...DAVIS MASTERS RACE TEAM 2012...

Just a Really Nice Day!

2011-12-10T17:57:00.000-08:00

Well as most days go... Today was a great time with the 45+ guys, as we tackled just under 5000ft of climbing in and around the Auburn area. Picked up, and added to the mix was Bruce Hendler (http://www.athleticamps.com/), and Torre Phillips (ex DBC Jr.). Now the nice thing about having Torre there was the fact that I knew he would be able to keep Wink and Coach honest. The riding was "Brisk" but manageable... We made sure that we rode together, but when we hit the climbs... the Gloves came off!

One comment heard was Big asking Steggall where his climbing legs all of a suddenly came from? Steggall's reply was that he had been hitting the overpasses in Davis extra hard on his commute to and from Sac! Big mumbled something and walked away. : )

By the time we finally rolled onto the last climb, Ridge Road . We were all pretty much ready to call it a day... But even on our last stretch of road, and as we entered into the final miles, it did not bring any peace to the group. We were still launching attack after attack up and until the final Stop light!

Good stuff... Lots of Fun... Sore legs... Ready, and looking forward to doing more!

Now come's the best part of the day... A nice stop at the Islands Restaurant!

Thank you to Roddy for the hospitality, and the treat! It is always fun to end a great ride and day on such a positive note!

Ok... Enough for now, and the fast up-date

PS... In the picture you can see the "Love" that Steggall and Big are always trying to show each other!

Ciao and Out... FF

Let the 2012 Season begin!

2011-11-04T20:27:00.000-07:00

So as a lot of Blogs go... This one has sat dormant for a few months. Well the Road Race season is over, and that most certainly has finally allowed me some time to sit at the keyboards, and bring things up to speed. One thing as a "Blog" reader that I like, are things that get to the point, and hit all the highlights. With that being said... In the next few days I'll, and others try to toss all of you some tasty goodies as to how we did in 2011, and were we are going in 2012. Ok already enough blab'n for now!

Ciao and Out... FF

My BIG Idea

2011-02-21T21:39:00.000-08:00

It was nothing new. Just the same sinking feeling on last weekend's rides up King Ridge and Sweetwater with Wink spinning right by me. I've had the same feeling when all the other ABS (Avian Bone Syndrome)-types spryly dancing on their pedals when we hit the steep pitches on Cantelow. What makes it even worse is when those ABS check out their fancy Powertap-thingymajigs and brag about averaging this much or that much power. Like on the Jesse Moore ride - "better be ready to ride > 215W for 3 hours." Really? Put me on the flats and I could do that all day. In the hills? I'd probably have to be above threshold while the ABS are still pulling 220W. So with a long weekend, I began to think, "Why are we FABs (Fat-Ass Boys) always doomed in the race to the summit?"

I'm sure all the ABS are saying, "Yeah, you have more mass, so you should be able to produce proportionally more power." And looking at their skinny, knobbly legs you would think this would be true.

Looking at the graph above, the ABS would seem to be right. Say we are going out on one of JM's ride and the ABS (75 kg) pulls a constant 220W. On the flats this will get him going 32.8 km/h. To keep up with him, a FAB (95 kg) has to generate 229W. However, relative to mass this is only 2.41 W/kg for the FAB compared to the 2.93 W/kg the ABS is doing. If the ABS keeps his power constant as the grade increases, the FAB has to increase his power to equal the ABS' speed but relative to his weight, the FAB never reaches the ABS relative power even on a 9% grade!

So us FABs must be really weak, eh? Not quite. It's nice to think that power increases linearly with mass but it doesn't. Assuming that increases in mass are proportional in terms of muscle, bone, lungs, fat, etc., the increase in mass is a function of the 3rd power (i.e. cubed, not Watts), but unfortunately power (i.e. Watts) only increases as a function of the 2nd power (i.e. squared). This is because power is dependent mainly upon the surface area of vessels, capillaries, aveoli, etc. So rather than being linear, the relationship looks more like this....

Using a 50 kg "Uber-ABS" rider as the baseline, a 75 kg rider would have 50% greater power if there was a linear relationship between power and mass (red line). However, the increase in power should only be expected to increase by 31% (blue line). For the 100 kg "Uber-FAB" rider, the increase in power is only 59%, rather than the 100% expected.

Back on JM's ride with the ABS holding the 220W, this is what the true power/"relative" mass relationship is as the grade increases.

On the flats, the FAB only has to use a power/relative mass that is 89% of the ABS - big advantage. But this advantage is quickly evened out on a 2% grade and on a 6% grade, the ABS has a 5% advantage on the FAB.

Does all this rationalization make us FABs feel any better? I'll let you know the next time I get dropped on the WW ride.

A Weekend to Remember!

2011-02-18T00:12:00.000-08:00

Well here it is... One week later coming into the weekend, and all I can think about is the great time I had at our Bodega Bay Team Camp. You can see from the pictures that the weather was absolutely incredible! For some their fun started on Friday, and for the others we rolled in on Saturday morning. Our first day started with the Kings Ridge, 82 miles of all the great things that can come along with such a great ride. Ups...Downs...Ups, and more Ups!

(That Kings Ridge ain't no thang!)

A real big Thank You to Val for a long day behind the wheel.

Yeah... We can't believe that Steggall didn't get us lost either!

Wink thinking to himself... I hate that Keith... I hate that Keith : (

Wink still thinking... I hate that Keith... I hate that Keith

Hey Darin... You done cleaning my Bike yet?

After the end of a great day of riding we all gathered for...The ever fun cycling talk...The how much I'm hurting... The "Man" I sucked today!... Oh Yeah, and the Recovery Drinks! Regardless of what is was that we talked about, we can guarantee you that it was a good time by all. You can see the line was forming for some great dinner grub, and more great conversation.

(Most of us even stayed up till 10:00!)

After a great nights sleep (Hmmmm). We all met for breakfast... Fueling ourselves up for the Ride of the Day! We had a different groups going out in different directions... One group doing what we call "The Bakery" ride, and the other doing a mix of "This Ride/That Ride", and the rest of us doing Sweetwater.

Top O Sweet Water, and our lunch break.
(Thank you so much for the SAG support)

Oh Gawd! Why Me? Why Me?...
Steggall please just go away!

The 45+ plus guys showing how to look good!

Anyway it is a quick recap to what was a great Weekend... Both in those of us that came to Bodega, and as we would also find out... A great weekend at the Races! With the DBCRT getting Podiums, and top 5's in a lot of the categories at the Folsom Crit on Saturday.

(I can't believe we are back to this!)

Ciao and Out... FF

Racing for a Piece of the Pie!

2011-02-07T20:40:00.001-08:00

Cherry Pie 2011
Racing for a piece of the Pie!

I did not want to do this race, there is a huge, monster, cardiac hill like

hill in this race...in my mind and listening to others, it seemed this way.

Hills and me do not mix. Ken told me it was a power hill and it is perfect

for me. Michele and Leslie signed up...pre registration only! I was stuck,

once Michele does something I have no excuse! :) My last hope was my Coach

would say "NO do not do this are you nuts" so when I asked him I was

thinking about it...he said "yes, do it, it is a power hill and it is your

hill". CRAP! So I bit the bullet and signed up. I was stressed all week and

had visions of getting dropped first lap, there was no way I could climb

this mountain or any mountain fast. The night before Ken was showing me

video of the hill and racing, it looked like a mountain on the computer

screen. I asked Ken if I had a fever!

So we arrived and I went first to look at this hill. It was a hill but yes

in fact it is a power hill! I was still in fear of being dropped and I was

starting to think I was ill! I pre-rode the course and my legs were burning

just slowly coming up that darn hill. Michele told me it did not look as

large to her this year as it had before! I went to warm up on my trainer on

a hill where we parked. I was hoping to have fallen over off of it but then

Ken came and fixed it...darn him. Leslie showed and we talked, she is a good

climber so I knew she would be OK. Amber a new recruit whom we met at the

women's holiday party signed up too, it was her first race! So there were 4

DBCRT ladies ready to rock.

At the start, girls were asking stuff that made me fearful of them and they

separated out the female juniors out of our group, whew! There were 31 of us

on the start grid. They started us at the top of the descend hill, I had

never started a race down a hill but OK, I knew I could stay with them at

least for the downhill and through the first turn! Leslie and I had a goal

of not working on this race, the headwind was brutal and it was not worth

it, we had to save ourselves for the finish. Michele was not feeling well

and I am so proud of her to even suit up to race with us as ill as she was

feeling! Whistle blew and we were off. At the bottom of the hill, I

remembered I did not take my ritual GU before the start of this race....crap

I was really gonna suck!

Up the first hill, no problem. Many more laps, no problem...I was then

thinking WOW I am still in this race near the front....miracle! I was not

even taxed out which was surprising me! Once I figured out the laps and the

turns and who was scarier than the others I was sitting waiting. Leslie was

always next to me or in front of me so I could see her the whole time. I was

ready to cover had she needed to go in a break. Thank goodness she did not!

I was starting to think to myself, is this over yet cause I am getting

tired, no GU and this hill. Then I saw the lap counter 2 laps to go, oh I

could do 2 more laps! The pace picked up. I knew I had to get to the front

and be at the first one up the hill at the finish, it was my only hope to a

top finish...power up it. Last lap, Leslie was on the outside right, I was

on the inside left, going into the last chicane at the bottom of the hill, I

moved up the outside left, it was clear, I powered around the left to take

the inside last left turn, it was clear, my path was there....my speed was

27.8mph into that turn...I looked at Leslie, she looked at me...she started

to move, I kept straight and all of the sudden....the girl on my right came

into my front wheel and her bars came into me...MID TURN...I pushed on her

and then pushed her off me, yelled something at her and somehow by a miracle

kept it upright. I went from 27.8mph to 20mph according to my SRM. I lost my

drive, I dug deep and pulled out a 12th place. I was a little angry.

I am becoming an angry crit rider...Brooke Miller is my hero (well, her and

Jane Robertson)! I did have fun after all and have the best teammates ever!

Afterwards my Coach, texts me...."I told you, you could do it", he rocks!

Michele was great for coming out sick, she rocks, I love her! Leslie is a

great workhorse and always there if you need her! Amber, for her first race,

picked a brutal one and hung in there to finish, good job Amber, I look

forward to many more races with you!

Next race is BP Crit Sat....it is a 1/2/3/4 race...I called in the big guns

to help us 4's...my GF Trudy!

Again poached from Kristen... She Screams Team! You can't help but love that!
Enjoy her Report as much as I did. : )

Freedom in Flight

2011-02-03T00:10:00.000-08:00

Freedom in Flight by Michele F.

The love of bikes and a passion for racing exhilarates my life 365 days a year. I’m either riding my bike, racing my bike, cleaning my bike, staring at my bike, or just thinking about my bike. Am I crazy? No, I don’t think so. I have 10+ female and 50+ male teammates that can agree with that statement. Why are our lives so engulfed with cycling? To each to their own, we all have different reasons. I do it for the freedom in flight I experience while riding and the camaraderie and fun I have while racing.

Racing is exhilarating. It gets your heart rate pumping and the sweat glands flowing. All senses are engaged while you exert and push your body to its physical limits . . . the sound of the air whipping over your body . . the scenery flying by all around you . . . the smell of spring as you race through budding orchards . . . the salty taste of sweat as beads drip down your face. It is also about the love of my bike. There is a connection between cyclist and bike that only other cyclists can understand.

My 2010 Topsport Stage Race experience exemplifies the thrill and love I have for cycling and racing. The third stage was a 69 mile road race through the rolling hills of Copperopolis and surrounding areas. All was good until we came across some bad pavement. I started to hear rattling, LOTS of rattling. I looked down and my front water bottle was doing the happy dance in its cage. There was so much vibration that the screws were coming out and I was about to lose the cage! I notified my teammates about the situation. Just before a hill, the top screw popped out and the cage flopped over. Clunk, clunk, clunk with every pedal stroke I kicked the cage and water bottle. I grabbed the bottle before it fell out and had to stick it in my mouth because the road started going up. There I was, bottle in teeth bobbing in front of my face, out of the saddle, climbing trying to stay with the pack, kicking the cage… clunk, clunk, clunk. To make matters worse, I looked down and saw that the bolt scratched my new bike before jumping ship. I drank what was left in the bottle and chucked it to the side. I was cursing while the other ladies tried to comfort me, saying nail polish would fix it. I managed to bend the water cage enough to jam it into place. I was panicky because I realized that I was staying with the pack on this hilly course, but I was down to only being able to carry one bottle and my bike was scratched. I stayed on a teammate’s wheel, but I started to drift off every once in a while because I got distracted wondering if I needed shinny, gloss, or matte black nail polish. But then someone would come up and try to take the wheel which jolted me back to the race at hand.

Riding my bike is Freedom in Flight. Racing my bike is an adrenaline rush that keeps me coming back for more. Work schedules get shifted to fit riding plans, vacations are planed around training schedules, weekends are booked months in advance for races. My teammates are my friends and become part of my family. Cycling and racing isn’t just something that I do in my life… it is my life and everything else revolves around it.

MF

Posted by FWS... Without MF's approval... Just thought it was a
great article, and she has access to this Blog, so she can delete it
if she see's necessary. : )

Let the New Season Begin...

2011-01-15T22:49:00.000-08:00

Here we are and it's January 2011... Blogs are kinda a funny thing now-a-days. Seems as if they have become to much work for some (included). FaceBook and Twitter have stepped in as the new means of... Well, saying your couple of sentences... Hey! I think I forgot to rinse the shampoo out of my hair? Or, at the coffee shop, and really liking the looks of that maple scone! Things like that. Always simple and to the point. Sometimes funny, sometimes sad, sometimes stupid. None the less... It's the future (for now) of how we stay in touch with friends we know, and friends we don't... But hey! There our FB/Twitter friends.

Blogging for some reason seems to be more involved? Maybe it's just me. But I can't see posting on your Blog that your at the produce isle, and can't decide between organic or non-organic blueberries?

While your Blogging, you are always spending time wondering what it is that you would like to say that might be of importance, and something that someone might be interested in.

On Team Bike Racing Blogs... The one sure thing is... You want to talk about Bike Racing or Bike
something. You'll find that you are either telling everyone what a great Race/Ride that you, and or you and the Team had. Or you spend time telling everyone why you rode and felt like Crap!

Maybe your the "Bolder Blogger" type, and you like to slam the others that you Ride and Race with. Those for some reason are always fun to read. They always seem to get the most comments... Like...Well you suck too! I can't say that you'll get to much of that here, but we on the DBC Masters do have our occasional disagreements. We just had a good one the other day. As you can see all things are fine now, but trust me these two will be at it again sometime soon.

So while I'll be the first to admit that I'm not sure how often I'll get back here. I just had to put this out to those that visit this page, that we will try to add something as to how things are going with the Davis Bike Club Masters RaceTeam in 2011.

If your new to the site... Use the links to find out what else might be going on in Nor-Cal, or
simply to send us an email to let us know that you might be interested in joining the DBCRT.

Ciao and Out!

Norwegian Bike Adventure

2010-09-19T10:52:00.000-07:00

During my first trip to Norway in the summer of 2005 for a 2-month sabbatical, I had brought my bike along and enjoyed cycling around Oslo. Getting out of Oslo by bike, however, is very difficult if not impossible so my only ride outside the city was with Stig Tollefsen, a local Norwegian I met at work. I had returned to Oslo last year for a 2-day meeting and immediately set back on the 18-hour journey home. Making my third trip to Norway this summer for a 2-day meeting of the International Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis Study Group, I was determined to make the trip worth my while before heading back.

I contacted Stig for recommendations for a 2-day bike tour and help with locating bike rentals. Stig is a hardy Norwegian type, about my height who in ubber-John Steggall fashion bikes to work year-round even in the cold, dark Oslo winters. He kindly offered me to stay at his home, leave my luggage there and use his 63 cm steel frame Tommasini and suggested that I consider starting my trip in Fagernes. He also offered me a ticket to ride in the Vatternrundan the day after my planned trip. The Vatternrundan is a 300-km ride in Sweden with over 20,000 participants – something for the Davis Double Century to aim for - but I would have to catch a plane home that day.

I arrived at Stig’s home for dinner and enjoyed a traditional salmon and potato meal with his wife Mona, children Johannes, Marie and Peter, and another friend Benedicte and her son Axel. Johannes is 11 and speaks perfect English. We talked about the World Cup and bike racing. Surprisingly, rather than being a big Thor Hushvold supporter, he was a big fan of Cadel Evans, at least until he found a YouTube video of him slapping the hand of someone trying to pet his dog. After dinner, Stig and I sat down to map out my route and make some adjustments to the Tommasini. At 11:00 pm I was off to bed with the sun still high in the sky.

Day 1 Fagarnes to Gjendesheim (72 km, 560 meters elevation gain)

At 5:00 AM the sun was up and so was I. After stirring around in my room a bit, I joined the family for breakfast. Stig dropped me off at the Sandvika train station where I hopped on a bus for the 3 hour ride to Fagernes. After a quick stop at the Tourist Information Center to get my bearings and a kebab pita for lunch, I changed into my cycling gear, cinched up my backpack and headed north on Route 51.

The climbing started right away but was gradual. The bike fit perfectly and my legs felt great. I was starting to enjoy the scenery when 30 minutes in I had my first flat tire after hitting a hard crevice in the road. I quickly changed the tire using a CO2 cartridge I picked up in Oslo to replace the ones that had been confiscated from my checked bag in Frankfurt. I was hoping this was not an omen of things to come.

Up the road, I passed the beautiful green scenery awash with abundant purple and yellow flowers and spotted with red barns. I had to stop when I passed the Guinness Book of World Record’s Largest Witch’s Broom.

At Beitostolen, the surroundings quickly changed. The luscious fields were replaced by rocky mountains. I took a quick break to eat a Clif bar and was back on my way. The skies became grey and the wind grew colder and stronger in my face. The further I went the bleaker the area became. With only my racing jersey and a lightweight long-sleeve jersey Stig had given me, along with my bare legs, I was getting quite cold and my legs were starting to tire.

I was also starting to feel the altitude as my breathing began to labor and my head throbbed. I had finished my 2 bottles and filled them with water flowing down from the melting tundra without hesitation remembering that Stig had told me that there were no parasites in these waters.

There was a brief downhill stretch going to Bygdin but I had still had to work because of the strong headwind. I thought of stopping at Bygdin to warm up and put on the long sleeve thermal I had in my pack but decided to press on. Continuing to climb, I became colder and colder and my legs began to feel weak. I thought of the green lusciousness of the valley below and turning back to Fagernes. I wondered why Stig would ever send me this way. Did I mention that in addition to cycling and his work at the university, Stig is a part-time lumberjack? Thanks to him, I was suffering Norwegian style.

I felt some relief when I came across a line on the road with “KOM” painted under it. Just ahead was the Valdresfliya Hostel (elevation 1384 meters) where I warmed up with a hot tea and waffle with jam. I put on my thermal and asked the owner how much farther to Gjendesheim.

“13 kilometers. All downhill,” she said with a smile.

“Excellent!” I replied.

At Gjendesheim, it was much warmer. I checked into a nice hostel run by DNT (the Norwegian Trekking Association), had a shower and a nice dinner of tomato soup and cod with bacon. I laid in bed reading The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo and fell asleep.

Day 2 Gjendesheim to Ringebu (110 km)

I awoke at 4:30 AM with the full morning sun beaming through the window. I finished The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo and then went down for breakfast where I met a Swedish family, a Brit, an Aussie and a German couple. One of the Swedes was trying to sell a Specialize Roubaix which new cost him over 8,000 euros.

After breakfast I took a quick hike to get a better view of Gjendes which is supposed to have a peculiar green color, but not today. It was a beautiful lake nonetheless.

I changed back into my cycling gear and was back on the road by 10:30 AM hoping to catch the 15:24 train to Oslo from Ringebu. There was a nice steady descent and it was clear the worst climbing was behind me. Unfortunately, 45 minutes onto the ride I had my second flat. I found the whole in the tube and was set to patch it when I realized that I must have left my patch kit in my luggage at Stig’s. I carefully checked my tire for rocks, glass and thorns and put on my last spare tube.

I continued down route 51 through wooded forests following the Sjoa River until I came to road 257, a 32 km stretch once named the most beautiful road in Norway. After a nice long descent I stopped in Heidal to eat the sandwiches I had made at Gjendesheim.

Back on the road, I followed route 257 along the Sjoa River as it ran through a deep canyon. At the end of 257, my plan was to go south on an old road on the west side of the river that paralleled the busy E6 highway which ran on the east side. After an unsuccessful attempt at finding the old road, I stopped in a Shell station, bought some water and asked the clerk if there was another road besides E6 to Ringebu. She looked at me oddly, clearly not understanding my English. After checking my map for a third time, I decided to take E6 about 8 km south to Kvam where there should be a bridge where I could cross the river and get on the old road. During the entire trip I felt totally safe on the Norwegian roads. The speed limits are pretty restrictive in Norway and the drivers were always courteous when passing. E6 was another story and I was glad when I was able to finally get off it.

The remainder of the ride to Ringebu was relatively uneventful although the backpack began to feel like lead and every minor hill took a major effort. With 10 km to Ringebu the road turned to dirt and I prayed that I’d make it to the train without a flat. I guess it worked.

At 16:30, I arrived at Ringebu too late to catch the 15:24. After a sponge bath and some refueling, I took the 17:54 back to Oslo, exhausted but satisfied.

2010-06-10T08:15:00.000-07:00

The Chico Stage Race

I now remember looking at the specs for the Chico Stage Race several months ago (before it was moved to June) and was not enthused about doing an 86 mile road race, especially since it can be hot in April. I hadn't thought about Chico again until Darin wrote the group last week looking for some teammates since he'd signed up. After the notorious Big followed suit, foolish me, I register for Chico and then look at the race flyer. Holy crap, I had forgotten about the road race -- this is going to be insane! I've had some major problems with hydration and cramping in long, hot races. Big 'n' Darin will happily tell you about my pre-race fretting.

Saturday, Road Race, 9:30 AM. Started off ~80 F and ended up 103 F. Two (supposedly) 43 mile laps with 4 miles of gravel. 20 guys started. We had about 2 miles of easy warmup and then the attacks start. We're talking full-gas attacks, ramping up to 28 mph for long stretches into the wind. These guys are seriously twisted.

The attacks continued until about halfway through the first lap when perhaps everyone started realizing that we still had a ridiculously long way to go and it was already really hot. Darin sensed a moment of weakness in the group and slowly rolled away, eventually building a sizeable lead. We could barely see him up the road at times.

The group was not interested in letting Darin get out of sight and after about 10 miles and a number of surges we reeled him in. Not long after, two guys got away and were holding a decent gap going into the gravel
section, where Darin punctured. Luckily, we had a follow vehicle and Darin got a wheel change but was off the back.

The break built a bigger lead in the gravel & the section leading back to the start/finish area. Big 'n' I picked up musette bags of water bottles from the Truebloods after the finish line. We surely would have died out there without Johanna & Nathan!. While we were fussing with the bottles, our group took off and we had to do a long 2-man TT to catch back on.

Jan E. was with our chase group (now down to ~8 guys) and tried to keep us organized. This worked well except some would sit out their turn and then pull through too hard, forcing energy-sapping reorganizations. Given our groups hard effort, it's amazing that we couldn't catch the 2 man break. Then, before we hit halfway on the 2nd lap, our group was shattered. Big and I soldiered on at a much-reduced pace. We still had ~25 miles to go and survival was the operative word. We passed by the carnage of several riders on our way including some in our group. Big and I ended up 6th & 5th, with Darin sticking it out for 13th.

I only had one calf cramp near the end, which I was able to fight off. Here's what I consumed during the race: one 40 ounce camelback (frozen when we started, ala Frederick's suggestion) 6 x 24 ounce Cytomax bottles, 5 x 24 ounce water bottles, 8 various salt tablets (another Freddy trick), half a Clif bar, 7 ounces of gel, and a bag of Clif blocks. Though I was still pretty dehydrated, after drinking down another 5 bottles of water and about 5 glasses of water at dinner, I was able to pee again. Not bad...

Sunday, Time Trial, ~9:00 AM, ~85 F. We were feeling pretty beat but so was everyone else. We ended up about mid-pack, Big leading the way. We went out and had our second breakfast for the day and then back to our chill in the pool for a bit before heading to the criterium. A quick word on our accommodations -- we were hosted by Matt Kowta's folks, Mark & Mary, who treated us like royalty. We took full advantage of their pool to get our core body temps back down below about 110 F.

Sunday, downtown Chico Criterium, 12:45 PM, ~103 F. In a charitable move to make sure we got our money's worth, the promoters bumped our crit time up to an hour (from a mere 45 minutes). We were stoked! Darin, who had apparently been saving energy in the morning's TT, launched attack after attack during the 1st half while Big & I sat in the back. It was exhausting just watching Darin and trying to hang on as a tailgunner. We started with only 15 guys but they all seemed surprisingly spritely considering what we had been through in the previous 24 hours. Big & I moved up in the second half while Darin recovered. We made many attempts to get away with no luck. With about 20 minutes left, Brian M. (Armstrong Smurf Team) slowly rolled off the front just after Big had put in a massive effort. The timing was excellent as the group seemed cooked at the moment. Soon, Brian had built up a 30 second lead and was going full gas. Despite many on-off hard efforts to catch him, he stayed away until the end. Darin come up to the front at the end and got 5th, with Big and me right behind him. Though it had been fun and challenging weekend of racing, we were glad that it was over...

Doing the DBC Ladies Race Team Proud!

2010-01-19T09:15:00.000-08:00

News up-date from the Davis Bike Club Masters Race Team...
.
Trudy Wins... Big congrats goes out to Trudy B. for her awesome performance in the Sacramento Cylcocross Racing Series.
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Trudy showing an awesome display of bike handling skills, and power allowing her to win her Category!
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Way to go Trudy... Doing the Davis Bike Club Race Team proud!
.
Ciao and Out...

Masters Shellack-Down

2010-01-15T08:18:00.000-08:00

In advance . . . thanks to those who made this beating possible:

Mark Adkinson, who we all know and appreciate, makes us look a lot faster and stronger and cool-er than we probably really are. See the rest of the showdown pics and more here.
The saggers and the course marshals who made sure we had clear roads and clear direction: Robin Rolles... Chief Referee, Jill Bowlus/Ann Kelleher... Lead Support Vehicle One, Mary James... Second Support Vehicle, & Lee Millon... Post Race Hospitality

On to the SHELLACK-DOWN! This year, the 45+ers came out this year with a vengeance. After a near-sweep by the 35+ers last year, 45+ers came out with a plan and the game changed a little:

The race format was changed (to win, teams needed all sprints except the final or 1 sprint + the final sprint)
some 35+ers took their "upgrade" to 45+
many notable 35+ers were many miles away from Davis and unable to make the race

All tallied, the 35+ers were outnumbered 2 to 1, but at least it wasn’t foggy and freezing like 09’:

As you look at the race pictures below, keep in mind that the 45ers are in neutral (non-DBC) kits and the 35ers are in DBC kits. Towards the end of the race, it seems like DBC orange is like Pinocchio being swallowed by Monstro the whale.

Soldier on! Despite wet conditions and anemic numbers, the 35+ers went strong into the first sprint, maybe too early. Fred S got the first point and the race was on.
Enter Steggall and Darin S who jumped off the sprint for a 2-man breakaway. (note the tactic here as it comes up later.)

35ers did their best at bringing the break back but couldn't bridge both for the second and the third point.

After sprint #3, it was time for Lee M to go on a 1-man flyer. This time, it was just Lee and 35+ers made sure to keep him close up to the turn to Runge.
Brian H led Jason G out to the turn onto Runge and Jason came around on the inside and hammered: 1 mile TT to the fourth sprint point to stop the bleeding. Score 45=3, 35=1.
Queue the suspense here . . . this is where you may ask yourself, "what happened next"? Those paying attention should have noticed the M45+ers launched a break each time after the Bulkley sprint.

Tactically, we (35+ers) should have anticipated that, but inexperience beat out the day. Ego taking a front-seat, Jason decided to try to lead Doug R out for the fifth sprint. The sprint down Bulkley is a long sprint from the turn and shorter than the Runge sprint. Also, it's tough to judge for non-regular Davis riders (that's Jason). Fading too early and drifting back, it was obvious that Doug was surrounded by 45+ers. Where were all the 35+ers?
Big (Mr. Bowlus) won the sprint w/ Steggall and us 35ers were starting to get cooked (and popped).
Then Fred and some really fast 45+er dude (seriously . . . at that point it was hard to keep track of all those guys) were off the front. Entre . . . 45+er break #3.

In seriousness, the phantom 45er was Ken Hill & he and Fred executed the break perfectly. That was that. The four 35+ers left in the main group tried organizing a chase, but perpetually found a 45+er in the middle of the rotation or on their wheel. Common theme. No chase could be mounted and the day was done. The break stayed away. 45+ers won the 6th sprint and stayed away for the final sprint. Fred, again . . . but today it was long Freddy and strong Ken, not fast Freddy, who won.

That said, it was all smiles at the end and a great day of racing. It was a great tune-up for race season and always is a good time. Hats off to you 45+ers but take note: 35+ers will be smarter next year. Anyone want to start rallying for Masters Showdown 11'?

Thanks for reading . . . JG

2010 Showdown

2010-01-02T21:22:00.000-08:00

Photo Support for the ShowDown provided by

Mark Adkison Hors Categorie Photography

DBC MASTERS SHOWDOWN 2010

Presented by the Davis Bike Club Masters Race Team

Date: Sunday... January 10th 2010

LOCATION... Davis, California

REGISTRATION: Opens January 2010... Day of 9:00am Davis Starbucks (Downtown Davis 3rd an Fst). Park in approved parking only. Race Starts at 10:00am... Please be there early to meet with your Team and go over the pre-race details.
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DIRECTIONS... Google Downtown Davis California 95616

COURSE... 37+ miles... Three 11 mile loops. Role out is from Downtown Davis to I-80 Bridge and Old Davis Rd. Old Davis Rd. to Tremont... Tremont to Buckley. Buckley to Hackman... Hackman to Runge... Runge to Tremont.
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Three Laps at about 11 miles each. There will be two sprint points this year... First Sprint is at Maxwell. Second Sprint is at Vaughn. On the third lap turn back on Old Davis Rd. Finish line is the same as the Start line.
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http://www.mapmyride.com/route/us/ca/davis/189232809525 .

This Event will be held light Rain or Shine... But will be called if the officials feel that conditions warrent cancelling the ShowDown.

EVENTS... 35+ Men's... 45+ Men's... 30+ Women... 45+ Women

30+ Women will be with the 35+ Men... 45+ Women will be with the 45+ Men.
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This event is open to DBC Masters members only!
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PRIZES... Bragging rights for all of 2010

HOW TO ENTER... Entry is free. All that is required is that you have a good time, and show your support!

RULES... There will be a follow vehicle for neutral support... The Moto Ref this year again is Alan Roland.

Chief Referee will make all final calls... All protests must be filed with in 15 minutes of the end of the ShowDown.

FUTURE INFORMATION... Watch your emails for up-dates, and final details

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CIAO...

And the Challenge has been made!

2009-12-27T09:06:00.000-08:00

And the Story goes a little like this... There we were one night sitting around the Fire roasting marshmallows with all the members of the Davis Bike Club Masters Race Team when the subject of Bike Racing came up? Go figure... We were laughing and having a great time when we the Masters 45+ Team were blind sided by a comment made by the Masters 35+ Team! For some reason words were spoken, whether in jest, or a weak attempt at trying to be serious as to how good they thought they might be when it comes to Racing against the likes of we the superior Masters 45+. Well one thing lead to another, and the challenge had been made!... The Masters Showndown had been formed.

Two years ago was our first Masters Showdown, and in the last two years the results have been one win to each Team. We the 45+ winning the first year, and the 35+ Team winning last year. So again this year we will meet on Jan 10th at a location, and course to be disclosed at a later date (South Davis), and again we will do battle to try and decide who will hold the coveted Title of Best Masters Team for 2010.
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So once again we will ask you if you are available to make time to come out, and have a great time with all of your fellow Teammates. You can see from our Masters Team picture that the turn out last year was awesome!

Ps...You can also see from the picture below we were able to catch a picture of the 35+ Team out on one of their Training Rides!

Ps Again... Everyone have a Wonderful a Safe, and a Happy New Year!

Jan10th...Jan10th...Jan10th...Jan10th...Jan10th...

Just Taking Time to say Thank you!

2009-12-24T12:16:00.000-08:00

As always this time of the Year... We the Davis Bike Club Race Team want to take the time to wish you and your Family's a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
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It is an important time of the year when all the seriousness of Bike Racing be placed on the back burner for a while, and we all focus on spending time with your family. For this is going to be the same family that supports you during the Bike Racing season.

Our Team has again grown this year, and we are all looking forward to a Great 2010! We once again want to take the time to say "Thank You" to Robin and all his hard work that he has done for the Team the last couple of years, and we want to say "Welcome" to Jason and Michele. We are all looking forward to their leadership for the next couple of years.
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As I had posted previously, we all take a lot of things for granted when being a part of a Team the size of ours. I can't tell you how much, and how hard the Board of Director's works behind the scenes to try and make things flow smoothly for the Team. From the Meeting's, to events like the Davis 4th of July Crit, to the Dunlop Time Trial, , helping with the Foxy Fall Century , Jason's and Teams unbelievable amount of work they did for the Tour of California's Juniors Crit, to Shawn and Mike's time with the Junior's Team, to all of our new Captain's that are spending a lot of time putting together their Teams for next year, to Joaquin and Kevin's support of the amazingly successful Davis Bike Club's Skill'z Clinic, to Rod's putting together things like the Team rides, all the time spent by Darin S. and Mark H. finding and getting company's to help sponsor our Team for 2010, Michele and her hard work to our ever growing Women's Team, and I could go on and on, and I hope I haven't missed something important!

We just had to take the time to welcome all of our new members, and say welcome back to our returning ones. 2010 looks again like it's going to be an amazing year. Please if you are ever asked to help, try and find a little time to support a great cause, and a Great Team.

Ciao and Out... Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

A Tear in the Fabric of the DBC Masters!

2009-12-16T21:10:00.000-08:00

So you would ask yourself... Does time heal all wounds? Well I guess in the case of the DBC Masters the answer would have to be yes! As in all things in life, there will occasionally come a time when Teammates... As they would say... Butt Heads! What then in the World you would ask yourself might that be? What could possibly create this type of tension that might exist with'n the DBC Masters ranks... Well in this case, it would revolve around for what would be the lack of a better explanation... Who was a better Bike handler? And in this corner we have... Mr. Big (Chris), and in the other corner, we have The Steggall Meister (John). It seems that whenever these two get together there seems to be a built in rivalry, as to who has the better ability to keep their Bikes up-right longer. Well I have to tell you, that in 2009 this all came to a Crashing Crescendo... The final clashing of two great DBC Bike Racers, and Friends.

When out on a ride one Sunny day... The words were finally uttered... "YOU LIE"... followed by "NO YOU LIE" well at that moment, I have to tell you that the friendship that had formed over the years, had finally come to an end. Two of the great DBC Masters Racers had finally started to part ways. Well, now with'n the ranks of the DBC Masters, and of course being the Teammates that we are, we had to, needed to, react quickly, and a devious healing plan was put into place.

Well un-beknown'st to the two of them, we... Their Teammates, sensing this imminent collapse, started a quick series of Love Letters between the two of them. They were of the Bro-mance type... Kinda like... Hey Chris, I'm sorry...You were right, you are a better Bike handler, and I love you Man! Followed by... Hey John... No I'm sorry, you're a better Bike handler, and I love you Man! Well with'n short order the healing process had begun... Neither one of them suspecting that their Teammates were busy giggling on the side lines... Both now thinking that they had won each other over, had decided to call a truce... After a little time one thing led to another, and they decided that it was at a point where they needed to get together, and all I can say is that the pictures below says it all...

Once again we had piece in the DBC Masters camp... And now we all can look forward to an awesome 2010. We the Teammates of these two great guys were successful in mending a big tear in the Universe...

P.S. As you can also see... Their two lovely wives also are enjoying this joyous moment! Thank you to the two of you for helping us bring all of this together!

Another PS moment... I think with that look on Chris' face if I were John... I'd watch out!

Ciao and Out... Another Loving Teammate of two Great Guys!

A Post Thanksgiving Day Ride with the Team

2009-11-28T22:25:00.000-08:00

Hey Davis Bike Club Masters...

We hope all had a Great Thanksgiving! If you were lucky enough to have the four days off, well we really hope that your time off was well spent. For me so far it has been three days so far on the Bike, and I have to tell you I'm loving every minute of it, and I am looking forward to day four tomorrow. Of the time on the bike so far one of our days was our post Turkey day Ride for the Davis Bike Club Race Team.
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After a day of consuming lots of Turkey we had the chance to burn off some of those calories with a post T-Day ride. Thanks to our own Rod F. for putting this together. We all met Friday morning at Wheelworks for a 9:00am departure. Now up until the last minute, this get together was up in the air. Rain was in the forecast, and a call to cancel was put out to a couple of us. Well thank goodness for Rod and his HTFU attitude, when he made the call that the Ride was a go... After all it's only Water!
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It turned out to be an awesome day with perfect weather. Good riding with a great pace, and on the climb up Cantelow (via Gibson/Stieger) a quad burning tempo being laid down by Andreas F. and Doug R. (on his new Velo Vie) had all of us that turned left screaming uncle!

The picture below says it all about what we are all about! A great group of individuals that outside of Racing, just enjoy some time together on a great day! Of course followed by a stop at Peet's for a after ride recovery beverage (Did I just say that?)

Ciao and Out... Me

2009-11-23T07:41:00.000-08:00

ON THIS DAY WE WISH YOU THE VERY BEST OF TIMES. WE HOPE THAT YOU

HAVE A SAFE AND WONDERFUL HOLIDAY!

PLEASE ENJOY YOUR THANKSGIVING DAY, AND IF OUT ON YOUR BIKE... PLEASE BE SAFE!
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We hope and are looking forward to seeing you on our post
Thanksgiving Day ride on Nov 27th
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HAPPY THANKSGIVING
from the Davis Bike Club
RaceTeam Masters!

New Teammate on Board

2009-11-18T13:41:00.000-08:00

News up-Date... In case you missed the announcement to the Race Team we are pleased to bring to your attention the addition of the Velo Vie Bike Company as a sponsor to the Davis Bike Club and Race Team.
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The Velo Vie Management profile statement goes a little like this...
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"Velo Vie was created by two passionate cyclists who wanted to enhance the progress of the bicycle industry. They had a vision to create a company that would provide quality, innovative, and customizable products through an easy-to-use website. The creators were a merger of the minds between a long time bicycle expert and a thoroughly experienced veteran in the technology industry. They saw each of their strengths as a way to properly improve not only a product, but an industry that each of them had such a strong affinity for".

We a few weeks ago had the chance to meet with Dan B of Velo Vie, and I would have to say, to the very best of his ability will do whatever it takes to try and keep his customers happy! I know from certain postings on FaceBook that we have Teammates (MF) that are bouncing off the wall waiting for their Velo Vie bike to show up at the front door. I feel sorry, and am very afraid for the Fed Ex person that brings said bike to one said MF.

Anyway just had to say welcome to Velo Vie to the Davis Bike Club Race Team. We are looking forward to a long, and friendly relationship.

Ciao and Out...

The Year Finally Ends, and it's a Great One!

2009-11-09T21:45:00.000-08:00

Masters... Said loosely! Why you might ask? Well this last weekend we the Davis Bike Race Team (All of us) had a great day! Things started out with an amazing turn out for the Saturday Morning Ride that leaves every Saturday at 8:00am from the Davis WheelWorks. If you are new to our Team, and you have not had the chance to participate in this Davis tradition... Please do so. This Saturday you kinda felt like a rider in a Grand Tour Race in that... It sure seemed like a long way back up to the front!

Hey Fred... Are you ready to make our move?

Well after one of those days that you really really wanted to keep on riding... As in forever! But alas as always, all good things had to come to an end. It then for most of us was a quick run home, and time to get ready for our next activity of the day.... The Race Teams Paaarrrtaayyy! The end of the year get together, to take time to say "Thank You" to all of the Davis Bike Club Race Team members that participated in making 2009 a very very successful year! Yes... We not only finished #1 in Northern California, as best all round TEAM! We also managed to clinch 1st places in other various categories.

There were awards for Best... Well lot's of different things. These were awards went to individuals that really worked hard to help the Davis Bike Club have the successful year that they did!

What we all voted on: Most Valuable Race reports- Joaquin Feliciano -Most Valuable Elite- Chris Stastny-Most Valuable Jr- Zack Wick-Most Valuable Woman- tied between Marianne Hernandez and Michele Feikert- Most Valuable 35+- Rod Fernandez- Most Valuable 45+- tied between Mike Pugh and Fred Schnaars- Most Valuable Volunteer- Robin Rolles (was this also tied with LeeMillon)-Most Improved- Darin Salk

(Picture below was the great time we had at Bistro 33 in lovely downtown Davis)

Of all the awards, the one worth mentioning amongst all the good times we were having, was one of our more notable awards. It has been a Davis Bike Club Race Team tradition for years, and is one that is hard to ignore. It is what we call the (CRASHMEISTER AWARD) it is an award that gets handed down every year to an individual that has shown seemingly their inability to keep their bicycle up-right! So needless to say all potenial candidates would really like to avoid this honor... So without further notice (drum roll), the award this year went to our very own Douglas R. (you know who you are). Thanks again for being a great sport, and we are very glad that you were not seriously hurt.

(below picture of the CRASHMEISTER AWARD that is handed down year to year)

PS...I don't want it again!

In closing we really had to say "Thank You" to all of you that Raced your hearts out this year... For without you we could not have accomplished what it is that we did!

Sadly as with all Teams we are losing some of our members to other ventures... Sad to see them go, but happy to have had you!

Happily we on the same note are taking on a new group of Racers that we really hope will experience what it is that we have all experienced in the past, and that is we are without question the Best Team that there is in Northern California when it comes to showing that we really work hard to show our support to you, your family and your time on the Davis Bike Club Race Team!

Ciao and Out... Me... and really looking forward to a great 2010

A Great Team Day!

2009-11-02T22:15:00.000-08:00

Hey Davis Race Team members... This last Sunday an impromptu group got together for a great ride out, and around Davis. We met at the StarBucks by Sutter Davis Hosp. We started out with a nice pace out to Winters. We were basically riding the Tues/Thurs night ride to Winters. Once in Winters we stopped to re-group, and at that point we broke up, and started out to do the Cantelow Loop. A small group of us then rode at a fairly brisk pace, and adding the Gibson/Steiger loop to our ride. We tagged up with the others at the top of Cantelow, had a small rest break, and shortly we were on our way back to Davis. Great pace line riding under absolutely beautiful Davis skies. It was one of those days that you just wanted to keep riding. It reminded me of a Video that we posted to this Blog a long time ago... Something for the newbies!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C_TVhc3bFqM

Best part of the day?... Of course the Company!

Ciao and Out... Me

Foxy's Kitchen Is a Team Sport

2009-10-30T11:03:00.000-07:00

Quick shout out to Jason Brasel (Cat 4 Masters & all-around good guy) for picking up chef duties for Foxy's Fall Century this year. He was on top of everything and the food was awesome. Organizing dinner for 1200+ people is no small task & it was hard to tell that this was his first year.

This was the second year that I took care of a good chunk of my volunteer hours in the Foxy's kitchen. Throughout this year, I also stuffed race packets and marshalled a wet and cold street corner in February. Foxy's hardly seems like volunteering in comparison.

Interacting and working together with friends and teammates from 5:30 AM onward always makes DBC seem more like a team and a tight-knit group than just a bunch of racers who wear the same kit. It's great to see familiar faces in the kitchen, within the rider ranks, and others who are volunteering for other race needs. I look forward to seeing you next year! -- JG

Putting the 'steak' in 'mistake.'

2009-10-24T16:31:00.000-07:00

As most of you know, part of my contribution to the DBC race team comes in the form of co-coordinating the weekly Racing Skillz Ride and committing to being ‘that guy’ for the team in the phrase that gives every new racer hope: “At least I’m faster than that guy.” So since I tend to work with lots of people even newer than me to the racing scene, I’ve started a collection of what I call Joaquin’s Rules for Heroic and Athletic Cycling Achievement, or ‘HAKA Rules,’ for short. Here’s the newest one that I just developed during today’s Foxy’s Workers Ride: HAKA Rule #26 – Never eat a steak sandwich when you’ve still got over 30 miles to ride.

It went down like this. At the Mankas Corner lunch stop I decided to just refill my bottles and keep on going since a sizable group including Lee, Marianne, Licatesi, Jim Sharp, and Freddo was all ready to head out when I rolled up. A few miles down the road, when we stopped to let a few more folks catch up to us, Lee produces this steak sandwich from his back pocket and says, “Joaquin, do you want to have this steak sandwich?” A number of questions should have come to the forefront of my mind to make me pause before accepting the offer, such as, “Why the hell did Lee have a steak sandwich in his jersey pocket? How long has it been there? Who made it? Does it have horseradish sauce?” But, no, he pretty much had me at, “steak.” After the first bite I tried to stuff it into my jersey pocket so I could sort of nibble on it for the rest of the ride. However, it was immediately apparent that it wouldn’t fit, ironically because I’ve probably eaten too many steak sandwiches in my past. So I HTFU'd and ingested that sucker faster than you can say, “I can't believe it's not butter!" And then, in a moment of clairvoyance, I joked to Marianne, “Wow, I think that sandwich is going to make the rest of this ride a whole lot harder.”

How right I was. By the time we hit Pleasants Valley Rd. I knew that there was a significant chance (alpha = 0.05) that there was going to be some extravagant beef-flavored chunkage going on. All of the signs were there: copious salivation, cold sweat, light headedness, extreme remorse and guilt. Just as I resigned myself to the ignominy of asking my teammates for a wee vomit break, I got my chance - Lee let a gap form while he slowed down to make the turn onto Cantelow Rd. Once he turned, I was 100m back from everyone else, they were accelerating, and the time was right to put my foot down to have a proper barf.

Lucky for me, I have plenty of experience with this sort of thing from my Navy days. And I had inadvertently followed Joaquin’s Rule #8 for Minimal Suffering While Vomiting: Chew well and don’t eat anything with sharp edges. Here’s the procedure, in case you need it in the future: Pull over near some grass or other uneven surface to avoid splashing the bike or yourself; don't worry about unclipping because, frankly, you probably won't have time; lean out over your shoes so your upper body is 90 degress to the wind; keep your head inclined slightly to avoid hurling out your nose; take a deep breath; and CHARGE! Repeat as necessary.

Dog, that felt good! A little lukewarm Subtle Orange Perpetuum to rinse out the mouth and I was as bright as a shiny new penny. My heart rate didn’t even have time to drop out of LE by the time I was back on my bike looking forward to finishing the ride and having second lunch at Steady Eddy’s .

2009 wrap up

2009-10-22T16:51:00.000-07:00

How DBC RT got me through my first race season…

San Bruno Hill Climb- Dawn Spinella and I stuck together and verbally supported each other, climbing through the fog.

Cal Aggie Crit- I had reg’ed for this crit but was still way too chicken to do it, so I watched it from the sidelines. Robin Rolles and Jason Eiserich kept telling me I should be out there (in a kind way)… something about HTFU I think. :P

Cherry Pie Crit- OK, I’ll try this crit thing again. Kevin McSpadden was at the bottom of the “hill” reminding me to shift.

Snelling RR- First overnight road trip with the women. We had 8 women racing at this race! This is when we got to meet Anna Fischer. We all miss Anna!

Berkeley TTT- Ann Kelleher and I were going to tackle the “3 Bears”. We pre-rode the course with Joaquin and Darin. We learned about teamwork and using each other’s strengths at different parts of the course.

Madera Stage Race- Robin Rolles helped me with bike mechanics and Rod Fernandez made sure to wipe the sun block away from my eyes. Thanks guys!

Land Park Crit- Leslie Halkett and I stuck together and finished the race.

Bariani RR- Carolyn and I braved the hail together! Kevin McSpadden threw a towel over me when the race was done because I was shivering so bad.

Wente Vineyard Crit- There was a whole gang of DBC that I could hear cheering from the sidelines… much, much louder than Mom and Dad!

Joeseph Mendez Crit- You guys are AWESOME! Carol Hockridge and I raced with the guys for the first time. Tons of motivation and cheering from Joaquin on the sidelines. I remember him yelling for me to “Get back on!” one time.

Modesto RR- Niki Slaton and I decided to try a RR with the guys. 100F+ degrees… I was dropped after one lap. But I kept riding, and each time a group went by I could hear DBC guys cheering for me to keep going, or hop on the back of the pack. Do you know how motivating it is to hear about 10 “Go Michele!”’s in a row!?

Folsom Bicycle Plus Crit- I did back to back crits. A whole team of DBC (Joaquin, Ann, Monica, Kelly, and I know I’m forgetting more) surrounded me to rip off the outer number, massage, motivate, etc.

Sugar CRM Memorial Day Crit- This was the loneliest race EVER! I was the only DBC women out there and I think the only DBC racer besides Cody Tapley. It really does help to have teammates, both in the race and on the sidelines.

Golden State Crit- OUCH! So many teammates helped me after I was injured in this race- THANK YOU! And I must admit… the hardest thing you all did was made sure I stayed off the bike until healed!

Dunnigan Hills RR- back after 2.5 months of no racing! Joaquin Feliciano was there with his car when I broke a spoke after the finish line and gave me a ride back to the parking lot. Thanks dude, that would have been a long walk in my socks!

Folsom Cyclebration weekend- I had so much fun racing with Leslie Creed and Johanna Trueblood. We were working that weekend for our teammate Leslie Halkett who got 3rd in the Omnium.

Henleyville RR- Last race of the season with Niki Slaton and Leslie Halkett… so much fun. Kevin McSpadden was there with my new favorite post ride drink- some tasty pineapple coconut drink!

Thank you all for a great 2009 and I'm looking forward to 2010!!
Michele

RaceTeam Night

2009-10-21T09:02:00.000-07:00

So last night we had our monthly RaceTeam meeting... I have to say it was really nice to see such a large turn out! The evening started with intro's, and seeing some of the old faces, but more so getting to meet a lot of our new members. After a few words from our out going Race Team director (Robin Roles). Thanks Robin for all your hard work, and a great year!

Robin introduced our new RaceTeam Director for 2010 (Jason Eiserich) and our new Asst. (Michele Feikert). After a few words from both, Michele introduced the owner Ken, of Ken's Bike and Ski (Sponsor) about our Team night. Sounds like it is going to be a lot of fun.

One thing Ken talked about, and is a focus for Jason and Michele for 2010 is the importance of exposure.
Getting the Davis Bike Club Race Teams name out there. As Jason had pointed out, it is amazing how many local people don't know we excist. Well one thing Ken did point out, that made him very happy was an article, and cover shot that was was published by our very own Woodland Healthcare. Who would that person be you might ask? Well... Our very own Dr. Steve Nowicki

As Ken stated you can't buy that type of exposure... If you had not seen it, right across Steve shoulders
was one of our sponsors ... Ken's Bike and Ski. It this type of stuff that we love to see. Lets keep it up, and as Jason said... Know what's on your Kit! Know your sponsor's

Up next was Carol Hockridge of One Pilates and Cycling. Carol as always did a great job of talking about the benefits, and the importance of developing your Core, and how it will help in your cycling. They tried to get me to go up and stand on that silly ball... Oh sure nothing like an Old Guy bouncing into the wall. Demo kindly done by Ruth, and Sprinter Man Ethan! All enjoyed what it was Carol had to say.

Afterwards we broke out, for those that wanted to, into small breakout groups. The P1/2 guys, the 35+1/2/3's, the Women's Team, the 4's, and a small group of we the 45+ to talk about our 2010 Race season. We being the large RaceTeam that we are, I certainly think this is a great idea, and helps each group develop as they see fit. It also really helps Jason, because he doesn't have to answer to everyone, just the Captain's of each group. Yep! We all had are hands out..... Gimme Gimme! Jason said "NO" senior citizen discounts to the 45+r's... Not fair is what I say!

That brought an end to the evening... Just wanted to say Thank You to all that came down. Big Team showings always re-enforces what a great Team we are!

Ciao and Out... Me

The Continuation of a Great Year!

2009-10-13T22:49:00.000-07:00

In a effort to keep things flowing I thought I would talk quickly about some of the goods things that went our way in 2009.
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Hmmm... Lets see, we had a handful of our fellow Masters up-grade. Guys that went from the 5's to the 4's... Guy's that went from the 4's to the 3's...
Notable up-grades were Brian H. 35+, Jason G. 35+, Mark H. 35+, Lee M. 45+, Darin S. 45+, and Rod F. 45+ all made their 3 up-grade, and Mike P. from a 3 to a 2... Congrats guys.
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We also had our share of podiums last season, with a lot of our guys placing in the top 10, and a number of our Masters placing in the top three, along with our share of first places.
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Do to the hard work of a lot of guys, we were also able to in our 35+ Masters place 3rd in the NCNCA standings, and our 45+Masters placed 8th, missing 7th by three points.
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The season was so full with action, wins, and podiums it became an ever increasing challenge to try and keep up with the things on this Blog! Were hoping with the edition of a few more editors
that posts may come on a more regular basis.
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Anyway... Ciao and Out... Fred

A Quick Reflection on Things...

2009-10-06T11:56:00.000-07:00

October 5th...
No posts since Summer! Maybe just too much Racing going on? 33 for me this year. Racing is kind of a funny past time. After a long season, January/September you really start to look for the Racing to come to an end, and then by October you are already wanting the 2010 season schedule to come up, so you can look at all the Races you want to do next year. In 2008 I said that I was going to cut back on the number of Races that I was going to do in 2009. 2008 I did 27... Go figure! As you scan the new season you keep remembering all the great things about a Race. The fun you had. The fun maybe you didn't have. None the less you again tell yourself... Oh I've got to do that one!

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But it's October and it's the OFF season! For some it's a time to take a break, you know use the off season to venture into OTHER things. Spend more time with the family, and in our case some Rock Climbing. For others lips smacking and waiting for the first sign of snow. Some of us didn't even take a break! It was Road Racing Bikes, and lets jump straight into Cross (CycleCross)!
Was never sure how that worked into a Coaches plan of wanting you to ease up for awhile.
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Anyway regardless, the 2009 Road season is behind us. It was a great year... A great season... Lot's of good memories... Great times with your friends, and Teammates.
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So for now enjoy your off time, think of the great times you had, and the great times you'll still have (Foxy Fall) this winter.

Again Ciao and Out for now... Hopefully I'll get the energy to Blog again, and talk a little about 2009, and what's up for 2010.

Me.....

Time to get up to Speed!

2009-06-17T12:38:00.000-07:00

Alright DBC Masters... It's been a while, and the keys have been kinda quiet. I think between Racing, Race Rides, Training, and my recovery drinks I just didn't seem to want to find the time to post!

Well anyway here's a little bit about what has been going on. We the DBC Masters have had some good results at a lot of the races that we have attended. First up is a picture from the Panoche Valley Road Race. The podium shot is of our very own Lee M. standing in the second position (Lee taking the time to really thank Nelson and Will for all their help). You can read about Lee's race in our Race Report section.

Because of his awesome first half of the year Lee has now decided to make the jump to the Cat 3's... CONGRATS!

I'll have more stuff following soon... Ciao

MAY IS BIKE MONTH (AGAIN)

2009-04-27T10:03:00.000-07:00

Hey DBC Masters...

Well it's has been a year, and it is that time of the year again. Last year Davis along with the help of the Davis Bike Club won the May is Bike Month competition! (On a side note the major portion of miles came from the Race Team!) This is an annual event hosted by Sacramento and the greater Sacramento Region.
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Since we are now going to be the home of the US Bicycling Hall of Fame. http://californiabicyclemuseum.org/documents/press_releases/cbm_release_halloffame.pdf
It would only be appropriate to again show the Greater Sacramento Area what a great Cycling community we are. So you would say... HEY FRED! How do we do that? WELL... It's simple! You go to this site and register yourself, and then daily, or as you please you simply log your miles. http://www.bikecommutemonth.com/reg1.asp
Register as the Davis Bike Club... We are in the Drop down menu.
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So lets let the FUN begin! Thanks to all that are going to support this program and all that it represents for Davis and the Cycling community.
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Ciao and Out... Fred and the Davis Bike Club Masters

P.S. During the month of May I will keep the link at the top of this Blog so you can easily link to the May is Bike Month site.

WARNERVILLE 2009

2009-03-29T18:34:00.000-07:00

Warnerville Road Race an Epic day!
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The Inaugural Warnerville Road Race took place this last Sunday. This race had it all... • Howling 20+ mile an hour winds• A grueling 1.3 mile rutted gravel section with rocks and potholes• Two railroad crossings• An oil slick• Fast descent section• Uphill finish This race will become a classic that everyone will circle on their calendars. With the features listed above, it was truly an epic day. But, to top it all off... This race marked the day the peloton saw the return of DBC Master's great teammate, Jason Eiserich. After taking a year off, Jason was making his debut back to competitive racing. As you know, Jason suffered some wrecks that would have stopped the average person from racing again. Back to back broken collar bones with surgery to mend the wounds were, to say the least, an awful experience. Yes, it was great day of racing, but having Jason along side us made it an epic day! Jason, the DBC Masters welcome you back to racing and look forward to riding with you this season. I know I speak for the entire team when I say we missed you.
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Warnerville was a great Race! Thank you Velo Promo! We look forward to hopefully seeing this Race again next year...

Thanks to all that came out today... Rod
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We're from Davis... Seems like a light breeze to me! What 30/40mph winds.

Trust me the wind is there... Argghhhh!

Our DBC Masters favorite... HTFU'n

What the DBC Masters are all about... The very best Teammates!

In addition to Rod's report on DBC Masters good showing at Warnerville.

Below is a report from one our newest Team Member, and his thoughts about Racing and Riding with the DBC Masters... Enjoy

Hey team, Bariani was my first race and I thought that was a good test of my new racing skills. Warnerville being my second race ever and now with a combined group of 4/5s, I really only had a goal of finishing with a group or not very far back. Well I did end up finishing on my own but I will get to that later.

The race started with a 3 mile neutral start with the wind at our backs. DBC broke into two small groups within the pack with one group at the front and me in the second a hand full of riders back. Once we turned onto Warnerville Road, I was trying to get my bearings in the pack and keep track of the other DBC riders. The first few miles were a right cross/head wind that was pretty strong and I was trying to stay on the left side of the pack. Towards the first turn I crept to the front of the pack meeting up with other DBC riders. After the first turn we got a bit of tail wind and Rod, Nelson and Derek wanted (I believe) to drive the pack through the next few turns in order to keep it strung out somewhat. Once we got into the long straight away before the unpaved section, we let up on the pace. The tailwind and rollers felt good and I was getting used to the riders around me. Then we hit the unpaved section. All I wanted to do through this section was to survive. We had a few DBC towards the front going in. I slide back some places through this section, staying somewhat away from most riders. After coming out of this section, I thought it was hard drudging through it, but I found a good line and would stick to it through the other two laps. We finally came up tothe turn onto Warnerville Road (W.R.) and hit the wind again.

I felt the second lap was pretty sweet. Again I found myself towards the front of the pack keeping my eye out for other DBC guys. At one point I saw that a DBC rider was up the road with two other guys. I think this was towards the end of W.R. And I found myself with Derek and Rod at the front of the main pack. Rod was great in his direction through the next few miles. We tried to control the pack in order to allow Nelson to get a bigger gap. Rod and I would chase down riders who wanted to bridge the gap. At one point two Z-Team riders tried to organize and catch the break. I broke out in front and quickly started to soft pedal slowing them down. I tried to stay in between them as they were trying to switch off. I thought I was successful in breaking their rhythm to the point that they gave up. Somewhere down the road I drifted back a few places on the right side of the pack. I looked left and drifted ever so slightly as a rider came up the right side. It was almost the end of the race for me because he hit me. I stayed up, but he rode his bike through the ditch and eventually back up onto the road. He had some good handling skills. Right before the unpaved section I found myself towards the front getting a draft off of a big guy.We turned onto the road with a slight head wind. I decided it was best to drift back in the pack a little getting some draft and conserving energy over the dirt. Again I found my line and survived it.

Coming out of the unpaved section, the break didn't survive. I guess a guy flatted and Nelson and the third guy couldn't keep the pace. We absorbed them and it was good to see a DBC guy in the pack. I was concentrating so hard that I didn't realize we lost a substantial portion of the pack in unpaved section and the rest of the DBC riders. A Z-Team rider was organizing the pack to echelon to separate us from the chase group. At certain points there were about half dozen guys working a echelon but it never got super organized. I guess enough to keep us out front. I was just trying to survive this 5.5 mile stretch in the wind with this group. At times I thought I was burning the match at both ends and soon I would pop. We made the last turn off of W.R. And got the tailwind. I knew this was good because I could finally get some rest for my legs. At certain points Nelson and myself were driving the train. At one point I told him that I wasn't sure I could drag myself through the unpaved with the group. We made that final turn into the unpaved section and I did as before. I was at the front and then drifted back 6-12 guys getting a draft and conserving energy. I found my line and stuck to it. I ended up making it through with the front group. I tried to get some drafts to recover from the dirt. The pace was slow at first, 11mph at one point I think.

The pace started picking up and I found myself on the left turning onto W.R. And a strong cross/head wind. After a bit of this I decided to drive up front and saw Nelson driving it. I got in next to him to protect him from the wind and give him a rest. From there we tried to drive it home, trading on and off being in the wind. I really didn't know it until the end but we broke 15-20 riders into two groups of 7 and 8-13. We crested the last hill and Nelson said he would lead me out. I thought I felt good but as soon as we hit the last uphill to the finish, I went over some rough road, shifted a few gears lower and thought my legs were going to give out. I wanted to finish with the pack but they were driving it, Nelson looked back and I could only shake my head that I wasn't going to make it up with those six guys. It may have been psychological (being the second race) or fatigue. I drifted back and looked to see how much of a gap I had on the other riders. It was a good gap and I wasn't going to let them over take me. I finished by myself but in seventh place and ahead of that group. Rod also tells me that I probably finished 1st amongst the Cat 5's. Good race guys and thanks for the support.

Lessons Learned:

1. I am strong enough to ride with 4s.

2. I need better climbing legs for uphill finishes into the wind.

3. I need to leave my guts on the road at the finish. (Personal comment... I like that one)

4. DBC is a "GREAT" group of guys to ride with.

Sunday Team Ride

2009-03-08T17:13:00.000-07:00

Great turnout for the gorgeous 75 mile ride today! Thanks again to Rod, Robin and Fred for putting it all together. No porta-potties installed on the course yet but fortunately no one needed one.

The group left downtown Davis at 9:00, rode to the course and did one lap as a group, another at race pace then rode back. Thank you all for coming!

Today was nice and calm but it was howling during last year's race! A porta-potty that was delivered to the north side of the road (about where the railing ends) got blown over...
...to the other side!

Here is a crummy video taken with the same camera, my phone; sorry but it sure looked more fluid and a lot better when viewed on the phone screen. Oh well, here it is anyway. Turn down the sound because the wind noise is extreme due to my phenomenal speed.

Changes a Com'in Up!

2009-03-04T08:23:00.000-08:00

Hey DBC Masters... Just a post to remind you that this weekend is Daylight savings time.
(Remember Spring Forward). Also a couple of notes as to what is happening, and some changes that are coming along. Starting this Saturday, the Saturday Morning Ride is being moved up to a 8:00am start time. Meeting place is at the front of the Davis Wheel Works (247 F st). Second we are going to start the Tues/Thurs Evening Rides (March 10th). This ride is about 40+miles, and is a P5/P6 ride (Hard 20mph+). Terrain is (T1) Flat. We will meet at the usual starting spot on the back side of Sutter Davis Hosp. (Covell and the Frontage rd. (John Jones) across from the Starbucks). Rides are starting at 5:30pm until further notice when they will move to a 6:00pm start time. As an option the Freund Family ride which has been going on all winter will continue. Their ride starts at 5:30 at the corner of Lake and Russell (Also a P5/P6/T5 hills ride). For all you Time Trial type's we have be told that the Wednesday Putah Creek Time Trail will be starting on March 18th. This is a flat 10 mile TT (5 out/5 back). You can call Davis WheelWorks for details. Also as another option you can attend the Aggie Team Ride on Tuesdays. They meet on the UCD Campus. Start time is 3:15 at the ASUCD Bike Barn. Well Masters there you have it, the season is in full force, and the longer days will certainly make getting out in the evenings a lot easier. We hope to start seeing our old Teammates again, and REALLY looking forward to seeing our new Teammates out on these rides.

Ciao... Your DBC Masters Race Team

P.S. Remember our Team Ride this Sunday

DBC Race Team Jr's Tour of California

2009-02-13T16:39:00.000-08:00

Ok... Enough is enough. This blog sadly has been to quiet over the last couple of weeks.
You'd think with all that has been going on we'd be able to come up with something to chat about! Well on that note what would be better than to wish our DBC Juniors an unbelievable amount of good luck this Sunday. We the DBC Race Team in all Categories have representation of the DBC Best!
I know from the chit chat that has been flying around that this has become an "A" race for all that are Racing. So for the DBC Members that will be out there on Sunday, we will be screaming for you at the top of our lungs!
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So to...
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Will....Karch....Kyle....Charlie....Spencer....Cami....April...Kayleen....Robby....Torey....Alex...Cody....AJ...Zach.
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Race your hearts out, and remember you are doing the Davis Bike Club proud!
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Ciao... Your DBC Masters Race Team

2009 Early Bird Road Race

2009-01-28T14:39:00.000-08:00

Hey DBC Masters...
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What can you say? .... Nuff said!
Way to go Lee.

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Results from the Earl Bird Patterson Pass Road Race...

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Masters ... 45+ 4/5
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This is just the top Ten...
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1. 747 "LEE MILLON 254073 DAVIS BIKE CLUB"
2. 791 Richard Gelsi-Medeot 225191 Unattached
3. 773 Randy Floyd 90079 Unattached
4. 787 John Wagnon 266614 Liquid Fitness/Adageo Energy Reno
5. 783 Russell Voss 258026 Now Direct
6. 777 Scott Martin 22722 Team Bicycle Trip
7. 781 Jerome Heiberger 15679 SERT/Sho-Air
8. 776 Doug Houston 269927 Victory Velo/ProActive Personal Training
9. 770 marc hamlin 275127 Pacific State Bank Cycling Team
10. 780 James Torrence 55200 Unattached
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(Lee's Race Report below)
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Pretty big turnout; I think close to 40 in my category! Wet roads, loaded with gravel and some mud. Sun came out but rain threatened for most of the day. Rollers and false flats with uphill trend for the first 20 miles then it ramps into a fairly steep climb. I got dropped from front group during the climb. got passed by several racers on the descent. I tried to latch on but got dropped there too.

Finally back on the false flats and joined 8 or so guys to chase. It took a while for the group to work smoothly but eventually reeled in a rider here and a rider there who were dropped by the strong break of 6 or 7 riders. Kept an eye on the computer and noted to our chase group that we still have over 10 miles to go. Plenty of room to chase. About 7 miles to go we caught a glimpse of the front group. A couple of guys got excited and started hammering but eventually our chase group resumed working together. I think the break saw us too. We seem to stop gaining. Our chase ramps up and after a few rollers we were clearly gaining ground. Funny because once it became clear that we had a strong potential to catch them, our chase group stopped working together! A few shouts and yells from several motivated chasers did no good. Finally 3 or 4 of us put our heads down and committed to bridge. Within a few minutes we caught them. There are now about a dozen of us.

The original break was visibly deflated at having been caught. Everyone relaxes for a moment start to drink, eat and even chat with each other. I look at my computer and I calculate less than a mile to the finish! At about the same time someone yells "There's Highway 5!" I look up and ahead I see a roller with a bunch of people at the top -- THE FINISH! We caught the break with less than a mile to go! Everyone started jockeying for position with people seemingly refusing to take a pull and content to set up some sort of sprint. I finished off my 2nd bottle and was feeling good so I decide to go early. Quick look and no one latched on! I see the Velo Promo 200 meter sign and redlined it. I see a bunch of people standing around yelling but all I hear is my labored gasps for air then I saw a white line on the road. While checking results on our way out several guys came up to congratulate me and one of them said "Ballsy move dude, you went way early!".
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Hmmm, I'll have to remember not to do that again... ;-D.
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Lee

PS: It was great to recognize some of the faces from last season and say HEY to those we race with or against. Met some great guys and hope to see them again.

2009-01-22T14:04:00.000-08:00

(Photo courtesy of Hors Categorie)
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Hey Masters...

So you would say what's this all about? These guys aren't 35+... Well I know that, but I figured that if you took their combined ages, and we gave them the DBC Masters two for one deal... You know! It would take the two of them to beat one of us type things. We could make an exception just this one time. :) What we wanted to do was take the time to congratulate Paul and Taylor for being picked up by two Pro Teams... Paul to Bissell, and Taylor to the Lance Armstrong (Trek/LiveStrong) U-23 team. Paul a former, but always a DBC Member, and Taylor a former DBC Jr, and who's Dad is a DBC Master (currently healing from a injury to his neck). Jim we wish you the best, and a speedy recovery. It certainly is going to be very exciting this year to be able to cheer on a couple of our own as they Race in the 2009 season. If you haven't seen the article, or received John's link, both were featured in the Davis Enterprise. Thanks to Paul and Taylor for showing everyone what the Davis Bike Club is all about...

Ciao...

"Crossing Over"

2009-01-14T11:50:00.000-08:00

(Series Winner)

Modified by me... Congrats Shawn for doing the Davis Bike Club Race Team proud!

(Shawn's report below)

For those among our masters squad who don't perhaps tee it up until the leaves start coming off and the air holds an early morning chill I wanted to honor and thank them for the strong showing during the cross season just passed. I was regularly joined by my brothers in the orange and blue toeing the start lines in the heat, the rain, the mud, the sand and the biting cold. There was not a race I did in NorCal where there wasn't a DBC kit present, usually several. Clementi was a fixture, Nowicki, Grefath, Roberts and Parks regulars and even those young'uns under 35 like the Staz and Bruno were everywhere I went.

This is my 5th year racing cross. For those that haven't given it a go I highly recommend it. For those that are time challenged to get in those longer training rides that allow you to compete in the summer road races, cross is a time to really use that fitness gained incrementally over the summer. I found quickly this year that the beating I took on the race rides would allow me to become the hammer and not the nail this year during cross, but it wasn't easy. I approached it like I have every year, use the fitness, tune it up with intervals and technique work and let it rip. This year however was different.

The first race in the Sacto Series (shout out to Rich Maile for a great series) was at Del Paso Park. It was warm and sunny and the course a beast with lots of grass, much of it on tall switchback turns that sucked away momentum, mixed with high-speed single/double track. A strong mans course, a big mans course. Funny thing was I won. I was able to hang with the lead break and felt tremendous. I pushed ridiculously big gears through the grass for a guy 142 lbs (dripping wet) and in the end had a margin of safety. Interesting...

Race two was in Vacaville, hot, windy, hilly, dry. I liked the hilly thing, not so much the wind. To make it more interesting I had just jumped off a plane from SoCal where the family watched the Trojans pummel the Ducks. Hit Sac Metro at 10:58, racing at 1:00pm. Race blew apart from the gun as tempo was high and so was the heat. Bless Trudy for being on hand with Tim Roberts and willing to hand up bottles, it made a huge difference the last 20 minutes. The legs revolted from the plane flight and I found myself dropping off on lap two. Then somewhere inside the little voice that too often says "it's too hard back off" instead said " look idiot, you won the first race and you can't just fold, suck it up and go!" and I did, I worked harder than I have in a very long time and pulled myself from 7th to 5th in half a lap and sprinted into fourth with two turns to go. That's how it finished. Still leading...

Race Three was part of the NCNCA cup so fields were large and again the course was tough. Venue was Discovery Park and the course was a combination of grass and hard-pack with a fun little section of gooey mud over concrete (can you say slick) under the bridge just for grins that was tied to some off-camber sections, tough in, tough out. Again this event tied to a weekend away and again it was fly home that morning, only earlier (up at 5:00) so Karch could race the early race, as he too was leading the overall. This event re-made me as a bike-racer. I re-learned the art of suffering and recovery when all systems say "no" instead of "go". The fitness was there as the training had been good, but the body was crumped. I ended up in a chase group and slowly, painfully slowly, fought back to the second chase and on the last lap leap-frogged from 4th to 2nd. I went from immense discomfort to "no chain" on that last lap as that little voice was back telling me "they're hurting, hunt 'em down". I did. Hey, this was fun indeed. Still leading, imagine that...

Race Four was what "cross" is all about, wet, windy, muddy, nasty. Date was December 21, the weekend of all the snow and we rolled off in horizontal rain into the wind and a balmy 42 degrees, ah lovely. The drivetrain immediately howled as Folsom Lake sand was in everything and I prayed for no mechanicals, well at least it wasn't hot! Legs felt wooden at first but opened up nicely and the harder one worked the warmer one was, so let's work. Had a great back and forth battle with two good friends who ironically had turned into my two closest rivals. one rode away, I dropped the other and ended up 3rd. Still leading, one race to go...

The series format allowed one to toss their worst result and also provided double points for the finale. What this meant was that there were three riders I needed to watch and I could give no quarter to any of them. Former DBC mate Todd Marshall (now with Armstrong) worried me most as he was very strong in races three and four and only needed to beat me by two placings. Last event was on January 3rd at Sutters Landing in mid-town along the river. Sun was back but so was the cold, biting cold. Course was a mixture of sandy single-track, gravel packed levy roads, sand beach and a couple good run-ups. Saw Todd pre-race wand wished him luck. He was clearly happy he sun was back as was I and I knew he would try to blow the field up, he didn't diappoint. Start was 100m of double-track, along the river with a 170 degree turn and climb up the levy then a good 500m into the head-wind big-ring hammer-fest along the levy before dropping back down to the river and starting the windy technical back and forth along the river. Field was about 50 total and as predicted Todd lit it up immediately attacking and jumping clear into the 170 turn and up the climb. I was 4th wheel and at the top Todd began to pull away with one other rider while the field imploded into the wind. Soon the chase was down to 4 and the gap at about 10 seconds. Among the top 6 in these two groups were three 45+ and three 35+, not so good for me with Todd up the road. To make matters worse I crashed on the first trip onto the sandy beach. No damage but I was gapped off the chase, crap. At that moment a switch inside just flipped, I was not going to screw this up. There were way too many hours spent at 5:00am and 10:00pm on the computrainer sweating my arse off, too many missed dinners with Bev and the kids training, too many hours away from other things I love to do. I picked up the bike clipped in and was a different rider. I caught the chase on lap three and rode right through them. On lap four Todd was only about five seconds up. I caught him coming out of the single track and rode away before the big run up. By lap six I had 20 seconds, by the finish I was 35 seconds clear of Todd and about 10 seconds back of the 35+ series winner who was the rider that had gone away with Todd on lap one. I won by a large margin and there was absolutely nothing left, it was awesome.

That night with about 150 others I celebrated the series at The Old Soul Bakery in Mid Town Sac and pulled on the overall winners jersey. What made it even more special, I got to watch my son pull one on about 10 minutes before me. I've been doing this for 20 years now and I have to say that is a moment that I will long remember. The win was not just mine, but this teams. All the training rides, race rides and simply the genuine camaraderie in this group makes one a better rider. So for hammering me inside out all summer I thank you one and all. I can't wait until next year...

2008-12-23T08:21:00.000-08:00

AS 2008 COMES TO A CLOSE...WE THE DBC

MASTERS RACE TEAM WANT TO TAKE THE

TIME TO WISH YOU, AND YOUR FAMILIES

THE VERY VERY BEST DURING THE HOLIDAYS.

WE HOPE THAT YOU CAN TAKE SOME TIME,

AND SPEND THEM WITH FAMILY MEMBERS

OR FREINDS. IN TRUE DBC MASTERS FASHION

CERTAINLY TAKE SOME TIME,

AND GO OUT AND ENJOY YOUR BIKE!

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CIAO... Your DBC Masters Race Team

DBC RACE TEAM CLINIC 101/102

2008-12-15T22:32:00.000-08:00

Hey Davis Bike Club Members...

As we post to the Masters Blog we usually always have something to say about something that... Well we the Masters did. Well last Saturday (12/6) we "ALL" had the chance to attend a Bike Skills Clinic that was being offered by the Davis Bike Club Race Team, and our own Jesse Moore
(jesse@mooreperformancecoaching.com). The notice had gone out weeks in advance, and it was to be presented as a 101 Basic Skills Clinic, and the 102 Advanced Skills Clinic. The 101 clinic is a Basic Bike Skills clinic that involves a chance to do some of the things that you would want to learn in a controlled environment, and not in the... "I learned it the hard way environment"! As we all rolled up Saturday morning the usual valley fog had set in thick. People were slowly adding clothes as they began to realize that this might be a cold one! Well in true DBC Masters fashion everyone HTFU’d big time. Jesse went through the introductions, and We/I had the chance to hear from the variety of people, from all aspects of cycling in attendance. Once the intro’s were over we started into the core of the 101 clinic. You can see from the pictures all had a good time. Drills involved and started with simple things like like taking off and putting on clothing, tips and techniques for doing this efficiently. Hey! How about riding your bike up and through the middle of a pack (Close Quarters!). Thank goodness for soft and thick grass! Try Sanding Wheels! Picking up water bottles, and the fine art of the Sumo Bike challenge. Not enough... How about how to deal with a Feed Zone, and running over water bottles! How to grab, and present a bottle in a feed zone. For some not as easy as it looks! None the less, Jesse and Tyler D. did a great job, and I think/I know everyone had a great time. Well in short order things were over, and it was time to move on to the 102 clinic. After a fast attempt to grab lunch it was off to our next meeting place. Thanks to Lee M. we had the opportunity to meet in a great location with a nice room. It was hard to go from freezing cold to toasty with fresh brewed coffee! Way Way Nice... As things got under way, the 102 clinic was about... The things that you do you do after you can pick up a water bottle or bump Cody T. off in the Sumo bike drill. The Advanced Clinic was... Tactics and Strategies... How to prepare for a Race... Proper training techniques... Food to Race by... What to do in various Race scenario’s. Lots of good info, and great to have it come from Jesse. He certainly has a lot of Race experience to draw from. None the less it was a busy day. We wrapped things up at 5:00, and we could have kept going. Always a great sign that there were lots of questions to ask... The class, when done, and over... I think had a lot of people walking away having learned something new, and also with some very helpful information to help you improve your Bike handling skills, and Bike Racing knowledge. We the Davis Bike Club want to take the time to say... THANK YOU to Jesse and Tyler... Thank you to all of you that came out on a cold day. Thank you for wanting to better your Bike Handling and Racing skills.
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Just Thank you for being a proud DBC member...
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Ciao..

Our Coach...

This is way to easy... Our next "Pro"

The class in full attention mode!

Tyler leading the group for some... Getting up close and personal!

Our own Mr. John H. ... I think we have a new Masters in the making!

Oh No! Husband/Wife Sumo! I think Mark is doing the dishes?

Carol yields to no one!

Will and Pat... Gettin Serious!

Shhhhh! Jesse talk'n Racin!

What can you say! He looks way to comfortable at this!

(Nice sandwich Will... Can I have a bite?)

2008-12-01T22:05:00.000-08:00

Hey Masters... What is this rumor I'm hearing of?

Another showdown... Return of the 35+ Cry Babies!

January 11th 2009

35+ Wanta be's against the 45+ Masters!

Seems like a shame to me.

I'll be there to up-hold the Law...

2008-11-21T11:44:00.000-08:00

Old Dudes,

Please circle December 21st on your calendars for the next team training ride.
This will more than likely be our final large group ride for 2008.
The plan is to do the Foxy's ~90 mile loop from Davis to Winters via Putah Creek then over cardiac into Mankas Corner through Wooden Valley and back along Pleasant Valley Rd.

We will depart from the Davis downtown Starbucks at 9:00 sharp. Pace will be moderate with the usual regroups at the top of climbs. We will stop for 10 minutes at Mankas Corner for refueling. Bring plenty of food and cash. Once we get to the Vacaville area on Pleasant Valley Rd we can ramp up the pace and have the two usual sprints heading back.

If rain becomes a factor, we'll make a call before we roll out via email.

(FYI- Fred is finalizing the details for the Second Annual Masters Showdown-More info to follow!)

See ya out there!
Rod
DBC Masters 35+ Capt.

Team Ride 11/02/08

2008-11-15T14:15:00.000-08:00

Hey DBC Masters...
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It's been a few weeks, but we just had to throw a BIG Thanks to all of you that came out for our Team ride on 11/02. We want to take the time to thank Will B. for putting this ride together, and we want to thank Rod F. for providing the great time at the Islands Burgers and Brew after the ride. You can see from the picture that everyone was in great spirits. We hope to have more of these get together's in the future.
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Thanks from your DBC Masters Race Team!
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(click on photo to enlarge)

DBC Race Team Report to the general club

2008-10-30T10:20:00.001-07:00

Robin Rolles did a powerpoint presentation to the general club on Tuesday that summarized our awesome year! He warmed up before diving into the main talk by showing a few slides of Paul Mach's Mt. Hamilton ride where he attacked before the KOM and went solo for about 50 miles! Truly an inspiring ride. The slide show is here. If you are using Internet Explorer please give it some time to load. It seems to load faster on Firefox, Chrome and Safari. Thanks!

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Chef Lorne

2008-10-20T14:23:00.000-07:00

Hello Masters,

Well I am almost recovered from from Foxy's this past weekend. I just wanted to take a moment to thank all of you who volunteered your time to help us make the post ride dinner another success. The dinner is a large undertaking and it could not have been pulled off so nicely without all of your efforts, that said, Thank You!!

Lorne
(aka: Chef d'Foxys)

5:30 AM crew chopping bread and garlic

9:00 AM crew kicking in!

Truffle assembly

Just before serving

Ahhh, finally!

Chef Lorne and some of the crew enjoying a quick break before cranking out some more pasta.

Foxy's Fall Century

2008-10-15T14:22:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all who have signed up to volunteer for the Foxy's Fall Century! Once again the DBC Masters, led by Chef Lorne, will be preparing, cooking and serving the post ride lunch/dinner. If you're interested in lending a hand please contact your local volunteer coordinator; we could always use more help! Thanks also to all the DBC racers contributing their time at registration, bike path clean up, corner marshals and rest stop crews.

Special thanks to Dale Tapley, Jim Pavlichek and DBCRT badass Paul Mach for kicking the event off by collectively driving the route(s) and putting up these signs as required by county use permits. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Desert PupFish Gone Wild!

2008-10-04T21:39:00.000-07:00

Hey Masters...

Had to throw an up-date on our 508 Team...You might ask what in the heck is the 508 Team.

Well... It would happen to be 4 of our DBC Masters that have decided to HTFU big time. Your mission should you decide to except it would to ride 508 miles in 2 days. What! What! What! Wait a minute I thought our DBC Masters had more sense than that. Well turns out that our own Lorne was able to talk three of our other DBC Masters to take a ride on the dark side. The un-suspecting victims... er I mean willingful riders. Janice the hard women of the group, and our own Joaquin who at the drop of a hat loves to deal out pain to all that will ride with him, and finally Jason, who just falls into the category of just a real nice guy that can't say no. Well... Turns out when they arrived at the start line they had all decided that rather than ride 508 miles in a weekend they would just go out and party. The picture shows that they of course in true DBC Masters fashion where just having way to much fun! We are wishing the Desert Pup Fish????

The very best when they finally decide to quit having fun and ride their bikes.

Ciao...

2008-09-18T23:00:00.000-07:00

Guys... Had to pull this post by Jas from our showing at Henleyville 2007. It has kind of gone full circle. As for most of us we end our Season this Saturday. Kinda funny when you see Jas's comment about us dominating the 2008 season... Who would have thought! How did it happen. Great guys, Team work, and HTFU Racing. I feel we were certainly the talk of the Peloton. Always the compliment from other Teams... Such as "Great Racing Davis"... "Davis off the front again", or you sure have a great group of guys. So as we close out the Season lets do it one more time. Lets show the Davis Bike Club what the DBC Masters are all about! Great Racing, Great Sportsmanship, and a Great Group of Guys!
(Below comments from Jas)
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As the 2007 year comes to an end, I reflect...lots of emotions.....and I think this photo encapsulates all that we are as the DBC Masters Race Team....FRED and THE TEAM taking the win at the Henleyville Road Race....look at all that orange and blue and the smile on my face! Same thing at Dunnigan Hills Road Race where we got Chris Bowlus to the top of the podium (but unfortunately no pics..). Looking forward to us DBC Masters dominating the field in 2008! Click on the photo above to get a higher magnification.

Wishing everybody a happy and healthy NEW YEAR!

Big Hugs to All, and may us all HTFU!!

jas

Folsom Cyclebration 2008

2008-09-16T11:45:00.000-07:00

(Picture from Saturdays Crit)

Brian H. "1ST" ... Justin H. 2nd

Overall... Brian H..... "1ST"

Justin H... 3rd

DBC Masters...

News update!... What can we do after a weekend like Labor Day! We can clean up at the 1st hopefully annual Folsom Cyclebration. Friday started with the Time Trial... Big Chris setting DBC Masters fast time of the day. Followed close by Big Brian. Saturday brings about the Crit, this is the same course used in the Sierra Nevada Crit run in June, just run in reverse... Pretty Cool. Lots of DBC Masters driving the pace... In the end "1St" Big Brian... Second JHall. Sunday

brought the final event the Folsom Circuit Race. Raced on closed roads... Way Cool Course! Again hard Racing by all the DBC Masters... Lots of comments from the pack... Like "Davis off the front again!" In the end we held out for a 6th place finish with the rest falling behind that.

Best of all... In the end we the DBC Masters won the Overall! Putting Big Brian in "1ST", and the ever charging JHall in 3rd. This weekend also brought about some sad notes too. This was the last weekend of Racing for a lot of our DBC Masters. Hard to believe that the Season is coming to a close. Thank you very much for the emails telling the Team and the Davis Bike Club, how much you have enjoyed your time, and your experiences with the DBC Masters. For those of you that ended your racing last week. Thank you for an awesome Season! Enjoy your time off, spend time with the family, have a great rest of the year and we will see you back in 2009.

We also want to say "Thank you" to Rod F. for hosting the post race Team get together at the "Islands Fine Burgers and Drinks" (Way great Food and service!) in our host town of Folsom. It was a get way to end a great weekend.

Ciao for now... Fred and your DBC Masters

DBC Masters Labor Day Weekend

2008-09-08T10:49:00.000-07:00

Hey Masters... Every now and then you have things go very right! As you can see from the recent RaceReports... We the DBC Masters had a great weekend. At Dunnigan... JHall taking 2nd in the 35+ 4/5's, and Chris winning the 45+ 4/5's, and well, what can you say about the MetroMint Giro. Pictures like this don't come along that often. It was a tough feeling to describe...

(Below is JHalls Race Report).

Metromint Giro di San Francisco Criterium Category 4/5 Masters 35+Justin Hall Finishing position: 1/75 (registered) Teammates: Jason Snovel, Fred Schnaars, Karl Wurzbach, Rod Fernandez, Darin Salk, Robin Rolles. Course description: 24 laps of a very rough 6 turn ¾ mile circuit mostly flat but with a 2 block short stinger on the back side of the course.

"Stick on my wheel, I will lead you out and if you can come around then do it", (or something to that effect) said Karl to Jason and I as we were warming up on the trainers. Karl, already having enough points to upgrade to cat3, was graciously offering to help Jason and I achieve the same goal. A short time later we roll to the line "only" having 6 DBC riders in this race, we don’t really listen to the pre-race instructions, and we are off. The pace is somewhat blistering right off the bat, which of course leads to a crash in the very first turn (typical). We hammer around, push up the hill, and generally regroup on the back section.

I had previously told Jason and Karl I would hang toward the back with the plan to work up toward the end, but in my very limited crit racing experience, I have never been comfortable doing this, mostly because I got caught out doing this at the Sierra Nevada Crit in Rancho – I prefer to be more toward the front. So to some extent I broke ranks from the plan and tried to ride in the top 15, much like on July 4. After a couple laps the preems start, a strong rider from Third Pillar jumps, I see Fred go after him, along with a couple other riders. They stay out for a couple laps with Fred even staying out longer solo. I was trying to disrupt a bit for Fred but quickly realized this was pointless so I resumed just sitting in. We brought back and passed a slowing Fred, he yells "race smart Justin", I figured he was pulling out of the race understandably tired from his great result at Dunnigan on top of the solo effort – more on this later.

With about 18 or so to go, the pace picked up again on another preem lap. I didn’t get this preem, nor did I even try for it, but I was toward the front on pace in the draft of those who did contest it. These guys sat up after start finish, but I just kind of kept going using my momentum through the left hander and the two right handers all of a sudden I had a gap! Glancing back, nobody seemed to care so I mashed up the stinger and went hard down the back straight and all of a sudden I was told I had 10 seconds. Hmmm…..this is new, what do I do now? HTFU baby, I drill it!!! I figure I can corner faster than the peleton, so I am really trying to be efficient carrying maximum speed at the apexes using all the course to carry speed then none of the course a to reduce distance traveled per lap. Its working. 15 seconds. 20 seconds. Okay, I am deep into the pain cave now. I "think" I got two solo preems but frankly I was too tired and focused to be sure of this till after the race (yes, confirmed, nice prizes), nor frankly did I care. The barometer of my growing fatigue is on the stinger, I was previously getting up this hill at a fairly high level of perceived exertion at around 500-600 watts. Now I am STRUGGLING up at the same level of perceived exertion putting out 250 watts – use the gears Shimano gave you damnit!!! 15 seconds. 10 seconds. I seem to remember the numbers going up earlier, this doesn’t seem right…..this isn’t going to stick. YOU IDIOT!!!! You came here for points and you came away with preems. Nice effort, and hardly following the "race smart Justin" guidance received earlier.

I rested a second before being absorbed, not really sure of what is next. I’m on a big emotional roller coaster here. Jason and Karl cruise by and I hear "Come on Justin, lets go". LOL, whatever……screw you guys….. did you happen to see how stupid I was for the last 6 or 7 laps? But somehow, the one sentence motivated me, I dug down, stood up, and caught on. At this point we only had 10 to go, and the boys had already started to move up. I wasn’t sure where I was going to find the strength to get back to the front and have anything left at the end, but it’s too long a drive and I got up too early to just quit, so lets go. I start moving up, stealing wheels, picking people off in corners, and using momentum on the back side finding lots of opportunities to pass around the outside of the last two corners. With about 4 to go, I am back up at the front with Karl and Jason, which is good timing because the pace is really pickingup.

Fast forward to the last lap, we have Karl, Jason, and I in really good position down the back straight, going fairly fast but still a bit of cat and mouse going on amongst the group. Out of the corner of my eye I pick up a move on the inside, I jump on it immediately and am STUNNDED to see that its Fred!!!! Part of me is trying to process this as I thought he pulled out, most of me doesn’t really care because I felt like that might be the winning move and I wanted to be a part of it. Fred and I round the last two corners leading on to the finishing straight 1-2, with me on his wheel. As I mentioned earlier, I learned a lot about the course on my solo effort and I really knew the line through those last two turns – as a result I think I was able to carry a bit more momentum through there because as we came on to the main straight I came along side Fred a bit earlier than I wanted to. My legs were absolutely on FIRE, but Fred and I continued our drag race and somehow I was able to get Fred by the slightest of margins at the line for the win!!! I don’t think either of us had our "a" sprint but it was a fair fight given we both burnt matches on our solo efforts……. it gets even better, as you can see in the attached photo (credit: Dave McAnaney) DBC swept 4 of the 5 podium spots with Karl p3 and Jason p5. I’d like to give a shout out in thanks to those who gave a shout out for me: While I had totally tuned out the race announcer, I think I heard every "come on Justin" from Janice, AJ, Jane, and a few people down the front straight who I have no idea who you were – but I heard you during the solo effort, so thank you. Jason, Fred, Karl, great help and motivation during the race. I love the swarm of DBC orange at the line…..

Thanks for reading, JHall

Dunnigan Again and Again

2008-09-02T08:27:00.000-07:00

The plan was carefully scripted by the M45+ 4/5 (Old and Slow) team - hammer the field with our numbers and get Fred to the line for our 3rd consecutive Dunnigan Hills win. Looking at the photo above you'd think everything went as planned.

With the winds coming strong from the North, it looked like this could be one time when the field at Dunnigan could be shattered. Lee and Nelson took on the first attacks about 5 miles into the race. A few others without any team mates made a few attacks but as usual nothing was sticking. John S and I were going to wait until we hit the second North Wind section about 15 miles into the race but we both got a bit itchy and tried a few attacks early on. Others must have been feeling the same. Somewhere in the first half of the race, Will and Fred took a flyer - this was definitely not in the playbook. They got a nice gap for a time but as usual everything was chased down.

As we turn right onto Hwy 4 for the second North wind section I launch a serious attack. I look back and see big Bob Miller from Synergy chasing it down. This is what we want big guy...burn those matches. I keep hammering until they close the gap. I take a short break and try again, this time with a Webcor guy with me. We take a few pulls but big Bob chases us down again. My legs are toast.

We're just a few miles from Hwy 99 and the tailwind that will take us home. I'm drifting toward the back focusing on Fred's wheel and trying to not get gapped. "Just recover enough so you can help at the end," I think. I can barely see the front of the peleton but it looks like a group is off (with Dan?) and big Bob chasing again. We're really moving with Dan pushing the pace up front. Gaps are forming with Tom, Will, Fred and I at the back moving up methodically - Tom giving me some shelter at a critical point.

With 4 miles we're approaching the front of the peleton when Lee launches.

John S. asks "Where's Fred?"

"On my wheel!"

At the silo 3 miles from the finish Lee is caught and John S. attacks with 2 others (Webcor?). As John is attacking we get our train lined up with me at the front. I look over my left shoulder and see a blue and yellow jersey on my wheel but then ORANGE AND BLUE AS FAR AS THE EYE CAN SEE! Suddenly my legs feel strong and I'm thinking I can keep this tempo and bring these guys to the final right turn and they can deliver FRED FOR THE WIN! A guy comes on my right but there's no way he's coming around. We catch John and his break (oops! did I just chase down my own guy?).

I take a quick look back to make sure we're still lined up and......what? I've gapped the blue and yellow jersey. At first I think "Crap! our train is busted! Do I slow to re-group? Nah, make the non-DBC bastards chase you."

2-mile marker. Look back and the gap has grown. Speedo says 31..30..push..31 (love this tailwind!).

1-mile marker. Look back and the gap is holding. Just make it to the turn and hope you can get over the overpass.

You know they're coming...keep those cranks moving up the overpass. Now, once more down to the finish. One final look back, to see the pack closing fast. "Gooooo!" is all I hear and I know it's gotta be Fred.

I cross the finish line first without having to sprint - couldn't have anyway - and turn to see a flood of Blue and Orange crossing the line. AWESOME! And no one's more excited about my win than Fred.

So compare this picture of some FAB to the one at the top and guess who won.

Need home for 3 cats...

2008-09-01T18:32:00.000-07:00

Home needed for 3 cats. Looks like Justin Hall and Jason Snovel will be authorized to adopt them in the next week or two......just a few more points. Lets wish our boys luck at Benicia, Folsom, Chico !

Dunnigan pre-ride

2008-08-27T22:33:00.000-07:00

So last Sunday a bunch of us decided to pre-ride the Dunnigan Hills RR course. Our good friends from Rio Strada racing were there at the same time and we had a nice scrimmage while reconning the course.

One Proud Cog on the Cassette

2008-08-19T11:09:00.000-07:00

Photo courtesy of... Hors Categorie Photograpy

Hey Masters...Just a fast up-date from the Weekend... How’d we do again? Well...From the reports that I have been getting... We the Davis Bike Club had an awesome weekend. In the 35+ 4/5's ... Jason did a great job reporting on the success of the DBC Masters.

One thing that did strike me a little funny was a question posed by a fellow Teammate regarding whether he had contributed to the Team doing as well as we did. Hmmmm So I thought to myself... What does contributing to the Team involve, and are you a integral part of what causes a Team to succeed?

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How does that ball start rolling? Well I think it starts with something as simple as... Someone naming you as the "A" Racer for the event! After all you have to have someone to work for... Right? Then after you’ve named that person then comes the... WHAT!... WHO?...ME! OH CRAP! After the initial shock of being named the "A"rider for a Race... Comes what we call as the "Emails of Support". They slowly start to trickle in... Coming in the form of "Hey Dude" your Da Man!... "Hey Dude" I got your back! Hey Dude if you win will you buy me a cold one? "Hey" what can "I" do to help? You see the emphasis on the word I... Because if there is one thing that makes the DBC Masters special is the fact that anyone of you would do whatever it took to help a fellow Teammate win! All that pressure, and it has only just begun. You might ask do want to put that type of pressure on the "A" racer? Maybe... Kinda... Sorta. It starts that thing in sports called Focusing. Its starts to get him thinking... Can I do this? It starts to get him to believe that they might be able to actually win. Prior to the Race it’s things like the Club rides, and all that chit chat stuff, you know more verbal support. The "Hey Dude... Let me lead you out! Dude sit in I’ll take you to the front. The scheming, the planing. It's the Team doing something as simple as going to Jamba Juice after a Race Ride. So even prior to an event the Team has already started to contribute to this Rider winning the Race. The "HEY" we believe in "YOU'...

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At the Race we could all sense the anxiety that was building with our "A" rider as the start time was beginning to approach. We would continue with the moral support the you can do it! Breath! Everything to try, and keep him relaxed. Seeing things like Jas returning to Racing to help where he could, Big Chad who our "A" racer respects, putting his arm around him, offering him words of encouragement. All these scenes, and action's all contribute to helping a Teammate win a Race.

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During the Winters Road Race from the start we had from the first Km's, numerous guys in the Orange and Blue that were launching off the front, taking big pulls, and doing what they could to soften the field. As Jason had said in his Race report, we had fellow Racers from other Teams come up, and say "You guys totally dominated the Race from the start to the finish"... So I could go on about the successes of each individual, and what each person did to help win this Race, but each one in there own way would rather just keep it quiet, and leave it at the fact that they just did what they had to do to get the results that we got... That’s just how we roll.

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So back to this one rider that had asked me about "HIS" effectiveness in determining the outcome of the Race... I simply said... Bike Racing is a little like a boxing match, in that you can only take so many blows to the kidneys before it really starts to hurt. So for each and every DBC Masters that threw a punch! You would ask yourself, did you as a Teammate effect the out come of the Race?... Well, ask the 43 other riders that didn’t make the final Seven! Look at the picture above, and you tell me... Ask Jason what he thinks! I’ll go out on the limb, and I bet he would say... "It was the Team"

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Ciao for now... One Proud Cog on the Cassette!

Old guys crashing

2008-08-14T21:21:00.000-07:00

who are these old guys and why do they keep crashing ?
shouldn't they be out playing golf or something ?

2008-08-11T22:26:00.000-07:00

Hey Eric... One on the Hood... One in the Drops... What'za gonn'a do?

Well Masters... August 11th, and it’s been a while since we have had a post of any interest on the Masters Blog. We again wish Karl and the family the very best with the addition of the new DBC Jr... William... Wait a minute I’m a William... Well he’s gonn’a be fast!
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What has happened in the last few weeks... Well, we have been doing Ok! What have we been doing? Well... Let’s start with the Berkeley/Albany Crit in the Masters 35+ 4/5's... Karl W. in 4th, and the ragin Jason S. in 5th... 50 meters and he said he would of had third. Sounds like my excuses in my sprints with our adopted Masters, Cody T... Taps! 10 meters Taps, and I would of had you little punk! Keeps kick’n my a$$. His desire to win is AWESOME! How about our chargin Pfieff, gettin stronger with every Race! 9th in Albany. No hay bails in this one. On to the Masters District Championships... In the Road Races... As usual "Yawn" Mike Pugh 8th in the 40-44... In the 50-54 (Largest field of the day) My field, and me amigo’s John S. field. The ever amazin Roland Freund... Tough, Tough field, and Roland held on for a 4th. Would have had 3rd, but got pimped on the line by the poacher Mark Caldwell. Now the next day brings the Crits. My shoulder said I should sit this one out, but the setting for this one is awesome! How’d we do? In the Masters 45-49, our Carlos C. Held on for what we know is a tough field, for an 11th... Very nice Carlos. Wow you say! Hey Fred, we seem to be doing great! What could be next? How about the Districts! Down at Ft. Ord. How’d we do? Well our very own Brain K. placed 8th in the 4's field. Brian spends a lot of time in these fields, He seems to like the competition that the younger guys seem to be able to produce. Man! I’m getting exhausted with all this Racing. I’m still giddy at what the DBC Masters are able to do. Is there more? MORE! you bet, we still have the Espardo TT, and the Patterson Road Race. In the TT we had the motor Brian H. Pulling off a 9th in the 35+4/5's... In the 5's our very own Joaquin F. lay’n down a bad a$$ 5th.. In the women's 4's Marianne H. also with a awesome 5th! In the brutal 45+ ... The "Terminator" Jeff N. pulling down an 8th!... Wow!...Hey! How about Patterson! This is a brutal one! In the Men's 4's... What can you say! Big Brian K. racing with the kids... 9th! Oh Wow you say! How about Marianne H. in the women's 4's... 2nd! Way to go Marianne! I have to throw this in for our near
Masters!...Mike M. in the men's 4's an awesome 2nd! Mike raced his heart out in this one! So much so, he went to the ER that night! Mike we wish you the best, and I hear your on your way to a great recovery! You earned some major HTFU points on this one!.. Fred didn't you Race this one? Yep! But they only show placings for the top 7... So Hmmm! Oh Yeah! I was 8th... Yeah! That's the ticket! :) ... On to Carrera San Rafael... Mens 4's... On the line Karl W. 3rd... Jason S. 12th. In the brutal Mens 35+ 1/2/3's Stephan J. with a 18th... In the Women's 3/4's our very own HTFU girl... Pheiff... Hay bail... 1... Pheiff...0... So to date what has all this produced... Well as of the latest result we are 2nd in points for the Davis Bike Club... In the Masters 35+ 4/5's we sit in third... Just out of 2nd, but with 3rd and 4th breathing down our backs.... Masters! The season is about over and I feel we can pull ourselves into 2nd... Some hard HTFU racing, and more results like we have had, and things should look pretty good for us.
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I know this is a fast overview of what we have done so far. But it is something that all of us can be very proud of! DBC and the DBC Masters on the road to a great season.
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Ciao...

It's a BOY!!

2008-07-29T21:09:00.000-07:00

Congratulations and best wishes to Karl and Rachel Wurzbach on the birth of their newest addition to the family! It's a BOY!

William Joseph Wurzbach arrived Saturday July 26, 2008 at 2:16pm... weighing in at lean and mean 6 lbs 14 oz, full of muscles (from Dad) and the good looks of his mom... Rachel had a short labor with no complications and all are home recovering and excited.

Wishing Karl and Rachel many years of happiness with the new addition to the family!

So, will young William learn to walk or ride a bike first?! :-}

Best wishes from the DBC Masters Race Team

New bars on the market....

2008-07-25T21:58:00.000-07:00

This is a brand new bar on the market, Davis Wheelworks is stocking them. You have to try them, they are fantastic. It's moist, chewy, not chalky, easy on the stomach, and very easy to eat on the bike... I find myself reaching for one even when I am not on the bike if I want a healthy snack. For those with food sensitivites, allergies, or intolerances : Bonk Breaker bars are dairy, wheat, and gluten free.
Two flavors :
Peanut Butter and Jelly
Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip

DBC Masters Skillz Clinic

2008-07-22T05:03:00.000-07:00

Hey Masters...

In a continuing effort to better our bike handling skills,
we will be having another clinic. Now I realize that most
of the skills in this video will be very hard for us to accomplish.
Our goal is hopefully some of the Juniors will see this!
This should in short order deplete the number of Juniors
we have to Race against! Sorry Mom and Dad's, but sometimes
we just have to do what it takes to beat them...
Pretty Cool Video...

Ciao...

P.S. Remember always wear your Helmet and appropriate
equipment when riding your bike.
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The DBC Masters always promote safe bicycle riding...
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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HWOVRHVZFjk

A New "Pain Cave" Revealed...

2008-07-10T19:19:00.000-07:00

It's been a few months now since the surgery on my clavicle...I've been feeling good, my clavicle doing well (besides that freakin plate o' titanium that is ohh so present ALL the time!), and I was building back my modest base....doing those long rides to see ya'll race, putting in some intervals on other rides to keep myself in check....all is good right...?! :-}

Well, back up 3 weeks or so....the air was freakin smokey...took the week off, save two days...still feeling ok. Then the 4th of July Crit came to a head...week before the event...nada in terms of riding...too much to do...after the 4th my goal was to be on the bike each day, if nothing more than just get out and keep the legs feelin like they knew how to spin a' crank! Didn't happen....hasn't happened...won't happen soon.....Academic/Job pursuits (pressures) have come full circle now, and the NIH is waiting on my grant proposal due next weds....A NEW PAIN CAVE REVEALED...hey, ya...that should be the title of my new grant!....that 'cave' I refer to is actually the 'active site' ('cave') of the enzyme/protein I try to understand, which I believe contributes to heart attacks...and I'm trying to make therapeutics against this lil cave....see below the 'CAVE'! Ok, back to cycling....shite! cycling....Double shite! What to do now?

The Spring Hill Road Race was the venue I had targeted nearly two months ago to make my debut back onto the racing scene! Sunday, 13 July...a perfect day to get back into the fun. I can do that, I thought... two months ago! But, given the past 3 weeks of shite life, my psyche is not in the game, nor is my mojo, so...what to do?!

Well, the voice of reason has finally kicked in....and the verdict is...DUHHHHH....I'm not gonna be grittin my teeth in the Spring Hill RR this time around......I'm not in shape, my mind is too occupied with work, and I would be a danger to myself and others if I were to race....If I'm in a good position with my grant proposal, I'll come over to watch and feed ya'll...but I'll decide that in the wee hours come Sunday morn...So...I've got a spot in the Masters 35+ 4/5 race...if you want it, let me know...

from deep inside the 'Cave'... jas

The 4th of July Weekend!

2008-07-08T17:04:00.000-07:00

Alright Masters... Time for the recap of what was an awesome weekend for the DBC Masters! Day One was the 4th... "The 4th", the legendary Davis 4th of July crit. Number 32... 32 years of putting on one of the best crits in Northern California. Could you imagine digging up photos from 32 years ago! What a treat that would be. 32 years of Racing the legendary streets of Davis... A Race that would have to be as much of a "Classic" as Nevada City...

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We as Masters came as the Team that would be the one to beat. We were on a mission to defend our streets! So with that the alarm for me goes off at 5:00am... What you say! I wasn't even Racing! Yeah, but my Team was! Up first was the Cat 5's... Cat 5's fielded by a group that had something to prove... Fielded by a group that had an "A" racer in the line up. When you put an "A" racer in the group, and the "A" racer wins... What can you say... The "Team" stepped up, and stepped up in a big way. At the line... Justin Hall... He wanted to win, and finishing second if you know Justin, well that's not in his vocabulary. Also if you asked Justin about his win... he would simply say! Hey... It was because of the Team!
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Up next 35+ 4's... On the line a power house of DBC Masters... Driven by the likes of Brian, Lee,Steve, Marc, Jason, Nelson, Chris, Karl, and John. We had our hands full because by this time in the season, we have become the Team to watch! DBC Masters had control through out most of the race. On the finishing line... Karl... 3rd! Podium for the DBC Masters again! You can't say enough about the guys in both the 5's field, and the 35+ 4's field... I mean about the guys that didn't podium. If you saw these guys in the closing laps, they were the guys putting it all on the line!

We have to mention that we send our best wishes to Nelson who crashed out in his Race. We wish Nelson a speedy recovery, and we look forward to seeing you back out on the road soon.

Up next... Leesville! What can you say about Leesville... It is what it is... the Road Race from Hell. To all the Masters that lined up to race this Race... Again you HTFU'd big time. Justin again held on for a 6th place finish, Bob B. finishing in the top ten, at 9th. Tom C. also finished an awesome 4th in his group!, and the climbing machine Will, fresh off of an awesome 2nd in the GC at the Elkhorn Classic also finished 4th in his group. DBC Masters pony'd up again. Thank you for showing the DBC colors.
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Finally we have Vacaville... Now for those not keeping count, that's 3 days of Racing, and yes we had some guys Racing all 3 days... I'm friggin drooling! If you were to have an HFTU week...
Hey this would be it. Again it was up early, made my coffee, re-adjusted my shoulder sling, looked at my bike as a walked out the door, and off to Vacaville I went. Time to play cheerleader again. Did I say this shoulder thing sucks! I had gotten there with enough time to talk to the guys about what was on hand, and as usally... The plan was lay waste to the competition. Off the line and up the hill up front was Justin, fresh off of the Leesville sufferfest. Next time around Justin was still up front drilling the pack! No rest for the weary today. As the race progressed the front was dominated by the DBC Masters. Leading the group lap after lap, setting a destructive pace was Chris B. (Mr Big). Trading off and then sharing the pounding with none other than Mr. John S. I spent most of the race at the top of the hill, and each time the group came by we seemed to have things in check. With a couple of laps to go I raced down to the start finish line to cheer on the Team, and as the pack rolled by on the bell lap, who was leading the charge! The team of, of course... Chris B and John S. They were just drilling the pack leading our sprinter to the front. As the group came charging out of the last corner my eyes strained to see who was up front, and low and behold it was none other then the Orange and Blue train. Leading the charge was Karl W. being closely followed by our new Team member Brian H. At 100 meters to go I thought to myself that this tandem would be unbeatable. Sprints kinda go that way, sometimes you get'm, sometimes you don't. We held on for 2nd thanks to Karl's lead out for Brian. Nice way to make an entrance onto your new Team! I also have to give a shout out to Darin S. who for him this was his 4th crit, 2 and 3 being done on Friday. Darin held tough to finish 17th in the field, but better than that he finished first of the 5's! Way to go Darin.
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None the less, the demonstration of Teamwork this weekend was one that would make anyone that was a DBC member very proud!
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So for the DBC Masters 4/5's... How did the weekend pan out... Well, just a few top 10's
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Justin H... "1st"

Karl W... 3rd

Karl W... 4th
Justin H... 6th
Bob B.... 9th
Will B... 4th
Brain K... 9th
Tom C... 4th
Brian H... 2nd
Karl W... 6th
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Thanks Masters for an awesome weekend. We love all that you do for the Team!
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Ciao...

Vacaville Crit: accidental attacks and staples

2008-07-06T22:58:00.000-07:00

After lining up with Stefan, Robin, Jeff, and Anthony at the start of the Master's 1/2/3 Vacaville Criterium, I decided I was not going to get shoved to the back of the pack on the very first lap, so I blew off the line and hit the first corner as hard as I could. I also pushed the pace through a complicated, 110-degree sweeper and another quick left. I looked behind me expecting to see the field slicing along in my draft--and they were nowhere in sight. A Team CS rider bridged, and we stayed off the front accidentally for two 1-mile laps.

I blew pretty spectacularly and got caught mid-way through lap three, so I integrated and managed to recover enough to survive the next three or four laps. I experimented with gearing on the hill--I can't really climb at all--and found that spinning up in my 39 at 120 rpm allowed me to advance my position if I started the climb in the draft. I was also able to stay away from the rear end of the group and keep the leaders of the pack in sight, which was an improvement over my pack ineptitude on the Fourth.

With three laps to go, I managed to advance to around 20th with Stefan and Jeff close behind. A break of five was up the road, which we had no chance of catching, but I was optimistic about contesting the field sprint and maybe stealing into the top ten. But with two to go, my rear wheel started wobbling all over the place, and a rider behind me shouted that I was flat, so I raised my hand, pulled off, and walked back in time to watch the break sprint for home.

Jas. and Robin R. offered condolences and pulled a huge staple out of my tire. I endured yet another poor result--but I learned that I can finish a hilly crit with this kind of field, so that was a positive improvement. Most importantly, I suffered no back pain-- and my daughter loved riding in the kids race.

4th of July Weekend

2008-07-03T20:37:00.000-07:00

Hey Masters...

Tomorrow is the 4th... Myself and all the members of the

Davis Bike Club

wish all of you the best tomorrow, and the next couple of days.

Line up on the line and show the members of the

Davis Bike Club what we

are all about. Give them something to scream about...

"GO DAVIS"

Ciao...

E.O'B's Back

2008-06-23T16:17:00.000-07:00

I tell my students every quarter that irony occurs when an utterance's intended message differs from its literal meaning. Sarcasm is an extreme version of this phenomenon; when you say to someone, "Nice hat," you might mean that you admire their headgear or that the thing on their head makes them look like an idiot.

When I say "E.O'B's Back," I could mean that I've returned from my exile or that I intend to expound on my recent spinal and disc problems.

Actually, I mean both. So it's a pun.

To fill in any new readers, my lower back's an f-upped mess: two herniated discs, yada yada yada. After recommendations from Judd, Chad, and Steve Wick, I crawled into Dr. Ray Spore's chiropractic office last month and have been making steady progress ever since. Last week I managed to contend all three sprints on a race ride, complete the Cantelow loop, and do 90 minutes on my TT bike--all without serious pain. So I'm going to try to race again in the Davis / Vacaville Crits. I'll run both the Elite 3 and Master's 1/2/3 categories as a shock to my system. My hope is to be the first guy in the lead-out train; I'll do my best to stay in the top twenty and then move to the front with 2-3 to go and help pull our sprinter along and keep him out of trouble.

In order to integrate myself back into the team, I'm going to publicize my workouts for the next two weeks, so join me if you can:
Tuesday: race ride, with attacks on the first and third sprint. It'd be cool if someone would go with me and help rotate off the front before the catch;
Wednesday: 90 minutes with 2*15 minute ME/FE intervals. Meet at 5:30 at Russell and Sycamore
Thursday: 90 minutes with 2*5 minutes of 30/30 intervals and 4*15 second high-cadence sprints. 5:30 at Russell and Sycamore.
Saturday: Wheelworks ride
Sunday: longish recovery / easy ride--I share Alan's insistence on an easy pace.

I'm looking forward to seeing old friends and putting faces with some of the new names.

DBC Goes Big Time!

2008-06-10T22:09:00.000-07:00

Hey Masters, and the all DBC members... Quite a compliment from Roman! (See his article below).
Tonight on the Race Ride dealing with a shattered field, because of the winds (go figure). Myself and Chris B. had the chance to ride with a Junior, who at every opportunity would be throwing down at every chance he had. It was fun to see this individual riding with such confidence, and ability. Roman's right... The DBC program, and the the Juniors that they are producing is something that we all can be very proud of... Thanks Steve, and all that help make the Juniors,
and the DBC program what it is!
.
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(From Roman's Blog)
The last couple of weeks have been really positive for me. After spending most of the spring on the road it was nice to get a couple of weeks at home to do some solid training, spend time with friends and do some local races which went really well.In the last two weeks I won two time trials, Dunlap and Sattley. Both were great mostly because I got to catch up with people and race without any stress; although flatting my tubular and having to find then glue a new one 30 minutes before Dunlap was exciting (thank you Bev for lending me a tire). For Sattley I had the pleasure of spending the weekend with my friend Joe Fineman who kindly gave me a ride and helped me with a place to stay. (honestly I need a lot of help).
One thing I want to mention after this last week is how impressed I am with the latest crop of riders coming out of DBC, and the clubs success over time. Sean, Paul, Tyler, Jesse and many more have all used DBC to develop and step up to the national scene; this does not even include the "Juniors", that I know will be ripping legs in the pros in 2-3 years. I often talk to people about why among all other clubs out there DBC has been so good for so long. I think it comes down to community, respect, and hard work. There are so many people in the club and the town of Davis that are good role models for young riders who inspire them to by making them part of that community. These people are not pro racers; they are people who love riding, who want to share their wisdom while riding their bikes with new people. I mean, when I was a freshman in college, I was inspired to be the promoter of the Dunlap TT as a member of the club. Furthermore, the members of the club work hard to raise money and not through sponsorships, but by putting on excellent events that brings in cyclist from all over the country. Funding the team in this way makes the funding stream much more consistent from year to year and allows the club to stay focused on developing its own talent. I am very happy to see the virtuous cycle continuing and am proud to have once been a member.

Thanks Roman, we and the Davis Bike Club (DBC) wish you the very best!

DBC Masters Great Weekend!

2008-06-05T00:11:00.000-07:00

Hey DBC Masters...

The weekend is over, and first of all we would like to take the time and thank Brian K. and Rod F. and all of those that took time to make the Dunlap Time Trial a huge success! Comments from those that attended, said that it was an awesome event.
.
Then we would like to take some time and say congrats to Chris (Big) B. and Bob B. for their 1st places in their category's. Both did DBC and the Masters proud.

http://breakawayphotography.smugmug.com/gallery/5089901_sy9Jp#306740267_VDyJB
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Finally a big thanks to Bob B. for his 1586 miles that he logged in the Mayisbikemonth.
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Ciao to all... Your DBC Masters

TO ALL OF YOU... THANK YOU

2008-06-04T07:03:00.000-07:00

HEY DAVIS BIKE CLUB... WE DID IT!

THANK YOU TO ALL OF YOU THAT WORKED

TO MAKE THIS A SUCCESSFUL MONTH.

WE HOPE THAT YOU ENJOYED THE CHALLENGE

TO SHOW EVERYONE THAT WE ARE #1.

57567 TOTAL MILES

107% OF MILES PLEDGED.

AWESOME...

http://www.bikecommutemonth.com/challenges_club_users.asp?club_id=251.

CIAO...

You look Mahvelous!

2008-06-03T21:00:00.000-07:00

Pic from: http://www.flickr.com/photos/atn420/2463559916/in/set-72157604872198521/

Who's Who in Cycling

2008-05-28T21:34:00.001-07:00

Hey Masters... So on a side note!

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It's funny how when you read or do something how certain things or people might come to mind. There I was kinda casually looking over the up and coming races on the NCNCA web site, when I noticed on June 7th we had something called Ross' Epic Hill Climb! Now though I'm not a climber, I had always thought this might be a fun one to try. Maybe kind of... Might, might not! Maybe sort of. We'll see... Probably not! Maybe... Then as I read the course description I had a flash back of a Race Report that I had just read. Within his great report I remember reading something that has stuck in my mind, and now ranks right up there with one of my most inspirational sayings!

Quote: "I moved to the front and brought the pace up several miles an hour... another rider interpreted this as an attack and exploded up to and around me. Albeit so early in the race I was game for a little action, so I matched his effort and away we went."

"I was game for a little action" Wow! I have a new hero.

This guy writes Race Reports has access to the Masters mailer, rides with us, sends us emails about rides that he's doing... Usally going up! All in all a real great guy... But sadly he is only 31. What a shame, kinda sorta. So when I read the course decription of Ross...

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Quote: "There is no hill as steep as Ross'. And so when you reach the top of Pine Flat, by comparison, your struggles do not compare. Ross' Epic is a gesture, inadequate at best, of humility towards the challenges that lie ahead. And not just the challenges that Ross Dillon will face, but those we all face... In less than two weeks we can stop worrying about them, and throw down."

Who comes too mind! This guy rides a 22+lb bike, and climbs like the animal pictured above. So is he going to do this Race? Don't know, don't care. If he does great, if he doesn't great. It is just an observation on how we put things or events to people or a person.

Just felt like doing something... Yup!

Ciao

Sandbaggers

2008-05-21T21:47:00.000-07:00

This is from my buddy Greg's blog ( Service Course ) With all the new riders I thought I would post up some cyclist definitions and how to read between the lines ....

Cyclists are the biggest bunch of sandbaggers and secret trainers around. They will say anything to soften you up for the kill. Don't let this happen to you !
Study this handy rider's phrasebook to find out what they really mean when they say :

'I'm out of shape'
Translation - I ride 400 miles a week and haven't missed a day since the Ford administration. I replace my 11 tooth cog more often than you wash your shorts. My body fat percentage is lower than your mortgage rate.

'I'm not into competition'
Translation - I will attack you until you collapse in the gutter, babbling and whimpering. I will win the sprint, even if I have to force you into oncoming traffic. I will crest this hill first, even if I have to grab your seat post and spray energy drink into your eyes.

'I'm on my beater bike'
Translation - I had this baby custom made in Tuscany using Titanium blessed by the Pope. I took it to a wind tunnel and it disappeared. It weighs less than a fart and costs more than a divorce.

'It's not that hilly"
Translation - This climb lasts longer than a presidential campaign. Be careful on the steep section sections or you'll fall over ( backwards ) . You have a 39X23 low gear ? Here's the name of my knee surgeon.

'You're doing great, honey. '
Translation - Yo, lard ass ! I'd like to get home before midnite. This is what you get for spending the winter decorating and eating chocolate. I shouda married that cute cat 1 racer when I had the chance.

'This is a no drop ride. "
Translation - I'll need an article of your clothing for the search and rescue dogs.

'It's not that far. '
Translation - Bring your passport.

My back-story

2008-05-19T22:35:00.000-07:00

From Radiological Associates of Sacramento:

Patient: Eric O'Brien
Examination: OPEN MRI LUMBAR W/O
Findings: L 1-2, L 2-3, L 3-4: Unremarkable
L 4-5: There is a disc bulge. The central canal and neural foramina appear adequate.
L5-S1: There is disc dessication and small posterior central protrusion. The thecal sac is effaced.
Impression: Disc dessication and small posterior central disc protrusion at l5-S1. The thecal sac is effaced anteriorly.

Well, shoot. That's essentially the same damn thing they said ten years ago.

Many of you don't know that I spent a large portion of my twenties in a theatre company. I had day jobs at an ad. agency and a newspaper, but a big chunk of my time was spent doing PR and direction work at a non-profit, experimental theatre company. I smoked a lot and drank a fair bit--habits I chalked up to working the equivalent of two full-time jobs.

After I got married and realized that I was never going to make it in the arts, my wife and I quit smoking and I went back to school. The only way for me to get over a heavy nicotine addiction was by trading it for another one, so I joined a gym and went crazy with weightlifting and basketball. Hoop has never been my sport, but I hustled around and made an ass of myself.

One evening at the YMCA I was playing in a recreational league game when I went up for a rebound, had my legs swept by a cutting guard, and landed parallel to the floor on my hip. I was gimpy for two or three days, but I didn't think much of it until I tried doing some weight work later that week. My lower back pretty much exploded, and I developed bursitis in both hips and bulging discs above the sacrum. After three bouts of physical therapy, a number of steroidal injections, enough Celebrex to dope an army, and tentative discussions about surgery, I crawled into a chiropractor's office and spent 4-5 months getting back on my feet.

That was 9-10 years ago. I started biking when running proved too much for my back, and after we moved to Davis in 2003, I started logging pretty serious miles. I always had to stop to stretch after 60 miles during my first year or two of recreational riding, but when I started racing for UC-Davis, Judd Van Sickle took a long look at my bike fit and dialed it in so perfectly that I could complete hilly centuries without too much pain. Using Judd's core and flexibility routines, I've been able to race without much pain for the last 3 years. I would have occasional aches and twinges, but I never suffered anything severe enough to warrant medical attention.

Then, right before Christmas, my hubris got the better of me. I grew tired of failing to produce adequate power in time trials, so I started screwing around with my cleat position. Moving the pedal spindle backwards gave me a bit more power, but it also necessitated dropping my saddle to prevent my hamstrings from snapping at the bottom of my stroke. That's when the wheels started to fall off; a chain reaction led me here, to a three a half-week forced vacation from my bike and my computer that's nearly driven me insane.

Dropping the seat height sent my back into reactor meltdown. After a Steele Canyon ride, I got home and tried to straighten my torso after getting off the bike, but instead I collapsed in a heap on the sidewalk. I could hardly raise my upper body past 45 degrees. Four ineffective days of rest and ibuprofen led me into the UC-Davis Student Health Center, where the doctor ordered an MRI, P.T., and a consultation with the orthopedic surgeon. The results of that test are listed at the top of this entry. The Ortho. told me that if he were to examine 100 backs, 50 of them would reveal the same damage that mine displayed, but my high activity level increased the chances of developing symptoms. I'm not a strong candidate for surgery, thank God, so he advised rest, Pilates, etc, etc.

A scheduled trip to visit family in the Midwest for Christmas forced me off the bike for a bit; the rest and recovery put things back in order and I was able to roll into Aggie training camp in decent shape.

When I returned to riding, I felt pretty good in my back, but then the another fateful Steele Canyon ride bit me in the butt again last month. As I labored up the last climb up toward the dead-end before the turn-around, I heard a loud CRACK and suddenly felt myself hovering just above the rear tire. The seat-clamp bolt had snapped under my sizable posterior, throwing my saddle onto the road behind me and nearly crushing my prostate. I suffered the indignity of riding back to Muscovite Corner on a bare seat post; climbing every hill out of Steele Canyon while standing up ain't much fun--but I finally learned to descend sitting on the top tube.

Alan Rowland graciously gave me a replacement carbon seat post, but I really, really screwed myself by forgetting to apply carbon prep to help it grip in my bike's carbon seat tube. I'm so paranoid about over-tightening the seat post camp (and too poor to buy a torque wrench) that after I installed the post and dialed in the fit, I rode 50 miles as it slowly sank 2 centimeters into the seat tube. After I got home and tried to stand up, I realized my error--but only after I fell to the sidewalk in a heap. Again.

So I took 5 days off the bike and iced, rested, and prayed. All this led me straight into the UC- Berkeley Criterium, where I got popped off the back because I couldn't apply power without killing my back. I rested another week before conference championships, where I quit the road race in agony after 35 miles. I was able to help the Men's B team win our Team Time Trial, but the strain of 20 minutes at ANT2 in the aero position forced me into spasms and convulsions for the rest of the weekend. I tried to race the crit the next day and got dropped again. Shameful.

So now I've been laid up for the last two weeks. I managed a 75-minute easy spin with Jas. last weekend, but by the following morning I was wrecked again. I got some more P.T. and excellent treatment from Ray Spore D.C., who's worked miracles in the last four days. But I'm about to start slowly losing my mind--for three weeks I've been unable to ride, pick up my children, or sit to write or read, basically all of the things that make my life livable. All of this bitching is absurd in the face of Nils Johnson's broken femur and Jason, Chad, and Kelley's collarbones, but I wanted to write a post and let the team know that I'm not giving up on the season or any of your racing goals.

I feel like I've turned a corner after getting some good work done with Dr. Spore, and I hope to resume easy spinning by this weekend, but for now, let me offer an object lesson: while we can't always control the safety of the other riders in the group, we can take care of our aging bodies and make SOME injuries preventable. Yoga, Pilates, and core work will save our legs and backs from repetitive stress injuries, and some light strength work might make crashes a little less damaging. Take it from me: I crashed four times last year, but I've finally been undone by my inept bike repairs and haphazard core maintenance.

OUR FUTURE... THINK ABOUT IT!

2008-05-19T18:57:00.000-07:00

So it kinda started out with... Why bother! I've certainly

got a lot of better things to do with my time... Right!

Yeah, I like to ride my bike...

Yeah, I like the fact that there is a section of road that I can

actually call my own. Yeah, I pay my taxes... Yeah, I want some respect!

Yeah, I'm not going to do anything about it... Or am I... I voted...

It didn't matter... or did it? We sometimes carry a lot of expectations

about what it is that we want... Right?

We hate cars that think they own the road... We again think it would

be nice if we were thought of... Mayisbikemonth.com

is a way that we have a chance to tell those who make the calls,

and to hear, and SEE what it is that is important to us... Right!

"NO I DIDN'T LOG MY MILES"... "YES I DID"! I DID... I DID.

I just figured that "THEY" knew what it was what I wanted... RIGHT?

In fact I don't bother to vote... BECAUSE? I had a friend that told

me that this... Mayisbikemonth.com was important to him. I have

seen him out there logging his miles... Suffering you know!

(I can't believe how many extra miles I'm doing!)

Mile after mile... It was something that he felt needed to be done...

Something that he felt that he was willing to give up his month

in May, just to say... Hey "I care about the future". Logging in,

and "JUST PUTTING DOWN YOUR MILES'... Seems like an

easy thing to do... Right? We have about 85 registered

riders that seems to think this is important... 85 ????????

Sitting in front of your computer, and reading your e-mails,

reading this post, tells me that you have time to... Tell the people

you can make a difference, that "YOU" care about our future, and

the sport/recreation that it is that you love.

Please take some time, and log your miles...

It really does count, and when it's done and over, you can

at least say... I did my part! Right?.

Thanks for reading my rant... Ciao

PS... For those of you that are taking the time to put

in your miles... THANKS!

The title read... DBC "Angels"

2008-05-12T21:49:00.000-07:00

To all the DBC Riders that stopped that day...

You know who you are... Thank you!

Sometimes we just have to stop and help a fellow

fallen rider... After all, it's what we are all about!

This is the message that was sent to the General Club...

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Davis Bike Club Members,
.
My family and I are incredibly thankful for those Davis Bike Club cyclists who climbed off of their bikes to help me on Putah Creek Road Saturday morning. With the concussion, my memory is still a bit fuzzy but I can remember your collective capable caring touch and reassuring tone of voice. My husband definitely remembers the Davis Bike Club jersey's. We weren't able to get your names but wanted to let you know you are terrific!!! We can't thank you enough for your help.

Lynne & Randy Y.

AGGIES WIN AGAIN!

2008-05-09T15:26:00.000-07:00

Paul Mach... Phil Mooney... Shawn Rosenthal... Tyler Dibble

HTFU TO THE MAX!

.

(Copy from Nor Cal Cycling News)

Hey now … got word that our UC Davis hammerheads went 1st in the Men’s Div 1, and 4th in the Women’s. And, lo, STANFORD takes the Women’s. West Coast Mafia, eh?
that rocks.
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Here’s a nice blurb (thanks E.O.B & Swatters) ~
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This morning the UC Davis men’s squad of Shawn Rosenthal, Tyler Dibble, Paul Mach and Phil Mooney WON the team time trial at the National Collegiate Cycling Championships in Ft. Collins, Colorado, beating CU Boulder by nine seconds. Stanford, last year’s Team Omnium Champion, finished eighth.

Our women’s squad of Amanda Seigle, Marisa McAdler, Amy Encalada and Amy Chandos finished fourth. Stanford’s women won.
Preliminary calculations place the Aggies in first place in the Team Omnium competition after the first day. This weekend the Aggies will compete in a road race on Saturday and a crit on Sunday. I’ll be filing news stories with the local papers on Sunday evening, but I’ll also post updates, quotes, and photos on http://sportclubs.ucdavis.edu/cycling/ as they become available.
suh-weet.
go get ‘em, you hounds!
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Congrats to E'OB and the Aggies for an awesome season... Your DBC Masters Race Team

Kelly Rocks Gila!

2008-04-30T17:06:00.000-07:00

Hello Guys,

It was a long day in the caravan for Stage 1 of the Tour of the Gila. The Women Pro,1,2 race was over a 73.1 mile course with 4,530' of climbing to an uphill finish.

There were a couple of crashes that got my heart rate up because I couldn't hear anything on the Touchstone team radios, but I never got a call up from the race officials. It was fun to be called to the front of the caravan to car feed our riders. Kelly stayed well tucked within the field waiting for the final right hand turn to start the climb. I included the profile of the last 6.7 miles of the course. The front group of around 12 riders attacked on the 13% climb at mile 2. Kelly could not match the acceleration and had to attempt to close the gap on a very windy flat section from mile 2 to mile 4. This section was absolutely brutal with 30 mph crosswinds. Once the serious climb started at mile 4, Kelly was able to get into a nice tempo and began to pass riders in the front group. Kelly said "I just kept getting stronger and stonger....If I had another 1/2 mile or so, I could have caught another 2 riders." At the finish line, She was in some very impressive company. Leah Goldstein won the stage with a 28 sec advantage over Kristin McGrath. Leigh Hobson finished 55 secs off the pace. Kristin Sanders and Andrea Dvorak were 1:31 and 1:49 back. Kelly finished an impressive 6th place, 1:53 back and ahead of Marissa Aslund, Leda Cox, Stacy Marple and Sharon Allpress to round out the top-10.

Kelly's team-mates also did very well. Maria Monica was 17th, Cara Gillis was 33rd and Olivia Dillion at 38th place. The Touchstone Team is in 4th place. This is important because I move from 8th to 4th in the caravan. I will be able to bring you more action from behind the wheel of the Touchstone Team Car!

Ciao from Silver City, NM. Home of the Gila Monster!

Steve

PS There is a nice article at Velonews! http://velonews.com/article/75600

Kelly McDonald Takes the WIN at La Vuelta de Bisbee!!!

2008-04-28T19:53:00.000-07:00

OK...not a DBC Masters Racer, but.....I couldn't resist....When she's not teaching biology, enthusiastically supporting Special Olympians to reach their goals, or just simply spending quality time with our very own love-muffin of a DBC Masters Racer Steve N., Kelly McDonald is pounding the pedals and winning races! The latest being...La Vuelta de Bisbee!!!!

McDonald TAKES THE DAY in the TT and "strips Forsman of jersey" says VeloNews! See article here:http://www.velonews.com/article/75429

Then, it comes down to the end and VeloNews once again says, "McDonald claims women's crown".... see the story here: http://www.velonews.com/article/75537/tecos-sweeps-bisbee-podium-mcdonald-claims-women-s-crown

Next up...TOUR of the GILA! 5 days of racing...and Steve is there now supporting Kelly! Our best wishes to Kelly!

Congrats Kelly! Looking for some updates from Steve! What a great hubby...ehhh!

DBC Masters Racing Team

Masters Tip of the Week

2008-04-25T11:51:00.000-07:00

Help! I Gotta Win the Sprint!

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Alright Masters... So it goes like this!

The last couple of times I had put myself into position to contest the sprint, I lost to the "Hole Shot"... Twice I sat on the wheel of the Rider in front of me, and twice I lost because I could not match this riders ability to accelerate! So I thought I would post this to help you too improve your sprinting power...

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These 5 simple (but butt-kickin') workouts will give you the acceleration, cadence and power you need for that finish-line kick.

Tim Granshaw has been racing since 1990 and has the potential to regularly nab podium spots. But one thing is holding him back: He can't sprint. "My biggest weakness has always been my sprint," says Granshaw, a 30-year-old software product manager. "If I want to win even a short crit, I need to come to the line by myself just to have a chance. The only good thing about my sprint is that it doesn't get any slower as the race progresses-sometimes it's my stamina alone that helps me win longer races."After being out of racing for four years, Granshaw has returned to it this past year, training about 14 hours a week and racing up to four times a month for the past four months. "The first two months were hard. I was dropped in the first five laps of two consecutive criteriums," he says. "But in the last month, my times on climbs and in time-trial tests have gotten very close to where I was before my racing hiatus." He has high hopes for the rest of the year, planning to race the national road championships, masters national championships and some state championship races.But to be competitive, he needs a better sprint. So we asked James Herrera, a Carmichael Training Systems coach and USA Cycling elite coach, to cook up a program to make Granshaw's sprint a force to be reckoned with."Tim has a good start because he has base fitness," Herrera says. "Before beginning a sprint training program, you need a strong foundation of endurance mileage done below lactate threshold. Without that base, sprint work will only result in muscular fatigue, soreness and a slow recovery. Plus, that early-season foundation will assure you've got plenty of endurance."Elite riders such as George Hincapie, Marty Nothstein and Mario Cippolini hone their sprinting skills by breaking down components of the sprint and targeting each specific system involved. The key elements of a sprint are a strong acceleration, a high cadence that lets you hold speed and the power to generate your finish-line kick," says Herrera.These five drills give Granshaw all that and more. After a 30-minute warm-up, add two to three of these workouts to your training at least two times a week. Then, after three weeks, swap in new workouts to fine-tune your training.

5 DRILLS TO GET BLAZING SPEED

1. Over-geared starts. Increases your power to the pedals. Slow to almost a complete stop in a hard gear, such as 53x12-15. Sprint out of the saddle for 8-12 seconds. Perform 3-5 intervals with a full recovery between efforts. For a tougher workout, combine 3-5 intervals into sets with a 10-minute recovery between sets.

2. Over-geared jumps. Gives you faster acceleration and more muscle power in the saddle. From a cruising speed of 15-20 mph in a hard gear such as 53x12-15, stomp on the pedals for 15-20 seconds while staying in the saddle. Do 1-2 sets of 3-5 intervals with a full recovery between efforts and a 10-minute recovery between sets.

3. High cadence. Teaches your muscles to pedal efficiently. On a flat section of road in a gear that will let you easily spin at 95-110 rpm, gradually increase your cadence until your hips almost begin to rock. Hold the highest cadence you can sustain for 2-3 minutes. Perform 3-5 intervals with a full recovery between efforts.

4. Downhill sprints. Develops peak power on descents. Start on a downhill section at 30-35 mph with a cadence of 100 rpm or more. Do 3-5 intervals with a full recovery between efforts.

5. Uphill sprints. Improves peak torque and leg strength for those hilltop finishes. On a flat road leading to a 7%-grade hill or steeper, start at 15-20 mph in a moderate gear. Jump out of the saddle and attack the hill for 8-12 seconds. Do 3-5 intervals with a full recovery between efforts.

TOP TEN

2008-04-22T23:31:00.000-07:00

Top Ten Reasons for doing the Race Ride!

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Ok... from an old article I found, and slightly modified...

“Nothing compares with the simple pleasure of a Race Ride.”– President John F. Kennedy

Why ride a Race Ride? When I asked 10 observers of the bicycle industry, they replied with inspired observations, unprintable expletives, lively endorsements of guilt-free dessert consumption and one common complaint — “Jeez, to pare it down to just one reason is difficult.”

A Zen teacher once asked his students why they did the Race Ride. One said he rode to carry potatoes. Another cycled to observe the world. A third said it cleared the mind, and a fourth said cycling put him in harmony with all sentient beings. The Zen master was pleased, but when the fifth replied, “I race my bicycle to race my bicycle,” the teacher sat at the student’s feet and said,
“I am your student.”

Albert Einstein discovered the theory of relativity while doing a Race Ride. And Ernest Hemingway said that, “It is by doing a Race Ride that you learn the contours of a country best, since you have to sweat up the hills and coast down them.”
And with government figures showing that 64 percent of American adults and 30 percent of children are overweight, it seems there are plenty of reasons to do the Race Ride.
How about gas prices hovering just below $4 a gallon? Or just take a gander at these reasons from 10 of the industry’s wittiest and most fanatical cyclists, and you’ll brave hot and cold just to hit the road or trails this spring.
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"Quotes from top figures in the cycling industry." (Slighty modified)

1. Racing a bike is liberating in that I (Alan)-still-feel-like-a-kid sort of way, and I'm not trapped. And parking is always free on a bike. And my bike starts every morning, even in
cold weather.

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2. Without doing the Race Ride, I’d die consuming the quantities of beer that I (Fred) do. I also race for the scenery. And what other opportunity do I have for stuffing me into too-small Lycra bib shorts?

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3. I (Janice) race because it gives me an excuse for shaving my legs.

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4. While pedaling over hill and dale, people usually notice and often talk to me (Joaquin). Because of this I've seen the good, the bad and the ugly. Like a Southern Baptist song, the good has overcome. This has been the best reason of all for bike racing. I'm approachable when on a bike. It's fun talking to kids and strangers about a sport and way of life that I love. Humanity awakens at the sight of a two-wheeled traveler.

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5. I (Bob Roll) race my bike to coalesce the burning pure horrific rage as you face knuckleheads, debutantes and four-wheeled freaks that you encounter in traffic.

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6. Your ass (Chris). As in, if you race a bike your butt ends up looking fairly tight — like two VW Beetles parking.

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7. Racing a bike has always been a major symbol of independence and freedom. But the real reasons I (Robin) go out and pound the pedals are sex, drugs and rock 'n roll. Sex: As the gap to geezerhood closes, stayin in shape for my favorite activity becomes even more important. Drugs: A long time ago I realized that maintaining my awesome boy-toy bod while enjoying my modest beer habit was going to require a lot more exercise than it did in my studly youth. Rock 'n roll: While my guitar skills have never surpassed the mediocre stage, the stuff I play in my head when I race is awesome. Just give me the steady rhythm of my fixed gear, some open road and turn it to 11, Jimi, ’cuz today we’re gonna rock!

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8. Some people train so they can race; I (Steve) race so I can train, so the all-important workout doesn’t get shoved to the back burner so easily. Nothing inspires like knowing you're going to get your butt kicked in the next race if you don’t train. The fact that I get my butt kicked anyway is completely beside the point.

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9. My wife, Liz, thinks cycling is great way to spend time as a family while burning a few calories. For her, the family ride is quality time. Then again, she does have the trailer with 50 or so stuffed animals and the 2-year-old singing “Old McDonald” attached to her tandem as we climb what must be Mont Ventoux. Hmm ... now that I think about it, cycling is the best way to burn a bazillion calories and hang with the family.

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10. I (John) live and breathe bike transportation. Does that make me a granola-crunching, world-saving utopian? Actually, my racing has a lot to do with what's good for me. Racing makes me healthy. It saves me time. It makes me feel good and gives me energy to do more in life. Of course, getting around by bike is a green thing to do. And altruism does have its rewards. Frankly, I wouldn’t mind saving the world. Makes one want to crunch some granola!

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Ciao...

2008-04-22T07:27:00.000-07:00

Hey Masters...

The weekend is over and the warriors have come home.

We want to give a "Shout Out" to all of the DBC Racers that

went down to the SEA OTTER CLASSIC.

From the domination of the Juniors in their races.

To the awesome Racing of the DBC Masters in theirs.

It was a great weekend for all. It's was great to read the

Race Reports. All saying that they had a wonderful time,

and would, and are looking forward to going back next year.

Thanks again for representing the Orange and Blue...

Ciao... Your DBC Masters Race Team

Share the road means cyclists too....

2008-04-14T22:38:00.000-07:00

This is a topic that I have been thinking alot about. The acrimony between cars and cyclists seems to be at an all time high. Recent fatalities. Road rage. Everyone wants their piece of the road. Nobody wants to yield.

A few years ago when I was working at Specialized I was sent as their representative to the state capitol to lobby for many of the most important topics to cyclists : Awareness, bicycle friendly infrastructure, safe routes to schools, etc. Representatives from Trek, Giant, WTB, and two California retailers were in attendance, and the meeting was driven by the head lobbyist for California Bicycle Coalition. It was a big deal. We meet with the Governor's deputy chief of staff.

Before we said one word about how bikes promote health and fitness, get people out of their cars, reduce pollution, reduce use of fossil fuels, etc, we were put on defense.

Damn cyclists. Critical Mass taking over the streets and nobody can get home. The lycra clad anarchists who run stop signs, take up the whole road, ride three abreast and we can't get by. They act like they own the whole road.

You know what ? He's right. Share the road means us too.

Now I love my bikes and support cycling as much as anyone but let's remember that automobile and gas taxes pay for road infrastructure.

How can you help ?

Start with this small gesture : When cars are back, and waiting to pass, in addition to yelling car back ! Carefully check the road ahead for oncoming traffic, carefully turn around and make eye contact with the driver, WAVE him politely by, give him a thumbs up that it's safe to go, you know he's there and are helping him get to his destination. Let's start getting out of the way whenever we can. Because cars really have one of two reactions when they see a group of bikes on the road :

1)Wow. These guys are jerks. I can't get by. Friggin jerks. HONK HONK. Get off the road !

2)Wow. These guys are cool. They know I'm here and waved me by. Thanks guys.

Share the Road. That means us too.

One HTFU Lady

2008-04-08T22:36:00.000-07:00

Photo from http://kwc.org

Hey Old Dudes,

So here is my report for racing on those fat tires this Saturday at the Boggs 8 hour mountain bike race. My entire strategy was to never get off the bike the entire time. I figured I could make up time on the course when the other women did normal things like stop to eat, pee, etc. between laps (I have never claimed “normalcy”). The course was a 9+ mile loop with ~1,700 feet of climbing each lap, majority single track with some fire road. The first lap I took a little fast, I got caught up with the speed of all the racers (~400) around me, many who were doing the race as relay teams. On the course at the same time were novices like me as well as the pros, but after the first couple of laps, things got spaced out pretty well. Food strategy (what food??) was on each lap to down one water bottle of Perpetuem (Hammers endurance mix) that was mixed with so many scoops I was essentially squirting something the consistency of baby food into my gullet. Turns out my nutritive paste mixture worked fantastic! 800 calories/lap + one extra bottle of gu mix. For the whole race I never felt hungry. Who needs solid food? All those calories I would have wasted chewing were left for climbing!

Just over 7 hours later I ridden 6 laps, 55 miles (mountain miles dudes…there were things like rocks, trees, small animals, and sasquatch in my way…aka no pavement), climbed over 10,000 feet and called it quits. As I came through the transition area, the announcer yelled that I had 57 minutes left to get in one more lap. I opted to stop as my fastest lap at the beginning of the race had been 1:07. As I was already nearing delirium and contemplating future endurance mountain bike races on a single speed mountain bike, I thought it wise to finally dismount from my specialized beast of burden (which I needed some help with). As I placed myself in a lawn chair, I had the most overwhelming craving for parsley and promptly ate an entire bunch of it (I did get a few weird looks from my competitors that already had beer in their hands, but I decided to save the lecturer on blood acidity for later before I got dubbed some kind of alien).

The great thing is that including myself, there were 4 total racers in the DBC kit. Even though we only made up 1% of the racing population. We had at least two podium spots! Way to go Orange and Blue! My strategy worked, and I have learned that my forte may be in the longer races. Much to my surprise, I came home with a medal for second place in my category. Dan Patten, new to DBC race team also took home a second place for his category. I never had a chance to meet the other “dude,” so if you are out there…Nice Job!, and my brother got a great picture of you, email me and I can send it to you. Corina…nice to meet you at the race (also have a photo of you). Lets ride sometime.

-jmp

Doing the Double at Martinez

2008-04-07T08:56:00.000-07:00

Well, I don't suck--but I kind of do.

Last year's edition of the Martinez Crit was contested in a driving rain, and I ended my Elite 4 race on the courthouse steps after a guy slid out right in front of me on turn one. I bunny-hopped his head, the curb, and the lower steps of the county building. Fun.

This year's racing was graced with beautiful weather--but sense memory can still cause a pucker, you know?

I've been dorking around with various warm-ups this year--easy spinning with high cadence vs. progressions to threshold, etc. Yesterday I followed a Judd plan: easy, stretch, easy to medium, easy to hard, easy to hard, sprint-recover, sprint-recover, easy. 45 minutes on a trainer sucks, but it was worth it since I took legs of iron to the line. I felt freaking awesome. I also warmed up near Chris Phipps, last year's ZTeam sensation who won everything he entered and went from a 5 to a 1 in about a year. Now he rides for Morgan Stanley. He seemed like a genuinely nice guy. I hate him.

Morgan Stanley had a huge cadre of riders, as did VOS and Wells Fargo. AMD (Larry Nolan) was not in evidence, but it was nevertheless a very quality field that strung out the race from the opening whistle. The course is pretty technical--an "L" shape with tight turns and a very bumpy start/finish straightaway. I started in 50ish and slowly passed 3-4 people a lap for about 6 laps, but then disaster struck. On the last turn into the homestretch on lap 7(?) I came around the corner in about 20th place and found the road covered with bodies (Well, okay--maybe four or five). I cut hard inside and missed a hay-baled parking meter by inches. Of course, I dropped from top 30 to 60th or so in about 10 seconds. Then, more hell erupted. Guys in front of me kept getting gapped as the pack accelerated and went single file after the crash. I closed down 4-5 good-size gaps in the next 2-3 laps, sprinting like mad to get across each time. Of course, the entire second half of the field sat on my wheel as I towed them across all the little holes. When another guy stacked it in the same turn 3 laps later, I sat up--cracked, demoralized, and a bit freaked. I spent two laps trying to get out of my head, but by then I was half a lap down with about 10 other guys sitting on, and we got pulled two laps later. Sh*t. I later heard that there was a THIRD crash in the same corner on the bell lap...and they say the Master's 1/2/3 is the safest category to race.

Photo by Casadelane Photography
(http://casadelane.smugmug.com)

The Elite 3 was anti-climactic. Stephen Jenke, Zach Wick, and Chris Stasny all suited up; Stephen stayed in the top 20 the entire race while Zach and I pack surfed too far back to influence the race at all. I lacked the power to move up on the outside or the balls to wiggle through up the middle. I simply spent 50 minutes just below threshold, berating my cowardice, ineptitude, and sloth. Anybody who tells you cycling isn't just as mentally and emotionally demanding as any other sport is either stupid or lying.

Next weekend I race a flat collegiate criterium in Santa Barbara. I intend to win it or lead out our other sprinter for the win. If one of us doesn't take it, I'll be appalled. Then a rest week follows in preparation for the conference championship TTT in Reno. After that, my Aggie career comes to a formal conclusion and I'll be a full-time DBC Geezer again.

Racing sucks. Or rocks. Depends on the day.

E.O'B.

Wards Ferry 08

2008-04-06T22:14:00.001-07:00

DBC MASTERS... Yesterday during the Wards Ferry

Road Race... Roland F. was Racing in Cat 3 men's

race with his son Andreas. When he was involved in

a crash. Roland was taken to the Hospital, and is at

home recovering.

Let's send Roland our best wishes, and thoughts for a

fast and speedy recovery.

All the Best Roland from your DBC Masters Race Team.

Clothing terms

2008-03-27T20:11:00.000-07:00

Lots of talk around about compression fabric, base layers, wicking, moisture transfer. All ideas that have been around a long time, so here's a few definitions :
Compression fabric - Increases circulation by compression of large muscle groups. Viable during and after exercise. Arteries carry oxygenated blood and red blood cells to feed your muscles, veins return de-oxygenated blood and waste products ( lactic acid ) back. The return trip is where the body needs the most help as there is lower pressure. Compression fabric helps with this circulatory challenge during activity, and can also help minimize the micro tears in muscle fibers caused by intense exercise.
Descente has a new compression tight coming this fall. The C6 Compession Tight $100
Base layer - Most use a "wicking" or "moisture transfer" type material. Why ? To get the sweat away from your skin and transported to the outside of the garment for evaporation. Too much sweat accumulation keeps you colder when it's cold and hotter when it's hot. Dry skin helps your body thermal regulate more efficiently. I wear Descente base layer almost all the time.
Antibacterial, antimicrobial - Important to reduce odor, germs, and to increase the longevity of a garment. Carbon, Silver, and some other synthetic fibers are used to create or enhance these properties. Usually found in jerseys and chamois.
Windtex or Windstopper - A coating found on lightweight shells or vests to help keep wind out. Has some breathability and some water repellency. Descente uses a windstopper that makes the garment very quiet in the wind. It's not as "crunchy" or "noisy" as some other windstoppers and feels better on.
DWR 2000 - Durable Water Repellency 2000. A coating applied to a light shell or vest for water repellency. Not water "proof" The test applied is 2000 ml of water is poured onto a cubic yard of the fabric stretched over a vise. No water can penetrate in 24 hrs to get this rating, which is considered water repellent.
5000 ml Waterproof membrane - This is a water proof garment. Same stretch test but with 5000 ml of water poured over the garment to get this rating. The Descente Element jacket gets this rating for a $160 retail price, pretty good actually, for this level of technology and waterproof-ness. Seams are usually not taped. Gore-Tex was one of the first "membranes" to be applied to a shell to get a waterproof and breathable fabric. If you have ever worn one of those clear PVC rain jackets you know why breathability is important. There are many copies and knock offs of Gore-Tex type membranes currently being produced and sold under various trademarked brand names.
10,000 ml waterproof - same test but with 10,000 ml of water. This would be a ski level garment you might see from Arcteryx or Northface. The seams would also be taped for total waterproof rating.
Wool - Still a great natural way to make a garment, although it's resurgence in poularity with the retro-grouch scene is driving cost up. Naturally anti microbial, anti bacterial, and wicking. Keeps you pretty warm even when wet. Must be coated with something to wear against the skin or it's very itchy. Dicey to wash unless your wife is in charge of the laundry. She will know about Woolite.
Flat lock stitch - That cool tech looking box stitch on your bibs. When bringing two pieces of fabric together a regular seam leaves a lip that can create chafing in sports wear and is undesirable. Look at the seam on your t-shirts or jeans, we don't want to ride with a seam like that for 3 hours. A flat lock stitch leaves no lip or border either inside or out. A contrasting color flat lock stitch can really highlight the look of a jersey or short.
Backed zipper - Some long sleeve full zip garments will have a flap over the zipper to help keep wind out. It really helps.
Zipper garage - A little place to tuck the zipper pull when you zip up. Usually on jackets, long sleeve jerseys.
That's it for now. There is so much good technical fabric out there that we can be warm and comfortable no matter what the conditions.

DBC Masters Racer Doubles as Compassionate Pediatrician!

2008-03-25T19:50:00.000-07:00

He's no stranger to the 'pain cave', taking his full share of valiant pulls and attacks at the front of the peloton, and HTFU'ing till the end of every race he participates in! His specialty...though....he is one tough TT'in mofo! One of the best on our DBC Masters Team. When he's off the bike, what does this guy do with his time? Lot's of things....but.....

Well, Steve-0 as we affectionately know him (A.K.A. Dr. Nowicki to some) has more going on than anyone I know! When he, and his wife Kelly (superstar cyclist with Touchstone Cycling Team), are not working with Special Olympics Kids in our community, or the BORP program , he's in his medical office in Davis helping kids (and their parents) in our region...or getting goof-balls like ME appointments with the doc to look after my broken bones.......for he is a Pediatrician, specializing in pediatric behavioral and developmental disabilities....and he's one of the few experts in this medical field in the region. He looks after children with speech and language impairments, learning disabilities, mental retardation, ADHD, autism, and emotional/behavioral disturbances.

As a member of the Woodland Healthcare program (yes, I've recently spent more time there than I had ever wished!), I was exposed to their recent report/magazine that featured our very own Steve-o on the cover... (see below)...just look at this doc!....I would have thought that this was the GQ mag or something! He's even got his DBC Masters bracelet on! Not to mention the stethoscope in is hands...he is one serious DOC!

BUT....just look at him with one of his patients (kids)! Look at that smile! The kids and their parents are so lucky to have Steve helping them through difficult times!

Please join me in giving a big shout out to our fellow DBC Masters racer and friend for his compassionate care of the children of our community! You make us proud Steve!

It's All About the TEAM!

2008-03-24T19:52:00.001-07:00

You know what they say...A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words!
Copperopolis 2008
(New 'improved' photo by Mr. Millon!)

COPPER 08

2008-03-24T08:54:00.000-07:00

AND... I think it goes like this... Reports from the Teams... What a Race! What a Great Day! Comments flying around from riders after the Race. From the expected norms... Like the most common one... "MAN THIS RACE WAS HARD"... To the, I was fighting off cramps! I couldn't hang on with the Skinny Dudes! I hung with the Skinny Dudes for one lap! We had them in our sights... Almost! To the "Hey Guys"... Wrong way! Then realizing this doesn't look right! Where'd they Go? Adrenaline +50... Pulse triples... Guys not working... Screaming "PULL THROUGH G#* D#% IT"... Beating your brains senseless on bad roads... Chasing... Chasing...Chasing... Pulse still screaming at 170+... What another hill... Crap! Finally the top. Wait a minute. That must mean this is the dreaded down hill... Now for some, this is not a big deal, but for others, it feels like a Death March at 40+ mph. Insides screaming, hands going numb... Oh yeah! Then there's the praying thing... Please front forks, don't SNAP! Don't Hincape... Please, Please don't Hincape... I'm goin DIE! Making deals... I know it's the day before Easter, and I know I've said a few extra cuss words today... But I promise let me survive this and I will to be extra good tomorrow! Thinking all along HTFU!... I HATE TO LOSE! HTFU... One lap down one to go... ARRGGHHHHH! Just like the instructions on a bottle of cream rinse... That word REPEAT... That in so many words describes Copper!

You'll not only hear it from our Masters Team, but from all the teams across the board. What it was like to ride Copper! On our second lap we were passing, and picking up riders from all category's, Cat 1's to Cat 3's. You couldn't help but think that a one point they were feeling pretty good. Then sometime during the Race, as Phil and Paul would say... The lights went out! We would see countless riders riding back down the hill in the reverse direction, thinking this is closer way to their car, that's what I'd guess. You know something in side them saying... DONE, OVER, FINISHED! Copper beats you up that way, part of you doesn't blame them.

We had a good Race... All the DBC Masters finished! HFTU Baby! Even though our A group fell apart, Karl and Bob held tough for a descent finish. Lee, Justin, Pat, and myself formed a great

alliance amongst ourselves, and toughed it out to the end together (one of the pho-togs has a picture of us coming across the line together, four wide). In the B group... In they came... Derek, then Lorne, and the the ultimate in HTFU... Robin! In the Masters 45+ 4/5 although un-offical at this moment... Nelson pulled off another Top Ten! Not bad from a guy who keeps saying... I'm not a Climber! Great job Nelson, way to HTFU... Then followed by Kevin.

At the end, as in every Great Race, people/racers were standing around talking about the/their day... Great Races will do that you know... Talk about them... They leave memories... Good thing I guess...

So next Year... Think about Copper... Think about how it will make you feel... Think about how you too might talk about it.

This Race called the California Pari-Roubaix of the North.

I'm full of....TITANIUM!

2008-03-20T18:16:00.000-07:00

"GENTLEMEN...WE HAVE THE TECHNOLOGY....WE CAN REBUILD HIM!" DBC Masters, remember that line from a seventies TV series? Steve Austin....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39co0zKbQAQ

Well, Dr. Peterson and his crew did just that....they fixed me up right last wednesday afternoon. For dinner that eve, I was treated to a titanium plate, garnished with 7 titanium screws...So, at least I can say I got screwed 7 times in the period of two hrs! :-} BEAT THAT Boys! ;-} See today's X-ray below...I borrowed the X-ray film from the doc and scanned it...the scan didn't turn out great, but you will get the idea...turns out it was a tough job for the surgeon, as he had to whittle away at the bones to make a good fit because of the healing that had occurred from the past injury...

After the surgery, I was groggy and a bit dizzy, but was happily greeted by Robin and Steve N in the 'recovery room'....I don't know, but in my home town of Sebastopol, CA, that was the name of a local seedy bar! With the fine drugs they gave me, I suppose it was kinda similar! Was great to see Robin and Steve...familiar and smiling faces. Within 5 min of me 'waking up', the nurse handed me my bag of clothes, and said "go ahead and get dressed"! How's that for 'drive up medicine' in the 21st century! Robin took me home to his place, and I stayed for a couple of days to recover. Robin and his family were FANTASTIC!!!! I thank them so much for looking after me for the first couple of days! Thanks Robin...you're the best!

Spent the past week sponge bathing and keeping my wing protected under the 'dressing' that felt like a diaper over my right shoulder...happily, today I went in for my one-week post-op doc visit, and they removed the dressing, and the many staples that held the 5" incision together. The first reaction from the surgeon's PA was....awesome, that looks great! whew!!!! I was relieved! Hardly could tell I was cut into! There certainly will be a battle scar, which I will be able to tell stories about in the future.

Today, Dr. P asked if I was taking it easy and keeping my arm immobilized...I said, "well, yes...I've limited my training rides to only 20-25 miles per day......long pause....". I smiled and slapped Dr. P on the arm...."just kidding!" He looked at me with a quirky half-smile, and then configured his hand into the form of a pistol and fired it at me! "If I catch you on that bike....$%&*#!"...you get the idea!

The doc wants to see me again in three weeks....he's very conservative, and wants me in the arm sling until then...with some very gentle PT movements...perfectly fine with me...I want this to heal up nicely. I'm feelin good....and Lorne! I almost have as much titanium in me that you have in your bike!

cheers,

jas

Local DBC Boy Makes Good!

2008-03-18T18:19:00.000-07:00

It's a bird, it's a plane...no, it's Dr. BIG! He can climb, he can sprint, and he will give you the best lead-out ever...not to mention he can win races! But did you know that in addition to this, and his skills with the 'colonoscope' ;-} , he is also part of a world class medical group at UC Davis taking on research and clinical intervention in liver disease! A shout out to our very own DR. BIG! If your liver or your bum starts to hurt, you know who to call! The full story in the UC Davis Medicine magazine can be found here: http://www.ucdmc.ucdavis.edu/ucdavismedicine/issues/Spring2008/features/7.html

Way to GO Dr. BIG! Making us proud on and off the bike!

How windy was it at Bariani?

2008-03-17T11:08:00.000-07:00

This Porta Potty tangled with the wind and lost. When Lorne and I rode the course Saturday afternoon it was on the the opposite side of the road.

Helloooooo! Anyone in there?!?!?

---

Just Had to say Thank You!

2008-03-16T17:33:00.000-07:00

This is just a quick Thank You to Mark Adkinson...

Hors Categorie Photography

http://www.hcphoto.smugmug.com/

for coming out to the Land Park Crit

and taking time out of his Day to support

the DBC Race Teams.

or as Mark would say... DBC- My Home Team

Thanks again Mark for all you do!

What Bike Racing is all about!

2008-03-12T19:56:00.000-07:00

Remember: It's not that I don't mind not winning, it's just that I hate to lose!

DBC Masters... It took me a little while to find this... It is a

Race Report from Scott M. (Now Team Specialized) I have

this in print, and when I need to remember why we/I race,

I read this... It to date is one of the most motivational

reports I have read. Read it word for word! In the
report the guy described as Big Fellow is one of our own.

I'll let him chime in if he wants to. So remember it's not

always about Winning the Race... But what it took to get there!

Ciao

Click on Link!
Modesto Road Race

When's the next race?

A sad, sad day

2008-03-10T21:19:00.000-07:00

I was going to post about the Merco Crit last weekend and the Stanford crit that I raced yesterday, but the news of two cycling fatalities and six moderate to severe injuries in two separate car-bike accidents has gotten me thinking about safety and advocacy.

I spent a few minutes posting my thoughts at the "Norcal Cycling News" and "Remembering Matt Peterson" Blogs.

Please, please, please, let's stay safe this season. Corrine Crawford from UC Berkeley was killed last year, John Peckham from Webcor the year before, and now Roaring Mouse and Third Pillar have each lost riders. Veterans, please ride smart and set a good example. Rookies, savor the sport and enjoy yourselves. But let all of us remember that a crash involving other bikes is nothing compared to the threat posed by a two-ton hunk of iron hurtling at us at 60 miles per hour.

While nothing can completely eliminate the risks posed by cycling on open roads, we can all do a better job of paying attention to cars and other hazards.

Update from the Merco RR...

2008-03-06T22:12:00.000-08:00

Hey DBC Masters. Well, you’ve all probably heard about it by now…but it is fine time that I spilled the beans, dispelled with any remaining mysteries and updated you on my post-Merco details.

With about 1 K to go in the Masters 35+ 4’s at the Merco RR, Stan L., Steve N. and myself went down…and damn hard! I can’t give details of how exactly this went down, because it happened soooo fast! All I remember is seeing a bike rapidly shoot out in front of me, and then I was down…no time to think at all…I didn’t have time to hit the brakes or take evasive action….actually, I went head on with the bike in front of me, over the bars and hard into the chip-sealed surface landing on my head and shoulder…The next thing I remember (and really the only thing I can recall clearly) is sitting up on the pave and seeing two of my DBC brothers lying next to me…Stan and Steve. “WTF” is all that I could think or say at that moment….and I think Stan and Steve were thinking the same….we immediately exchanged the “are you ok’s”…everybody was more or less in one piece. Shaken up, bruised, road-rash, but still ok.

After dragging my bike off the course, what is the first thing that I did? Well, of course, I pulled out my wee-wee and took a pee!!!! Huh, you ask….well, five minutes into this race I had the strong urge to pee…Was I not thinking clearly? Did I just not care that the follow vehicle and moto ref had stopped and was watching? I had to pee damnit! That is when I knew I had to palpate my right clav…didn’t want to, cause I already knew what I would find…..

Follow vehicle picked up Stan and myself (and what was left of our bikes). Steve N. mounted his Cervelo, we cheered him on (I think), and he valiantly finished the race!…flatting both tires just after the finish…rear tire was trashed and ground down to the threads! A true DBC Masters Bonobo! Also, Robin (who crashed out hard on the first lap) got back on his bike and finished the race with Justin.

When we got to the finish line, I immediately saw the group of DBC guys who had already finished…the first person I made eye contact with was Fred…he looked very concerned (as everybody else did)…you know, that concerned papa kind of look…he came over to me and asked about what had happened…I think he saw it in my eyes…enough said, he knew….he took me into his arms and gave me a very big (yet gentle thankfully!) hug…the role of the ‘silver back Bonobo’ after all!

So, here is the post-race ‘damage assessment’:

My bod:

1. Fracture of right clavicle…DAMN..NOT AGAIN!
2. A couple of fractured ribs…OUCH! That hurts! Funny thing was that this was not picked up by the radiologist…Being the scientist that I am, I checked over the electronic x-rays Nowicki sent me and I identified the fractured ribs…not bad for a ‘chemist’ eh!
3. Abrasions on my right shoulder and right arm…nada.

My bike:

1. Dented and sanded tops of my shift levers…they hit first!
2. Torn up bar tape…
3. Sanded down back of my saddle.
4. Fu-barred rear derailleur.
5. Front and rear Zipp 404 tubular wheels…TOAST…delaminated!
6. Destroyed new Giro Ionos helmet…better the helmet than my head! Giro helmets are FANTASTIC!!! Maybe they will give me a new one for this promotional plug!
7. LOOK 585 frame…not a scratch! One tough motha!

So, that’s the update on me….I’ll let the rest of the guys fill in on their experience…

I met with the orthopedic surgeon today…. looks like I’ll be getting ‘plated’ sometime next week to fix my displaced clavicle fracture. I’ll keep you all posted. But, a HUGE thanks to our teammate Dr. Steve N. for helping me out with doctor appointments and setting me up with the orthopedic surgeon! Thanks Steve! He know’s how much I love to visit the doc!… :-}

Lastly, I want to thank ALL of the TEAM for your kind emails and phone calls! This was really very touching to know that everybody was so concerned. You guys are the BEST! This has got to be the best team in the world!

I’ll sign off with this quote:

"We few, we happy few, we band of brothers; For he that sheds his blood with me Shall be my brother..." - William Shakespeare

Jas

RACE TEAM MEETING

2008-03-05T11:36:00.000-08:00

Hey DBC Masters...

Just a reminder that there is

a Race Team meeting tonight!

Yolo County Library

315 E 14th st. Davis (7:30).

Please attend if you can, and

bring your new Team Kit for

a Team photo

Thank you... Your DBC Masters Race Team

DBC Masters Take in the TOC...

2008-02-28T20:39:00.000-08:00

It's a bit late, but I've finally got around to posting something related to the Tour of California....After watching the pro's motor through Davis, a few of us DBC Masters mounted our bikes and 'raced' across the 'causeway' to witness the exciting finish in Downtown Sacramento. We figured we had to ride fast in order to make the finish, and this we did...despite the pouring rain...we were on target to get there just ahead of the pro's. Halfway across the causeway, Robin got a flat...now worries...the man is a tire changing master! I've never see someone sort out a flat in so little time...he was calm, cool, and collected. Remounted our bikes in less than 3 min, and we were back on track. As we motored through West Sac (on the course!), we were greeted with cheers and applause....gads...the fans lining the streets thought we were part of the TOUR! How embarrassing! But we must have looked like pro's or something....!!!???

After the race, we were able to mingle with the pro cyclists in the streets (see photo attached of Mario....ROCK RACING).....up close and personal....a couple of Health Net riders came by us, and one of them pointed to us and said, "Hey, Davis Bike Club!"....I think it was Roman Kilun (former aggie racer). Will Brieger (who took the posted photos) came out to greet us in his work attire....sports coat and tie....he looked pretty darn dapper and professional....I almost didn't recognize him without his helmet and shades....and a lady on the street outside of the CSC van thought he was the CSC director!!!! We rode back to Davis in the pouring rain....finishing off the day with a hot coffee at Pete's....looking forward to it again next year! Lots of fun!

SNELLING 2008

2008-02-24T23:24:00.000-08:00

I tried to think of all the things that I would like to say about my Race
at the 2008 Snelling Road Race.... But I thought for awhile about what was the most memorable things that would come to mind. For those that were able to hang on and finish in the Top Ten... I think the thanks have been flying all over the place. We the DBC Race Team
appreciate your hard work. But! Lets get down to the Bare Bones of what the DBC Masters Race Team is all about. It's about all of you that didn't make the top ten... It's about those of you that rode your Heart out!... It's about all of you that made sacrifices to do what you could to try and help another TeamMate when they were in trouble... It's about those of you that rode those lonely miles on your own... Wanting to call it quits, but something inside you kept driving you on. Never thinking that quiting was an option. Finishing the Race in whatever place, knowing that your TeamMates were still going to say GOOD JOB! with pats on the back for a job well done. Sitting in the pack, and sprinting for a Top Ten doesn't equal the HTFU that you showed. When I was at the finish line, I kept seeing DBC Masters coming across the line with smiles on their faces... Exhausted... Tried... Beat... Glad it was over... But all with the same question. How'd WE do?
I stood in the park after the Race... Listening to everyone talk enthusiastically about how they Raced... I stood in the Park after the Race watching the High fives fly around everyone excited about how we did as a Team! I stood around at the Park watching everyone sharing stories of their day. I stood around the Park watching the Team share a Bad HotDog. I drove home with a smile on my face. I got home, and watched my email start to load up with stories of excitement coming from guys the didn't finish in the top ten. It really makes you feel good that the reports where all positive both in physical experience, and memories. I loved to read all the Race Reports, and how they talked about how much fun they had, and how they are looking to their next Race with the Team... I read in the Race Reports about all the Thank You's, and the Favors, and Paybacks, owed to fellow Racers. I read about Racers talking about the fact that this was the best race of their life... I read about guys talk about how much they learned, and how much they still have to learn... I read in their Race reports the happiness at the fact they have joined THIS TEAM... I could go on about how much "I LEARNED" about what it's like to Race with such a great group of guys... But I think you've got the picture about how much Robin, Jason, Steve, and myself feel about this Team.

The picture above... Yeah! That's me at the back... Following the best group of guys there is.

Ciao... Your DBC Masters Race Team

2008-02-23T20:55:00.000-08:00

DBC Masters... Just had to say for all of you that came out today, and "Raced"

your heart out regardless of where you finished..... Walker says you ROCK!

You did the DBC Masters proud!