Augusta Cross Coalition

Start of the 2011 Season

2011-10-05T10:39:00.000-07:00

Augusta was consistently in the low to mid nineties in the month of September. With that in mind, feeling 40 degree air at the first race of the Georgia Cross Series was welcomed. It is also appropriate for a cross race. It isn't quite the same at 85 degrees. A small ACC group made the trip (over 4 hours with the construction on I-20) to Dalton to Race. Nate Zukas, Matt Kogel and the Phelans (Becca, Meggie and John) suited up for battle.

The first event of the day, the Masters 35+ race, had a big field with almost 30 at the start. John was cut off in the first corner and ran into the tape losing 10 or so spots. He then crashed on the next lap. Not a good start. He clawed his way back to 5th by the end of the race barely out sprinting 6th place. Not bad considering.

ACC rookie, Meggie Phelan, finished her first cross race in the Junior 14 and under category. Now the entire Phelan clan can officially call themselves cross racers. Becca lined up with the biggest group of Women A racers in years. Kym Flynn, the promoter of the race, ran away with it as usual. Becca rolled a tubular right past the 180 degree barrier hill and hit the deck hard. She pitted twice which took her out the race. She finished in spite of a trashed arm. That's bike racing...

Young Matt K. battled it out in the huge B race. His official result is incorrect. It has him down for a DNF. Last years Masters series winner, Nate Zukas, raced the A's. He took a respectable 11th finish also with a more important metric, he didn't get lapped by Thomas Turner who crushed the field.

Next up, Macon. We should have a bigger ACC contingent ready to race.

Season Finale

2010-12-09T10:13:00.000-08:00

It is hard to believe that the 2010 series is now in the books. It seems like it just started and yet it also feels that the season lasted a year. Two months of packing, travelling and racing takes its toll. Yet, you hate to see it end. Especially when the team has done so well.

The last race was in Conyers. A familiar venue with a newly designed course. Winter set in with highs barely reaching 40 degrees. Plus, it had rained some the day before. This made it a perfect day for racing cross (only better if it could have snowed!).

Conyers is on the Augusta side of Atlanta making it convenient for a day trip for the team. The first race of day had a familiar ending with Nate leaving the field on the first lap. John Phelan was fourth in the series going into the last race and needed to beat #3 by two spots to get on the podium. He managed to take third in the Master's race but Daryl was 4th. Brian Culpepper took 10th, Laddie 12th, Robert 15th, and Kelly 16th (his first Master's race).

Right after Kelly finished, he lined up for the C race and got his best finish of the year - a third place podium spot! Kelly crashed out at this venue last year so that result was sweet revenge. Dave Fahrion placed 18th and Steve Jackson 41st.

The single speed race had most of the ACC team on the line. Matt Kogel was in 4th going into the last race and needed to beat #3 to secure a series podium. He did just that with a 5th place. Phelan took 3rd. The winner of the SS also raced the A's and took 13th again on his single speed (ahead of our Nate Zukas and 8 others!). The rest of the race looked like a train of orange and blue - Laddie 9th, Brian 11th, Josh Jackson 12th, Kelly 13th, Robert 15th, Dave 19th. Many on our team signed up for multiple races to increase our overall team chances. Melissa Leigh had a nice top 5 in the Lady B's.

Becca had great race in the A's taking third. Unfortunately, she needed to beat her buddy Rebecca G. by more than two spots to take the leader's jersey. In the end she missed it by three points. If if's and but's were candies and nuts...... She finished on a high note with a podium in the last race. Rebecca Graham was a gracious series winner. Mens B - Josh J. took 17th in his second race of the day. Nate finally stepped up and raced the A's with a respectable 15th in a stacked field.

What a season though! Two leaders jerseys with Nate and John. Becca took 2nd in her series. Jack Phelan 3rd in the Juniors. Young Matt 3rd in the SS. Josh Jackson 5th in the B's. Kelly 5th in the C's. ACC was second in the overall team competition and 1st in the combined. The team really came together this year. Now we get to celebrate the season at our Christmas party! Until next year.......

Serenbe

2010-12-01T11:32:00.000-08:00

It was a cold start to the penultimate race of the season. It had been two weeks since the last race. A break after racing for over six weeks straight was welcomed. The course was tough but fair. Lots of singletrack, bumpy cow pasture, and hills to climb.

Nate aced the Masters race. He took the hole shot and didn't look back. The Masters leader's jersey is now secured. Time for Nate to step up and race with the A's next weekend. John Phelan took 6th but unfortunately didn't beat Daryl Sawyer to climb into third for the series.

Kelly E. took a great top 5 in the C's and Dave Fahrion 20th. The single speed race had a nice ACC contingent with John P, Kelly, Dave, Matt, Josh and Steve Jackson competing. John took 2nd and also secured his leader's jersey for the series. Matt is now in 4th and needs to beat #3 in the last race to climb the podium for the series. Josh dropped his chain a few times but managed to beat his Dad. Jack Phelan is now third in the 14 and under series and needs a good result next week to secure that spot.

Melissa Leigh took a solid 6th the Lady B's. The battle of the day was in the Women's A race. Becca was just behind Rebecca Graham by only a few points and needed to beat her to take the jersey back for the series. The two went back and forth for most of the race with Rebecca G. taking it at the end by about 10-15 seconds. It was a nail biter to watch. After the race, the two gave each other a hug.

One race to go. It has been a long, but good season. ACC is second in one team competition and first in the other. Nate and John have won their series. Becca is in second and Jack is in third. Josh Jackson is 5th in the B's. The entire team has come together to make it happen. Now we just need to plan the ACC team Christmas party.

Photos by Drew Graham (Rebecca's husband).

Camp Jordan Tennessee

2010-11-16T10:25:00.000-08:00

November 14th was the Camp Jordan Tennessee race. This by far was the longest drive for the ACC team. The course was definitely a test of bike handling skills in that it had plenty of switchbacks, off camber turns and two sand pits. It started raining right before the Masters race turning the challenging course into a real test of cantilever brakes.

Nate and Phelan took 3rd and 8th respectively in the Master's race. Nate just needs to have one decent finish to secure the leader's jersey for the series. Dave Fahrion, Kelly, and Steve Jackson all raced the C's. Apparently, there was some scoring issues so stay tuned for their official results.

The rain stopped before the single speed race. Phelan picked a low gear again for the win. Matt took 4th after leading on the first lap. Kelly took 8th and Dave 9th. John also just needs to finish one more race to lock in the SS leader's jersey. Matt is now tied for third.

Becca stepped up big time in the A race. Race promoter, Kim Flynn, once again soloed away for the win. Becca fought off numerous attacks and took second over the likes of Rebecca Graham and Kim Sawyer. The Women's A group has one talented group of ladies. Any one of them could win the series in any given year. She is now second by only a few points in the series.

Master Jack took 4th after dropping a chain midway through his race. He held strong and finished just behind number 3. He is third in his series.

We now have a two week break before the next race at Serenbe. With only two races to go, ACC is second in the overall and first in the combined team competitions. We have two riders in series leader's jerseys, one in second and two in third. Go ACC!

Jim Miller Park/Marietta

2010-11-10T08:12:00.000-08:00

Last weekend was the 7th race of the series. We are now feeling the aftermath of travelling and racing every week. Jim Miller Park featured a classic cross course with some singletrack and plenty of grass. The "morning A race" had a classic ending with Nate out sprinting Brady Rogers in a drag strip finish. This may seal the series leaders jersey for Nate. Phelan placed 6th, Laddie 8th and Brian Culpepper 14th.

The C race looked like something from the Northeast with 56 racers going over the first set of barriers. Kelly, Dave and Steve Jackson all held their own in the big field. ACC continued its single speed podium success with Phelan 2nd and Laddie 3rd. Matt, Kelly and Dave also competed for their second race of the day. Melissa leigh placed 5th in the Women's B's.

Josh Jackson just missed the top 10 in the B's, Brian 19th and Matt Kogel 30th. Cross boss, Ross Douglas, graced us with his presence in the B's as well. Becca had an off day and took 6th in the A race losing the leaders jersey in the process.

ACC looks good in the series with three to go. Nate has the leader's jersey in the Masters and John is in 3rd. John also has the SS leader's jersey. Becca is in 2nd and Jack Phelan is 3rd in their series competitions. Josh Jackson has 5th in the B's. ACC is in second in the team competition and is leading the combined.

Next week is a long drive to Tennessee. Stay tuned.

Halloween!

2010-11-02T12:12:00.000-07:00

Sunday was the day to dress up and take your bike to Life University in Marietta. A small contingent of ACC riders made the trip. Highlights include three podiums. Nate battled it out for 2nd in the Masters and Phelan took 5th after crashing early. J. Phelan took 1st in single speed and Matt Kogel placed third after a six hour MTB race the day before. Melissa Leigh took 5th in the Women's B race after running a half marathon on Saturday. Dave Fahrion crashed in both of his races but held strong. Josh Jackson battled a stacked B field for 12th. Becca donned her best holiday attire to take 5th in the A race and Jack attacked the last lap for a 4th in the Junior race.

All in all a good weekend. Three leaders jerseys in the series and ACC has a nice lead in both of the team competitions.

Grit and Determination

2010-10-26T08:47:00.000-07:00

October 23rd and 24th - two days of racing at the Oglethorpe Speedway Park in Savannah. One cross race is enough for most competitors, much less two ,or for some ACC riders, four in one weekend. Grit and determination is what it takes to compete over two days and that is exactly what ACC brought to the lowcountry.

ACC anchor, Nate Zukas, continued his domination of the veteran's race winning by a wide margin on both days. John Phelan crashed hard in Saturday's race but held on for a 3rd place podium finish. Kelly Edwards knocked out a top 10 in the C race Saturday and Dave Fahrion 12th. The B race had Josh Jackson just out of the top group with a 5th. Matt Kogel placed sixth and Robert took 12th. Two more podiums for ACC in the Single Speed race with John P. 2nd, and young Matt 3rd. Kelly took 9th for his second race of the day.

Grit and determination was on full display in the Women's A race. Becca Phelan won under the moonlight against a stacked field. It may have been the best win of her career.

Sunday brought humidity and a longer course with added singletrack. Phelan nursed a slow leak in the Masters race and just finished. Robert continued his tradition of two races taking a 7th in the Masters and a 12th in the B's. Dave Fahrion started the 45+ race for the first time.

The clouds opened up before the next set of races turning the sandy venue into a true cross course. The single speed race was a display of orange and blue with Phelan 1st, Matt 2nd, Josh Bennett 5th, and Kelly 8th. Matt showed a lot of courage by catching his teammate almost to the line. Jack Phelan took a third in the muddy juniors race.

Josh Jackson hung tough in the B's only to suffer an untimely flat on the last lap. He still took 6th. Cross Boss, Ross, took a 13th. Becca added another podium with 3rd in the Women's A race.

All in all it was great weekend for the team. In the words of the race announcer, "ACC dominated the Speedway".

Dahlonega 10/17/10

2010-10-21T10:24:00.000-07:00

A small of group of ACC racers made the trip to Dahlonega for the third race of the GA series. They were faced with an unbelievably tough course with many racers choosing to ride mountain bikes. Team ACC had none of that nonsense. The first half was full of technical switchbacks, dangerous downhills and a gravel run up. The last half was all uphill....road and grass.

Nate Z. continued his domination of the Masters race by leading from the start and never looked back. He earned back the leader's jersey he lost last week. John Phelan took his first Masters podium with a third place finish. Kelly Edwards took a top 10 in the C race and Dave F. took 15th out of almost 50 racers.

John, Kelly and Matt Kogel all raced the single speed race in addition their regular event. Phelan ran a 38x25 to take the win and his second podium of the day. Matt placed 6th and Kelly 12th. Laddie raced a stacked mens B field and placed a respectable 11th.

Becca wore the leader's jersey but had her hands full in the A race. Kim Flynn caught almost half of the Men's B field for an overwhelming victory. Becca hung tough with a top 5 placing. Jack Phelan just missed a podium spot with a 4th.

Three podium spots and consistent racing leaves ACC in the lead for both team competitions. Up next, Savannah.

Great Augusta Race!

2010-10-12T12:11:00.000-07:00

This past weekend the ACC hosted the second race of the Georgia Cross Series. Ross once again promoted a great race with great course. The new course had plenty for everyone - tight switchbacks, double barriers, and a great run up.

The ACC team was ready to defend its home field advantage. The Masters 35 race had Nate Zukas in the leaders jersey duking it out with Brady Rogers. Unfortunately, Nate had to succumb to a slow leaking tire for second. John Phelan placed a respectable 6th. Nevin Lambert showed up on short notice to take 4th in the 45 + race.

The C race had newcomer Samuel Herberg taking a top 10. Randy DuTeau took 11th after several weeks of not riding. Dave Fahrion placed 18th after flatting on the last lap.

The single speed race had a battle at the front with John Phelan leading much of the race only to be nipped at the line for second. Josh Bennett took 8th in the midst of an asthma attack.

The B race was chock full of ACC talent . Laddie just missed a podium once again with a 4th place finish. Josh Jackson took 8th, Eric Stuckart 12th, Brian Culpepper 13, Robert Woldring 14, and young Matt Kogel 16th.

Becca Phelan battled with bruised ribs to take her first podium of the year in the Women's A race. That result also gave her the leaders jersey for next week.

Nate Z. took it for the team and raced the A's in the afternoon finishing 7th. All in all, the team put in a great collective effort. This was enough to put us in the lead for the team competitions! Thanks again to Ross for all of his hard work and leadership.

It's here...

2010-09-30T19:17:00.000-07:00

First race of the season is this weekend.. Should be a good weekend for the team as well as give us all a "reality" check to see where we are fitness wise.. I know I'm screwed, but most of the guys are riding strong.. Should be a good crowd as the race is at a fall festival event.. Wish us luck!

LONG day...

2009-11-16T05:40:00.000-08:00

This weekend took us to Paulding Cty. for an great and long day of racing.. I think tired legs are setting in and the faces show it.. Season is in the middle basically, but the traveling is getting tiresome.. Great racing by Nate, Becca and Jack this weekend.. Matt is knocking on a top 5 finish in the C category and Robert put in an awesome ride in the B race after getting a flat.. Adam ran the last half of the course to get us some points and John got a great top 5 finish in the SS race..

Next week we go on the Barnsley Gardens in the last "long drive" race of the season..

What a day!!!

2009-10-25T18:46:00.003-07:00

What a day it was in Augusta!! Great course, great weather = kick ass time by everyone.. Congrats to Becca on getting her FIRST ELITE victory today.. Great ride by Dan who came from like 25 back to finish 9th in the B race. I'd say he and Kyle are ready for La Ruta.. Nate, Brian, Kyle and John all did TWO races and really did a great job representing the team.. Matt moved up to the C's as well.

More updates later.. Here's a few fotos of the action!

What a day!!!

2009-10-25T18:46:00.001-07:00

IT is here..

2009-10-24T07:04:00.001-07:00

That's right everyone.. The 4th annual Augusta Cross race is tomorrow at beautiful Lake Olmstead Park.. Please come out and support the ACC team as we host what is sure to be a great event! Races start at 10:00 with the elite race starting at 1:30..

Practice Practice Practice..

2009-10-11T19:02:00.000-07:00

Well after the first race everyone seems to realize where they stand or don't stand.. This week we were able to practice on the course, which has been nice.. I think it's a great course and will surely be tough for all.. Can't really say it suits anyone style of riding.. Maybe the power riders, but we shall see..

Till next time.. Keep the rubber side down.. Will upload more photos soon.

1 Down, 8 To Go!

2009-10-05T19:10:00.001-07:00

Wow, first race of the 09 season and what a great weekend of racing it was.. Sure we all were maybe hoping for more, but overall, I think everyone had fun and was glad to get the season going again..

No results have been posted yet, but we all know Matt won his race and Dan put on one hell of a ride in the men's B race..

Good day of racing guys and Becca!

The Race Is On!

2009-08-11T19:07:00.001-07:00

The 4th annual Augusta Cross Coalition is on.. Oct. 25th at Lake Olmstead Park. If you'd be interested in being a sponsor and participating in the great event.. Please contact me: Ross Douglas @ mosovich@comast.net

We're back!

2009-07-27T19:24:00.000-07:00

JT taking home the trophy and a little cash!

I ran the steps and this is what Drew made me out to be! Now only if I can do this during cross season!

Well boys and girls that time of year is rapidly approaching... CROSS SEASON..

Yes, I know, it's 97 degrees outside with 99% humidity, but come on, you know you're ready to suffer!

Speaking of which.. JT and I have been representing ACC at the Canal Crown series that Drew and Dustin have been putting on at the canal trail.. I highly recommend you come out and support the cause and test to see where your fitness is.. So far it's been a lot of fun.. Next race is Aug. 6th at the trail.. So far JT is cleaning house, so someone needs to come give him a challenge..

Sortie secteur # 27

2009-04-17T09:23:00.001-07:00

Sortie secteur # 27
Originally uploaded by sdvti

Wouldn't this be fun.. ONLY 26 more sectors to go!

Martijn Maaskant - Paris Roubaix

2009-04-13T19:57:00.001-07:00

Martijn Maaskant - Paris Roubaix
Originally uploaded by Garmin Slipstream Pro Cycling Team

I'd love to be here!!

Long time no type..

2009-04-01T19:01:00.000-07:00

William

Me showing off the ACC colors at FATS

Ian and I at the Giant Demo day..

Yeah, I know, it's been a while.. With nothing going on much cross wise, it kinda gets hard to come up with stuff..

Update.. New baby.. William, Ian is now 3 and life is good..

If you haven't been by Andy's lately, drop by, shop looks awesome with new floors.. If you're looking to get a new MTB, ck out the Anthem.. I got and X2 and LOVE it.. I mean SWEET..

IT band is getting better and I hope to be doing long rides soon.. Like REAL soon.. Don't forget.. The DAM ride is coming up April 19th.. This is a good cause we should all try to support..

Also, PLEASE volunteer for one of the work days that SORBA puts on.. It is great exposure for us as a team/club.. I've done about 10 hours of work at the canal trail and it is awesome, and have done one 4 hour work party at FATS with those guys, it's fun and you really get to see what kind of work goes into our local trails.... Yeah, I could've been riding those 14 hours, but I did something to make our local cycling scene a better place for all.. They have a mission and it's great helping out.. Trust me, you'll be tired when you're done, but you'll be so glad you gave something back for the cause.. I know I did!

Blah Blah Blah...

2009-03-03T19:30:00.000-08:00

Well, it's that time of the year, the "blahs".. Yes, as par for the course I've over done it a bit and now am sidelined with the old IT band syndrome.. Perfect timing I guess with new baby and such.. Hope to be back on the bike soon though as I'm really getting out of shape fast.. Did half hour on the rollers tonight, stretched a good bit afterward and hope that will help..

Classics season is upon us and I can't wait for the biggies.. Reading Will's journal tonight on velonews just gets me super pumped.. What a life those guys get to live.. I'd just like to experience it once.. Oh well, maybe in the next life, of course with my luck, I'll be a NY taxi cab driver who likes to eat hot dogs..

Till next time!

Southern Cross=Mission Accomplished!

2009-01-25T18:19:00.001-08:00

The view from the top of the mtn.. It was worth it.. I guess..

Lucky no. 23, it's Ian's b-day no. Notice how clean I look..

Gonna be a wet day.. This was taken before it started raining..

Too many miles of this

and this.. Super soft mud with nothing hard around it makes the climbing that much more enjoyable.. I was smiling the whole time though!!

The run up.. Ah, you almost needed a rope, I climbed it on my knees. No kidding!

Afterward of course the sun came out!! What's that all about..

I have to admit I was a nervous wreck Friday night knowing that Saturday would either be good, or suck REALLY bad.. After talking with some guys Sat. morning at Hardees, I knew I would be okay.. Seemed they hadn't gotten any of the info about the race except the initial one that had directions.. They didn't know it was "in the mountains"..

So I get there, get registered and it starts raining.. Not a good sign, it had rained most of the night, so I knew it would be wet, but I hate starting off riding wet.. So we gather around and are warned of a couple of things.. A. bears, B. a rabid raccoon that had chased one of the guys trying to mark the course, C. due to lack of a 4wd vehicle the day before, some of the course wasn't marked yet, but they were trying to get to that area then by borrowing a jeep.. "A jeep?" one of the guys asked. "yes, a jeep, there is snow and ice on top of the mtn" came the reply.. That's when I knew I had the correct bike! My trusty Giant XTC..

A few days before I was warned NOT to bring a cross bike, the gearing would be too big and the roads were trashed due to snow and ice melting.. Sure enough, I think the only thing dry I rode on all day was the paved road..

I got a good start I guess, but then had to stop after about two miles to adjust my front brake.. The housing broke and the pads wouldn't get off the rim.. Once fixed, sort of, I was on my way, alone.. I quickly caught up to a group of guys I'd share most of the day with..

After about an hour or more, my computer I guess had too much mud in it, we hit the bottom of the endless hill.. I never knew a road could go up so long in Ga. We climbed for I know over two hours.. NUTS!!! This is when I REALLY knew I'd made the correct bike choice. At mile no. 18, there was a supply drop where you could change out your bottles or anything you had brought.. I had put in two new bottles and four GUs.. This was about 2/3rds up the climb.. As I take off a guy drives by and says, "there's a big bear around the bend, becareful".. Great, my legs are going fast, I'm still climbing and now a big bear is going to chase me.. Well, fortunately I didn't see the bear, but the climbing got a lot more steeper.. I reluctantly dropped to the granny gear and passed some guys that were walking.. Yes, walking..

Once to the top, which seemed to take another eternity, the descent arrived.. This was supposed to be seven miles of heaven.. Instead, due to the snow melting, it was four miles of pain from the cold air on your wet face from the spray, and three miles of heaven once you got below the clouds and warmer air..

I reached the finish in just under four hours, catching two guys within the last three miles.. One said to me something I like this: "dude, I'm so done, I can't even feel my legs" Thing his, he still had to do the cross course portion, which I won't comment on..

So, all in all, a great day.. I was totally pumped with how it went.. I got 32nd out of 57 starters. The event I thought was well organized and planned out.. I hope they do more of them, I'll surely sign up!

Something everyone should try next year for sure..

Till next time!

Getting ready...

2009-01-19T18:44:00.000-08:00

Five days before Southern Cross and I'm one tired puppy.. Had some really good MTB rides lately to get that final build up.. Will recover most of this week with a final ride Thursday.. I'm excited yet nervous.. I really have no idea of what to expect.. Should be fun, did 3.5 hours on the MTB today and still felt good when I had to stop.. I think that's a good sign..

Till Next week! Oh, and hope for warmer weather!!

A Saturday Ride..

2009-01-10T20:03:00.000-08:00

A lot of talking on this ride..

Not exactly the best way to start a ride..

Relaxing day...

ACC

Erik cruising along...

Today was a beautiful day.. I met Erik, Ed and JT out at Ft. Gordon for a nice steady ride.. Should've known it was going to be interested when JT deafened us all when he blew his tire up! That of course led to more adventure when we were probably farthest from the cars.. We decided to do the big loop, then the small loop and then another loop in a different area I'd never ridden. Well after our slight delay due to JT's blowout, we got started.. Weather was nice, wind actually wasn't too bad and the company was great!

The adventure began when JT had yet another flat.. The flat was not really the issue.. The issue was I was the only one with a tube.. Unfortunately I picked up the wrong seat pack and that tube as for 30 mm tires, not 23 mm tires.. So, I also had a patch kit, so we decided we'd just patch it.. Well, a patch kit is only good if it has glue.. Uh, no glue.. I don't know what happened to it, but it wasn't in the pack.. So, we're back to trying to get a 30 mm tube in a 23 mm tire.. JT finally gets it in and we're off again..

We ended up doing the big loop and the small loop, about 38 miles.. I thought of doing another loop, but don't want to kill myself before tomorrow's ride, which I hope will be DRY!

And on the fourth day the legs said...

2009-01-04T16:35:00.000-08:00

"Dude, no more riding in the rain, let's sleep in"... and so I did..

I got to M'ville Wed. and went to a New Years party with Ian for a while, then took him home and decided to crash at a friends house so I could cut loose.. I don't know though, I just wasn't feeling the "get stupid drunk" feeling.. Plus, I really wanted to have some good days of riding and knew this would not help out at all.. So, I did the right thing, had a few beers and watched everyone else get wasted.. I went home about 2:00 and had a good time..

Party time.. It was really cold, but thanks to the fire and a few drinks, everything was all right!

Not a good situation when you're totally toasted after a ride.. Thank goodness Michael had the day off.. It wouldn't have been a nice ride back to my mom's house in the rain with no food, drink or money!!

Now this hill doesn't look bad, but it is especially your fifth time up it.. And that gravel is there because soft sand is under it..

My favorite section, simply beautiful... I had a deer come so close to hitting me, I could feel the breeze as she came by..

This is the start, very nice facilities..

I got up Thurs. and headed out to Bartram Forest for a two hour ride.. It was nice and sunny.. Good ride, but rode with a group some, so I didn't get the full workout I was looking for..

Friday I decided to do a road ride, but with all the Kaolin mines running full blast decided to go back to Bartram.. I had a GREAT workout!! It was drizzly, but I did 30 miles, which doesn't sound like much, but it's really hilly out there and rough.. I rode for 2:35 out there only for it to start raining half way through.. I was so wasted afterward and then realized I left my lights on AND I had no one to call.. I finally came up with someone and wouldn't you know when they got there a forestry truck drove up..

Saturday was out at the airport loop, which has a 7.5 mile loop that can be really hilly if taken the right way.. I did the hilly ride way.. That's what I need.. HILLS.. Of course, it drizzled the whole time, making a wet ride.

This morning of course it was raining, so I slept in, but was rewarded by sunlight after lunch.. So, I did 25 miles and had a super workout.. Focused on each hill and my HR, which is the key to getting better..

My legs are toasted now, but I'm psyched..

BTW, Bob shared a profile shot of the Southern Cross route, it's going to be BRUTAL!!

One final note.. If your in the market for some cool pro stuff or embrocations, ck out www.tscyclingusa.com

I just got some stuff from them, there was an issue, and they totally took care of me.. Great service and good prices.. Thanks Don for the help!! www.tscyclingusa.com

Till next time..

Four days of riding..

2008-12-31T07:26:00.000-08:00

Well, as the year approaches an end, thank goodness, it's time to think of 09.. As for training, I actually started on Monday and so far so good.. I did a 1 hour ride on my cross bike Monday and a MTB ride with Eric N. last night.. Today I will rest and recover from the last three days of riding..

I'm off the rest of the week and going to M'ville through Sunday.. While there, I've got some great rides picked out.. I plan on riding my road bike Thurs./Sat. and the cross bike on Fri./Sun. Should be a really good block of riding.. Thurs. route is a 30 mile loop with some killer hills, with the cross route being a good dirt road route that is about 5 miles, but it's a good circuit, with one really long hill that is pretty much all sand.. So, cross your fingers and let's hope the IT band holds out.. I've been stretching all week and have a new tube of Icy Hot!!

My goals for the new year are to lose some wt., I'd really like to drop down to 170 and of course go into cross season in much better shape next year with my goal to do the USGP in Ohio in October.. I'm also thinking of doing just the Bs next year in the Ga. series.. Should be interesting..

Happy New Year everyone!!

Anyone know..

2008-12-29T17:56:00.000-08:00

How to post videos? Here's a great one!!!

www.youtube.com/watch?v=rNVKeDfQuOk

A little rain to make it complete..

2008-12-28T11:19:00.001-08:00

So, I got up this morning expecting to find fog and drizzel, but to my surprise it was SUNNY!! Ah, SUN I've missed you so.. I quickly got up, got ready and was off to meet the group.. Having a half a pack of oatmeal isn't a good way to prepare for a ride, but it was better than nothing.. Great route picked out today and by the time I got home I had 53 miles..

Leg felt good, but I used about half a thing of icy hot, it's still hot now even after a shower.. We'll see how Tuesday goes, that'll be the day the pain would normally set in. I stretched real good before the ride and after, so I hope to be good to go.. Should get in two really good rides on Thurs. and Friday in M'ville.. I hope it doesn't rain anymore so I can go ride the dirt road loop there..

Great ride today though, I felt comfortable the whole ride and managed for the most part to keep the HR in check..

Zolder World Cup

2008-12-27T20:41:00.001-08:00

Zolder World Cup
Originally uploaded by Estebon Buncier

You just have to wonder what the team kit looks like that goes with this bike...

Weather..

2008-12-27T19:42:00.000-08:00

Anyone ever notice when you get time off of work the weather sucks? I did three hours on the FATS Forest Service roads and am whiped out! That's some great riding without even touching the trails.. It was a good work out, but the IT band is telling me about it today.. I've been stretching and doing the roller. I can't let that thing creep back up on me or life will totally suck!! Last time it got bad I could only ride for 45 min. at a time and that was spinning lightly.. Totally sucked.

Hope to do the group ride tomorrow although the weather looks like it could be a crap ride.. Of course Monday it'll probably be sunny and beautiful..

Anyone ever look at facebook? WOW, now that's a cool site.. I feel like I've reunited with half of my high school class and friends from college..

Diegem is tomorrow, be interesting to see if Page races.. Dude's gotta be hating life right now, but hopefully everything will clear it self out.. Hopefully it'll be on the internet..

Sven Nys

2008-12-25T18:43:00.001-08:00

Sven Nys
Originally uploaded by Enirel

If I could only have his legs for one race...

Nice roads..

2008-12-24T18:53:00.001-08:00

IMGP3074
Originally uploaded by MollyCameron

Just imagine miles and miles of this.. Video courtesy of Molly...

Video from Molly in Belgium..

2008-12-24T18:49:00.001-08:00

Our local cyclocross scene.
Originally uploaded by MollyCameron

This is funny.. Wish I was in Belgium.. NOT FREAKING AUGUSTA!!

Windy day = GREAT ride...

2008-12-21T16:00:00.000-08:00

Great day for a ride.. Windy, cloudy, sprinkly, and sunny.. Robert and I decided to bag FATS and go out to Ft. Gordon.. I think it was a good call.. I'm sure the trails were wet and I like to think those guys at SORBA would appreciate our respecting trail use common sense..

We decided to do the big loop and decide from there.. We did the first one and with a nod of the head quickly took the split to the left as not to think to much about our decision.. We chose correctly, at least that was what I was hoping.. Robert was riding strong and I felt like was holding my own.. Robert did a mtb ride the day before with Dan and Jake, so I'm sure he was a little tired, but he wasn't showing it today..

Overall a great ride.. Wind was really rough, but we both rode with no drafting as to get the best work out possible and we did!! We're doing the same ride Wed. if anyone is interested.. Two big loops, no compromises!

Robert tightening up the shoes getting ready to dish out some pain..

Me responding the pain dishing... I suck at climbing...

Fueling with for lap 2

Obviously before the beating started..

The days steed.. Heavy, but will pay off in the long run...

Now this is a monitor

Tired legs...

2008-12-19T18:38:00.000-08:00

Not much going on this week, so I've had some time to ride.. I did Tues and Thur. SS bike on my 1 hour loop.. Legs were pretty tired from Tuesday, then Wed. I went out to Ft. Gordon and did 37 miles... Thursday legs were dead, but I got the whole work out in.. Didn't ride today and won't tomorrow.. Hope to go to FATS on Sunday.. Need to get in some off road miles to get ready for Southern Cross..

Hope I can go out there twice next week..

Cut, It's a wrap..

2008-12-14T19:50:00.000-08:00

Let's hope we see more of this next year!!

Jake warming up in Blairsville...

Kyle climbing in Blairsville..

John Allison killing out out of the "circle of death" in Conyers..

Kyle hitting the barriers in Dallas..

The dynamic duo..

Dan, the rider formally known as ____, climbing in Rome..

Kyle, Dan and Jake cking out the goods trying to decide if they've got enough crap..

The Wii wiz.. Genoveve (I can't spell) is a Wii and Pokeman machine!!

Well, the season is finally really over.. I think most of us really didn't know what to do today.. It's usually that way right after the season ends.. It's the first Sunday in eight weeks that we weren't getting ready for race day at 8:00 am or waking up in a strange bed that isn't nearly as comfortable as the one we have at home.. I for one was up and riding at 8:30 in the slush at Bartram Trail getting ready for my next big event that will come up in January.. I hope it's good weather, because this morning riding in the wet and cold sucked... I can't imagine doing it for 3+ hours, 1.5 hours was long enough for me today..

We had our season end party tonight.. I think everyone had fun.. Kyle and I gave Chad a jersey as a going away present and we all enjoyed just visiting.. It's funny, you go to practice and to the races week in and week out, but you never really get to know the people you bond with until the season is over..

Thanks for coming over everyone.. Michele and I enjoyed having you over and Ian's so worn out he practically passed out when put in the bed..

Have a happy and safe holiday season..

Till next year..

The withdrawal begins..

2008-12-09T20:12:00.000-08:00

Here's to you guys, thanks for a great season.. Can't wait till next year!!
Chris with Loose Nuts hooking me up with a vital feed during the race.. PBR actually goes down pretty good when your heart rate is at 177 bpm.. Thanks guys, you made the year and races the much more entertaining!! (Photo provided by Ben of Loose Nuts)

So it's Tuesday night and no practice.. So, to settle into the "no practice" zone I went for a ride on the SS bike.. I've got to ramp up endurance now to get ready for the Southern Cross race in Ellijay next month.. I've got about six to seven weeks to get ready to get ready for a 60 mile cross race! What was I thinking???

So back to Sunday.. Ben posted on the comments that we rock, but put an address of fotos that won't work.. Ben, please post the link again.. I need those fotos..

Here's a few pics from Sunday..

Team party this Sunday, so that should be fun.. What will we do the next Sunday though.. Hmm.. Dirt road ride anyone???? Hell no Kyle we ain't riding at 6:30!!!

Last race of the season and I was so feeling like crap.. It's amazing what a little cold can do to you in just three days..
Our new comer Chad getting on the podium for his last race of the season and probably last Ga. race.. I told Kyle at our last practice that I bet Chad would podium before the series was over.. He was putting 110% efforts in at every practice to learn as much as possible and make the most of his time.. Chad came to us via California via the military and heads back next week to sunny and I'm sure warmer California.... Thanks for joining us Chad, it was fun having you around and you'll be missed..
Super B on top and in charge! Next year should be REALLY interesting.. I'm confident she'll still be on that podium...
Bob, you are the man.. Guy has serious calf injury two weeks ago, comes back to take the series' final race.. Good luck at nationals and I'll see you in January for Southern Cross..

Matt pushing it up the run up.. That leader jersey looks nice.. How many of those did you get Matt?
The boys sucking down some cold ones after the race.. Thanks to Loose Nuts for sharing the brew, I have to admit, taking a beer feed works a lot better than you would think.. I highly recommend it..
Ah, soaking in the tub the night before the race... 30 degrees outside, 104 degrees in the tub!! Don't worry, we did a "hand check" every few minutes.. Probably should've done a "foot check", but we won't talk about that..

Till next time!!

DALLAS: THE FINALE!!

2008-12-07T18:48:00.000-08:00

Loose Nuts team bike...
Men's B podium..
Single Speed Podium
Dude, when you come out of retirement, you're supposed to shave your legs!

Kyle in the early going in the Master's race..

Kyle and Robert discussing the chill in the air and Melissa telling Becca about freak show she missed the night before with four white guys in a hot tub..

Wow, it just seems like yesterday we were getting ready to start the season and today it's over..

What a GREAT year we have all had.. This is only our 2nd year as a team and we rocked the house!! 2nd place in BOTH team categories, TWO 1st place series category overall wins, Becca in the women's Bs, Matt in the men's Bs. TWO second place category wins, John in the men's Cs, Kyle in the SS and a lot of podium positions.. We were on multiple podiums EVERY weekend!! WHAT A HUGE YEAR!! All I can say is we will be one of the most talked about teams coming in to next year and are going to have our hands full with so many riders moving up a category.. But that is a positive thing..

Hat's off the Phelan clan for their one two punch in the B and C races, Matt for his dominance in the B category and to Kyle for his dedication in the SS category.. Many of us have had HUGE performances and at least one of us come out of retirement ;)... I don't know where to start except to say thank you all for making this the best season ever..

You guys all rocked the house through the lows and the highs you stuck together as a team and all pitched in to help each other, whether it was helping someone set up their bike, letting them borrow parts, clothes, whatever.. Everyone pitched in.. If a teammate was having a bad day, you guys encouraged them to hang in there.. If a teammate was injured, you offered your support.. Even if a teammate needed a buck, you didn't hesitate to offer up one or two.. (I forgot my ck book today and didn't think I had enough cash, Jake quickly and selflessly offered to pay my entry) You don't see that on many teams, if any! That's what makes us a unique group.. Everyone lends each other a hand... I've had more than one person notice and mention this to me.. To me, this is what being on a team and having a team is all about... TEAMWORK!!

I'll post a race report probably tomorrow night.. If you have any pictures, please email them to me, I only have a few..

The curse..

2008-12-05T09:05:00.001-08:00

You know how when every thing seems to be going well and you say.. "wow, first cross season I haven't gotten sick during." Famous last words.. So, I've been fighting a cold all week and yesterday it finally got me down. So, I've been in the bed since 9 last night, eating zinc like it's candy hoping for a miracle.. Looks like I'll be a spectator this weekend/team photographer/ supporter..

Lesson learned.. never comment on your health during cross season!

Till next time!!

Mud and running..

2008-12-03T17:45:00.001-08:00

Jake getting ready for his next wrestling match at Ft. Yargo..

Kyle finally on the podium.. Shey looks way to enthused...

The crew..

Matt hammering at Conyers 2

Spanky totally focused..

Okay, so I know you are all going to be disappointed, but this is going to be a quickie.. I'm sick, my kitchen is torn to heck and I gotta get ready to go out of town for work tomorrow.. So, here's the down and dirty..

We did good... Okay, just kidding, we did real good.. Conyers no. 2 was just that.. A race filled with no. 2 all over the place.. Probably the hardest race I've ever done.. The course was hard as it is, but add to that about 2 inches of rain and you've got one heck of a mess.. The team did well however, with Becca making an awesome comeback to win her race, John pretty much doing the same to get 3rd again, Kyle getting 3rd in the SS race and Spanky getting 6th in the B race.. Matt put on a show of force in the B race while Robert dabbled here and there and got 16th.. This was Robert's first weekend back to racing and he did it balls out! He did three races, something I couldn't quite pull off.. Robert, you da man!!

I had an okay race, but during the SS race, I broke my chain tensioner and my chain went in the wheel, so to insure points, I ran the whole freaking course.. Sorry to those I snapped at near the finish, I can get a little testy sometimes, especially when I've just run two miles carrying a broken bike in the rain, I'm pissed about the bike, my result sucks, my hamstring is killing me and someone's yelling at me telling me to "go".. I'm working on curbing my explicit vocabulary.. :)

I think everyone had a good time and we're hoping to have a lot of fun for the final.. Dallas always serves up a lot of pain.. Due to illness though, I'm not making any promises. I'm just going to give 100% in the B race and call it a year..

Till I get a chance to update again..

Rumors, Weather, and I got a big ASS!!

2008-11-28T20:34:00.000-08:00

I love this pic! "Hi, I'm Becca (Super B) and I'm ready to kick some ass!"

Junk in the trunk!!!

Now tell me you can't see the whole alphabet going across that thing!!

Ian making sure the oxygen mask works for Sunday's triple hitter!! That's right, I registered for them all!!

Will Mr. Woldring make an appearance? My money is it!!

Rumor 1; I got a call the other day from Mr. Woldring.. Seems he may be going to join in the fun this weekend in Conyers.. Let's hope so, it'd be good to see him get out there and see what he's been missing all year..

Rumor 2; I spoke with Jim tonight and this is going to be a tough course!! It's wet already before the rain, so now it's REALLY going to be wet.. Word to the wise.. Don't wear that white jersey, it's gonna get dirty!

Rumor 3; Brett and his son Conner are going to race this weekend.. Yes, finally Mr. Barrier, (Brett can run a set of barriers faster than anyone I've seen!) is going to come out in the elements and join in the fun.. (Brett, you can't use the weather as an excuse, it's cross!)

Rumor 4; I'm going to do three (3) races.. Yes, I've registered for masters, SS and B's.. Should be interesting.. This is how Kyle explained it to me "see, you use the masters as your warm up, do the SS all out, then cool down during the B race" Yeah right, how about this, "I race like mad all three races, then fall over from exhaustion."

Weather; So, it's supposed to rain all day tomorrow and Sat. night.. I just hope it turns out cloudy only on Sunday with a chill, not no full on rain and bitter cold.. I've become a wuss in my older age and just can't handle it like I used to..

I was flipping through some fotos tonight of some of the races and guys.. Why didn't you tell me my ass was so big! The hell with ACC, you could spell the whole thing out across my ass.. I mean you could go ABCDEFGHI and on with the whole alphabet.. All I know is that I gotta shed some ass! So much for taking Ian to McDonalds in the morning, we're having FRUIT!!

See you Sunday!!

I did it.. Well, almost..

2008-11-27T18:01:00.000-08:00

Cold day in Hamme Zogge! Jonathon Page running the steps.. I love steps!!
Coming out of the pits..

Photos courtesy of Bettini Photo

As I sat down to lunch today I thought (must use self control) Well I'm proud to announce that I did it.. well, till M brought out the apple pie AND the whipped creme.. DOH!! That's okay, I did go for a ride this afternoon to burn off those (extra) calories.. :) I rode my SS and I'm wondering how I'm going to pull of this Sunday's quest to do three races.. I mean, that's a lot of racing and the B race starts right after the SS race... That's an hour and five minutes of racing! As it stands now, I'm planning on doing them all.. I just wonder how hard that SS race is going to be and if I'm trying to turn too big a gear.. I'm running a 42x19.. The course is supposed to be flat and fast.. I know Dallas is tough, so I decided I would do it in Conyers instead of trying it in Dallas..

Here's a couple pics from last weeks Super Prestige race in Hamme Zogge, Belgium... Great race and I highly recomment you ck out the highlights at www.crosstube.net

Hope to so take it easy tomorrow.. No shopping for me, interesting thing I did see today was at 12:30, there were people already camped out at Best Buy.. Come on people get a life, what's worth spending your Thanksgiving sitting on a sidewalk in front of a retail store?

Till next time...

Turkey and Bikes..

2008-11-27T08:51:00.000-08:00

Ready to make her debut in the SS class!!
John and Chris neck and neck.. (notice the differences in these set ups..) Photo courtesy of Loose Nuts cycling team..

So Thanksgiving his here and it's time to do what we all love to do.. EAT!! I'm headed to my ma in laws to chow down, but will try to control myself as I know this gorging will not help my results on Sunday..

Speaking of Sunday, Conyers race 2 is coming up and we're hoping for a another good weekend of racing.. Some questions: Will Super B be able to handle those young rebels from Athens? Will JP be able to handle the other young rebels from Athens that are riding on of all things, FIXED GEAR BIKES? What's up with that!! I mean, you gotta see these guys rides, not exactly what you'd expect to see at a cross race.. But hey, obviously it works for them.. I bet if they were on geared bikes they'd be really giving the B leaders a run for their money.. Can The Kid get back control of the B race and retain that jersey? Lastly, will I beable to step a way from the dessert table? (Probably not, Michele did and apple pie and there is ice cream as well) :)

My goal this weekend is to do three races.. Yeah, I whimped out and didn't go the NC to race there, but I figure Conyers is going to be the best place to break out the SS that I've thrown together.. So, we'll see what happens...

Till next time!

4 Out of 7 Ain't To Bad!!!

2008-11-25T18:51:00.000-08:00

Anyone else notice how much Kyle smiles when he's running the barriers? That's just sick!
   John and his gang of misfits..
   Becca and her arch rival..
   Matt airing out the boys and taking his place on the podium...

"Yeah guys, this roller thing is great.. Just don't move this truck.. "

So, this weekend the team headed over to Ft. Yargo for the Georgia Cross State Championships.. Since I whimped out of the NC races, I decided to shack up with my friends Adam and Nancy in Athens.. (BTW: If you think Nancy's brownies rock, Nancy's got the best hot chocolate in the SE hands down!) I got the Ft. Yargo Sat. afternoon and rode the course some with Adam, Shey, John and Spanky.. Course was typical Yargo, kinda rough, good sand and marbles in some of the corners.. Good course and I like the fact that Dan doesn't change it up, but keeps it consistant..

First race of the day was us old guys.. Slightly chilly, but not too bad.. Brian decided to join Kyle and I for our masters adventure, but unfortunately for Brian, his last name is Culpepper and he took the roll of Mr. NL (Mike Culpepper aka: No Luck) and flatted 100 meters after the start.. Anyway, all he missed was a bunch of guys with rockets tied to their asses, because all I saw was vapor from where I was at.. SUPER fast race from the start, I totally blew up where Brian flatted.. It was nuts!! Congrats Brady on taking the win.. I was 12th and Kyle was 9th.. Good showing..

Next up was JP, staying consistant as he has been all year, he was 3rd after battling it out with the young guns from Athens, these guys and gals know how to have fun at a cross race. Ck out their flickr site and you'll see.. (Hey guys, were you both on fixies or SS? That disc wheel rocks!) Great race especially since he really took a dive in "Marble Alley".. Chad put in a great 4th place and after watching him at practice tonight, he and JP could really put a hurting on those boys in the Dallas race.. Brian managed to survive the start of this race finishing 12th with Jake pulling in 27th.

Super B put on a great show in the women's B race giving Mary a run for her money and ditching the competition all over the course.. I joked with the girls about beating up on Becca, but didn't expect them to literally take a dive, poor girls looked like they got eaten alive by the marbles, although they did seem fine after a few beers.. (BTW: I was really looking forward to that beer feed you guys teased me with) Spanky's wife joined Becca in the race and "I think" had more fun that she's willing to admit.. We just have to encourage her to use that right shifter.. :) Honestly, it won't hurt.. (Thanks for joining us Melissa hope you will come play again)

In the SS race Kyle put a hurting on Shey, (well actually made Shey work real hard) to come in 3rd place. I'm gonna join Kyle next week to see what all the fun is that I'm missing.. Supposedly it's so much fun that my toes will curl! We'll see..

The B race was our final of the day.. This is the race I feel more comfortable in.. My results don't really show it, but at least here I'm not in no mans land the whole race and have other people to ride with, not just ride past me.. I got 29th while The Kid put on a good show finishing a rock solid 2nd and my little buddy Spanky coming in 12th.. From what I hear, the front group was all together and Matt just put the hammer down and it exploded..

All in all, a great weekend, kinda expensive, we killed two sets of carbon wheels, one of us is probably facing shoulder surgery, but it was fun. Right now we're 2nd in the combined and 3rd in the overall.. We've got two riders leading their categories, Becca and Matt, so right now with 2 races to go we are rocking.. The teams that are around us are all older teams with very experienced riders, so for this to be our second year shows we're kickass! Out of 7 podiums, we were on 4 of them..

Next week is Conyers.. To the competition: Eat baby eat, you know you want to just keep on eating that pumpkin pie and turkey leg!! Jim has promised an exciting course with something for everyone except moutain bikers, so we should all do well I hope!!

Till next time!!

If seen, net and take to the nearest cross race..

2008-11-18T19:02:00.000-08:00

The season is half way over now and what a great season it's been. Another good performance this week by the team.. A smaller team this weekend in Blairsville, but still some good results.. The team is still sitting 2nd and 3rd in the two team competitions.. With the team at full tilt this weekend minus one rider, we should add some points to our total to help solidify our position.. Now, if we could get a couple of guys to come out of retirement (hint, hint, you know who you are) we could REALLY add some good quality points..

To sum up the weekend: Super B got 2nd this weekend in the women's B race, JP was 5th in the men's C race after dancing with the course tape with Jake taking pulling in at 26th.. In the men's B race The Kid finished 5th, don't know the story there, but I'm sure it's gotta be a good one with The Cutter making the podium in the SS with a 3rd AND bringing home some bacon in the 35+ race..

This weekend is the state championship race at Ft. Yargo State Park.. Should be some REALLY good racing this weekend with riders coming out of the woodwork to put on a show and maybe throw in some surprises.. Hopefully, we won't have any guys who only do this one race of the year show up and steal the show. I mean, there are guys who race the whole season week after week and then someone shows up and decides "hey, I think I'll go do the state race and ruin their season". Yes, if they are stronger they should win, but come on, it's like you standing in line waiting on a Egg McMuffin and they throw the "it's now lunch only menu" when you get to the line at McDonalds.. I mean, I don't want no damn Quarter Pounder, I want my Egg McMuffin!! I've been standing here fantacising about a Egg McMuffin and you want me to eat a hamburger?? Total bummer..

This weekend will be big for me. I'm doing something different this weekend, well, probably something stupid as well. I used to race two days a weekend in my younger years, but haven't been able to do so in several years because of how the season is set up.. Soooo, I'm going to do the Hendersonville, NC race on Saturday and then turn around and race Ft. Yargo on Sunday.. Here's the big kicker (and something I've never done before) I'm hoping to do 2 races on Saturday and 2 races on Sunday.. In the past, I could race all out on Saturday, and then turn around Sunday and do even better, but I'd only do one race a day. What's up with that? I think it's you get your body over the shock and it's ready to rock the second day.. What ever it is, it's intersting.. If only I could get some Extran.. DOH!! Honestly, I didn't know that was a doping product..

Well, time to go ride the cobbles with Devolder and Gilbert.. It's freaking cold out tonight, so I'm gonna do the rollers.. Ah the fun on sitting and spinning.. Actually, if you've never ridden rollers, give it a whirl, it'll actually work you over more than you think..

Oh, and on a final note, if you see these two cats, grab them by the scruff of the neck and take them to the nearest cross race, I'm tired of answering the same question every freaking week.. (Where's Nate and Robert?)

Till next time..

TJ, I like flannel sheets..

Adam, Will Nancy have fresh brownies?

Rome..

2008-11-10T19:12:00.000-08:00

Our PRO set up in "Hunting for Love" park

This isn't going to end pretty...

Spunky killing it!!

Coach Ian getting me through the warm up..

So you know what they say, NEVER change anything on your bike less then three days before an event no matter what right? WRONG!! I bought a front der. to use for the rest of the year so I could run a double set up since I'm not as strong as I used to be and noticed that the amt. of energy I'm using to push a mamoth gear could be used much more later on when I need it, if I could conserve it for later in the race.. or hell, even after the next hill! So, I didn't change anything and to much regret, there was a hill that a lot of people could ride in a 39x27, that I couldn't ride in a 42x27. Now, I'm not making excuses, I'm fat and out of shape, those are the facts. I'm just saying, instead of 23rd, maybe I could've been 21st!

So, the team rolled into Rome for the fourth race of the series.. Some of the guys camped out the night before in "Hunting for Love" park and I'm glad to report none were violated during the night. The course was a fast course with a good amt. of off camber and some devilish hills that could be ridden with the right gearing, but really wore on you during the race.. We had eight riders in Rome and again had a good weekend, but then again had a rough weekend on the crash and burn department.

First up was Kyle and No Luck (Mike C.) in the masters race.. I have to admit, I slept in guys.. sorry, but I worked real hard so we could all have fun on Sunday.. Kyle was 9th in the 35+ race and No Luck crashed during the warm up and cut his head open. He started the race, but didn't last long..

Next up was JP (John P.) I think for the next race I'm gonna give JP a frame pump to put on his bike so he can take anyone out that is threatening him in the last turn.. After a bad start, JP was up front on lap two.. Great job of keeping his cool and biding his time.. The next few laps were great, he was sitting in the perfect position when on the last ride\run up, there was a crash.. All three went down and unfortunately, the first one up won. What can you do, that's racing.. Still, 3rd out of 60, that's super.. Great job JP of keeping you cool at the start.. Personally, I'd probably blown up from panic.. Jake looked like he was trying out for the WWF, but swears he wasn't trying to kill the guy.. :)

Next up were Super B and Melissa. Super B had her hands more than full today.. Actually, I think the winner of her race could've given the women in the A race a strong run for their money, but I won't go there. Super B got 3rd, but is fighting mad and ready for redemption next week. Melissa was 9th after falling and breaking her wrist\hand.. Great race and determination to hang in there. She drove up that morning, 4 hours, fell hard and still had a respectable finish.. While the women were slugging it out, Kyle was once again, and I don't understand the methology racing the SS race. Today he was 5th, so we got some good points there.. Shey again left everyone wondering if he was really using a SS..

The final race for ACC today was the men's B race. Spunky took his pills, The Kid looked like he was fresh and hungry and I was relaxed and ready for some fun after Coach Ian (see top phot0) guided me through my warmup.. I have to admit, I really like the start.. It's just crazy and aggressive.. Today was NO exception.. You started on a long paved stretch, then did a 180 at the top of the hill on to grass on a sharp off caber turn. I got a great start, got a great angle into the first of camber section, got to throw some elbows and felt great.. Well, then reality hit... So, as I realize I'm gonna blow, I hear Spunky behind me yelling.. I know he's so much stronger than I so I tell him to follow me, I'll take him to the front.. Well, I did my part and it was game over.. I blew like a steam kettle.. I finally settled into a rhythm and unfortunately he hit a big pot hole and his shoulder said uncle, then he said, well, I can't say, I hope more than just the team read this and I don't want the whole world to think we have potty mouths, let's just say it was game over.. Meanwhile, I'm plugging away trying, begging my body to recover, but it just won't do it. Finally, with two laps to go, I get in a groove, just in time for The Kid to come around me like he's on a Sunday cruise.. So, Matt killed them again, and I finished 23rd..

So this weekend, we had three top fives, a win, a broken wrist\hand, a gashed head and a banged up shoulder. I liked last weekend better :) We should be really well positioned points wise going forward.. A couple of heavy Fulton Fliers guys have called it a season, but GTC is hot!

Next up is Blairsville.. I won't be there, so we'll have a guest reporter next time.. Speaking of reporter, Kyle was on the front page of the Rome paper.. There's a link to it on the cross forum.. They said he was someone else, but we all know The Cutter..

I hope to add a photo section, the problem is, we're all so busy racing we forget to take pics.. I'm hoping to get a few from Adam.. I see some other people taking photos, but unfortunately they won't money, and right now, that's a little tight. So, if you have any team pics to donate to the blog, let me know.. Better late than never.. Brad at Chain Reaction donated his photos to last weeks post.. Thanks Brad!

I'm off to install a front der. now.. Coach Ian said that should help me out! We'll see...

You're killing me Troy...

2008-11-06T16:36:00.000-08:00

As the days get shorter we all are aware of what has to happen next.. Trainer Time! Can you think of a better way to spend the evening than with coach Troy and the trainer!! I've come to the conclusion that the only way I'm going to regain any fitness is to start spending time with my favorite person coach Troy.. Let me elaborate on this relationship.. Coach Troy and I have a love/hate relationship. The first ten minutes on the trainer, I'm motivated and really appreciate the time coach Troy has set aside to work with me.. After those ten minutes, I really hate coach Troy.. He makes me sweat and really do a lot of uncomfortable things I don't like doing.. I mean, is sitting on the trainer turning a 53x15 for five minutes standing 30 seconds and sitting for 30 seconds over and over again supposed to be fun? I think not..

This week the team is headed to Rome, Ga. for another exciting weekend of racing.. Should be some great racing and a good time with friends and family..

Can John P. pull off that victory that's been eluding him all year? Will Super B (Becca) pull of another victory in the women's B race? How will The Kid (Matt) do in his first A race? Will Slow Poke (me) be able to get my arse in gear in the masters race and be able to hang in with The Cutter (Kyle)? And finally will Spunky (Dan) remember to take his anti-inflamatory medication so he can race? Ck back Monday for a full race report and fotos!!

Conyers Celebration and Pain..

2008-11-03T19:13:00.000-08:00

The Augusta Cross Coalition (ACC) headed to Conyers Ga. test out their legs against what would be the largest race of the year with a field full of a lot of talent and strength.. Keeping with their showing so far, the team put on a great performance. We had two wins, Rebecca Phelan and Matt Stewart winning the Women's C and Men's B race respectfully with John Phelan getting 3rd and Melissa Liegh getting 3rd in their races.. In the masters race Kyle and Brian both had good races while I sucked totally.. Kyle then jumped in the SS race because he just couldn't get enough.. The big race of the day for the team was supposed to be the B race. Well, things started out quite well, but then I noticed on the second lap my man Dan standing watching the race. WTH? Dan crashed hard in Dahlonega and still hasn't recovered, so maybe in Rome. On the other hand, Matt scorched the B field and I myself actually had a decent race putting in some attacks with the group I was with and having some fun..

So, that was our weekend.. Practice should be good tomorrow, it's cold and rainy tonight, I sure hope it isn't tomorrow..

Eight ACC riders at this race.. Two wins, and two thirds... Not bad..