ADOBO Velos swarming and snaking up Fargo Hill Climb!

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. Oh, that pic above, that was Manny Amit doing a STRAIGHT climb... IMPOSSIBLE! 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...

Here’s El's post at the Yahoo Group... 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!!
Naturally, my sprinting fingers started typing to clear up what he just posted: 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!!!!
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.

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!

If the event wasn’t stopped by the LA's Finest , the number of climbs could have been higher!

Here’s the results:

Rosalie Kneebone- 16 climbs (1st place, New Women’s Record)
Doug Kubler 30 climbs - 1st place
Jesse Agrezor- 26 climbs (2nd place, ADOBO Velo, ASTIG Ride)
William Aligue- 23 climbs (3rd place, ADOBO Velo, 2008 CoTY)
Pete Primavera- 19 climbs (4th place, ADOBO Velo)
Steve Gilmore 11 climbs (record holder of 101 crazy climbs). Looks like he was conserving for the afternoon but cut short!
Alain Giaimo (Santa Clarita Velo) - 7 climbs on his road bike
Gerard Gabrang- 3 climbs
Manny Amit- 2 climbs
Mandy Genato- 1 climb (3rd place but in a different category!)
Lito Aralar - Climbed 3/4 of the distance and attempted many times.

And our spectators: 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.

As expected, Mang El’s post days before triggered some replies and here’s one from Rosalie who mentally prepared for this event… “Mang El... I think you will go broke...but you’re lucky because the cops came and stopped the Fargo Hill Climb Challenge, boohooo!"

Naturally, thanks to our spotters. Dennis, Manolito and Pete for helping our mountain goats!

Here’s a post event report copied from LA Wheelmen’s Fargo Hill webpage…

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:

60 riders signed up, 46 riders completed the climb.
Oldest Rider: Doug Kubler at 64 climbs. (Is that a typo?)
Youngest Rider: Andrew Karnes at 12 climbs.
New woman's record: Rosalie Kneebone at 16 climbs.
Most climbs: Doug Kubler at 30 climbs.

ALL-TIME RECORDS:
In 2008, Steve Gilmore set the men's record of 101 ascents, which took him 9 hours.
Rosalie Kneebone's 16 this year is the women's record, surpassing her 12 in 2008.

Could have been a goal of 22 climbs if the event wasn’t stopped!

Here's some nostalgia and great mechanical engineering!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! There will be plans to escort him on his last day of the ride. Website: http://www.aidslifecycle.org/

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!

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!

Henry posted this as a FARSTOP! (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.

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.

From Fixie Gil… 16X!!! AWESOME!!! Congratulations 'Adobo Chick' and all the Adobo Velos!!!

From Dong…Congrats to each participating Adobo Velos! For future reference, what gears did you use? “Granniest gears you have... MTB with 22x34t is what I used”, said Darna. I think she meant chainring at 22t and 34t for the cog!!

Fargo Hill Webpage:
http://www.lawheelmen.org/fargo.htm

Photo and videos by Mary Raffety:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/merider/sets/72157615324509486/
http://www.mydogparty.blogspot.com/

Pics from Dan Wyman:
http://www.pbase.com/coaster/fargo_street_hill_climb__2009

Dan, I used some of your photos. I hope you don't mind. Thanks.

And the video from Time Warner. You'll see the ADOBO Velos snake up this %$#@^p road!

http://www.lawheelmen.org/fargo09_timewarner.mov

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.

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! Balato naman d'yan!

Thanks and happy climbing!

- Arden (The no- show!)

The 3rd Double Century that Rosalie earned for the right to be a 2009 California Triple Crown Cyclist!

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)

- 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. Francis I.

- Simply AMAZING!!!! That is one (X3) super accomplishment. Only 3 months into the year! WOW. Congratulations again. Frank N.

- That is absolutely SUPER! Great Job Rosalie Darna! My Hero! Ed M.

- KILLER!!!...Lipad high and don't look back! Great job Rosalie! You are our hero, Darna!... Gil

- 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). Arnold I.

- Congratulations, Rosalie! You are one heckuva cyclist - wish you more laurels to come! Albert J.

- 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! Arden

Here's Rosalie’s Solvang Spring Double Ride Report:

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.

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.

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.

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!

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. 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.
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.

GREAT RIDE with GREAT COMPANY!!!
Total time -13 hrs 30 mins
Rolling time - 11 hrs 45 mins

Until the next DOUBLE (2 more) .... KOM CHALLENGE… Here we come!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

-ROSALIE

Feb 28,2009 Death Valley Spring Double Century Ride Report

Rosalie's 2nd double century...

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. 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, 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. 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!!! 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. 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. 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. We all had dinner at Furnace Creek. Post ride recovery food for some and carbo-load for me, Pete and Francis. 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. 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.
We woke up at 4am, ate, donned our Adobokit, put our gears and bike on my car and drove to Furnace Creek.
We were in the second start wave, 6:10am. 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.
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. 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.
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!! 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!!
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.
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. 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!!!
We got to Furnace Creek mile150 at 5:50pm. 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. They treated us like royalty. 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.
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.
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!!!"
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.
We caravaned to Badwater. Took pictures and drove the route all the way to Shashone. Had lunch at the Greek Restuarant at Baker and celebrated Kuya Ricky's birthday. Lunch was on him. Thanks Kuya Ricky.

Great hard double and to top it off, a weekend spent not only with great riders but great friends.

-ROSALIE

Louie Rivera and daughters at Solvang Century

Solvang 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.
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!

- Louie

Astig Rosalie's First Double Century at Camino Real

From: Rosalie
To: ADOBOvelo@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Friday, February 27, 2009 12:06:41 AM
Subject: Camino Real Double Century Post Ride Report

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.

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.

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.

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.

"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!!!

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..

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.

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..

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.

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.

-ROSALIE

PS. Of all days of riding, I didn't bring my camera during my double. But one of the volunteers did take pictures.
http://s259.photobucket.com/albums/hh314/shellenbarger/Camino%20Real%202009/?albumview=grid
I will definitely bring my camera and a helmet camera this Saturday's Death Valley Double Century.

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!

Ryan R. - You kick ass girl Rosalie, Congrats!!!

Frank N. - What a " great accomplishment" and a really nice ride blog. Congratulations again!!!

Elardi L. - Congratulation Rosalie to the job well DONE!

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.

Tour De Palm Springs Post Ride Report

Mang El:
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.


Victor C:
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.


Filbert:
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.

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.
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.
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).

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.


Ike:
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!


Lito:
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.


Mang El:
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.

Ryan:
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.


Dennis G:
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.

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.

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."

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.

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...

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.

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.

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!

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.

Next day, Ike and I did a 17 mile loop with some hills to stretch our legs. Boy did that feel good!

It was really a pleasure doing my first century ride with Adobo Velo. It was also a first century for Filbert and Ike.

We will do it again next year. This time with more Adobos, rain or shine. The Adobo Spirit reigns.

LAVRA Cup TT and Omnium (Series 1) Post-Race Report

ADT 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.

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.

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.

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 results. Many thanks for the members who were there for the moral support and your posts of appreciation!