We met at the flagpole and the benefits of being a registered club are paying off. AARO has introduced numerous students to the club, and a new recruit showed up tonight. As we made our introductions, the new student, Dallas Blagg, described how he had heard about the club,and what he had been doing (bike commuting in Switzerland to his dance gigs.) Turns out he is an incoming Meadows Division of Dance student. I asked him, "Did you loose an iPhone recently?" He was shocked but pleased it had shown up. It had taken me a moment to piece the clues together, but Debbie Barr from the Dance Division found this iPhone in a studio, and after some detective work determined it belonged to Dallas (but we did not know he was an incoming student.) It was his recent Swiss residency, not his name that finally clicked for me! I had it in my desk with his name on it, but I said he would have to buy a SMU jersey as reward!
With Dallas (named after a county in Iowa and a third generation male to be named "Dallas") we had Caryn, Michael, Kevin, Kurt and myself, meeting Tony at the lake. Kevin and Mike had last seen each other at RAGBRAI, and it was evident that Mike had used those extensive miles to the good, since he seemed pretty strong (wheelsucking smartly and embarrassing me in the sprint) and Kurt seems to be warming to group riding. Caryn had to ride her TT bike since she has had an epidemic of flats on her Bianchi (and the Trek is waiting for ceramic bearings) She is reminded how AL hurts, C comfortable. Kevin was showing off his RAGBRAI jersey, and said RAGBRAI is something everyone has to do (seems a bit freddy, but the parties can be epic)
At the watering hole we regrouped and had a enjoyable post ride conversation and we are looking foward to when the students return.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Friday, July 31, 2009
SMU Cycling at www.ponyfans.com
Join the SMU Cycling group at www.ponyfans.com
Our club President, Noah Buck set this up. Another venue for SMU Cycling!
Our club President, Noah Buck set this up. Another venue for SMU Cycling!
Friday, July 24, 2009
Slow day......
While browsing the internet, I came upon this site: http://www.happiness-project.com/happiness_project/. I think it's super neat and a bit inspiring. I'm a big geek when it comes to self-improvement so I might see if I can't incorporate some of these 'suggestions' into my own life and find my own 'happy'.
I didn't bring my camera to work to upload photos, so you'll have to wait another couple days before some vacation photos get posted. Too bad for you.
Possibly an update a later point today. Morning ride tomorrow- getting pumped for it. Speaking of, had to get a new spacer put on my cassette- my poor bike! Everything seems to be finiky lately. Such is life.
Pedal on, my friends!
I didn't bring my camera to work to upload photos, so you'll have to wait another couple days before some vacation photos get posted. Too bad for you.
Possibly an update a later point today. Morning ride tomorrow- getting pumped for it. Speaking of, had to get a new spacer put on my cassette- my poor bike! Everything seems to be finiky lately. Such is life.
Pedal on, my friends!
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Hail and angry motorist (A Texas Refrain)
Again, we were caught unaware regarding the crazy weather that hit in the afternoon.
It was so threatening that Michael even took off for home. Kurt, Caryn and I decided to ride despite the build up of clouds to the east. We were able to ride a mile away before the rain started to batter us and we found shelter under a car port at an apartment complex on University.
As we stood under it, the cacophany of the sound of rain and hail on the metal roof was shocking. The temperature dropped 20 degrees F and the hail approached marble size. As we stood there marveling at the sudden change, a pick up pulled up and aimed directly for us and appeared that it wouldn't stop. I yelled at Caryn to move and the driver then pulled in. His first words were "I live here and I pay for this spot!" Odd first words, so I asked him "What?" and he became confrontational, suggesting were were unwelcome and a nuisance. I asked if he saw us and he said, "of course" suggesting we had violated his property and were trespassing. He acted threatening, but readily appeared to be vain and self centered and I had to laugh at his suggestion of threatening behaviour, i.e "Are you scared?" but in reality he was hiding behind his pick up, a pervasive symbol of insecurity in these parts, and he was a classic example of someone trying to project alpha male masculinity but the reality was an insecurity complex hiding behind the F150. All I responded to his belligerence was that he was "inhospitable"
We had a light tempo ride that really showed how strong Kurt can be. He just needs to learn how to ride on a wheel rather than 10 feet back. I followed a GS Tensing guy up Loving and he was very secure in his fitness, for he just spun up at a very even tempo with no insecurity that I was right behind him. I didn't pass him since it would be arrogant to suggest I beat him when he was just riding tempo. I could tell by our conversation that he was fitter than me as I had to struggle to make some small talk about the weather and he was unwinded.
We rode back to the house to find our cars had been pelted by the hail and were dented. We have gone online to find hail damage repair tips. Any suggestions where to find dry ice?
H
It was so threatening that Michael even took off for home. Kurt, Caryn and I decided to ride despite the build up of clouds to the east. We were able to ride a mile away before the rain started to batter us and we found shelter under a car port at an apartment complex on University.
As we stood under it, the cacophany of the sound of rain and hail on the metal roof was shocking. The temperature dropped 20 degrees F and the hail approached marble size. As we stood there marveling at the sudden change, a pick up pulled up and aimed directly for us and appeared that it wouldn't stop. I yelled at Caryn to move and the driver then pulled in. His first words were "I live here and I pay for this spot!" Odd first words, so I asked him "What?" and he became confrontational, suggesting were were unwelcome and a nuisance. I asked if he saw us and he said, "of course" suggesting we had violated his property and were trespassing. He acted threatening, but readily appeared to be vain and self centered and I had to laugh at his suggestion of threatening behaviour, i.e "Are you scared?" but in reality he was hiding behind his pick up, a pervasive symbol of insecurity in these parts, and he was a classic example of someone trying to project alpha male masculinity but the reality was an insecurity complex hiding behind the F150. All I responded to his belligerence was that he was "inhospitable"
We had a light tempo ride that really showed how strong Kurt can be. He just needs to learn how to ride on a wheel rather than 10 feet back. I followed a GS Tensing guy up Loving and he was very secure in his fitness, for he just spun up at a very even tempo with no insecurity that I was right behind him. I didn't pass him since it would be arrogant to suggest I beat him when he was just riding tempo. I could tell by our conversation that he was fitter than me as I had to struggle to make some small talk about the weather and he was unwinded.
We rode back to the house to find our cars had been pelted by the hail and were dented. We have gone online to find hail damage repair tips. Any suggestions where to find dry ice?
H
Thursday, July 2, 2009
July 3rd ride
All,
Count tomorrow as a recovery ride, holiday ride, whatever but I'll be leaving from the Starbucks on Forest that is adjacent to the WRL trail at 9:00 AM and head south to pick up our usual "horseshoe" loop around the lake and back up the trail again to Starbucks. My guess is that the distance will be approximately 30 miles.
Greg P. will be riding up from TeePee Hill starting at 8:15 AM to meet me at the Starbucks. He and his group may drop off when we get back around to TeePee Hill.
This accommodates those who want to start early and not so early and those who want to get a longish ride in or a short ride.
If you want to ride over with me I'll be leaving the house at 8:30 AM to have enough time to "lounge" at Starbucks, field calls, answer questions for the media etc. before we start down the trail. If you want to join me for yoga that starts at 7:00 AM and if that's too early for you to get up and ride (or drive) over you can sleep at my place (I can always use the extra money.)
Call me if you have any questions, feel free to send this to others, and I'll see you in the morning.
Ciao,
Michael V.
214-674-8978
Count tomorrow as a recovery ride, holiday ride, whatever but I'll be leaving from the Starbucks on Forest that is adjacent to the WRL trail at 9:00 AM and head south to pick up our usual "horseshoe" loop around the lake and back up the trail again to Starbucks. My guess is that the distance will be approximately 30 miles.
Greg P. will be riding up from TeePee Hill starting at 8:15 AM to meet me at the Starbucks. He and his group may drop off when we get back around to TeePee Hill.
This accommodates those who want to start early and not so early and those who want to get a longish ride in or a short ride.
If you want to ride over with me I'll be leaving the house at 8:30 AM to have enough time to "lounge" at Starbucks, field calls, answer questions for the media etc. before we start down the trail. If you want to join me for yoga that starts at 7:00 AM and if that's too early for you to get up and ride (or drive) over you can sleep at my place (I can always use the extra money.)
Call me if you have any questions, feel free to send this to others, and I'll see you in the morning.
Ciao,
Michael V.
214-674-8978
Thursday, June 25, 2009
The Hills are ...... HUGE!
Well y'all - Texas certainly is flat! I say that with love, and with a bit of soreness in my legs from last night's ride. The ladies and I did what is fondly called the "saddle" - a 35 mile jaunt that includes tons of rollers and very "nice" mile and a half 6-8% climb. We started from the usual Van Buren bridge local, took the bike path out of town, and headed north. The wind was a bit tough to deal with but we soon got out into the rural roads, flats and rollers, that allowed for a good double pace line. We made a turn (somewhere because I was thoroughly confused on where I was) and soon enough had an awesome tailwind pushing us around 25! When we got to the hill, we re-grouped before starting the ascent. As I began going up hill, it actually was a bit easier that I had psyched myself up for. The hill is fairly smooth in its ascent - no up and then flat or really sharp turns. The only downer is that the bike lane is non existant so there was some traffic to deal with. And what will make me do that all over again is the thrill of the descent down!! Once I get really comfortable with the turns, I think I'll be able to really enjoy it but I found my brakes once or twice to make sure I wasn't going to wipe out. 35 mph on a bike is such a rush! The rest of the ride went well and the weather held up til I was basically back at the apartment. The temp dropped a few degrees but was definitely still bearable.
I hope that I feel that well for all the rides. Hoping to start some longer ones soon and maybe venturing into the dirt (finally!)
Until next time; pedal on, my friends.
I hope that I feel that well for all the rides. Hoping to start some longer ones soon and maybe venturing into the dirt (finally!)
Until next time; pedal on, my friends.
Friday, June 19, 2009
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Wednesday Ride Report: A view from behind.... in OR
Live from OR: The Wednesday Night Ride Report. I've met up with a group of cyclists on the Willammette Valley Cycling Team who ride on Wed. evenings. Last night, we had 5 ladies. Based on upcoming events for others and some lagging injuries/back on the bike for the first time in awhile feelings, we did a flat, shorter route from Corvallis to Peoria and back. A nice jaunt that helped to stretch my super sore legs with a chance for some conversations. The weather has been absolutely glorious - somewhat over cast at times but no wet! I plan on keeping this ride up throughout the summer.
Pedal on, friends!
Pedal on, friends!
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
New SMU Cycling Kit is in the house!!
Feast your eyes, my fellow Mustang cyclists, on the new SMU Cycling Club jersey! Information about how to purchase, cost, etc, will be forthcoming!
Thursday, June 11, 2009
The View from behind.... coming to you live in OR!
Well Scot and the crew's ride on Wednesday was, believe or not, much wetter than mine! I have to say, Oregon has treated me quite nicely thus far - although we got the monsoon rains last Friday---(you guys should call - i can give you a better farecast!). So I'm still feeling my way around the TONS of bike paths and routes that Corvallis has to offer the bicyclist (not including all the off-road ones!). Yesterday, I decided to show some solidarity to the Dallas group and headed out for a ride. As I was coming up to a street crossing, a group of ladies passed in the opposite direction and yelled for me to "join us!" ... so, I did! Little did I know I was going to hunker down for a 'easy' ride with some of the great ladies of the Willamette Valley Cycling Team. They kicked my butt!! Yet, were very supportive of my slow "Dallas legs" up the hills (which apparently aren't even the hills around here! -- Loving ain't nothin' guys!) So, a nice "thanks again" to you ladies for a great cycling welcome to Corvallis.
Sturm und Drang on a Wednesday ride
The last weather forecast I saw was the evening before our ride(which in Texas meterological scale, might as well have been written in cuneiform for how current that forecast was!) and I was not expecting anything more than brief and spotty rain showers. Caryn, Michael, Kevin and (appearing with us for the second time) Josh Cohen must have read that same Sumerian tablet since we all show up expecting a good ride.
Kevin made it back after a few weeks absence. He has been in Beijing with his family. He said it was unbelievable how bad the air was, yet the Chinese were so very gracious it is hard to say anything negative about the trip. He did mention eating a few things that would make Andrew Zimmern squirm.
We make it to the lake with the sun hiding behind a few clouds, but as we do our first sprint to Mockingbird (on Lawther) the sun disappears from view (and hasn't been seen since.) It wasn't yet ominous enough to preclude doing the full loop (the horseshoe) so of we go to do the Muur de Flagpole (the park had a crit race in the Tour of Texas when 7-11 and Coors Light were the domestic powers, with Inga Thompson lapping the women's field once due to the wicked little hill in the middle)
Josh hasn't ridden with us enough to know all the hot spots, but easily hung in on every surge and attack and probably wondered what all the fuss was about. We make the far turn near 635 and the clouds were getting more ominous, yet no rain could be seen from the promentories of Lake Highlands. We crossed Buckner and met up with a few other cyclists and rode tempo all the way to Loving. I was expecting these riders to challenge on the three hills, but Josh, Caryn and I dropped them really easily. When we summited I was the most out of breath, (I take them really seriously!) but gave Josh a few pointers about attacking these kinds of hills. Local familiarity with every bump and elevation change is why the Italians dominate the Giro, and can be the same for these familiar roads we ride on. Same type of hill, same type of riders but on unfamiliar roads and we might not do so well.
Kevin's Beijing smog laden lungs caused him to avoid the Loving trio, but as we rode toward the lake, the clouds were massing ominously, and then the sirens went off! We quickly decided to forego the water stop and started back toward campus. We saw a black wall cloud in front of us on Fisher Rd. and the cars that passed us would make a point to tell us to get home quickly. On University and Skillman a truck pulled up next to us and asked if we needed a ride, a tornado warning was in effect. We said thanks, but we were very close to the finish. Immediately the rain started and it was torrential, the roads flooded quickly and we met with 40-60 mph winds in our faces. I thought it felt more like a dust storm, the droplet's hurt so much on the face. Michael, on point, made the wise decision to turn into a parking garage, less than a kilometre from SMU. We witnessed horizontal sheets of rain driving through the area.
With the tornado warning fresh in the mind, I used Michael's phone to call my daughter's cell to make sure they were hunkered down in their mom's house. Katarina was very calm (unlike the cheerleader's in the camps staying in the dorms here, I can hear them screaming across the parking lot at every thunderclap!) she said the tornados were far from us (and we were overreacting!) That gave us some willingness to leave the garage after the rain let up to only a downpour.
Eventually it let up enough so that we could make it across Central, getting even more soaked, but confident we were not going to be propelled across the sky like Miss Gulch and join Dorothy in Oz.
Kevin made it back after a few weeks absence. He has been in Beijing with his family. He said it was unbelievable how bad the air was, yet the Chinese were so very gracious it is hard to say anything negative about the trip. He did mention eating a few things that would make Andrew Zimmern squirm.
We make it to the lake with the sun hiding behind a few clouds, but as we do our first sprint to Mockingbird (on Lawther) the sun disappears from view (and hasn't been seen since.) It wasn't yet ominous enough to preclude doing the full loop (the horseshoe) so of we go to do the Muur de Flagpole (the park had a crit race in the Tour of Texas when 7-11 and Coors Light were the domestic powers, with Inga Thompson lapping the women's field once due to the wicked little hill in the middle)
Josh hasn't ridden with us enough to know all the hot spots, but easily hung in on every surge and attack and probably wondered what all the fuss was about. We make the far turn near 635 and the clouds were getting more ominous, yet no rain could be seen from the promentories of Lake Highlands. We crossed Buckner and met up with a few other cyclists and rode tempo all the way to Loving. I was expecting these riders to challenge on the three hills, but Josh, Caryn and I dropped them really easily. When we summited I was the most out of breath, (I take them really seriously!) but gave Josh a few pointers about attacking these kinds of hills. Local familiarity with every bump and elevation change is why the Italians dominate the Giro, and can be the same for these familiar roads we ride on. Same type of hill, same type of riders but on unfamiliar roads and we might not do so well.
Kevin's Beijing smog laden lungs caused him to avoid the Loving trio, but as we rode toward the lake, the clouds were massing ominously, and then the sirens went off! We quickly decided to forego the water stop and started back toward campus. We saw a black wall cloud in front of us on Fisher Rd. and the cars that passed us would make a point to tell us to get home quickly. On University and Skillman a truck pulled up next to us and asked if we needed a ride, a tornado warning was in effect. We said thanks, but we were very close to the finish. Immediately the rain started and it was torrential, the roads flooded quickly and we met with 40-60 mph winds in our faces. I thought it felt more like a dust storm, the droplet's hurt so much on the face. Michael, on point, made the wise decision to turn into a parking garage, less than a kilometre from SMU. We witnessed horizontal sheets of rain driving through the area.
With the tornado warning fresh in the mind, I used Michael's phone to call my daughter's cell to make sure they were hunkered down in their mom's house. Katarina was very calm (unlike the cheerleader's in the camps staying in the dorms here, I can hear them screaming across the parking lot at every thunderclap!) she said the tornados were far from us (and we were overreacting!) That gave us some willingness to leave the garage after the rain let up to only a downpour.
Eventually it let up enough so that we could make it across Central, getting even more soaked, but confident we were not going to be propelled across the sky like Miss Gulch and join Dorothy in Oz.
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