tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73997882796230152712024-02-07T19:40:27.513-08:00ADOBO Velo NewsRide ReportsAdoboVelo Wire Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14564509633139075984noreply@blogger.comBlogger56125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399788279623015271.post-8570117803000327012011-09-12T08:48:00.000-07:002011-09-12T08:48:18.608-07:00White Mountain Double Century by Elpidio Lardizabal Sept.11,2011<div><span _yuid="yui_3_1_1_2_1315825634671485"><span style="color: #b6d7a8;">It was a challenge to everyone of us. This ride was the toughest so far that I've done, altitude wise (10,000ft)</span></span></div><div><span><span style="color: #b6d7a8;">I started with Joe at 4am with a group of 25-30 riders. Few miles away from the starting point some riders were just so anxious of breaking away.</span></span></div><div><span><span style="color: #b6d7a8;">I decided to speed up to catch those guys. Without noticing, I was by myself chasing. All I saw were lights blinking ahead of me with the distance.</span></span></div><div><span><span style="color: #b6d7a8;">I just kept on going to my speed & before sunlight I caught five guys.. now I was in the front group. </span></span></div><div><span style="color: #b6d7a8;"><span>Almost day light when we started ascending. Hours pass by without noticing... nothing to do except pedaling, watching the scenery, looking at the hills in front of me,</span><span> counting guys ahead until I was just about to run down my stamina, riders passing by one at a time.</span></span></div><div><span><span style="color: #b6d7a8;">I thought there was no end ascending & I just refused to get off my bike to get a 2nd wind before reaching the top...</span></span></div><div><span><span style="color: #b6d7a8;">Using 36x28t, I managed.. talking about torture, this was one! what a relief! Not too long at the SagStop, here comes Joe. </span></span></div><div><span><span style="color: #b6d7a8;">Descending was no problem. You could speed up to your max if you're brave enough. Joe is one of the brave guy.. he descended like no fear! Opps, not for me! he left me in minutes. I glanced him once & never see him again until the next SagStop. While descending, saw Jess/Tisoy & Louie coming up> At the SagStop, Joe got hooked up with a rider named Annie (BorregoDoubleOrganizer) & we rode together at the last ascending part of the ride. While speeding down hill, my rear tire flatted & lost them. I ended up riding by myself until I got lost. Made my way back & got to the lunch Stop (12 noon). Decided to ride by myself until some riders caught me & managed to stay with them.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #b6d7a8;"><span>This group was the same group I was with earlier at the ride. We started pace line until the last 2nd SagStop. I was getting hungry then.. had a "pepsi" then decided to eat "cantaloupe"...... wow!! 33 milesto go, I got a problem. I started getting this sour taste & everytime I drink my water <var id="yiv1092986307yui-ie-cursor"></var>I felt throwing up.. decided to take it easy. I refused to drink my water.. 18 miles to go, getting weaker & rain started pouring. Stopped to wear my wind breaker. I felt getting sick! Saw a sign 10 miles Bishop.. feeling better until another group caught me, by surprised the same group. They stopped at the last SagStop to have hot soup which I refused. </span><span>They waited for me to adopt to their pace but can't keep up with them so I let them go. At last, the city lights were here. I went straight to sign in (7:35p) & took a quick shower. I was feeling good then for a dinner after>went to Dennis with the gang.</span></span></div><div><span><span style="color: #b6d7a8;">Another memorable double for me. This was my 8th this year.</span></span></div><div _yuid="yui_3_1_1_2_1315825634671483"><span><span style="color: #b6d7a8;">Kuya el</span></span></div>AdoboVelo Wire Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14564509633139075984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399788279623015271.post-91472576014730797672011-09-12T08:37:00.000-07:002011-09-12T08:37:44.956-07:00White Mountain Double Century by Louie Rivera Sept.11,2011Fellow Adobos, WMD (white mountain double) is tough double. on paper, everything looks<br />
Doable but when you are at 8000 ft altitude and you are about to climb another 2500 ft to <br />
Reach 10,000 + ft of elevation, I questioned Myself. What were you thinking before doing<br />
This. Is there air in here. It felt that my pulse ox was only 40%. I stopped for a while pretending<br />
That I was enjoying the scenery, but it was double take for the color of my nail beds to see<br />
If they are blue now. Suddenly I hear my heart beats, not necessarily that fast but bounding<br />
Really strong, Luckily I was only a couple of 100 meters away before we head down to the check station at the end of white mountain road.<br />
<br />
OK the idea was to see this this "ancient bristle cones" trees that is about 4000 years old<br />
And some that are almost 5000 years old. That went into a flash drive in my head including<br />
A scenery upon descent, where I thought I saw switchbacks reminiscing Alp de Huez.<br />
<br />
All above action was for the first 38 miles only of our journey. El and Joe Leon were <br />
Descending from this mountain as we(Jess St Maria, Tisoy Adeva and yours truly) were<br />
Just ascending. we started 0515 and Joe and El started an hour earlier.<br />
<br />
Tisoy and Jess were at different zone. they kept waiting for me at each stop and I ended<br />
Up playing catchup. Seeing that their momentum must go on, I just told them not to wait for me anymore. We regrouped and rode together again from Boonies mile 89, where we had<br />
Our lunch to mile 143 and to my surprise I see them again at mile 163. They were having noodles. By the way along the way we had the chance to ride with TROPA guy name Ken B. From bay area But he needed more rest than we did. Back to mile mile 123, Priscila, the <br />
Wife of the organizer Jim Cook, is of Philippine decent and she was very helpful and attentive<br />
To our needs. I ate the killer PBJ sandwich , she made and her brother James fixed us also<br />
Killer smoothies. I believe I had two cups as well as Jess.<br />
<br />
All of a sudden at mile 163, we noticed this ominous cloud coming towards us. Lightning,<br />
Thunder is happening along with strong wind. Only thing we did not know where the wind <br />
Is blowing to. So we scrambled to leave at around 1900 and within a mile I got dropped<br />
From strong pace of Roy and within two miles rain started pouring. so I stopped to put <br />
My jacket on. My lights were working but my cyclometer ran out of battery, so I am guessing<br />
My speed while enjoying the strong tailwind. I managed to turn on my cyclometer and actually saw that I was doing 26 mph, then it died again. Then the road just turned pitch black and I<br />
Noticed hail slapping on my left face, so I fixed my helmet and rode with my head cocked<br />
To the left. Then I kept hearing like it was a big creek filled with water just about to cross the road.I don't know, may be it was my mind playing with me but I suddenly got sacred but not<br />
Panicking, yet. looking for signs of city lights. Nothing. I started to shiver from cold. Then a big<br />
Sign at the side of the road Bishop 10 miles, so I guess I am on the right direction, route 6<br />
heading south. Then a pick up truck stopped and offered me a ride to town. I guess Even looked crazier when I refused his offer. A couple of miles after that, the road is dry <br />
And now I can see the beacon light from their airport, what a relief. Rolled in at 2105<br />
And went directly to tub bath to reheat my self and got out just in time to join everybody <br />
At Denny's and relived our adventure.<br />
<br />
Congratulations to all my buddies and strong performance Roy for your first finished dbl.<br />
<br />
Louie R.AdoboVelo Wire Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14564509633139075984noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399788279623015271.post-46822120874471470072011-02-23T20:20:00.000-08:002011-02-23T20:20:57.940-08:00February 18, 2011<br />
<br />
Camino Real Double Century<br />
by ASTIG Elpidio Lardizabal<br />
<br />
Not too many started the ride. The day started in our favor but ended up terrible. I believe they gave everybody a credit because of the harsh weather, gusty wind, cold temperatures, road conditions, and riders getting lost after dark. Jun Usi, Richard Reh, and I took our time just to finish under the alloted time. The plan was to finish safe. This was Richard's first double and he was tested. He called it "brutal". The ride was okay until the rain dropped and it did not stop from there. Then the darkness of the night came. We hooked up with other slow riders and stayed behind them just to make sure we finish the ride in time. The canyon was too dark for me and too dangerous and there were more on the descends. We were unable to see the reflectors on the road. Water streams from one side to another. The road was too dark. I depended on riders tail lights in front of me. Our brakes were wet and slippery. Imagine riding in bad weather conditions... freezing, soaking wet with numb finger tips! I can't even pull out my water bottle from it's cage! I can't even shift to change to my other chainring... I was just depending on my right hand still being able to shift my gears at the back. <br />
<br />
That was another experience that I never had before. After all... we felt super good (ASTIGS). Going through challenges, hardship, and obstacles. I'm proud that we didn't quit. I called it the survival of defeat!<br />
While riding I was thinking, why I'm doing this punishment! It's torture! But after all, it's pride, an experience/challenge that not everyone could take.<br />
<br />
Frank Natividad endured the event also.<br />
<br />
<em><span style="color: cyan;">It was the harshest conditions I have ever ridden a double in! The pelting of the hailstones was particularily painful!!! I too could not feel my fingers to shift my gears. I sat in my truck at the finish, shivering for 20 minutes with the heater on , unable to use my fingers to unclip my helmet!<br />
<br />
Brad House<br />
backontrackproductions.com</span></em>AdoboVelo Wire Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14564509633139075984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399788279623015271.post-12568359327553015342011-02-19T08:15:00.000-08:002011-02-23T20:00:18.988-08:00Tour de Palm Springs 2011<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKKFx43mWXJCXDnx2r8LbQtd_vaSMVtSwzFdE641PpTxn2Z0jBagXxM969DvKC270w-AYlxpm4X8suJ6wqA7KF3wRsDR4VC_K-wLfvTLKM7GSbnqOLrgWs_AulVq_uE91_KqJ1qpN_Cq5a/s1600/TdPS+Group+Photo+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKKFx43mWXJCXDnx2r8LbQtd_vaSMVtSwzFdE641PpTxn2Z0jBagXxM969DvKC270w-AYlxpm4X8suJ6wqA7KF3wRsDR4VC_K-wLfvTLKM7GSbnqOLrgWs_AulVq_uE91_KqJ1qpN_Cq5a/s400/TdPS+Group+Photo+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>We had more than 30 Adobovelo's signed up for Tour De Palm Springs on February 12, 2011. The temperature was at 43 degrees Fahrenheit at the start of the ride. Everyone was bundled up as we started one block from the start line. Fifteen Adobovelos waited for the rest to appear. We were waiting on others including Kumander Agimat, Jonas, El, Ed, Egay, Filbert, Carlo A decision was made to regroup at the first SAG stop at mile 16. So off we went. It was a relatively fast ascent to mile 16 considering the 2-4% grade. Everyone climbed with ease, spinning to the tops of the hills. You can tell our riders have been training hard for this ride. As the sun warmed up, we shed our warm layers to cool off. The group swelled to 25 riders at mile 25. Still no sign of the others so we headed for mile 50 SAG stop. We hooked up with a group of 15 other riders when we approached the long descents to reach speeds of up to 40 mph. Once the road flattened out, we maintained a cruising speed of 25-27 mph. We were trading pulls. Gil and Deo were just hammering away. Deo, for his part, kept complaining his bike was too light! He felt he was not working hard on his bike at all. Deo debuted his fully assembled new Adobobelo bike for it's maiden voyage. <br />
<br />
At mile 50, at long last, most of the Adobovelo riders caught up with the main peloton, except for Jonas' group. A couple of MMCC riders were present and stayed with us for lunch. We then trekked to our own personal Adobovelo SAG on mile 68. Roehl, Froy, Edmond maintained a steady pace of 22-25 mph as we passed other riders. The Adobovelos were looking good. We reached Eva Rivera, Frances Gorospe and a few of her running buddies at our SAG station on 54th and Jefferson where they had food and drinks ready. Non-Adobovelo riders would stop too, thinking we are at an official TdPS SAG station . We told them they are welcome to stay, but the official SAG was another 2 miles away. Some decided to enjoy our hospitality. I overheard some riders say,"They know what they are doing." <br />
<br />
As we left, El the Dies-EL, hammered at a blistering pace of 25mph into headwinds as we left La Quinta for Rancho Mirage. We had a quick stop on mile 91 to refuel and restroom breaks. The remaining 12 miles was on easy pace to keep the group together as we crossed the finish line in one large group.<br />
<br />
The day finished with, of course, Chicken Adobo, BBQ on a stick, drinks, chips, salsa, salad, beer at the Gorospe residence in La Quinta. About 30 riders with their families, children were present. Thanks to all who brought drinks and food. We had a great company.<br />
<br />
We missed Kuya El at the BBQ. I understand he was on his way home to celebrate his birthday ASAP. HAPPY BIRTHDAY KUYA EL!<br />
<br />
The Adobovelos used the TdPS as a training ride for Death Valley Double Century. Looks like we will break our last record of 15 riders finishing the DVD. Let's wait and see. <br />
<br />
Our total riding time was 5:39 with average speed of 18.1 mph. (from my Garmin, I'll bet Kuya El's average was faster)<br />
<br />
Congratulations to all the Adobovelos who finished this year's TdPS.<br />
<br />
Looking forward to next year's TdPS,<br />
<br />
DennisAdoboVelo Wire Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14564509633139075984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399788279623015271.post-45528586046256024832010-11-07T21:36:00.000-08:002010-11-08T09:57:26.148-08:00Part 4 - Bring a Good Can Opener (or better yet, home-made adobo)"<b><i>What?</i></b>" said one of they guys..... "<b><i>What broke?</i></b>"<br /><br /><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">"<b><i>The can opener</i></b>" someone replied. This was a stunning development.</div><br />This happened a FEW MONTHS EARLIER, at the Spring Death Valley Double Century. Right after that ride, we gathered at our hotel room at 12-midnight to eat. The restaurant was closed at that hour, but we knew that beforehand, so the day before, at Baker (100 miles from our hotel in Amargosa), Louie bought canned sardines and a can-opener at the liquor store. We also brought a rice cooker.<div><br /></div><div>We had a pot of freshly made steamed rice, and we were going to have <b><i>CANNED SARDINES </i></b>at the hotel room. There were 7 of gathered us in the hotel room: <b>Julius, Jesse</b> (who both debuted their 200-milers), <b>Pete, Francis, Victor, Ricky, Louie N, and myself (Mandy).</b> (<b>Jun Usi</b> finished the ride too but was in another room with his wife and daughter <b>Lina and Erika</b>, who earlier in the day bought dinner for him before the restaurant closed.)</div><div><div><br /></div>We each burned about 8,000 calories to complete 200 miles.<i> (In comparison the average person burns 2,000 calories in a day.)</i> <a href="http://www.adventurecorps.com/deathvalley/2010/2010dvfall.html">AdventureCorps</a> biking & marathon events are the best-stocked and supported rides: They have Subway sandwiches for lunch, pizza after the ride. All the rest-stops have just what you need to refuel during the ride: Water, bananas, powder drinks, electrolytes, energy bars, Hammer products, PBJs, dates, pretzels, hot cup-o-noodles, soda, etc. </div><div><br /></div><div>But you cannot stuff yourself with 8,000 calories worth of food during the 12-17 hours that you're biking 200 miles, for many reasons. <i> </i>One is, during intense athletic activity, your stomach doesn't have the usual energy to digest it. Yes, the stomach, like any other organ, needs energy to do its specialized work of digesting food. </div><div><br /></div><div> During a 200-mile bike ride, you're probably at your aerobic capacity for most of most of the ride. When sustaining such an effort over a span of 12-17 hours, the body will concentrate blood flow to the brain and limbs, leaving less energy for the stomach. That means you won't be craving food. (You're burning fat and muscle to make up the caloric deficit). And even if you manage to stuff yourself with food, your stomach would "protest", by giving you a bloated feeling: The food is just sitting there, not getting digested fast enough. No matter how much you eat in one seating, the stomach can only process and send 300 calories to the bloodstream. Bottom line: During the ride, although we each burn over 8,000 calories, but can only eat 5,000 calories. </div><div><div><br /></div>After the ride, once you start relaxing, your stomach gets its mojo back, and the hunger pangs come.<br /><br />But the restaurant was closed. So we had our rice and canned sardines readied to tide us over.<br /><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br /></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">But after opening the FIRST can of sardines, the cheap, <b>FLIMSY</b> can opener <b>CAME APART </b>! Yes, it came apart. We couldn't believe it.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br /></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Seven hungry guys, a pot of rice, and only ONE can of sardines. We couldn't open the other cans. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br /></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Fortunately someone made hard-boiled eggs. Still... dinner of rice and hard-boiled eggs and a smearing of sardines isn't quite satisfying.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br /></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">It must have made an impression on Julius, because this time around, at this 2010 Fall Edition of the Death Valley Double, his wife prepared HOME MADE CHICKEN ADOBO for everyone the night before our trip, froze it in Glad containers. We defrosted and warmed it on a gas burner on the lawn outside our hotel room. It was DELICIOUS. George V. came by and had some too. Thanks Julius and wife !!</div></div>AdoboVelo Wire Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14564509633139075984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399788279623015271.post-41875228976409874262010-11-03T20:52:00.001-07:002010-11-08T16:17:49.627-08:00Part 3/Final Report: Oct 2010 Death Valley Ride<div style="text-align: left;"><b>START: </b>So we set out at 7AM, wet and cold. After a few miles of chaotic formation, we were warmed up, but the Adobos were already splintered because each individual had varying times required to warm up.</div><div><br /></div><div>No problem: The weather dried up, so Francis stopped the front group to remove raincoats, and wait for the rest. </div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; "><b>Stoppage to regroup</b></span></span></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJnGMr4HCGNYh0QKuAMer1KglMv5u5X0WZjpEZT8o5t2ZRBuLJ4vu12d8H7G5gBmTCH-9fGnMisp7I5x_c5p9KGvfeSF_pMpKvpzDKzryjDjP9M03Z5tXMi0CzrT88OqihnxctNlwMuX0/s1600/IMG_0157.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJnGMr4HCGNYh0QKuAMer1KglMv5u5X0WZjpEZT8o5t2ZRBuLJ4vu12d8H7G5gBmTCH-9fGnMisp7I5x_c5p9KGvfeSF_pMpKvpzDKzryjDjP9M03Z5tXMi0CzrT88OqihnxctNlwMuX0/s320/IMG_0157.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535547090988922034" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><b>MORNING ADOBO PACELINE: </b>After regrouping, we formed an Adobo paceline. The stronger riders took turns in front. I must mention them and thank them: <b>Francis, Jesse, Louie F., Elpidio, Pete. </b> It was <b>SILENTLY UNDERSTOOD</b> that the other riders were to <b>CONSERVE</b> and not put any work in front. The <b>ADOBO TRAIN</b> overtook countless riders and even other groups along the way. Some of them joined our paceline. </div><div><br /></div><div>We were intact for the <b>first 50 miles</b>, and then splintered during the last 20-miles (featuring climbs) to Scotty's Castle. Arriving in the front group were "A" riders <b>Francis, Pete, Jesse, Louie F., Elpidio,</b> who carried other non-Adobo cyclists whom they picked up along the way. Behind were <b>Dennis, Jun, Manny, Rosalie, Louie N.</b> Then <b>Julius </b>and<b> Shangrila.</b> I <b>myself </b>got dropped to last place. I begin to doubt my training.</div><div><br /></div><div>The century riders <b>Ricky, Lester, </b>and <b>Victor</b> were already at Scotty's waiting for us 2X riders. All the Adobos regrouped there. It was <u>Mile # 50 for the century riders</u>, and <u>Mile # 70 for the 2X's</u>. We had lunch. We saw <b>Reggie of Sta Clarita Velo</b> there, he joined our group. </div><div><br /></div><div>From Scotty's Castle the century riders u-turned, while the 2x riders headed to Nevada to Mile 100 checkpoint (we would come back to Scotty's later on the return trip.) </div><div><br /></div><div>Francis and Elpidio waited at Scotty's for Reggie to finish lunch.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>EARLY AFTERNOON ADOBO PACELINE: </b>The rest of us went ahead. The start of the stage was a <b>5 mile climb</b>. We had <b>cold muscles, stiffened legs and full stomach,</b> thus magnifying the difficulty of the slope. The group splintered. Pete and Dennis were strong and slowly pulled away. I got my 2nd wind and started to chase them. Dropped behind were Jun Usi, Rosalie, Manny, Shangrila and Louie N. </div><div><br /></div><div>Later I saw Pete and Dennis stopped for photos. I plowed ahead, all the way to the Nevada Mile 100 checkpoint all alone. Pete and Elpidio overtook me along the way, and as they did I stuck with their wheel, but only for a minute (which was all the energy I could muster). Then I let go. </div><div><br /></div><div>Way behind me, everyone else regrouped, and rode in a paceline all the way to Mile 100, pulled variously by Francis, Louie F. and Jesse. We all regrouped at Mile 100.</div><div><br /></div><div>The narrative of the next 26 miles back to Scotty's was told in part 1.</div><div><br /></div><div>At Scotty's Castle we regrouped. The more difficult stages were ahead, and we already had 126 miles in our legs. We still had to climb up to the crater , and Hell's Gate.</div><div><br /></div><div>------------</div><div><b>BUT WHY? </b>Sometimes I'm asked by my non-cycling friends/relatives...Why? Why do a gruelling 200-mile bike ride? If it hurts, why do you do it again and again? The same question is asked of people who climb Mt Everest. The answer offered is, <b><u>"Because it's There."</u></b></div><div><br /></div><div>I stumbled upon a theory on this ride: While admiring the desert scenery far from civilation, I wondered about life before civilization.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Like Pre-Civilization</span></b></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpNderA8uPBuCYRCZkdcPD_iRexpRWUa2uHsyrUg5F7yF9A5CnpXjAzeEl7khU031xA2stQFui11FsmjKPKjJTcez-8XXjEN5JT53wPPqTTR7k1Ux06T1qcpRvIVUNSCkag6xo1s5Abow/s1600/IMG_0052.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpNderA8uPBuCYRCZkdcPD_iRexpRWUa2uHsyrUg5F7yF9A5CnpXjAzeEl7khU031xA2stQFui11FsmjKPKjJTcez-8XXjEN5JT53wPPqTTR7k1Ux06T1qcpRvIVUNSCkag6xo1s5Abow/s320/IMG_0052.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535547617445702786" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Before <b>Man </b><u>invented agriculture</u>, he <b>hunted for food far away from home base</b>.</div><div><br /></div><div>Prehistoric man's <b>foraging strategies</b> were no different from long distance biking (although his was a matter of survival, not recreation). But the point is, it must still be deep in our DNA thousands of years later.</div><div><br /></div><div>Prehistoric man <b>arose before dawn with his buddies</b>, rain or shine, and set out to hunt. <b><i>Check</i></b>. </div><div><br /></div><div>To seek out prey they <b>walked (<i>easy pace</i>), ran (<i>hard pace</i>), and sprinted (<i>full-out</i>)</b>. <b><i> Check that too.</i></b></div><div><br /></div><div>Occasionally they <b>stopped to rest, eat, or take a dump </b><i>(sorry, there's no gentle way to say it)</i>. <b><i>Yeah Check that</i></b>. And <b>IF</b> they were a <b>close-knit group</b>, they must've told stories and jokes . Perhaps that's how speech got started. Other tribes that were less close-knit took longer to develop speech. Must've been boring in that tribe.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Team work </b>was needed to corner and overcome prey. <b><i>Check that too.</i></b></div><div><br /></div><div>They hunted <b>until the sun set</b>. Then they u-turned and headed home with their catch. Anyone hurt during the hunt would be <b>carried home</b>. Finally they <b>arrived late at night</b>. <b><i> Check, Check. Check, and Check.</i></b></div><div><br /></div><div>Heck, even Neantherthal's crouched position was aerodynamic, just put a road bike under his legs.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitVqeI9IwKKzhqQBZVQEWTgRVW6y6oxryQPOYNtn6QyIY844rT2wzL-qED7XruwxeKCTIUsysMilI885S_BXFKmOP_SzsEURoXTjJOicJqj-pMFvZjLNCcdpL9_8Ci6oIDJsoGqeLoFrA/s1600/Evol_of_Cyclist.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitVqeI9IwKKzhqQBZVQEWTgRVW6y6oxryQPOYNtn6QyIY844rT2wzL-qED7XruwxeKCTIUsysMilI885S_BXFKmOP_SzsEURoXTjJOicJqj-pMFvZjLNCcdpL9_8Ci6oIDJsoGqeLoFrA/s400/Evol_of_Cyclist.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535541698445133986" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 107px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Point is, <b><i>it's in our DNA: We can keep going the whole day and into night.</i></b></div><div>------------</div><div> </div><div>Endurance and the need for camaraderie is in our DNA.</div><div><br /></div><div>And we needed them in spades. From Scotty's Castle, we had to climb to the crater. It was 4:30pm. <b>By now the century riders Ricky, Lester and Victor, in that order, had arrived at the Furnace Creek finish line.</b> The 2x riders had 70 miles to go. </div><div><br /></div><div>The crater is a stunning site, but getting there is a short but steep climb. When we got there, it was getting dark. </div><div><br /></div><div>From the crater, it's a 40 mile trip to the bottom of Mud Canyon road. The stage featured a mix of rollers, some long descents. But there was a headwind. </div><div><br /></div><div>Our target next stop was Mud Canyon where hot soup waiting. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>THE HAPPIEST CLUB ON EARTH - </b>At the start of the stage we were joined by a cyclist named <b>FRANCESCA</b>, who was riding alone until we came along. This was Francesca's 5th 2x of the year. She saw that our group was fun, so she joined in with us. I told her our group of Adobos were riding together and finishing together, and waiting for the weaker riders. As we rode, I told her the story of what happened to me last year (getting dropped big time), and how the group pulled me through. She observed that the group was relaxed and always joking among ourselves. </div><div><br /></div><div>We were the happiest bike club on Earth. </div><div><br /></div><div>After a few miles, Manny cramped up and dropped back with Julius and Shangrila. Francis and Louie F stayed with them to pull them. </div><div><br /></div><div>In the front group were Pete, Jesse, Elpidio, and Dennis trading pulls, with Jun, Rosalie, Louie N, Reggie, Francesca, and myself drafting. </div><div><br /></div><div>Later Pete, Jesse and Elpidio inched away. Jun and Louie N decided to chase and stick with them. I couldn't, plain and simple. So I dropped back to conserve for the climb later. So did Rosalie and Reggie and Francesca. We rode together. <b>Reggie pulled most of the way.</b></div><div><div><br /></div></div><div>Meanwhile, in the front group, Jesse and Pete spent many miles pulling, then eased up a bit. At that point, Louie was feeling great and didn't feel like slowing. It so happened to be on the downhill, <b><i><u>so he sling-shot himself and dropped everyone!!</u></i></b>.</div><div><br /></div><div>Elpidio, Dennis and Jun watched, not reacting right away. Unfortunately for Louie N, it made Jesse mad. So Jesse immediately gave chase and established contact. <b style="text-decoration: underline; font-style: italic; ">The other bad news for Louie was that he underestimated the hill</b> . He ran out of steam before reaching the apex, and was overtaken, and then unceremoniously dropped. (We joked about it later at the hotel.)</div><div><br /></div><div> Jesse plowed ahead with Pete and Elpidio. Dennis behind, then Louie N and Jun.</div><div><br /></div><div>We all regrouped at Mud Canyon (the rest-stop before the most difficult stage, the 7-mile climb to Hell's Gate). The SAG volunteers <b>Lina and Erika</b> (Jun's wife and daughter respectively) and <b>Imre</b> set aside hot soup for us.</div><div><br /></div><div>-------------</div><div>We had LOTS of time. The climb started. <b><u>This climb is the race of truth. There is no drafting.</u></b></div><div><br /></div><div>Soon the usual suspects pulled ahead: Pete, Jesse, reached the top first</div><div><br /></div><div>They were followed by Elpidio, Dennis, Francesca</div><div><br /></div><div>Followed by me. (Last year I stopped 20 times, this time it felt like an ordinary training lap on GMR.)</div><div><br /></div><div>Later came Rosalie and Jun. Further behind them were Shangrila, Louie N, Julius, and Manny. With them were Francis and Louie F, two of our strongest riders, who purposely stayed behind to shepherd them.</div><div><br /></div><div>We regrouped at the top of Hell's Gate.</div><div><br /></div><div>Then we downhilled 9 miles. </div><div><br /></div><div>The last 11 miles, we rode a <b>tourist pace</b> to the finish line, in the dark, as a <b>united group</b>, <b>telling stories, laughing, joking, singing</b>. </div><div><br /></div><div>With less than a mile to go we saw the lights of the finish line. We started to <b>whoop it up.</b> If you were dead tired a while ago, not anymore. The camaraderie was real. <b>There is a feeling, it's called "exuberance".</b> No matter how empty your physical reserves, you feel invincible and on a "high". Perhaps it's a chemical reaction. Defintely an emotion. Whatever it is, it's one of the reasons I went along for this ride. </div><div><br /></div><div>Most clubs arrive splintered according to individual ability. <b>Nothing wrong with that</b>. <b>Competition </b>is one of the primary reasons for doing this ride. But we arrived together, carrying the proud Adobo colors, along with some friends picked up along the way.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-T22YmQE72iE3G2GetzX1lpZNxIfqskb_lTC2obtZlKFCCrTNogyIMbLuRa7Sv-m59ghF5mq5UnVpYdE0TRpgKHf0cu0PaWKkyIqYM5Za3jBbQngPMnZjPP-Nl7dpq-eNgQeqfqXjKMA/s1600/IMG_0184.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-T22YmQE72iE3G2GetzX1lpZNxIfqskb_lTC2obtZlKFCCrTNogyIMbLuRa7Sv-m59ghF5mq5UnVpYdE0TRpgKHf0cu0PaWKkyIqYM5Za3jBbQngPMnZjPP-Nl7dpq-eNgQeqfqXjKMA/s400/IMG_0184.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535546558560824594" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 207px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The elite competitors (NOT US) finished in impressive times of 10+ and 11+ hours, riding solo. Adobos came in at 15 hrs 42 mins. We had about 2.5 hours of cumulative stoppage time at rest stops, regrouping. If you're an elite rider with a chance of placing top 5 or 10, of course you should not wait, you should go all out and compete. But none of us were going to place. Might as well ride together and finish together. It was more fun, even for the strong Adobos who had to pull our pack most of the way. </div><div><br /></div><div>The end (mandy g.)</div><div>---------------</div>AdoboVelo Cyclisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11166972850576478584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399788279623015271.post-70056245045171850812010-11-02T22:42:00.000-07:002010-11-11T17:57:59.870-08:00Part 2: Post-Ride report 2010 Oct Death Valley Double (by Mandy G)<div style="text-align: left;">It was cold and sprinking at the start of the ride. Chris Kostman said hey, this is Death Valley, so expect all kinds of weather. Anyway, he said, "This being the desert, it's a DRY RAIN". Everyone laughed.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The basketball legend BILL WALTON was in the group, he was doing the century. He was so exhuberant he kept repeating Thank you Chris Kostman / We love you Chris Kostman. Clearly we was a fan of the outdoors. Later in the ride he would joke with the other Adobo century riders Lester and Ricky, and even literally give them a push with his long arms. A friendly guy, that Bill Walton.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">We rolled at 7AM. Many of the Adobo riders were going achieve important milestones in this ride.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNTrMnClaDcxqJruSkGimmQh_lK-lnO8x7m5zJgHEqJu4gz2Tyxs7Jy8T8U66MAgBgjASnQkNf4Vvj2Y36cyKXwpQ_qPq3wt8slwnc-FNmhEzZs2B_4ScnPAOiInvdCG_0Ou57JtTFKiA/s1600/DSCN0410.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNTrMnClaDcxqJruSkGimmQh_lK-lnO8x7m5zJgHEqJu4gz2Tyxs7Jy8T8U66MAgBgjASnQkNf4Vvj2Y36cyKXwpQ_qPq3wt8slwnc-FNmhEzZs2B_4ScnPAOiInvdCG_0Ou57JtTFKiA/s320/DSCN0410.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535207748789863026" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>VP DENNIS was attempting his first double. He had already purchased a Death Valley jersey in the spring, but didn't feel he earned the right to wear it yet because he missed the Spring double century due to illness. He was hospitalized with a lung infection, and in the aftermath vowed to get in shape, stay healthy, and complete the double. He showed great fitness during Adobo's TDF Frazier Park Century in the summer.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIC5dr_ovZ9xwxGhXqF26jHI2-yAeeXcyeg7Ax5kqINO5njAcupuQjvk6BkCXk3EF5uEPFVaSDxiWgiu05aVOd3m5oz1uAMGl-jWFoL5cKORiThQp2AIiKxNFQa5rIGnAetlNok0x0hwg/s1600/_NPG0602.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIC5dr_ovZ9xwxGhXqF26jHI2-yAeeXcyeg7Ax5kqINO5njAcupuQjvk6BkCXk3EF5uEPFVaSDxiWgiu05aVOd3m5oz1uAMGl-jWFoL5cKORiThQp2AIiKxNFQa5rIGnAetlNok0x0hwg/s320/_NPG0602.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535202910443135314" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>LESTER was trying to complete his first century. He attempted the Cruisin-the-Conejo century in the spring, but got drunk with friends the night before, so he did only the metric. Then he SAG'd the TDF Frazier Park edition for additional motivation. But most importantly he trained by doing multiple laps on GMR (for readers who are not familiar, that's Glendora Mountain Road in So. Calif., a 10-mile climb with 2,500 feet climbing). </div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpJkuoiSNHI7OsXLORIUD0Zg0DkGzcZHe_fvDyifXQYVQUzini8jsP4lUGHIbwbFj2imuEIGZyJ3UXl8sfzbZjPnxCc7s0pqbMfewHEhaNBrKVwEMXlelAY_x4geCn-eaqajdL_CvncuY/s1600/_NPG0593.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpJkuoiSNHI7OsXLORIUD0Zg0DkGzcZHe_fvDyifXQYVQUzini8jsP4lUGHIbwbFj2imuEIGZyJ3UXl8sfzbZjPnxCc7s0pqbMfewHEhaNBrKVwEMXlelAY_x4geCn-eaqajdL_CvncuY/s320/_NPG0593.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535200286177915522" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>VICTOR was one of the first to register for the ride, signalling his serious intent to complete his first double. He has been trying for the double for a long time now, but has had the bad luck of getting a cold/flu as the race approaches. Again he had the cold, but he's a trooper, so today he was doing the century, along with Lester and Ricky.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie8EbQb7nbEEx2kjbUzQgdQEnzFm-X2gVWRH6oFL9A17goC6P6xCtWrn4YKFT5sZIE8MP0DHxvpeD2inlUQ7IXoTnFmInLcc6BBvwq6s_8VwkRBVubK10XEpRaZtHPd6a-VIioP89uXlg/s1600/a_vICTOR.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie8EbQb7nbEEx2kjbUzQgdQEnzFm-X2gVWRH6oFL9A17goC6P6xCtWrn4YKFT5sZIE8MP0DHxvpeD2inlUQ7IXoTnFmInLcc6BBvwq6s_8VwkRBVubK10XEpRaZtHPd6a-VIioP89uXlg/s320/a_vICTOR.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535206438710612130" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 303px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>RICKY just had cataract surgery only a couple of weeks ago, so his training lost some momentum. But before that he was putting in serious miles, and lost weight and gained fitness. He was going to do the century today. </div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhbxSq03MCUpz3P4dHyT3Hao98_d-McqxJDCkeQ-iz-ss2kO1Sg_r4ewaKWWKealV2t2ZPPdH4F1-3vizbPjQTnHSJr1FMRqT8r3BxQ26XvR_tojspB_L0XuaFT16Ub1Q5LN1vJTyvAm0/s1600/_NPG0591.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhbxSq03MCUpz3P4dHyT3Hao98_d-McqxJDCkeQ-iz-ss2kO1Sg_r4ewaKWWKealV2t2ZPPdH4F1-3vizbPjQTnHSJr1FMRqT8r3BxQ26XvR_tojspB_L0XuaFT16Ub1Q5LN1vJTyvAm0/s320/_NPG0591.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535200282025512850" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>El Prez JESSE, who only completed his FIRST double just this year in the February Death Valley Double, was now gunning for his 5th double of the year, to achieve the California 1000-Mile award. He was looking strong.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwuaoLrPc2D1yaJw_clT_T0q-k1PMO6BiMpxpaqE_wKXcrJojFLwsrOy11b2KgMoh64SeNDqvwzPgbXSHhH4YbWmVVoFof3x8QI2d_LrjV4ySPi4drVEDu3Tgqw6h4RjjWxeaTPlyIWhE/s1600/_NPG0599.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwuaoLrPc2D1yaJw_clT_T0q-k1PMO6BiMpxpaqE_wKXcrJojFLwsrOy11b2KgMoh64SeNDqvwzPgbXSHhH4YbWmVVoFof3x8QI2d_LrjV4ySPi4drVEDu3Tgqw6h4RjjWxeaTPlyIWhE/s320/_NPG0599.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535202892369962258" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>EMILIO "JUN" was targeting his SEVENTH double of the year ! Last year he completed the difficult KOM series. His wife LINA and daughter ERIKA are very supportive, always presemt at these events as personal SAG support. However personal SAGs are not allowed by Chris, the organizer of this event, so they became official volunteers, manning some of the rest stops.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTQLdnt27mM2_l217Spyl-ZRUa4FlBwI6LY5zuEiPqHOhgv7_9JunJagX1ozwKlLMFERGf5kQ2mr2gckb9elP7Ar0vmxYN18Hi1ltKEUre6HgQYzfI18iA7ZXp5vhT4P8fGOkm9PXIPyY/s1600/_NPG0590.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTQLdnt27mM2_l217Spyl-ZRUa4FlBwI6LY5zuEiPqHOhgv7_9JunJagX1ozwKlLMFERGf5kQ2mr2gckb9elP7Ar0vmxYN18Hi1ltKEUre6HgQYzfI18iA7ZXp5vhT4P8fGOkm9PXIPyY/s320/_NPG0590.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535200272554449970" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><div>IMRE, the funny and always reliable and indefatigable adopted Pinoy (of Hungarian descent) was someone who could be counted on to be there rain or shine, either as rider or support. He was planning on doing the century, but decided to SAG due to lack of training. He SAG'd along with LINA and ERIKA</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">IMRE on right, with basketball legend BILL WALTON and fellow giant LESTER</span></b></span></div></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXbxFWMbqIzvJEffY1EZl82ZubXWfx5xa7Og6zjYJ2aqkununKFD8a7Tk7jfS2mLNPkSoa5NLe4_XIcn8VXPUw6jBGlgDdaTy58ixVIekexZz02C4x4uHFAQPEdBi_-AWUD0qHnhD4qeU/s1600/DSCN0414.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXbxFWMbqIzvJEffY1EZl82ZubXWfx5xa7Og6zjYJ2aqkununKFD8a7Tk7jfS2mLNPkSoa5NLe4_XIcn8VXPUw6jBGlgDdaTy58ixVIekexZz02C4x4uHFAQPEdBi_-AWUD0qHnhD4qeU/s400/DSCN0414.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535206959052769026" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>PETE was a veteran of double centuries, this was going to be peanuts for him. But he wanted to come because he knew it was going to be great fun in a big group. Being one of the stronger riders, he would be relied upon for work in front.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOvwKfVxKilvvyZTorJxKpMUoD55ZRJHFuBhxy8FUOmB5fj9INW7BPiQ4d-xl-q4auS7hqBGbPwVFQzQm8hEB7JN5JsPfhJzFZWkMY0TiP2-vu62I5TAv8TKIkEiEf06JVdwVwJdB91ds/s1600/_NPG0598.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOvwKfVxKilvvyZTorJxKpMUoD55ZRJHFuBhxy8FUOmB5fj9INW7BPiQ4d-xl-q4auS7hqBGbPwVFQzQm8hEB7JN5JsPfhJzFZWkMY0TiP2-vu62I5TAv8TKIkEiEf06JVdwVwJdB91ds/s320/_NPG0598.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535201721405194530" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>LUISITO "LOUIE" F. also only completed his first double just this year at the Grand Tour, posting fantastic times for a rookie, and was one of the strongest Adobos on this ride. We were going to count on him to do some pulling.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuFQok-yAAxegRGTqLWLNBKpEfEvHZxwKA99BWza-9CnG-qM_d_6qEMuqiHrJMVrzZAKMmlwRGMSFPpDQ_Co_uKpD1amsTmytbJ1Fv2mBKkLe0ND5yJ3IAZ-YAzYwmWyaWxEE-3Di3Nq0/s1600/_NPG0601.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuFQok-yAAxegRGTqLWLNBKpEfEvHZxwKA99BWza-9CnG-qM_d_6qEMuqiHrJMVrzZAKMmlwRGMSFPpDQ_Co_uKpD1amsTmytbJ1Fv2mBKkLe0ND5yJ3IAZ-YAzYwmWyaWxEE-3Di3Nq0/s320/_NPG0601.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535202900911793170" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>MANNY has been very busy with work , so he was not in peak form. Yet he felt he had just enough juice to finish a double. He signed up for this ride to motivate himself to get back on training.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNCYfIWPE04VWTduZhJ5QQBN69K8UkmXhyphenhyphenitQvPKSjfIOwucMrS-7YWNPsTvRuCMZII7yDnhsKtPtbWBcNcnV_xuJPgEDRwreUYXq3s8AreJGFHsk4NSTSmipIEXhBZNFMQ9aXp-948lk/s1600/_NPG0600.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNCYfIWPE04VWTduZhJ5QQBN69K8UkmXhyphenhyphenitQvPKSjfIOwucMrS-7YWNPsTvRuCMZII7yDnhsKtPtbWBcNcnV_xuJPgEDRwreUYXq3s8AreJGFHsk4NSTSmipIEXhBZNFMQ9aXp-948lk/s320/_NPG0600.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535202894218663810" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The always smiling JULIUS completed his first double at the Spring DV, and his second at the Grand Tour. He was on a roll, and was looking strong and his morale was high. This would be his THIRD 2x for the year, earning him the <b>Calif. Triple Crown</b>. (<i>His wife made HOME-MADE ADOBO enough for everyone after the ride. She made it before the trip, froze it, and we heated it in the lawn outside our hotel room after the ride. Thanks Julius and wife)</i></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNlVWQ2hIQmb00LlPbvwYCBgPdrPMhF1CzsFJkHpEFYtEcKkcD4NtDJmPAlGR2jEMALbgLzGgQ1Etl5J4Zv7L63P2VhMxCbgWJsBbLMHuy4BPxq3gHU4WsnMKE24FtDLOKAN8xgasgy8o/s1600/_NPG0594.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNlVWQ2hIQmb00LlPbvwYCBgPdrPMhF1CzsFJkHpEFYtEcKkcD4NtDJmPAlGR2jEMALbgLzGgQ1Etl5J4Zv7L63P2VhMxCbgWJsBbLMHuy4BPxq3gHU4WsnMKE24FtDLOKAN8xgasgy8o/s320/_NPG0594.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535201704137811186" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>SHANGRILA is a tri-athlete who completed her first double at the Grand Tour and quickly followed it with a Solvang double. She met the Adobos at the Grand Tour, and joined us for this ride. This would be her THIRD 2x for the year, earning her the Calif. Triple Crown.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt0hyJzyTU1b_M5bnw5XCQfpq-aTb3bmqpnsRpXTzf_8JdHJCrqM_agCkNItJ4lQOYhsm5t3F_QS-P4eV1ziHzFRmprax1Ns_mAf3Lnm3whNdnRvr3aynfDtOyVXogNKTT8504e6RlTkk/s1600/_NPG0596.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt0hyJzyTU1b_M5bnw5XCQfpq-aTb3bmqpnsRpXTzf_8JdHJCrqM_agCkNItJ4lQOYhsm5t3F_QS-P4eV1ziHzFRmprax1Ns_mAf3Lnm3whNdnRvr3aynfDtOyVXogNKTT8504e6RlTkk/s320/_NPG0596.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535201711722721602" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>ELPIDIO rides 400+ milies a week in the San Gabriel River bike trail, frrequently riding alone. He wanted to have some fun and camaraderie with the boys. He had done the Spring version of the Death Valley double many years ago, but not the Fall edition. He was looking forward to riding with his fellow Adobos.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwn50ZGLzey-n4XXwwJjlxXbaeruW94OVWJoVvHP1p5ipIHpYwuDrl4Z-1YCps51uX7sfj_tcR0X8wq6KIyS7yYwcQW9SqqLLB2hxKdfC9dif0AUGx3ZTKm9F1-IIPE2OGysLNVFNLBk4/s1600/_NPG0595.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwn50ZGLzey-n4XXwwJjlxXbaeruW94OVWJoVvHP1p5ipIHpYwuDrl4Z-1YCps51uX7sfj_tcR0X8wq6KIyS7yYwcQW9SqqLLB2hxKdfC9dif0AUGx3ZTKm9F1-IIPE2OGysLNVFNLBk4/s320/_NPG0595.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535201710411541474" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>FRANCIS, the one who started the double-century trend among Adobos, had just completed the 508-miile Furnace Creek race also in Death Valley just 4 weeks ago. That puts him in a class by himself. On this ride, he was going to help the other Adobos, taking the majority of responsibilities of pulling in front.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglLNed7eT7QcDCwaxsb_3m_qPOhTtT3-Jcu0vO8dr2RWFLmfpeWpulyQu-2hBhmEaXXNerRMd9WObYPlNfrPf83fJl8MRFG_bxWRCOh1Qj6tmMuiECdt40RPMisVFOEwdL_KpYnAh_87k/s1600/_NPG0597.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglLNed7eT7QcDCwaxsb_3m_qPOhTtT3-Jcu0vO8dr2RWFLmfpeWpulyQu-2hBhmEaXXNerRMd9WObYPlNfrPf83fJl8MRFG_bxWRCOh1Qj6tmMuiECdt40RPMisVFOEwdL_KpYnAh_87k/s320/_NPG0597.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535201718378251842" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>If the immortal Francis started the trend, it was ROSALIE who proved that even mere mortals could do it, blazing the trail by being the first Adobo (besides Francis) to complete the California 1000-mile achievement, and being a model for the rest of her fellow average mortals. </div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs87LRBkZRDViq8ypPh3JpujjGx_ymKjhM_i8jxzoPdtH_9h1z_ViPqwcjxNltu8TFM3hby8qcyXSARyIyPc4wLX43MXxYo8Q_tjmE6H7kni23d6jaaaXCLIbLcEFeriSP_yPgrxLQ7Sk/s1600/_NPG0541.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs87LRBkZRDViq8ypPh3JpujjGx_ymKjhM_i8jxzoPdtH_9h1z_ViPqwcjxNltu8TFM3hby8qcyXSARyIyPc4wLX43MXxYo8Q_tjmE6H7kni23d6jaaaXCLIbLcEFeriSP_yPgrxLQ7Sk/s320/_NPG0541.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535203952949616978" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>In any competition, there are always many "mini-races" going on. In this 2xCentury perhaps only the top 5 elite riders had a shot at winning. But it's not the only race going on, and not the most important. No, Really, it's not the most important.</div><div><br /></div><div>The rest of the riders are in their own mini-races which rank more important to them.. Some of them have a RACE AGAINST ONESELF, attempting to outdo their previous personal best. Then there are the MINI-COMPETITIONS during the long ride, because usually you will chance upon anothe rider with similar abilities, and you race them during the whole ride or portions of it, until one gets dropped. </div><div><br /></div><div>Yet others have a long-standing friendly mini-competition going on with a friend who has similar abilities. The running gag in this group was the "featured" mini-race was between LOUIE N and myself (MANDY). When we go up GMR or Crystal Lake, we watch each other. Often we do "mock attacks" on one another. But we have to be careful to do it, because usually we're evenly matched. If you attack, better make it stick. But Louie is definitely the stronger one.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Score: Louie: 2, Mandy: 2</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCCLgLE33eZPKvf_am_N2DxJMNJFRKXSL9pid6pbLyfKOrZPY3eHu_ynq91mQABAPkqLBnKcCNxmPHa4aQOPCrnNFEQby1OzQvLfla5Btr1jU5BjoXiR4GmdizEQZ_pG8MMOhzaUk6y7w/s1600/LN+and+MG.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCCLgLE33eZPKvf_am_N2DxJMNJFRKXSL9pid6pbLyfKOrZPY3eHu_ynq91mQABAPkqLBnKcCNxmPHa4aQOPCrnNFEQby1OzQvLfla5Btr1jU5BjoXiR4GmdizEQZ_pG8MMOhzaUk6y7w/s320/LN+and+MG.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535202896065253666" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 297px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Most of the time Louie has the upper hand. Both of us completed our first double at the Oct 2009 Death Valley double a year ago. But a few months later, at the 2010 Spring DV, he bonked early and completed only the century. Mandy 2, Louie 1. We joked about it on the drive home. At the Grand Tour I could not make it due to the flu. Louie completed it. Louie and Mandy tied 2 all.</div><div><br /></div><div>It was a tight group. On Friday on our way to Furnace Creek we all had lunch at the Mad Greek in Baker. </div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivqG1HsaMd7EeR3xTFRy0MquDqKrYaW1PyTK0HwdhgH6q3391tvUE9KgAw_wNbEJAb4q4A6BBsZXJfkzx4hdtVby8YpheliTaf4HOZBXrBrcMfhDjQmgf1hedKdQYuyFVt25uNsVUl-GM/s1600/IMG_0062.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivqG1HsaMd7EeR3xTFRy0MquDqKrYaW1PyTK0HwdhgH6q3391tvUE9KgAw_wNbEJAb4q4A6BBsZXJfkzx4hdtVby8YpheliTaf4HOZBXrBrcMfhDjQmgf1hedKdQYuyFVt25uNsVUl-GM/s320/IMG_0062.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535204476676033250" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 211px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Then like tourists we stopped along the road in Death Valley and posed for photos.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi16r-07gnVM4KICpF-UZYVgGghamCYqgi4MlTwImAPJRLlfjArLIaBWUzqULhvyUY46VGe5VrtuV8xfIZP3dQbROfroS69glVxKuDEtoGuOklODb1kMMJXA_sBUVtVaTtipKrH7aXwVEQ/s1600/IMG_0087.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi16r-07gnVM4KICpF-UZYVgGghamCYqgi4MlTwImAPJRLlfjArLIaBWUzqULhvyUY46VGe5VrtuV8xfIZP3dQbROfroS69glVxKuDEtoGuOklODb1kMMJXA_sBUVtVaTtipKrH7aXwVEQ/s320/IMG_0087.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535205311342272658" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Then in the late afternoon we relaxed at the hotel and joked and told stories.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvTIV4q4tKMcSAuBhyphenhyphenIcKIgavoZn1298uRVTugjl-dPHAS2a1sVx5RDMp7eoRbmB0qX2toP8qFUUiluIqTvkD20qentIzZNj7XlADgtxPHJ8Pg3WTDYPU1haD7QymGR8sg3R5Uq6VaXk8/s1600/_NPG0567.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvTIV4q4tKMcSAuBhyphenhyphenIcKIgavoZn1298uRVTugjl-dPHAS2a1sVx5RDMp7eoRbmB0qX2toP8qFUUiluIqTvkD20qentIzZNj7XlADgtxPHJ8Pg3WTDYPU1haD7QymGR8sg3R5Uq6VaXk8/s320/_NPG0567.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535204796150197570" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>We had a communal dinner on the eve of the ride.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHO_1LKUp49uG2wVCoFevJJQrf31CwWhlvl6MfcpRg1ththZV3UMHpOR0ReyAMQouzS8uNXJkD3ZJWZzeQbY20CckHqW7MPeMMWykYdqQ58eZlZeEGvpItnSiT-xdu5eF1JqU__NR5Fw0/s1600/_NPG0570-1.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHO_1LKUp49uG2wVCoFevJJQrf31CwWhlvl6MfcpRg1ththZV3UMHpOR0ReyAMQouzS8uNXJkD3ZJWZzeQbY20CckHqW7MPeMMWykYdqQ58eZlZeEGvpItnSiT-xdu5eF1JqU__NR5Fw0/s320/_NPG0570-1.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535200263854023538" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>So it was only natural that we would all decide to ride together and finish together.</div><div><br /></div><div>On the long stretches we pacelined, with the "A" riders taking rotations in front, and "B" riders drafting. On long climbs drafting does not help, so the B's would inevitably get dropped. We would then regroup at all the rest-stops. Anyway the gaps were only a few minutes. It was fun. And it strengthened group cohesion and fostered camaraderie. That's what a club is all about.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6pFD0XczVtdyymzl_X8T_CrdtJYa7s00maPR34m1ZTYPsLc69qsFPhMlJ5WimJlUCb7-aOqbnf3bAgAiCZTLeBTF6tkjAkeUpr8EYCukm8Y4A4rDs-P5d-3V-kE1AkG5YdJdhxtg6-WQ/s1600/DSCN0420.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6pFD0XczVtdyymzl_X8T_CrdtJYa7s00maPR34m1ZTYPsLc69qsFPhMlJ5WimJlUCb7-aOqbnf3bAgAiCZTLeBTF6tkjAkeUpr8EYCukm8Y4A4rDs-P5d-3V-kE1AkG5YdJdhxtg6-WQ/s400/DSCN0420.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535209806704814498" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 310px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>To be further continued. (Mandy G.)</div>AdoboVelo Cyclisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11166972850576478584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399788279623015271.post-15950608191456058732010-11-01T20:42:00.000-07:002010-11-08T16:09:56.076-08:00Part1-Death Valley Oct 30 Century & Double Century Post-Ride Report (by Mandy G)<div>The Adobos were excited. On the eve of the ride, they pose here for photos. The following day they would ride <a href="http://www.adventurecorps.com/deathvalley/2010/2010dvfall.html">ADVENTURECORPS</a>' 2010 Fall Death Valley Double Century (some will do the century), one of a series of tough ride organized by ex-RAAM finisher and cycling evangelist Chris Kostman. The course features 10,000 feet of climbing, including the crater and Hell's Gate. For this ride, Chris Kostman hires an ambulance (which is very expensive in the middle of nowhere).</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWjX6HhZzWxfNrokx7cj6siUEeYf7xzBzLh6gPXMvh69h7Myg_DN2gX72qiGGY0dfXTaX3OBFKk0DvX0JzaKv8G0poUWRUFjY495-mIKjtX59TC4QkpB24GmoMf0GIiS6RnhpnPyOquIo/s1600/DVD+sign.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 186px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWjX6HhZzWxfNrokx7cj6siUEeYf7xzBzLh6gPXMvh69h7Myg_DN2gX72qiGGY0dfXTaX3OBFKk0DvX0JzaKv8G0poUWRUFjY495-mIKjtX59TC4QkpB24GmoMf0GIiS6RnhpnPyOquIo/s320/DVD+sign.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535172201625325362" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Francis set the tone before the ride: "We ride as a group, and finish as a group." Just like the drama last year.</div>---------<br />So first let me narrate the drama of last year. In 2009, at this same ride, one of the riders missed a crucial turn going to the crater, which is one of the required checkpoints. If you don't get checked in, you don't get ride credit. All that riding for no credit would kinda' suck, wouldn't it? So if you miss a turn, you have to ride back and make sure you check in. That rider was me, Mandy.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><b>Oct. 2009 Death Valley Double Century</b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><b>Rosalie, Victor</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span"><b>*</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span"><b>, Louie N., Mandy, Ricky</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span"><b>*</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span"><b>, Pete, Francis, Manny</b> (</span><span class="Apple-style-span"><i>*century</i></span><span class="Apple-style-span">)</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaD5SIyKLyZyCXpDnrShxZS6CVh05P48_Uyeo6aIes4OeblcdBH-vSmgPaZPxrOkbJRCN5WSKbUm8zm5dCDHLov5VJVJfuyPWN8Sr94ljN6EWHA7RvoZyUyYZDylp0f5f54P0BTLJls1c/s320/DVD2009.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535161212102981650" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><div>I (along with Louie N) were debuting our first double century then, in Oct 2009. In my excitement, on the downhill after Scotty's Castle (Mile # 126), I broke away from the group. I was a quarter mile in front, going fast downhill, and missed the turn leading to the crater. After 2 miles, I realized I missed the turn because no one was behind me. Later I learned that Francis tried to chase me, and was shouting until it hurt. But I was so far ahead. So Francis let me be. When I realized my mistake, I u-turned to look for the road leading to the crater, and made ANOTHER WRONG TURN into Mesquite Camp, a 3-mile downhill that reached a dead-end. I had to CLIMB back to the main road, and ride the opposite way (away from homd finish line) to find the correct turn. I was kicking my self. I thought my chances of now completing the ride on time were toast, because I'm not really a strong rider.</div><div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><b>Adobos during the morning portion of the ride</b></span></span></span></div></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjKBKih1pG8oUgcKKJurZ62vVhok91GxCAQRV5P3zda3Ovd6nkwBYokWqivk9cXGGFPaRom0t0maQRsRCO1Hfxwz9zycG0OmnwvKOrgVy53cXhyphenhypheniOAUfulhXd297Af4lutbrLlKRUAJRU/s1600/DVD2009Flats.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjKBKih1pG8oUgcKKJurZ62vVhok91GxCAQRV5P3zda3Ovd6nkwBYokWqivk9cXGGFPaRom0t0maQRsRCO1Hfxwz9zycG0OmnwvKOrgVy53cXhyphenhypheniOAUfulhXd297Af4lutbrLlKRUAJRU/s320/DVD2009Flats.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535165181832891250" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Finally I found the road to the crater, but lost a lot of time and energy. I saw the other Adobos coming down from the crater, heading home. I still had to climb to the crater to get checked in. Francis turned to join me. If he hadn't, I would've turned around, because I was at the edge of my capabilities, and I had no familiarity with what was ahead. I was going 3 MPH on the climb to the crater. At one point I even veered onto the gravel shoulder and fell to the ground. I was already wasted and close to quitting. But Francis said we still had enough time. So I carried on. At the top, the volunteer recognized Francis, but took one look at my ghostly expression, and asked Francis if I was in any shape to finish. Francis replied yes, he knew my capacity, and said we were going to finish.<br /><br />Meanwhile, the other Adobos WITHOUT HESITATION waited for me at the corner of the main road for almost an hour! They chatted and told jokes as they waited, with the sun setting into dark. They were oblivious to the fact that they were risking their very own chances of making the cut-off time at 12 midnight. If they missed the cut off time, they would be DNF'd (Did Not Finish).<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><b>Adobos bored waiting 45 mins. at bottom of Ube-Hebe Crater Road for one of their riders</b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBTRjipZIcq8bAwpBb83c5Tlu8-REIMUkDUESBtcp-3T6VHOB7IykN3ZmTmR-0RGBiBEmFhbzCU-I1p5o421RmuaPhAXHyY9a7pf4b3YOLy5IQSbJCE5JPJ0hYszQkP7RQLTk9hGFrC1k/s320/DVD+Waiting.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535161207262660802" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span></div><div><br />It was past 7pm by the time I rejoined them. There was still 70 miles to go and a whole lot of climbing to do. I would never forget them: FRANCIS, PETE, MANNY, LOUIE, ROSALIE. That was in 2009. They waited for me. When I rejoined them, I felt the pressure to finish, because they put themselves on the line. I had to haul ass now.<br /><br />Francis said we had to be at Mud Canyon (the start of the 7-mile climb) no later than 9PM. That meant covering over 35 miles in 2 hours. Francis rode with me, while the others went ahead. Thanks to a long downhill, I made it to the Mud Canyon rest-stop at EXACTLY 9PM. The other Adobos already got there way way earlier, and were enjoying hot Cup O Noodle soup. </div><div><br /></div><div>I was hungry, but Francis told me not to stop, we had no time. He said I had to reach the top of hell's Gate at 11pm. Once you reach the top, then you have exactly 1 hours to cover 20 miles (9 miles downhill, 11 miles rollers). But I wanted soup. BUT NO SOUP FOR ME.<br /><br />Like a domestique, Francis took my bottles and re-filled them. The others, when they saw that I wasn't stopping for soup, gulped their soup and jumped on their bikes.<br /><br />On the climb up Hell's Gate, I stopped over 20 times from exhaustion. It took me 2 hours to get to the top, I arrived at exactly 11 PM. There was no time. We took off almost immediately after that. </div><div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span">Finish Line 12 Midnight: Manny, Mandy, Rosalie, Louie N., Pete, Francis</span></span></span></b></div></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjIXg0QQkyZR-6sZz-oh2EFc3FYP3QnTlpn9Sj37FoXIhyPCwAk8ofh8X4jaQl1KJhpBmrP3UD4fbHOMEYupv9oF0NOIrOeDaGU8s2W_FVFm94-72hfnV9nwBebMR_JCnLsG0npgbU4vY/s1600/Finish2009.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjIXg0QQkyZR-6sZz-oh2EFc3FYP3QnTlpn9Sj37FoXIhyPCwAk8ofh8X4jaQl1KJhpBmrP3UD4fbHOMEYupv9oF0NOIrOeDaGU8s2W_FVFm94-72hfnV9nwBebMR_JCnLsG0npgbU4vY/s320/Finish2009.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535161217495266194" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><u><br /></u></span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjIXg0QQkyZR-6sZz-oh2EFc3FYP3QnTlpn9Sj37FoXIhyPCwAk8ofh8X4jaQl1KJhpBmrP3UD4fbHOMEYupv9oF0NOIrOeDaGU8s2W_FVFm94-72hfnV9nwBebMR_JCnLsG0npgbU4vY/s1600/Finish2009.jpg"></a>With no time to spare, there was no rest for me. We downhilled 9 miles. Then there was 11 miles of flats and gentle rollers to the finish line. At first I took off, only to bonk after only less than a mile on the flats. </div><div><br /></div><div>Everyone was now in jeopardy of missing the cut-off if they were to wait for me. I kept thinking, if they were to miss the cut-off, they would be DNF'd. Finally Francis said, go-go-go! Every-man-for-himself. I'm glad they did so. I would feel so guilty if they all DNF'd. </div><div><br /></div><div>The white van of ADVENTURECORPS was cruising back and forth along that stretch, radioing status in to the finish line. "Hey there's still a bunch of Adobos here". </div><div><br /></div><div>Every time the white van passed me, they asked if I was OK. I must have been going really slow for their taste. Maybe they thought they should radio the ambulance. I would nod my head to signal I'm OK. I wasn't going to ride in the van after having gone this far. The truth is I know my limit, and I was feeling good, relaxed, but just slow.</div><div><br /></div><div>So next time I saw their headlights behind me, I just gave them a thumbs up. Then they would pass me.</div><div><br /></div><div>In the end, EVERYONE made the the cut-off with only minutes to spare. That is, everyone except me. I missed it by 3 minutes! But Chris Kostman took consideration of the fact that I got lost. So he credited me the ride anyway. No DNF for me. </div><div><br /></div><div>I shook every stranger's hand at the finish line from sheer joy. I vowed to do better the next time around.</div><div><br />----------<br />Now for the 2010 edition.</div><div> </div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEbr140HKKrYJjyjvyc86p3NPXldZ4o3E8IMb9QIBtRSq68palY8sktKf4w_th7-I6MTvoAuavxCffHqshrSmTozSudYvDmKfQHxSiAwMoxT_jRI1V3_LyKSV7w8rMpCswDXRwE7KXwAY/s400/Snowwhite.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535167142655021042" style="float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; cursor: pointer; width: 139px; height: 279px; " /></span><div>Rosalie was dressed in Holloween costume as Snow White. </div><div>The <span class="Apple-style-span"><b>Red</b></span><b>-<span class="Apple-style-span">White</span>-<span class="Apple-style-span">Blue</span>-<span class="Apple-style-span">Yellow</span></b> colors of her dress coordinated perfectly with the Adobo kit.<br />-----------------</div><div><br /></div><div>In any race, the half-way mark is always a good place to take stock of the situation. So I'll start in the middle of the story.<br /><br />For us week-end cyclists, a century ride would be a very good day's work. So when we arrived at the <b>Mile-100 </b>rest stop in Nevada, somewhere in the middle of the Mojave Desert, the unspoken lament among us riders must have been "<i><span class="Apple-style-span">Dang it, this is a good day's work, I don't need to keep riding anymore.</span></i>" But it was not to be, because another 100 miles was left to be pedalled.<br /><br /></div><div>Although we were tired and cold (temps were in high 60's's, skies overcast), we had a lot of "internal eneregy" because we were riding as a group. Just like last year. The camaraderie was very tight. We were all looking out for each other. Morale was very high.<br /><br />Even if we got splintered on hills, we always re-grouped at all rest-stops, and that made a huge difference to everyone's morale. The slower riders felt assured because they could tuck in behind the draft. The stronger riders took pride in riding in front to shepherd the weak riders. We were carrying the Adobo colors with pride.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><i>Adobos have too much fun / They wait at all the stops for their dropped riders / Here they're pretending to raise the flag (ala Iwo Jima) at Stovepipe Wells (Mile # 25)</i></span></span></span></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN8PX9ZkXtwW8ariz8LFURuedprcu6IbAEbCxRGJ7YpOTjfyytZFJctcztuT2w15uU1DB82GJ8c-z3hzyI4io3GWyZrSUzqKTKHp2oKgaTz7tq7CQs6SSfZK_R859loNbrveNhNHexlTk/s1600/SPW.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN8PX9ZkXtwW8ariz8LFURuedprcu6IbAEbCxRGJ7YpOTjfyytZFJctcztuT2w15uU1DB82GJ8c-z3hzyI4io3GWyZrSUzqKTKHp2oKgaTz7tq7CQs6SSfZK_R859loNbrveNhNHexlTk/s400/SPW.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535168983012493458" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 400px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>From the Mile-100 rest-stop, the next stop was Scotty's Castle, and it was going to require a GROUP EFFORT because of headwinds.<br /><br />A double-paceline was formed. There was a slight incline, and strong headwind. The pace was 15 MPH, and it was tough for the tired ones who were trying to hang on in the back. Occasionally the back riders would fade, and the middle riders would yell to the front to slow down, and back riders would regain contact.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">Not yet a paceline (jockeying for photo)</span></b></span></span></div></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga5GA-6h5Q7ZJyJvmSmYUogqWds4hL7TiSABgqDfy5wM_D64cRTm3RZ1swuUiYbBA4UvAPan24k9klHvyTQvKcTGyqWzsD4rVuk9xny3gGPcUnrox7yW8AkRL5JeS27xsEplPRUs_HenM/s1600/paceline-1.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga5GA-6h5Q7ZJyJvmSmYUogqWds4hL7TiSABgqDfy5wM_D64cRTm3RZ1swuUiYbBA4UvAPan24k9klHvyTQvKcTGyqWzsD4rVuk9xny3gGPcUnrox7yW8AkRL5JeS27xsEplPRUs_HenM/s320/paceline-1.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535170865860315506" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 183px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>After yoyoing like this many times, the back-riders JULIUS and SHANGRILA (a new member they met at the Grand Tour in September) faded back for good. Soon we could not see them when we looked back. So LOUIE F, a strong rider, sacrificed himself and dropped back to them, and he pulled them the rest of the way to Scotty's Castle.<br /><br />Meanwhile, in the front group, FRANCIS was pulling a wicked pace in the headwind. Behind him were ELPIDIO, PETE, JESSE, DENNIS, and REGGIE (our very good friend from Sta Clarita Velo club). And right on their wheel behind them were 4 other riders barely struggling to hang on: LOUIE N, MANNY, ROSALIE, and myself (Mandy).<br /><br />After several miles Francis decided to kick it up a notch. In that instant, 3 riders (Manny, Rosalie and me) got separated from the main pack by a few bike lengths. That was enough to feel the brunt of the headwind. The gap quickly grew within seconds.<br /><br />As any veteran paceline cyclist knows, if you get separated from the pack, you have to strike quickly and summon some kind of "turbo" (if you have any left) to regain contact with the paceline, because every second of that you face the wind alone without a draft takes precious energy. Drafting is worth an extra 3-5 miles per hour for the same amount of effort. So if you get even half-a-bike-length of separation, you must react quickly to close the gap.<br /><br />So Manny stood up, turned on his turbo, and bridged the gap. I was watching all of this. I was right behind Rosalie, and I saw the gap grow even larger. I was worried about losing the paceline for good, so I stood up, summoned some energy, and rode up next to Rosalie, and signalled her to stick to my wheel. I intended to bridge the gap, and bring her with me in the process. I kept looking back to make sure my speed was within Rosalie's grasp. But I saw the main pack pulling further away. At that point, I decided to accelerate with or without Rosalie. She dropped back. I managed to bridge the gap back to the paceline.<br /><br />But that effort would cost me a lot. My legs and lungs burned. Obviously I didn't belong in this paceline. I paid for it only a few minutes later, when I said to Louie N. that I was wasted, and that I wanted to drop back. I was checking to see how he felt. He told me to hang in there. So I did. We still had 15 miles to go. But a few minutes later, Francis saw a group of 4 cyclists up ahead, and kicked the pace even higher to overtake them. I tried to keep up, to the point that I felt like throwing up. I had no choice but to drop back. The paceline pull ahead. I could only watch. Bye-bye main pack. Bye-bye DRAFT. </div><div><br /></div><div>They overtook that group of 4. Francis pulled the main Adobo pack all the way to Scotty's Castle.<br /><br />Although I separated from Francis' group, I also overtook that group of 4, but only briefly. Later I faded, and that group of 4 caught up with me. The leader invited me to join them and share pulls. We became a merry group of 5, and took turns pulling in front.<br /><br />Later we saw Manny riding solo. He had also gotten separated from Francis' group. So our merry group of 5 became 6 after swallowing Manny. By the time Manny's turn came to pull, it was the downhill to Scotty's Castle. Lucky bastard.<br /><br />The Adobos all regrouped at Scotty's Castle rest stop, Mile # 126. Thanks to Louie F's effort, the last group of Adobos did not lose too much time. We were 1 hour ahead of last year's pace. It was 4 PM.<br /><br />----------------------------<br /><b>NINE HOURS EARLIER</b>: At 7AM, the start of the ride,we had GRIM WEATHER. It was raining. The road was slick and muddy. It was somewhat chilly.<br /><br /><i>To be continued. (Mandy G.)</i></div></div>AdoboVelo Wire Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14564509633139075984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399788279623015271.post-41601046369477791172010-10-10T15:57:00.000-07:002010-11-05T18:04:55.220-07:00Post-ride report of 2010 Giro D'Barkada by Louie RiveraNice day to ride where the temperature @ 0800 was to be in low 60's and highs of about 82 degrees at Mile Road Park in STOCKTON. Among the participating teams/group that I recall seeing were TRACY, LUZVIMIN, TROPA, F.A.C.T., SIKLISTA, SIKADS and us “D 5 ADOBOS “: EL, DEO, AL, RONEL and MYSELF. (Not in age order). Here's :ouie mixing up with our Norhtern counteparts.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ZnivUAtdbXN56c8Kqy0b6z7PC4wCzd3CXtkRzjDgQsStsmrTwJlsLb_gGiUh12LvOJi_HyCPkY2QQ_iviXGEIqz0z_SEu7t1dlzyEzdKX4HPFhlkpwxw5Thdb1Fd3V9iO6QyHLVvxbdx/s1600/Louie+GdB+Oct+2010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ZnivUAtdbXN56c8Kqy0b6z7PC4wCzd3CXtkRzjDgQsStsmrTwJlsLb_gGiUh12LvOJi_HyCPkY2QQ_iviXGEIqz0z_SEu7t1dlzyEzdKX4HPFhlkpwxw5Thdb1Fd3V9iO6QyHLVvxbdx/s320/Louie+GdB+Oct+2010.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>We rolled out shortly past 0900 after a brief introduction to the teams, Astigs and silent prayer. For the first 20 miles, everybody was pretty much together and not surprising to see the road to be so smooth, flat and it almost looked like it was swept the night before just for the event. In spite of it, I heard of one incident of possible B.C.B. that must have occurred on the second 20 miles. The group was divided after the first 20 miles with the first group being able to withstand average of 25 miles/hour as it was announced. Of course all the ADOBO Velos were there but I had to carefully hide from the wind, not knowing the course and unexpected surges that may arise. By this time arm warmers, knee warmers and wind breakers are off. I started to feel the heat too… the heat from the speed!!!!! Here's a pic from the park with the ADOBO Velos.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihjSVer2gvLBZtzCtMsMS6wFcS0vLtT1Fof0G_IpSkzX7-7YHO3JVbiuzsuWpamoSuJo1hhseUPnDRkfzBFEJoWIrJrP3KhDIxP2vZhOAUTJ_wX-gxFH_YtqnzhPFX7l0W7ZfG_HdEa-94/s1600/Louie+2+GdB+Oct+2010-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="203" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihjSVer2gvLBZtzCtMsMS6wFcS0vLtT1Fof0G_IpSkzX7-7YHO3JVbiuzsuWpamoSuJo1hhseUPnDRkfzBFEJoWIrJrP3KhDIxP2vZhOAUTJ_wX-gxFH_YtqnzhPFX7l0W7ZfG_HdEa-94/s400/Louie+2+GdB+Oct+2010-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>I recalled reading the cyclometer of 47 miles after the second stop thinking that there is only over 15 miles to go but I underestimated it because at the end it was a total of 68+ miles. At the end we are proud of Deo to take the sprint showing how to get a top speed of 40 miles an hour. Don't ask him the chain ring/cassette combination cause he won't tell you. It’s proprietary.<br />
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Back at the park roughly 1330 and by now recovery nutrition is ready and I could feel my blood sugar is low and getting lower by the minute. Frank Gatula, wife Salome, and the whole organization of Luzvimin and everybody who helped make this event possible. A BIG THANK YOU! We had raffles too and I even scored a cycling cap with a VELLUM water bottle. El donated a nice watch, only for someone to pick El's own raffle number. He ended giving the number to Ronel who received the item from "Sir Maui" and I believe the item ended in the fast hands of George (son of Maui). That’s the end, I heard. Six hours of trip back home thereafter, well worth it.<br />
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Louie R.AdoboVelo Wire Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14564509633139075984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399788279623015271.post-83753604271753641822010-08-28T22:04:00.000-07:002010-08-28T22:04:52.388-07:00Tracy Rider's Windmill Ride<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWUG5SGqkUszzxB2p_JkCrsCtMrZpvQvACen5yQYhCJhDg43OvsF33IPYw_FCOyTRx0soZTEUKtouk6L7sn0rE4NP9OpaxeHI0FaCZYEmi1hg9TnLfkfXt2CdDWP0inoke8BgBCx0pDyp4/s1600/windmill-416.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWUG5SGqkUszzxB2p_JkCrsCtMrZpvQvACen5yQYhCJhDg43OvsF33IPYw_FCOyTRx0soZTEUKtouk6L7sn0rE4NP9OpaxeHI0FaCZYEmi1hg9TnLfkfXt2CdDWP0inoke8BgBCx0pDyp4/s320/windmill-416.jpg" /></a></div>August 22, 2010. The festivities started on Friday evening as out of town cycling groups had dinner at Island Gourmet Restaurants, Pres. Allen Escobar's ( Tracy Riders) restaurant. The food was delicious. You know it's good when it's as good as your mom's cooking. Louis Rivera and I, however, arrived late at 6:30 pm and <br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">just missed on meeting our fellow Pinoy cyclists. Allen and Raymond (fellow Tracy Rider) were kind enough to keep the doors open to give us a warm meal. What a great host! There we spoke of the upcoming event and found out there would indeed be 100 riders for the next day's main event.</div><br />
Louis and I checked in to Hampton Inn, one of the sponsor. Sure enough, our room was comp'ed. Kuya El gave us his room since he and his group, including Deo, and Francis, would arrive super early for the ride, at 2:30 am, Saturday. Hehehe. Roy "Tisoy" came to town at 1:00 am.<br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">After getting settled, went for a few beers and hoisted our glasses with Fort Gascon (Pres.) , Angelo both from FACT Siclista, Fresno. Also joining us were Legendary Maui Reynante and his son George from Luzvimin. (Forgot Maui's blond GF's name, sorry)</div>The mass start was from Thoming Park and sure enough, there were 100 riders. All the Pinoy cycling groups from Northern Cal were present: MyTropa, FACT (Siclista), Luzvimin, local cyclists and of course, the host club, Tracy Riders. For a first inaugural fun ride, they really pull it off by having so many participants. The weather was predicted to have a high of 86 and low of 52. Everyone was expecting a scorching hot ride as we gained elevation. However, the clouds held all morning making for a pleasant ride.<br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">The ride was supposed to be a fun 51.51 ride with total ascent of 3063 ft. Three SAG vehicles were in tow with a motorcycle guide to keep everyone in check. As we approached the base of the dreaded Patterson Pass with 8 miles of ascent and 2100 of elevation gain, it was abruptly announced that there will be a KOM based on Category levels! Well, no one wanted to reveal their Category so it was then decided to make it an open category for an overall winner. Thankfully the climb was cool, weather and scenery wise. You could hear the blades of the windmills go whoosh, whoosh up on the hills. As we got exposed in the open areas, there was cross wind, head wind 15- 20 mph. You're struggling to climb and wind tries to knock you down. On one of the rollers, you can only go 18mph max on a steep 12% downhill. The last 300 meters to Patterson summit was greeted by a 20% grade. This is where Deo and a local rider (puti) battled like Contador and Schleck for KOM honors. Valiantly, Deo lost by a wheel - his nemesis was better geared and knew the local mountain. A battle well fought.</div><br />
The entire peloton regrouped at the first feeding station at mile 23, looped around Flynn Road, descended down County Road 5822, then returned to the same feeding station, now mile 32. The Adobovelo peloton decided not stop at the feeding station. There you could here the rest of the cyclists at the rest stop <br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">saying, "Eto na sila" (They are here!) Everyone scrammble on their bikes and started to give chase. It's just pure cycling delight for all the hard work from grinding the gears going uphill was all over. Ahead was pure 18 miles of smooth as silk, freshly laid asphalt down hill from then on. 20>28 > 35> 40 > 48 mph. Francis, Roy, Deo, El, Louis would bomb down the hill. ( I decided to drop, thinking erroneously that we were doing another uphill loop. By the time I realized, I was all alone, waaahhh) Down Altamont Pass we all went. Groups of ten riders would zoom down the pass at break neck speeds. Your compact crank would be hyper-spinning by now. Wish you had a standard instead of a compact. Why is everyone riding so fast? They must be hungry for food!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">A party with all Pinoy fixings awaited us at the finish line at Thoming Park. There was lechon, kilawin, kaldereta, dinuguan, pinakbet, pancit, pichi-pichi, puto, bibingka, sa-malamig ( Melon juice), rice and so much more food that I forgot to mention! Food was catered by Pres. Al Escobar's restaurant, Island </div>Gourmet. There was music with a DJ. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhruB58ZZHftp0wbhhtRNZGD6jfomiSOWe2homdcv1jPZscU_F6gF4L-TYM08D5KJHcaDV9Z0WLCFsuG9byRBHbQudgfBFtMOdU86FE3wD_nMW-7GPzdlhj67_wq1uExz9LB98Qnm-a9Vas/s1600/windmill-635.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhruB58ZZHftp0wbhhtRNZGD6jfomiSOWe2homdcv1jPZscU_F6gF4L-TYM08D5KJHcaDV9Z0WLCFsuG9byRBHbQudgfBFtMOdU86FE3wD_nMW-7GPzdlhj67_wq1uExz9LB98Qnm-a9Vas/s320/windmill-635.jpg" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Kuya El and Deo met and reminisced with their old cycling buddies, Maui Reynante, Rommie, Steve, and Rozel Tupaz. At the end, visiting clubs were recognized with a plaque of appreciation. We said our goodbye's and thanked our host and headed back home.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Adobos you must go to this ride next year, don't miss it!</div>On behalf of Adobovelo, we would like to thank our gracious host for, President <br />
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Allen Escobar and the rest of the Tracy Riders for having a successful, most memorable, not to be missed, must do it again, most definitely fun ride.<br />
Dennis L. GorospeAdoboVelo Wire Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14564509633139075984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399788279623015271.post-13806151139273370552010-02-14T20:36:00.000-08:002010-02-14T20:37:27.162-08:00Post-Ride Report by Vice-President Dennis Gorospe<span style="color: cyan; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It was a perfect riding day with 14 ADOBO Velos at the start line. Jonas and company brought another 8 friends with him including Marie Rose, an ultra long distance rider and triathelete too. Actual ride started at 7:45 am with temperature at 49 F which gradually warmed up to 80 F as the day progressed. Our group stayed together for most of the ride while catching faster groups along the way. Long trains of riders would pass zooming up to 48mph could not drop us (on the downhills). Banning and Eric from Banning's Bike also stayed with our group for most of the time. </span><br />
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<span style="color: cyan; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After a slow grind on the first 15 miles, most of the ride is just rollers specially after the 25 mile marker. From there, Adobos really showed their stuff. Al "Cavendish", El "DiesEL", De"Olympian" were leading the attacks. After the 50 mile marker, another large peloton of over 50 cyclist cruised at 28 mph on the flat with headwind. We hung on to the peloton until we reached our own Adobevelo SAG stop at mile 68 with Banning & Eric and Company enjoying our Adobo hospitality. Thanks to my wife Frances and kids for providing Superfood drinks, water, fruits and snacks.</span><br />
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<span style="color: cyan; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Total ride time with the whole group finished at 5 hours and 45 minutes. Actual end time was at 2:45 pm. Great job everyone! But check it out, Jun Usi had to go solo because of family commitments and started and 7:00 am and ended at 12:45, with SAG! You are a true ASTIG! We missed Jun at the post-ride BBQ.</span><br />
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<span style="color: cyan; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Great ride overall with perfect weather, great friends and everyone finished with no injuries. </span><br />
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<span style="color: cyan; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Day ended with BBQ at the Gorospe house in La Quinta with of Chicken Adobo as the main course, of course.</span><br />
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<span style="color: cyan; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A warm welcome goes to new Adobovelo member Jesse from San Fernando Valley and congratulations on his first century ride. Congratulations to Louis Fernandez on his first "Official" Century ride. Riders who were present were: Victor C, El, Deo, Al V, Gil, Frank N, Jesse (SFV), Dennis G, Ryan, June Grape, Louie , Louis F, Julius, Jonas, Russell, Jun U. Sorry, no pictures of Jun Usi because he went solo.</span><br />
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<span style="color: cyan; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Till next our next century ride...</span><br />
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<span style="color: cyan; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Link to photos of TdPS below:</span><br />
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<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/adobovelo/TdPS201002"><span style="color: cyan; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">http://picasaweb.google.com/adobovelo/TdPS201002</span></a><span style="color: cyan; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">#</span><br />
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<span style="color: cyan; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Dennis G.</span>AdoboVelo Wire Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14564509633139075984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399788279623015271.post-28434206428078920432009-12-06T14:29:00.000-08:002009-12-07T17:15:38.847-08:00Tour De Francis Winter Edition PostRide Comments<em><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></em><br /><div align="left"><em><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ccccff;"><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/adobovelo/TDFCastaic20091205"><strong>Click here to see PHOTOS</strong></a></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#ff0000;">From Rino Crisostomo (Adobovelo):</span></em><br /><span style="color:#ffff00;">again, you did an awesome well organized ride....splendid job down to the last detail!<br />to sir francis and his family...without them this ride won't materialize. ...Thank you so much!<br />to all sags and supports...without them the strugglers won't make it...Thanks a lot guys!<br />special thanks to pres arden who stick with me all the way...for sir louie n and sir ricky who waited for me...for sir louie for the cokes and encouragements. ..for sir victor for bringing up my bike..for sir francis' daughter for an extraordinary service for all the riders(the chicken adobo is the best).<br />for the Adobovelo family...more power to you guys!!!<br />on behalf of the cycloneteam. com...Thank you very much!!!<br />THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME, RINO !!!</span><br />pls check, <a href="http://www.cycloneteam.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.cycloneteam.com/</a> and <a href="http://www.cookielee.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.cookielee.com/</a>!<br /><span style="color:#ff9900;"><em>From Reggie Ignacio (MMCC):</em></span><br /><span style="color:#ffff00;">Francis and Adobo's again in behalf of MMCC family we thank you very much. Another epic ride!! Salamat po!</span><br /><span style="color:#3333ff;"><em>From Thomas Barron (Santa Clarita Velo):</em></span><br /><span style="color:#ffff00;">I would like to thank you for such a well organized, friendly and memorable event.On the ride and at the BBQ I met Francis and thanked him personally, but I would also like to extend my congratulations to you and the ride committee and volunteers for your terrific success.The food was fantastic (as advertised) and very welcome on the hard and cold course.As the former president of the Santa Clarita Velo, and Race Director at the Devil's Punchbowl RR, I have had direct experience with the challenges you faced in putting this event together - and doing it with style.</span><br /><span style="color:#ffff00;"></span><br /><span style="color:#ffff00;">Cheers,</span><br /><span style="color:#ffff00;">--TMB-- Thomas Barron</span><br /><span style="color:#ffff00;">Member Santa Clarita Velo Club</span> </div><div align="left">USCF 2702 <a href="http://www.santaclaritavelo.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.santaclaritavelo.com/</a><br /><em>From Michael Goodman</em>:<br /><span style="color:#ffff00;">Hi,</span><br /><span style="color:#ffff00;">I rode the Three Lakes Tour Yesterday. Great ride. Great support. Really fun, enthusiastic club and ride support. In short I had a great time. I'm wiped out, but it was loads of fun. I'm very impressed by your club. You all seem like a fun-loving group of hard-core riders. It was lots of fun to join you all on the ride yesterday...Thaks for putting on the event.</span><br /><span style="color:#ffff00;"></span><br /><span style="color:#ffff00;">-Michael Goodman</span><br /><a href="mailto:megmtb@gmail.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" ymailto="mailto:megmtb@gmail.com"><span style="color:#3333ff;">megmtb@gmail.com</span></a><br /><em><span style="color:#ff0000;">From William "Legstrong" Aligue (Adobovelo):</span></em><br /><span style="color:#ffff00;">Thank you to Francis and family and all the volunteers that make this Tour de Francis to be a succesful one. We had a lot of fun, food , climb, pain, cramps, you name it TdF have them all.</span><br /><span style="color:#ffff00;">Congratulations to all the finisher!!! The training ride that we did paid off, the Adobo's finish the whole ride very strong.</span><br /><span style="color:#ffff00;">Congratulations!!!</span><br /><em>From TJ:</em><br /><span style="color:#ffff00;">Thanks for all your work on today's awesome Tdf! I loved it!</span><br /><em><span style="color:#ffffff;">From Obie:</span></em></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ffff00;">What a rocking group...super ride & support! Big Thanks!</span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ffff00;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ffff00;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ff0000;"><em></em></span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ff0000;"><em></em></span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ff0000;"><em>From Gil:</em></span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ffff00;">I second that sentiment William!... Francis you and your kids are the 'BOMB' - Thanx for making this event possible and to the great collection of volunteers - you guys "ROCK!".Also, I'd like to shoot special thanx to Louie R. for the personal support.</span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ffff00;">-CHEERS!!! gil</span></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ff0000;"><em></em></span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ff0000;"><em></em></span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ff0000;"><em></em></span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ff0000;"><em></em></span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ff0000;"><em>From Tim Claudio (Adobovelo):</em></span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ffff00;">I want to extend my Thanks to Francis and family and to all the support volunteers that made for another epic event.<br />I am privileged and honored to be a part of the Adobo family.<br />also,I will be out town during the Christmas party so,<br />I also want to extend my best wishes to everyone for this holiday season.<br />I will see you all after the first of the year.<br />All the best,<br /></span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ffff00;">timCLAUDIO</span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ffff00;"></span></div><div align="left"><em><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></em></div><div align="left"><em><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></em></div><div align="left"><em><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></em></div><div align="left"><em><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></em></div><div align="left"><em><span style="color:#ff0000;">From Ryan Roldan (Adobovelo):</span></em></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ffff00;">To Francis and Company who make this annual event another bragging rights. Kodus... </span></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"><em><span style="color:#ffffff;">From Vertical Bob:</span></em></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ffff00;">I had a great time yesterday as always with the fun bunch from Adobo Velo Thanks for a great ride. See ya on the next one.</span></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;"></span></em></div><div align="left"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;"></span></em></div><div align="left"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;"></span></em></div><div align="left"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;"></span></em></div><div align="left"><em><span style="color:#ff9900;">From Manny (MMCC):</span></em></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ffff00;">On behalf of the mmcc, we thank everyone for another epic wonderful ride. Adobovelo and company always offer xclnt hospitality. special mention to Francis, Rosalie, the kids and the rest of the Adobo family, another job well done!! we salute you all!!</span></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em></em></div><div align="left"><em><span style="color:#ffffff;">From Roland Sunga:</span></em></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ffff00;">First and foremost - I would like to thank, you, Francis, and all of the volunteers for a great event. I've been a long time cyclist and a triathlete , it's been my dream to ride with a bunch of Filipinos, that was fulfilled yesterday. Again, my gratitude.</span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ffff00;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ffff00;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ffffff;"><em>From Dana (Incycle-Cowrider</em>):</span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ffff00;">Thank you for putting on such a well organized event. The ride will go down as a must ride for me every year. By the way, my buddies that do countless events said that your after meal spread was 2nd to none. Yes, Shouts out to Rosalie & Francis and the support crew!!!</span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ffff00;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ffff00;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ffff00;"></span></div>AdoboVelo Wire Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14564509633139075984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399788279623015271.post-45730081428154845502009-11-23T07:34:00.000-08:002009-11-23T08:28:19.315-08:00TdF Castaic Lake Winter Edition Pre-Ride/Worker's Ride 11-21-2009The weather during the ride was very cold, lowest 38degrees to as high as 44degrees. Postride temperature was 55 degrees. It was mostly sunny and clear with clouds and thick fog along the horizon. Strong cross and head wind around 10-20mph with some wind gust during the first climb on Lake Hughes Rd. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407327687735948706" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9kCUGytX5FOpYXYlTReqRx7d8_hMZuy8xycjYlZQi4wExTtzsy_p75mF_unIwK_19BdttIpenMXyc0Mf8Ii0lIb__HcavzoZUBIBXO9tmF8tjlqBI_T8vMT9lWGqBfbLnkZTWjApWxCcz/s320/IMG_9658.JPG" /><br /><br /><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407327690745358898" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJkbhno-rpQYH5FDkiMMSTwsi2Bd6oYB6mk0VcCmCJIaLIL0YOH_Dq0U9OyfDF5GicGjFNMSV-ZZfi-EPaMjCOeFMD3diFhORIYICV83X6d75Ili3EXy_o9hnqR3uXbeFl-K6FUPjMX5rw/s320/IMG_9677.JPG" /></div><div>Pocket of chilly air and no wind in the canyons. Very strong wind with wind chill factor along Pine Canyon going towards Three Points. Riders who completed 90miles up to Ridge Point avoiding the descend to Quail Lake were Francis Ignacio (TdF Organizer), Pete Primavera, Ed Morente, Manny Amit, Tim Claudio, Joseph Casino and JJ Lopez. Riders who turned around at Three Points completed around 75 miles were Mandy Genato, Imre Udvardy, Pid and Jun Grape.<br /></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407332367599967842" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjJQdjYr0xFSgxhTW5wZSCdeQCogUiETFXUvCLd1dK3Fp4_FEUFtOAcqjOfeJPV8rCuYmNQHhEdZcovOa7IQ7fr7N8_SQbRVGCCvHioPo0mtmpIVmaRIaYKjceCBSsBoI6B4RxBoY2aZM9/s320/IMG_9700.JPG" /></div><div>Kuya Ricky DNF'd at Three Points for medical reasons. He started coughing and felt very congested. Roving Sag Support by Rosalie. Thanks Francis for the PostRide Subway Sandwiches and Sodas. Some who road acclamated to the weather and some could not get warmed up during the ride along HeadWind Pine Canyon. </div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407333168962891298" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYLhPj8j6Ih5aO5G2SXtS_YfdQ2sFjyXPmeARWiPx6RB2DUn1pBRN34Ozo04yL6-008hjipV01oYMgv0WsMPGoIoAwbPPQrIuOsKhbWV576cfebuVyWIDuhxbkC85ZuINLe0UwUUwk665_/s320/IMG_9708.JPG" /><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><em>Rider's Lesson Learned</em></strong></span><br /><span style="color:#3333ff;"><strong>Imre</strong></span>.."Must wear Shoe Covers or Feet Warmers" His feet were freezing cold through out the whole ride.<br /><div><span style="color:#3333ff;"><strong>Tim Claudio</strong></span>.."I couldn't get warm during the ride going towards Three Points" Need to wear face mask or Turtle Fleece, Cover all exposed skin, wear Leg warmer instead of knee warmer.<br /><span style="color:#3333ff;"><strong>JJ Lopez</strong></span>.."I was tired and was not feeling the ride(not giving it all) even though it was a painful ride" He did a training long ride with team LaGrange a week before for 2 days.<br /><strong><span style="color:#3333ff;">Joseph Casino</span></strong> on his compact with 25t...He can handle this Cassette..But for most..highly recommend compact cranks 27t or 29t or triple.<br /><strong><span style="color:#3333ff;">Manny Amit</span></strong>..Broke his chain and got his windjacket caught around his cassette. Must bring extra links and try not to remove windjacket while riding and having one hand on handlebar.. Stop your bike and remove jacket.<br /><span style="color:#3333ff;"><strong>Mandy Genato</strong></span>.. "Rosalie saw me not drinking much".. Must drink even if you're not thirsty and load up on food during the stops since COLD weather burn more calories. Eating and hydrating will keep you going.<br /><span style="color:#3333ff;"><strong>Pid Grape</strong></span>.."I haven't ridden in 2 months" Need to train for this ride. This ride is very mentally and physically challenging.<br /><span style="color:#3333ff;"><strong>Jun Grape</strong></span> "I'm going to turn back to the Park". This was his comment after Lake Elizabeth reststop. I told Jun, "You're strong, you've been riding alot. What's the point of turning back early when this is a training ride with sag to reload?".. Like I said before, you have to be Mentally prepared for this ride. Jun was so greatful that I talked him into going all the way to Three Points. He finished strong.<br /><strong><span style="color:#3333ff;">Ed Morente</span></strong> "Since I'm a runner, this ride was easy on the Lungs and Legs" Cross training besides riding a bike makes you stronger in all ways.<br /><span style="color:#3333ff;"><strong>Pete Primavera</strong></span> "Had so much layers during the climb, it was too hot" Know how much to layer, and when to take off and put back on.<br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;"><strong>Rosalie</strong></span> "I didn't have any extra chain links for Manny" If you are sagging, make sure you have extra chain links in the car, tools for the chain link, and other bike tools that may be needed during mechanical problems..tubes, pumps, tire boot always a must.<br /><span style="color:#3333ff;"><strong>Francis</strong></span>..Speechless! ! I guess that's a good thing..<br /><br />PICS says it all<br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/adobovelo/TdFCastaicWinterEditionPreRideWorkerSRide" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://picasaweb.google.com/adobovelo/TdFCastaicWinterEditionPreRideWorkerSRide</a><br /><br /><br />SEE YA all at TdF...Keep on climbing<br />-ROSALIE</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>AdoboVelo Wire Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14564509633139075984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399788279623015271.post-9398359719772770202009-10-31T19:58:00.000-07:002009-10-31T20:26:02.987-07:003rd Giro 'd Barkada in Stockton hosted by Luzvimin Racing Team<span style="color:#ccffff;">What an adventure that was! One hundred kilometers of pancake flat back roads, 3rd Giro ‘d Barkada hosted by the cast Luzvimin Racing Team of Stockton CA. The cast of ADOBO Velo were Deo Asuncion, El Lardizabal, Rosalie Kneebone, Francis Ignacio, Jonas Mas, and myself. We were surprised when Francis showed up and was confirmed that he participated in the previous day’s Bass Lake Double Century from Fresno. Early that Sunday morning, Mr. Picachu still looked fresh and the first one from us to be ready for the festivities. Here’s a pic of the ADOBO Velo contingent before the start.<br /></span><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398965229785277506" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 237px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdl_CXnfcp7IfNX0IPUQ2AwhDCXWM4crq8ItJdr1D1xty3YaqgLKPFBzQT7GNMbgkRbjTaI2Wjvpn4iDaQD6chFYhjJ1wiumSG9-9JTtdrFhKXDiSwolxfZ0w4xnpv8uCU4nD1nZYK0VYJ/s320/118200993_5nNnC11C.jpg" border="0" /><span style="color:#ccffff;">Frank Gatdula and the staff of GdB got us started with excitement with Pinoy Pride Maui Reynante policing us off Micke Grove Park. My reality set in about NorCal’s Fil-Am clubs that morning and amazed by the numbers once they are all gathered. Off to the start, we were escorted and led by their assigned riders. El unfortunately had a flat in the first mile of the ride but was immediately helped by the support and was able to catch up with the group with no problem.<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398965455750903730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 163px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHHqMvrnd9f6nKEVWPHfkIw58FrdA4TfWTBrvTiHEVpZGVu5Q_sDk7t8U3A5GwfmSwu-HIxBXjaKbTPv0sCQU3d3Fr0t5u_AsfMpHWS4qKvg4qkPjsvph0t5fxPyIJX60E1LPUAy-t9JTe/s320/118200953_r5PghhHJ.jpg" border="0" /><span style="color:#ccffff;">The picture above shows the large number of participants. The pace was at a constant 20mph throughout the ride except for the last 20 miles after the 2nd SAG stop for the first group. The last few miles to the 2nd SAG stop quickly picked up even if the side wind was breaking the peloton into pieces.<br /></span><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398965708411712882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjft_yXPPs-TnX-n_eUvHkBIU-xt9SKS9UqJEj6gs2-cjwf6W15OIlmIvJEhwkMFNJ3S3IoDKa7NRRNySwuwastRlrwMO_OWSLQ29zmihkOfpg-jk2tHQ1TBeCrQBvixzGBpELH301Z_vq0/s320/IMG_0612_resize.JPG" border="0" /><span style="color:#ccffff;">Overall, besides the pic above, it was a talking pace and everyone was having fun. Smiles were everywhere befriending was a free for all. There were rolling SAGs and photographers as you have probably seen by the sheer numbers of photos posted on-line. Here’s a cool pic of Rosalie.<br /></span><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398965939085168514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 198px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV0ub-RGYyYWq1m1IAhCYkm57ylLJAe__ryLOg5Ww4VpLO6VpgndmfaOgeiUEzC5og96IxkGzzokDJOgVrSebslOWZ7w50aw0OPL6UODJCsc-n8sHD8I3XgjC4ruf9ucmgwv_3RDBFVuLv/s320/118214843_V9f4m3Ux.jpg" border="0" /><span style="color:#ccffff;">When the first group went, Rosalie and El also went and mentioned that it was a fast paced. </span><em><span style="color:#ccffff;">Here’s El’s post: Those guys were pushing to 33-34mph... With just 7 of us in the front but in one corner we made a right turn & I happened to be in the back & they started jumping & I got dropped... he heeh can't make it, was a head wind... kasalanan ‘yan ni Rozel at Ron, walang patawad! Anyway, I enjoyed the ride. We'll do it again next year.<br /></span></em><br /><span style="color:#ccffff;">Deo and Jonas were ready to go with this group but they waited for Francis and me as we were the last ones from the only restroom of the gas station SAG stop. We rolled with the next group and it was at a constant 21 mph.<br /><br />When we returned to the park, tons of delicious Pinoy food and dessert were ready to be devoured. The place was set up already and thank to the wives, the staff and volunteers for their work. Time of salu-salo was not wasted by the calorie-burnt riders, giveaways raffled off afterwards.<br /></span><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398966163133937970" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 256px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBte6uQYbu84-hegOBmH7GodSxEO1pwPefqjtO71lfjMUcgsGdkQ5IBdDjmS4jMwXzmMW06MBpzgZxyJTTmMcXaJDNg4omehD5QD4mWKN6Bm8SJJ45Ndl6oWRn3aRJHkX2gzf-BCC5o_Rz/s320/Photo_101109_003.jpg" border="0" /><span style="color:#ccffff;">We also had the chance to officially announce our Tour de Francis in Castaic. Frank even saved Vellum water bottles for us. Everything seemed to be seamless throughout the day. It was a great weekend overall! </span><em><span style="color:#ccffff;">Here’s what I was able to post at Luzvimin’s Yahoo Group:<br /><br />Frank and all the cast who made the event fun, organized, and like a fiesta! When I heard that it was 97 registrants total, my first thought was how can Tour de Francis this coming December beat that. But it was quickly forgotten with all the smiling faces and people that's there to be befriended. From registration time to the post meal, time flew pretty fast and this meant we were having too much fun. I can see why the peloton was controlled and timed to finish for a great party. I was impressed when El had a flat right after the start and that there's a replacement wheel ready for him. Deo and I dropped off to escort him back after the repair, but we were told by the SAG support to continue on with the ride and not to worry about it. El will make it back to the group. Rest assured he was! Even if the ride was strictly controlled, you can hear almost all of the participants chatting around; I guess part of that is making new friends. It was a fun ride anyway and not a competitive race. My itchy legs was wanting some fast pace riding later that morning but it didn't matter, we were all enjoying the moment. Too many Pinoys taking the whole lane was just amazing! Great route! I wish we have something like that in Los Angeles! Its just what I need. Great rolling SAGS and stops. Maybe the complaint you had was just because the rider came in to the SAG stops very late and had nothing left for him. Maybe he didn't know what to expect or maybe was just didn't had breakfast. Well, hopefully he can get stronger and faster next time where he can enjoy peloton bennies to enjoy some food and drinks. But maybe I'm wrong and just don't know all the facts.Back at the park, it was just great food, a lot, but just enough to please everyone! The giveaways and donations hit the spot. It was hard to leave even if we had about 350 miles to tackle to get home. It was fun trekking back south; it was fun driving up north too! It seemed like a weekend escapade with friends.Anyway, thank you for the great dinner that Saturday night! Thank you to Maui, Sally, and to you for the wonderful food and entertaining stories. We knew you all were busy preparing for the event that night but you all were still very welcoming and so hospitable to us. Thanks!Hopefully we can see you all, the cast of Luzvimin and all other cycling clubs of NorCal this December. Now it’s time for us to create the fun and hope we can beat 97 registrants. Let's target 100 riders!<br /></span></em><br /><span style="color:#ccffff;"><em>And here’s Mang El’s feedback:<br /><br />To Frank & wife Sally, Maui, Rozel, Ron, George & the whole Luzvimin racing team & also to the rest of people who help the ride to be a successful one. Your Giro de Barkada "09 was one of the best organized ride I've been for the past few years.<br />1. No riders got dropped far enough due to the constant pace that was set by the leaders for the first two sags stop. The pace was set to 18-21mph I believed.<br />2. Good sag support... got spare wheels from the rolling SAG when I got my flat tire (saved my time).<br />3. The sag stops were nice & big enough to accommodate the group.<br />4. Enough food for the riders on sag stops even you didn't expect that many riders to join the ride.<br />5. The last 20 miles was where the fun started for the fast riders (front group), going 23-25mph against the wind & top speed to 33-34mph with the tail wind.<br />6. Give-away gifts, water bottles, inner tubes & the donated mountain bike as the main price.<br />7. The lunch....... super good for the hungry stomach and lastly the friendship that you all showed to us.<br />Thanks a million Frank for the job well done & extend this to your crew. For sure I'll try to be with you guys next year, hopefully you'll make it on Sunday again. See you on Tour de Francis?<br /><br />To close, this ride was also organized to collect donations for those affected by Typhoon Ondoy.<br /><br />Here’s Frank’s posts: I am happy to inform you that the relief goods we received at the Giro d' Barkada was sent to the Philippines handled by the Filipino-American Catholic Charities of Stockton who have made arrangements with Star Cargo. Bike related donations will be personally ship to Cebu Recycle Bicycle Club. In behalf of LUZVIMIN RACING and from the bottom of our hearts, THANK YOU for all your generosity. Frank Gatdula.<br /><br />And here’s his reply to our posts: Thanks for the nice and kind words. Yes we tried our best to make everyone happy. We will be discussing about your ride this coming October 24 and try to send a contingent to represent LUZVIMIN. Rest assured we will be flying our colors once again since we missed last year's. Since it's all climb, we will be sending our best climbers only, hahahaha! Rozel, Rick, Rannie, Ron, Winston, Mike M., Maui, Jonas, Justin, Romeo, Roberto Sto. Domingo, Tom Alves, Jim Elam, Billy Huyn, Jeff Lancero... And maybe we can import Leian once again. Leian sound off ka diyan! Wala ka bang seminar dito sa California next month? The Adobo Velo ride is a true epic ride guys, it's 100 miles wth 75% climb and about 15,000 ft of climbing. Frank Gatdula. Let’s all go on the next GdB ride!</em><br /><br />And for the departing pic:<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398966366240689314" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 256px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSzpVV3bkG1qaUqIWYaHqqeNdNRsqsw6T_ovTTjaQOZni7fQ0pZhFkMl09IBa3hWS4CAzvwcPYLZRwiMXZg5Ck8_atZCEHV36J3_rR7oHgVKv8cN-z1us5cpl1SveDXV5BR-IBAaL5Jbli/s320/Photo_101109_023.jpg" border="0" />Thanks to Jeremiah Nueve: </span><a href="http://www.pbase.com/nueve009/giro_d_barkada_09"><span style="color:#ccffff;">http://www.pbase.com/nueve009/giro_d_barkada_09</span></a><span style="color:#ccffff;"> and<br />Mike Mercado: </span><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lcplwan/GiroDBarkada3?authkey=Gv1sRgCMv_g5i_7aTtdg&feat=email"><span style="color:#ccffff;">http://picasaweb.google.com/lcplwan/GiroDBarkada3?authkey=Gv1sRgCMv_g5i_7aTtdg&feat=email</span></a><span style="color:#ccffff;"># for a job well done on the photography department!</span><br /><span style="color:#ccffff;"></span><br /><span style="color:#ccffff;">Arden Arindaeng</span>AdoboVelo Wire Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14564509633139075984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399788279623015271.post-25938498193069904102009-09-15T20:14:00.000-07:002009-09-15T20:34:56.163-07:00An ADOBO Velo Labor Day Weekend with Pinoy Pro Tri-Athlete Arland MacasiebSeptember 6-7, 2009. After racing Ironman 70.3 Philippines, the first ever in the country, he took some time to spend with the ADOBO Velos on his stopover in California. His first morning in Los Angeles, he witnessed our Pinoy Prides Deo Asuncion and Wilson Blas race at California Bicycle Racing State Criterium Championships. We saw Wilson cross the finish line on one of the two - second place finishes he had. And Deo on his very strong ride and finish. Here’s Deo being watched by Arland.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0cDx3i12rOAerxsJ2im2Szvsfso-5Xdm7GXZcYeNvzRiSNMscr2SjfYN-ev5ZQOuc_Swhkj7z7LDiLFBXYeXivByOD9ex7si_gvtHikGTecR73Yhs-N7oZbmRHUSDHYh8XtQkQxK4Wcqj/s1600-h/DSC03037.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381900505392220530" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0cDx3i12rOAerxsJ2im2Szvsfso-5Xdm7GXZcYeNvzRiSNMscr2SjfYN-ev5ZQOuc_Swhkj7z7LDiLFBXYeXivByOD9ex7si_gvtHikGTecR73Yhs-N7oZbmRHUSDHYh8XtQkQxK4Wcqj/s320/DSC03037.JPG" /></a> Wilson, after his first race, getting Arland familiar of CBR racing.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj06GAaHhTaaA7w2JmXqu8wItaMHSdoYcW1QuuFPNwZBRfPPW679uxX5O9cwxxdArSXcbklJAOLzp78bAE45yA3OKGaZ-C6rVy2xdzmlmI50sMrkkP38ScO2NH5B3Knd9mPfNdahE43Wkdh/s1600-h/DSC03042.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381900244819522274" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj06GAaHhTaaA7w2JmXqu8wItaMHSdoYcW1QuuFPNwZBRfPPW679uxX5O9cwxxdArSXcbklJAOLzp78bAE45yA3OKGaZ-C6rVy2xdzmlmI50sMrkkP38ScO2NH5B3Knd9mPfNdahE43Wkdh/s320/DSC03042.JPG" /></a> An old friend of his, Bobbit Attendido from Phoenix AZ, in WM Skinsuit was also in town attending Olympian Adam Duvendeck’s weekend Sprint Camp at ADT Event Center.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNX-E9WzjUPHiZ6eQcQ7Sqa3_244wli-eByfv6fxv0Dl2XFHbh3Ey3jhX4sB-pOw0Y_AIG0jRSWkf-ZtptoZ-hpQCl8ehCPxiM5t6nKGMlen-ArHF_6tiJPCC15B_NUObhyDTLeq0WeCQ4/s1600-h/DSC03081.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381900043794686434" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNX-E9WzjUPHiZ6eQcQ7Sqa3_244wli-eByfv6fxv0Dl2XFHbh3Ey3jhX4sB-pOw0Y_AIG0jRSWkf-ZtptoZ-hpQCl8ehCPxiM5t6nKGMlen-ArHF_6tiJPCC15B_NUObhyDTLeq0WeCQ4/s320/DSC03081.JPG" /></a> Here’s the Ironman posing with the Philippine Flag in the background.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjal4kX_h8l67kIX8sZQwMnDkSKv6ULIuuiJstzeNqRXLKv5sGGZ5J5IID51j1ou2Bt5fk5CnLhCZhdXdir1xp_sMBzPVhG0Qn8ViVuXUxOb9tEUTOlJ5gNdeXqLYh5FK1Cgui2xa5OCi_H/s1600-h/DSC03080.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381899712383715378" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjal4kX_h8l67kIX8sZQwMnDkSKv6ULIuuiJstzeNqRXLKv5sGGZ5J5IID51j1ou2Bt5fk5CnLhCZhdXdir1xp_sMBzPVhG0Qn8ViVuXUxOb9tEUTOlJ5gNdeXqLYh5FK1Cgui2xa5OCi_H/s320/DSC03080.JPG" /></a> He also met his hometown friend Tim Claudio later in the afternoon. Evening came and we watched the beginning and final minutes of a 100-mile record breaking attempt by DanMcGee back at ADT Velodrome. Since Arland tinkering on a Philippine record 1-hour attempt, we didn’t want to miss this moment as this is a big learning experience for us.<br /><br />The next day, Labor Day Monday, he finally had a chance to ride since his travel and was very excited about riding with the ADOBO Velos! Thanks to William for arranging this ride. Arland is 7th from the left in this before-ride group pic.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnlNM2DsFyhtgppIIGJvHczHt-NASwpocSkBRwNmO00IKYwMQ5hKeEdM6EftgWAwMqV_YNFUdMPjtQTuUGDpgdEJWsuohOUSPTYYD-LnDUG4aXpeA1MbM2OIMRg56iFdrK673vI5XupycC/s1600-h/06+Cropped.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 137px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381899387836671650" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnlNM2DsFyhtgppIIGJvHczHt-NASwpocSkBRwNmO00IKYwMQ5hKeEdM6EftgWAwMqV_YNFUdMPjtQTuUGDpgdEJWsuohOUSPTYYD-LnDUG4aXpeA1MbM2OIMRg56iFdrK673vI5XupycC/s320/06+Cropped.JPG" /></a> We all rode around scenic Palos Verdes and enjoyed the hills.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNzwvtkMTnPk8XmAWakBFxiQMdUshww5I107sIcaAVCij5Pf5a0caF1ehgDjeiSZQJmuQ4RqW0iR7VJoOzMuFIPj3Tgo2HlzKFuh8SSGQR1xuUToSvNoqiSvONTNRmZTU9PuqeJmEDfDuk/s1600-h/04.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381899187782591698" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNzwvtkMTnPk8XmAWakBFxiQMdUshww5I107sIcaAVCij5Pf5a0caF1ehgDjeiSZQJmuQ4RqW0iR7VJoOzMuFIPj3Tgo2HlzKFuh8SSGQR1xuUToSvNoqiSvONTNRmZTU9PuqeJmEDfDuk/s320/04.JPG" /></a>Rosalie, Tim, Arland and I had some time for some tapsilog at Manila’s Lechon Restaurant in Carson Street. What a post-ride meal! Here’s a pic before moving on to beer time!<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOfOyPXhP2mlk3hawTwOm5xbOtq0hnm9WVmxQ1t9poHNMzHXdN8UZlw_3YAkvuVjefWggJGZHceVvzbl2D0eLo1fM5HrjKkGqJkV40gdhru0IP6D4ukX11LUTGujM5sLFp-vo_kWMrSWIh/s1600-h/23.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 256px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381898718471513186" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOfOyPXhP2mlk3hawTwOm5xbOtq0hnm9WVmxQ1t9poHNMzHXdN8UZlw_3YAkvuVjefWggJGZHceVvzbl2D0eLo1fM5HrjKkGqJkV40gdhru0IP6D4ukX11LUTGujM5sLFp-vo_kWMrSWIh/s320/23.jpg" /></a> <div>We then continued on with Oscar for a few pints of draft beer at BJ’s Restaurant near Del Amo Mall. We all had pretty good and non-stop conversations that included text messages to Christine. If you remember, she was with us during the San Pedro Grand Prix a couple of months ago, she’s a friend of his in New Jersey. He also shared his Ironman experience, some if his training knowledge, and the Fil-Am Tri-Athlete Club. We also made ride arrangements with Steve Pelaez when he returns to San Fran before traveling back home.<br /><br />Arland, thanks for taking some time with the ADOBO Velo Gang!</div><div></div><div>Arden</div></div></div></div></div></div></div>AdoboVelo Wire Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14564509633139075984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399788279623015271.post-28141349475323140192009-06-08T07:22:00.000-07:002009-06-08T07:24:41.127-07:00Big GMR to Crystal Lake Post Ride Report by VPDocDennis.<span style="color:#33ff33;">The ride from Encanto Park to Crystal Lake was one of the best rides I've ever done. The view, friends, food, what else can you ask for? Thanks for sharing this route to our new initiates (me included). JJ, Tim Claudio, Julius and I endured our first GMR ride. It was certainly grueling, a true test of cycling. I can see why the Duarte Chapter likes to go this playground so much. The Giro d'Italia, Tour de France were rolled into this one ride. We felt like pros as the peloton zoomed downhill through the zig-zag roads at 35+ mph.<br />Kudos to Francis for the pre-ride sag by bringing sandwiches, Cliff Bar, Power Bar gels, fizzy pop. Kuya Ricky gave out some Cliff Bars. Jess and Juliet gave support with water, bananas, cookies along the route. The food and drinks kept as topped and kept us from bonking.<br />As Francis suggested, we should make this a monthly ride with Adobovelo. I most certainly agree. We need more Liberty Boys on this climb.<br />I had to cut my ride 5 miles short of Crystal Lake to make it to my son's recital in Whittier. I made it just in time. He just started his music as I entered with my camera in hand, whew! Took a couple of quick photos for proof. Louie N. accompanied me on the way back to Encanto Park to keep me from getting lost.<br />Can't wait to ride GMR again!<br />Thanks,<br />Dennis</span>AdoboVelo Wire Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14564509633139075984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399788279623015271.post-76368213674380673612009-05-07T07:35:00.000-07:002009-05-07T07:40:58.912-07:00Breathless Agony 2009 KOM Stage #2<span style="color:#66ffff;">May 2, 2009 114miles 12,000ft of climbing</span><br /><span style="color:#66ffff;"></span><br /><a href="http://www.cyclingpros.com/Onyx0904.htm"><span style="color:#ff0000;">http://www.cyclingpros.com/Onyx0904.htm</span></a><br /><span style="color:#66ffff;"></span><br /><span style="color:#66ffff;">The weatherman was wrong once again..It didn't rain at all. It was dry, cloudy in the basin and blue sky at Onyx summit. Riders were me, Manny, Mandy, Victor, El Prez, Jun Usi, Jesse A., Richard, Francis,and Reggie Ferraz. Luis Pita signed up but decided to sit this one out. He thought the weather was gonna get ugly plus he was under the weather himself. Next year Luis, rain or shine you better do it. </span><br /><span style="color:#66ffff;">There were alot of familiar riders. I knew them by their faces, their bikes or Jerseys. Like Steve Gilmore, AGAIN.. On his bike he had a heavy big saddle bag (storage pod) like my lunch box (high tail ulp) that everyone makes fun of, big bento box on his top tube like I have that everyone makes fun of, and a mud guard fender, he thought it was going to rain. He looked like he was doing a double century. Wait, as a matter of fact, that was exactly what he had on his bike during the El Camino Real Double Century. He still passed me like I was standing still. Travis, everyone knows Travis. He was escorting, coaching a rider all the way up to the summit. JJ Lopez from TdFrancis BigBear and Joseph from TdFrancis Frazier Park were there too. Bong from RiverVelo passed by me soo fast on the last 5 miles climb to Onyx as if he was on GMR doing a time trial. </span><br /><span style="color:#66ffff;">Our Adobo plans were to ride our own pace, eat, load up, stretch and to stay less than 10mins. at each sag stop. Mandy and I started before sunrise. Manny and Victor rode together until Manny warmed up and decided to do his pace and caught up with Mandy and I at mile 15. The rest of the guys started around and after 6:30am. Thank goodness we had gusty 10-30mph tailwind at every climb. That wind felt soo good, I kept praying for more just to get through the climbs.. Wishes came through. It got windier as we climbed higher. </span><br /><span style="color:#66ffff;">I found myself riding along with the same people the last 20 miles of the climb to onyx. We did the YOYO back and forth riding. "Hey we meet again", "Hey it's you again", " Hi, it's me again", "Oh it's you again." on and on and on. Finally 7000ft elevation. You know what that means, less than 3-4 more miles until the summit but one of the most mentally and physically painful miles to ride. You want to go faster but yet you don't want to cramp up. If you think about cramping, it will happen. If you go any faster, you will cramp before the summit. So what do you do?.. YOYO with other riders and pray you don't cramp up. Thank goodness that didn't happen to me because I was too busy thinking about how great the tailwind was, how beautiful the weather was and how my ass was so sore from sitting on my saddle. The end was not near. There were so many last turns. You think you're there but you're not. When you don't think about it anymore, The last and 4th pass is right in front of you. Alright, time to look strong for the camera. The Grim Reaper awaits and one solo ADOBOvelo Manny at the summit cheering on. Yeah I made it up!! 1:58pm (8hrs10mins) . What an exilerating feeling to finish Breathless Agony. This was one great Century. Last year's breathless agony seemed hard, but this year seems to be a breeze, Ya a strong tailwind breeze.. Great food, great volunteers, great riders sharing their experience of the climb. We waited for the rest of the Adobos. Unfortunately Victor turned around after the 3rd pass. At least he got to taste the ride. Pictures and more pictures at Onyx Summit. The descend was fast and furious even though we had strong head wind. Mandy was stoked he shaved off 40 mins of his time this year from last year. For the rest of the ADOBO guys, great job sub 8 hours total riding time. For your information, the first rider to hit onyx summit in 4hours 43mins is my friend Gina Kelly's husband, Phil Kelly. Gina owns a bike shop in Simi Valley. Both are Ultra distance Cyclists on both road/mountain tandem bikes and solo road/mountain bikes. </span><br /><span style="color:#66ffff;"></span><br /><span style="color:#66ffff;">Until the next and last KOM, Heartbreak Hundred.. KEEP ON CLIMBING.</span><br /><span style="color:#66ffff;"></span><br /><span style="color:#ff99ff;">-ROSALIE</span>AdoboVelo Wire Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14564509633139075984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399788279623015271.post-82157264811876915732009-04-09T21:39:00.000-07:002009-04-27T21:08:30.957-07:00ADOBO Velos swarming and snaking up Fargo Hill Climb!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi75n_MhzzqnQ0Ft22sVOlT62EW4If6_2SScovSQ-vqC8rUCc4ox3ZQ-sN_08xd8MhVxrTVtxRoWo1iYURhw4wl2W8UrprvKJ9tWPi1_4stklEFVPH2ex03BsCYMDP1E93pMbIzqzwT63lD/s1600-h/_DSC5093.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323660372261596978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 248px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi75n_MhzzqnQ0Ft22sVOlT62EW4If6_2SScovSQ-vqC8rUCc4ox3ZQ-sN_08xd8MhVxrTVtxRoWo1iYURhw4wl2W8UrprvKJ9tWPi1_4stklEFVPH2ex03BsCYMDP1E93pMbIzqzwT63lD/s320/_DSC5093.JPG" border="0" /></a>Last March 15, a few of our ADOBO Velos participated in this extreme event. Few members showed up to witness the event and cheered our fellow riders snake up this steep climb. <span style="color:#ff0000;">Oh, that pic above, that was Manny Amit doing a STRAIGHT climb... <strong>IMPOSSIBLE!</strong> </span>To add to the craziness, Astig Elardi up’ed the pressure with some cash bonuses. Here's Willliam mixing it up with the other participants...<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323657541778055762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 314px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOmZkX7mbr-stEvCp4Y5emnhcpHRcSkVbg2TEyDM4LmOhX4NMxLmR-OonZHu5C-Fq-IlmcsyVbAZxaa2coAiL9Kb5R1WstlcTFy3FU5A_MHHwvxornTHO4_UjSbM1JHYcUMzaKis1ucYku/s320/Dwyman+8.jpg" border="0" /> <div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div>Here’s El's post at the Yahoo Group... <span style="color:#3333ff;">To all members of the ADOBO Velo gang that will make to the top of Fargo Hill Street today will WIN $5 from me. And to those that may climb more than 5 times may have a bonus of a dollar per climb. This is just for fun and to challenge our riders. Wish you all the luck!!! Be cautious!!<br /></span><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323658281327713586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 178px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix4vKGXl2DUdT4ZZBDgF6lzW5KSpHldevEzqVlkipPwwjAwyZynavthEWI6RgpYULPL_hi3ZCQYyM6KXkLpYsjhUOGGZtLFLkhxkHBqYaWrVwZCk6XkJsjNHYT7YHIAZyIWZGM7pd_6gXG/s320/Dwyman+14.jpg" border="0" />Naturally, my sprinting fingers started typing to clear up what he just posted: <span style="color:#ff0000;">Wow, El! You are giving good incentives for our aspirants! Thank you! When you say win, is it as winning with the most number of climbs of an ADOBO Velo in the event, or the most number of climb between a participating ADOBO Velos only. Good luck to all FHC participants!!!!<br /></span><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323656395492232338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoCP8PLQ4Vqi9UxnDgl0DaSCPZW1bMMyBotuKEoR579fDqlP-7GrcVaddSMTRx5AxP2SUup3lI7MDsY9sBqckvNXGHED94H-Agok5wmIstJdebXmYjNqlHuDkkWZCPoQDgRjV2nkzIFS2U/s320/Dwyman+9.jpg" border="0" />So that morning came. Cyclists of all kinds climbing the steepest street of LA. Above is Jesse Agrezor snaking up the steep street with his full ADOBOkit, as a first timer and eventually the 2nd place finisher! Spectators where cheering, more ADOBO Velo jersey’s snaking up the road, and Time Warner reporters interviewing and creating a story of the event. You will see this pic in action from their video.</div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323653631959607970" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 235px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI8CNUZ-SNuaB0zSNPFIXMHLY5_Hu0B5hzEZycoasQYDvt34e_QUYEs3iLsDtllOCqFOxRMAhDZL7eKelL-lLN_yIHU0zONAl5q91X6bSzDKX4Nced2nI9BZU2POoOxfn2tK2baJzPngr8/s320/Dan+Wyman+1.jpg" border="0" /> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323655686210900578" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeI3Wvif_Ily7wgOZXNVDOwGXoI-fONigOkEA_6buhrzl5TMgwjF7fHGaowpcUzb2xcRiuIHFffWPSLnnKYA5TuwukaddLnkUP3mCKv6lmyFB18Bsk_FGZDTDDxqUV0pOtu_tD_asYCzis/s320/_DSC5081.JPG" border="0" /> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323655831564359858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbLTAgf-Z1e_7SSRJw4SHWa8j1oTTB9-5oQQsHTE7hAIQnanufrKfwZljdgoSevl6y03-fe10Hunf2ySbGhzWhP7sBK1I5TzwObkhyVmBkuVagkU8jD71ixO-MONly2Mc6Pfhut1DZ9q0m/s320/_DSC5080.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323653506182537746" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuAlTH-oKV6rL5e2V32W9s_r_n2uoFNqFRliC4jF4ZGmBVvv3WdEsQGfo1AaYvqiaWE8O94z9wEesKB_k5S4z-PCbxF2Kz075Ppe_QbJnHTfI2CwDK0CdQ6Jqf-YJopi0sjqKwuhKyTeow/s320/_DSC5065.JPG" border="0" />It seemed like the cheers from the spectators were loud enough to irritate the neighborhood, so the cops where called in and they eventually stopped the event at around noon. Where's the noisy crowd you might ask? Well, more likely at the top and at the bottom of the street. Rude crowd I tell you! As you can see Francis, his kids, and Rosalie trying hard to look innocent! And the cops looking serious and thinking of what they should do. And still in disbelief like this doesn't happen every year!</div><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323654996109685090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3IIXPd69Y5ov6lYciQ_evd39vUS1w3kQM5KmxdqL4LSgNPRRUwT5QnVaw8fM4d1zLeYCMHklBbTHt3DsduG3dHn272Jo9o0sm9imwdFLD2LmcqAexrtWYtgKjIjIeP_lCrjEAhfjHCknt/s320/Dwyman+3.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323654085556506242" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 254px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPUKXfDV_Mv2RBN4FvxRIJXDymrcUob3U9q5a4baRw8G7ZkjRw-UP_72xHvsAex3y3Reqr76CdyzmplZ0WJKm3__jORvfmronsD0y42QVE-RlYd7ZbPFDEvf1a9pG_kec8lWeWdCgIY2Xa/s320/Dwyman+2.jpg" border="0" />If the event wasn’t stopped by the LA's Finest , the number of climbs could have been higher!<br /><br /><strong>Here’s the results: </strong></div><div><strong><span style="color:#66ffff;">Rosalie Kneebone- 16 climbs (1st place, New Women’s Record)</span><br /></strong>Doug Kubler 30 climbs - 1st place<br /><span style="color:#66ffff;"><strong>Jesse Agrezor- 26 climbs (2nd place, ADOBO Velo, ASTIG Ride)<br />William Aligue- 23 climbs (3rd place, ADOBO Velo, 2008 CoTY)<br />Pete Primavera- 19 climbs (4th place, ADOBO Velo)<br /></strong></span>Steve Gilmore 11 climbs (record holder of 101 crazy climbs). <span style="color:#ff0000;"><em>Looks like he was conserving for the afternoon but cut short!<br /></em></span><span style="color:#66ffff;"><strong>Alain Giaimo (Santa Clarita Velo) - 7 climbs on his road bike<br />Gerard Gabrang- 3 climbs<br />Manny Amit- 2 climbs<br />Mandy Genato- 1 climb (3rd place but in a different category!)<br />Lito Aralar - Climbed 3/4 of the distance and attempted many times.<br /></strong></span><br /><span style="color:#ff9966;"><strong>And our spectators:</strong> Dennis Evangelista, Mary Raffety and friends, Jun Usi and family, Jun Grape, Juliet Agrezor, Cookie, Manolito, Wilson Blas, Elardi, Santa Clarita Velo riders and family, San Fernando Valley Bike Club, Dock Riders Bike Club, LA Wheelmen and much more.</span><br /><br />As expected, Mang El’s post days before triggered some replies and here’s one from Rosalie who mentally prepared for this event… <em><span style="color:#33ff33;">“Mang El... I think you will go broke...but you’re lucky because the cops came and stopped the Fargo Hill Climb Challenge, boohooo!"<br /></span></em><br /><strong><span style="color:#6633ff;">Naturally, thanks to our spotters. Dennis, Manolito and Pete for helping our mountain goats!<br /></span></strong><br /><strong>Here’s a post event report copied from LA Wheelmen’s Fargo Hill webpage…</strong><br /><br /><span style="color:#ffff99;">It's only one block long, but Fargo Street, with its 32% grade, equals the steepest street incline in Los Angeles. Our annual event challenges all comers to see if they can make it up on a bike, and if so, how many times in one day. Here are the 2009 results:</span><br /><br />60 riders signed up, 46 riders completed the climb.<br />Oldest Rider: Doug Kubler at 64 climbs. <em><span style="color:#ff0000;">(Is that a typo?)</span><br /></em>Youngest Rider: Andrew Karnes at 12 climbs.<br /><span style="color:#ffcccc;"><strong><span style="color:#66ffff;">New woman's record: Rosalie Kneebone at 16 climbs.</span></strong><br /></span>Most climbs: Doug Kubler at 30 climbs.<br /><br /><strong>ALL-TIME RECORDS:<br /></strong>In 2008, Steve Gilmore set the men's record of 101 ascents, which took him 9 hours.<br /><span style="color:#ff0000;"><span style="color:#66ffff;"><strong>Rosalie Kneebone's 16 this year is the women's record, surpassing her 12 in 2008.</strong></span> </span><br /></div><span style="color:#ff0000;"><div><br /></div></span><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323658162322071906" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 221px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaPZBOVRHmed5nmqCCzOlpie_rDLrWwcpYiwgkWTWnjsreqOFRpG-qf0UsXa4mqN5DUZkdciiTxST4as5cNp2rBghp9G6o331qrXhcFkA9JtY-NB7NnnjJ5OVF8vmLC70oaRfCp3xPBxgM/s320/Dwyman+6.jpg" border="0" /> Could have been a goal of 22 climbs if the event wasn’t stopped!<br /><br />Here's some nostalgia and great mechanical engineering!<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323656278264372898" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNrtCaYljgtlIjs0jpGNECMTXI-6yJLfR_adTXXa4eoXQrW4ePBHqCwyVH65m0daoXCU2HgaQrNl136d189tiJl6tyeqjbLiSVUMeCJSvvO2U2UsWzIQRqjRCze-_f7b2gXdf7BOKRaGaS/s320/_DSC5118.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323656182542528562" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOdodmdRAkbQOp8l1vI2T2wccMGEPljHnItlM5SaUWN_-B_eiXLacvBXTqRnLMhSeMZ-DfIBYJXK0OovH_gaw0y1G0sW_ZiRFUyNUby7eDPwj37E4gCKGhmN-GV5eilXjvk8Hy_y64ufWR/s320/Dwyman13.jpg" border="0" />As part of the plan and since this event was also tagged as Tour De Francis VI Stage 1 by our TdF Director Francis Ignacio, the opportunity was made to have a fundraising event for Dennis Evangelista as he will be participating at the Aids/Lifecycle 7-day 545-mile ride from SF to LA this coming May 31 to June 6. We hope for the best, Dennis! <span style="color:#ffff00;">There will be plans to escort him on his last day of the ride.</span> Website: http://www.aidslifecycle.org/<br /><br />So to add insult to injury since the event was stopped, El Prez was asking who called the cops! As far as everyone knows, we think El did.... so he can lessen the give-away cash!</div><div><br /><div>So with the event done, the praises followed immediately. I tell you, if not for the power of the internet, we won’t be able to gather up a story like this! </div><div><br /><span style="color:#66ff99;">Henry posted this as a <strong>FARSTOP!</strong> (Changed “Far-go” to “Far-stop”) and was also encouraging everyone to Turnbull for a different version of FHC. Yup, we’ve been there and that’s a tough one! You can actually flip backwards too if you pull on your handlebar too much.</span><br /><br /><span style="color:#ffcc00;">From Ryan... I prepared my mtb, even changed it with sleek tires for Fargo Hill Climb but woke up at 3 in the morning with terrible knee pains. I wanted to go but I knew I won’t be able to ride. I can’t even walk up that hill so I decided to stay home. Anyway, congrats to those who tackled this grueling height.<br /></span><br /><span style="color:#ff6666;">From Fixie Gil… 16X!!! AWESOME!!! Congratulations 'Adobo Chick' and all the Adobo Velos!!!<br /></div></span><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323656500738622802" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXcrST_wTQeTf_AfnHF4IwbytzcvhaGHdwhm90UPDBxS_Qd4HHqIP-KdTQ-HZRQQX0rFaRC7sAViMbLL7otNkkPNVGDn4FZKz8A9VMBd5DvsSCCFQs_YjpgzaIJ1ENXXgmrpgnYg88szA6/s320/DSC07173.jpg" border="0" /> <span style="color:#ff99ff;">From Dong…Congrats to each participating Adobo Velos! For future reference, what gears did you use? <em><span style="color:#33ff33;">“Granniest gears you have... MTB with 22x34t is what I used”, said Darna.</span></em> </span><span style="color:#ff0000;"><em>I think she meant chainring at 22t and 34t for the cog!!<br /></em></span><br /><strong>Fargo Hill Webpage:<br /></strong>http://www.lawheelmen.org/fargo.htm<br /><br /><strong>Photo and videos by Mary Raffety:<br /></strong><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/merider/sets/72157615324509486/">http://www.flickr.com/photos/merider/sets/72157615324509486/</a><br /><a href="http://www.mydogparty.blogspot.com/">http://www.mydogparty.blogspot.com/</a><br /><br /><strong>Pics from Dan Wyman:<br /></strong><a href="http://www.pbase.com/coaster/fargo_street_hill_climb__2009">http://www.pbase.com/coaster/fargo_street_hill_climb__2009</a> </div><div><em><span style="color:#ff0000;">Dan, I used some of your photos. I hope you don't mind. Thanks.</span></em></div><div> </div><div> </div><div></div><div><div></div><div>And the video from Time Warner. You'll see the ADOBO Velos snake up this <a href="mailto:%$#@^p">%$#@^p</a> road!</div><div><a href="http://www.lawheelmen.org/fargo09_timewarner.mov">http://www.lawheelmen.org/fargo09_timewarner.mov</a><br /><br />You can also check our Picasaweb album for photos and Jesse’s you tube for videos. There’s probably more posted in the web somewhere so just keep checking.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div></div><div>Now I wonder about El's payout. So there's a win from Rosalie (ca-ching) and a little less than hundred total climbs from all ... so that totals to... (ca-ching, ca-ching... ca-ching) Hey, that's some money! <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"><em>Balato naman d'yan!</em></span></strong></div><div> </div><div> </div><div></div><div>Thanks and happy climbing!<br /><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">- Arden (The no- show!)</span></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>AdoboVelo Wire Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14564509633139075984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399788279623015271.post-12307407557539334772009-04-02T22:53:00.000-07:002009-04-04T22:14:45.820-07:00The 3rd Double Century that Rosalie earned for the right to be a 2009 California Triple Crown Cyclist!<span style="color:#ffff33;"><span style="color:#99ff99;">Winners of the prestigious California Triple Crown are the elite long distance bicyclists in California since they have completed at least three Double Centuries in the calendar year. Each of the rides is a major adventure in itself and are among the best rides you'll find anywhere in America!! And at this early part of the year, Rosalie finished the first three double centuries strong: Camino Real, Death Valley Double Centuries, and then this, Solvang Spring Double Century (beginning excerpts taken from CA Triple Crown website)</span> </span><div><span style="color:#ffff33;"><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320491040576234242" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 256px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcK-1gpzrNRp_0hjnsohbqJVq88HbrCLa0yfE6Ubyg36vURvIP-0uGgRjyoEu-lf8ugtKoDoayKuRedpvSpsxIpfLemXXGLpyF14UZKGS_fpf4n5CVFvkpwLozQvpUemBer4eYWhlqwJQY/s320/Photo_032709_001.jpg" border="0" /><span style="color:#66ffff;">- Congratulation to Rosalie for an impressive finish at the Solvang Spring Double Century in 13:30 and rolling time of 11:45. Wow... Thank you to F.A.C.T for escorting Ms. Darna to her Triple Crown finish. Lipad Darna lipad.</span> <strong><span style="color:#ffffff;">Francis I.</span></strong><br /><br /><span style="color:#66ffff;">- Simply AMAZING!!!! That is one (X3) super accomplishment. Only 3 months into the year! WOW. Congratulations again.</span> <span style="color:#ffffff;"><strong>Frank N.<br /></strong></span><br /><span style="color:#66ffff;">- That is absolutely SUPER! Great Job Rosalie Darna! My Hero!</span> <span style="color:#ffffff;"><strong>Ed M.<br /></strong></span><br /><span style="color:#66ffff;">- KILLER!!!...Lipad high and don't look back! Great job Rosalie! You are our hero, Darna!...</span> <span style="color:#ffffff;"><strong>Gil</strong></span><br /><br /><span style="color:#66ffff;">- Yes Rosalie, congrats once again your the BEST it looks like it's going to be a year of many accomplishments for u, (u go girl).</span><span style="color:#ffffff;"><strong> Arnold I.<br /></strong></span><br /><span style="color:#66ffff;">- Congratulations, Rosalie! You are one heckuva cyclist - wish you more laurels to come!</span> <span style="color:#ffffff;"><strong>Albert J.</strong></span><br /><br /><span style="color:#33ffff;">- This is the earliest in the year to earn a Triple Crown! Well deserved, Darna! That goal was reached because of your determination. There's still another 9 months before the X'mas Party, do I smell COTY already!? What you did was amazing and should be recognized by California Cycling and the rest of the Pinoy cycling here, back in the Philippines, and the WORLD! Congratulations!</span> <span style="color:#ffffff;"><strong>Arden<br /></strong></span><br /><span style="color:#ff99ff;">Here's Rosalie’s Solvang Spring Double Ride Report:<br /></span><br />Thanks everyone!!! I can't believe it myself!! If I didn't ride with F.A.C.T / Fresno Cycling Club members, Tito Geronimo, Vince (F.A.C.T President), Tom, occasionally w/ Mr. Q. (F.C.C. President) and Tom, I would still be out there in the dark. It was Tito and Tom's first Double.<br /><br />Got to the start at 4:45 am. I looked at everyone to see if I knew some familiar faces. I saw 2 guys who looked Filipino wearing Fresno Cycling Club Jerseys. Went up to them and asked them "Are you Filipinos?" They said yes, and I introduced myself being with the ADOBO Velo and the only one riding the double. One guy asked me, "So is your group coming up to do the Fresno Ride next weekend, did you get the email I sent to your group?". A light bulb flashed on my head, I asked "Wait, are you Tito Geronimo?" He said yes! He then introduced me to Dr. Vince, President of FACT who by the way pulled the group 85% of the time. Dang Fast Pull, I had my share of pulling as well. </div></span><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320487134861518706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 243px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbiIt5uX2yrWlPWW6yluIWHjjMNERxST-zF_djWi4zy-NtAn1a7XSC5_XuUk16rdKRB4aFAxO9NgxPqnrg0mXxWtdNeYABTqD91vN9X63RijG1EmlDthqD6igo5sWYCxudqPiBPinv3roz/s320/2+solvang.JPG" border="0" /><span style="color:#ffff33;">The weather was great and the SAG support was excellent. They didn't run out of food nor beverages. The weather was fantastic, cold start but sunny comfortable all day long 60-70 degrees.</span><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320487146302292370" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 238px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpPpIDLTJWfVGxfDXP8MpfZFCdU3KZZU5RplH47zYZ1CjH1AvKts50qehM4TpRXbp1PhY3BDJ3i9d_4BJsZYtFKpS3c9U4lRDRfFh0Dt0IwcRzviiLB6MWHxCZRoXGajOc9ievlM6Y6E2j/s320/3+solvang.JPG" border="0" /><br /><span style="color:#ffff33;">I saw Keith Brodsky pull in at mile 120 (lunch stop). He started at 7:30 am (for time) with other haul ass riders. He came up to where we were sitting and said "hi!". He downed a regular coke, picked up a subway sandwich and other goodies, stuffed it in his jersey while eyeing other riders who rode with him and then they all took off. Five fast minutes of refueling. I also saw Steve Gilmore, 101 Fargo Hill Climb record holder. Saw him also at the El Camino Real Double, Fargo and now Solvang Double. Saw Alain Gaimo of Santa Clarita Velo before the last SAG stop mile 177. He tapped my shoulder as he passed by and I yelled "GIAMO!!!" I forgot his first name for a second and then yelled out "GO ALAIN!!" He was riding alone going for time as well. Dang, fast rider!<br /><br />I was looking forward to the cup o noodle at the last sag stop. They had it but they didn't prepare it because they were saving it for the night riders. The sun was still high and it was still fairly warm, so another peanut butter jelly (4th one) for me. The last 5 miles was fast and furious. Fast descend on drum canyon all the way to Buellton. Legs felt great excited the ride was coming to an end. My eyes welled up with tears knowing it's my 3-PEAT DOUBLE and a California Trip Crown FINISHER... Now I know how William felt from his last years 3-PEAT DOUBLE. I was so excited I even sprinted to the finish at 6:30 pm. </span><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320487145279378306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTV9P0x5mxqY7ILRshOahkhP9YsIWZ14mRHidTGCBCqHMlP5X2jjL6GJZHf4-jhzS1gDA4nr-8wd0ePLeMhPRtXe9GXAcw9g56Kmaqj4UHrLJZXPvCwRRIOPRdUhozJjr4uF4TPGtZl5In/s320/4+solvang.JPG" border="0" /><span style="color:#ffff33;">The sun was still high and I can't believe I had to haul my 2 headlights I didn't use and one battery, plus bars and gels I didn't eat that was in my High Tail (saddle bag) .. LESSON LEARNED… Don't bring too much food. I didn't know that all SAG support will be fully stocked.<br /></span><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320487141661249330" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGeOmmshEaAvc9JghDVeVdKAjtw8ttq2_eZaBz-Bd2wp3uDSkuNnAxeXr0eejLzNsE94nWuTCT1ZgIJ3_tQEM4882kQZuqvdHsIcz02wdoVLUir4RIP277MnAVcdm0IpvOXfS-O3F_zoHY/s320/1+solvang+finish+group+pic.JPG" border="0" /><span style="color:#ffff33;">After the ride, The guys and their wives invited me for dinner at AJ Saloon Steak House. SIRLOIN STEAKS for everyone. We reminisced the ride and celebrated Tito and his wife Leila's Anniversary.<br /><br />GREAT RIDE with GREAT COMPANY!!!<br />Total time -13 hrs 30 mins<br />Rolling time - 11 hrs 45 mins<br /></span><br />Until the next DOUBLE (2 more) .... KOM CHALLENGE… Here we come!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!<br /><br /><span style="color:#ff99ff;"><strong>-ROSALIE</strong></span><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div>AdoboVelo Wire Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14564509633139075984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399788279623015271.post-18355097735299777512009-04-02T08:45:00.000-07:002009-04-02T23:03:00.611-07:00Feb 28,2009 Death Valley Spring Double Century Ride ReportRosalie's 2nd double century...<br /><br />Our Friday went like this, while Francis dragged the guys, Kuya Ricky, Vince and Manny at 5:45am to drive to Trona Death Valley for their Century Ride supported by Francis himself, Pete and I carpooled and left at 9:30am to go sightseeing at the ghost town of Rhyolite in Death Valley. The view of the valley in Beatty was incredibly clear.. The drive to the road leading to the Goldwell Air Show Museum was about 1/2 a mile away from the highway.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320123691988050178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdFNvQ7qgzYz1_wNIWUc5G2KknOW7NEDF4-ho8Uv4caDi-sglZf9ZLQ-WvtfSOXiDaejS9wqozHy7PlhyiWHljJ9GfN_sZy-fq8qIRHrtIe-pUsEVicd3L5jDvzsf8GUqjkrn6iy7-Jl9B/s320/IMG_6529.JPG" border="0" /> It gave a sense of time warp, back in the cowboy era, like the movie "the good, the bad and the ugly". Reality hit me when I saw a few cars driving the opposite road. While the guys were grinding up on Towne Pass,<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320122571212943890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLHpiheaLVu9OyvkwuZ1zYfK54ykqD7xFXQ55d7kIWITlA11S25lMphmDngrkPyvoZEFXhSK0MOEGda-2NqsI8TNcsWMtE9gt5iqigver1U-WvUABpiEndoQicnlGKVm30OuzGiXe9Bkw6/s320/IMG_0701.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320122570384180290" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigQSUHgKqB5OZp62m1MF8XdZeisGVsD7NoCuc9haTNw_q9kLpDAq-LVWjRCKKSwi0QQuSDH5hIhfLYQwCOqWIAgGRh7iV1uHIgHcwTG45401CKJH1IkJNSkOXCuOkwNKfGTr35CGwYrpN1/s320/IMG_0780.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320122576294198194" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_WmWLSpxNBgO-tkaRf-3_Z4vbKWma81OEzt1A78QoOvYHN20chLpgH_PUi7gj6TI04v9izcFyAIosmkAyt9WVqf6uY4jCpkXQR-EUWaKj6VmjNHBuSKHaMSq-KhOdmtd0wvfds0hEUf2z/s320/IMG_0793.JPG" border="0" /> Pete and I were taking pictures of the ghost like white shrouded statuettes of the Last Supper sculptured in 1984. Made out of plaster and to weather proof, coated with fiberglass. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320123680241221154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE8sW2eJ-c_0WFTHJblZuTKjvlZi-AunDavqPtiGfA4XcZFI4a0C-nVPiL6v8xepwQErz5sDk91Yl-nz7Y8T750GdjRTLJy1aDg1xz8b2bvg9O6NyylnLzJ17KgNIqnWNpb6F5LuTScB3q/s320/IMG_6497.JPG" border="0" />I have always wanted to see the Last Supper. Driving through the ghost town was very eery.. I definitely wouldn' t want to be there during the dark or night. The statuettes might come alive.BBBooooo!!!! AaaaHHHH!!! <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320123681259111938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCIa8-sjNSieADnh7lW7CkrxPrxbjm2E_4YmIG5U8upKZWJhI0LaK0HVfKmbvBqyWerJ3SkCF7WuzkFYVZJu1Nu-sQVbZPHBrSw1etPD5Vy2g1XoKIQx_l5uG8P26SJhcSj4wltvIOK9Pt/s320/IMG_6508.JPG" border="0" /> We then left and drove towards Stovepipe Wells. We thought maybe we will be able to see the guys, but, no sight of them yet. We finally got to town, checked in our bags and bikes and calculated what time the guys might get to Stovepipe. Since it was almost 5pm, we decided to head towards Furnace Creek. About 1/2 a miles into the drive, We saw a familiar truck (kuya ricky's truck) and 4 guys on the side of the road.. It was THEM!!! They made it. They were close to the Sand Dunes. Kuya Ricky's was standing behind his truck, his head was slumped on his back truck bed door as if he was ready to hurl (throwup, upchuck)..Nope...It was his knees giving up on him..He said "That's it! I'm done" I gave him a hug and said "Congratulation's Kuya Ricky, you redeemed yourself." They rode 78 miles.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320126428696190322" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoGUS35pYVcs26F2MnZfK_B10qZejwcoK55aXItdaSmWDUKAi8iOYle7-1G1NFrvqQfkswO4tS4OzQsBW-x9dg3abt-chNob87yTA6kdb0Wtd9ZLglGTRyiI6ab6g8TLBfbJukwhQ-4PYR/s320/IMG_0799.JPG" border="0" /> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320126436156301154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjaXZQFeip1SgZ_3VfQHAHXOWGLblTdlJphbxaA7ZgZh-LSRv6J0w3XZ3IXY9iKBPfZCJeIJLtebyT5OoCoHshmC2FJ6qyK2KH3XRDHV5mypv8LN_u-z3xxhJMqgmUrAJvQW0sSUQ02ON_/s320/IMG_6540.JPG" border="0" />Both Kuya Ricky and Vince called it a day but Manny on the other hand, was still feeling fresh and decided to ride all the way to Furnace Creek with 2 personal SAG support vehicles. He said those Powerbar round blocks Francis was giving out gave him so much energy, he had to finish the ride. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320126441632151314" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFQTxubSA6umunpRDDRjfjxB7Uf_vmtBGPWsoR3fMlCxgy5Tj0DNr5su5L8JveEgG8ePVTW-Af84dI7hK47hPFkFyCpjwd_hrhGflvLBWsvT1eyDb2wTQEar28h4d3CgBDns0Mm9S1YXr7/s320/IMG_0803.JPG" border="0" />Manny arrived Furnace Creek in the neck of time before it got really dark. He was so excited to get the ride done, he was even thinking about maybe doing the double on Saturday. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320133430903371138" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9dgfOh4nVlCL7JcEouKMBQay6lDEnEcx2tT48xaG9PCp6evXcGpZSCDG-jjw5fz_JOFTx0AqYUTeZAl6rIUDQkz4YkAWgrlUvk7Iybi8qLJicOT7e4aDAmNRHmQGsRTsLmBQ8EeqfFcyX/s320/IMG_6596.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320126443114371554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkigRZXkZsOyhj9OcnjN9ZRejDZh8uTcd_jngx0eCq7rATxd42OL41yMeNR9THG-Bs0aRBnDmlhc5-ygWNMcWJaxznyWKKlUPLqBGb4p70rheKNg3v3xTUE2yzJfwRHpnbTvXI4HRcxUG5/s320/IMG_6560.JPG" border="0" />We all had dinner at Furnace Creek. Post ride recovery food for some and carbo-load for me, Pete and Francis. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320128628886065330" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhljXtL5CubDPGpVopavjekWB9jFyvjQkkH-AFJ25QpfJitlG4snTTKWcFo46DuarLBbii7XNnP3LruATqNfstoW4sSA6hdhf9Y-BI2aVSE8buV3d00nLvSj8XGKDW7ZsgPZ3lP_dI45Hip/s320/IMG_0811.JPG" border="0" /> We stayed at Stovepipe Wells Friday night. Two 2double bed rooms. Friday riders slept in one room and the Double Centurion riders slept in the other with a common door to the friday riders.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320133429278490450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGn7nsGC6TYvB-EsFr_GMNH0K_lpMPO1-QkH3ZXjS1Eso7MSM_9FTlCvduVbnAv_foW1zetIauCnhogwIfaklBX-fxQgwHOSBfH5ObqMJve7x-3h7Yrk2VWFp_-_DO96TNf4QvYZ137R1p/s320/IMG_6588+1.JPG" border="0" /> Kinda cool, everyone were going back and forth from one room to another. Francis slept like a log on his bed by the window, he was out like a lightbulb. Pete on the other hand, slept on the floor, took a sleeping pill to get his good night sleep. As for me, tossed and turned for abit while the TV was still on but yet had a pillow over my head. I said to myself "this is useless". Got up, turned the TV off put 2 pillows over my head because I didn't know where the snoring was coming from, either the double cent room or the friday riders room.<br />We woke up at 4am, ate, donned our Adobokit, put our gears and bike on my car and drove to Furnace Creek.<br />We were in the second start wave, 6:10am. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320128619842269090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFezXmUVj6vChA6QNzKepl7s6SFZg_TPlJ37f3d2KXNv8-0l7Lu8A9LRwFwWYSuwS-R96fyebKPFhKlaQRtDQBpjAtJz3JnPfqSLNOTq0_vFzdGMM4UFabSQ7pnlqgwy-dko2w8XE44xEd/s320/IMG_6568.JPG" border="0" />There were lots of riders eagered to start. But the volunteers controlled the wave starts pretty well. Once we took off, slight climbing began. The pace was slightly faster than I anticipated. That was okay, since the first stop was at 17miles (badwater). Hung with Francis and Pete but once another rider passed us, a chase began by Pete and there goes Francis as well. I said to myself "DAMN.. If this is the way it's going to be all day, I'm not going to finish the ride". I stucked to my plan and just stayed with a group of riders with a doable pace and drafted and conserved.<br />The Volunteers for AdventureCorps are awesome, the best. Roving Vehicle with a loud speaker playing an upbeat music would go up and down the road.. The volunteers at some sagstop would take your bike from you while you refuel. It was like a bike valet service. It was great. Each sagstops had tons of food, beverages, ice and hammer products. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320128632129432354" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOPaPHy_C2NhRi5QedbZB2rB7TP3yTcEXHZUS7DrhZubu2U6O2ufH3OCc03tgMKLGbigYyflZuyqQDvrqdPng7K3gbNsCjNw84kzNcjQa8P2-AC06Yw9HGTIk-J3CSrjmxhPDpttrGTNyg/s320/IMG_6573.JPG" border="0" /> Major climbing began at mile 45. Francis and I rode a comfortable pace total of 20 miles of climbing with a downhill break at after 10 miles of climbing. Pete on the other hand didn't want to stay on his saddle too long so he would take off, sacraficing his legs to save his ass from hurting. We would regroup at each sagstop.<br />While still climbing at mile 60, up ahead coming from the opposite road towards us were a few riders stretched out coming back from Shashone. They flew by going what felt like 50mph. Tucked so low, all I can see was the bike. It was Michael Emde, who flew by first (2009 508furnace creek winner) and other riders following him behind. I looked at Francis and my mouth dropped. They have already done around 95miles and we were still climbing at 60 freekin miles.. Shook my head and I said to myself "I guess they will not be needing any night lights since they will be back at furnace creek while the sun is still high".DANG BULLET FAST RIDERS!! <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320131207508610786" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJYJWBSES7-lVp8J6iDK7Qkh0rTWYkxSNU4CrVJgvm9gwrvFTngiPInooAaykKjDBPmwp-2fLBPZcYG-7OqFgydU6qn3SR0ygUlMLWYjXJEylgOWaLVoDnCNIZnqHIHlq693W1EG81XX84/s320/IMG_6577.JPG" border="0" /> After the Sagstop at Shashone, climbing began again. Climb, climb, climb was what I remember from this ride. We caught up with the tandem riders George and Brandy donning an everest challenge polko-dot jerseys. Climbed along with them for a bit while Francis and Pete took off. They were telling me how tandem riding is much much harder than solo riding. Coordination, compatibility, concentration, balance and patiences are what you need to have to ride a tandem. Once in a while George would do a count down and he then would say up and they would be off their saddle in syncrony for I would say about 10-15 pedal strokes until they sat down again. Climbing on a tandem is hard , anyone can catch up to a tandem on a climb, but when it comes down to DOWNHILL, make room because they can descend faster than Michael Emde over 50mph.. SCCAARRRYYY!!<br />We regrouped at mile 100. Did the usual, fill up water bottles, get food, use the bathroom and then take off. The problem I had after this sagstop was forgetting both my waterbottles!!!! I didn't realized it until my watch timer went off (goes off every 10mins to remind me to drink) looked down and "What the @#$%??? I forgot my water bottles." Luckily I was still behind Pete and Francis. I told them and they shooked their head. It was awesome of them to give me each of their water bottles.<br />At this point Pete like always, didn't want to stay on his saddle so he accelerated along with Francis and I tried to hang on with them. I remember William telling me, "At each sagstop, you eat and then ride comfortably so you don't get a side stitch" Well, that Sidestitch creeped on my side to the point where I couldn't hang on with the guys. Slowed myself down and rode with a group that was behind us. Once my sidestitched disappeared, I took off to try to chase Pete and Francis. No can do.. They were too far.. I found myself riding by myself for over I think 15 miles. Lunch stop was at Badwater. Francis and Pete got my waterbottles from the volunteer. Francis gave me a lecture like I was a little kid. Lesson Learned.. "Focus and prioritize yourself" he said to me. This is where we would pick up our headlights. Francis gave me 15mins to eat and to set my lights. So that I did. We then took off and rode together.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320128636439889298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4NB0gv8nW5lqw1TYHD3shgpX2XsKh1tV6ibgUTPYhLh7JTJph97pJlGRBkfOLA7YGvKVdfOoxffbphF-Zwd8NkkVgq-4YtVH0RJRhryMOst1U6AtV0iNGqk4F5X6Qd-wGMKxeCUo8u3pw/s320/IMG_6583.JPG" border="0" /> This time at a much comfortable pace since we stuffed our faces with Subway sandwiches. Rollers and lots of them at this point of the ride. A problem came about when I noticed my headlight was wiggling from my handlebar.. DAMN.. I lost the screw from the clamp. I thought I tightened it well but I guess I didn't. Told Francis and he shook his head again.. I felt stupid at this time.. "What the heck is going on with me, first my water bottles, then a side stitch, now I can't use my lights.""AARRRRGGGhhh.. LUCKILY I had my other backup headlight I had from the morning that I didn't use..WWHEEEWWW!!!<br />We got to Furnace Creek mile150 at 5:50pm. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320131211659590226" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6bCoFAtSFybwcD9M9kPm7Art-gMjPvUwfvrVonBq_fZnOld_KXVfZTRY3Pu_6D1T0gaNePgQ4NbI5RqDBNNUkqjGY72fk1NUVGhllazcbTnm_WI0GtGf5ltee7ToiEE4wI2dSPDPOBbX7/s320/IMG_0868.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320131216187248898" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkSjAhCsTBBin5je0L-fqB-3iJk3WUK7A7yCxtljvdl3KFmWcT8v6kPuKvUfCNoxoqsgj0K4OWBkz8VXcivxIZxor1pq1KB_5CK-l8qiYOIMa0xKMQluFbZUC-OJEaO8scWnBnC0zf8wJE/s320/IMG_0870.JPG" border="0" /> Francis told Vince that we would arrive there around 6pm. It was great to see Kuya Ricky, Manny and Vince. They just got done sightseeing at Ubehebe Crater and the surrounding areas. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320133419181538594" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3PEbptdcNhsePtru97aCfoAYKnd_IAaDHYm07aVgqTpZNDBDvvuph08pCCEP7YZHJMd69fUT1IhYBlo6NC7QfMKDa9u3DxNsm9BTtS_x7Mmm3TQ_hHQ0pZP-n-ak4mR2WdZf-j1P5bF9a/s320/IMG_0817.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320133427712093426" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Z8PkfvOravWcE1BUaX2EqtL6-8GjslJPWkLzbBwnoqPtHlQ1nSOhqtbQ1lWXN-FtFBzg_5t1dTtuAsfCs7L473By7JQp6oj0DlXHKD9vhTDiJSmhJrQ8zYxIElT1HXQ5ejpl0nbxzaDA/s320/IMG_0835.JPG" border="0" />They treated us like royalty.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320131220344796514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRgD-td4vYqILBr8DPZpd0cMKOtU-1yF8pn22WYFydz0ynOS_1uFfvUuXnO6nSuYdu80r0rm-Od8X8OhWwLLANvZat-TBcE0wzlLWEqUuTZPZqgnjGZeljgieYiqxhyphenhyphen7aOBd2vxWeVdPFw/s320/IMG_6587.JPG" border="0" /> They would say "what do you need, I'll get it for you, let me hold your bike, I'll fill your water bottles for you, what else do you need" WOW what a treat.. The only NONtreat was seeing the first finishers like Michael Emde and other bullet fast riders lounging around comfortably on a grassy area and finding out they have been lounging around for a couple of hours. And there we were at Furnace Creek with 50miles to go. I didn't let that get to me. 25 miles to StovePipe get my coke and cup-noodles and then turn around 25 more miles and Walla DONE.!! It was the darkest ride I have everdone. No moon, pitchblack but AWESOME. I found myself stargazing. I loved riding at night. I didn't know what was up ahead so there was no hill Anticipations, why? because you can't see them ahead, too dark but you can feel it on your legs.<br />The last 25 miles felt like I have only been riding 50miles. My legs felt great. I was on my big chain ring most of the time.<br />We got to the finish at 9:40pm. We did the last 50 miles in 3hrs 40mins including stops. We were greeted with the Cow Bell Rings and a Shoutout by the Volunteers "Great Job!!" and by Chris Kostman "Great Job ADOBOVELOS!!!"<br />Pizza and sodas awaited but I only had a couple of bites from Pete's Pizza. At this point, I couldn't think anymore, the rest of the night was a fog. The restaurants were closed so we headed back to Stovepipe and ate left overs. Had a good night sleep and then took off the next day.<br />We caravaned to Badwater.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320133443511083890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiedf8g9IrpszDmQdrWJUenZkHG6tufbV2tSq6CB-uDi1y1Fi3rp-QKM-Tt5XqokMelPtrLDIQT2Fc1tdEWuKfzFZpPkBAK2hQBk-k8d4Vm6v4f-kwM-c_x0Q3Zyx2WZRUmp9kZXA_uxizt/s320/IMG_6619.JPG" border="0" /> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320135130712087458" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv9BCUINdiJmcIQQ3S7tXthoOJepvcfyX6OfEOgUpXqSfgyjJV1iu13-g3n1KcXkmMLICKPACymW2ZuMsokAcHBJTLRQAvgxrIOMaEMl0eR7XVuZRrI7QOzG_eYhvQZ1VOQQSAqZbdxQJR/s320/IMG_6625.JPG" border="0" />Took pictures and drove the route all the way to Shashone.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320135137486771138" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZSQClmqvPIeLSWSzbmAN3K6R2r-uADr88oCLjfYD9ypBJvhwX6Guw5wqZVHz0C2emLnLHxV4QESKo5jPr0Ueu3QiDof1Avyx-eaQKzWtK0r72zG26602COpyp5_SjeKQZzyTebOsf68eg/s320/IMG_6638.JPG" border="0" /> Had lunch at the Greek Restuarant at Baker and celebrated Kuya Ricky's birthday. Lunch was on him. Thanks Kuya Ricky.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320135148139282402" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-OpEi9YJUsMdQmIHXtyT0_CnC3kaES99urTDEhoPyoHBPEyyjcXEipf4S2_FLkv5tG93p65tQ0Bi1LCy4dpAACUFEfppTpee_aATnG08ZRRnuxcKyA45Ur4VhmiRzNUzasrQlScnoFUkB/s320/IMG_6658.JPG" border="0" /><br />Great hard double and to top it off, a weekend spent not only with great riders but great friends.<br /><br />-ROSALIEAdoboVelo Wire Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14564509633139075984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399788279623015271.post-44030528036123575042009-03-16T20:47:00.000-07:002009-03-16T20:49:30.058-07:00Louie Rivera and daughters at Solvang CenturySolvang Century just happened this past Saturday and I did not bump into any of the ADOBO Velos! I know most of us have our own priorities! But to give you report, it was awsome. Every year doesn't seem to be the same. The weather could have been better but 40's at the start, felt 50's at noon, and quite comfortable at the end. Basicallyit was cloudy and the sun showed up may be total of 30 min. My daughters rode with me to the halfway point at Santa Maria but they thought they were only doing half a century. They actually did 59 miles and change.<br />All in all no, incidents of flat tires, mechanical or crash. I have a lot to be thankful for. Oh, no cramps for my daughters either. I guess the cool weather helped. I completed the last 40 miles by myself but I met the group of Pinoys from Fresno. They were telling me that we are all invited at Padyakan sa Fresno in early April. Ballard Road was rough and needed repair. I thought it was giving my frame an acid test! That's all folks... MISSED YOU ALL!<br /><br />- LouieAdoboVelo Wire Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14564509633139075984noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399788279623015271.post-71211673611501202212009-03-01T09:29:00.000-08:002009-03-01T10:12:42.652-08:00Astig Rosalie's First Double Century at Camino RealFrom: Rosalie<br />To: <a href="mailto:ADOBOvelo@yahoogroups.com">ADOBOvelo@yahoogroups.com</a><br />Sent: Friday, February 27, 2009 12:06:41 AM<br />Subject: Camino Real Double Century Post Ride Report<br /><br />First I want to say a special thanks to our veteran endurance riders William and Francis for giving me tips and secrets on how to prepare for a double. I followed every bit of information given to me. If I didn't, I probably wouldn't have finished. We had a choice, either start at 5:30 am or 6:15 am. Since it's my first double, I opted to start at 5:30 am not knowing how long it would take me to get done. Francis met me at the start line. He brought his white bike (colnago) with white wall tires, a backpackfull of his own food since he was his own SAG (bandit) and wore his full ADOBOkit. Dang we looked like Big Brother/Little Sister. While waiting for my name to get called during the roll call, I took my Imodium pill and V8 (tip from Francis). I was so excited to start the ride, but yet I was doubting myself . While still waiting for my name to get called, I looked around me and I saw so many riders wearing their California Triple Crown Jersey and WindVest. I said to myself " Now that's the reason why I'm here, to EARN that JERSEY". All my doubts disappeared and I was pumped up to start and finish the ride.<br /><br />We finally rolled out of the start line. My watch was set on a timer to alarm every 10 mins to remind me to drink, tip from Francis. The route would take us to a very familiar route, Jamboree to Dana PointRoute, except it was a reverse route through San Joaquin. I remembered William and Francis saying to hook up with the TANDEM Riders, to draft with them and conserve. Well, low and behold, Francis was talking to his Tandem rider friends during the first few miles. He looked at me and said, "Stay on there wheels and don't lose them. When they leave the SAG, we leave with them". And that was what we did for the first 100 miles. One of the Tandem rider said, "Why waste a good draft when you can do it, plus with good company". So TRUE. And they didn't mind it at all. The more the merrier. Follow a tandem, you won't get lost. Well.... we did take one wrong turn but was able to get back on the right track.<br /><br />Finally.. Lunch stop at mile 87, All Season Campground in Oceanside. Everyone was starving. I inhaled my Subway sandwich, V8, chips, Fruit punch and Tylenol. Offered Francis food but he wouldn't take anything from the SAG not even their water. You know why? Bandito Style. Luckily there was a general store at the campground. I had a feeling they were keeping an eye on him. One of the SAG supporter kept talking to us. Hmmmm.<br /><br />Like I said before, when the tandem leaves, we leave. And so we did and the climbing begins. A tip from William, "After you eat, ride easy so you won't get a side stitch.<br /><br />"Climb, climb climb with rollers for the next 15 miles. Francis was way behind. I stopped and waited before the fast descend. Asked if he was okay, he said he lost 5 nipples from his spokes and his front wheel was very wobbly. After carefully descending, we stopped to check his bike again.. He said it would take him awhile to fix his bike that to go on ahead, that he would try catch up or take a cab or something and to just go go go and follow the Tandem.. And that Idid. I caught up with them but they dropped me on the descend. Found myself riding alone for the next 5 miles until 6 riders from Arizona called the BULLSHIFTER creeped up behind me. Ahhh..YES!!! time to draft again.. and so I DID until the very end 200miles!!!<br /><br />The Bullshifters consisted of 5 men and 1woman. Average age was probably 45 yrs old. They ride like they're on tandems because when one stands up, everybody else had to stand up.. It was very rhythmic. They even took turns pulling, I had my share x3 along Fwy5. GreatPace. Not too fast, not too slow..<br /><br />We picked up our frontlights at check point 3. Finally got a hold of Francis on the cell. He was 25 miles behind but yet not to wait to just "go, go, go". Before we left I saw Steve Gilmore. The guy who climbed up Fargo Hill x101. He holds the record. This was his first Double as well. What a small world. He told me he will try FargoHill again but on his UNICYCLE.. My mouth dropped with disbelieve. I guess we have to see it to believe it.<br /><br />Mile 150 was when the big long climbing began with lots of rollers and steep curvy descend along Trabuco Canyon. We rode that curvy steep descend in the dark, pitch dark, like your eyes closed dark. Itwas eery, but yet thrilling.I kept saying to myself "F-O-C-U-S, keep your brakes on". We survived the descend and the last Check Pointthey served CUP-O-NOODLES. Yummyy.. It was getting very cold and that hot soup hit the spot, along with my Tylenol and a coke.. Ahhhh...Still no sign of Francis. At least he got his bike fixed in Temecula..<br /><br />Susan, I called her Mother hen from the Bullshifter was their timekeeper. She would shout "2 more minutes boys and we're rolling"She would shout out how much longer they had to stay until taking offon every Check Point. What a great job and that she did very well. Steep Climbing began on Mile 170. I'm glad it was in the dark because if I saw that hill during the day, my legs would have probably been screaming for MERCY.. At least in the dark, you focus one pedal stroke at a time. The last 5 miles felt forever. We were on Portola Pky and I told the Bullshifter "Oh ya it's all downhill from here on " NNOOTTTT... It was2% gradient. But yet we kept a high pace because HOME was NEARBY.. Once we got to Sand Canyon it was free for all.. 4 attacked including myself on the downhill. What an exilerating feeling when I saw the FWY5. That meant 1/2 mile left until the END.. We regrouped at the signal light and rode together at the finish line, 8:11 pm. Francis arrived at 9pm via taking the flat route back to the finish line. He still rode 200 miles via detours.<br /><br />Had dinner with the Tandem Riders Foster and Linda along with Francis and the Bullshifters. THE END MY FAVORITE QUOTE:" It is good to have an end to a journey, but it is the journey that matters in the end. "Next Double, Death Valley Double Century this Saturday. Riders will be me, Pete and Francis.<br /><br />-ROSALIE<br /><br />PS. Of all days of riding, I didn't bring my camera during my double. But one of the volunteers did take pictures.<br /><a href="http://s259.photobucket.com/albums/hh314/shellenbarger/Camino%20Real%202009/?albumview=grid">http://s259.photobucket.com/albums/hh314/shellenbarger/Camino%20Real%202009/?albumview=grid</a><br />I will definitely bring my camera and a helmet camera this Saturday's Death Valley Double Century.<br /><br /><span style="color:#ffff33;">Luis P. - Congratulations Rosalie! Wow, I can't imagine sitting on a bike for that long. I sit all day at work and it hurts. That is a great accomplishment. Someday I'll find the time and courage to do it, plus just the training takes a lot of time and dedication.You rule!</span><br /><span style="color:#ffff33;"></span><br /><span style="color:#ffff33;">Ryan R. - You kick ass girl Rosalie, Congrats!!!</span><br /><span style="color:#ffff33;"></span><br /><span style="color:#ffff33;">Frank N. - What a " great accomplishment" and a really nice ride blog. Congratulations again!!!</span><br /><span style="color:#ffff33;"></span><br /><span style="color:#ffff33;">Elardi L. - Congratulation Rosalie to the job well DONE!</span><br /><span style="color:#ffff33;"></span><br /><span style="color:#ffff33;">Dennis G. - really enjoyed reading your blog about your Double Century. It's as if I was there. I live vicariously through your feats of greatness, Darna. If I can only, someday, do a double century! Have a safe, fun ride. Good luck this weekend to you, Francis and Pete. Weather should be nice this time of year in Death Valley.</span>AdoboVelo Wire Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14564509633139075984noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399788279623015271.post-3776246530148530722009-02-16T08:25:00.000-08:002009-02-18T09:33:22.918-08:00Tour De Palm Springs Post Ride Report<strong><span style="color:#33ccff;">Mang El:</span></strong><br /><span style="color:#ffff99;">The dinner was the best after the century ride. Dennis parents in Law didn't waste time handling us plates when we arrived to their place knowing that we were so tired & hungry. I observed every body got a second round. There were enough food but I just concentrated with the BBQ sticks & kare-kare. Sure, I believed everybody was stuffed after eating a cake.Thank you Dennis & wife, (Fances) for your frienship/hospitali ty& extend this to your In Laws. I hope you had a wonderful time on your first century ride & see you again next time.</span><br /><br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#33ccff;">Victor C:</span></strong><br /><span style="color:#ffff99;">Weather was excellent and the kare-kare and bagoong after thye ridewas the best. Despite mechanical problems, over all this was a goodride. The headwind during the first 16 miles made it feel like wewere going up a 10% grade. We regrouped at the first SAG stop whereDeo and Louie joined us after their late start. We then allproceeded down Dillon where we reached speeds of over 40 MPH. Itfelt good to see the Adobos attacking the downhill. We were passingriders left and right as if they were standing still. Then all of asudden...POW...all I can say is Michelin Pro Race 3 tires suck. I amdefinitely writing a letter to the manufacturer. Had to ride the SAGvan to the 2nd SAG stop where I purchased a $10 tire for $20. Putthe cheap tire on and rode back to the finish line ending up withonly 66 miles. While waiting for the rest of the guys, I decided toride some more so I back-tracked about 5-7 miles from the finish androde back with riders as they came in. Did this several times andended up crossing the finish line 4 times and got some extra shirtsin the process. I waited for the guys about two blocks from thefinish and we all crossed the finish line together as a group. LaterI learned that the Deo and Ryan had some mechanical problems as well -Deo had a broken shifter cable and Ryan had slow leaks on bothtires. Thanks to Dennis and family for the after ride dinner. I'mdefinitely doing this ride again next year with all intentions ofdoing the whole 102 miles next time.</span><br /><br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#33ccff;">Filbert:</span></strong><br /><span style="color:#ffff99;">It was a perfect weather for this ride, but what makes it more perfect and more memorable is actually having a "fan club" in the cycling community. There were several times we were approached by other cyclist to have a picture taken with the Adobo riders. During the stops we got compliments hearing "I love Adobo". Yeah they know the food...now they know the group. Just like Mang El said to me during the ride...the Adobo Velo name is getting out in the cycling community and we must be doing something good and right.<br /><br />I cannot express how privileged I am to be a member of the Adobo velo family. I was the "kupad" rider of the group in Palm Springs, but the main reason I finished the ride was the camaraderie of the other members. Deo and El never gave up on me especially during the climbs, pushing me and sharing a draft when we needed it. Deo and El just want to say thanks for all the coaching advise.<br />After reaching the 50 mile marker, not only did I brake my water bottle holder, I ended up loosing my 2 water bottles during the ride and there was just no way i was going to drop away from the group. Jun and Dennis helped out by coaching me on pacing and conserving any energy I have left. Jun lent me one of his water bottles and shared his power bar till I hydrate myself on the next stops.<br />The best part of the ride is when you have cheering squad in one of the corner of the route. Dennis' family was holding a banner up in the air saying " Go Adobo Velo!!!" They provided a special SAG stop keeping us hydrated with Gatorade and a special mix of "super food". They provided us with bananas and oranges. Not only did they feed the Adobos, but Dennis' wife, his two sons, and his in-laws were also distributing foods to the other riders that was pacing with us (Incyling Club).<br /><br />I wasn't able to join the Adobos after the ride for a Bb-Q. My wife was with me and had planned for dinner. Knowing the hospitality and the support of the Gorospe family, having a BB-Q at their home is the best way to end the day.</span><br /><br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#33ccff;">Ike:</span></strong><br /><span style="color:#ffff99;">I had the privilege of staying with the Gorospe family fo e night. Words can't explain the total hospitality they extended to me this morning Dennis I went riding for a quick 17 mile spin just had lunch an am heading back home. My rib cage was hurtingon the uphill portions of the century. Hooking up with SoCalVelo (InCycle) riders who had 2 tandems made it a fast ride when they weren't having flats. I think the group had 15 + flat tires. - was the last Adobo to finishe becaus - waited for the tandems with the last flat making it a fast ride back to th finish with 2 tandems pulling me in. Riding with incycle was a very good workout. Wished a lot more adobos could of been there to join the paceline. With al the stops and waiting, it took over 8 hours, but don't be decieved, when were were going on the flats we were cruising @ 27mph+ hit 44 mph on some of the long down hills. For non climbers like me the climbing was tolerable even w/ a stiff wind in our face. Our club really stood out because passed most riders and would always counter attack anyone that tried to attack us. Almost every filipino at the sag stops would come by and inquire about our club. There was a couple ladies from lllinnios that stop by, even some "white folk" came by and asked what adobo was. A very enjoyable Century. Would you believe this was my first social organized century ride!</span><br /><br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#33ccff;">Lito:</span></strong><br /><span style="color:#ffff99;">I too extend my thank you for the hospitality to Dennis and family.What a small world we live in because his father in law worked withmy dad in Pasadena. I tell ya, when mang El gets his motor pacing hecan crank. We followed this aero bike all the way to the second sagand the guy kept on his heaviest gear cranking on the rolling hillsand he took us pass 45mph the last time I checked my speedometer...Iwas too afraid to even look at that gauge. I didn't think the aeroguy wanted anybody back there but I had a blast back drafting of mangEl. I wish I had my video setup cause I've seen attack afterattack. There were instances where my gears were maxed out but thosetwo still kept on hammering. Compact is good but not in a chase likethat. At the end, the aero bike was abused and used by mang EL.</span><br /><br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#33ccff;">Mang El:</span></strong><br /><span style="color:#ffff99;">Yup.. that guy was very strong & fast but knowing that I was behindhim, he he... all I had to do was glance at you if you're stillaround. Yes Lito, you kept up with the pace & before that guy gaveup, there was another guy we overtook & got hooked up with. That wasthen when you did a good attack & boom... did the guy get away?No way, cuz if he did I was there behind just waiting. That was fun& very challenging. It's just like the racing mood/pace.You should see Ike before the first sag stop. It was windy & theroute was gradually inclined. All I noticed was, he just kepttailing behind Bong with Lito & almost 2/3rd of the incline hewhispered & told me "I was in my smallest gear", hmm .. finally hisside started hurting so we slowed down to relax but knowing Ike, hejust recovered a little then, he started sucking wheels again.Ike, you're something else & actually you don't know how to slowdown yet.We waited at the first Sag stop where Deo & Louie caught up with us.After the first Sag stop, Ike started hammering again when one guypassed by with a steady pace. Ike tailed this guy until he ran outof breath... then the rolling hills started. Did you say 45mph? Ifelt very comfortable with my Scattante. Yup it was fast that Ithought this guy will never slow down... overall, it was exciting.Then the Incycle came to our sight led by old buddy Demie. The pacewas very steady that even Deo said "We had a free ride". The onlyregrets were, too many flats & of course we ended up waiting.That was fun cuz most of the guys were racers & we got a chanceriding with them & of course I/we felt like racers too.Now, the Adobovelo group is more recognized by the Incycle group &we proved that we are not that easy to fall behind. At the end, someof them were hurting & slowly dropped.We regrouped (Adobo) ourselves at the last Sag stop & we slowlytraveled to the end of the ride. We got there almost 4pm.After the ride..... we just washed up a little & we headed toDennis' place for "BBQ & Kare-Kare.For me that was a good century ride. We experienced headwind,gradual ascending route that we almost pushed to the limit, fastpace on a long rolling/descending road where we had fun chasing fastguys...We also experienced flats starting with Victor & Ryan thenmechanical problem with Deo's broken cable. Inspite of all these noaccidents happened.Thanks for a good ride with our adobo friends ..Dennis/Ike/Deo/Louie/Filbert/Ryan/Lito & Victor. See you in the nextcentury ride?Jun Usi didn't have a chance to be with us. He thought we were toofar ahead so he just kept pedalling until he finished. He finishedby 1:30pm. Jun, you missed the group & the dinner. I hope youenjoyed your ride anyway.</span><br /><span style="color:#ffff99;"></span><br /><strong><span style="color:#00cccc;">Ryan:</span></strong><br /><span style="color:#ffff99;">Lesson learned for me not to use tubular tire on a century ride. Although, I was able to hang up with the group all the way but the hesitation that my front wheel might fold while riding would not let go off my mind. I got a flat on the first sag and the mechanic put on my spare without gluieng it, so, its pretty scary for me thinking I still have 80 miles to go. At the lunch sag the rear tire has a small leak but I dont have anymore spare to use, I keep on pedalling and pumping my rear tire every sag. Thanks to all adobo guys cause I know there is always somebody I can count on in case problem arises. I pity Victor on this ride cause he prepared so much for this, but his tire blew up on the 30 miles mark. Indeed it was a well deserve ride, inspite of some mechanical issues not to mention the very nice weather and the support from each cyclist from other clubs. Thanks to Dennis and family for a very warm welcome to your house and the dinner. Dennis even bought a cake for Mang El for his post birthday celebration and we have a small salo-salo and a birthday celebration at the same time. Congrats to all adobos and more power.</span><br /><span style="color:#ffff99;"></span><br /><br /><span style="color:#33ffff;"><strong>Dennis G:</strong></span><br /><span style="color:#ffff99;">The Tour de Palm Springs preparation started for me when I joined Adobo Velo last Summer. I could not have fathomed that I could finish 100 miles and be able to stand up afterwards. With all the training rides on weekends and weekdays, I was well prepared and well trained. Thanks Adobo Velo for preparing me for this gruelling ride. I think I speak for Filbert in by saying if it were not for Adobo, this ride would have been impossible.<br /><br />The prospect of rain scared off a few potential riders. Those who committed to the ride, rain or shine, were rewarded with sunshine, 65 degrees temp, no clouds in the sky. Perfect riding weather.<br /><br />The Adobos that made it to the ride, Ike, El, Filbert, Deo, Ryan, Victor, Louis, Lito were full of comraderie. The Astigs would push the pace 45+mph and us slow guys (Filbert & I) will try to keep up. Deo and Louis would stay back to push us along. Always knowing that everyone regroups at the SAG stops. The first 16 mile climb, with headwinds of 15-20mph , was the toughest for me since I have not trained on hill, yet. I just said to myself, "Take it easy, there will be lots of downhills later, 84 miles to go."<br /><br />On one long particular stretch of rolling hills, after the 25 mile SAG, I can attest to you that Deo indeed broke a shifter cable as was mentioned in previous blogs. He stayed on his biggest gear the whole way pulling both Filbert and I , maxing at 42MPH! I felt like a PRO! Luckily there were mechanics to fix Deo's cable and Ryan's sew-ups at the 55 mile SAG. People kept coming up to us saying "I like Adobo!" There were a few Filipinas inquiring about our group. We felt so proud.<br /><br />We met up with the InCycle Group at the 55 mile SAG. Ike hooked up with his old riding buddy, Dr. Demi Hechevara from the Philippines. Demi is one of the leaders of InCycle. He is now a cardiologist in Glendale .They had 2 tandem teams pulling for them. When we grouped together, Adobo + InCycle, we had a 30+ peloton and cruised at 27 MPH. Unfortunately, with a very large groups means lots of flats. The Adobo group then decided to let Filbert & I go ahead, with Louis Rivera leading the paceline. We had a 3 man breakaway. Hehe...<br /><br />The rest of the group caught up with the 3 man breakaway at the 68 mile mark. This is where my family was waiting close to our house in La Quinta. Waving a sign with "Pinoy Power, Adobo Velo" . My wife and kids, mother and father-in-law, were there to cheer us on. We were also able to unload the extra layers of clothes from the chilly morning start. Oranges, bananas, juice, gatorade were available. Filbert really needed to refuel because his bottle cages had broke and he lost both bottles! It was a timely refueling stop.<br /><br />At the 75 mile SAG, Deo, Louis, Ryan, Filbert and I left the InCycle, because on another flat in their group. Deo led a great pull as we passed other groups of riders.<br /><br />Finally at the 90 mile SAG, the rest of the group joined together. We cruised and finished the last 4 miles as one group. My total saddle time was 6:04. This was close to my 6:00 goal. Total ride time, including pit stops was 9 hours! Ouch!<br /><br />At home, warm Pilipino food was waiting for us. Kare-kare, BBQ, rice, salad, champagne toast. We even had a cake for El's birthday. His birthday was the previous day, 2/13. Family and friends retelling our day's cycling adventure.<br /><br />Next day, Ike and I did a 17 mile loop with some hills to stretch our legs. Boy did that feel good!<br /><br />It was really a pleasure doing my first century ride with Adobo Velo. It was also a first century for Filbert and Ike.<br /><br />We will do it again next year. This time with more Adobos, rain or shine. The Adobo Spirit reigns</span>.AdoboVelo Wire Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14564509633139075984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399788279623015271.post-33377949490776256372009-02-11T19:02:00.000-08:002009-09-12T23:07:21.752-07:00LAVRA Cup TT and Omnium (Series 1) Post-Race ReportADT Event Center's First series of Omnium of the year started well. Time trials were held in the morning and an Omnium later in the afternoon. This series consists of 5 TTs and Omniums that is scheduled over the next few months. To be eligible for the LAVRA Cup, the rider must participate in all the same TTs and /or Omniums. So this means, everyone who competed last Saturday has the chance to win the Cup. This also turned out to be an important event if you are aiming for the Cup, as the overall winner will receive a trophy and a jersey. Example: Wilson raced the Cat1/2/3 Omnium and I raced the flying 200M, 500M time trials, and Master's 40+ Omnium. So in a way, we are stuck with those races but can still participate in all other races. So far so good! All other stronger riders who did not show up and starts competing later means they are not in contention for the Cup. So let's hope that we can be there for the whole series.<br /><br />That day started really early preparing for the TTs. Unloading all your gear, prepping-up to get on the track, registration, hoping to get someone pin your race number properly, and your warm-ups. Found out I was the first off the line to do the Flying 200M TT, with another 19 trackies after me. So far, preparing up to that moment was just as planned. The sprint itself felt fine and had lots of time resting for the 500M TT. I didn't have any problems changing to a different wheelset and gear ratio as I was the 5th person off the gate. This event is not my specialty but I can get used to it. My gear turned out to be lighter than I expected but still managed a decent result. This 2-lap sprint off the gate felt endless as I was pushing the bike hard all the way to the finish. After cooling down, I immediately prepared to go home for some decent meal and much needed rest. I tell you, I felt refreshed after I returned for the Omnium! Just the kind of break I needed! Here's a nice pic of the Velodrome with an ADOBO Velo in the mix.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301747388805837858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxm4md3GIJlcOWjIJOKsQLBXzOA-L7xMl15maPCA_KvCgoIbVJdP96aSKXCrgFChF4zQNxLdG96A_EPF0B_xGwSj4FC8JPGmdu0m0WtaEv68S-278vY_bP2mw1NLldy_GNC9Eawca9Vvq7/s400/FEB+7+09+ADT+076.jpg" border="0" /><br /><p>The afternoon Omnium was another hectic beginning as the dugout was packed and no where to mark your spot. My area in the morning was taken when I returned and I ended up with someone else's spot. I guess it was a domino effect. Wilson was there ready to race and was scheduled for Cat1/2/3 Omnium with 4 races: a 70-lap Points Race, 20-lap Tempo Race, Miss N'Out, and lastly a 20-lap Scratch Race. I was scheduled for Master's 40+ Omnium with 3 races, Miss N'Out, a 15-lap Scratch Race and lastly a 30-lap Points Race. Ayvel, Louie, Rosalie, Oscar, and Gil with his family were there for the festivities. Our races were hard and brutal that it didn't seem we had any decent finishes. Wilson earned points from his 2 races and used all his strength for a tight finish in the last race. It was about the same for my races also. As it turned out, we gave some decent competition and we had some respectable overall finishes. Hopefully you had the chance to see the pictures taken by Rosalie and Louie which are now posted in our picasaweb album. Here's another nice pic! Wilson Blas racing against Justin Williams of Rock Racing during the Points Race.</p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301748418941242930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB5Zk3mq-GcWGzg8vhbMQruWlNEC9_LiNr45qyOKHb1YURLIWsTyS29UdlMBrF02QtB-Vm0aP9AxjqSbDrOrk0RoU5fdyxygUy9trdj4FPy9YnKGrKswUh6wsEVsfazqsMXocMOoFNCDXU/s400/FEB+7+09+ADT+089.jpg" border="0" /> </p>By the way, the results were just posted and you can see them at ADT's website. Here's some details: Wilson: 4th in the Scratch Race and 6th in the Miss N'Out. Arden: 6th in the Miss N'Out, 5th in the Scratch Race, and 4th in the Points Race. You will be amazed once you see them on-line. Check them out! I myself was amazed… Now it's just a matter of training constantly and compete in the other events. Remember, we have to be there at all other LAVRA Cup events! Here's the <a href="http://www.lavelodrome.org/Races/Results20090207.htm">results</a>. Many thanks for the members who were there for the moral support and your posts of appreciation!AdoboVelo Wire Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14564509633139075984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399788279623015271.post-77881174414105757372009-01-26T08:10:00.000-08:002009-01-31T20:12:20.524-08:00First weekend racing for the ADOBO Velo Racing TeamJanuary 24-25,2009<br /><br />First weekend racing for the ADOBO Velo Racing Team is now in our history books. It was very competitive and everyone had a great time. Saturday was an Omnium at ADT Event Center where I raced Master's 45+ Division in the morning and Wilson Blas in the Cat 3 Division later in the afternoon. Then Sunday was Criterium racing in Long Beach for Deo Asuncion, Al Villamil, Ike Carbajal, and Wilson Blas.<br /><br />Saturday early morning… I thought I arrived early to get settled in but was surprised to see the parking lot almost full and the rear access to the track blocked! Found out that the main infield was being used for junior volleyball competition and the games started before I arrived at 7:15am. Race registration didn't start till 7:30 and the track will not open until 8 o'clock! By not being able to drive to the rear entrance and unload all my gear, this meant I just have to park the van and haul all my gear down! At least the track was still closed that it gave me a shorter trek to the infield from the front entrance but in 2 trips. No worries, this ordeal was still manageable. My races were Miss N'Out, then a 30-lap Points Race, and lastly a 20-lap Scratch Race. The way I thought of the first race the day before played out as planned as I hate to fight for position at the back each lap as there were 15 other tracksters competing. So here we are finally in the race, I treated the neutral lap to position myself to take the lead when race starts, and it worked! I paced the group for 10 laps as the others were trying to intimidate me to go faster and being the Good Samaritan to protect my back. Well, that really meant "burn yourself out so we can out-sprint you later" kind'a deal! I'm glad I sticked to my plan but I totally forgot to keep track of the riders left as the laps go by. Down to 4, they overtook me and were sprinting side by side which left me no room to move up! That meant I got eliminated the next lap. It was ok with me since those 3 were respectable Cat 2 competitors and not to mention my best Miss N'Out finish ever! The next race was the 30-lap Points Race with 5, 3, 2, and 1 points given every 10 laps for the top 4. This time I concentrated on positioning to sprint for the first bell lap and just get a respectable finish when this race is over.The first 10 laps were tight and we were getting mixed until it was down to 21 laps for the first bell. I was trapped inside behind the lead but for some mindless reason, this dude in front of me moved to this right with half a lap to go, like a teammate but not! That created a surprise opening for me and blocked everyone else! What a given opportunity! Needles to say, I took the first bell lap with about 5 bike lengths of sprinting before climbing up the banking to rejoin the group! That's 5 points in the bag! The pace slowed down and we were all packed again. This time someone broke away with a few more laps before the bell and I just sat in conserving and just finishing strong. I lost count of how many were in front and how many were behind me. When the results were posted, I stayed 4th overall withone more race to go. This time I was tired and in pain! At least there was enough time to rest between races that I did easy spins on rollers and sipped on Gatorade. Got back to the track for the 20-lap scratch race, the last race and I still wasn't sure what I wanted to do! As the race went on, I later found myself taking the turn to pull the group with loner breaking away the lap prior. With 15 laps to go and 14 riders behind me, I made my calculation if it's better to catch the breakaway while he is still about a third of a lap away, or might end up at the back and miss my chance to move up when the paceline gets broken thinking 15 laps will get brutal really quick. I wasn't sure if I made the right decision but I went for the break with just one rider following me. 12 riders stayed intact. We caught the loner the next lap and continued on with the breakaway taking short half-lap pulls. We managed to create a half lap lead but we were eventually caught with 2 laps to go! Bummer! As I was weakening, I poured all my strength to the finish knowing that the pain will be over in less than a minute and as even if some riders were passing me till the end. Not sure how I placed but I still got kudos from the officials, friends, and the people who knew me. Overall, I dropped from 4th place to 5th out of 14 others. Not too pleased about it but was really thrilled having the chance to cause havoc and dominate the field. The nicest thing about this event was with all the moves I did, i.e. pacing the group during the MissN'Out, sprinting for the first bell-lap during the Points Race, and the time I was on a break-away on the Scratch Race, it made the announcer mention "ADOBO Velo" a few times. I actually think it was about 20 times but I might be exaggerating. It really felt we made a statement and as it was another beginning for the club. I also knew that there's got to be a Pinoy in the crowd watching their daughters at the volleyball games that also watched me race. I think we got the word out a bit just by that. Thanks to Egay, Arnold, Dennis, El,and Gil for the words of encouragement. This made me feel that we are all together on our new quest!<br /><br />Later that afternoon, it was Wilson's turn to compete. Unfortunately, I left for home for a nightout with the family. Wilson was registered to race the tough Category 1/2/3 Division but the Category 3 was later separated because of the large number of competitors and there were 5 of them. Thanks to our friend Gil for letting him try his disk wheel. I was not able to get enough details of his Omnium today (Sunday) because he was also racing 2 Criterium races. What an animal! He thinks he finished 3rd overall as we will just wait until the results gets posted online. He had some bruises too! That meant he was involved in a crash. With his outstanding finish, I'm also thinking that the announcer also mentioned our club a few times! That's a whole day for him to say ADOBO Velo! Congratulations Wilson!<br /><br />Today, was another day for the ADOBO Velo Racing Team: This time itwas Criterium Racing! The cast: Dwight 'Ike' Carbajal racing Masters 40+ Cat 1/2/3 and the Masters 50+ Crits. Astig Wilson Blas racing 30+ Cat 3/4 and 30+ Cat 1,2,3 Crits. Astig Deograves Asuncion and Al Villamil raced Category 3. Egay, Agimat, Lanier, Jeffrey, Lito, and Albert where there to see them race. Our friends Gil and Henry were there too! Ike was not able to finish his 2nd race because of a flat. Wilson, Deo, and Al duked it out and finished with the peloton. There was a moment that made the day when the Cat 3 race started, Deo was pacing the pack for 2 laps while Al was at the back. We had the WHOLE peloton in check! After that, it was time for serious business. Awesome job by our competitors!<br /><br />Next on the schedule:<br />Jan 30 - Training Race at ADT Velodrome<br />Feb 7 - LAVRA Omnium Series at ADT Velodrome<br />Feb 8 - another CBR Crit but at Dominguez Hills<br /><br />-ARDENAdoboVelo Wire Servicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14564509633139075984noreply@blogger.com0