12/13/08 – Mary’s Corner

We managed. Not the fastest pace or the big climbs. But it WAS freezing and 70 miles is 70 miles.  At 25 miles we dropped in at the local yocal mini stop for a hot cocoa before leaving Toledo. From there the weather became rougher. The snow had accumulated onthe roads North to Mary’s Corner and the slush provided a great icey powerwash from passing trucks. After we finally turned South the reality that we were only halfway became more. How about that headwind for the final 30 miles! Nick says “character builder”. I imagine we’ll all be strong on the character scale before this is over…. does this add to last years’ character or did we start over?

12/06/08 – Bull Run

Ryan, Lance, and myself made it down south to hack off the Bull Run ride with Chad, Nick, and Shawn. The weather was stellar, and traffic not as bad as I was braced for. Good route by Chad, and remarkably many of the roads were familar from past rides with Nick, Mike Manning, and others. I can’t say that I saw what Bull Run was named for — a reservoir I think, but a ride worth the trip. Thanks Chad!

Winter Training Guidelines

Hello Fellow Three Rivers Racers,

As your new teammate/coach I am looking forward to providing you with training advice that will elevate your game to new heights. Over the next few months, this column will be your pipeline to training success. The real success lies in your commitment to training and racing. But it all starts with desire. If you want it badly enough, you will amaze yourself as well as others with your success. Being  a successful racing cyclist takes discipline. Every day you should give some thought to the achievement of your goals. And goals should be stated clearly and concisely with a finite timeline. This is your road map to success. Now you need the dedication to stick to your plan until you can measure your successes in terms of enjoyment. The team is already headed for success due to the right attitude and spirit, and a training plan that makes sense. Now I will do my best to provide you with any missing elements that you may need. Look for my messages every two weeks. See you on the road.