Dig-Zone

Dome to Where???

2010-10-29T21:05:00.007+02:00

So I decided that I better start racing again if I wanted to do a good 94.7 this year. A few good ol Joberg road races were coming up and I earmarked some good ones, 2 to 3 weeks apart to enter.
The first was Dome to Dome on 5th September. Dome to where? A race that usually started and ended at the Northgate dome, changed this year with the start and end venue being the Silverstar Casino. The race made its way towards Muldersdrift, on to Kloofzicht, Starkfontein Caves and back to the Casino...90km. There was a good turnout, some unforeseen traffic jams at the start probably caused some stress for those running a bit late but in general, reasonably well organized.

I decided that as this was my first road race since the Kremetart, I would slide into it like a taxi passing on the dirt and forcing his way into traffic....not to much thinking. Turned out it was a good ride and my choice to take it easy was the right one. ended up on a 3:27 from the E group. My plan was to start in easier groups and work my way forward until I found a group that I was comfortable in. The photo below is about 2 minutes from the end...hence the chilled look.

3 weeks later was the 106km Campus to Campus out at the North West University’s Vaal Campus. The ride takes in the famous Ertjiesberg, but it’s really the only major obstacle in what is otherwise a mildly undulating and flat route. I found myself riding 90% of the route in very small groups and the last 40km with just 1 other guy. My climb over Ertjies felt like Oprah on a single speed...by the time I was at the top I was giving myself counseling!

Here is photo of my friend and I looking as cool as cucumbers before the start. This was my first race on the new bike :-))))

Stay tuned to hear about our ride at Suikerbosrand and back, why I couldn't remember my name, a great Race for Victory and the Amashova down in Durbs...

Trek Madone 5.2

2010-10-24T21:32:00.003+02:00

So after about 3 months of "windows" shopping (or longer), and a few trips to various bike shops, fighting an inner battle of LBS (Local Bike Shop) loyalty and waiting for 2011 bikes to arrive, I finally settled on a Trek Madone 5.2.

You see, I know its not about the bike but lets be honest, these Treks have come a long way and when I saw the new color scheme (similar to the Radioshack colors), it moved from #4 on my top 5, to top 2. The fact that my local bike shop came to the party with price and a payment plan, edged it to number 1 and I am very stoked with my decision. (and I don't have any guilt about not supporting my local bike shop etc etc).

I am still experimenting with the setup but so far I've pretty much got it right...well at least it feels right. The bike with pedals and bottle cages comes in at about 7.5 and I can still change the stem and bars, saddle and pedals...never mind wheels. although the Bonrager race lights are pretty cool.

Oh and by the way, the Shlecks will be on Treks next year because the new Luxembourg based team are riding Treks next year.

Am I swapping the knobblies for slicks, dirt for tar and crossing over permanently...no way! With a Sani2C entry confirmed for 2011, I'll be back on the Green Tiger very soon but for now it's big groups, sub-3's and white socks!!!

Now all I have to do is win 7 tours de France!!!

Blog, what blog?

2010-10-23T18:44:00.000+02:00

Ok, ok so I'm not the most prolific blogger in the world but I have been seriously distracted...new bike, lots of training, lots of racing and many stories to tell. 1 month to go to the 94.7 cycle tour and so far on track. Got an entry into the Sani2C adventure and heading for Argus # 10. Stay tuned for details and more...

Powerade Kremetart Report

2010-06-07T23:45:00.013+02:00

"Kremetart" is the Afrikaans name for the fruit of the African Baobab. This fruit grows up to 20 centimetres long, has twice as much calcium as milk, is high in anti-oxidants, iron and potassium, and has 6 times the vitamin C of an orange. The leaves can be eaten as relish, while the fruit dissolved in milk or water can be used as a drink. The seeds also produce edible oil. In 2008, the European Union approved the use and consumption of baobab fruit as an ingredient in smoothies and cereal bars.

The Kremetart is also the name of one of South Africa's most popular bicycle road races and it is not the nutritious value of the fruit that makes it so popular.

So what is the Kremetart cycle race and why is it named after this super healthy Baobab fruit?

The Powerade Kremetart is a 21 year old event that attracts both competitive and social fun riders from across the country. The event is hosted by the warm and friendly locals in the town of Louis Trichardt, the P&L Hardware Cycling club and supported by various sponsors.

Louis Trichardt is a town situated at the foot of the Soutpansberg mountain range in the Limpopo province of South Africa and about 4 hours drive on the N1 from Johannesburg. From the minute you arrive in town, one feels warmly welcomed and there is certainly no lack of friendly faces and hospitality.

Our race numbers and bulging goodie bag were waiting for us at registration; the goodie bag lived up to its reputation. Note to self...grocery shopping unnecessary during Kremetart weekend!

The main affair and most definitely the flagship event of the weekend, is the 175km road cycling adventure. Here’s how it works...

There are four stages...53, 48, 52 and 22km in distance. Each stage starts at a predetermined time , in our case 7h00, 10h00, 12h45 and 15h45. Each stage has a cut off time which is 10 minutes before start of next stage. The cut off time for stage 4 is 17h30. You need to make the cut off time otherwise you are prevented from beginning the next stage. See the picture below for an idea of the route and profile.

The organisers have managed to secure full road closure for the event and this ensures a safe cycling experience. Friends and family are welcome to meet you at the end of each stage to wash you down and stock you up with treats for the next stage. Not that the food is necessary, as the organisers have arranged a surplus of breakfast, lunch, snacks and refreshments for the cyclists during the course of the day. My family really got into the spirit of things and the kids loved the concept of the "travelling picnic". The supporters really add to the festive nature of the event and this is one of the attractions of the Kremetart.

If you don't have family or friends to help out, a baggage van follows the race to ensure your stuff is available at each stage and if your supporters don't have transport, buses are available to get them to the finish of each stage before the winners arrive. The bus fee is R350 (Luxury) and includes meals and refreshments between stages as well as evening "potjie" dinner. The buses leave strictly 5 minutes before start of each stage.

Based on the success of the 175km event, you now have the option to ride a 70km version of the race and there is a short fun 12km ride that takes place too. For beginners, this is a really good way to be part of the weekend fun and you even get a medal! Something new this year, is a mountain bike race on the Sunday. Mountain bikers have a choice of 40, 30, 20 or 10km distances. I opted for a slow bacon and egg breakfast while the dust bunnies did their thing on the Sunday morning.

Official timing is done by Champion Chip and I was able to see my results and those of my friends online by Monday afternoon following the weekend. Here are my results. As you can see, we weren't in racing mode and our times reflect the social way in which we rode.

Split Times and Average Speed:
--------------------------------

Accumulated Time Split Time min/km km/h
Stage 1 - 53km 1:44:12 1:44:12 1:58 30.52
Stage 2 - 48km 3:23:13 1:39:02 2:04 29.08
Stage 3 - 52km 5:10:54 1:47:41 2:04 28.97
Stage 4 - 22km 6:03:24 0:52:31 2:23 25.14
Finish 6:03:24

All finishers received a superb finisher’s medal depicting a 2010 world Cup soccer ball and a cyclist emblazoned on a background depicting the African continent...very nice!

A locally prepared Potjie (a stew prepared outdoors in a traditional round, cast iron, three-legged pot) awaits everybody on the Saturday night after prize giving and for those that had the energy to brave the cold; it is a festive time to re-live the day’s events over a tasty meal and drinks. As we had small tired children (and tired Dad), we decided not to go but I have been told that the evening didn't end early!

Accommodation is plentiful in Louis Trichard and the surrounding areas. Guest houses, Hotels and B&B's all open their doors to the visitors and we were made to feel most welcome at the Clouds Inn hotel. Book early, if you leave it too late you may find yourself without accommodation as the events attract well over a thousand entries.

We never did try out the fruit of the Baobab. I only remember seeing one "Kremetart" tree the whole weekend and that was a bit of a blur during the 2nd stage of the race. There were probably more but it doesn't matter, the race, the organization, the locals and the camaraderie made it so special, seeing a Baobab tree would have been only a small part. We had a great weekend and can highly recommend it if you haven't done it before.

See you at the Powerade Kremetart next year!

PICTURES

Cream Tarts!

2010-06-06T17:10:00.003+02:00

I have just got back from an awesome weekend out in Louis Trichard, riding the 176km, 4 stage Kremetart road race. All went well and we had an absolutely fantastic weekend!

Full report back and pics to follow, stay tuned!

2011 Absa Cape Epic invitation

2010-06-04T10:53:00.002+02:00

I got a surprise email on Tuesday night (Day before my Birthday)...

Dear Digby Webb,

You have been invited to ride the 2011 Absa Cape Epic.

Registration Process:

Login to your rider zone with your username and password below. Please remember your login details.
Username: ******
Password: ******

Once logged in, select "Personal Invite from the Absa Cape Epic".

Once you have completed the registration form you will be prompted to submit your partner’s first name, last name, ID or Passport number and email address. It is important that you complete this information accurately. Your partner will receive an email at the address specified by you with steps how to complete their registration their registration. Please contact us if there are email address / passport number changes.

The following payment options are available:
*Immediate credit card payment
*Credit card payment at a later stage when logging into the rider zone
*Direct bank transfer (EFT).

The team entry fee must be paid in full in one transaction – no split payments between team members will be accepted by the organisers.

Please complete the registration process by 1 July 2010. The registration process is only completed once you AND your partner have completed your personal online registrations AND your payment has been received.

If we have not received your full registration details, including your payment, by 1 July 2010, your invitation to ride will automatically expire and you will lose your team entry into the 2011 Absa Cape Epic.

Please make sure you have read and understood our withdrawal and rider change policy. We recommend private travel insurance. For further important rider information please visit our website.

Click here to complete your entry.

Should the above link not work, please paste the following address into the address bar of your browser.

http://capeepic.igroup.co.za/rider/

Please do not hesitate to contact us by email with any queries.

Kind regards,

Absa Cape Epic Team
registration@cape-epic.com

Kremetart

2010-04-23T10:35:00.002+02:00

I've just enterd the 175km Kremetart road stage race on 5th May. 4 stages in 1 day, sounds like something different. For more info check out:

http://www.kremetartcycling.co.za/index.php

I have been so lazy since the Argus, I needed a bit of a Winter goal...

Frodo's FABLES-SANI2MUDDY2C DAY2 & 3

2010-03-23T20:35:00.003+02:00

The final chapter in a rather forgettable SANI2C due to terrible riding conditions.

Day 2 started as did Day 1 with a very fine mist, which made visibility down to a couple of meters. But like all hard core MCC mountain bikers we were all on the start line and only “Vern” was moaning like Julius, as usual.

The night before had been entertaining due to non stop rain causing our bloody tents to leak, there is nothing better than sleeping in a wet sleeping bag and also not being able to evacuate the tent when the protein induced gas farts started dropping.

We also had the pleasure of having a team of Virgin SANI riders in the tent next to us, who obviously did not get to chat much on the route, they were worse than a group of women at book club after 5 bottles of wine. They eventually stopped at about 10h30; I hope they did not finish Day 2, swine’s!

The MCC contingent got DAY 2 of to a start in 1 group as the organizers in their wisdom sent everybody off at the same time, it was absolute chaos. The district roads were slipperier than the proverbial banana skin and staying on the bike was quite an accomplishment.

There was still time to come across the odd roadie converted to MTB rider, these were the clowns who kept shouting “hold your line” and keep left, this was whilst on the single track! Oh yes they also signaled to all behind them when there were stones in the road!

My apologies to ALL roadies I do understand that you need to be special to be a roadie and having a personality is not required, but never fear there is hope as the MCC group does have patience and we will tolerate and abuse you. I mean we do look after guys like Digby (Not his nick name), Duncan and Andrew.

The re route was still an awesome ride, and after 30km the weather became quite enjoyable, at the Nano’s pit stop mark. “Oom” Pete showed his age when he lost his bike, we had mass panic and thought he might have to run the last 40km’s.

Eventually he found the bike and we were on our way, we had to go and face a “Push of a hill’ it did not get this name for no reason, it was rocky and steep. “Vern” was impressive and managed to ride the entire climb. I suppose it takes 1 “Push’ to know another “Push”? I really need to work on this writer’s lisp I have developed!

The Day ended with “Oom’ Peter finding his legs again, we hit the tar stretch home and the roadie in him kicked in, it was as if Grant was wearing those RED porn star cycling pants in front of a horny bull. We all had to put the hammer down just to keep up with the old goat.

Day 3 is very misleading, as everyone seems to think it is a fast day. Well as a good club captain I made sure I informed all the virgin riders to take it easy. There are some monster climbs and some scary descents.

There is the notorious corner in the game farm, which is the route’s version of a females G spot, as there is so much enjoyable action that takes place there but if you go to fast and take the wrong line you miss the spot and end up in the shit.

You know that when parents give advice kids are supposed to take it?

So why is it that when I told my old man to be careful death bend was coming up he took no notice? All I heard was the cameraman shouting here comes another one.

The ‘Old Oak” realized his error to late and hit the anchors, I have to admit Rossi would have been proud of his sideways version around the bend, how he did not end up chewing a tree was beyond me.

The last ‘little sting” of the day was on us, the well known little heart rate and big heart rate climbs. What made these even harder was that there was a guy who walked past me, I was riding at the time!

Then to rub more salt into the wounds, one of my prodigies, Kingsley, also came spinning comfortably past me, I tried to abuse him to get him out of his comfort zone, but I have obviously trained him to well as he just ignored me and carried on to the summit with a stupid grin on his face, disrespectful s%&t!

I had been riding in 1 gear for majority of the route as the mud had taken its toll on my trusty stead, I asked the guys to take it easy on me in the last fast section, but “Vern” saw this as sweet revenge for when I took him on an easy 95km ride, he was on his single speed at the time!

We were in a group of about 10 and “Vern’ and “Oom” did their impersonation of a roadie pace line, I screamed from the back o slow down, but to no avail. I looked like a novice at a spinning session who did not know how to activate the resistance on the fly wheel, my legs were going at about 200 r/min and I was going no where.

By the time we got to the mother tar uphill to the finish I was in a worst state than Liverpool football club and had to be pulled to the finish by none other than “Vern’, my hero!

I also was made aware of some major war stories as the “Cocker Spaniard’ also smashed his derailleur and had to ride the whole route on single speed mode, I wonder if it had been tampered with to slow him down?

Well done to Grant “NOUGHT” Harding and the “Cocker Spaniard’ for being the first MCC men members home, and well done to Dave ‘Try HARDER” for completing the race solo!

The Watson clan managed to get over the line all in one piece with a smile on their faces and a beer in their hands.

Oh yes, nearly forgot that Digby finally managed to get a REAL nickname, he supposedly spilt ultra Mel custard in his tent on the night of Day 2 the pictures looked like he had a posse of snails that had slithered over his mattress, his partner could not verify this but did hear a lot of rustling emanating from his sleeping bag?

See insert, reminds me of those teenage days after a REALLY good dream?

Digby is now known as ‘Colonel Custard”

Confucius states "Single woman who camps at SANI2C going to find evil intent!"

Until next year then...

On Saturday I had the privilege of leading the C ride, it was an absolute pleasure having no riders abusing me, appreciating the route and also having riders that were slower than me. We completed a very enjoyable 40km route and had only one fall, when Marieke decided to go for a mud bath.

In the A ride, I believe there was a little sprint held to the finish and the “Old Oak” gave ‘Cocker Spaniard” a run for his money, “Soep’ was blown off the back, must be those sleepless nights with the new addition to his family.

Where were all the A riders this weekend, come on boys I need you to show your faces as I would like to get the A group back to its original status as a good hard ride, filled with strong riders!

WEEKS RIDES
THURDSDAY 18H00-20H00 MUG AND BEAN NIGHT RIDE
SATURDAY 06H00 MUG
A SILENT ASSASSIN
B1 OLD OAK
B2 TRY HARDER
C ZEEEEVOGEL (The young Geriatric?)

I have also noted that the punctuality of some riders is becoming an issue, please ensure that you are at the Mug 10 minutes before the ride starts. Ride captains will be starting the ride at the allocated times and will not wait for anyone.

It is not fair on all the other riders, so please make an effort.

Sani2C album

2010-03-09T14:11:00.001+02:00

More pics from the Sani2C can be found at:

http://picasaweb.google.com/boejbanelli/Sani2CAdventure2010#

...or click on the slideshow on the right of the page

FRODO FABLES-DAY 1 OF THE SANI2MUDDY2SEE-78KM'S

2010-03-09T13:39:00.005+02:00

Day 1 of the SANI2C is supposedly the easiest day, to confirm this please ask Kevin “Michael Naiker” Perkins, he actually stated that he was pooping himself so much on the single track that he had skid marks on his chamois that Sarel Van Der Merwe would have been proud of.

The night’s accommodation before the start was very pleasant, we had the MCC group in the school library, unfortunately there were no books with pictures for “Vern” to look at!

We all got to meet “Digby’s’ partner who settled into the banter quite naturally, he was abusing FRODO the wise one after only one hour, nice!

For the first time in my SANI experience the weather God’s did not want to play along, the conditions were terrible it was as if 1500 cyclists had been dropped off in the UK for a little ride in their normal weather conditions, now we know why Poms are always so miserable!

There was this fine drizzle that followed us around the route and was just enough to irritate the hell out of you and make the single track slipperier than a Teasers girl covered in baby oil. The only way to keep my sense of humor was to abuse “Vern”. He was riding behind me and had so much mud speckled on his face, it looked like he had been practicing changing a baby’s nappy with his teeth.

When riding on the fast district roads it was like trying to navigate a road bike on an ice rink, along the way we passed a couple of ‘KFC” downhill wannabe’s, they had obviously run out of skill and had ended up in the ditch, was not a pretty sight.

‘Vern”, ‘Old Oak”, “Die Harder” and myself had decided to ride as a foursome, this was probably the closest we would ever get to a foursome, and were taking the ride as a 3 day club ride. It was definitely the way to go.‘Die Harder’ set the pace in the initial stages as he was a bit concerned about his fitness; it was at this point that the boys decided that we would call him “Oom Pete’ for the weekend, we finished the day quite comfortably.

MCC had 10 teams competing in the Adventure with a couple of virgin SANI riders; boy did the weather ensure some character building took place.

It was great to see ‘Popcorn’ get in safely at the end of Day 1, unfortunately his partner came down with a bug and had to withdraw so Dave had to ride solo, this was ok as he normally rides on his own right at the back on club rides any way!

The Watson Wallies also pulled in with a muddy smile on their faces; they quickly organized someone to wash their bikes and headed off to the bar as “King’ Kev felt his crew had dehydrated on the route!

“Road Rage” has to take the prize for patience as even his wife admits he has to, and I am quoting, “Put up with a lot of shit”, not only does he have to clean 2 bikes, carry 2 boxes and lube all the creaking and squeaking parts (I am not talking about the bikes either) but he cannot not even have the satisfaction of dropping a dart in the tent after a tough day on course. It was good to see the married couple get in with smiles on their faces, just shows what desperate measure some parents will go to in order to have some time away from the kids?

My Old man does not seem to get enough of his son, funny enough; mind you his darts smell similar to mine must be in the genes?

Farting, I believe is not only a female bug bear, “Oom Pete’ informed us at dinner that “Vern’ is also offended by words of wisdom emanating from the toothless hairy one!

Well with Day 1 under the belt and all club riders safely home, even though Grant “ Naught” Harding” had a tough day trying to hold onto the leash of his un-domesticated “Cocker Spaniards” hairy tail.

We also had Greg ‘Mindaar” up there in the top 30 on day 1, bloody race snake!

Talking about Race snakes well done to team “Whine and Stein”, who managed a 3h37 on day 1 of the Race, 1 hour faster than the MCC Adventure boys, bet they did not see all the wonderful scenery?

Day 2 the hardest day ominously looms, read about all the war stories in next week’s edition of FRODO’S SANI2MUDDY2SEE!

Results can be found at www.sani2c.co.za, sorry if I did not find everyone:

Team Name Rider A Rider B Combined Time Position
The Twomusthavebeers Grant Harding Arkaitz Poncela 15:27:17 171
MCC old Farts Victor Tesar Peter Hawkins 16:51:08 338
FRODO AND OLDOAK Burnett Wayne Malcolm Burnett 16:51:09 339
Scooby Dudes Elize Ramsay Anthony Ramsay 18:27:14 497
Reflex David Cooper Greg Wilson 19:29:23 Ind
shova khale mark frara kevin watson 21:04:50 655
paddy and son rynan watson barry watson 22:04:30 668
Chase n Buckballs Greg Chase Andrew Francis 13:41:23 24
Subaru DCC Looneys Neil Thorns Digby Webb 15:45:50 204

WEEKS RIDES
THURSDAY NO PLANNED RIDE
SATURDAY 05h30 MUG AND BEAN
Elite 100km + Ride
06H00 MUG AND BEAN
A SILENT ASSASIN
B OLD OAK
C FRODO

Correct the C riders will be HAVE THE PLEASURE of FRODO’s company on Saturday, Geriatric has requested that some new routes are mapped out for the up and coming C riders, please lets have a big turn out, will be a blast and I will be sharing some entertaining war stories from the SANI2MUDDY2SEE!

Pics from Van Gaalens ride

2010-02-25T22:54:00.014+02:00

Crossing the Jukskei river

15km to go!

In the middle of nowhere, the spirit of MTB!

Puncture repair!

The boys and their toys!

The Silent Assasin Sports Illustrated pose!

"Road Rage" during a calmer moment!

Frodo and various other Hobbits!

Easy riding heading out of Midrand

Frodo and his wing-men!

Frodos Fables 24 Feb 2010

2010-02-25T10:02:00.002+02:00

Well the MCC mountain bikers had another very successful dirty double over the weekend.

The plan was to ride a nice easy 3 hours on Saturday, but this was slightly misleading as I felt guilty about disappointing all the Frodo followers who travel from far the ends of the earth just to get to spend some quality entertainment time on a Saturday club ride.

So the ride ended up being 4h30 much to the horror of Pete ‘Fish Curry” Hawkins who is really starting to show his age, he was getting quite irritable and was seen talking to himself on a couple of occasions, but like a true war veteran he stuck in there like poo on a blanket!

I decided to stick to 3 groups this week due to the strength of the riders being fairly similar. The A and the B riders went out towards Irene and the C group waddled off on their weekly tour of Blue hills, I have promised Geriatric that I will be joining the C ride after Sani to share the Frodo selection of sexy routes.

This does not detract from the wonderful work the old fart has done in looking after as well as developing this group of future Burry Standers, with the exception of Leon “Pop Star” who is ready to pair up with Bill in the new category of Grand Grand Masters!

I was informed through my spies on the route that Neville gave “Pop Star’ a bit of a working over on the 50km ride. They got back to the Mug and ‘Pop Star” was slobbering harder than a bulldog that had chased a parked car for half an hour.

What was refreshing to see was the amount of abuse handed out by the now very cocky Watson Clan as we passed each other on the route, this was another proud moment in my career, it is moments like this that make my function so meaningful.

As far as entertainment goes, Frodo was really out to claim the Red Jersey this week. When I fall I generally make it quite spectacular and I also back it up with a loud noise followed by some rather foul descriptive terms! On Saturday I tried to defy logic that states that you cannot ride a crossing between a Palisade wall if your handle bars are wider than the crossing, the odds of the handle bars hooking in the wall are pretty high!

When my handle bars did hit the fence there was only going to be 1 winner of this fight, my bike acted like a bull that had just been stung on the balls and I ended up in the ditch. What was most disappointing was that for the absolute gracefulness of the dismount I did not draw any blood, the group asked if I wanted to try again so they could all watch, bloody smart arses!

Then we had Elize ‘Pace Snake” Ramsay who decided to show us her swimming skills in a very big muddy puddle, all we needed was another lady and a bottle of baby oil and we could have had some A grade mud wrestling?

At the base of Breakfast Hill, the A and B groups met again, another volley of abuse was fired by King Kev and he managed to block the A riders whilst Watson junior impressively powered to the top of the mother of a climb as King of the mountain!

The rest of the ride was fairly quite apart from when we lost “Detox” and Kingsley, who were off doing there own thing, we did all eventually hook up again. Have to admit though most improved rider on the day was definitely Kingsley, he looks ready for the SANI2C test next week.

As for the blow out of the day, “Try Harder’ earned himself a new nick name, he had to be collected 5km’s from home as he was battling to sit on his bike never mind ride the damn thing. When Old Oak picked him up he was standing there eating a mielie cob see attached picture, it was easy to rename him “Pop-corn”. 10 points for the group trying to push him home!!

Then on Sunday 11 of us hit the fairly unfamiliar route of riding from Midrand to the Cheese farm, it was the most amazing ride, it was 80km’s and it had everything from river crossings to rocky single track and some technical climbs. At the 40km mark we had managed to average 21km/hr and I made a comment to “Road Rage” that the route was not so technical and Elize would have been ok!

Famous last words, the next 15km’s had so many rocks I thought we had passed into Boksburg during a biltong festival!

Needless to say here I managed to claim my second fall of the weekend, again was fairly spectacular, but this one hurt as I landed on a mini rockery!

The ‘Silent Assassin” did a great job in the navigation of the route as well as help Duncan repair his cut side wall of his tyre, this is definitely one that will be rescheduled again.

On the way in to the finish “Road Rage” also had a slight mishap, when we all ducked under a tree, he did not duck enough, his bike carried on and he ended up dangling from the tree like a bunch of grapes, “Fish Curry’, when he had finished laughing, pulled him down, bloody Houtkop.

Vasbyter for the ride was a close toss up between “Fish Curry’ and “Road Rage” but will have to give it to RR as Pete came strong towards the end!

Well done to our professional action snap man, Digby managed to get the MCC riders in all their glory, see attached pictures. Roadies do you see what you are missing?

Does the “Silent Assassin” not look like he was posing for the sports illustrated swimsuit edition?

All SANI2C participants please be in your MTB club colours on Saturday, I would like to have a picture for the Midrand Distorter.

WEEKS RIDES:

THURSDAY 16H00 CARLSWALD NORTH
SATURDAY 05H30 MUG - ELITE GROUP 140KM’S
06H00 MUG
A SILENT ASSASSIN (For the guys who want to go a bit harder and further than 3 hours.)
B FRODO (Chilled 3 hour ride all SANI2C riders will be in this group)
C GERIATRIC

Photos to follow...

Frodo's Fables 16th Feb 2010

2010-02-16T22:28:00.001+02:00

After a late night watching the Parlatones, I woke up at 05h43 on Saturday morning thinking I am sure I am supposed to be somewhere; you can imagine when the penny dropped mass panic set in! I must have set a new record for getting to the Mug and ready to ride in about 15 minutes; I need not have worried though as ‘KFC” had also had a lay in and was fart arsing around! As your fearless leader I have to apologies for the lack of control on Saturday and I hope every one ended up in a group suitable for their pace.

Feedback I received from the ride captains was that there were a lot of tired bodies once all the rides were completed; this goes from the elite group all the way down to the D riders, this was probably due to the temperature reaching 40 degrees, we were sweating more than Zuma at a Paternity testing.

The turn out on Saturday was extremely healthy and warrants us having 5 groups, so we will try this again on Saturday.

In the elite group there was only 4 riders and it was a hard ride of 100km’s with 1700m of climbing and in the heat I believe wives were called to pick up the pieces along the way, enough said. The elite ride will be leaving at 05h00 this Saturday and will be 100km’s at an average of between 20-22km/hr dependant on the route.

The group I had the priviledge of leading was great fun, it is great to hear the banter with the guys laying bets amongst themselves who would pop first and have to buy the group coffee. I do believe the winner was Louie who was looking good until 5km’s from the end where he was doing a great imitation of “Burry’ the week before! Louie you can get credit at the Mug if this is going to be a weekly edition?

“Pace Snake” also stated more than once on the ride that she was gat full and did not see the logic of riding up a hill to see millions of lady birds, she told us to take a picture.

In the A ride led by the Assassin, the pace was sociable for most, but a little bird whispered in my ear that “Vern” and “Sallad” were gum beating ever so slightly and were giving the fit Epic riders a hard time!

We had the priviledge of having Willem the “Tar Tart” join us on the ride with his Epic partner and with Philip they were chasing each other up the hills like 3 wild dogs chasing a bone.

Ronnie the comments made about your route were all complimentary.

Every week I do not get to discuss the up and coming riders of the club. Geriatric Bill has done a wonderful job in recruiting a group of riders that epitomize the culture of the club. The D riders were led out towards Irene by Bill who does a similar route every week but because he has Alzheimer’s he thinks he is continuously discovering unchartered waters week in and week out, he also thinks he has a new batch of riders every week!

The fact of the matter there were some valuable lessons learnt on his ride, that being that always ride prepared with spares. “Popcycle’ has been riding without a spare tube for a while, well this week he had 3 punctures, probably find that he put the same old tube back in. Do not laugh, I have seen it happen with experienced riders, hey dad!

Moral of the story would you pitch up to the Sabie Experience with out a rain coat, the answer is very simple!

I also believe Marika had her customary double dismount, she was told that it was happy hour so she decided to fall off twice in one ride! Oh yes and lastly “Geriatric’ navigated them through a dreaded swamp of mud, the girls definitely added him to their Valentines list and have labeled him a dirty Old man, well if the MTB shoe fits…!

I have another wonderful DIRTY DOUBLE weekend planned, no Vern it does not include Teazers girls. Saturday will be a chilled club ride and Sunday will be a monster 90km ride to the Cheese farm where we will meet the families and have lunch, I hope that all RSVP me or there could be some hungry souls when you do not have a spot booked at the table.

WEEKS RIDING
THURSDAY 16H00 CARLSWALD NORTH 40KM
SATURDAY 05H00 MUG ELITE GROUP 100KM
06H00 MUG
A FRODO
B DIE HARDER
C T-BAG
D GERIATRIC
SUNDAY 06H00 MUG TO CHEESE FARM 90M (HARD RIDE)

Wise man once said the more you practice the luckier you get, shining example would be Hugh Hefner!!!!

Frodo's Fables 10th Feb 2010

2010-02-11T17:19:00.002+02:00

All the SANI participants have been looking for some harder longer rides, well this weekend the rides dished that up in abundance.

The A ride on Saturday, even though it was the familiar “Ruin” route, seemed to take its toll on most of the group, with the exception of Rob. I have to admit Rob was extremely well behaved and controlled himself in the ride, he only moaned about the route 15 times, so he must be maturing with age, I am convinced he was a roadie in his past life?

A couple of the B regulars decided to tag along and put in a sterling performance. As far as entertainment goes, whilst sitting on the outer boundary of Northern Farm waiting for Grant who had his chain come off, we sat and carried out some great game watching. I am quite an avid bird watcher and personally recognized a pair of double breasted Robins fly past on specializes, I am sure their names were Sue and Jacky Robins?

I now know why Paul Ruinard does not ride with the club, he adamantly states that it is because MCC are up to early; we all noticed you circling around the “Robins” like a vulture who had just spotted a Dassie.

There were a couple of candidates for the RED JERSEY this week, “Road Rage” was unable to defend his title as he was at home baking cakes for his youngsters party, but we had an early effort from newbie Louie who took a slow motion tumble on the rocky climb up the ruin, but without doubt the jersey is handed over to ‘Vern” who managed to fall on the only piece of tar we rode on for the entire 70km’s. He was adamant it was Duncan’s fault, but last time I looked “Vern was following him?

Fortunately “Vern” landed on his head so there was only slight damage to the tar!

Vasbyter of the day was spectacularly claimed by “Burry” Elliot who at the 55km mark popped like a corn kernel in a hot pot. At one stage he asked if it was snowing as all he could see was white spots.

Fortunately we were close to home so he could take the most direct route home to go and lick his wounds.

The ‘B” riders had, what we all thought was an unwelcome addition to their group. “KFC” decided to join them, we all giggled and were excited about a peaceful quiet A ride for a change.

Well surprisingly “KFC” was lavishly praised by the Watson clan, even though that was not the words Kevin used when they were taken up the steep ruin climb for the first time. The B riders also managed about 70km’s and well done “KFC”.

For the Virgin SANI2C riders and those not lucky enough to have an entry have a glimpse at these links to see what you will be missing.

Concrete strips to Tamika's Detour: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ShxaCuUajDU
Murrays Meander to Nicks Pass: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8xPb7aREL9E
The all new Yankee Doodle: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Pk1fPmEroc

Then on Sunday Chris led the start of the Hekpoort 100km ride which was very well attended with 18 riders present. Well after 5km’s I could already see where this was headed as some of the boys were already comparing who had the biggest pump in their pants!

I spoke to Chris and we split the group into two, Rob’s balls had also started getting itchy so we had to send him ahead!

The ‘Elite” group sped off like an Ethiopian who was late for a free meal, whilst the rest of us sane riders enjoyed the scenery and socialized.

Going up and over Breedts neck was like watching Bafana Bafana play football, slow, painful and with no real aim. I mean why ride up, and then down only to ride back up the bloody thing again. At the Spaza shop we carried out a closer inspection of kev’s aka ‘Michael Naiker” wheels, they must have been pumped to about 9 bar. His view was that his bike was like a wife, if it is working, quiet and is not giving you shit then do not play with it!

Have to admit Kev rode a lot better than that fateful Thursday ride he joined us on, he had managed to rediscover his sense of humor, cannot say the same for “Die Harder” who we have had to reclassify due to his latest form, he is now affectionately known as ‘Fish Curry”. Pete had raced hard on Saturday and had no legs for Sunday’s excursion; this is a man who normally can ride for 365 days a year. I am still convinced that the effort he had to put in to ensure they beat “Burry’ and me at Mankele has scarred him for life? Oh yes entries have opened and there will be a revenge session is on the cards!

A rider who has improved since he last rode and exploded with us was Jaco, it is great to see these guys who come back after being battered on a ride and have become extremely strong, and I still managed to give him a go on the home stretch though.

Talking about the home stretch, “Vern” was whining like a pig on helium, he has almost taken over the mantle from Rob lately or maybe it was the fall on his head on Saturday?

To all who want a very tough stage race, get your entries in for the Mankele 3 towers, there is some stunning riding and I rate it better than SABIE!

Due to the popularity of the A ride on Sunday, I heard that the pace was hard but all the boys loved it, well done Chris, there will be an real A ride this Saturday but will start at 05h30 from the Mug and will be captained by Chris ‘The Goat” Steinbach, so all you strong boys be there or be square like me.

Any one looking for an Argus entry please contact me.

WEEKS RIDES
THURSDAY 16H00 CARLSWALD NORTH (FRODO)
SATURDAY 05H30 A MUG AND BEAN (THE GOAT)
06H00 B MUG and BEAN (KFC)
C MUG AND BEAN (T BAG)
D MUG AND BEAN (GERIATRIC)

3 WEEKS TO SANI SO GET IN THE HOURS OVER THE NEXT 2 WEEKS.

Cyclists Iliac Syndrome : temporary relief by balloon angioplasty - PART 1

2010-02-07T18:30:00.002+02:00

I have decided to spend some more time posting thoughts and discoveries regarding a common, but often misunderstood symptom experienced by many cyclists, professional and not-so-profesional alike...External iliac stenosis due to endofibrosis.

As already discussed in a previous post, I experienced pain and a lack of power whilst cycling at high heart rates, a Dopler test to confirm it, followed by a Balloon angioplasty procedure, brought a 2-3 year period of relief. The surgeon warned that the procedure could be temporary and that if the sensations returned, I would need to put a stent in...a more permanent procedure. This would be more serious, more expensive and I would need to take some time off work for recovery. As I am not a professional, the decision would have to be well thought through.

I have decided to split this post into 2 editions, the first being an interview with Stuart O'Grady, a well know professional cyclist who's story explains the symptoms, causes and experiences quite well. The second section will be my own experiences and fears, as i have been training for the Sani2C, I am scared that the same thing is happening to me...

But for now, here is Stuart O'Grady's story.

Like having new legs

Just a couple of months ago, 2001 Australian Cyclist of the Year Stuart O'Grady and his French Credit Agricole team were winging their way toward another Tour de France and, hopefully, some more of the green and gold he earned in last year's epic ride. But then, last month, the Adelaide rider found himself under the knife in hospital in Lyon with a rather serious blockage in his iliac artery, and facing at least a month of bed rest. What about le Tour?

Cyclingnews reporter Karen Forman spoke to Stuart on the phone last night. What did Stuie say? "I've been on the bike again (and) I'm still doin' it!" Of course, Stuey, we never had ANY doubts . . .

It started as a twinge. An annoying, painful cramp that would strike once every three months, but didn't seem all that important at the time. It was just something that happened during training, and when training is anything up to 1000km a week on a bike, it was natural just to put it down to one of those over-use things that athletes have to cope with in their pursuit of glory.

But then it got worse.

The wretched thing started to come on more often, and even worse, it started occurring during races. Big races. Like in Catalunya in 1997, when he was leading and stood a good chance of winning. But after that cramp came on, instead of finishing first as he had hoped, Stuart finished 19th. And he wasn't real happy. He thought he was just having a bad day.

Still, Stuart keep on doing his thing, just putting the annoying cramp down to bike riding. Just part of the game. One of those things. Bloody annoying, but not disastrous.

The years passed. Stuart was riding well. And he seemed to be dealing with the cramp problem.

But then, when he had to withdraw from the 17th Clasica de Almeria in Spain on March 3 this year because he simply "couldn't pedal any more" Stuart knew that whatever was going on with his left leg was more than just a cramp. Suddenly, he wasn't just thinking about his career, but his life.

What the heck was going on? Why was it, when he had hung on through all the uphill attacks, that this thing was coming on now?

"It had started happening bit more frequently in the past few months," he said, down the phone line from his lounge room in Toulous, France.

"It happened in Adelaide which I won... but then it was a struggle to ride home. Then, after I got to France, I was out training one day and it happened. Then I was in a race, the Clasica, leading. It was then I realised it was a bit more serious, something was definitely wrong. I had been in a break, I had attacked up the climbs, but all of a sudden I couldn't pedal or anything. I had to pull out."

Lucky he decided to seek medical attention. After all, when you have a blockage in a major artery supplying blood to the legs, you are facing a relatively serious situation. Not only is it a threat to your ability to function as a pro cyclist riding for the French Credit Agricole team and heading for more green and gold in the 2002 Tour de France – but it endangers your ability to function as a human being. To be able to walk, run, sit – all those things that most of us take for granted. Things that need a blood supply to be able to function efficiently.

"I had been feeling some pretty weird sensations for a while," Stuart said. "My first recollection of it happening was about five years ago. Then it was happening once every three months, but it never bothered me so much. I never thought it would need an operation or anything. The symptoms were similar to other symptoms you get. I just thought it was just cramp or you know, I was training wrong. I put it down to fatigue. But I was finding that as soon as it locked up, that was it. There was nothing I could do to get rid of it. Still, as long as the road was flat and I was not in a hurry, I could get home."

Doctors ordered a Dopler test, which is basically like a VO2 max.

"You get on the bike and go flat out and straight after they take your blood pressure in both ankles," Stuart explained. "If there is a difference in the reading, you're in trouble. They can see whether the blood is getting down to your feet."

Stuart's tests showed he was in trouble.

The common iliac artery – one of two main arteries going down each leg from the heart, each about five centimetres long – was blocked.

Medical journals will tell you the importance of the iliac arteries. They diverge from the termination of the aorta, pass downward and lateralward, and divide, opposite the intervertebral fibrocartilage between the last lumbar vertebra and the sacrum, into two branches, the external iliac and hypogastric arteries; the former supplies the lower extremity; the latter, the viscera and parietes of the pelvis.

Stuie was happy and not so happy to hear the diagnosis.

"At first it was kinda good to know this was finally the problem, it was a relief," he said. "But at the same time it meant I needed surgery ASAP and that meant I had to stop the season straight away."

With his dream of an even better result than last year in the 2002 Tour de France disappearing by the minute, Stuart was lucky to find a doctor in Lyon who could get the ball rolling immediately.

"Normally there's a month or two waiting list in France, but I was lucky," Stuart said. "The doc, kind of through the team, was able to get the op moved forward, to a week later. And it meant I could probably still do the Tour."

Stuart was in surgery for four hours so the surgeons could remove the "kinked bit" and in hospital for a week.

"You are basically bedridden, you cannot get up," he said. "When the chiropractor came two days later for rehab, I tried to stand up and almost fainted straight away. That's when it hit home that this was scary... I couldn't even get to the door of my room. Yet here I was, hoping to get to the Tour de France."

He said the piece they cut out was one of the worst blockages his surgeon had seen. " He downloaded some digital pix taken during the operation and gave them to me," he said. "He was pretty amazed that I didn't have more problems."

As to why Stuart ended up with a kinked artery is anyone's guess. But cycling obviously played a major part in it.

"They don't know the exact cause." Stuart said. "I did quite a few extra tests in the research, but they just don't know what makes the blockage.

"Being in a cycling position, puts a lot of pressure on that part of the vein that blocks up. The doctor figured out I had done 350,000km since I been a cyclist since I was 16, so obviously it had something to do with that."

The good news is that after a month of no activity – which is a high risk period for patients following such surgery due to the possibility of high blood pressure and internal bleeding – Stuart is back on the bike.

"I got on a week ago, but only for a 20 minute effort," he said. "Things felt a bit funny but nothing was sore, I got through it okay. And yesterday, I had my first hour ride on the road and felt okay. I am fresh and my heart rate is pretty high."

He said after all that time off the bike so early in the road season, it was great to be out on the road again.

"From now on it is a constant build-up. In two weeks I will be on the bike for three to four hours," he said. "Obviously there has been a radical change to the program. Instead of doing the classics as I had hoped, I start off my season with the Tour of Picardie (France), I think May 17, then two tours in Germany – the Tour of Germany and Bayern-Rundfahrt.

"Everything is still scheduled for the Tour – that's why the operation was done ASAP. I have got a month training now and when I start racing again in mid-May, that still leaves me six to seven weeks of full-on racing and training.

"It wasn't the start I had hoped for, but you have to take the positive points out. I am very motivated already. I am not tired getting hammered through Paris-Roubaix. It has been interesting watching the classics, especially the P-R and Flanders. I had never seen them on TV before. Watching them on TV makes you realise the importance of positioning in those races. You know it, but when you see it on TV that really confirms it. It is really important to be up the front."

It was also a little inspiring.

"Another positive point was seeing guys like Museeuw in his mid 30s winning that kind of race," he said. "I am 27..."

Stuart's operation might have been serious, but it certainly wasn't unusual. At least, not in the cycling community.

"There have been six guys my team had the same operation. One of my good friends had it," he said.

"He told me that when I come back I will have two working legs and will feel a bit different. That means not having a leg that keeps locking up."

Unfortunately, while Stuart has been recuperating, his Credit Agricole Team has not been doing all that well without him.

"Actually they are going pretty bad, besides Voigt who had a win," he said.

"But then, Credit Agricole have a history of not getting their act together at the start of the season and doing it pretty slowly.

"When the good team is together it is really strong, but we all have to be there and be clicking together... got to have confidence and start riding well. Get it together.

"It hasn't been a real lucky year. Mer broke his collarbone at the start of the year as well and has been out."

Still, despite his tough luck and his team's misfortune, Stuart O'Grady is feeling very motivated and ready to get back on the back.

"As I said, I am fresh in the mind now, knowing I will have no further problems with my leg. I know I am not going to come out in my first race and kick butt. It will be a slow process in building up and put everything on the Tour again – but I can't wait!"

Part 2 to Follow...

Frodo's Fables

2010-02-03T21:00:00.008+02:00

I have decided to post our weekly newsletter from our local MTB club, Midrand Country cyclists. Most of the time the reports are from "Frodo", the big MTB Kahuna, who organizes and keeps the rides going...the dude we all rely on and love! The reports follow any main ride that the club does, most cases after the long Saturday ride or well attended races. Here is the one from Saturday training ride...enjoy!

SAT 30th Jan 2010

Rain rain go away, all mountain bikers have had enough of the mud thicker and rougher than day 3 of SABIE, see attached pictures to refresh memories!

“Sallad” and “Silent Assassin” look like shit house technicians at last years SANI after the guys got the bad case of the squirts!

This weekends ride was one muddy affair, we were really surprised when the Mug allowed us to sit and have breakfast after the ride. The other patrons thought an army of bush rekkkies had decided to pop in for breakfast after a camouflage session in the muddy Midrand outback.

Both rides were reclassified as Mud wrestling events and the most impressive participants were "Old Oak' and 'Road Rage" who were both frolicking around in the mud like horny hippo's.

Riding through the mud at Irene was like trying to go down a super tube standing up on roller skates, once you started sliding you had to go with the flow and inevitably ended up on your arse.

I was really popular with the route selection, but hey it was highly entertaining to watch. The A riders completed 75km’s whilst the B riders managed 60km’s.

We had our fair share of mechanicals and without our own AA roadside assistance in the form of the "Silent Assassin" we would not have got home, he is one important guy to have along on the rides, especially when you have the technical skills of the Burnett's on show.

As most are aware nick names have become a sort of tradition in the club rides, heard a humorous story during the ride. Vaughn apparently asked Digby innocently, “ How did you get your nick name Digby?” Digby is his real name! There can be only one “Chainlink”

It is official we do have a SPECIAL group of personalities.

Pleased to announce that “Road Rage” claimed back his RED JERSEY, when he was break dancing in the mud he managed to rip of his old scab and drew blood, talk about winning on a technicality.

Well done to all the C riders who went and competed in the FAST ONE MTB race on Sunday, heard it was fast and flat..

I just have to share this, we were having a braai at “ Vern’s” place on Saturday when Chris popped in, we asked why he does not ride with us anymore and the comment dropped was that we are to slow, careful tiger I will have to set the Old Oak and Die Harder on you to sort you out. The Old Oak did have Chris worried on the morning ride when he chased him up slow poison hill.
Besides Chris, I saw first hand how you ride in groups on Sunday. Chris managed to have “Road Rage” knocked off his bike when messing around with “Vern”. You are obviously not aware of the reason Antony received the nick name “Road Rage”, Chris you nearly had your bar ends wrapped around your ears.

The SANI2C is nearly on us, so another big weekend in the saddle is planned, the boys and girls are putting in the hours and rumors have it that “Vern” has been roped into yet another late stage race entry, he has started using so much “Blue Steel” bum cream that when he farts it sounds like he is gargling!

Week’s rides

Thursday 16h00 Carlswald North

Saturday 06h00 Mug
A FRODO
B TRY HARDER
C POPSTAR

Sunday 06h00 HEKPOORT 100KM

Chris will be taking the ride so bring the tourniquets. The ride will start from the Hekpoort garage at 6am sharp. A convoy will leave from the Mug at 04h45. Will send directions soon.

Sani2C training

2010-01-21T16:54:00.004+02:00

Here is a video clip of one of the 6 hour Sani2C training days, I did 6 hours, 120km, 20km/h. Enjoy.

Sani2C partner in Accident

2010-01-14T20:57:00.002+02:00

My Sani2C partner, Dave Jones was in a serious bike accident just before New Years eve, whilst out trainng for Sani2C, which involved a head-on collision with a mini-bus. Dave is ok but had to spend 5 days in ICU and has sustained many injuries including broken vertebrae, cracked sternum, crushed foot and multiple scrapes and bruises.

Dave my bud, we wish you a speedy recovery!

It looks like we will be able to substitute for another rider. I have asked a good friend from CPT, Neil Thorns. If he can get 4 days leave it will be game on!

Training is going well, doing about 8-10 hours per week.

I am going to post some training videos soon.

Sani2C Here I Come...Wahooooo!

2009-11-23T18:29:00.003+02:00

Since my last post I have been enjoying plenty of road racing. I've knocked off:

Amashova
Telkom Satellite Challenge
Bakwena Classic
94.7 Cycle Challenge

...been enjoying it, getting fitter, losing a bit of weight, but last week got a huge surprise when my Cape Epic 2006 partner, Dave, called to say his Sani2C partner has bailed and would I like to do it with him. Within half a day I had paid the substitution fee and commited.

For those that don't know, the Sani2C or Sani to Sea or actually Underberg to Scottburgh, has got to be one of the best rated Mountain bike stage races in the world. No kidding, it is impssible to get in and has a veeery loooong waiting list. Needless to say I am absolutely stoked!

If you want to have a closer look, go to http://www.sani2c.co.za/

There are 2 versions of the event, the Sani2C and the Sani2C adventure. We have an entry for the Sani2C adventure...a more social, not too competitive version of the event.

and so the big kays begin!

Itec Dome 2 Dome

2009-09-14T11:36:00.002+02:00

I raced the Itec Dome 2 Dome yesterday, it was only 91km, but boy were there hills! My time in the end was 2:51 and an average speed of 31.83km/h. The route was great and weather was perfect, It was the first road race since the Emperors palace classic in early February. (I won't count the Argus because I rode it as a social ride very slowly at the back), so it was a shock to my system. People that tell you that Mountain biking will make you strong for Road racing are right...but strong doesn't always mean fast. I realised that my legs are not used to turning a big 52 tooth chainring. I felt in this race it was my legs that went bust, not my heart and lungs!

I did see some photographers enroute, so I will post a pic or two once I have them.

The next event is most likely Campus to Campus at the end of the month.

Nandos Magalies

2009-08-26T08:40:00.002+02:00

Wassup? Was stoked to finish the Nandos 3 days MTB stage race in 27th overall and top 10 in the Vets category, not gonna talk too much about it now but once i got my photos sorted, I'll update...laterz!

Nissan Diamond Rush 60km - Cullinan

2009-07-20T10:19:00.004+02:00

I hooked up with the Midrand Country cyclists to go through to the 2nd of the Nissan series MTB races in Cullinan. Before we had even left Midrand, one guys bike had already fallen off the bike rack and stolen...the same vehicle had a puncture 5 km later. Sometimes its best to know when to go home. I felt really sorry for them cause as it turned out...it was an awesome route.

The course had a very good mix of single track, narrow technical wooden bridges, steep rocky downhills and a solid climb 5km from the end. I got to about 45-50km and that was me...history. Up until then I was pushing very hard but just didn't have the legs to go the distance. I finished in a time of 03:09 and an average speed of 19.01km/h. I finished in the top half of the field, which is often my aim at 142 out of 440 and 34th of 98 in my age catagory (Vet M).

So why did I lose the plot and not go the distance, I ask myself...and here are some possible scenarios:

1) Havent been doing long enough rides on the weekends. The average time and distance is 2:45 and 60-80km (mostly on the road bike)
2) Still tired from Cape town trip and Knysna effort.
3) Still weigh 76kg and think i am lighter than i am :-) or
4) This is the one that scares me the most...could the problems that I experienced with my Iliac artery and subsequent anglioplasy be coming back...I seriously hope not cause that would spell the end of the road...or a very expensive procedure!

Anyway, I wont think about that now, I'll eliminate all the rest and see how it goes!

Photo courtesy of http://www.mihevents.co.za/.

Knysna 85km MTB annihilation

2009-07-12T18:34:00.001+02:00

After a rushed and tiring week, working and visiting friends and family in CPT, we headed out to Knysna for the annual PnPay rotary Knysna cycle tour. I had entered the 85km Mountain bike event. When I entered I must have been suffering from delusions of grandeur, (a delusion that you are much greater and more powerful and influential than you really are), because I entered with the registered CR group. It was encouraging to be sitting on the start line with the likes of Burry Stander and Kevin Evans and I had convinced myself that I would at least stay with this group over the first half an hour. We headed out in perfect conditions and by the time we had left Knysna and hit the dirt road, I was in trouble, heartrate redlining, lungs exploding and legs feeling like two limp pieces of overcooked fettucini...and we were still in the neutral zone. The lead out vehicles pulled off and I was dropped like a ton of bricks. I tried my best to go faster and it felt like the whole race overtook me. It was then that I realised that the late night "40th" birthday celebrations at "LaMed" blended with a healthy dose of very colorful drinks, might be part to blame.

After 35km of humiliation and pain, I made peace with the fact that I was in no state to race and I symobolically stopped (in the middle of nowhere), chowed an expensice Power Bar (Vanilla), took in some scenery, told a grandad with a funny helmet that I was ok, climbed back on my bike and slowly finished the race.

My final time was 4:28 with an average speed of 18km/h. My starting companions, Burry and Kevin managed a brisk 2:47 with an average speed of 30km/h.

I might have some work to do.

Nissan Tygervalley MTB Event

2009-06-21T10:29:00.002+02:00

The event was very well run and very well attended. The weather was perfect, and although there was a slightly delayed start, due to to late entrants, the race kicked off without a hassle. The course was a 60km mix of dirt roads, cool singletrack through forests and farms, some bumpy rutted uphill sections and some fast flowing downhill sections. There were sufficient water points that looked well run, although I didn't stop at any. I rode with 2 bottles, a powerbar and a GU, which was plenty. My bike went like a dream although the EPIC light lube that I was using doesn't go the distance and I could have done with a re-lube at about 45km, I pushed on till the end with a few creaks and groans. My new full finger gloves worked like a dream and definitely give you a better sense of grip and protection. regarding that, its simple, I'll never use open finger gloves in a MTb race again...nuff said!

The only dissapointment regarding this race is the results. A large number of entrants got a DNF, even though they finished fine. The timing was done by spectrum Sport, which uses RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology. Scanners are then placed overhead or on the sides of the finish line or held by individuals depending on where the tags are positioned on the athlete/bike. In our case the tags are stickers which are attached to the race number boards. I don't know why so many entrants got a DNF, perhaps some of those number boards are a bit tired!

Despite that, if I look at some results of friends that were before and after me, I can guess that my time was about 2:40 which would put me about 28th of about 100 Vets (age 40 -49) with an average speed of 22.38km/h. The winning time was 1:55 with an average speed of 31.27. The results were:

PhilipBuys Senior

Ben Melt Swanepoel

Francois Theron

How the Hell do they do that?

Hopefully SS timing will sort out the mistakes. Overall a good indication of my fitness. The course was not too hilly so the race in Knysna in 2 weeks time is going to be a differnt kettle of fish completely.

Laterz!

MTBing with 10 sexy fingers

2009-06-18T14:32:00.003+02:00

I've just bought myself some PRO (as in http://www.pro-bikegear.com/) full fingered summer mountain biking gloves. They are advertised as summer gloves, but will keep you warm enough on a South African winter ride. I have been using open finger gloves since I started riding, but recently bought some winter full gloves for the road bike. I like the way they feel so I decided to go shopping for some new full finger mountain biking gloves. I checked out a variety of brands, including some very cheap, and then some very expensive ones. I settled on the PRO Dart full-finger MTB glove as below.

They feel very comfortable and I am looking forward to racing with them on Saturday at the Nissan MTB series in Tygervalley.

I'll post some feedback after the race.

Chicken but not chicken

2009-06-15T16:26:00.002+02:00

Ok so I still have to go back to the dentist for root canal chapter 2. What prevents me from going? Is it that it feels ok now, or is it that I am so chicken of the dentist that i am prepared to live with the sharp gaping hole that cuts into my cheek and forces me to use a toothpick everytime a morsel passes my lips. Or is it because life is so busy and I just haven't had time? Not too sure but either way, it hasn't been done and I don't know when it will be done either.

On a "not so chicken" note, I have entered 2 cool MTB events, the first one being the NISSAN Tygervalley 65km endurance race on Sat 20th. This is part of a 5 race series that will count as a Official Gauteng provincial marathon series, all points and results will go towards provincial points, which is pretty cool. i am thinking of commiting to doing all 5 of them.

Then on 4th July is the 85KM Knysna MTB race which I have entered. I want to go hard on this one in preperation for the Nandos Magalies 3 day MTB race in August.

I have been diligently training 4 times a week, easy on Mondays and Fridays, Hard intervals on Wednesdays and a long 3-4 hour ride on Saturdays. The consistency is paying off and if I can lose about 4kg before August, I'll be good.

I'm phsyced to ride at the moment which is a good sign.

Root Canal is a poor excuse

2009-04-21T18:26:00.006+02:00

Today I went to the dentist...and began phase one of Root Canal on the top right. A big temporary filling and next week, the actual procedure. So I didn't ride today, I imagined the jolting of the mountain bike to be too much.

Root canal procedure: unhealthy tooth, drilling, filing with endofile, rubber filling and crown.

Such Fun!

70km's with Bacon and Egg

2009-04-18T19:53:00.002+02:00

I rode 70km with the Midrand MTB guys this morning, we rode with the "B" group, not the "A" group, although I'm sure we will be riding with the "A" guys in about 3 weeks time. A great ride from Carswald out to Henops and back followed by a Mugg n Bean Bacon and Eggs, perfect weather and a good bunch of guys. I rode past Andrews house, I thought about you lots today bud and especially missed you on the ride today.

Rest now, Swim on monday then on Tuesday, the intervals begin.

Swimming again

2009-04-15T15:31:00.002+02:00

I'm really enjoying swimming in the mornings, 3 weeks ago I battled to do 15 lengths in 30 minutes, today I did 42 lengths in 30 minutes. I start with 2 x breastroke, then 4 sets of 2 x 25m freestyle. Once I have warmed up I do 2 x 25m breastroke, rest, 4 x 25m freestyle, rest, 2 x 25m freestyle, rest and then a final 2 x 25m of freestyle. The last 2 of the 10 length set, I try to do faster than the previous. I do 3 more sets like this to total 40 lengths in 30 minutes.

Getting there slowly.

Argus 2009

2009-04-11T00:38:00.004+02:00

They say that this is the toughest Argus ever. I decided to ride in a slower group with a friend and even though it was very windy, I had loads of Fun.

Here is a video clip of the 2009 Argus.

Nandos Magalies MTB Adventure

2009-04-09T11:10:00.003+02:00

I have entered the Magalies Adventure (http://www.magaliesadventure.co.za/) which is on 14th, 15th and 16th August. I have entred with Sean Kristoffer as my partner. Sean has done loads of Mountain bike racing, including 3 x cape-epic's. The event is at Van Gaalen's Cheese Farm, Skeerpoort River, North West Province. It is a 3 stage event as follows:

Stage 1: 25km (night race)

Stage 2:75km

Stage 3:45km

So although it is not a Cape Epic, I'm sure Sean will be pushing me to my limits.

I have started swimming 3 times a weeks at the Gym just to build some upper body strength and also strengthen my shoulder. I broke my collar bone 4 years ago and it still gives me some pain. So far I am only doing about 40 x 25m lengths (1km) in half an hour, but hope to get to the stage where I can swim for 30 mins without stopping so much. At the moment I am resting quite a lot.

I am planning on using April and May to build a good solid base, then in June do a couple of events to get into race mode. July will be pure race training and then hope to be ready to fly in August.

One of the key things is weight, I am still weighing about 75kg and aim to drop to 70kg by June.

I got some cool pics back from the Sabie event, heres one of my favourites.

Carnival City Macsteel National Classic

2009-02-25T21:23:00.003+02:00

I decided to do a couple of Road races before the Argus cycle Tour on the 8th March, and this was 2nd of two that I chose. The first was the Emperors Palace classic (99km) and this one was 100km. My results were pretty similar in both races, got dropped from the AL group at about 50km and spent the last 50 either with small splinter groups or on my own. My finish time was 2:43 with an average speed of 36.86km/h. So why couldn't I stay with the A group to the end? I'm fat, thats why. My BMI (Body Mass Index) is 24.82 which still falls into the "normal" zone, but for racing bicycles it is too high. I have always raced best at about 70kg, so I am 6kg too heavy. Ideal cycle racing BMI is closer to 19. I am losing load of power due to this and I know that if I can lose 5-7 kg, I'll be clocking some much better times.

Now where did I stash that chocolate?

SABIEXPERIENCE Day 1 and 2

2009-02-07T17:47:00.004+02:00

Ok, I deleted the previous post which was day 1 of the Sabiexperience Mountain bike race and have now posted this video which included day 1 & 2. It was so muddy on day 3 and 4 that we had to put the camera away, so we dont have any footage of that. Only photos. A huuuge thanks to my brother-in-law and partner in this race, who mounted a camera on his helmet and although we got some funny looks, we also got some good video. Thanks Bru!

Enjoy the Video.

Marishka Hargitay!

2009-01-24T21:47:00.005+02:00

There are 2 types of people in this world, those that love Mike Myers movies, and those that...no wait, there are three types of people in this world, those that love Mike Myers movies, those that hate Mike Myers movies and those that really want to like them, but just don't get it!

If you fit into the first category but have yet to see "The Love Guru", then do yourself a huge favour, go rent it from Mr video and watch it asap!

I fall into the category of those that have always loved Mike Myers movies and, yes Wayne's World will always be my favourite but man, I laughed in this one. Is it corny? YES, Is it below the belt? ABSOLUTELY, Is it clever? HELL YEAH, Is it classic Mike Myers? OF COURSE! With lines like "If your Uncle Jack helped you off an elephant, would you help your Uncle jack off an elephant?" and "Lets make like a baby and Head Out" you gotta believe that this is Mike Myers at his worst, and for me thats the best! This is a rotten tomato and I loved it!

This movie got sooo many bad reviews but when I read them, I realised something, the people that gave this movie bad reviews just don't get it. Its meant to be bad people, its really meant to be over the top and yes, if you didn't appreciate Wayne Campbell you certainly won't like Guru Pitka!

Be warned, this movie is a contender for "Worst Movie Ever Made" with so many bad reviews. however, people like Mike Myers do this their whole life, hoping to reach a small portion of us - the ones writing the reviews are sadly not in that portion.

There is funny and there is "give in to it" funny, do yourself a favour, shed your bogus pre-eminence and take an electric carpet ride with Guru Pitka and remember, thats G-U-R-U, as in GEE, YOU ARE YOU!

Marishka Hargitay!

Argus CycleTour seeding

2009-01-23T19:34:00.002+02:00

I have been seeded to start in the "C" group in the Argus, the last time I started in this group, I got blown off the back at Chappies. I am in two minds about wether to start in this group or drop back to "D" or "E", but there is still some time before the race and I will have a better idea of my fitness by then.

By the way, I am in the process of batch converting a whole lot of videos to import them and edit them, so hopefully soon I will have some good clips to post here of the Sabie Experience Mountain bike stage race.

Till later...

Fame and everything that goes with it...

2009-01-21T21:52:00.002+02:00

I have 3 followers of my blog, how sad is that? And now one of my followers isn't even listing my blog as one that they follow, you know who you are (it can only be 1 of the 3). I need to go on a drive to accomplish two things:

1) Spice up my blog and start talking about things that actually interest others or...
2) Go on a desperate marketing campaign and try to rally some support from like minded bloggers who think it is cool to leave comments on my everyday mutterings.

Either way, it pretty dismal that the only 3 followers I have are a buddy from, like, over 10 years ago, another buddys wife... and a distant relative from Oz...

Sure, I understand that most of the people I have invited to read my blog are not too IT savy, but c'mon people, I need some hits!

Maybe I'm just feeling sorry for myself, whatever!

4 8 15 16 23 42

2009-01-19T20:43:00.004+02:00

Do these numbers mean anything to you? Does the name Jeremy Bentham ring a bell? How about Benjamin Linus, Richard Alpert or Charles Widmore? Have you ever heard of The Swan, The Pearl or The Orchid? Does the "Black Rock" give you the shivers and the name "Jacob" leave you in a cold sweat?

If you have answered no to these questions, then read no further!

However, if you answered yes to all of the above questions then read on, and remember, everything happens for a reason!

Season 5 of Lost starts in the US tomorrow, and thanks to DSL and a nice internet cap, I will be following very close behind. In a recent trailer found on YouTube, I noticed John Locke standing in what seems to be a barren part of the island, shouting, "Is anyone there? Anyone?" If you remember how season 4 ended with the island disappearing, then this is a very interesting scene. Also you see Ben saying to Jack that everyone has to go back, the island wont let you come alone...hence Season 5 is mainly about why they (Oceanic 6) have to get back. After 84 episodes since Season 1, I still have sooo many unanswered questions and I guess that Season 5 will answer some more. I suppose it is the intrigue that keeps me coming back for more. Nothing beats LOST, it is my all time favourite TV series without a shadow of doubt!

Wednesday's episode is called " Because you Left" and the next two will be "The Lie" (sounds very interesting) and the 3rd episode is "Jughead"

If you are not a Lostie, sorry for you!

Some more Sabie MTB pics

2009-01-11T20:29:00.024+02:00

Here are some more pictures from the Sabiexperience, mainly day 2.

We use milking cream to lube up and protect the undercarriage. Sit on a bike for 6 hours, 4 days in a row and you will understand! Its pure Lanolin :-)

Riding higher and higher, up into the clouds.

The start of day 2, looking over our shoulders, it was incredible how many people started behind us.

The race shirts were cool this year.

Calm before the storm.

More uphill please!

A rest, a leak, fuel up and off you go again!

Sabie is a race with lots off climbing, if you enter, don't say I didn't warn ya! Till next time!

Courteney in the News

2009-01-08T21:13:00.003+02:00

Surprise, surprise, Courteney was in the Edenvale/Bedfordview news. Oh by the way, that bear she is holding is "Sid" named after the sloth in Ice Age. From the back he looks exactly like Sid the sloth.

Talking of Ice Age, have you seen the trailer for Ice age 3, brilliant, can't wait!

Holiday in Port Edward

2009-01-06T21:16:00.013+02:00

We are back from a 2 week holiday in Port Edward, for the sake of my Oz connections, its on the south coast of Kwa-Zulu Natal, on the border of the Eastern Cape. We stayed at a place called Clearwater Trails, overlooking the Umtamvuma River Gorge and Nature Reserve which boasts some of the most exciting marked and guided mountain bike trails in South Africa. Its also about 10 minutes from some cool beaches.

We had plenty of rain and although I was really hoping for hot, sunny beach days, we made the most of it. Merril, Guy, Jordyn and guys brother, Tal, joined us. The views from our cabins were breathtaking and a 1 minute walk took us right to the edge, overlooking the gorge. We spent loads of time eating out and drinking gallons of coffee (Clearwater is next door to Beaver Creek coffee plantation) as the weather wasn't too good. The family had a great Christmas and the girls had a wonderful time. Courteney got sick with a terrible cough and at one stage her temperature was so high, we had to take her to the Margate private hospital. We also discovered an awesome little coffee shop at the base of the Port Edward Lighthouse which served the best cuppucinos in town. We all climbed to the top of the lighthouse to be spoiled with great views of Port Edward. We hooked up with our good friends, the Bushes from Cape Town which was really cool. We also went to the swinging bridge at Oribi gorge and had lots of fun with the girls making our way nervously across the bridge. It was very misty on the day and the scene was like something out of an Indiana Jones movie. We took the girls to the supertube on Port Edward main beach, I mean, what is a Natal holiday without a Supertube when you are a kid. The girls had an absolute blast and so as expected they were too tired to stay awake and see the new year in that night. Me and Guy went down to the beach and let off a whole lot off fireworks just before midnight which was really cool. The New Year came and went with not to much fuss. The last few days of our holiday were spent eating, drinking more cofee and eating some more. I now have to lose the 2kg I put on over Christmas. All in all a rainy, but fun holiday and some really good times for the memory banks. I tried my hand at fishing, once at the Port Edward estuary and once at the Umzimkulu River mouth but only caught three little things that were no bigger than 20cm so I put them back. I also managed to catch some waves on the bodyboardwhich was fun. (note to self: In the new year buy a cool bodyboard and make some trips to durbs to catch some waves, its such fun). Jeanne Marie and I are now both back at work. I am back in the office physically, I am just waiting for my mind to join in, it seems to still be on the beach somewhere.

What an Experience! Good-bye Sabie.

2008-12-18T11:23:00.000+02:00

When we headed out on a sunny stage 1 of the 2008 SabiExperience MTB race, who would ever know what the next 4 days would bring. As you have seen in prevoius posts, the race consisted of plenty of climbing and by the end of stage 2, although tired, we were satisfied and happy with our overall position. Little did we know that the next two days were going to be wet and wild with arguably some of the toughest mountain biking we have ever done. We were feeling strong and confident as we headed out on day 3, it was new to us as we hadn't ridden this stage ever before as we missed it on the pre-ride in Oct. After 10 minutes of riding, it kicked up and we started climbing the first of the two big climbs of the day.

As you can see in the photo, it was cloudy at the start, but within the first 20km it started raining and within 10 minutes, we were soaked. I don't mind riding in the rain at all, so we just put our heads down and carried on. As we climbed higher and higher though, the rain continued and conditions got worse and by the 30km mark, it was muddy, slippery and just plain messy! We pushed on through the muck and at some point were riding knee-deep through muddy water. We finished the stage tired, but happy and although our bikes took a beating, we were satisfied with our day. Here is a photo of us at the end of stage -3, I don't think our kit will ever look the same!

The ending of each stage was good fun with your names being announced to everyone as you crossed the finish line. We were welcomed by our wives and children who were taking shelter from the rain in nearby padocks.

The next stage was a team time trial of 27km's. Compared to the first 3 days of 75km's, this last stage was supposed to be fast and over within 1 hour. The conditions were so bad, the rain had caused so much mud and due to the fact that the slowest teams started first in the time trial, that mud was churned up into a sticky mess by the time we started. Once again, I have never raced through so much mud. We ended stage 4 wet and dirty again but extremely happy to have finished the 2008 edition of the SabiExperience. We came 59 out of 189 in our age category and 136 out of 451 overall.

It is hard to believe how many guys pulled out and didn't attempt the last day, whussies! I will post some video in the upcoming weeks but for now its off to Port Edward for a well deserved break!

Mud pies and red eyes

2008-12-16T15:05:00.001+02:00

Another quick post from my cell phone from Sabie. After 4 days of tough racing we are finished. The last 2 days were very wet and muddy, it is fair to say that the Sabie Experience rates as the toughest, yet satisfying multi-stage mountain bike race I have done, loads of climbing and tough riding, my legs are trashed. More to follow when I get back home, chow for now!

News from Sabie

2008-12-14T20:28:00.000+02:00

Ok, a quick post from Sabie from my cell. Race going well, awesome event, lying 59th of 155 in age category, all is well, cheers

Sabiexperience here we come!

2008-12-11T21:49:00.000+02:00

I'm finally on leave! What a tough but satisfying year this has been, but I think I will save a special New Years eve post for that topic!

For now its off to Mpumalanga, specifically Sabie, for the Sabie Experience Mountain Bike race. We drive through tomorrow and set up camp at Merry Pebbles, then on Saturday morning 700 riders set off for 4 days of tough racing. The first stage (sat) is 77km with 1750m of climbing, 2nd stage is also 77km with 1900m of climbing, the 3rd stage is 70km with 1650m of climbing and finally we end on Tuesday with a short 26km team time trial. The 3 big days are typically 6 hours on the bike over rocky sand roads, rutted jeep tracks, steep twisty single track and long fast downhills too. Have a look at the profiles of each stage:

You have to ride in teams of 2, i am doing it with my Brother in law - Andrew Mills. Wish us luck, I'll soon have loads of pics and vids to post to give you an idea of how it was!!

More info on the event, results etc is at:
http://www.sabiexperience.co.za/index.php

Laterz!

2008-12-08T16:26:00.000+02:00

The life of thousands of tiny little silkworms is in my hands!

We have eggs if you want, lots! A couple of months ago Caitlyn came home with about 15 middle aged silkworms. She had to beg us to get them and we finally gave in, now after an almost complete lifecycle, metamorphorsis and all, I'm too attached to part with my tiny oval friends! Why? Because I have been the one feeding, feeding, feeding and feeding them. Now that they have gone through the moth stage, no more feeding! I've learnt loads about silkworms over the last while, I'm almost ready to start my own silk emporium. I have a contact at the Oriental Plaza, who tells me that I need 1000 cocoons to make one silk shirt. Ok, my contact is a fireworks dealer, so what he says is taken with a pinch of curry powder, I've no intentions of making silk products. i'm going to put all these aggs in the fridge and make a "killing" next season (heh,heh).

Almost Holidays!

2008-12-07T20:50:00.000+02:00

Why is it that the last couple of weeks before holidays are always so hectic?

I suppose we are all desperate for a holiday and rest, rest and more rest! I have been flooded with school events, last minute business trips and every time I get close to clearing my desk, something else comes up. I guess this last week is going to be a typically bumpy approach to the holiday, so time to buckle the seatbelts, trays away, seats upright...We're a comin' in to land!

Classic Caitlyn at a braai at the farm, those eyes!
Me and my nephew, Joshua, "Howzit China!"
Courteney at the St Andrews Carols by Candlelight

Lost - Kate is on the run again

2008-12-07T19:53:00.000+02:00

Check out the sneak preview of Season 5 of LOST, looks like Kate is on the run again. What do you think? http://www.lostreview.com/2008/12/lost-season-5-sneak-peak.cfm

Lost Season 5

2008-11-24T23:29:00.000+02:00

Not long to wait now, Lost sason 5 starts in the US on 21st Jan 2009. According to Lost's co-creator Damon Lindelof, the season "is about why the [people who have left the island] need to get back". While the island stories of episodes of prior seasons were intercut with flashbacks or flashforwards of a featured character, the fifth season will be presented differently with part of each episode taking place off the island and the other part following characters on the island in a different time. Lost is scheduled to return with a three-hour premiere consisting of a clip-show and two back-to-back new episodes.

94.7 Cycle Challenge

2008-11-24T12:08:00.000+02:00

I entered the 94.7 cycle challenge with my brother in law Andrew and we started from the WW group, 4 groups from the back. For those that don't know, the 94.7 Cycle Challenge is JHB's equivalent of the Cape Argus Cycle tour, and attract roughly 25,000 cyclists, from the pros to the beginners and everyone in between. It winds its way from Woodmead, into the City, then back out to the Lion Park and ends just past Kyalami back in Woodmead. I decided to ride it for fun with Andrew from the "WW" group and not start from the "D" group in which I had been seeded, so that we could both have fun and enjoy the race together. We finished the ride in 3hrs,22 mins with an average speed of 28km/h. We were happy with the time because we did it on our mountain bikes with knobbly tires and all. We passed so many people and ended up 18th and 19th of 276 riders in our group, our overall position was 6741 of 16960 cyclists. Check out the little video clip that Andrew made of the day.

Formula 1 Fun in Brazil

2008-11-24T07:51:00.000+02:00

I was lucky enough to go on a work sales incentive trip to the Brazilian Formula 1 Grand Prix. A quick 5 days, which left me tired, but happy. I had lost interest in F1 over the last few years but going on this trip has rejuvinated that interest, roll on 2009! It was great to watch Filipe Massa win in his own country and come so close to winning the championship overall, only to lose it to Lewis Hamilton on the last lap. It was such a close race, Masse was champion when went over the line, Hamilton was champion when he went over. Being amongst the locals on a massive grand stand, in the thick of a Brazilian victory is really an awesome experience, pity I couldn't understand the commentry. Felipe Massa and Kimi Raikonnen stay with Ferrari for next year, I think Massa will be the team leader!

My very first Blog post - Ever!

2008-11-20T17:15:00.000+02:00

So here we go, the first post to my new blog, where friends and family can get a little peek into the thoughts, ideas and life of the crazy Webb family. For example, right now I am sitting with 2 empty (sigh) cups of coffee and a finished chocolate muffin wrapper, listening to my daughters cd player at full volume playing something from either Jonas Bros, Camp Rock or one of those "all sound the same" Disney cd's. No, I actually enoy it, listen to anything often enough and you'll be conditioned into enjoying it. Anyway, seeing that this is actually a bit of a test post, I'm gonna hit the post button now to see how it come out... well please check back here soon for pics of the F1 GP in Brazil, Cycling events, Family photos and whatever I decide to post...and hey, please post stuff too! For Now its Hasta-La-Vista!