5sITWj0KO3J5kQJkKALAcnG5OErwg_bWVAms4y4WTAWH_P9eoCj7NidrBQvM3naAd3qAZi_zFGyZypD6AmVybSaHaw0OQXOeYN2xyPeawpUgZpLc/s400/IMAG0295.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />I'm really getting excited about the season of riding and racing that's coming up! I'll be kicking off my season with a lung burning relay race on mountain bikes with the likes of Trace Nabors and David Shabat. In two weeks it's the Chainbuster 6 Hour MTB Series at Tribble Mill Park in Lawrenceville, GA!<br />
<br />
Then it's the Southeast Bike Expo! Then it's the Hincapie Training Series! Then a Duathlon at Fort Yargo! Then another Chainbuster race! Then the Trillium Trek!<br />
<br />
Weekend after weekend of RACING!!!<br />
<br />
So stay tuned for the latest crazy stories from whom ever I can talk into writing them. It's going to be a great season!<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading!<br />
<br />
Chad Hayes<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; line-height: 115%;"> </span></b></span>Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00306386622733315527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655692694530611569.post-17168767156049998122013-01-29T13:06:00.000-05:002013-01-29T13:17:27.738-05:00Something that Inspires MeOver the past few months I've been impressed and influenced by some great things happening around North Georgia and beyond. So many things that I thought I would share at least one of them. Hopefully you too can find some encouragement from this story and know that either; you are not alone or that you can overcome when crap happens that you can't control or don't deserve.<br />
<br />
Most recently is the diagnosis given to Benny Bohanon after over a period of a week he went from riding his bike 50 miles to unable to stand to now unable to walk. Benny has ridden countless miles with and without me. He is always invited on any trip we take because Benny is great fun. Always smiling and willing to sacrifice for anybody, Benny is a true friend.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi486TL-mqKKxXIMbPyY9ouvnXE3EaOvaxPZf1_BgJHFRoO5vBaE6MfMJU4hQkR5QLM9dhhJw-iyqgibQz9fZ3bWgJY6Ucs7ORrzsssMADRLhIALC-MtBNzNT6KVh7KIPfBNbfwnKIDVvs/s1600/IMAG0014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi486TL-mqKKxXIMbPyY9ouvnXE3EaOvaxPZf1_BgJHFRoO5vBaE6MfMJU4hQkR5QLM9dhhJw-iyqgibQz9fZ3bWgJY6Ucs7ORrzsssMADRLhIALC-MtBNzNT6KVh7KIPfBNbfwnKIDVvs/s320/IMAG0014.jpg" width="177" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Benny Bohanon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Two weeks ago he was diagnosed with Muscular Dystrophy. An unbelievable and totally unexpected event in any one's life but even more so given Benny's love for cycling. <span style="color: black;">I</span>'ve received many updates from him about the doctors predictions and his own take on them but none made me more proud than this update on January 25th, 2013.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Good Friends,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">As many of you may know, I am off the bike for now, I was diagnosed with MS, the day after New Years, and am spending my time in a wheelchair these days. Dr. says it is temporary, and I will be probably be back on the bike this summer. I can’t wait. Right now my legs are useless, my calf muscles that I was so proud of are just loose skin.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I know God has a plan for me in all this, and it has to be patience, and learning to go on his schedule, not mine.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Then last night I was praying. I had this long prayer about everything I wanted God to do for me by Monday, then by two weeks, then by a month, then 6 months. Then it hit me, I was doing the same thing to God that I do to everyone else around me. Giving orders, then expecting it to all get done by a certain time. I had to stop and ask for forgiveness for my demands.</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpOV-KqeAI6_Mlpm0_7veEppQfgkSw46lzsBm62kxW2sg0OeMu5irh1wZm6vMABJeuTY0fk_XxjurmnxoaVE1WS6oFHXpY4y8Z9dDhWGFpHX6FTMj_kxQPpSkUNzbHSX2fjKs7qDSXGMQ/s1600/Benny3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpOV-KqeAI6_Mlpm0_7veEppQfgkSw46lzsBm62kxW2sg0OeMu5irh1wZm6vMABJeuTY0fk_XxjurmnxoaVE1WS6oFHXpY4y8Z9dDhWGFpHX6FTMj_kxQPpSkUNzbHSX2fjKs7qDSXGMQ/s200/Benny3.jpg" width="173" /></a><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Then I immediately started thinking about some of my bike rides. We rode to the top of some of the biggest mountains in the Southeast, including Hogpen Gap, Brasstown Bald, and Mount Mitchell in North Carolina. Mount Mitchell was the biggest, with 20 miles of uphill grade to the top, and only a couple of short descents to rest. Whenever I was on a really big climb, I would count my pedal strokes, 1, 2, 3, all the way to 100, then start again. Many times I would count over 1000, I remember counting over 3000 pedal strokes once. The guys would laugh at me, when they would be talking and I would tell them they were messing up my count. See what I was doing... I was taking those big mountains one pedal stroke, one Step, at a time. It was like God showed me that, right after my prayer.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">So that’s what I am going to learn from all this, and more things too, patience, perseverance, learning to depend on others around me, and learning to go one step at a time. We’ll just have to wait and see how long its going to take to get over this mountain.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Hope to see you all on the road soon.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Your Friend, Benny</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">That's why I like Benny so much. He just throws it out there. If it's on his mind it's coming out of his mouth. He's just happy to be "in the mix" when he's with all of us on a ride. But don't let me mislead you. Benny can hammer. He works hard and never makes a bad decision. And like I said he's great fun.</span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2pSRgVyP_GFPcnFguMZJgoQX9H_YzW6lVuyA79yJXQnrX0EQgAd-EvMDqECYbpthUJ5vPRw-Pq8U0RXqh0DN9JqMgv0z1hMQPgHm806dx7h6zeV98fnxlrWxrrd2WsKLay8jxPJKXyZw/s1600/IMAG0248.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2pSRgVyP_GFPcnFguMZJgoQX9H_YzW6lVuyA79yJXQnrX0EQgAd-EvMDqECYbpthUJ5vPRw-Pq8U0RXqh0DN9JqMgv0z1hMQPgHm806dx7h6zeV98fnxlrWxrrd2WsKLay8jxPJKXyZw/s320/IMAG0248.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfyLqS4bBpwSUHW7sRjIosJjMCjVVWKpNwEbp3qMuxCBab5oc_uC6tuR7I3pfzlr1FXz_Vq3v5OY3u_Ra02fjeeChI54QM7qDQn55ttxmsaPsIBElErCbdLzzcNwC7Tyc6zPv1GJ4_Z40/s1600/IMAG0246.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfyLqS4bBpwSUHW7sRjIosJjMCjVVWKpNwEbp3qMuxCBab5oc_uC6tuR7I3pfzlr1FXz_Vq3v5OY3u_Ra02fjeeChI54QM7qDQn55ttxmsaPsIBElErCbdLzzcNwC7Tyc6zPv1GJ4_Z40/s200/IMAG0246.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">So this week I declared my need for a Group Ride. After being a host home with 9 middle school girls for our church's Winter Weekend I was ready to put some miles in with friends. I put it out there on an email and 8 roadies showed up in downtown Lula, Georgia to ride together. Only Stephen Sisk and I knew about the trip to Benny's. I sprung it on them at the start of the ride. Of course they were just fine with it. So we prayed and off we went.</span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWqVYhPW6egTGe210XaWg-0W3oaAJvUUoLM2TaPL5xysF7hZ7zrnzE1s8Fm1mDYZHQvopCjgHFh68dKYnSql1mV8L7svnriaJGw0wZbzJT1gnDIkeizoQstJs25yD6T2kPiukzmnuIo7o/s1600/Alex.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWqVYhPW6egTGe210XaWg-0W3oaAJvUUoLM2TaPL5xysF7hZ7zrnzE1s8Fm1mDYZHQvopCjgHFh68dKYnSql1mV8L7svnriaJGw0wZbzJT1gnDIkeizoQstJs25yD6T2kPiukzmnuIo7o/s200/Alex.jpg" width="127" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">My only concern other than Benny not being there was the first time group rider Alex Fuentes. He was nervous. But he had all the right gear and smiled a lot so I wasn't worried too much. He was riding an old school Litespeed Ti bike with a triple chain ring his father-n-law gave him. He has no idea how cool it really is. Even though I keep telling him.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And speaking of old school, Star Bridges was rocking a vintage 90's John Deer jersey from his glory days on the team in Athens. I really envy him sometimes.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">David Latty was wearing a funky green and white jersey that I'm sure I would never have bought from seeing it in a picture. But on him it was totally different somehow. It was so ugly is was cool. And that doesn't happen often. At least not to me.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">So we headed towards Maysville on a long road called County Line that was mostly down hill. Not the best start to a ride because we never got warmed up. But we talked and I got to catch up with my friend Sean Philyaw. The back roads in Banks and Habersham are the best for riding.</span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy4MxzIuCs8oNcMWgn6_aWp1UQZEc6Qi6DScuvkb7bAqR17bLIq6kb5t0s-H3375vtSXO6CUoxq2DHmk53NwkiYsRWsUds4_URS6rgni7_nR7Gw8hHu4k05CJ1Ai9shq-OkaIbSbvzzt8/s1600/IMAG0255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy4MxzIuCs8oNcMWgn6_aWp1UQZEc6Qi6DScuvkb7bAqR17bLIq6kb5t0s-H3375vtSXO6CUoxq2DHmk53NwkiYsRWsUds4_URS6rgni7_nR7Gw8hHu4k05CJ1Ai9shq-OkaIbSbvzzt8/s640/IMAG0255.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Once in Maysville we took a left across the tracks and on to Benny's house. We rolled up and I knocked on the door. His wife came to the door and looked really puzzled. I said "We're here to see Benny?" Then she smiled really big and went to get him.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">She pushed him to the door and he was surprised. His face was beaming. I felt really great.</span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcz8m2YKx88Pih5gVY_kP8dnazp0UUiE_yaOM57QV8DC8GqmVqWQwKWHvjQ5v_5p-3-_S-aiB0cWf8_vEcevH5PQ6V2Ith-sE-lapsJegbfqvAzR2WNJEzyJztq8mbE5aNZzOPiVVNlVA/s1600/Benny2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcz8m2YKx88Pih5gVY_kP8dnazp0UUiE_yaOM57QV8DC8GqmVqWQwKWHvjQ5v_5p-3-_S-aiB0cWf8_vEcevH5PQ6V2Ith-sE-lapsJegbfqvAzR2WNJEzyJztq8mbE5aNZzOPiVVNlVA/s400/Benny2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The guys were gathered around as I wheeleed him down a few steps. He started thanking us and telling us the story of what he'd been going through. His wife brought him a jacket and took pictures while we talked. He must have thanked us a hundred times. I felt like we hadn't really done much. But to him it was obviously a great encouragement. We were all moved by his sweet attentive wife and his relentless positive attitude. The whole thing weighed heavy on all of us as we rolled away from Benny's home. I started thinking just how many wonderful things just happened?</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3c6zg4Rci7hFC3BLXdHQC3L7a0kggV7FBAnWyYytH9No3UEDPbo2Yi6yu95P2bchytO_WRb_UO47WiWGjE-FmqwmuttmwRRWQvXn22XME2gr7djnfLwEtKbubK9_R8scg-iAY5braJYQ/s1600/Benny1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3c6zg4Rci7hFC3BLXdHQC3L7a0kggV7FBAnWyYytH9No3UEDPbo2Yi6yu95P2bchytO_WRb_UO47WiWGjE-FmqwmuttmwRRWQvXn22XME2gr7djnfLwEtKbubK9_R8scg-iAY5braJYQ/s640/Benny1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Sunday ride to Benny's house was more than just a visit.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWjF0gUUJTUFe0UIol31bPqDeB6dvEkIdn9GP9efcIzBisKyPgU5TezNRlV5DSWlJ-eI0BCNPpJ61Yz-_I9Gs-gWkh5_ucCdPk00uPc1l0-aGzhylvx8wmlX2qs2tPlX3nUEU2cZs98Z0/s1600/IMAG0253.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWjF0gUUJTUFe0UIol31bPqDeB6dvEkIdn9GP9efcIzBisKyPgU5TezNRlV5DSWlJ-eI0BCNPpJ61Yz-_I9Gs-gWkh5_ucCdPk00uPc1l0-aGzhylvx8wmlX2qs2tPlX3nUEU2cZs98Z0/s320/IMAG0253.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">When we rolled to the end of the driveway there was a decision to make. How do we get back to Lula? At that moment nobody really cared. David threw out a suggestion and we took a left.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I found myself on the front with Star Bridges and we rode for a minute just soaking it in. Then he said "Makes you really enjoy every pedal stroke doesn't it?" I said "Yeah, it sure does."</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I'm pretty sure every one's conversation for the next 10 minutes included words like that.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">During the ride back I broke the cleat on my right shoe and couldn't clip in. This created an annoying but challenging problem. Evidently I've had those cleats for a long time. We rode down a road called Carson Segars and I took the time to hang out with our newbie Alex. It was on this road that he began to ride farther than he'd ever been. His legs and lungs new it but his head must be pretty stubborn because he kept on mashing to keep up. I think Alex would love racing his bike some... he has the head for it. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="405" scrolling="no" src="http://app.strava.com/activities/38906921/embed/457f2f108773611ae6f41d31cf76bb3a5f3d92eb" width="590"></iframe><br />
<br />
We regrouped a couple of times on the way back up to Lula. I stayed with Alex and we talked cycling. His friend Mark stayed with us and we got him back in one piece. I thought it was especially nice of the guys to wait on us just outside of Lula and we all rode in together. What a great day on the bike with friends!<br />
<br />
The next day I received an email from Benny. I'm posting it because I know all the guys with me will be reading this and I want to extend the good feeling they carried away from our ride. I was told one time by a good friend that the greatest measure of blessing that God can bestow on a man is when that man gives selflessly to someone else. "The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself" (Proverbs 11:25).<br />
<br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/>
<w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
<w:Word11KerningPairs/>
<w:CachedColBalance/>
</w:Compatibility>
<w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Chad,</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Thanks again for the Bike Group visit Sunday. I
know it was your idea to get that together. You will never know how much that
meant to me. What an encouragement! I was beaming the rest of the day, I
haven’t felt this good in weeks. Looking back, I believe Sunday will be a
turning point in my MS flare-up, and God will start his healing on my body
now. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I hope you get a real blessing in return for
your good deed. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Thanks again, </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Hope to see you all on the road real soon,</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Your Friend,</span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">Benny
Bohanan</span><br />
<div style="background-color: transparent; border: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
<br /></div>
Thanks for reading!<br />
<br />
Chad HayesChadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00306386622733315527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655692694530611569.post-20561232946811299472013-01-15T14:41:00.001-05:002013-01-15T15:27:15.871-05:002013 Snake Creek Moutain Bike Time Trials - Race#1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe3zpLWgD80kRLlw5HGN5I_6dap80AATzHaY3km8d5dOp6mNaeTHN4Sn2Q-Zf_O3Pz_U21F1S49CpMG2LkR7a9sc6bE-dr4QbtzbCskoacgoYJLk6jMSsfC7jy6glZ-R5yYISpxYtgSf4/s1600/sNAKEcREEKBUCKLE_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe3zpLWgD80kRLlw5HGN5I_6dap80AATzHaY3km8d5dOp6mNaeTHN4Sn2Q-Zf_O3Pz_U21F1S49CpMG2LkR7a9sc6bE-dr4QbtzbCskoacgoYJLk6jMSsfC7jy6glZ-R5yYISpxYtgSf4/s320/sNAKEcREEKBUCKLE_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/>
<w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
<w:Word11KerningPairs/>
<w:CachedColBalance/>
</w:Compatibility>
<w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/>
<w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
<w:Word11KerningPairs/>
<w:CachedColBalance/>
</w:Compatibility>
<w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]-->I asked my friend Dustin Mealor to tell you guys about his first of 3 <a href="http://snake.nwgasorba.org/">Snake Creek Gap Races</a>. This is a mountain bike time trial series. A race on the first Saturday of Jan/Feb/March that gives no consideration to weather, rising river water, or life threatening terrain. In other words it's a super cool experience. I have to this point never committed to it. And each year I regret it.<br />
For the elite racers there's money to be had. But for everyone who completes all three races (the Trifecta) there's a sweet belt buckle for you. It makes me sick to think about missing it again so I'll turn this blog over the Dustin.<br />
<br />
<b>RACE #1 - by Dustin Mealor</b><br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br />
The
Snake Creek Gap Time Trial Series is not just any mountain bike race. The
Snake is a race that takes 34 miles of trail and crams in 4,000 ft of climbing,
huge rocks littering a 1-2 mile portion of the trail, fast descents, a very
wide and deep “creek crossing” and cold temperatures. I’ve been racing
mountain bikes for about two years now and this has been on my list since the
beginning. I was finally roped into doing it this year (through very
little coercion from friends). I’ll give a quick little story of how the
day went.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQn5h7Q7kmrt4_05WM78c05YIUSYl70Hvyuumf_0GwbftAuYqgGUQXAs_FyIBVw2V8BCRnKg3AUJe3QPiIinJgZ1VcnJdINEIu9HxoGgPRcjtfr540JuO0_whFprUsT97-LJ7JJwCliyE/s1600/Snake+Creek+Gap+Sign2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQn5h7Q7kmrt4_05WM78c05YIUSYl70Hvyuumf_0GwbftAuYqgGUQXAs_FyIBVw2V8BCRnKg3AUJe3QPiIinJgZ1VcnJdINEIu9HxoGgPRcjtfr540JuO0_whFprUsT97-LJ7JJwCliyE/s200/Snake+Creek+Gap+Sign2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
We
drove in the night before and planned to get up around 7AM so we could eat
breakfast and be to the shuttle area ready to go around 8AM. Once we got
over to the shuttle area around 8:30AM (mountain biker time) we ended up
waiting for around an hour just to make it on a shuttle to the start
line. Couple this with standing outside in spandex in 32 degree
temperatures and it made for a long hour.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHKuKWtEjeYE5g1jYMnGf2yrDqvqDAxsWQLP-id3XpPEuTdlUSmMdmQeOGmqBAXwGscxbtVx4UHqWHZiMwgFTGz62EZft7M09UF2M-mIlAR0YndHjiZ_Oi0EeInwYOWPKIfXhlEPF1758/s1600/safe_image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHKuKWtEjeYE5g1jYMnGf2yrDqvqDAxsWQLP-id3XpPEuTdlUSmMdmQeOGmqBAXwGscxbtVx4UHqWHZiMwgFTGz62EZft7M09UF2M-mIlAR0YndHjiZ_Oi0EeInwYOWPKIfXhlEPF1758/s320/safe_image.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
Once
the shuttle arrived we headed off on about a 30 or so minute drive to the start
line. Mind you when we left in the shuttle the bike shuttle had yet to
arrive for our bikes. Once we got to the start line we had another 30 or
so minutes to wait before the bike shuttle arrived. This is not to say
the race wasn’t run well. I can imagine the logistics of this race being
a nightmare. There were 437 racers for goodness sakes!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
Once
my bike arrived my buddy and fellow faster-than-me cyclist Rob Butler were
off. Rob dropped me on the first area because I don’t know how to pull up
my leg warmers well enough and had to stop. After I fixed this problem I
was off again through sloshy uphills from the recent rains. When I say
uphill I mean uphill. I swear this course has 85% climbing and technical,
10% downhill and 5% flat. It’s a tough course.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAzo19DR4YyEavMYg-31kc79gu5ZeQ6LAuBqrlUUDvpkB5r16g14LU66hroCJzuZD1k5Dj6Zfi6yCcmmbrrZ-0e63nUqniEgV2el1Y8au25zH_aCKalG_Ij4iVnfmsDviZRxUPq-1WYt4/s1600/260414_535561474321_1643832641_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAzo19DR4YyEavMYg-31kc79gu5ZeQ6LAuBqrlUUDvpkB5r16g14LU66hroCJzuZD1k5Dj6Zfi6yCcmmbrrZ-0e63nUqniEgV2el1Y8au25zH_aCKalG_Ij4iVnfmsDviZRxUPq-1WYt4/s320/260414_535561474321_1643832641_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Screen print of Dustin's race.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
The
first part of the race was uneventful minus me nailing the “creek crossing”
hard enough to soak myself from the waist down. It was about 37 degrees
probably by then so I didn’t freeze quite as bad. I passed people here
and there and honestly didn’t have any mishaps or anything. My bike got gunked
up and started shifting bad but that’s to be expected when you’re racing in the
mud.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
Once
I crossed the road to start the second 17 miles (there’s a 17 mile option that
starts from here) I met a girl named Casey that tore me up. I’ll be
honest when I say I’ve never ridden with a girl or lady that could handle a
bike like this girl. I rode with her for probably the next 8-10 miles and
she pushed me. She would drop me on the twisty and downhills and I would
catch her on the uphills and motor sections.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggJ1F4WVHSYA7k9WZVLdYZDSDOH4N_v4tozhQcVbIlPZrXrbvqlLGPBCJtG61ZWZvskDtFZO9SdQVFqm1y7nM0qr5wAMbjoghQuhhjGDPbwMHxCB5RT6rCgZJImp5osDeE_3R71r8EoVg/s1600/DUSTIN_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggJ1F4WVHSYA7k9WZVLdYZDSDOH4N_v4tozhQcVbIlPZrXrbvqlLGPBCJtG61ZWZvskDtFZO9SdQVFqm1y7nM0qr5wAMbjoghQuhhjGDPbwMHxCB5RT6rCgZJImp5osDeE_3R71r8EoVg/s320/DUSTIN_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br />
After
losing touch with my new friend when she stopped at the aide station for a
banana I rode the rest of the race with a friend/acquaintance named Brian
DeLoughy. I stayed with him for a while but he finally dropped me and I
had the rock garden section followed by the downhill to the finish. I
rode quite a bit of the rock garden that I’ve never made it over before but
still had to walk quite a bit. I caught up to Brian later yelling in pain
from a cramp in his calve that I could visibly see locking up from behind
(ouch). </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
The
rest was boring. I went downhill really fast on my mountain bike.
The top speed on the descent was 44.1mph, which honestly is a bit scary on a
mtb! I finished the day at 3:48 which put me in 6<sup>th</sup> place for
the series. A great finish to a great weekend!<br />
<br />
Here's a cool <a href="http://youtu.be/VHfJmfrlrV4">VIDEO</a>!<br />
<br />
Dustin Mealor<br />
<br />
Thank you Dustin for sharing your experience. Now can you people see why I want to do this series!<br />
<br />
I am looking forward to the <a href="http://www.chainbusterracing.com/">Chainbuster</a> Series this year as well. I hear it's bigger and better than ever with some super cool sponsors and BIG prizes!<br />
<br />
<b>Here's a local racing EXCLUSIVE</b> - New North Georgia Cycling team Prima Tappa Cycling Club in cooperation with Dingo Race Productions will be hosting a downtown Crit on Saturday July 13th in Flowery Branch!! Oh yeah! Put that on your calendar and smoke it!<br />
<br />
Shout out to my Triathlon friends!!! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg17LZI01edpdMjjkBcg7vnJfGeYQObkk6R8sc0A5ZOgmHAg2TTJlI_96jMS1swSSV2X9tOIXgp-dgdNAsRcQZ1T9cKbVzrdapowu97F6Us1BHhHdcjRzKXK3c25kWCNn7lDsOA3CWWrlY/s1600/FCA703.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg17LZI01edpdMjjkBcg7vnJfGeYQObkk6R8sc0A5ZOgmHAg2TTJlI_96jMS1swSSV2X9tOIXgp-dgdNAsRcQZ1T9cKbVzrdapowu97F6Us1BHhHdcjRzKXK3c25kWCNn7lDsOA3CWWrlY/s320/FCA703.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Also in the planning for April 2014 is a <b>HALF IRON MAN</b> in Hall County presented by FCA Endurance! More on that and it's lead up training weekends soon.<br />
<br />
Check back on my blog home page often this year for the lastest race and ride information.<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading!<br />
<br />
Chad Hayes </div>
Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00306386622733315527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655692694530611569.post-60844897738066801622013-01-08T14:41:00.000-05:002013-01-10T13:56:26.412-05:002013 New Years GAP Ride<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha3VHhi3TagPZ2FJI1ZbxQJRuApGLDsLNN6mHNVxN4U48qjBezrMXmyrgyEfslobYlCM-mdl5DlCED8u8a_7Vppd7EE4INNvM2Ym7vgBnZOm04OQv4X4ika_Fy_xVEJHfmcLbM_3k_hJA/s1600/IMG_6461.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha3VHhi3TagPZ2FJI1ZbxQJRuApGLDsLNN6mHNVxN4U48qjBezrMXmyrgyEfslobYlCM-mdl5DlCED8u8a_7Vppd7EE4INNvM2Ym7vgBnZOm04OQv4X4ika_Fy_xVEJHfmcLbM_3k_hJA/s400/IMG_6461.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hog Pen Gap, Helen, Georgia</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Originally scheduled for Tuesday, January 1st this ride had to be rescheduled because of rain. We moved it to Saturday morning and prayed for sunshine. Turns out our prayers were answered but we should have been praying for warmer weather.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGdnpFeFzE2_fZwuZFhNEi6d4jRyl_4D6Jqo7k_FkVJw1n6L6qaWYMaFUmO18MDUdN3Bl4v3aSY_K6dSKviVZO4mHza4HcVTYmUhNwOOM2kr3-ToOIhyphenhyphen6CsCbmbhH6v8Bf_2x_KUB8RXE/s1600/IMG_6441.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGdnpFeFzE2_fZwuZFhNEi6d4jRyl_4D6Jqo7k_FkVJw1n6L6qaWYMaFUmO18MDUdN3Bl4v3aSY_K6dSKviVZO4mHza4HcVTYmUhNwOOM2kr3-ToOIhyphenhyphen6CsCbmbhH6v8Bf_2x_KUB8RXE/s320/IMG_6441.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgzQcq1GrAYpwxy_zZogdJi58vSe6PdPkDNhhNovK9YdI4jo_Ga7wzBQoIht6O8Akt1y87wkdemTPggv_4BNrh-qOg16fnKeUEcvFZeHWLFfmDauzzoHSiYbvAiH-iuzDarip9X2qk4wE/s1600/IMG_6445.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgzQcq1GrAYpwxy_zZogdJi58vSe6PdPkDNhhNovK9YdI4jo_Ga7wzBQoIht6O8Akt1y87wkdemTPggv_4BNrh-qOg16fnKeUEcvFZeHWLFfmDauzzoHSiYbvAiH-iuzDarip9X2qk4wE/s320/IMG_6445.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
23 degrees at 9:00AM. That's what we stepped out of the cars into. But that's when the fun began as well. Guys arrived and began to get ready. My friend Wojtek Wysocki (pronounced Voitec) declared his intention to ride his elliptical bike (Zike Saber) all the way to the top of Hog Pen. It weighed 41 pounds.<br />
Okay then.<br />
We all gathered around staring at him as he checked the tire pressure, shaking our heads in disbelief. Odds were not being taken on if he would make it. We were betting he would be in the car with his eliptobike on the rack within 3 miles of the 7 mile climb. But Wojtek was full of energy and so happy to be there. I like him a lot.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxKXGB6LOpwOXBcJBvgHyUldxv5chZoCOjDcCnmnM_kJr_Ad0Uhij0StEfCt-8fZh81psh7Z4OHMvsmDGRvXr8ikf-cvMEk_vUzog5Sqt9nquL5eu9K7zcwBsJbBEOaamzHxM9JPqcpTo/s1600/IMG_6453.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxKXGB6LOpwOXBcJBvgHyUldxv5chZoCOjDcCnmnM_kJr_Ad0Uhij0StEfCt-8fZh81psh7Z4OHMvsmDGRvXr8ikf-cvMEk_vUzog5Sqt9nquL5eu9K7zcwBsJbBEOaamzHxM9JPqcpTo/s320/IMG_6453.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Curt Badura</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Our group headed out into the cold, anxious to get warm on the climb. The Brave Ones were David Shabat, David Latty, Stephen Sisk, Curt Badura, Trace Nabors and our valiant driver Gary McCarthy. And me.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT0Yuzyhn__fgV-e_wb2gRnmdKCx3_wW5wkKbm7eekXZrfJ3sxYkzXkc7Mo5ZKD_zJIniCAC8KN-Ywe6DtFSnc123JHzCi_vA30UPEPc8cRDt1ut4HqhAzUxeH4cXC5YbhbCPF39V27t8/s1600/IMG_6463.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT0Yuzyhn__fgV-e_wb2gRnmdKCx3_wW5wkKbm7eekXZrfJ3sxYkzXkc7Mo5ZKD_zJIniCAC8KN-Ywe6DtFSnc123JHzCi_vA30UPEPc8cRDt1ut4HqhAzUxeH4cXC5YbhbCPF39V27t8/s320/IMG_6463.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Curt and Me</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The bravest of the brave would have to be Curt Badura who was riding in the Gaps for the first time and against the will of mother nature. His ride would be a new miserable experience that we could all sympathize with for we have all been there. Hog Pen is ruthless.<br />
<br />
We left Wojtek before the climb ever started. As we rode past him he was stepping away at his machine and declaring his will was unbreakable. I thought to myself, yeah I can want to run a marathon but it's not all up to my brain. My body has to agree.<br />
I climbed with Curt for a while and gave him some advice he didn't ask for. Then I moved up to David Shabat and rode with him for awhile. <br />
Trace and Stephen were always just around the corner and soon David and I tried to catch them before they reached the first plateau<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaYmHtFpyiSx6ugq_7hzL36acxHjq3SX8Jshg32FISKK0gJgjVhfNWoqOh4oW53TeaukrYmYmJRQGdRzhm5G49CP7McCjoKmDHWMUX657Qk7kp9FpbQupQ7fFwFybvarKYB5Tf7J6eUB4/s1600/IMG_6457.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaYmHtFpyiSx6ugq_7hzL36acxHjq3SX8Jshg32FISKK0gJgjVhfNWoqOh4oW53TeaukrYmYmJRQGdRzhm5G49CP7McCjoKmDHWMUX657Qk7kp9FpbQupQ7fFwFybvarKYB5Tf7J6eUB4/s320/IMG_6457.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">David Shabat, Stephen Sisk, Trace Nabors</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We reached the top and took some quick pics for good measure. Curt decided to get in the car at some point so he was there and ready to try and survive the decent. When David Latty arrived we asked Gary to drive back down and rescue Wojtek. He was probably lying in a ditch at mile 3.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOcf8N9-hiG4AemAA3Gqel1vMi4lZVlgsrZzitVGkkKHyWhQ1cx49oIuO3yiO6ffAQElK6cIX48qNJDEfapHMtfuVMetlcXpSKVBL5-ibGIJceifivHCTzrGog-I7XrqyAGwdvliZOFzU/s1600/IMAG0155.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOcf8N9-hiG4AemAA3Gqel1vMi4lZVlgsrZzitVGkkKHyWhQ1cx49oIuO3yiO6ffAQElK6cIX48qNJDEfapHMtfuVMetlcXpSKVBL5-ibGIJceifivHCTzrGog-I7XrqyAGwdvliZOFzU/s400/IMAG0155.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Three Amigos at the top of Hog Pen Gap</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
If our layers and covers don't convince you about how stinking cold it was I snapped this pic of Trace climbing past some frozen evidence. A nice reminder of our insanity. And yet we were having a blast!?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTup8OUsTaag49XlYUKiIjy95CiJHHT42-5GzRz280Bnl3cDzqSirAXxfW19FZUoysSf6fe_nHSeMf0f31JxExz6f02JIDIvwlAr7fu_9elzdaMX-RzW7IE5xcYELZXoi9wMw_0nhsYAc/s1600/IMAG0153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTup8OUsTaag49XlYUKiIjy95CiJHHT42-5GzRz280Bnl3cDzqSirAXxfW19FZUoysSf6fe_nHSeMf0f31JxExz6f02JIDIvwlAr7fu_9elzdaMX-RzW7IE5xcYELZXoi9wMw_0nhsYAc/s400/IMAG0153.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trace Nabors and the ice.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPsnE_c3x1JlN7WTLSp2YfiutmrWw1nFBEg6LAoDV93zIBHGbj_oVM3YeZHZ1k3iorLvUNvUC7iEB6sNckDpo1tbsKI3srLxsaUrtSCWQqnjOSIyu3n7TXQrvzHieHXO7sc-Nxk-CQ_cs/s1600/IceClimbingonHogPen.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPsnE_c3x1JlN7WTLSp2YfiutmrWw1nFBEg6LAoDV93zIBHGbj_oVM3YeZHZ1k3iorLvUNvUC7iEB6sNckDpo1tbsKI3srLxsaUrtSCWQqnjOSIyu3n7TXQrvzHieHXO7sc-Nxk-CQ_cs/s320/IceClimbingonHogPen.PNG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ice Climbing on Hog Pen</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIZSQcUr9JbSThxJxQoyOGHQHkecEBhmWzuMatGOCPQxIIuw2xftQPCyvzuxaKxhN88ObUb86LOsXKSgqxuHHT3INAuCdiefHVL58lUqfM1w_GWsW88KkmV3Sych41d5kdwLW6baC3nz8/s1600/IMAG0161.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIZSQcUr9JbSThxJxQoyOGHQHkecEBhmWzuMatGOCPQxIIuw2xftQPCyvzuxaKxhN88ObUb86LOsXKSgqxuHHT3INAuCdiefHVL58lUqfM1w_GWsW88KkmV3Sych41d5kdwLW6baC3nz8/s200/IMAG0161.jpg" width="112" /></a>When we started our decent of Hog Pen there were about 6 guys with ice picks climbing the ice on the back side rocks. They looked at us...we looked at them...and we just smiled at each other. No doubt an exchange of some sort of screwed up understanding.<br />
<br />
Our shivering journey to the bottom of the earth was interrupted by some vehicles taking it easy. It was so cold I didn't worry one bit about heating up my rims and popping a tire. We rode together all the way to Hwy 180 and made the turn toward Brasstown Bald before Gary and Wojtek caught us. By then the climbing had begun again and Curt was suffering. He climbed as long as he could before finally pulling the plug and getting in the car. I was really proud for him for being brave enough to come out there.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUhQPwvZQpLYhhwFqbkeJ8yXT4XiNGYkoAzDUoEd8YP8iNdHU3CAtoeAosW_8KPzW2TPmhWHlhOuZrzLHIXvV2_wSrfmZlf6R-4Pdt3bCGw3MWg6Y_PciLLongRI_6FvGlVL8x6RfO1E4/s1600/IMG_6488.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUhQPwvZQpLYhhwFqbkeJ8yXT4XiNGYkoAzDUoEd8YP8iNdHU3CAtoeAosW_8KPzW2TPmhWHlhOuZrzLHIXvV2_wSrfmZlf6R-4Pdt3bCGw3MWg6Y_PciLLongRI_6FvGlVL8x6RfO1E4/s320/IMG_6488.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wojtek Wysocki, our European Connection.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When we reached the top of Jack's Gap we learned that he'd done it. Wojtek had actually ridden his bike all the way to the top of Hog Pen. I was amazed and impressed he had done it. It took him 1 hour and 15 mins.<br />
Pretty cool.<br />
He spent the rest of the trip filming our ride and talking about all the cool stuff he was allowed to demo. He also let us know he would be heading to the Cross Worlds and hanging out with Sven Nys. I seemed to be the only guy who's up on CycloCross news so I was probably the only one who knew how cool that was.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDX0RZBAKSkZ6jsh0m0D_xA1mJZnJP_qUf7qRhhp8BdZbjf6g7pvdLnDTK96tWJ9-21GhFAbIiJjDH4c9UT0BNHVwiEYcm8TsjpP-1eiHIgD_lERBPYrvCa9LMNd5IPzZuZ63BNtNgLaM/s1600/IMG_6490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDX0RZBAKSkZ6jsh0m0D_xA1mJZnJP_qUf7qRhhp8BdZbjf6g7pvdLnDTK96tWJ9-21GhFAbIiJjDH4c9UT0BNHVwiEYcm8TsjpP-1eiHIgD_lERBPYrvCa9LMNd5IPzZuZ63BNtNgLaM/s320/IMG_6490.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trace Nabors, David Latty, Stephen Sisk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We made our way around to the Unicoi climb where I decided to empty the tank before our decent back into Helen. Turns out my fuel gauge is rusty and my tank was already empty. But I gave a good strong effort for my part and brought us to the top in short order. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2WCVlQdjBMJyXWRyP8zTPJZdVVn4xVLRmx5gBY6qL_Z0jogpmjzSi_cWILlOFXG2vhGEa2t71nCFPUeAPNZyXh9EykKZISmCD8w-l1rkwMFWW7kp0zykUVWfNeqiejv7gvjkuo7ZORrM/s1600/ninja+cyclist.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="144" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2WCVlQdjBMJyXWRyP8zTPJZdVVn4xVLRmx5gBY6qL_Z0jogpmjzSi_cWILlOFXG2vhGEa2t71nCFPUeAPNZyXh9EykKZISmCD8w-l1rkwMFWW7kp0zykUVWfNeqiejv7gvjkuo7ZORrM/s200/ninja+cyclist.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
After a short break we began our decent. Trace and I agreed that the Unicoi and Woody's Gap descents are the best of the six Gaps. Not so steep you would even touch your brakes but curvy enough to lean in and slice up the road like a Ninja Cyclist! <br />
<br />
We all enjoyed the ride down and came back together for the final miles. By that time the temperature was a sunny 35 degrees.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjchhzia-stYBK-iYD1nK4Orn5wZk0rwMPli-r-VlXnpCwHPBc7Jm033Ke9dXbPMsB1lbhCAyIYAIodxHyDEc3J1I0KbglWjda_IBY2sIY_vI2kIhqnQLUWA3qn_LMkF7tpwJ4_r3FvAmk/s1600/IMG_6493.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjchhzia-stYBK-iYD1nK4Orn5wZk0rwMPli-r-VlXnpCwHPBc7Jm033Ke9dXbPMsB1lbhCAyIYAIodxHyDEc3J1I0KbglWjda_IBY2sIY_vI2kIhqnQLUWA3qn_LMkF7tpwJ4_r3FvAmk/s640/IMG_6493.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Brave Ones return.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Qt4ptQ3YBOnmjQDejlfafB8O2n-AvQZ1r0wk2ipl3CzVQ8Hy6ID2QB-6yPsaDTuT7NlP3HC3nKa9sANfF2NGPNp_iF0qGcq-PS3KXbrQOsdo5oTPdXvmvA8DyGW84WfweUQbvkvnt50/s1600/ZIKE_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Qt4ptQ3YBOnmjQDejlfafB8O2n-AvQZ1r0wk2ipl3CzVQ8Hy6ID2QB-6yPsaDTuT7NlP3HC3nKa9sANfF2NGPNp_iF0qGcq-PS3KXbrQOsdo5oTPdXvmvA8DyGW84WfweUQbvkvnt50/s200/ZIKE_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
When we got back Wjotek had laid out some really messed up looking bikes for us to play with. David Shabat quickly jumped on the Hog Pen stepper and stepped his way to a stand still on the hill behind the church. Very funny stuff. I gave him a 10.<br />
<br />
I tried out a bike that required snow skiing muscles I have never developed. It took some instruction to get it figured out but once I did it was fun. David pulled a groin muscle when he tried it. Again...very funny stuff. Thanks Wjotek for adding something fresh to our ride!<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpwKwe5XVrgwKgdltMx0afEC59JkqrBlE4Yhrjc4X5yf-XuCmelWffK_VccnArqve1LxgDNKJwaO9g-p1OABKjV258cq8lGHsspJVLnb2ZBIT9tcCNEq3uImigyZOR_-S4QkatCefqYH8/s1600/2011+Lt.+Governors+Century+224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="135" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpwKwe5XVrgwKgdltMx0afEC59JkqrBlE4Yhrjc4X5yf-XuCmelWffK_VccnArqve1LxgDNKJwaO9g-p1OABKjV258cq8lGHsspJVLnb2ZBIT9tcCNEq3uImigyZOR_-S4QkatCefqYH8/s200/2011+Lt.+Governors+Century+224.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and Gary McCarthy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I don't have any photos of him because... well... he was taking the photos but our driver was Gary McCarthy. If you don't know Gary then you are sorry. Very sorry. Because he is a blast to have around. He drove all the way up there to take care of us and that's what he did. I can't imagine how this trip would have turned out if Gary hadn't volunteered to baby sit us. We all owe you Gary! Thanks for doing it!<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://youtu.be/4G7hBmQZsWg">Wjotek's Wild Ride</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://youtu.be/gWJDe8jx_tM">Riding with Friends</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://youtu.be/KrHGvGC8btA">Ice Climbing Video</a> (The actual guys that day)<br />
<br />
And so ended another adventure in the GAPS. 2013 could now officially start. It's time for new plans, new goals, and new adventures. I've signed up for my first one. I'll be doing the <a href="http://granfondony.com/">Gran Fondo New York</a> in May.<br />
Who's...your...daddy!!<br />
Rest assured I'll be taking a ton of pictures and video. It's not Europe but it's a start.<br />
<br />
Check back on my home page here for the listings of rides and races as they become available.<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading!<br />
<br />
Chad Hayes Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00306386622733315527noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655692694530611569.post-71871028259254635462012-12-24T21:39:00.000-05:002012-12-24T21:39:00.559-05:002012 Mayan Last Ride on Earth<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC9ORduCWB9i4wYrWHCRseJwATGgCcLfB23gEz7PK1IAcZh8kR8DxmUREy7-S7z-NToYTpyYRUYL0ATxNuOu6kRn0vDn00FB5YCwpehyXprEwfI3AV28-bjtjdl0EosW7UIz1mZEF-dSo/s1600/winterdreaming22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC9ORduCWB9i4wYrWHCRseJwATGgCcLfB23gEz7PK1IAcZh8kR8DxmUREy7-S7z-NToYTpyYRUYL0ATxNuOu6kRn0vDn00FB5YCwpehyXprEwfI3AV28-bjtjdl0EosW7UIz1mZEF-dSo/s320/winterdreaming22.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
These are the days when a cyclist gets desperate. The time change makes riding after work impossible. The cold weather doesn't help. The holiday happenings fill any open time slots you thought you had to train. Holiday food plays a mean spirited roll in your calorie intake and your choice of premium fuel. And spinning on the trainer? Well. That is <u>not</u> as motivational as spinning through the forest or down a long country road now is it?<br />
<br />
So when rides are organized that happen to fall perfectly into cracks of opportunity I am granted in life I figure I have a manly man obligation to ride them. No matter how insane or absurd the ride may be. At this time of the year... I must go! I need it!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQye58cVZ5S1uIDcGA-FZ8ALGMqjRBtjO5mNZHesYUgwuuyqOyGEf51x_ZIyb8i9vbJ7UG8L2_IchUYjvWbapg6WbhrxnQQzL0AVbNHq4bk4wf5rm5_rwZz03XPZGpPt0853ktq5sV1N8/s1600/mayan-calendar23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQye58cVZ5S1uIDcGA-FZ8ALGMqjRBtjO5mNZHesYUgwuuyqOyGEf51x_ZIyb8i9vbJ7UG8L2_IchUYjvWbapg6WbhrxnQQzL0AVbNHq4bk4wf5rm5_rwZz03XPZGpPt0853ktq5sV1N8/s200/mayan-calendar23.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
And so comes the "Last Ride on Earth" organized by the good folks in UC3 SORBA and Taylor Graham. Drawing from the impending doom forecast by our Mayan friends down in Mexico (back when there were Mayans, which should tell you something about their predictions) my friends created a reason to ride that won't ever occur again. At least not this month. An apocalyptic night ride with lights. My children like to call them "Stealth Missions". They graciously opened it up to all riders and not just SORBA/IMBA members of which I am. But I do believe that non-members could be subject to woeful scorn in the highest degree because unlike most Unions we operate in the woods, and on trails... where there's no collective bargaining. Just scorn. And I personally believe that if you can't help with the trails physically because of your schedule or something then you should help monetarily by donating to <a href="http://www.sorba.org/">SORBA/IMBA</a>.<br />
<br />
When the day of the ride came the weather turned mean. Georgia's own wintry apocalypse blew in on us and brought temps in the 20's and 40 MPH winds that made it feel like 10 degrees. The epic nature of this ride was escalating. I truly didn't think too many people would show up. Many lesser men chose to ride earlier in the day when the temperature was better and they could actually see the trees blown down over the trail <i>before</i> they ran into them. Obviously this flies in the face of our mindless, edge of reason plan to ride when no sane person would. I have to admit, the worse the weather got during the day the more excited I became. And I wasn't alone.<br />
<br />
When I got off work at 7:30pm I grabbed a Chic-fil-a sandwich and headed over to the <a href="http://www.goingthedistance.org/images/BaseCamp-Nancytown.PDF">Nancytown</a> parking lot in Cornelia, Georgia. I got there at 8pm and there was only one truck. It was Science Mega-Man Trent Smith and a friend. They had been out there since 4pm and were hungry. I bid them farwell and began changing into my battle gear.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYi23t-mu7Um9shyphenhyphenx9q8KlqoS3fvBtJNA2JVg5Bbe7gs3w_y1eLfVplGA6ehToIrystnYmoiZSy_ARBb-SVqNveIDDa5bdo6LGcXeiDU5vkDpAhrIpWNaQELI3_ZholRSdB90mP9fPslw/s1600/IMAG0077.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYi23t-mu7Um9shyphenhyphenx9q8KlqoS3fvBtJNA2JVg5Bbe7gs3w_y1eLfVplGA6ehToIrystnYmoiZSy_ARBb-SVqNveIDDa5bdo6LGcXeiDU5vkDpAhrIpWNaQELI3_ZholRSdB90mP9fPslw/s640/IMAG0077.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Last Day on Earth Ride, 9PM, Dec. 21st, 2012</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Soon my truck was surrounded by others just as crazy and excited as I was. I didn't get everyone's name but I did manage to get everyone in a picture or two. Taylor Graham ran around thanking guys for showing up. We had 13 riders and one mascot named Roxy. I filmed the prayer before we started.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dw-7F_z3hNWW5UPxhO4YwkX1JnQtsQ8M0PeEyiVSm2wKIc5Kz9Y38FEdav3o1K9_2g1VnxNKO3D-_e8jiKO3w' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR75XK-a0PzUSqeOYgo-7ZdsS7p1lMr6Ke3jzshM0Nhc8v7GHl6QaSlIPmplknfB3NIR8WdD9zDVeABKW61HSko-G8zLClrH1W9H_aUgqes1WCvDM252DMbHfGKI8sBU8uCKlc7PEIMRQ/s1600/IMAG0069.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR75XK-a0PzUSqeOYgo-7ZdsS7p1lMr6Ke3jzshM0Nhc8v7GHl6QaSlIPmplknfB3NIR8WdD9zDVeABKW61HSko-G8zLClrH1W9H_aUgqes1WCvDM252DMbHfGKI8sBU8uCKlc7PEIMRQ/s320/IMAG0069.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
And off we went. On a trail I'd never been on. With hills I couldn't see to gauge my effort. My eyes watered and blurred my vision. But I wasn't alone.<br />
When I looked back on occasion I was treated to the sight of all the guys snaking through the trails with their lights. We dismounted several times for trees and stopped after being redirected completely by a fallen tree. At this point there were only 5 of us off the front and rather than get cold again we decided to press on.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFLP2H7V3TxieXGUZxBVmoe0EE_DQdB7MTiSJFaLVuvrZMI8irUVQlswGHuPZwh0H1lLmL01848lu_Bj51UEzBELsSO7JfpNcGXqilUcLJlqH1QxReS3bXDrN2LCtHfujEU46v7TNivBk/s1600/IMAG0057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFLP2H7V3TxieXGUZxBVmoe0EE_DQdB7MTiSJFaLVuvrZMI8irUVQlswGHuPZwh0H1lLmL01848lu_Bj51UEzBELsSO7JfpNcGXqilUcLJlqH1QxReS3bXDrN2LCtHfujEU46v7TNivBk/s200/IMAG0057.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU4_jT9WttspyCZHXnVu4ZjoMEyZeEVaPQNEo_FsZpg67W1gvjUeuUUQ3_oRrOOcXav1nEr0mI8OkgEgCuVjE5L-4fkujYnMJbyC617_5TiQlzmRXR2q0aagoU4QH2g1xTSnLEmmEyI-M/s1600/IMAG0061.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU4_jT9WttspyCZHXnVu4ZjoMEyZeEVaPQNEo_FsZpg67W1gvjUeuUUQ3_oRrOOcXav1nEr0mI8OkgEgCuVjE5L-4fkujYnMJbyC617_5TiQlzmRXR2q0aagoU4QH2g1xTSnLEmmEyI-M/s200/IMAG0061.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
Sammy Arial stayed behind to guide the rest of the group around the tree. We rode and talked and climbed for another 20 minutes. After a long downhill we popped out onto a road. I was completely lost. But everyone seemed to be content with our location so I wasn't worried. Little by little everyone started popping out of the woods.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7JHVq5U3i1dS28pEIGvy5iYEfmFq1fvChRtUA2exQDpZApeIe-4v53_ILjU9FMb1cnB-kLqkBzw5Zmbv0hTdTPxbBZRkD-0lVvnIxXhohWrC8w4yEITlYH6Rv8Z7ROgTuGgC4S6HDh3w/s1600/IMAG0056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7JHVq5U3i1dS28pEIGvy5iYEfmFq1fvChRtUA2exQDpZApeIe-4v53_ILjU9FMb1cnB-kLqkBzw5Zmbv0hTdTPxbBZRkD-0lVvnIxXhohWrC8w4yEITlYH6Rv8Z7ROgTuGgC4S6HDh3w/s200/IMAG0056.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
Everyone accept Ben. I counted 12 riders. We were missing Ben. He was with our leading group when we left Sammy but evidently he got dropped on a climb and took a wrong turn. I felt terrible. Taylor quickly rode back up the trail and I instinctively followed him. We climbed all the way back up to the first cross road and as we did I began regretting my choice to come. It wasn't very smart for me to be there. I didn't know the trails. If Taylor and I split up to search I'd be just as lost as Ben is.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY2gzSrLEFlMi8oSgaHkVS8WnxPxC_JZDXtBhKwLOCvVnRVg-dewYQE14CBp3Tns1Xknd_cMpWpSzD-PZoZyhzSbKkRNqzioO57bsMgQPDjur6coh1FwEISMBo6uEsyYJpDnqKhj7V4g8/s1600/IMAG0064.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY2gzSrLEFlMi8oSgaHkVS8WnxPxC_JZDXtBhKwLOCvVnRVg-dewYQE14CBp3Tns1Xknd_cMpWpSzD-PZoZyhzSbKkRNqzioO57bsMgQPDjur6coh1FwEISMBo6uEsyYJpDnqKhj7V4g8/s320/IMAG0064.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCwGtocxbH5v9BWEWs6NYRtxhpLz9IuHuXt0rmt9mRfWxgA0kW-PGLUo5Ct00O6VzCOMFw40bi9b9QXKdEHU9AmmttGzjGV57-Se3whZ_1FZ8yUEVcYSvYT4mjVy22LRpeV9vZV5-rcMM/s1600/IMAG0059.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCwGtocxbH5v9BWEWs6NYRtxhpLz9IuHuXt0rmt9mRfWxgA0kW-PGLUo5Ct00O6VzCOMFw40bi9b9QXKdEHU9AmmttGzjGV57-Se3whZ_1FZ8yUEVcYSvYT4mjVy22LRpeV9vZV5-rcMM/s400/IMAG0059.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZjMHks4u5HWRaP6PBt6Bgm0-RaeAXJIrkvZSPyGqm4y_95SEvh9G_1s4g68LrfFY37vC14_L7AsPqHgZqNlbok9lWLmtmeOCnZtutRO1wKAd-FJ1WHY3UI0Ruwzdqm3aNZM4dibG7_Qk/s1600/IMAG0062.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZjMHks4u5HWRaP6PBt6Bgm0-RaeAXJIrkvZSPyGqm4y_95SEvh9G_1s4g68LrfFY37vC14_L7AsPqHgZqNlbok9lWLmtmeOCnZtutRO1wKAd-FJ1WHY3UI0Ruwzdqm3aNZM4dibG7_Qk/s200/IMAG0062.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
We climbed and yelled Ben's name for what seemed like an hour. Taylor mentioned that there was no way Ben could hear us with the way the wind was blowing. But I kept thinking about how it would suck to be lost out here in the National Forest with one head light and no meat on my bones (Ben is really skinny). We kept yelling anyway.<br />
I told Taylor that I could at least ride back the way we came and sweep the course. It was the easiest choice by far. Taylor had to ride up Tower Mountain. If Ben wasn't there he'd have to get on Dicks Hill Pkwy and ride back down to Nancytown. Turns out that's exactly what he did.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipQESYkwCXEKx63nNcZZBpYwT-MPma7Pyf6CbpeLQEAi2r1r_ki0z9msQoZPL4dZ5BDbhTZToXvt-z1FJ1lFRj8Naam_jgGRv5rC2ZdEL-Q-IU08yCQkpw75-GRwhmoSo-qDx1U6Tck6I/s1600/Craig+Tinsley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipQESYkwCXEKx63nNcZZBpYwT-MPma7Pyf6CbpeLQEAi2r1r_ki0z9msQoZPL4dZ5BDbhTZToXvt-z1FJ1lFRj8Naam_jgGRv5rC2ZdEL-Q-IU08yCQkpw75-GRwhmoSo-qDx1U6Tck6I/s200/Craig+Tinsley.jpg" width="189" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Craig Tinsley</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I made my way back to the parking lot and found our wayward Ben there with several of the other guys. They had looped their way back around and were laughing about the adventure.<br />
<br />
Taylor showed up and checked on everyone then headed out to join the few remaining riders who wanted more. From what I gather he and Bill Mashburn stayed out there until 12 midnight. Very nice.<br />
In hindsight I should have gone with Taylor since he knew the trails so well. But everyone else was done and I had an hour drive ahead of me so I chickened out. But I got 2 hours of intense riding in on the last day of earth and felt really great. Everyone was smiling and happy as we packed up to go thaw out.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMyvsknyjsJ3-Fchie6UlYc7FUk3KvLbFSV77yFjRH3HDUf0fLIIDZsi242PeRTRMotcClLnnABYk2GceyJ5w-gpnqAI0x2RZoQrdhZiMaAyDVq1Yr2O2AExfp_pEXQL8qHSc3MH1ImV8/s1600/Bill+Mashburn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMyvsknyjsJ3-Fchie6UlYc7FUk3KvLbFSV77yFjRH3HDUf0fLIIDZsi242PeRTRMotcClLnnABYk2GceyJ5w-gpnqAI0x2RZoQrdhZiMaAyDVq1Yr2O2AExfp_pEXQL8qHSc3MH1ImV8/s400/Bill+Mashburn.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bill Mashburn</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmurcYbqm68WvzG2oK-ezbyAg9eCQ_G0FBeEhFDKEWSdrulGF_NbEiCnmzpmCtnkw1RfNfWwxdL2JqN1nsUmeZyZIeG2DjTabrX6RiOw45MzLOlFHtDonC7grNvkP3h-kpD5t5d_Q1VA4/s1600/IMAG0060.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmurcYbqm68WvzG2oK-ezbyAg9eCQ_G0FBeEhFDKEWSdrulGF_NbEiCnmzpmCtnkw1RfNfWwxdL2JqN1nsUmeZyZIeG2DjTabrX6RiOw45MzLOlFHtDonC7grNvkP3h-kpD5t5d_Q1VA4/s400/IMAG0060.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1VIGxHznd8m89efBe9vF9ZdgvDOzQLLjYSKx5LoVcmJR2z5Z2kje6dwkIPpn27Qroir_tJe3s8ksVdNUXZGUXdjixrzYq3Mlz5R7WMdZb3jLiS0H-0GfxGeWAqa20EPHlT7p6JvoTXmA/s1600/IMAG0081.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1VIGxHznd8m89efBe9vF9ZdgvDOzQLLjYSKx5LoVcmJR2z5Z2kje6dwkIPpn27Qroir_tJe3s8ksVdNUXZGUXdjixrzYq3Mlz5R7WMdZb3jLiS0H-0GfxGeWAqa20EPHlT7p6JvoTXmA/s400/IMAG0081.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVrsnhpC6JeD-cyiOpncxzb2v9x9lHPXYHm13iwlMlsu0QLZ2EF8rou8tNpH-ayeCa-8b5Q57wB-SCgsx4l-2idiOLkHYpFpH9o6FnBQS-_XESR5TfJjSKDW3dwO0JNdAQfpHfyr8JUto/s1600/IMAG0080.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVrsnhpC6JeD-cyiOpncxzb2v9x9lHPXYHm13iwlMlsu0QLZ2EF8rou8tNpH-ayeCa-8b5Q57wB-SCgsx4l-2idiOLkHYpFpH9o6FnBQS-_XESR5TfJjSKDW3dwO0JNdAQfpHfyr8JUto/s400/IMAG0080.jpg" width="381" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoN15Z1i3HTkjEIfdr76Kz5pfR3Q8mnLvxKzzyUpdGT_EUKexKp06fjMnEIxAGdGT9KqQtEd6R8dTHRibI61rlpHfcI1AzzhkJkqIXdfoseX4FQZfPbOfnP_FIcOxnqJh07G6ZenUnfaQ/s1600/IMAG0078.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoN15Z1i3HTkjEIfdr76Kz5pfR3Q8mnLvxKzzyUpdGT_EUKexKp06fjMnEIxAGdGT9KqQtEd6R8dTHRibI61rlpHfcI1AzzhkJkqIXdfoseX4FQZfPbOfnP_FIcOxnqJh07G6ZenUnfaQ/s400/IMAG0078.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFWqDZs8SIE1J0J81seEl8iivKkapq_VhXjOASD85g69iGRKyjVHuvWJFvN_OCVeNPaDZJ5B0b8Pqg6YY-OhGrZCqH-CKxAq3khyUEFA-VoXhq9e1AJbt9-afKcXyQUARwxp6LJrwN00Y/s1600/IMAG0073.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFWqDZs8SIE1J0J81seEl8iivKkapq_VhXjOASD85g69iGRKyjVHuvWJFvN_OCVeNPaDZJ5B0b8Pqg6YY-OhGrZCqH-CKxAq3khyUEFA-VoXhq9e1AJbt9-afKcXyQUARwxp6LJrwN00Y/s400/IMAG0073.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMEf2KRSY7BiW1KY1iKvzGqDshej9FylIf4oCkZtMFtWTbsVn9nHgndq8N46MFaJu6lFKvEAbUGk0mXVePzbD4rzg_buIYEVqDTw2vApzqwPh6JHWizKnIfDINkM1DS1FUx5ynmVxKsnI/s1600/IMAG0070.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMEf2KRSY7BiW1KY1iKvzGqDshej9FylIf4oCkZtMFtWTbsVn9nHgndq8N46MFaJu6lFKvEAbUGk0mXVePzbD4rzg_buIYEVqDTw2vApzqwPh6JHWizKnIfDINkM1DS1FUx5ynmVxKsnI/s400/IMAG0070.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Merry Christmas everyone!</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1pcCWXBdWgPHZHokz7WfrVUw57q-MCPJ6UVunbq0ZBvozwOLh2t7Ge_pYTKONUeOGNfGDJ6OQOwI-zZ3OoTvDR7C-yI-O-R3Loy0XVvMibz1-RsnYnGQ1bwKECwMB5h2vZ-Lrf6Q4nEc/s1600/merry_christmas_reindeer_05_h.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1pcCWXBdWgPHZHokz7WfrVUw57q-MCPJ6UVunbq0ZBvozwOLh2t7Ge_pYTKONUeOGNfGDJ6OQOwI-zZ3OoTvDR7C-yI-O-R3Loy0XVvMibz1-RsnYnGQ1bwKECwMB5h2vZ-Lrf6Q4nEc/s400/merry_christmas_reindeer_05_h.gif" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00306386622733315527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655692694530611569.post-56790568867928797752012-11-27T15:33:00.002-05:002012-11-27T15:33:30.448-05:00The Road to Nowhere - Bryson City, NC<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRlx7j5H6RZwYGkZAQKKpDm-HAig6CBAAA-Uo86HO9eSlzbHeB2qbqUsxQsCBxx360YmAQLZjBIhN_yQ1zEY1BR1EI1WuiNoLfYGm9oOSj4kw9lKHNZo-QTzhTpVQBPsbkWbbMLuaVFv0/s1600/IMAG0265.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRlx7j5H6RZwYGkZAQKKpDm-HAig6CBAAA-Uo86HO9eSlzbHeB2qbqUsxQsCBxx360YmAQLZjBIhN_yQ1zEY1BR1EI1WuiNoLfYGm9oOSj4kw9lKHNZo-QTzhTpVQBPsbkWbbMLuaVFv0/s640/IMAG0265.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The past few years my family and other loved ones have traveled to Cherokee, North Carolina for some post Thanksgiving relaxation. Each and every person there...relaxes. Accept, I'm told, for me. I tend to want to use the getaway to get away on my bike. Everyone heads up on Friday but I have to work (Car Business) so I drive up that evening in the dark.<br />
<br />
Usually I come prepared to ride the great trails at Tsali. I've written about it in a past blog post <a href="http://chadsnews.blogspot.com/2011/11/thanksgiving-in-cherokee-and-tsali.html">HERE</a>.<br />
This year I wanted to try something new. At first I planned to take the Ritchey Breakaway bike and ride a 30 mile loop I worked out on the <a href="http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/155653027?">Blue Ridge Parkway</a>. But I've recently converted it to a cross bike. So I searched for some new trails that connect to fire roads or something. That's when I stumbled onto the "<a href="http://www.greatsmokies.com/roadnowhere.html">Road to Nowhere</a>". It's an unfinished road that leads out of Bryson City. At the end of the pavement there's a long tunnel and multiple trails.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyYsF_myAhQfCMe7-jBDlcZibyKHMMBEupg0_XS8UaLBjj-xmcMh4wE50B0T3akP7pRjYgBGdqdS86DbdAEB0fKIFQWSQomz-cv3-kP2KlVt1ZH3wHqrf2coIFWY4-1NstbDNbySmxXAk/s1600/IMAG0242.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyYsF_myAhQfCMe7-jBDlcZibyKHMMBEupg0_XS8UaLBjj-xmcMh4wE50B0T3akP7pRjYgBGdqdS86DbdAEB0fKIFQWSQomz-cv3-kP2KlVt1ZH3wHqrf2coIFWY4-1NstbDNbySmxXAk/s320/IMAG0242.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
A plan was born. This was my plan: Ride out of Bryson City (near a coffee shop) and climb to the tunnel. Then run the trails because it says you're not supposed to ride them. And I would never advocate riding a trail when the Forest Service doesn't allow it. No sir, not me. Not even if I'm the only one up there and I have a perfectly capable cyclo-cross bike to ride.<br />
I arrived in Bryson City at 7:30AM. It was 26 degrees. My eyes watered just thinking about it. I ended up parking in front of <a href="http://www.brysoncitybicycles.com/">Bryson City Bicycles</a>. I didn't know it was there but figured there can't be a better place to start a ride than a bike shop. The folks in the restaurant beside it were gracious enough to let me use the restroom. The smell of bacon and coffee and pancakes was almost too much to bear. But I stayed focused and went back out to the freezing car.<br />
<br />
As I rode out of town the lady that owns Mountain Perks stepped out to stare at me. After all, I was wintered up in cold weather armor and riding down the road to nowhere. It seemed as though she and I were the only ones in the whole town. As I slowly rode by I put my hand up and said the first thing that came to mind... "I'll be right back!"<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsrTGIYcVpm00XQ93Eonctokv2HNVo_RxbGRTW1PoRex-9XCQbOclvEbhs4t_3i0GPnzE_JWZItHdHL4SurFpsewvjzCzwjDR6QF4fFik-lhayz7zoHHei3zpL61oiokNhlDIBbli7FXA/s1600/IMAG0243.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsrTGIYcVpm00XQ93Eonctokv2HNVo_RxbGRTW1PoRex-9XCQbOclvEbhs4t_3i0GPnzE_JWZItHdHL4SurFpsewvjzCzwjDR6QF4fFik-lhayz7zoHHei3zpL61oiokNhlDIBbli7FXA/s320/IMAG0243.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLsUbt4i7bLv0gGYy3xePwihtxMJxwLW_EQos9tt2Wil8WSp2axOOTQyYt8Cvg6O73p-tRxjKSrYXIgSdgcIBdSYC_e_OjGtHjV4pRr-pcm6GlKi7s2Ck7LL1td52BJvbWt3mxrW5yP50/s1600/IMAG0245.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLsUbt4i7bLv0gGYy3xePwihtxMJxwLW_EQos9tt2Wil8WSp2axOOTQyYt8Cvg6O73p-tRxjKSrYXIgSdgcIBdSYC_e_OjGtHjV4pRr-pcm6GlKi7s2Ck7LL1td52BJvbWt3mxrW5yP50/s320/IMAG0245.jpg" width="180" /></a>The climb begins right away. You climb an average gradient of around 5% with pitches to 12% but they don't last that long. You can see the top when it gets that steep. It only took me about a mile to figure out I was riding toward the local high school. They were the Swain County Maroon Devils. I new this because I rode past at least 20 signs obviously painted by cheerleaders who were demanding the Devils squash, smash, and otherwise incinerate their opponent. If I were trying to accomplish something great with my time these signs would have provided me some motivation. Otherwise they were just funny.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy7DwNh8BuXCML1E7twsKeuYLaWSzgbxjyJQmFOWvaoIeSSdDhWi-ovVEit98aS1o_InzfsuabfmGGeJFMmBhJ23WnAQMZZ2SPHkPwutE4Q9apdArVsg_Y5q1OCs0UGnJjp3tSmiQFpvU/s1600/IMAG0247.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy7DwNh8BuXCML1E7twsKeuYLaWSzgbxjyJQmFOWvaoIeSSdDhWi-ovVEit98aS1o_InzfsuabfmGGeJFMmBhJ23WnAQMZZ2SPHkPwutE4Q9apdArVsg_Y5q1OCs0UGnJjp3tSmiQFpvU/s200/IMAG0247.jpg" width="200" /></a>I rode past mountain side cabins and driveways that probably lead to plush mountain homes with warm fireplaces. I thought about that as I pushed the gears. When I reached the entrance to the National Park I stopped to take a picture of the Road to Nowhere sign. It didn't turn out very well because of the sun light so you'll have to trust me.<br />
Two little old men in a Chevy S10 came puttering up the mountain as I took the photo. We both wondered where the other was going. I never saw them again...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwrVfoz76zn6KUEyTHAWJa8qVAbGK_znvcr6WiRh2_xs44cmAimG2I2z149vKUaXdFAEl2i-AJByzQ6Crzqiw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQWK90JYIFFEtyT4ZZvjxzkFoqbofhfDEUuckx5PYJHPmJS9QjhqdiTOLm5NcSYX6LpwyQUyw2OWEZ2h97vmbmxNC54_pJSOeeLRl63IB4yx-B1aqOMq86shMvb3m-ezmODhqdrf1wpjc/s1600/IMAG0248.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQWK90JYIFFEtyT4ZZvjxzkFoqbofhfDEUuckx5PYJHPmJS9QjhqdiTOLm5NcSYX6LpwyQUyw2OWEZ2h97vmbmxNC54_pJSOeeLRl63IB4yx-B1aqOMq86shMvb3m-ezmODhqdrf1wpjc/s320/IMAG0248.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The ride up got better every minute. It was just me and the sun until I realized I had another partner... my shadow. I rode along looking out over the valley and then noticed how much rock had been blasted to create the road. I watched my shadow for 10 minutes before it occurred to me to take a picture. It's a real artsy thing to do, which isn't me. When I reviewed my photos with Lisa back at the cabin we agreed it didn't meet the definition of "artsy fartsy" so I could use it in a cycling blog.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0f5ucO72gOb-X8jwFzbTAx-ZJizC21XnnoaiAHe56KfP1CaYvjcvdOh8fb_OXXb_qzg6UiZNInwA75tN5iUSazhRjNeS_z_DXRPdtZVLQVViE-p3Dcw6KlgcrKiNbO-TrOFS2wVwYVjM/s1600/IMAG0261.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0f5ucO72gOb-X8jwFzbTAx-ZJizC21XnnoaiAHe56KfP1CaYvjcvdOh8fb_OXXb_qzg6UiZNInwA75tN5iUSazhRjNeS_z_DXRPdtZVLQVViE-p3Dcw6KlgcrKiNbO-TrOFS2wVwYVjM/s200/IMAG0261.jpg" width="200" /></a>The climb itself was a lot like riding in the Gaps back in Georgia. You climb for a while and then descend and then climb some more. The view was great the whole time mostly because all the leaves were off the trees. There were several cleared viewing areas along the way. The climbing kept me warm and the descents took my breath. Just like the Gaps. Only I have to admit that the views were better. It's around 7 miles of this until you reach the tunnel.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dy7QAFIP5E8OBk9iaog8a-l6o4TxKsVVZ9q0BuWlZLV1zm8jMvvq31DhHU4ybxx1FjwlZc1uDpY0svoQstDBA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqlsND4g1A0XYsfGtOE-7zTKk44v7P1kk6f8-eU2ebjgEhOt2q5x4mFEE_5FvoV-wdC4GoCxS5TJbrXihZmAIMxVHy0QqW1cAzXb_xQ5dcmi0YflJ-pRryLkAHgLI-0cFjuPMt14KhY_4/s1600/IMAG0269.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqlsND4g1A0XYsfGtOE-7zTKk44v7P1kk6f8-eU2ebjgEhOt2q5x4mFEE_5FvoV-wdC4GoCxS5TJbrXihZmAIMxVHy0QqW1cAzXb_xQ5dcmi0YflJ-pRryLkAHgLI-0cFjuPMt14KhY_4/s200/IMAG0269.jpg" width="200" /></a>I'll tell you what's funny about riding knobby cross tires on the pavement. They don't go down hill very fast. I never even used my brakes. It was kind of nice. I felt very safe on the decents. The road drops down one final time and crosses a concrete bridge. Then you climb up to the tunnel. There's a place to park and some cars were already there. I listened for the occupants but couldn't here any. Just to be sure I looked to see if any of the cars looked like they had been there all night. Nope, no frost on the windows. Those people are here somewhere.?<br />
<br />
The tunnel was... spooky. I stopped short of it because I wanted to make a video of my very first time through it... not a pre-scouted reality TV type of video. When you watch it there's some things you should know. First, it really was pitch black. The only way I kept my bearings was to keep looking at the light at the end. Second, I was actually worried. Really. But not until the lights went out. Then all the worst horror movie thoughts ran through my head. Were there holes in the tunnel? Were there bears in the tunnel? Were there banjo pickers in the tunnel? It's probably why I kept talking. So everything in the tunnel would know I was videoing. Here... watch for yourself.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dy43iJ6Ej-pDgDTZcEb4fCGDF_aUiCUSOlNpMJ0LKbNAOvIMtpm1-Dqnbdket_4Tsetm26FphwWtYhf3LNNIA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimKvQrWbqOchQdbtttxIlHOPsexFV0pBTgJ4zqDQJZzuCG_SEekI_Q2sgC14RoxVqr5AGw1G7DJD1zn-ksdlorLp50HxNG9ZyPPBAmC0j9ypdaeCO-_pQoD88sY_HsuCsq47wZiUTfNxg/s1600/IMAG0271.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimKvQrWbqOchQdbtttxIlHOPsexFV0pBTgJ4zqDQJZzuCG_SEekI_Q2sgC14RoxVqr5AGw1G7DJD1zn-ksdlorLp50HxNG9ZyPPBAmC0j9ypdaeCO-_pQoD88sY_HsuCsq47wZiUTfNxg/s200/IMAG0271.jpg" width="112" /></a>After making it through the tunnel I felt great. Invincible even!<br />
When the road ended abruptly there was only one choice. The trails. So I headed on in to see what else the mountain had in store for me. After only a mile or so I wanted some food. I parked the Ritchey and sat down for a Cliff Bar. Peanut Butter Cliff Bar. Oh yeah.<br />
It was nice and quiet. I listened for signs of life but it was just me and my bike hanging out in the Smokey Mountains. The weather was still in the 20's so I didn't shed any clothes but the sunlight made me feel good about my solitary situation.<br />
After my meal I headed around what is known as the <a href="http://www.greatsmokies.com/hiking.php">Gold Mine Loop Trail</a>. I kept a sharp eye out for hikers and made my way around and back to the tunnel. The trail was smooth and fast but covered with leaves so I took my time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP6Zh1GtC3wDSe4EKrLuUPSvNOU-4buBuIrJACViuMY01FYl38lQbOBZoNOz3cJ_mYOgRKMXPk3nvaliAPSBAilwh-PUn-21_-3ckUqBGgAV5H8LZ6wP75yDs7GNOlijhASnb1hEzXMps/s1600/IMAG0273_BURST002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP6Zh1GtC3wDSe4EKrLuUPSvNOU-4buBuIrJACViuMY01FYl38lQbOBZoNOz3cJ_mYOgRKMXPk3nvaliAPSBAilwh-PUn-21_-3ckUqBGgAV5H8LZ6wP75yDs7GNOlijhASnb1hEzXMps/s320/IMAG0273_BURST002.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
That was fun. I'll bet it's not nearly as much fun if the trails are full of people but on a cold winter day this ride was perfect.<br />
I made my way back down the mountain which by the way is just as hard as getting up there. You all know that in cycling... what goes down, must go back up. All the decents that froze my toes were now climbs that kept me warm. But just like a mountain bike trail is totally different when you ride it backward... the ride back to Bryson City was a new reward. It's times like that I love my hobby so much by comparison.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKONMfCDqXJKntzB-IafJA8g7myduqRALPQUOUhtx1_VYHcRx403U-nzKMpBk7xinrJG3qcaDoClrkcQgw9HB30B1wqS-udCmCDeqIItuy-4WgC9xl2y5uCHoFJzSf5JTk_wjjO53xwsA/s1600/IMAG0276.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKONMfCDqXJKntzB-IafJA8g7myduqRALPQUOUhtx1_VYHcRx403U-nzKMpBk7xinrJG3qcaDoClrkcQgw9HB30B1wqS-udCmCDeqIItuy-4WgC9xl2y5uCHoFJzSf5JTk_wjjO53xwsA/s320/IMAG0276.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
When I rolled back into town the bike shop was open. They had placed bikes outside and the place looked busy. I put my stuff up and fixed a recovery bottle and moseyed over to see what they had in there.<br />
At first glance is looks pretty typical for a local bike shop. I expected a "beach" bike shop full of rentals and "laymen" bike wears. But what I got was specifically sought out items by the owners who are real bike enthusiasts.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ8uojUqS7ZTD-B1uPDxlx00-zIiKhJ5ZBrAX24IZ3rxeGn5Z5SXXa-NSY__wiOIN-teOhV9aztsXYaDeIcFxoMB-G-8-Xvqn5D7s2kcH4lnybzuK4M3ctDfEdcM1-XWsB3VcQ_Fcm7Vw/s1600/IMAG0277.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ8uojUqS7ZTD-B1uPDxlx00-zIiKhJ5ZBrAX24IZ3rxeGn5Z5SXXa-NSY__wiOIN-teOhV9aztsXYaDeIcFxoMB-G-8-Xvqn5D7s2kcH4lnybzuK4M3ctDfEdcM1-XWsB3VcQ_Fcm7Vw/s320/IMAG0277.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWdifLyS4XwRDl_b1V7RlQ4Q2W7IvaJYgvFYSwT6kQkYW_1R2DUHoxFk2LR2GN2V6hMW6eDmohCZJqMNbVWn3fDrtlRBuojfzFfVUilmBCU5D4VAb95WUZsL1WrFyRIMSyqVpr73kcma8/s1600/559034_4462680317805_588367362_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWdifLyS4XwRDl_b1V7RlQ4Q2W7IvaJYgvFYSwT6kQkYW_1R2DUHoxFk2LR2GN2V6hMW6eDmohCZJqMNbVWn3fDrtlRBuojfzFfVUilmBCU5D4VAb95WUZsL1WrFyRIMSyqVpr73kcma8/s200/559034_4462680317805_588367362_n.jpg" width="150" /></a>Diane and Andy showed me a number of cool things they carried and explained why they carry them. As a small business owner myself I loved their passion for doing good business. Two things peaked my interest: Diane showed me a trunk strap that sticks out from your closed liftgate so you can loop your locking cable through it. Andy showed me the helmets they carry which have a built in light/camera mount on the top. Only $80 bucks if I remember right. These folks were great and really rounded out my adventure. Thanks guys!<br />
<br />
I did manage to get a cup of coffee before I headed back to the cabin for a shower and some warm breakfast. The town was starting to wake up.<br />
<br />
I think next time I'll head over to Deep Creek and try some roads over there. But the views better be really good to beat what happened on The Road to Nowhere.<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading! Remember to wave, be friendly, and single up when you can!<br />
<br />
Chad Hayes<br />
<br />Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00306386622733315527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655692694530611569.post-10875382350941439632012-11-20T13:38:00.000-05:002012-11-20T13:38:37.105-05:00Chad's State of the Union<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/>
<w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
<w:Word11KerningPairs/>
<w:CachedColBalance/>
</w:Compatibility>
<w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYtPxOkFCziRoN_naTEYyRbNHOhyphenhyphenJcHGZtqGK4rz5Ges_8NL1h90zpb3udmUXlqe-aXJHvZOvklWPNlMuG3FEG6uzyFTF8UwOsLjoz6ha-kLi133eZpcwN4Dxl8bUF9NIb7SlIdlIHZHA/s1600/Listening.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYtPxOkFCziRoN_naTEYyRbNHOhyphenhyphenJcHGZtqGK4rz5Ges_8NL1h90zpb3udmUXlqe-aXJHvZOvklWPNlMuG3FEG6uzyFTF8UwOsLjoz6ha-kLi133eZpcwN4Dxl8bUF9NIb7SlIdlIHZHA/s320/Listening.PNG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Greetings!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I feel like I should apologize to you guys. I went from
weekly emails and blog posts to nothing at all. I haven’t organized any rides
in a while and don’t get to ride with you guys much these days. The main reason
is because I’ve been put in charge of running two dealerships in <a href="http://www.hayeschevrolet.com/">Baldwin</a> with
my cousin Matt. It’s a blessing and I’m glad for it. But my time on the bike
has suffered tremendously. Some of you will no doubt be glad I’m sucking wind
at the next ride. I can feel the fitness creeping out of my body. For the time
being though I need to focus on the great responsibility I’ve been given at
work.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEippSqc2mbGHE2eNpheFkRx_IvLxYs_RdR_GFq0vkQYpfOh9GbwJJ7UIp4289MllnKqwq-rHkodKoESivZpL9wzptKLc-tYheIqZ4mnsaEurdppVN6Kt3x4r7z7c7mtExYRTQKVT0QlpGc/s1600/snow+055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEippSqc2mbGHE2eNpheFkRx_IvLxYs_RdR_GFq0vkQYpfOh9GbwJJ7UIp4289MllnKqwq-rHkodKoESivZpL9wzptKLc-tYheIqZ4mnsaEurdppVN6Kt3x4r7z7c7mtExYRTQKVT0QlpGc/s320/snow+055.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I say all that to say this… I’ll be back… soon. But my time right now
is limited and so my blog posts will be fewer. The walls of my basement may be
the only scenery I see for a while. Which is even worse than riding in the snow. And other than the New Years Ride I won’t
be organizing any. I’ll simply be joining them when I can. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rest assured I will be back to loading my legs with lactic
acid as soon as possible once I’m comfortable in my new shoes at the
dealerships. I already miss riding terribly. Wait. I terribly miss riding.
Well, anyway. I also miss having time to sit and write tales of woe to the
cycling world. But give me a few months and I’ll return with a vengeance for
all things cycling.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I talked to a guy last week who found my blog and read every
story I’ve ever written. Like it was a book. He made me feel really good about
it.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If any of you have a good story about some biking adventure
you had, please take time to type out the details and send it to me. I will
even edit it if you like. The more stuff we get out there about biking in North
Georgia the better biking in North Georgia will be. Trust me I’ve attending
about 400 seminars and webinars on Digital Marketing and I know how the
internet works. Fresh, relevant content is what makes an impression when it
comes to search results. An optimized biking community is a plus for our local
economy and our advocacy of healthy, bike friendly policies. Heck, we might even earn ourselves some government spending. Not to
mention it puts cycling in a positive light to combat the negative rants that
may come up first in a search. Example: Google; Kia or Hyundai Gas Mileage.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So what’s coming up that I know about in North Georgia
biking?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmhsJ7vge5Xu_Acpy0drK1kHsHNcHJX_dUuj1idOdanPzyJ2UwzUf4gSzbXMBrJExjhmDmlSqbR4A5jUGSa0z6fNW1MFLQBhpZTMhgReboarZ2F_wqMOorDc3MJas9jxLD11DCrb6JsQw/s1600/WBL+Day+1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="159" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmhsJ7vge5Xu_Acpy0drK1kHsHNcHJX_dUuj1idOdanPzyJ2UwzUf4gSzbXMBrJExjhmDmlSqbR4A5jUGSa0z6fNW1MFLQBhpZTMhgReboarZ2F_wqMOorDc3MJas9jxLD11DCrb6JsQw/s320/WBL+Day+1.PNG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
THE <a href="http://winterbikeleague.com/site/">Winter Bike League</a> in Athens will be starting up on
December 1<sup>st</sup>. From then on they will traverse the globe from
Sunshine Cycles every Saturday morning at 10AM. I plan to attend as many as my
wife will let me do. I need the miles.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicuN039f2MqCtEvoLjF79DT6mT7am3em77oZDBjnABgnOidmgLUDMe9Cr39p3CJDncnwzPDcX_fyuw7ie1__ry4cr4HhYkJCqqi1uRPxo2XH5PIppNrlIXw4iO1ercQ2N-UYLB6z03EeM/s1600/100_1897.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicuN039f2MqCtEvoLjF79DT6mT7am3em77oZDBjnABgnOidmgLUDMe9Cr39p3CJDncnwzPDcX_fyuw7ie1__ry4cr4HhYkJCqqi1uRPxo2XH5PIppNrlIXw4iO1ercQ2N-UYLB6z03EeM/s320/100_1897.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our annual <a href="http://chadsnews.blogspot.com/2012/01/2012-new-years-ride.html">NEW YEARS GAP</a> ride will take place on either
Saturday Dec 29<sup>th</sup> or Tuesday Jan 1<sup>st</sup>. I’ll be taking
requests to determine the exact date so get yours in early. This years ride will feature goodie bag left overs from the Lt. Gov's ride and vehicle support. Plus whatever else I can come up with. A KOM prize perhaps. A Newest Newbie prize. Hmmm.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m hoping to do a Cyclo Cross race before I die. The <a href="http://georgiacx.com/gacxschedule/">StateChampionship</a> is in Macon on December 9<sup>th</sup> (Sunday). That sounds like
a good time to race cross for the first time.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It's a long way off but in February I'll be attending at least one Hincapie Training Series race and this year I want to do the <a href="http://www.55nine.com/southernX.html">Southern Cross</a>. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So that’s my schpeel for this post. I hope to have more and
more time as the winter rolls on. You can visit my blog for the latest links to
all that I am aware of in North Georgia.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dy3pJeX2ujXz-tGLfU5sQAK7QE8f23w2drtjXrtI654WTa38UECcFSNefwqCJTEyd3MA1USsV7kWVw5LqQnyA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Oh and please consider buying your next vehicle from me. I
don’t care what brand. You won’t find a better deal. I’ve already gotten my
heart right. Send me a new customer (<a href="http://www.hayeschryslerdodgejeepofbaldwin.com/">New or Pre-Owned</a>) and I’ll give you
$100.00.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Not kidding. $ 100 dollars. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thanks for reading! I’ll see you guys soon!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Chad Hayes </div>
Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00306386622733315527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655692694530611569.post-2342349155314811212012-11-09T17:28:00.002-05:002012-11-20T14:18:58.306-05:002012 Tour de Tugaloo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqk8LRYa0WDsMd-eEWMfVTh0OSZpY9Gvuhk6aYFOUzByq81t74vHhHssZM3DMEklmkA71HXrNXegy4XAcVDGUgWc1Cpg-us-vcuUjSqQ6tbxdQvq5OTU0M3w0d_96CtQ8bxZGxtE48cis/s1600/Tour+de+Tugaloo+Logo.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqk8LRYa0WDsMd-eEWMfVTh0OSZpY9Gvuhk6aYFOUzByq81t74vHhHssZM3DMEklmkA71HXrNXegy4XAcVDGUgWc1Cpg-us-vcuUjSqQ6tbxdQvq5OTU0M3w0d_96CtQ8bxZGxtE48cis/s640/Tour+de+Tugaloo+Logo.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1TLLe9EdVEk8BfU4entEewlH5dHVsFO2seRBH74SHYvmzpUhEVtzHoQ_bSF8PtMTU0CD-nh8GZNjR7bXLX6SoLyZJH3YoCYw_AtFA-wd5VLTmsGxXicSw9ZUQmrcK3DxstFxckhDiWzQ/s1600/18593_3451120731636_144038426_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1TLLe9EdVEk8BfU4entEewlH5dHVsFO2seRBH74SHYvmzpUhEVtzHoQ_bSF8PtMTU0CD-nh8GZNjR7bXLX6SoLyZJH3YoCYw_AtFA-wd5VLTmsGxXicSw9ZUQmrcK3DxstFxckhDiWzQ/s320/18593_3451120731636_144038426_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This ride takes place in Toccoa, Georgia, a very historical town where the people are quiet and friendly and very patriotic. I love visiting Toccoa and have spent miles and miles on the roads around there. Even on the dirt roads. Especially the ones leading up Currahee Mountain. The history rich area center's around the fact that it was once the home of the 101st Airborn who training at <a href="http://camptoccoaatcurrahee.org/index.html">Camp Toccoa</a> in preparation for their defense of our country in World War II. Their story was featured in the movie series Band of Brothers. I've blogged about the <a href="http://chadsnews.blogspot.com/2011/11/2011-currahee-adventure-duathlon.html">Currahee Adventure Race</a> in the past and how cool it is to run up that mountain. But now I'll tell you about a great cold weather road ride that takes place each year from nearby Yonah Dam Park. Visit their Facebook page for some great photos!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/groups/153611481647/?fref=ts">Tour de Tugaloo on Facebook</a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxgJ_Pq1L2MNzPzXEvMli9pqVNZ3jqaeUbpGSWx6MFxOMXL5mBY6vHTZsSYXSW2KAFG-ljKyLzaXoPDUjLn_w' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipADCxVVttdbJdG6IaLObgYL_Sr0tT_UK7lypteOktRXKaM2JNUvS6_uzCrBHwsHVKQn4aoju8hPvFbd1Y1AnTiE_LzIYyppIrBW3eHaZ5zCOS0BU1TC8bfRpoUy6zg6FEP-Dx56y1Wa0/s1600/293851_4840143772085_762536892_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipADCxVVttdbJdG6IaLObgYL_Sr0tT_UK7lypteOktRXKaM2JNUvS6_uzCrBHwsHVKQn4aoju8hPvFbd1Y1AnTiE_LzIYyppIrBW3eHaZ5zCOS0BU1TC8bfRpoUy6zg6FEP-Dx56y1Wa0/s200/293851_4840143772085_762536892_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
I arrived early at the park and found the hustle of setting up was still in full swing. Joe and Penny Elam from Habersham Bicycles were there selling stuff and helping riders. Pearl Izumi Outlet was there selling winter stuff. Some really nice folks from North Georgia Canopy Tours were showing off their zip line rides. Some guy was warming hot chocolate and later baked cookies!<br />
At registration, DeLisa Christ was way too happy... as usual. Ride Director Duane Mahon was running around like a chicken with its head cut off. And it was the typical temperature in the 30's to start the day.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK_pmqpR7AEUnLgHa8KyItXeIXgwWNLhrb2cg-CeTwuYoLI_7CwN5CcCQ-gULXOeVLzG0AZxkiRCYYUq21jQml-I5Il62HGwaybgPkMHT3sX1uaEET-f4msqgMcoPgiifY-XeW2GbzZTQ/s1600/IMAG0165.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK_pmqpR7AEUnLgHa8KyItXeIXgwWNLhrb2cg-CeTwuYoLI_7CwN5CcCQ-gULXOeVLzG0AZxkiRCYYUq21jQml-I5Il62HGwaybgPkMHT3sX1uaEET-f4msqgMcoPgiifY-XeW2GbzZTQ/s320/IMAG0165.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clint and Brent Sanders</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
My plan for the ride was the best I could come up with and still take my beloved wife to watch Georgia play football later that afternoon in Athens. The 100 mile riders would be leaving at 9AM while the rest would leave at 10AM. I needed the early start and a shorter route. Fortunately I was in Sander's Drugs earlier in the week and learned that owner Clint Sander's would be riding the 42 mile route at 9AM with his brother Brent. That was perfect for me! A ride with some good folks instead of all by myself.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOu-cb3m8yXKJOM9D5eVHfGMnALri1Obg-Q0VTvbNZlNdEfHAd1EIvlLanbgRuxKZKFY4X1OkuOdc6oWBU2NZj6OmSYjCf61bdBUlUZsEqv2JlKZoBI-fwUnrvgfUcGJwao7zXr-lOaXo/s1600/318772_4840124491603_683901631_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOu-cb3m8yXKJOM9D5eVHfGMnALri1Obg-Q0VTvbNZlNdEfHAd1EIvlLanbgRuxKZKFY4X1OkuOdc6oWBU2NZj6OmSYjCf61bdBUlUZsEqv2JlKZoBI-fwUnrvgfUcGJwao7zXr-lOaXo/s320/318772_4840124491603_683901631_n.jpg" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Robin Lindsay Dake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ4xjEGccxyE3FjrBz0Kyjln8bBsxpLWmtWn3gmhYVi4yhBFjAtyKa1DkFKu7p86hfMxXqVL-NZDf0doDHvJBL7ezzrlIT-9Wl-hNCAhNC8BWySrZHXNO1jJjkzeowL4RavHUsfDabxWQ/s1600/Tour+de+Tugalo+2012-11-02+044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ4xjEGccxyE3FjrBz0Kyjln8bBsxpLWmtWn3gmhYVi4yhBFjAtyKa1DkFKu7p86hfMxXqVL-NZDf0doDHvJBL7ezzrlIT-9Wl-hNCAhNC8BWySrZHXNO1jJjkzeowL4RavHUsfDabxWQ/s200/Tour+de+Tugalo+2012-11-02+044.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
My chosen armor was less than sufficient for the first hour of the ride. I stood around shivering at the start and quickly lost some fingers and toes on the way out. The road leading out is along the river... and the river is <i>COLD</i> in November! I do admit I'm a real girl in the cold. I thought about getting some good banter going about how cold it was but there were people with less than I had on riding and smiling like homesick polar bears. Brent was one of them. So I only complained to Clint.<br />
<br />
We made our way with some of the 100 milers for about 7 miles until we had to turn left. Then we were on our own. We rode along talking about the people who lived here and there. Clint and Brent grew up there so they could tell a million stories about small town "stuff". Of course we talked bikes and racing and food and a little business. It wasn't long before the sun was warming us and I had the perfect clothes on.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyhdAktMoWLbWquCzYJgQaIbjxPgLav8ag35hiDKu2IQIDYEjwP6Uw4FHYM57tqYtn-uCHYPSVLzkaZJaUQpg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
We rolled over hill and dale, through old concrete tunnels and across lovely wooden bridges. It was a great day to be on a bike.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYt3S73X5mcKXudTIgQLLum8c1_3r01zlV48GjD2xDTN2jX2QOEVWLymQAZuwPyR9jFxNFQqnjkp3wGovm7gEOgi4yXvRsFG8g2Y-7S7sqrO9LB3MiXvoFVagi8gE3dc7oaLFzDeNt2CE/s1600/IMAG0172_BURST002_COVER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYt3S73X5mcKXudTIgQLLum8c1_3r01zlV48GjD2xDTN2jX2QOEVWLymQAZuwPyR9jFxNFQqnjkp3wGovm7gEOgi4yXvRsFG8g2Y-7S7sqrO9LB3MiXvoFVagi8gE3dc7oaLFzDeNt2CE/s320/IMAG0172_BURST002_COVER.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
After turned off River Road I was in uncharted territory. My phone had no signal. I had no food and one bottle. As we rode zigged and zagged from one turn to another I was very grateful for my company. Clint split a chocolate Stinger waffle with me as my bottle went dry. Then we rolled up on the sweetest rest stop this side of the Georgia/South Carolina line.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWDmQezjDABHx1SCUI_HeVQLE9yXlHQ3Xt7OqGcYZ4dR6uAu_7vxSNIWOLmIUx05Gyd-8uqiXXJnho2SL04GmJHCp2h72TJRy7IM8yfqShIVrCw5TQ7pqt6YYZAL2aqRM_QZoQ6fb9KmA/s1600/IMAG0175.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWDmQezjDABHx1SCUI_HeVQLE9yXlHQ3Xt7OqGcYZ4dR6uAu_7vxSNIWOLmIUx05Gyd-8uqiXXJnho2SL04GmJHCp2h72TJRy7IM8yfqShIVrCw5TQ7pqt6YYZAL2aqRM_QZoQ6fb9KmA/s200/IMAG0175.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
A very nice lady refilled my bottle and another one offered me the first cranberry filled brownie I've ever had. So I had two. And some graham crackers with peanut butter in them.<br />
<br />
I don't know what Clint and Brent had. They didn't exist during this very important time in my life.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiduiw6U2ZKumnYoFaa89hqx-m8ukCM_CHt61XOgFUBfQ-yYr3Esl1kxJOpO5Ffxlf2v4VMw_XACrVYj7fAa5iTNyC3Zb01Gf8HY5z0R9Ra4GUNcNRel_CfsCHetLYfTReApEQ0R10ifkY/s1600/IMAG0173.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiduiw6U2ZKumnYoFaa89hqx-m8ukCM_CHt61XOgFUBfQ-yYr3Esl1kxJOpO5Ffxlf2v4VMw_XACrVYj7fAa5iTNyC3Zb01Gf8HY5z0R9Ra4GUNcNRel_CfsCHetLYfTReApEQ0R10ifkY/s200/IMAG0173.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
I wanted to stay and properly taste everything on the table but I know how bad it feels to stay too long at a SAG stop and then re-mount the bike. We bid farewell to the baked goodness and headed on. <br />
The road then went wild. A roller coaster of asphalt leading out to a final climb up where the air was clean. Then we turned around and headed back.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzdUdVDbloO5YyedSL7FMrj4XsngFcd1g6-rCAy62SIExJ1mADjZk-1h6uJgAxAFidgqcaccWMk6EZGaCcURg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9jVnaE6Q63ipQ8gQiCzFlmmipCZozFgKrEuk_QwUDOqqMxhOJoNVc5BuPsZiJi2zpd4tLpy8kxWJtlyepkfkf1v1m5ind6_0yCuDXRLPaRxZG8iSp-Z4J-P456QiJnhX16pTbWfAeEMk/s1600/IMAG0170.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9jVnaE6Q63ipQ8gQiCzFlmmipCZozFgKrEuk_QwUDOqqMxhOJoNVc5BuPsZiJi2zpd4tLpy8kxWJtlyepkfkf1v1m5ind6_0yCuDXRLPaRxZG8iSp-Z4J-P456QiJnhX16pTbWfAeEMk/s320/IMAG0170.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I looked at my watch and started doing some math. At this pace I wouldn't make good on my commitment to Lisa.<br />
This cannot be.<br />
So I left my companions and began a time trial back to the finish... and the hot chocolate... cookies... classic rock... a massage? Nope. No time for a massage. Crap!<br />
I flew past the brownie SAG again and saw my friend Alex Sloan with a hand full of them. He was leaned back laughing like a big Viking drunk on wine. Only he's like 90 pounds with nary a whisker on his face. Alex doesn't deserve them. He's a Tech grad. I let my dis pare turn to anger and blasted back to home base. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0q8gUvfvHCTKc34uanoiHEjarB8bAu69kdSGKH40YM1YyYIqAbvMwI-aavIm8nyGNvLs2uJfs6XsksKYgTVQemkmdl7jkAqCifXL8VNgeJSArpaBTE6hzbus8MDcHQOfthcB81baUQag/s1600/22512_4840156252397_1480982514_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0q8gUvfvHCTKc34uanoiHEjarB8bAu69kdSGKH40YM1YyYIqAbvMwI-aavIm8nyGNvLs2uJfs6XsksKYgTVQemkmdl7jkAqCifXL8VNgeJSArpaBTE6hzbus8MDcHQOfthcB81baUQag/s320/22512_4840156252397_1480982514_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Music back at the finish was awesome!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As I rolled up to the car the air was filled with Bob Dylan. These guys were really good and I wish I could have hung around for the festivities. I quickly changed and headed to out to my next big adventure.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrfHY0QTdgnan8ckWd2VIZ_i3TO3JGFicLvGe2ohS9nwaH9RG9D87aOTTVX3oS2TkpKdkvXmzyONg1G5NTbCLYVYeEPcp0DflroxdX1-kF74N_wr879b1INTiqef9eFALDyMlR5siWkQE/s1600/522198_505628099460915_1886093616_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrfHY0QTdgnan8ckWd2VIZ_i3TO3JGFicLvGe2ohS9nwaH9RG9D87aOTTVX3oS2TkpKdkvXmzyONg1G5NTbCLYVYeEPcp0DflroxdX1-kF74N_wr879b1INTiqef9eFALDyMlR5siWkQE/s200/522198_505628099460915_1886093616_n.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<br />
Some notable things happened that I missed because of the way I decided to ride the Tour de Tugaloo. Young rider Dylan Cantrell got to ride with newly signed BMC/Hincapie Development rider <a href="http://hincapieracing.com/team/will-richter/">Will Richter</a>. What a cool thing! I've often said I wish I would have found cycling at an earlier age. It's great to watch Dylan enjoying the great youth cycling movement going on today. How cool would it be to play football in the yard and have Matt Ryan walk up and play? That's the equivalent of what happens at some of these rides when pro guys show up. Makes me wish I'd gone to the Hincapie Gran Fondo the weekend before and met Cadel and TJ. Blah, Blah, Blah! No use crying over spilt milk.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjErcxuX95yD0YUhHaRbSFuOBHVAriQZ1K7wiLjOlxzll1ibT1Wc_uJIvQnqjXWoHdLsB-iPcwkBKziS5sYcLGnCakbti9Y6hP-PAjQ9ybpF6IpEx9MK3J5XlQ5i05iJg0PGJwvVhKtK4I/s1600/IMAG0180.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjErcxuX95yD0YUhHaRbSFuOBHVAriQZ1K7wiLjOlxzll1ibT1Wc_uJIvQnqjXWoHdLsB-iPcwkBKziS5sYcLGnCakbti9Y6hP-PAjQ9ybpF6IpEx9MK3J5XlQ5i05iJg0PGJwvVhKtK4I/s320/IMAG0180.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
There were undoubtedly many more memories made at this ride. My own experience has to have been the least of them. You can begin to understand if you'll visit the TdT Facebook page and look at all the photos. I ended up having the best time with Lisa at the ballgame. We have so much fun no matter where we go. Man I love that woman!<br />
<br />
Well that about wraps it up for this edition of Chad's News. The remainder of the year will be a smattering of group rides with maybe a CycloCross race mixed in there. Be on the lookout for our annual New Years Ride in the GAPS!<br />
<br />
Chad Hayes<br />
<br />Chadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00306386622733315527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655692694530611569.post-26870761265100712622012-10-16T16:13:00.001-04:002012-10-16T16:13:36.320-04:002012 Hills of Habersham Ride<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7p5efrsAxT27baxhDj7z98KP8nzUvE5i27F-JZUXYsddxycPGv9YOuGQjcd_ek0MeAwt4WDKXrjUX5OIt1gE-nILZu4FfgXsTFzXR3RsdXTL3xXDWXGIO024hQ9s-QW2Q6K1UvpwndEA/s320/Hills+of+Hab.PNG" width="320" /></div>
<br />
<br />
On a beautiful fall day I joined some great friends for a cool ride in the <a href="http://xerxes.northgatech.edu/bikenow/2011/images/route.pdf">Hills of Habersham</a>, Georgia. This ride raises money for the Habersham Chamber of Commerce. The ladies who run the Chamber are super fun and worked very hard to take care of the riders. It started from the Ruby Fulbright Aquatic Center in Clarkesville, GA.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzC6dOUg5ATYWhfbdR1uJ8Po7KLH6lTH-qSSV93EdWsp0DWShKJdLt_mWqOn2usxObxaBRMEQbpQ7BehyX9GQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqpreHvRkpf74WufFC0GLlbIP8lYVklukY6SOHwBNKUUraqFkIVMGY_nK4JeAL_1cJBXOgO_9feed6M_nbWdWYkzEmjucK7QrFie8KQmuWefEDMFSD3RbKtWkAnNx4BkSI9NyrqWDzl-Q/s1600/IMAG0021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqpreHvRkpf74WufFC0GLlbIP8lYVklukY6SOHwBNKUUraqFkIVMGY_nK4JeAL_1cJBXOgO_9feed6M_nbWdWYkzEmjucK7QrFie8KQmuWefEDMFSD3RbKtWkAnNx4BkSI9NyrqWDzl-Q/s200/IMAG0021.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
I planned to spend this ride with my friend Joe Elam, Owner of Habersham Bicycles. He's a good Christian man who runs a great business right on Hwy 365 at Anderson Village where Mickey Piggs BBQ is. I buy all my bikes from Joe. He's always been fair and honest. Like most people I'm lured by the online world with offers to save $10 dollars on a tire or something. But unlike most people I understand the absolute need to spend my money locally with a business I trust. There's also the benefit of not having to hassle with warranty issues. Joe and I and others have collaborated on a club team for years and it's been fun. So this ride I wanted to hang out with Joe and support his efforts there.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTnohRrM6k5_Xda18nZ3RbQhBvc-bsFOjRI02lFUgichKz7d4_ZO1Z9dfbRaNhFTcPhOroMbXVNQ1LWIswG6_udVTPQ1uE4wBg7-L2PEqhnv8zhpTKaz6-J1SPq52_p409vI2_SIwupOQ/s1600/IMAG0018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTnohRrM6k5_Xda18nZ3RbQhBvc-bsFOjRI02lFUgichKz7d4_ZO1Z9dfbRaNhFTcPhOroMbXVNQ1LWIswG6_udVTPQ1uE4wBg7-L2PEqhnv8zhpTKaz6-J1SPq52_p409vI2_SIwupOQ/s320/IMAG0018.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The usual suspects arrived shortly after I did and declared their intentions to stay together and ride as a group for fun. In our group were Stephen Sisk, Benny Bohanon, David Latty, David Shabat, Scott Wheeler, David Park, Brian Horton and others. I noticed Sean Philyaw at the start but he's too fast for us. He even beat us to the shower at the end. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZapXvxVNn80GaECw2sadTwvypqoSGTNlpYEu6vZnjaihEKwBt3VU-VNZLXOLdDbsZYUWwsc5sltGnI6yfZxxCNKiN7y8c_1F-IeT1L7aRQi7s8RJUevwr0PdIeDctxW35b7D_aiPj3pI/s1600/IMAG0015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZapXvxVNn80GaECw2sadTwvypqoSGTNlpYEu6vZnjaihEKwBt3VU-VNZLXOLdDbsZYUWwsc5sltGnI6yfZxxCNKiN7y8c_1F-IeT1L7aRQi7s8RJUevwr0PdIeDctxW35b7D_aiPj3pI/s200/IMAG0015.jpg" width="185" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brian Horton</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Stephen Sisk and I were especially excited about our ride because we had some new hottness on our bikes. Stephen was sporting some new shifters, bar and stem, brakes, rear derailleur, and even some flashy new decals on his titanium steed. Oh and a new ceramic bottom bracket too.<br />
He smiled a lot now that I think about it.<br />
I had my new American Classic Tubeless Road Wheels on my Ritchey Breakaway Ti for their first ride. So pretty. It is my understanding that the two white spokes on each wheel made them look "wobbly" as I rode. But trust me... they were smooth and fast!<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY8NPhq9HOKdqWez-ZjpgPtd729ARKPblLKkuxZs6Lu5TaWyMC7aiJzqG5wicCITnHPnqIuR_IQPIJnwDoCxq2aJ4NId1s2SQce1abHX0y7BQ75R2jZtAFy5ZTeG-JQHet8uL-XXRZwIU/s1600/IMAG0010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="111" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY8NPhq9HOKdqWez-ZjpgPtd729ARKPblLKkuxZs6Lu5TaWyMC7aiJzqG5wicCITnHPnqIuR_IQPIJnwDoCxq2aJ4NId1s2SQce1abHX0y7BQ75R2jZtAFy5ZTeG-JQHet8uL-XXRZwIU/s200/IMAG0010.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ritchey Breakaway w/ AC Tubeless</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We headed toward Cornelia and the Big Red Apple Festival. We never actually saw the festival because the route detoured around it but I here there were thousands of funnel cakes sold.<br />
We enjoyed a cool morning of riding and talking. The SAG stations provided great snacks like Nutter Butters, Oreos, PB&J, and for some reason I was especially excited about the zip-lock bags of M&M's. Nobody noticed they were there until I pulled them out during the ride. Then it became an "awe shucks" moment for the guys. It was surprisingly difficult to eat M&M's out of a zip-lock bag while riding.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjrzH2R4ZFXralJCjiZpFf-5SI6Vnq-AVO_J3oGUL-BY8oD1Uj8De8WwjNzG0PFLzqJcxprbr8_nvGvtCJ5N0b1Jj4uScrrfkRDHL26rA9qPp1kKhgCeFDSXgsIw5_fwR_NvRU5dWrsfc/s1600/IMAG0032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="128" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjrzH2R4ZFXralJCjiZpFf-5SI6Vnq-AVO_J3oGUL-BY8oD1Uj8De8WwjNzG0PFLzqJcxprbr8_nvGvtCJ5N0b1Jj4uScrrfkRDHL26rA9qPp1kKhgCeFDSXgsIw5_fwR_NvRU5dWrsfc/s200/IMAG0032.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
There were 3 moments I remember from the ride. The Breakfast Club, a hunter in the woods, and the mustard theory. First there was a moment early on in the ride that I noticed a lot of 4x4 trucks passing us along what seemed like deserted roads. Then we road up on a shack. A breakfast serving shack built on the side of the river we were riding by. I could smell the biscuits, the gravy, the eggs, THE BACON! I stuck my nose up to get as much of that beautiful southern smell as I could. Then I noticed all the 4x4 trucks parked out front. Lucky dogs.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxnDiwfPVJKvd631-EigOwiydQSDTGFUGNosnKeY-OWKG33hmBSvDvfZmvmYYTMgafB9fR6QVkLhvvxngCRLQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
The second thing I remember was climbing past a small truck backed into the woods and thinking "there must be a hunter in there". I didn't think hunting season opened for another week and so if there was a hunter in there he probably wasn't prepared to shoot anything. For that reason I felt safe in yelling out "Don't Shoot Me!!" at the top of my lungs. I was shocked when a voice screamed something back at me from deep in the woods. We all looked at each other and laughed. It was really funny. Glad he didn't shoot me though.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCM32YAyKugC1jaFHU-FW_jf3dk0K3TLv3UpELJ3QNTJHu-ij7jIWlS82mvtE0_QxJTUCWV2QjGBkOD7FNtVRZc_upKayDnT4uM15mJAT2XLH5j7um5cLdIVqyJ_lgbZZQfDAza_ZsdUs/s1600/IMAG0028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCM32YAyKugC1jaFHU-FW_jf3dk0K3TLv3UpELJ3QNTJHu-ij7jIWlS82mvtE0_QxJTUCWV2QjGBkOD7FNtVRZc_upKayDnT4uM15mJAT2XLH5j7um5cLdIVqyJ_lgbZZQfDAza_ZsdUs/s320/IMAG0028.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The final bit of fun came at Joe's expense. He went a little too hard in the beginning and just before we reached to major climb for the day, Raper Mountain, Joe began to slow. He fell off the pace in the miles before the climb. I stopped on the way up to wait for him. While I was there I took some cool video.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dy_4p5qAAF9EGRGnYYNhQH9M0yBGDG8DBYBeIxoNk6wyE79O6R7V6ewZmvseI46FToaDnYuseq0bVTFyZxGGg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMJx3ccriI5Toy9yg5NTkjCElgjkkYWtBu1ltcsXDLv8_gkoDKMJZBrCBClZeTTWPInMeUwrAf7WdoQGOaD9Sz_Ygq3BRoYm88Czbw7VSedhYAoNoqSMy4Cwb2iRArWNmz_fgTfBtz3W0/s1600/IMAG0035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMJx3ccriI5Toy9yg5NTkjCElgjkkYWtBu1ltcsXDLv8_gkoDKMJZBrCBClZeTTWPInMeUwrAf7WdoQGOaD9Sz_Ygq3BRoYm88Czbw7VSedhYAoNoqSMy4Cwb2iRArWNmz_fgTfBtz3W0/s320/IMAG0035.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joe Elam climbs Raper Mountain, Clarkesville, GA</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When I finally saw Joe I took some video of him on the climb. He looked to be moving around .005 MPH. I stopped recording after it looked like he would make it to the flatter section I was on and when I did... he locked up solid with cramps. His legs were twitching so badly I could see the cramps rolling through the muscle fibers in his legs. I told him I wasn't recording anymore and he said he knew it. He purposely kept mashing up that climb until I put the camera down. Once he eased off... the cramps hit him. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr_SqDtDtT1h85LIs0pEB6BsdpqmXiaj_2Uw3lyJ5YvGxAGJntYmNzIbGWjYkV_YVVp412ZI1IPsPCC1MYTOa0PWADuQ-XDhddEgw3yCYomRcIUd9nhrjQde1086UOjZSK09v5Cp6SDgA/s1600/mustard-a-cure-for-cramps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr_SqDtDtT1h85LIs0pEB6BsdpqmXiaj_2Uw3lyJ5YvGxAGJntYmNzIbGWjYkV_YVVp412ZI1IPsPCC1MYTOa0PWADuQ-XDhddEgw3yCYomRcIUd9nhrjQde1086UOjZSK09v5Cp6SDgA/s200/mustard-a-cure-for-cramps.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
We stood together on the side of the road for a few minutes and a rider came up. He offered Joe two packets of mustard. You read correctly, yellow mustard. Like the kind you put on a hot dog. I'd heard of this before. People say that when you're cramping, <a href="http://www.coreperformance.com/daily/nutrition/mustard-a-cure-for-cramps.html">mustard gets rid of them</a>. Well... it worked. Joe ate two packs of mustard and got back on the bike. We made our way on up to the top of the climb and for the most part he said the cramps were gone.<br />
I...was amazed. I'd never seen it work in real life. I will have two packs of mustard in my saddle bag from now on.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaAMCrIT-7DHvuPm7hBTCqR1whkgbOZ_1p3qxa6hXcU60pUIGWX-3AGz-3sx-qt9_I2klSDa6e8AMyU0H8NkdaKZaeH-WGiXLGlDAWYSsiE4xGWPkmG8y1MZ04Hq03IUU1wE0g9MK6K-A/s1600/IMAG0030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaAMCrIT-7DHvuPm7hBTCqR1whkgbOZ_1p3qxa6hXcU60pUIGWX-3AGz-3sx-qt9_I2klSDa6e8AMyU0H8NkdaKZaeH-WGiXLGlDAWYSsiE4xGWPkmG8y1MZ04Hq03IUU1wE0g9MK6K-A/s200/IMAG0030.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
I also need to mention my friend David Shabat's ride for the day. His wife and son were riding the two best bikes in the house and David didn't want to miss out on this ride. So he brought the first bike he ever bought... for his wife. To clarify, he rode a 30 pound aluminum mountain bike he converted to a road bike for this ride. It had a kick stand. We found that to be very handy at the SAG stations for reasons you can see in the picture. And a flat bar. The only thing David had going for him was the mountain bike gearing...which he really couldn't use if he wanted to keep up with us. So, hats off to my friend for making it happen against all odds.<br />
<br />
We made our way to the town of Batesville where I found some more M&M's and some tasty pretzels. Leaving Batesville we traveled down a fun decent beside the river on Hwy 197 back to one of my favorite towns, Clarkesville. It was a great ride. A memorable ride. I can't wait to do this one next year. With mustard.<br />
<br />
Here's some more photo's!!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5-zVfB9iCjrn11-WMzwpXcNeCGuZcXp5dHGxpqLM4vlnv0VPzfy-Sllp-gr8r0PEwmHmNyh-I7lCTjFiz0Qwk7vJjpg4M6zHVcwu6DTSOKgLzua1J-CuWbSTDxzBfCJHE6iFsH3OdARQ/s1600/IMAG0016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5-zVfB9iCjrn11-WMzwpXcNeCGuZcXp5dHGxpqLM4vlnv0VPzfy-Sllp-gr8r0PEwmHmNyh-I7lCTjFiz0Qwk7vJjpg4M6zHVcwu6DTSOKgLzua1J-CuWbSTDxzBfCJHE6iFsH3OdARQ/s320/IMAG0016.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGINt1IilPR722K68eK2iTI9s2CE3rrFSD9Eeaa00tP1pjjY9VTBrWSIQZ9PVDOWbejwRxrskTfP9-0IqKqEgSrS_JtM6k3rc073U7XCCZoF6GKrdDuaJV0a8XtP2fbcmYdjedFepIdf0/s1600/IMAG0013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGINt1IilPR722K68eK2iTI9s2CE3rrFSD9Eeaa00tP1pjjY9VTBrWSIQZ9PVDOWbejwRxrskTfP9-0IqKqEgSrS_JtM6k3rc073U7XCCZoF6GKrdDuaJV0a8XtP2fbcmYdjedFepIdf0/s320/IMAG0013.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0KBqfPT8c0lJLLR0y5dn23QLpxR5G75Ol98tKOMWUXYr2qTBteGMq9eZSsR7jJiTf-7QxlEnaXktn0hSQRYDr0azt20B-1wPjVKChHT4jxHH9FtpcVYKNFbMrlHWpjG72s5Sxwle7-JQ/s1600/IMAG0031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0KBqfPT8c0lJLLR0y5dn23QLpxR5G75Ol98tKOMWUXYr2qTBteGMq9eZSsR7jJiTf-7QxlEnaXktn0hSQRYDr0azt20B-1wPjVKChHT4jxHH9FtpcVYKNFbMrlHWpjG72s5Sxwle7-JQ/s320/IMAG0031.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDa11pwvz24XdlErNe4DgAZ76azdQq8NopcdPaPaAqDLVQVsQqXTC1jJDxxVEM01Pd26VjwIfnY0JG655DAqqBNSquUt5u_w5xCjzrJmlSAxNLQGBLa78qt0fHqbQU7m0YvF8qyLmLd8U/s1600/IMAG0022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="135" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDa11pwvz24XdlErNe4DgAZ76azdQq8NopcdPaPaAqDLVQVsQqXTC1jJDxxVEM01Pd26VjwIfnY0JG655DAqqBNSquUt5u_w5xCjzrJmlSAxNLQGBLa78qt0fHqbQU7m0YvF8qyLmLd8U/s320/IMAG0022.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxy-SJa-QZspYsYGcdx9lBUn8uVed5aT0pkuJ7b-Gpp6NFBZQlQAEUZvqIDyFV_42eMDpkUr5vqYpFgI8HEztzVnqUhcPELM_r889NhQ5vN1_KjfvvcHrAE39Be6d-wdd7PiixqFoeNqo/s1600/IMAG0020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxy-SJa-QZspYsYGcdx9lBUn8uVed5aT0pkuJ7b-Gpp6NFBZQlQAEUZvqIDyFV_42eMDpkUr5vqYpFgI8HEztzVnqUhcPELM_r889NhQ5vN1_KjfvvcHrAE39Be6d-wdd7PiixqFoeNqo/s320/IMAG0020.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlQFjYH3ECJXiKlgdP6-f5U9PTm4Azpsi8D8zVY0F29i39rMq8gHNWSR-85dDZ9-9Kk_29FZnzxWF0B0LYnokLUr-x3QFVX7q1Xx6CwABdE1pynBBz-D8hrH-owVTNEhCFNtKIaBp1D3Y/s1600/IMAG0029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlQFjYH3ECJXiKlgdP6-f5U9PTm4Azpsi8D8zVY0F29i39rMq8gHNWSR-85dDZ9-9Kk_29FZnzxWF0B0LYnokLUr-x3QFVX7q1Xx6CwABdE1pynBBz-D8hrH-owVTNEhCFNtKIaBp1D3Y/s320/IMAG0029.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghwJMMz7x0C0Y-D0zYwTLPpdS0P2SxLtErO2OpBLZzlWRgT9w3365Vees9BwCLTa-5sqjuPXTwyLUnYlWYwFw0XKDtSf_WFTjcf4DESXSsjdco3qsCTNwnlQBIKMqXizoCqskgtE3d0XI/s1600/IMAG0025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghwJMMz7x0C0Y-D0zYwTLPpdS0P2SxLtErO2OpBLZzlWRgT9w3365Vees9BwCLTa-5sqjuPXTwyLUnYlWYwFw0XKDtSf_WFTjcf4DESXSsjdco3qsCTNwnlQBIKMqXizoCqskgtE3d0XI/s320/IMAG0025.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Thanks for reading!<br />
<br />
Chad HayesChadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00306386622733315527noreply@blogger.com1