Training Log Archive: ThumperIn the 31 days ending Oct 31, 2013:
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Thursday Oct 31, 2013 #
Cycling 1:00:00 [3] 15.25 mi (15.2 mph)
ahr:128
IW Cross bike-canal
5 PM
Cycling 1:10:00 [3] 16.5 mi (14.1 mph)
ahr:120
HFW, Canal
Interesting to do a night ride with lights, really enjoyed it but don't trust the lights to go the distance- despite a full charge last night
Amazing what lurks in the darkness, saw foxes, druggies, fuckers, cyclists and runners not lit up and alsorts of other wildlife- reminded me of our first drive to Iten in Kenya at night- something I'll never forget
Interesting to do a night ride with lights, really enjoyed it but don't trust the lights to go the distance- despite a full charge last night
Amazing what lurks in the darkness, saw foxes, druggies, fuckers, cyclists and runners not lit up and alsorts of other wildlife- reminded me of our first drive to Iten in Kenya at night- something I'll never forget
Wednesday Oct 30, 2013 #
7 AM
Cycling 56:51 [3] 14.75 mi (15.6 mph)
ahr:124
Into work
Much colder than anticipated but oh my god the views from the moors were stunning as the sun rose.
Great way to start an inevitably crap day
Much colder than anticipated but oh my god the views from the moors were stunning as the sun rose.
Great way to start an inevitably crap day
12 PM
Fab Abs and T-shirt arms (October week 4 day 3) 20:00 [3]
5 PM
Cycling 59:36 [3] 14.65 mi (14.7 mph)
ahr:117
Excited to get out on the moors with my new lights, thats where I headed.
The moment i got there it flashed for low battery.... despite a full charge, didnt want to risk it so headed back down... grrr
The moment i got there it flashed for low battery.... despite a full charge, didnt want to risk it so headed back down... grrr
Tuesday Oct 29, 2013 #
6 AM
Cycling 57:20 [3] 14.25 mi (14.9 mph)
ahr:127
IW
Felt very cold this morning
Heavy back pack-and the overwhelming feeling that I have been missing a trick all along- much harder work, much higher heart rate..noted
Felt very cold this morning
Heavy back pack-and the overwhelming feeling that I have been missing a trick all along- much harder work, much higher heart rate..noted
12 PM
Fab Abs and T-shirt arms (October week 4 Day 2) 20:00 [3]
5 PM
Cycling 41:53 [3] 11.5 mi (16.5 mph)
ahr:115
HFW... I really dont enjoy cycling in the dark
Cycling intervals (Turbo) 47:00 [3] 18.0 mi (23.0 mph)
ahr:142
6 x 6mins/60s
Resistance 6
Decent effort
150 HR for efforts
Resistance 6
Decent effort
150 HR for efforts
Monday Oct 28, 2013 #
12 PM
Fab Abs and T-shirt arms (October week four day 1) 20:00 [3]
6 PM
Easy Running 13:26 [3] 2.0 mi (6:43 / mi)
ahr:133
Feeling a bit fed up about yesterday I decided there was only one thing that could perk me up, so I did a cheeky run and enjoyed every second of it.
I need ot try and build this up a bit any way as on snow days I would love to be able to run in to work, so.. here goes a little build up
I need ot try and build this up a bit any way as on snow days I would love to be able to run in to work, so.. here goes a little build up
Sunday Oct 27, 2013 #
Cycling (National Hill Climb Champ) 9:36 [3] 2.3 mi (14.4 mph)
I'm not gonna lie. I rocked up here expecting a massive performance. I wanted top 15/20 ish I wanted to raise my game I tapered big and was ready to hurt myself.
Conditions were atrocious. Very wet, very windy, but the wind was a tail wind.
I nervously got in the turbo thinking "I do want to do this" then disaster. My turbo was broken- it ha no resistance whatsoever. It was a case of sit on it and pedal or risk a puncture. 40 mins later I arrived at the start not greatly warmed up.
I was in my chosen gear and ready to roll. A big crowd, photographer in my face-
5..4..3..2..1 oh. Shit.
My chain buckled. My wheel skidded on leaves an clipped in, at the start of the national hill climb championships, I fell off my bike.
Totally humiliated and dejected I walked off.
I stood there in disbelief, just as the heavens opened with hail.
An official kindly came over to console me- he offered me the chance to ride in a DNS place.
10mins later I was off. But I was freezing.
All went to plan until te big ring section where there was insufficient tension on me front derailleur. With freezing cold hands I wrestled with it to change gear, finally I did and I was off. I got to the finish, at least.
Shit time. I'm currently feeling devastated. So frustrated. But, the hardest part of the whole
Thing was te descent. It was absolutely freezing.
Onwards and upwards, next year I'm coming top 10.
Conditions were atrocious. Very wet, very windy, but the wind was a tail wind.
I nervously got in the turbo thinking "I do want to do this" then disaster. My turbo was broken- it ha no resistance whatsoever. It was a case of sit on it and pedal or risk a puncture. 40 mins later I arrived at the start not greatly warmed up.
I was in my chosen gear and ready to roll. A big crowd, photographer in my face-
5..4..3..2..1 oh. Shit.
My chain buckled. My wheel skidded on leaves an clipped in, at the start of the national hill climb championships, I fell off my bike.
Totally humiliated and dejected I walked off.
I stood there in disbelief, just as the heavens opened with hail.
An official kindly came over to console me- he offered me the chance to ride in a DNS place.
10mins later I was off. But I was freezing.
All went to plan until te big ring section where there was insufficient tension on me front derailleur. With freezing cold hands I wrestled with it to change gear, finally I did and I was off. I got to the finish, at least.
Shit time. I'm currently feeling devastated. So frustrated. But, the hardest part of the whole
Thing was te descent. It was absolutely freezing.
Onwards and upwards, next year I'm coming top 10.
Saturday Oct 26, 2013 #
Cycling 43:39 [3] 11.0 mi (15.1 mph)
National Hill climb recce.
Strange expereince with so many others doing the same as me it seemed like the hil climb day itself!
I did two ascents one easy one with efforts on kjey bits and practising my lines for the descents
Did a few starts with hatti holding me and felt one hundred percent ready to rock and roll and quietly confident of raising my game a notch with e good taper, great training blcok and good prep.
Strange expereince with so many others doing the same as me it seemed like the hil climb day itself!
I did two ascents one easy one with efforts on kjey bits and practising my lines for the descents
Did a few starts with hatti holding me and felt one hundred percent ready to rock and roll and quietly confident of raising my game a notch with e good taper, great training blcok and good prep.
Friday Oct 25, 2013 #
6 AM
Cycling 30:00 [3] 8.0 mi (16.0 mph)
ahr:110
Boring easy turbo
5 PM
Cycling 30:00 [3] 8.0 mi (16.0 mph)
ahr:110
Boring easy turbo
Thursday Oct 24, 2013 #
7 AM
Cycling 58:30 [3] 15.25 mi (15.6 mph)
ahr:130
IW
Cycling 58:30 [3] 15.25 mi (15.6 mph)
ahr:120
HFW
Wednesday Oct 23, 2013 #
7 AM
Cycling 50:02 [3] 14.0 mi (16.8 mph)
ahr:128
Tonights session was a session to replicate the National HC on Sund.
I had the perfect session planned on local hills and wen to work with the bike set up as it would be for trhe weekend, but with extra weight, including my new winter light which lit the pitch black country roads up for me on the way in this morning.
The light was mounted on the handlebars with its separate power supply strapped to the top tube as instructed.
I felt great on the way in, enjoying the drizzle and not bothered as I would wash it. I felt good and could not wait for the weekends race, feeling fit and quietly pleased that Saturdays Cx had been cancelled. I didn't want to miss it as it was the hardest course and I wanted to sampled horrible conditions to improve my skills. I would have ridden it if it were on.
Now its out of my hands.
As I got the the hospital there was a traffic jam all the way around to each car park.
I went around the traffic, I didnt feel I was being a twat, it was stationary and no oncoming traffic was on the road. There were roads of leaves on the floor yet I was cornering and riding particularly confidently, spending the entire ride day dreaming about the weekends race. CYcling in the rain ain't so bad!
BANG!! I was on the floor. I knew nothing about it. Or.. I did a bit, I noticed that my power supply was falling off the top tube as I reached for it I just missed it, it flew into the front wheel round and into the forks, throwing me over the bike. I slapped onto the tarmac.
I jumped up as I am now used to in cyclocross. I looked at the bike, something was wrong, the front wheel had buckled, the spokes had snapped.
The rear mech was abit knackered, luckily the frame appeared OK.
People asked if I was ok. Other than feeling a total twat in front of half the hospital workforce I was fine. I rode the wobbly bike to the bike shed. Got off. Ouch!
I looked down my left leg was completely deformed. I totally shit myself.
I went round to A+ E and booked in for an X ray.
With my long wait, luckily things started to settle down, the swelling subsided and my leg looked less deformed, just nasty bruising. Leg ok.
Just need to get the bike fixed in time for the weekend now...
Another warning, just as I was getting confident, that cycling is bloody dangerous.
However, I now know what hitting the road deck at pace feels like, something I've been very scared of.
I had the perfect session planned on local hills and wen to work with the bike set up as it would be for trhe weekend, but with extra weight, including my new winter light which lit the pitch black country roads up for me on the way in this morning.
The light was mounted on the handlebars with its separate power supply strapped to the top tube as instructed.
I felt great on the way in, enjoying the drizzle and not bothered as I would wash it. I felt good and could not wait for the weekends race, feeling fit and quietly pleased that Saturdays Cx had been cancelled. I didn't want to miss it as it was the hardest course and I wanted to sampled horrible conditions to improve my skills. I would have ridden it if it were on.
Now its out of my hands.
As I got the the hospital there was a traffic jam all the way around to each car park.
I went around the traffic, I didnt feel I was being a twat, it was stationary and no oncoming traffic was on the road. There were roads of leaves on the floor yet I was cornering and riding particularly confidently, spending the entire ride day dreaming about the weekends race. CYcling in the rain ain't so bad!
BANG!! I was on the floor. I knew nothing about it. Or.. I did a bit, I noticed that my power supply was falling off the top tube as I reached for it I just missed it, it flew into the front wheel round and into the forks, throwing me over the bike. I slapped onto the tarmac.
I jumped up as I am now used to in cyclocross. I looked at the bike, something was wrong, the front wheel had buckled, the spokes had snapped.
The rear mech was abit knackered, luckily the frame appeared OK.
People asked if I was ok. Other than feeling a total twat in front of half the hospital workforce I was fine. I rode the wobbly bike to the bike shed. Got off. Ouch!
I looked down my left leg was completely deformed. I totally shit myself.
I went round to A+ E and booked in for an X ray.
With my long wait, luckily things started to settle down, the swelling subsided and my leg looked less deformed, just nasty bruising. Leg ok.
Just need to get the bike fixed in time for the weekend now...
Another warning, just as I was getting confident, that cycling is bloody dangerous.
However, I now know what hitting the road deck at pace feels like, something I've been very scared of.
Tuesday Oct 22, 2013 #
7 AM
Cycling 59:20 [3] 15.25 mi (15.4 mph)
ahr:127
IW
Cross bike, very wet but very pleasant
Cross bike, very wet but very pleasant
12 PM
Fab Abs and T-shirt arms 25:00 [3]
5 PM
Cycling 57:30 [3] 15.25 mi (15.9 mph)
ahr:121
HFW
Sunday Oct 20, 2013 #
11 AM
Cycling (Beeley HC) 9:56 [5] 2.3 mi (13.9 mph)
ahr:170
What a day, slightly mixed fortune, but on an overwhelming high as I recover with 2 of Kelham Islands best and a pizza.
I scratched from Riber as I wanted to do well on Beeley.
Warmed up, felt sick felt more sick, got that taste in your mouth where you think you're gonna be sick, but wasn't sick.
5..4..3..2..1 Get off!
Am I gon a be sick, do I feel sick? Nope, I feel goooooood! Game on!
Smashed it out of the saddle got into a rhythm, sat in the saddle and off I went. At the kicker I was out of the saddle and round the corner I saw number 54 (to my 55) I couldn't believe it- particularly as he was a billy big bollcoks pre race.
I executed everything as I had day dreamed about, got the the point where i planned to switch from small ring to big ring and turned the corner, over another kicker. A range rover was turning in the road and I put everything in to squeeze through the little gap it had left- this gave me an enormous perspective of speed and I felt great.
It was now into a headwind along 1000m of flase flat- difficult to know how to ride it, but I did my best and crossed the line in 9.56
Now it was a waiting game to see how that compared. Thie course record is 8.24 which was written in perfect conditions, today wasnt perfect...
Winner 8.34, second 8.51 both prev. National champs.
I was 7th and I am very happy.
After the prizes (a hat for me) I cycled over to Matlcok for Bank,
I knew what gear I needed, I knew how to ride it, this is my best Strava KOM.
With 5 mins to go I panicked. The crowds were huge (and spectacular). I didnt want to cock it up. I was tired. Id done 2 hard races. I decided to drop down 2 gears to start from the pre-planned.
Mistake. I then dropped my gears to early. Mistake.
I worked hard jsut to hit a sufficuent cadenc eot compensate for being in too easier a gear, but it wasnt enough. Another chance went. As it turned out, my legs would have been up to the challenge.
But as ever I learned a hell of a lot. And it was all worth it to walk away fmor Beeley happy.
I scratched from Riber as I wanted to do well on Beeley.
Warmed up, felt sick felt more sick, got that taste in your mouth where you think you're gonna be sick, but wasn't sick.
5..4..3..2..1 Get off!
Am I gon a be sick, do I feel sick? Nope, I feel goooooood! Game on!
Smashed it out of the saddle got into a rhythm, sat in the saddle and off I went. At the kicker I was out of the saddle and round the corner I saw number 54 (to my 55) I couldn't believe it- particularly as he was a billy big bollcoks pre race.
I executed everything as I had day dreamed about, got the the point where i planned to switch from small ring to big ring and turned the corner, over another kicker. A range rover was turning in the road and I put everything in to squeeze through the little gap it had left- this gave me an enormous perspective of speed and I felt great.
It was now into a headwind along 1000m of flase flat- difficult to know how to ride it, but I did my best and crossed the line in 9.56
Now it was a waiting game to see how that compared. Thie course record is 8.24 which was written in perfect conditions, today wasnt perfect...
Winner 8.34, second 8.51 both prev. National champs.
I was 7th and I am very happy.
After the prizes (a hat for me) I cycled over to Matlcok for Bank,
I knew what gear I needed, I knew how to ride it, this is my best Strava KOM.
With 5 mins to go I panicked. The crowds were huge (and spectacular). I didnt want to cock it up. I was tired. Id done 2 hard races. I decided to drop down 2 gears to start from the pre-planned.
Mistake. I then dropped my gears to early. Mistake.
I worked hard jsut to hit a sufficuent cadenc eot compensate for being in too easier a gear, but it wasnt enough. Another chance went. As it turned out, my legs would have been up to the challenge.
But as ever I learned a hell of a lot. And it was all worth it to walk away fmor Beeley happy.
Cycling 25:00 [3] 7.0 mi (16.8 mph)
ahr:130
Beeley warm up
2 PM
Cycling (Bank Road HC) 2:10 [3] 0.6 mi (16.6 mph)
ahr:170
Cycling 1:05:00 [3] 17.3 mi (16.0 mph)
All the cycling bits in-between
Saturday Oct 19, 2013 #
2 PM
Cycling race (NDXCL Round 7) 1:04:43 [5] 11.7 mi (10.8 mph)
Round 7
Bringham park. Lots of talk about the severe cambers and the course likened to a carry on film when wet.
Its been raining..I was apprehensive.
There was a very steep drop and some very tricky hairpins on a steep camber.lots of flat/muddy hairpins and a very muddy section.
I was in a "race as much as you can and save as much as you can" frame of mind with the two hill climbs tomorrow (and two niggly calves, which I'm pushing my luck with)
But I am getting much better and only the markedly technical sections are thwarting me now. Although I do need to practice the very tight corners.
Pleased with my race finishing 22nd in the senior race, albeit in a much smaller field than normal. But thats not my fault.
Hill climbs is my bag and I wish the climbs were on saturdays so I can go all in on the cross races, looking forward to November/December where I can do jsut that. Although rumour has it we may be thwarted by snow....
3 crashed to report- unfortunate really, not a reflection on my riding, but ultimately cost me about 7 places!
One I went for it in thick mud and went flying into the tennis court framework mesh and couldnt get my handlebar out! So embarrassing!
The over I got caught in the course tape again and pulled off when it tensioned.
I have to say, I love it now.
Bringham park. Lots of talk about the severe cambers and the course likened to a carry on film when wet.
Its been raining..I was apprehensive.
There was a very steep drop and some very tricky hairpins on a steep camber.lots of flat/muddy hairpins and a very muddy section.
I was in a "race as much as you can and save as much as you can" frame of mind with the two hill climbs tomorrow (and two niggly calves, which I'm pushing my luck with)
But I am getting much better and only the markedly technical sections are thwarting me now. Although I do need to practice the very tight corners.
Pleased with my race finishing 22nd in the senior race, albeit in a much smaller field than normal. But thats not my fault.
Hill climbs is my bag and I wish the climbs were on saturdays so I can go all in on the cross races, looking forward to November/December where I can do jsut that. Although rumour has it we may be thwarted by snow....
3 crashed to report- unfortunate really, not a reflection on my riding, but ultimately cost me about 7 places!
One I went for it in thick mud and went flying into the tennis court framework mesh and couldnt get my handlebar out! So embarrassing!
The over I got caught in the course tape again and pulled off when it tensioned.
I have to say, I love it now.
Cycling warm up/down 30:00 [3]
ahr:112
Easy turbo shake out.
Calves/foot hanging on for dear life, so did this to stretch them- I think tomorrows climbs may finish them off.
Calves/foot hanging on for dear life, so did this to stretch them- I think tomorrows climbs may finish them off.
Friday Oct 18, 2013 #
Fab Abs and T-shirt arms (Core 3 October week1) 20:00 [3]
7 AM
Cycling 30:00 [3] 8.0 mi (16.0 mph)
ahr:125 weight:11lbs
Turbo
Boring
Boring
7 PM
Cycling 30:00 [3] 8.5 mi (17.0 mph)
Scrambled to get home in time to clean my bike then jumped on the turbo
Everything stiff and sore, particularly considering the lack of training I've done
Everything stiff and sore, particularly considering the lack of training I've done
Thursday Oct 17, 2013 #
7 AM
Cycling 52:27 [3] 14.5 mi (16.6 mph)
ahr:133
Into work, up onto the moor and had the pleasure of watching an absolutely stunning sunrise.
Wanted to take a picture but was running late
Wanted to take a picture but was running late
12 PM
Fab Abs and T-shirt arms (Core 2 October week 1 ) 20:00 [3]
5 PM
Cycling 1:36:00 [5] 26.25 mi (16.4 mph)
ahr:128
From work out to Matlock to have a practice on the Bank Road Hill clkmb frst segment.
Opted for an ambitious approach of 2nd cog in.
The plan is to work to the first man hole cover and drop a gear, then another, then possibly one more before digging in.
Of all the hill climb races, this is the steepest, I'm nervous about the gear changes already.
Then headed to Beeley moor HC start and did a practice start and a tempo effort to the top.
The plan here is 2nd cog in (small ring) but get seated quickly, then work the gears as required, standing once or twice on the first section
Round the corner back in the saddle, before getting out of the saddle for the first part of section 2.
Back in the saddle before switching to the big gear for the false flat.
Here I'll be out of the saddle for the sharp raise then back in the saddle until the turn off.
Out of the saddle working to get the average speed above 18mph and then on the drops for the final sprint.
Its almost too easy.....
Would love to go well on Beeley, I know how to do it and I'm fit, would love to see it happen on the day
Opted for an ambitious approach of 2nd cog in.
The plan is to work to the first man hole cover and drop a gear, then another, then possibly one more before digging in.
Of all the hill climb races, this is the steepest, I'm nervous about the gear changes already.
Then headed to Beeley moor HC start and did a practice start and a tempo effort to the top.
The plan here is 2nd cog in (small ring) but get seated quickly, then work the gears as required, standing once or twice on the first section
Round the corner back in the saddle, before getting out of the saddle for the first part of section 2.
Back in the saddle before switching to the big gear for the false flat.
Here I'll be out of the saddle for the sharp raise then back in the saddle until the turn off.
Out of the saddle working to get the average speed above 18mph and then on the drops for the final sprint.
Its almost too easy.....
Would love to go well on Beeley, I know how to do it and I'm fit, would love to see it happen on the day
Wednesday Oct 16, 2013 #
Note
Got up to ride, decided I was nearly there, what would 30 mins do.
Will turbo tonight.
Feeling lazy
Will turbo tonight.
Feeling lazy
12 PM
Fab Abs and T-shirt arms (Core 1 October wk 1) 20:00 [3]
5 PM
Cycling intervals 1:00:00 [5] 19.0 mi (19.0 mph)
Turbo
15 Mins easy "dipping the tip in, to see how it feels" it felt ok so went with
6 x 5mins /60s then a cool down
Never went crazy
Could feel it a bit towards the end but tomorrow morning will be the true test.
Hope its ok, really fancy giving Beeley the beans on Sunday
15 Mins easy "dipping the tip in, to see how it feels" it felt ok so went with
6 x 5mins /60s then a cool down
Never went crazy
Could feel it a bit towards the end but tomorrow morning will be the true test.
Hope its ok, really fancy giving Beeley the beans on Sunday
Tuesday Oct 15, 2013 #
Note
Calf sore so decided not to force it this morning
Will try a turbo this evening
Will try a turbo this evening
Note
(rest day)
Hmmm..
Opted for a rest day again.
Woke up tired and later al calf and medial foot very sore. Coughing up green gunk all day.
Got home, looked at the weather, turbo was the only option cycling-wise in case I got soreness a long way from home (much better to just hop off).
Weather was great so option B was to clean my bike from the weekend. I opted for the latter and I m glad I did as it was rusting.
Then I got ready to turbo and played out what I would say to someone else with foot pain and green gunk...and got changed again.
My main concern is weight gain, which is irrelevant if you do not race.
Ooooooh the conflict of a competitively oriented mind.
Opted for a rest day again.
Woke up tired and later al calf and medial foot very sore. Coughing up green gunk all day.
Got home, looked at the weather, turbo was the only option cycling-wise in case I got soreness a long way from home (much better to just hop off).
Weather was great so option B was to clean my bike from the weekend. I opted for the latter and I m glad I did as it was rusting.
Then I got ready to turbo and played out what I would say to someone else with foot pain and green gunk...and got changed again.
My main concern is weight gain, which is irrelevant if you do not race.
Ooooooh the conflict of a competitively oriented mind.
Monday Oct 14, 2013 #
Note
(rest day)
Foot is officially very sore dam it.
Just when I though I'd sussed it with the cycling shoes
Opted for an emergency rest day. Sad times as I was hoping to practice on Beeley tomorrow- think the best option would be to turbo train and get off if it hurts.... grrr
Just when I though I'd sussed it with the cycling shoes
Opted for an emergency rest day. Sad times as I was hoping to practice on Beeley tomorrow- think the best option would be to turbo train and get off if it hurts.... grrr
Sunday Oct 13, 2013 #
Note
My foot pain is back
Grr... hopefully I can get through todays HC then I will have to re-assess
Grr... hopefully I can get through todays HC then I will have to re-assess
11 AM
Cycling 1:51 [3] 0.5 mi (16.2 mph)
Normally this road is behind a clsoed gate, and the climb is a new one. I've never done it before so had no clue how to tackle it.
On reccying it I was still none the wiser, some had said the big ring would be appropriate.
It began on a hill then levelled out before hitting the gate area and kicking considerably.
I decided on big ring 2nd easiest rear cog and to change up to 4th cog before dropping onto the small ring for the kicker.
This went perfectly and I got to the top ok.
I then warmed down watching the other riders come up and initial confidence wavered as I saw more and more people coming up on the big front ring. I thought it was a bit easy.
9th overall and yet another chance to be higher up. I either go to hard or too easy, I really hope I get it right at least once before the short season ends.
Miserable day for being on a bike!
On reccying it I was still none the wiser, some had said the big ring would be appropriate.
It began on a hill then levelled out before hitting the gate area and kicking considerably.
I decided on big ring 2nd easiest rear cog and to change up to 4th cog before dropping onto the small ring for the kicker.
This went perfectly and I got to the top ok.
I then warmed down watching the other riders come up and initial confidence wavered as I saw more and more people coming up on the big front ring. I thought it was a bit easy.
9th overall and yet another chance to be higher up. I either go to hard or too easy, I really hope I get it right at least once before the short season ends.
Miserable day for being on a bike!
Cycling 50:00 [3] 13.0 mi (15.6 mph)
Warm up and down
Saturday Oct 12, 2013 #
10 AM
Cycling 30:00 [3] 8.0 mi (16.0 mph)
My now standard wrm up of 10 easy, 10 a bit harder 30 flat out then the rest easyish.
Then 5 poos.
Then 5 poos.
Cycling hills (Mam Nick HC) 7:38 [5] 1.4 mi (11.0 mph)
Managed to get to the start fairly relaxed. It was very windy, very rainy and the start was down the road from the car park so I headed over layered up.
I de-layered and got a bit panicked. I remained optimistic from the fact that I had 2 rest days and no cross race in my legs. Liam O'Toole who came 7th behind me at Pea Royd Lane and came 11th at Monsal set off 1 minute in front of me.
5-4-3-2-1
Fuck here we go, I set off nice and aggressively up the hill. I impulsive decided to drop down one gear to a harder gear and went for it, at the brow of the first increased gradient where the gradient settles I got in the saddle ready to spin a steady cadence.
Oh hell...my legs felt weak, I suddenly felt week and was paranoid that my suspicions that I was coming down with something were correct. Dam it.
I kept plugging away and could see the next steep gradient coming, I went for it again and it felt fast.
Then, WHOOPS! i flew over the saddle and did a full wheel spin over and oily puddle, luckily i got straight back on my rhythm and it didn't affect me too much.
Up I went onto an easier section, I suddenly started to feel good and could see Liam in front, I was taking time out of him! I'm flying! I thought this was it, I stayed out of the saddle and pinned my ears back around the hairpins to the top keeping focused for the lay by where Hatts and I got engaged- thinking this was the end.
Suddenly my legs felt tired, I sat in the saddle and flew forward..damn it, sitting in the saddle is much quicker on the segment.
As I approached the supporters I began my kick and totally went for it focused on the lay by and the top of the hill.
Come back! You've finished!
Shit.
It turns out the finish was much earlier. I had conserved too much energy thinking it was longer than it was.
I still don't know how I feel..
8 people were under 8 minutes. I got 7.38. The winner 6.49. 2nd place 7.20
I came 6th.
I cant help but feel if I hadn't been a wimp at the start and knew where the finish was, i could have been higher up. But 6th aint bad- there were some guys there who certainly seemed to be experienced cyclists. So I'll take it.
I de-layered and got a bit panicked. I remained optimistic from the fact that I had 2 rest days and no cross race in my legs. Liam O'Toole who came 7th behind me at Pea Royd Lane and came 11th at Monsal set off 1 minute in front of me.
5-4-3-2-1
Fuck here we go, I set off nice and aggressively up the hill. I impulsive decided to drop down one gear to a harder gear and went for it, at the brow of the first increased gradient where the gradient settles I got in the saddle ready to spin a steady cadence.
Oh hell...my legs felt weak, I suddenly felt week and was paranoid that my suspicions that I was coming down with something were correct. Dam it.
I kept plugging away and could see the next steep gradient coming, I went for it again and it felt fast.
Then, WHOOPS! i flew over the saddle and did a full wheel spin over and oily puddle, luckily i got straight back on my rhythm and it didn't affect me too much.
Up I went onto an easier section, I suddenly started to feel good and could see Liam in front, I was taking time out of him! I'm flying! I thought this was it, I stayed out of the saddle and pinned my ears back around the hairpins to the top keeping focused for the lay by where Hatts and I got engaged- thinking this was the end.
Suddenly my legs felt tired, I sat in the saddle and flew forward..damn it, sitting in the saddle is much quicker on the segment.
As I approached the supporters I began my kick and totally went for it focused on the lay by and the top of the hill.
Come back! You've finished!
Shit.
It turns out the finish was much earlier. I had conserved too much energy thinking it was longer than it was.
I still don't know how I feel..
8 people were under 8 minutes. I got 7.38. The winner 6.49. 2nd place 7.20
I came 6th.
I cant help but feel if I hadn't been a wimp at the start and knew where the finish was, i could have been higher up. But 6th aint bad- there were some guys there who certainly seemed to be experienced cyclists. So I'll take it.
2 PM
Cycling 52:12 [3] 8.75 mi (10.1 mph)
Oooooooh.
A proper cyclocross race.
Legged it home swapped bikes and legged it over to Alfreton for round 6 of the NDCXL.
This course has some very long twisty uphills (good), 2 woodland sections with tree routes, which were downhill (very bad), a tree to jump over and some very muddy convoluted sections (surprisingly good).
I planned to get really warm on the turbo-but arrived and was missing a part of it which was annoying. So just keep warm before the reccy.
The whistle went and I set off tentatively aiming to pick off tired riders from the gloopy mud.
As usual my fitness allowed me to take significant chunks out of many on the uphillls, I was suprised how well I was doing in the mud and on the convoulted sections. In my mind on lap one I thought this si going to be a good one for me...
...and then we hit the woodland sections. I am not exaggerting, anyone around me would take 60secs at least out of me in here, i was so, so shit and timid. I jsut dont know how to ride over tree roots.
Each lap I clawed my way back in front of throse around me, then would lose them all in the woods. Repeat.
Sadly the finsih line was close to the woods so on te final lap the places I lost remained.
But it was VERY enjoyable apart from the woods. Legs felt fine throughout from the hill climb, maintaining that I still have more to give in the HCs
A proper cyclocross race.
Legged it home swapped bikes and legged it over to Alfreton for round 6 of the NDCXL.
This course has some very long twisty uphills (good), 2 woodland sections with tree routes, which were downhill (very bad), a tree to jump over and some very muddy convoluted sections (surprisingly good).
I planned to get really warm on the turbo-but arrived and was missing a part of it which was annoying. So just keep warm before the reccy.
The whistle went and I set off tentatively aiming to pick off tired riders from the gloopy mud.
As usual my fitness allowed me to take significant chunks out of many on the uphillls, I was suprised how well I was doing in the mud and on the convoulted sections. In my mind on lap one I thought this si going to be a good one for me...
...and then we hit the woodland sections. I am not exaggerting, anyone around me would take 60secs at least out of me in here, i was so, so shit and timid. I jsut dont know how to ride over tree roots.
Each lap I clawed my way back in front of throse around me, then would lose them all in the woods. Repeat.
Sadly the finsih line was close to the woods so on te final lap the places I lost remained.
But it was VERY enjoyable apart from the woods. Legs felt fine throughout from the hill climb, maintaining that I still have more to give in the HCs
Cycling 22:54 [3] 3.0 mi (7.9 mph)
Warm up
Assessment
Horrible woods
Horrible ditch
Horrible mini ditch
Dont know how to take any of the above on
Managed well on corners and cambers.
Assessment
Horrible woods
Horrible ditch
Horrible mini ditch
Dont know how to take any of the above on
Managed well on corners and cambers.
Friday Oct 11, 2013 #
Note
(rest day)
Having spent 2 hours last night in the cold and dark washing three bikes, there was no way I was ridin to work and get them dirty- instead I planned on gettin on the turbo when I got home
Sadly it took a while getting sorted for the military operation that is this weekend (3 races an a car swap) so ultimately I took another rest day. Prob a good thing as I feel tired.
Tomorrow is the only hill climb on the calendar that I will do fresh- I'm interested to see how I compare in fresh vs. post race legs. Some feel that a hard effort the day before is beneficial
Sadly it took a while getting sorted for the military operation that is this weekend (3 races an a car swap) so ultimately I took another rest day. Prob a good thing as I feel tired.
Tomorrow is the only hill climb on the calendar that I will do fresh- I'm interested to see how I compare in fresh vs. post race legs. Some feel that a hard effort the day before is beneficial
Thursday Oct 10, 2013 #
Note
(rest day)
Surprisingly tired.
Although the volume has dropped, the quality is up and my body certainly knows about it.
Decided to drop core for a week as things stiffening up. Keeping the mileage down as the next few weeks sees some intensive weekends. Have that horrible tiredness you get pre-cold...hoping it is just me being paranoid
This week is Mam Nick HC, followed by NDCXL in the afternoon, Sunday sees a local HC that I thought might be an easy filed, but it turns out the big guns have rocked up.
The following weekend sees a Cx race on the Saturday, then Beeley HC and Bank Rd ( on which I am KOM)
To be honest, although the pressure was on due to the crowd and club members bigging me up at Monsal, the two climbs I would like to succeed most in are Mam nick and Beeley, Mam Nick as it is a monster (and where we got engged) and beeley as it is my training hill..
Exciting weeks ahead
Although the volume has dropped, the quality is up and my body certainly knows about it.
Decided to drop core for a week as things stiffening up. Keeping the mileage down as the next few weeks sees some intensive weekends. Have that horrible tiredness you get pre-cold...hoping it is just me being paranoid
This week is Mam Nick HC, followed by NDCXL in the afternoon, Sunday sees a local HC that I thought might be an easy filed, but it turns out the big guns have rocked up.
The following weekend sees a Cx race on the Saturday, then Beeley HC and Bank Rd ( on which I am KOM)
To be honest, although the pressure was on due to the crowd and club members bigging me up at Monsal, the two climbs I would like to succeed most in are Mam nick and Beeley, Mam Nick as it is a monster (and where we got engged) and beeley as it is my training hill..
Exciting weeks ahead
Wednesday Oct 9, 2013 #
7 AM
Cycling 58:42 [3] 15.25 mi (15.6 mph)
ahr:121
IW
5 PM
Cycling 58:51 [3] 15.25 mi (15.5 mph)
ahr:116
HFW
into the wind
into the wind
Tuesday Oct 8, 2013 #
9 AM
Cycling hills 55:46 [5] 14.5 mi (15.6 mph)
ahr:132
Early doors Session on Mam Nick- with substantial notes on gears!
Session of 6 x 2 mins/2mins.
Short session but aiming for race pace to work gears out, stopping dead in my tracks for rec.
Legs were very tired afterwards, it was tough. My average pace was approx 20 secs per 2 mins down on the race winner last year, which doesn't bode well- however, I'm gonna stick with the gears I've chosen
I'm starting with the 4the cog n the small front ring, standing for the first kick before sitting in and pedalling hard to ensure I'm not two knackered for the next 2 kicks- plan is TO CHANGE gear where required.
Warm down to hope and back
Session of 6 x 2 mins/2mins.
Short session but aiming for race pace to work gears out, stopping dead in my tracks for rec.
Legs were very tired afterwards, it was tough. My average pace was approx 20 secs per 2 mins down on the race winner last year, which doesn't bode well- however, I'm gonna stick with the gears I've chosen
I'm starting with the 4the cog n the small front ring, standing for the first kick before sitting in and pedalling hard to ensure I'm not two knackered for the next 2 kicks- plan is TO CHANGE gear where required.
Warm down to hope and back
Cycling 30:00 [3] 8.0 mi (16.0 mph)
Turbo race day warm up
10 easy
10 bit harder
30secs flat out
10 easy
10 easy
10 bit harder
30secs flat out
10 easy
Monday Oct 7, 2013 #
10 AM
Cycling 1:57:53 [3] 21.0 mi (10.7 mph)
ahr:127
2 Laps of Sherwood pines + an add o to warm down
Really pleased with this. Although compared to others I was very slow, I was significantly better than previous efforts particularly on my second lap and was even quite confident in parts.
Well worth the trip.
Must have played Monsal Head over in my head a hundered times now..Grrrr
Really pleased with this. Although compared to others I was very slow, I was significantly better than previous efforts particularly on my second lap and was even quite confident in parts.
Well worth the trip.
Must have played Monsal Head over in my head a hundered times now..Grrrr
Sunday Oct 6, 2013 #
11 AM
Cycling 30:00 [3]
ahr:115
Warm up- rollers
10 easy
10 bit harder
30 sec flat out
Medium easy until 3000
10 easy
10 bit harder
30 sec flat out
Medium easy until 3000
12 PM
Cycling hills 1:46 [5] 0.5 mi (17.0 mph)
Crash, Bang Wallop!
Back to earth with a thud.
On the outside I am being positive, but I need to get it off my chest and attack point is my vehicle.
I started a training plan in june specifically for this race- it has gone without a hitch, I have got in brilliant hill climbing shape (although could be lighter- but I cant be arsed trying after getting it so wrong in the past)
I got the amount of beer right last night and felt fine this morning. Legs a bit tired from yesterday, but that was worth it.
Did the perfect warm up and felt absolutely ready to go. But was absolutely terrified of what might go wrong- but to be honest quietly I thought it was all going to go right, I though it was going to be my day and I might even get top ten and make my club mates really proud (its that sort of club).
Whilst everyone else rode the hill to recce- I was confident that all my work in the summer to find the best gear was right, i had written in attack point Small front ring, hardest rear gear. Thats what I settled for.
5..4..3..2..1 Shit- set off with my front wheel at an angle which totally slowed me down. No bother, crack on- I pedalled hard out of the saddle ten sat in until the gradient climbed, I stood up "cadence, cadence, cadence" but i couldbnt get it, whats wrong?!
As I ground my way up through the crowd at an embarrassingly slow cadence, I remembered.. I was supposed to drop down 3 gears whilst still sat in the saddle, giving me more saddle time and then a really opportunity t hit it hard.
As I saw the results come in I felt like crying, I would have been to 10 and I know I could have taken about 10 seconds+ off my time- it was a genuine struggle to get to the top and I never struggle on hills
Public humiliation and a really disappointing opportunity to feel very proud of myself.
Yes today was positive, but this was my world cup. I'll get over it- I just needed a moan.
I think the Monsal HC could be the new Yorkshire XC lol
Back to earth with a thud.
On the outside I am being positive, but I need to get it off my chest and attack point is my vehicle.
I started a training plan in june specifically for this race- it has gone without a hitch, I have got in brilliant hill climbing shape (although could be lighter- but I cant be arsed trying after getting it so wrong in the past)
I got the amount of beer right last night and felt fine this morning. Legs a bit tired from yesterday, but that was worth it.
Did the perfect warm up and felt absolutely ready to go. But was absolutely terrified of what might go wrong- but to be honest quietly I thought it was all going to go right, I though it was going to be my day and I might even get top ten and make my club mates really proud (its that sort of club).
Whilst everyone else rode the hill to recce- I was confident that all my work in the summer to find the best gear was right, i had written in attack point Small front ring, hardest rear gear. Thats what I settled for.
5..4..3..2..1 Shit- set off with my front wheel at an angle which totally slowed me down. No bother, crack on- I pedalled hard out of the saddle ten sat in until the gradient climbed, I stood up "cadence, cadence, cadence" but i couldbnt get it, whats wrong?!
As I ground my way up through the crowd at an embarrassingly slow cadence, I remembered.. I was supposed to drop down 3 gears whilst still sat in the saddle, giving me more saddle time and then a really opportunity t hit it hard.
As I saw the results come in I felt like crying, I would have been to 10 and I know I could have taken about 10 seconds+ off my time- it was a genuine struggle to get to the top and I never struggle on hills
Public humiliation and a really disappointing opportunity to feel very proud of myself.
Yes today was positive, but this was my world cup. I'll get over it- I just needed a moan.
I think the Monsal HC could be the new Yorkshire XC lol
1 PM
Cycling 1:34:50 [3] 27.75 mi (17.6 mph)
ahr:117
Ride home
Saturday Oct 5, 2013 #
2 PM
Cycling race 56:44 [5] 12.75 mi (13.5 mph)
ahr:169
Ah...to put this feeling in a box for keeps. This is why I ran, nice to finally find it again on a bike.
NDXCL Rnd 5- Allestree.
On my practice laps I was very nervous about the entry section into the trees, it was brutal with sticking out routes and numerous nasty accidents occurred in the vets race, it was unnerving.
Yet again the course contained lots of cambered, convoluted sections nd was becoming progressively muddy.
I planned to stay with quite firm tyre pressure to avoid pinch punctures in the woods, but then saw how the course was churning up an decided lower pressure would be better for the tricky corners.
However, I felt flat as a pancake warming up and my HR was 150...very alarming with monsal tomorrow- I've been stressed all week thinking about races and with work and figured it was all because of this that I found myself burnt out.
I nipped for a pee then on the way back found that I couldn't shift from the big ring to the little. Bollcoks. I made a snap decision to stay in the small ring throughout.
My philosophy for the race was, derailleur knackered, I'm knackered and I'll prob get a puncture in the woods- so got flat out till the DNF!
The whistle went (after a minutes silence for a Cx rider from america who was killed by a truck out training)
Immediately I was at the back, very last. Shit. then suddenly we hit the tricky corners and I gained 15 places!
Game on! By the end of the first lap I had overtaken most of my team, barring 1 guy who is always at the very front. I continued to gap them and found myself in a pack with proper riders,not the unfit boys with technique.
I was loving it and pulled away until I got caught in the tape and when it became mentioned it yanked me off the bike. Damn, they got away. It was now time to maintain the scalps of my club mates who I normally don't see for dust.
It was mission achieved until lap 6 where a very muddy tricky corner got the better of me (just as I was catching the group) and I was off again.
Chris Heyes who is a great racer and a lovely guy, came past and i spent the reminder of the race trying to get to him but couldn't, the gasket was blown.
However I was 3rd counter for the team as opposed 7th or 8th, beating some decent guys. More importantly I was 23rd. If I'd stayed with the group I would have been top 20.
I'm so pleased that it clicked a bit today, it was really enjoyable. The back is showing no signs of getting better, maybe this will turn into my sport after all..
I think it was a combination of the sod it ride hard until a mechanical attitude, staying on the small ring and spinning, but also my cornering was very aggressive today- I don't really know why it clicked, but it did.
I would do anything for a similar day at Monsal tomorrow to cap a great birthday!
NDXCL Rnd 5- Allestree.
On my practice laps I was very nervous about the entry section into the trees, it was brutal with sticking out routes and numerous nasty accidents occurred in the vets race, it was unnerving.
Yet again the course contained lots of cambered, convoluted sections nd was becoming progressively muddy.
I planned to stay with quite firm tyre pressure to avoid pinch punctures in the woods, but then saw how the course was churning up an decided lower pressure would be better for the tricky corners.
However, I felt flat as a pancake warming up and my HR was 150...very alarming with monsal tomorrow- I've been stressed all week thinking about races and with work and figured it was all because of this that I found myself burnt out.
I nipped for a pee then on the way back found that I couldn't shift from the big ring to the little. Bollcoks. I made a snap decision to stay in the small ring throughout.
My philosophy for the race was, derailleur knackered, I'm knackered and I'll prob get a puncture in the woods- so got flat out till the DNF!
The whistle went (after a minutes silence for a Cx rider from america who was killed by a truck out training)
Immediately I was at the back, very last. Shit. then suddenly we hit the tricky corners and I gained 15 places!
Game on! By the end of the first lap I had overtaken most of my team, barring 1 guy who is always at the very front. I continued to gap them and found myself in a pack with proper riders,not the unfit boys with technique.
I was loving it and pulled away until I got caught in the tape and when it became mentioned it yanked me off the bike. Damn, they got away. It was now time to maintain the scalps of my club mates who I normally don't see for dust.
It was mission achieved until lap 6 where a very muddy tricky corner got the better of me (just as I was catching the group) and I was off again.
Chris Heyes who is a great racer and a lovely guy, came past and i spent the reminder of the race trying to get to him but couldn't, the gasket was blown.
However I was 3rd counter for the team as opposed 7th or 8th, beating some decent guys. More importantly I was 23rd. If I'd stayed with the group I would have been top 20.
I'm so pleased that it clicked a bit today, it was really enjoyable. The back is showing no signs of getting better, maybe this will turn into my sport after all..
I think it was a combination of the sod it ride hard until a mechanical attitude, staying on the small ring and spinning, but also my cornering was very aggressive today- I don't really know why it clicked, but it did.
I would do anything for a similar day at Monsal tomorrow to cap a great birthday!
Cycling 22 [3] 4.0 mi (654.5 mph)
ahr:139
Warm up
C • Nice 1
Friday Oct 4, 2013 #
7 AM
Cycling 32:00 [3] 9.0 mi (16.9 mph)
ahr:123
IW
Knackered
Knackered
5 PM
Cycling 26:46 [3] 7.0 mi (15.7 mph)
ahr:117
HFW
Tired still.
Musing about whether to ditch the cross race and how to get out of drinking more than 3-4 pints tomorrow night... Uni mates are gonna hate me
Tired still.
Musing about whether to ditch the cross race and how to get out of drinking more than 3-4 pints tomorrow night... Uni mates are gonna hate me
Thursday Oct 3, 2013 #
7 AM
Cycling intervals 57:13 [4] 15.25 mi (16.0 mph)
IW
Canal
with 12 x 40s efforts/90s
Gorgeous exercise morning, I love misty mornings
Canal
with 12 x 40s efforts/90s
Gorgeous exercise morning, I love misty mornings
12 PM
Fab Abs and T-shirt arms (Core 3 September week 4) 20:00 [3]
5 PM
Cycling 27:14 [3] 7.0 mi (15.4 mph)
Peeing it down
Would have done 40- but didn't see the point.
First day using overshoes, they are amazing
Would have done 40- but didn't see the point.
First day using overshoes, they are amazing
Wednesday Oct 2, 2013 #
Note
(rest day)
Feeling tired and a bit stressed out atm- partly work, partly through thinking far to much about Monsal.
Been a while since I experienced this and I bet a thousand quid it was detrimental to my running, haven't had this feeling since the last big running race- probably why I was always tired
The goal is to try to forget about it
Been a while since I experienced this and I bet a thousand quid it was detrimental to my running, haven't had this feeling since the last big running race- probably why I was always tired
The goal is to try to forget about it
12 PM
Fab Abs and T-shirt arms (core 4 week 4 September) 20:00 [3]
Tuesday Oct 1, 2013 #
7 AM
Cycling 56:38 [3] 15.25 mi (16.2 mph)
IW
12 PM
Fab Abs and T-shirt arms (September wk4 core 2) 20:00 [3]
5 PM
Cycling 1:05:46 [3] 17.25 mi (15.7 mph)
ahr:114
As part of my "community service" for recklessly time trialling (riding to work) along the canal, I was tasked with riding all the segments created (in both directions) so that the canal can be fully de segmented by Strava and appeasing the canal community
TWATS
This was that ride.
I really support the canal trust, they're doing amazing thing, the development of the canal is beautiful, forward thinking and community based.
But this morning I only saw 3 fishermen and 3 herons... I don't think I ruined their day.
This evening I passed 3 walkers and (as usual), smiled, said excuse me, hello and thank you to all. I also passed about 12 people commuting from work in all manner of uniforms including suits, roadworkers, sparkies and such like.
Why spoil their fun?
TWATS
This was that ride.
I really support the canal trust, they're doing amazing thing, the development of the canal is beautiful, forward thinking and community based.
But this morning I only saw 3 fishermen and 3 herons... I don't think I ruined their day.
This evening I passed 3 walkers and (as usual), smiled, said excuse me, hello and thank you to all. I also passed about 12 people commuting from work in all manner of uniforms including suits, roadworkers, sparkies and such like.
Why spoil their fun?