The trials and tribulations encountered preparing for and racing RAAM 2009

So it comes to an end....

2009-08-14T06:41:00.007-05:00

Well, after nearly 5 years of planning and preparing we have executed RAAM. I wish i had some eloquent way to bring this to closure, but i don't. i keep telling myself if i just wait one more day i'll somehow be able with words to describe the experience myself and 7 of my closest friends and family whet through...but i can't. We went into an amazing battle together and came out the other side better people for it. RAAM has a crazy way of showing you who you really are and how you deal with "life as it happens". While this is my last RAAM as a racer, i look forward to helping others embark on their RAAM adventures as i feel it is an amazing medium for discovering yourself and what lies within you. Until we meet again somewhere down the road....bp

A Few Final Thoughts...and Images

2009-07-15T12:40:00.004-05:00

Over the next few days i'll complete my(and crew's) picture download here: RAAM Pictures
I'm still trying to decipher exactly what we went through and what happened...but stay tuned for a recap.
Also, Tuesday July 28th, I'm going to do a "RAAM recap presentation" at Now Bikes in St. Paul. We are doing a short ride at 6pm, then beer and cheese "Sconnie style"to accompany the talk. Good pics, videos and stories are a guarantee.
Finally, I want to say that i am so grateful for all the good thoughts and support everyone sent throughout. We needed everyone of those positive thoughts and comments left here to get through. I can't tell you how many times i was ready to mentally fail...only to be saved by a well wish read to me by the crew from the website. Your support meant the world.

Home

2009-06-30T21:34:00.003-05:00

Well, we made it home...what an epic adventure. I'll try and put some closing thoughts together, along with an online album of pics for everyone to recount the adventure. Thanks so much to Matt, my crew and all of you who helped will me across the us...not possible without the support of you all. Off to bed. ben

HE FINISHED!

2009-06-28T17:16:00.003-05:00

Sorry for the lack of posts the last day--family obligations. But I wanted to let you know, BEN FINISHED. Solo RAAM rookie finisher, 2009.

It's an absolutely amazing accomplishment. So raise your glasses...he's done. Safely.

-Matt

Less Than 300 Miles To Go!

2009-06-27T12:55:00.001-05:00

This will be a much welcomed sight. Annapolis, MD.

Cougar Sighting

2009-06-26T22:44:00.002-05:00

Live from the mountains of West Va. Miller lite, Whitesnake cassettes and Marb lights were discovered at the scene. Crue snapped a pic.

Day 10

2009-06-26T10:56:00.003-05:00

Entering Ohio at Sunrise...

Location: Blanchester, Ohio
Conditions: 78F, mostly cloudy, winds from the WNW @ 9
Miles covered: 2,458
Miles remaining: 563
Food for thought: In ancient Japan, public contests were held to see who in a town could fart the loudest and longest. Winners were awarded many prizes and received great recognition.

Long, straight Midwestern roads suck. Especially if they're poorly maintained and have lots of traffic. That was the sentiment from both rider and Crue after yesterday's jaunt through Indiana--according to TP member Peter A.

Today is Ohio. And things are looking better.

I got to talk to Peter this morning--Fairbanks was preening--and everyone is feeling the effects of limited sleep. However, the end is in sight and that's energizing Ben. Physically, his body is holding up well and there haven't been any major issues. It's just the sleep factor that's compounding. Ben is especially tired in the mornings and the Crue has to use Ninja mind tricks to un-groggy his mind and motivate him.

Ben is excited to enter the mountains of West Virginia, mostly for the varying terrain. He seems to thrive in hillier terrain versus the flat-ass plains. Right now, TP's plan is to push ahead to the W.V. foothills tonight and then bed down.

That's all for now.

-Matt

Day 9

2009-06-25T13:33:00.002-05:00

Just a quick voicemail update from Fairbanks. The Crue is in Indiana. Following yesterday's heat, Ben got a a saline IV and hit the road again. Apparently he hasn't looked as good since day one. More of the same today: heat + Ben riding strong. That's good news after the rough patch he had a few days ago.

Less than 800 miles to go. He's almost there folks.

I hope to have more for you later.

-Matt

Days Seven and Eight

2009-06-24T16:15:00.003-05:00

Location: Washington, Missouri
Conditions: 93F, partly cloudly, winds from NE @ 4, dew point 75F
Miles covered: 1,987
Miles remaining: 1,034
Food for thought: David Spade's baby Mama, Jillian Grace, is from Washington, Missouri, (Google at your own risk...)

It had to happen...a rough patch. Every RAAM rider goes through it. When you're doing a race as long as RAAM, it's going to happen many, many times.

Ben's first big rough patch was yesterday. Following on the heels of his 32-hour pull and rest, he got up yesterday, not quit right. That, combined with the 100-degree heat and humidity, made for a tough-ass day.

The Crue was icing him down every five minutes, feeding him fluids, trying to keep his spirits up, but it was challenging...

However, last night, after a hotel-bed rest, an IV and massage, Ben woke up like a new man. Fairbanks said that today, despite the heat, he's "riding like a champ," and his spirits are up.

In other RAAM excitement, the follow van had a flat tire yesterday. The RV had one today. At least no one on the Crue has butt implants, otherwise one of those would likely go flat too and need a changeout.

Next stop, the Mississippi River and less than 1,000 miles to go!

-Matt

It's Not You, It's Me...

2009-06-24T12:18:00.003-05:00

...in that I haven't been able to connect with Fairbanks over the last day (it's that damn work thing getting in the way of my RAAM reporting and the fact that the Crue is very busy).

So I'm not ignoring the updates, I'm just waiting for more info. In the meantime follow Larry's updates via Twitter. And Ben's progress on the RAAM leaderboard.

As soon as I talk with the Crue, I'll post more.

--Matt

Road Construction

2009-06-23T12:35:00.003-05:00

No daily update from the Crue yet, but Larry did post this to his Twitter account

Looks like Ben ran into a bit of summer road construction. Or it's a scene from a modern day Village People album cover...

-Matt

Quick Day Six Follow-Up

2009-06-22T10:58:00.002-05:00

According to Fairbanks, Ben has been on the bike for 32 hours--his longest pull yet--great tailwinds. The team is about 20 miles or so from Pratt, Kansas--the halfway point in the race. When they reach Pratt, it's nap time for both rider and Crue.

-Matt

Day Six -- Long, Hot & Straight

2009-06-22T10:07:00.004-05:00

Location: Plains, Kansas
Conditions: 86F, sunny, winds from the WSW @ 14, Gusting to 19, Dew Point 67F
Miles covered: 1,398
Miles remaining: 1,627
Food for thought: The fastest time to pluck a turkey is 1 min. 30 seconds, by Vincent Pilkington

It's hot out there. Eastern Kansas is under a heat advisory today with temps expected to reach 99F--that's right where Ben's saddle-chapped booty is headed...

Fairbanks called me last night for the weather forecast. Given that Ben had favorable winds and the temps were still moderate, they made the decision to have him ride through the night. Smart choice given the forecast for today. Ben well likely sleep during the hottest part of the day, giving him a well-needed break from the unrelenting sun.

After he makes his way--on straight, flat roads--through Kansas, he'll enter Missouri and then Illinois. Not a lot of updates for now, other than rider and crew remain in good spirits. The van hasn't gotten stuck again. And aside from some minor aches and pains, Ben remains in good health.

TP is almost at the half-way point, which has got to be a huge motivator.

Still, no sightings of the elusive wild cougar though....

-Matt

Stuck Van

2009-06-21T12:51:00.003-05:00

Here's a photo of the stuck van from Crue member Larry.

-Matt

Day Five--Abbreviated

2009-06-21T12:36:00.005-05:00

Just a quick update for now. I talked to Fairbanks for about 30 seconds before he had to hang up for a Crue change out--so I didn't get much. Team Popp just finished climbing Bobcat pass in New Mexico. It's the biggest vertical climb in RAAM. Now with the big mountains behind, Ben is on some welcomed flat terrain.

In other news the follow van got stuck. In mud I presume... A nice local helped tow them out. Hopefully I'll talk to Fairbanks later in the day and get some more info. Stay tuned...

-Matt

Live Video of Ben

2009-06-20T22:44:00.002-05:00

Thanks to Dan. Mucho Danke.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WfmMWKbWVdg

Notice the Pirate EYE PATCH!

Matt >---Danger--->

Tech Tidbit

2009-06-20T17:55:00.005-05:00

Here's a little fun tech tidbit from HED Cycling's Dino Edin. In addition to riding a HED frame on the flat stages, Ben is exclusively riding HED wheels.

What's cool is that Ben has HED's new Stinger 4 wheels. These haven't been released to the public yet. In fact, the only other people riding these are Team Columbia-Highroad which includes the likes of George Hincapie.

For those of you who aren't familiar, HED Cycling Products designs and manufactures 16 different models of composite, aerodynamic wheels (as well as aerobars), exported worldwide and used in events from the Tour de France and the Hawaiian Ironman(r).

-Matt

Day Four

2009-06-20T17:10:00.010-05:00

Location: Chama, New Mexico
Conditions: 57F, mostly cloudy, calm (though it did pour rain for about six hours earlier)
Miles covered: 934
Miles remaining: 2,087
Food for thought: In May 2007 a local auto mechanic bought a PowerBall ticket at a Chama gas station and won $68 million, perhaps TP should make a stop...

Lots of barn burning updates today. But first, check out the view outside of Chama...

Not bad, eh? It's mountain-ey. And according to Fairbanks, Ben really likes the mountains and has been riding like a rockstar anytime the road turns up or down. Yesterday alone, he climbed around 30,000 feet--that's the height of Mt. Everest. In fact, the Crue has had to rein his climbing enthusiasm in a bit, making sure he's saving enough energy for East of the Mississippi.

What makes this all the more interesting, is that Ben scratched his eye yesterday. So for the past 24 hours he's been riding looking like this:

Yep, with an eye patch...descending roads like this (at night to boot).

Gulp. Not my cup of tea.

Today, Ben will breifly re-enter Colordao and climb La Manga pass--the highest point in RAAM at nearly 11,000 feet--before jogging South to Taos, New Mexico. That's tonight's rest stop and the plan is for him to bed down for a three hour nap.

According to Fairbanks, both rider and Crue remain in good spirits. Ben's having fun and so are his loyal minions. However, sleep is rare and people are starting to get tired. This is what is trying for everyone involved in the race.

Healthwise Ben is faring very well. Aches and pains are popping up (achilles, patella), but they've got 2.5 doctors in the Crue plus a masssage therapist--so it's kind of like a roving HMO. Besides, after riding 1,000, a bit of soreness is to be expected.

That's all for now. I have some interesting tech tidbits from HED Cyling's Chris "Dino" Edin that I'll post in a bit.

Ciao,

-Matt

P.S. Certain readers have been clamoring for more Cougar updates. I promise that those will be coming.

Start Pics

2009-06-19T18:33:00.007-05:00

Here are some pictures from the RAAM starting line (courtesy of Greg Rhodes).

-Matt

Live from the Road

2009-06-19T16:53:00.002-05:00

Crue member Larry Foss is twittering and posting pics. Follow him at https://twitter.com/TheFixStudio

-Matt

Day Three

2009-06-19T14:35:00.005-05:00

Location: Mexican Hat, Utah
Conditions: 82F, sunny, winds calm
Miles covered: 679
Miles remaining: 2,341
Food for thought: Mexican Hat draws its name from this rock outcropping which resembles this

Hola Amigos. I'm back with the latest updates.

According to TP Crue member Fairbanks Hanley, Ben left Flagstaff early this morning at about 2:00 a.m., following a two- to three-hour rest. From there he rode northeast through Monument Valley National Park and up into Utah.

Fairbanks said that Ben continues to ride strong. He's steadily worked his way up through the field and currently sits in 7th place. While he's focused on the task at hand, he's still joking around and having fun--as evidenced by his keen spotting of a chalk phallus etched on the pavement which he insisted the Crue call me about.

There's been a conscious effort to feed Ben solid "real" foods, versus just simple sugars which can lead to sweetness overload and gut rot. Another thing working in Ben's favor is the fact that temps in the desert have been about 10-15 degrees below average which makes it easier to eat--even still, it has been warm.

The plan going forward is for Ben to ride about 300 miles per day and sleep approximately two hours. Additionally, the Crue is now on their seven-hour rotations (seven in the follow vehicle, followed by seven in the RV). So, hopefully all have settled into somewhat of a "routine".

Next up, the Colorado Rockies. Big climbs. Long descents. And more chalk art adorning the mountain passes.

That's all for now. Adios and El paseo ayuna.

-Matt

RAAM Documentary

2009-06-19T08:35:00.003-05:00

There's a RAAM documentary playing this Saturday in Uptown (Minneapolis). It's a film called Bicycle Dreams by Stephen Auerbach. Here's the official description:

"They are seekers, madmen, and angels hell-bent on riding across America on a bicycle in less than ten days. But what begins as the adventure of a lifetime is transformed in an instant when tragedy strikes the race. These voyagers discover what is truly at stake as they pedal on, praying for the deliverance only the finish line can bring. By journey's end, some are saved, others are lost, but all learn that the fuel that takes a soul toward its own true destiny is desire."

The screening is part of the Solstice film festival. Details are here. Check it out.

-Matt

Day Two

2009-06-18T13:38:00.007-05:00

Location: Prescott, Ariz.
Conditions: 71F, partly cloudy, winds from the SW @ 1 mph
Miles covered: 350-ish
Miles remaining: 2,600-ish
Food for thought: The Captain and Tennille live in Prescott, Ariz.

I just got off the phone with Ben’s crew and Day One is in the books. According to Owen “Fairbanks” Hanley and “Patient” Megan (Ben’s wife), things couldn’t have gone any better than they did. Favorable winds helped Ben keep up his average speed. He’s still in good spirits (i.e. not too tired yet). And while he had some minor stomach complaints from all the simple sugars (nothing to worry about and totally normal), he kept up his calorie and fluid intake. Most important, he’s riding well, looking good and staying positive.

In the next few hours Team Popp (TP) will stop at a motel in either Cottonwood or Flagstaff, Ariz., and “put Ben down” for his first sleep since starting the race. At that point the crew will formulate a plan for the coming day(s). Let’s hope it includes better sightseeing observations/commentary… All I’ve gotten from Owen thus far is “it’s neat to see all the ecosystems…” I told him Ben’s readers deserve more (like a wild cougar sighting).

One last note, if you’re following Ben on Twitter, you’ll notice that he fired off a few tweets last night. Fear not, he’s not texting while riding, it’s just Owen sending updates from Ben's phone.

Stay tuned for more and send your positive juju Ben’s way.

-Matt

Track His Progress

2009-06-18T10:06:00.005-05:00

It's not time for my daily update yet, but I wanted to share an easy way for you to track Ben's progress (where he is, miles ridden, etc.). Click here to visit his "racer report" on RAAM's site.

Additionally, you can view the overall race standings here. Note that RAAM's Web site has been inundated with traffic and is operating really slow--and sometimes not at all.

More later...

-Matt

He's Off

2009-06-17T14:18:00.006-05:00

Location: Oceanside, Calif.
Conditions: 70F, cloudy, winds from the SW @ 7 mph
Miles covered: 0
Miles remaining: 3,021.3
Food for thought: This is the best Ben’s arse will feel in a long, long time…

It’s official, folks, he’s off. A few minutes ago, Ben started the 2009 Race Across AMerica (RAAM). The route is more than 3,000 miles, touching 14 states and climbing more than 100,000 feet. Solo racers typically finish in nine to 12 days, averaging 250 to 350 miles per day. This is a 24x7 endeavor for both rider and crew.

Solo racers have the challenge of balancing a few hours of sleep each night against race deadlines. According to Outside magazine, there is no tougher individual endurance event in the world. Crews have to keep the roving melee moving along despite weather, broken vehicles, filled-to-the-rim RV potties and at times, fraying nerves (imagine crossing the country at 10-15 miles-an-hour in a tin box with your closest family and friends).

The plan for Team Popp (TP for short) is to ride the next 36 hours straight without a break. Why? This allows Ben to ride through the hottest section of the course (California and Arizona deserts) at night. For reference, it’s about 100F during the day right now…not ideal riding conditions. After about 36 hours, Ben should be near Flagstaff, Ariz., where he’ll bed down for a 3-hour rest, butt airing and tasty snack.
Stay tuned for tomorrow’s TP Update.

-Matt

P.S. Feel free to submit any questions you might have in the comments section.

Two Days Away

2009-06-15T16:02:00.003-05:00

It's less than two days until Ben embarks on his 2009 solo RAAM quest. I'll be posting regular updates, adding a little color commentary (I've twice been a RAAM crew member) and soliciting questions from readers--which I'll in turn relay to this year's crew.

So stay tuned and send positive thoughts and well wishes Ben's way...it's going to be a long, hard journey.

Things get underway at 12:00 noon (PDT) on Wednesday. In the meantime, visit www.raceacrossamerica.org for general race updates, coverage and rider profiles.

-Matt

Go Time

2009-06-13T19:48:00.003-05:00

Well, Ben signing off for now. I'm heading to San Diego tomorrow and the anxiety is beginning to build, but all and all i'm still quite calm. This is going to be a violent effort, but we have the team assembled to make it happen. My crew will be calling my buddy Matt Sullivan back in the cities each day and he will script updates - look for them each day late morning, early afternoon.
Send good karma...I'll be back in no time. ben

In the media

2009-06-04T08:16:00.005-05:00

The St. Paul/Minneapolis media have done a few nice pieces on the adventure...check them out:
T-minus 13 days!
Pioneer press article: http://www.enduranceathlete.com/images/stories/images/pioneerpressarticle.pdf

WCCO TV story: http://wcco.com/sports/ride.across.america.2.1030446.html

This is what i looked like after just 30 hours of riding...imagine day 8!?!?!

Getting Closer...Getting Nervous

2009-05-25T21:00:00.004-05:00

Well, not much to report on the training end, but plenty of goings on in the organization front. Vans, hotels, gear, 40 cases of Ensure....you get the picture. We decided to get away, and headed to my parents for the Memorial Day weekend. It was great to get away and forget RAAM for a few days. It was great weather in northern Wisconsin and the kids got to help Grandpa raise Great-Grandpa's flag on Memorial Day.
Into final preparations now and less training is getting me anxious. Probably not to many more posts here until i get to San Diego (3 weeks) and give the "final report" before send off. Once the race starts, a buddy (who we will be calling daily) will be posting a report here with how the day has gone. Standby and get prepared to send good karma, the more the better.

Racing, Breathing, Rolling 24 ...Bring it on!!!

2009-05-08T11:10:00.011-05:00

Wow, what a week of training and RAAM prep. Where do i begin? I finally got over a little cold i had brewing the previous week and was feeling pretty good. I've started an intensity phase, and so along with the group from Synergy i coach on Tuesday nights, we headed out to the TT Steve Thatcher runs, the Ride-n-Glide TT out near Withrow MN. Great turnout for the race- it filled!! It felt really good to get out and go hard...hurt, but was good baseline going into this intensity block. By the numbers: 24.5mph, 261 wts, 189hr.
Wednesday i had an appt with Dr. Tom Helm a skier i work with who specializes in breathing issues, asthma etc. I've been having a real problem druing my long workouts and really antime i go hard. I went up to his clinic and performed a PFT so we would have some baseline numbers. He and his exercise physiology partner from the U of MN, Ed Corazalla, agreed to come out and retest me 10hrs into my long ride Saturday. Long story short, we met at Now Bikes, they retested me, then gave me a neb. After, my Mid-flow was up over 75%!!!!!!! This is totally telling and i think correcting it will make a huge difference over the long haul.
As for the 24 hour ride, it was good. The first 12 around here was a bit "soft", but I met me crew in Stillwater at 8pm and we rode to Chetek Wi and back through the night. Crappy rain and 40 degrees kind of sucked, but it was good practice to be out, working with the crew, staying up all night and i love hte route (great riding if you are ever looking for a peaceful place to lose yourself on the bike). You would think it would be getting easier to be up all night...nope, still sucks and is hard. I was totally motivated though as i know the other racers are racing the Race Around Slovenia this weekend, 730 miles. Jure won, but 4-5 other RAAM contenders were there and they rocked it. M. Baloh was 4th, and a young guy(26) from Austria (C. Strausser) who finished 2nd last year in the race was there- he is racing RAAM and i predict will win it some day. Going this well this young, look out.
Anyway, time for a short rest and final prep is here....wow! Lanners took a bunch of pics from the ride..I'll put them up when i get them... a bunch of shots of my butt while riding?!?!?!

Final Build Cycle..last long rides

2009-04-26T18:17:00.006-05:00

Well, into the final volume cycle which will have 200, 300 and 24hr rides in it...so this weekend called for 200. I decided to look for some riding partners....started with family, but they decided they wanted to head home at the end of the block.... so, i thought I'd check with some other buds......called my bud Dino who is working with Highroad at LBL this weekend...but evidently the fellas didn't want to ride 200 miles with me, but rather watch Andy Schleck kick some ass...and Basso was too busy to ride....
so i hit the rural roads of western Wisconsin by myself...heaven.

RAAM Gear 101

2009-04-23T20:48:00.005-05:00

What is it??

Train on

2009-04-12T08:21:00.004-05:00

Not a ton of new news on the training front. Lots of strength, volume is actually coming down a bit now and the intensity will begin to ramp. After a short rest this week, i plan 3 final longer rides, with the last being 24 hrs. Man inside 9 weeks now....coming fast. When you are getting ready for your next event and are talking the talk, remember...

"The will to win means nothing without the will to prepare." (Juma Ikangaa, NYC marathon winner)

RAAM Recon

2009-03-24T20:10:00.016-05:00

Well, even the best laid plans sometimes change. The plan was to recon to Durango, the first 825 miles of the race course....but due to a few "circumstances", we didn't make it...but the trip was far from a failure. We (Bob Mackie was driving support) left San Diego Saturday at 10am with a huge tail wind and headed down the RAAM route towards Durango. After a good start we hit an unusually hot desert for this time of year - 91...good practice. The first 12-14 hrs went well. Man, i can't even describe the dunes in the western part of the Mojavi desert...a whole different world! Lets just say you need a 4-wheeler to fit in. After a run in with the border patrol (ask me sometime) and their dogs, we continued moving right along...but starting out tired (my family was with this trip), and Bob having no help, by 2am we were struggling. My nutrition wasn't great and by the climb out of the desert in Congress, i was KO'ed. After a short 10minute break though, i was back on the bike and climbing..slow, but moving. By the second big climb of the TS up to Prescott, i was feeling better and with day break, things were looking up. We arrived in Prescott around noon and the winds were howling....i mean howling...guts as high as 60mph! After almost getting blown off the bike, and not wanting to risk injury, we called it a day one TS short of the goal, Flagstaff, in Cottonwood AZ....live to fight another day. We awoke to 22 degrees and sun Monday morning and hit the road to Flagstaff, 7,000 feet up! The climb through Sedoan (amazing place, for sure my next vacation destination) went well, but on the descent out of Flagstaff we ran into BIG snow squals which turned us back towards Flagstaff. The goal to get to Durango was ended. I rode out the rest of the hours i was shooting for climbing the mountains around Flagstaff, we packed the car and headed back to San diego...i would ride my last day in there in 70 degree weather instead of fighting snow and ice for 200 miles into Durango. I wouldn't get to see the course, but safer training trumped the situation, so home we went. The final 10hr ride today was good, i'm totally cooked and looking forward to a rest. I tried out some new things and really learned a bunch of stuff that will help this summer. Mission accomplished-- 4 days, 800 miles, a 30+ hr ride to start, 90+ degrees, snow, 40,000 ft of up. Back to Minnesota, 40 degrees and rain.

Maple Syrup 101

2009-03-18T21:38:00.003-05:00

Before heading to California, i had to head to my parents...and March in northern Wisconsin means collecting sap to make maple syrup. The boys and i had a great time tromping through the woods filling 5 gallon buckets with sap and loading them into a 50 gallon container pulled behind a 4-wheeler. I have a whole new respect for the effort that goes into such a tasty morning treat. Tomorrow, back to the business of riding my bike across the country. Stay tuned, a full report to follow the epic 800 mile, 2.5 day training ride from San Diego to Durango.

24 Trainer Hrs....

2009-03-14T19:42:00.002-05:00

Well, heading to San Diego on Thursday to ride the first 800 miles of the course...and do the first 36 hrs non-stop to get a feel for how the beginning of the race will go. Training has been good, but just not conducive to long od rides with the weather so cold here in Minnesota. So, yesterday i did a 24 hr ride...inside on the trainer. It was as much of a mental test as physical. Learned a bit, made the muscles sore and am ready for Cali next week.

Uuuuugh!

2009-03-03T18:10:00.004-06:00

Man, the family bug finally caught me.....being sick sucks. With 15 weeks and counting, this isn't in the training program. Such is life.

The Birkie Fever

2009-02-22T07:50:00.005-06:00

Well, survived another Birkie yesterday - always an adventure. A 51 km pilgrimage through the Chequamegon national forest in Northern Wisconsin. It was a huge race this year, over 10,000 racers for the events i heard. It was shaping up to be a fast "gliding" race, perfect for me since i have tons of leg strength now with all my huge rides in recent weeks...but i was foiled. A fresh inch of snow and a bit cooler temps turned the snow into sandpaper - it was work. It really turned into a race of high-end threshold ski fitness, not really my forte at this point in my RAAM training.

The gun went off and it quick became evident it was going to be a tough day. I was struggeling to stay with the front group and we hit the early climbs and belw up - i was quickly in like 75th place. i composed myslef, setteled into a compfy pace and continued on the trek. I was moving up and at about 15km, caught up to my buddie and new daddie Chad Giese. We continued to collect folks and by aobut "OO" it was evident there was no "getting away" from the huge group that had formed behind so i settled in for a little train ride to Hayward. It seemed to be a bit of an inexperienced group as we were like and accordian and the hills were really tough as the pace was always changing....a bike racing 101 class would have helped out a bunch of them and made our race much smoother.

We got to Hayward and believe it or not, i was starting to feel better. We were finally starting to chatch more folks in front of us...and if it were another 10km, all up hill, i'd have been set!! No upper end, but plenty of base cruising speed to keep ball rolling for some time it seemed.

A fun event, a good hard workout, but now it is time to hit the bike full time. The skiing has really helped my core and general strength, but now it is saddle time. In less than a month, i'll be back in Cali for my last training trip and plan to ride 36 hrs straight from San Diego, then a short rest and contine on the rest of the first 800 miles of the race to Durango. I'm hoping to try out a few race support pieces and gear choices (no chamois shorts??). Inside 4 months now...wow!

Photos from www.skinnyski.com

Motivation

2009-02-03T00:32:00.004-06:00

This will motivate me to train hard for the next 5 months....the start line of an epic adventure. Stopped by today on my 12 hr ride. The best part is now i'm staying up all night for a little sleep deprivation. Will be back on the bike at 6am, ride, then catch a plane and go home. Long way to go yet, but i feel like i'm inching closer in my training and preparation. I know what i need to work on and where i need to go....and knowledge is half he battle.
Finally, about 1/2 way through my ride today i wanted to quit- was tired and questioning what i'm doing and it is only February. Then i remembered a quote from a good buddy-

"enjoy yourself" my man...because the only way you are going to get through this is if you really love what your doing...even in the challenging moments. BELIEVE THAT!!!

I think that is applicable here and in every day life. I do love this...so I'll keep on.

Vacation

2009-02-01T22:59:00.008-06:00

So, today i decided i needed a vacation in the desert....

I hit a quick 9 in Borrego Springs,

stopped by the zoo,

picked some oranges,

and finally went for a swim in the Salton Sea,
and as you can see, i didn't get stuck in traffic trying to get anywhere.
The 8+ hr ride in the desert was fun too.

Up, Up, Up and Up

2009-01-31T22:09:00.004-06:00

8.0 hrs, 20,000ft, 80 degrees, 4x Palomar...toast.

(Snow, even in SoCal- top of Palomar)
(Totally toast, on top the last time)

Ramp'n Up

2009-01-30T22:09:00.002-06:00

Well, i find myself back in Cali for RAAM training camp #2 of the winter. After a great talk with Lon the night before i left, the game plan has changed this time around - i need more miles. Some say the big miles aren't necessary, and that intensity is a better use of time...well there is a reason no one is coming close to the crossing times of Lon, Pete and the records set years ago- no one does the miles they did.....so, i'm hitting the big miles while i can. Since Minnesota doesn't have the big climbs either, tomorrow i'm going to hit Palomar 4 times for a 8ish hour ride with 20,000 feet of up. Then big miles 18ish hrs on Sunday and again Monday. i was hoping to ride out to Congress, the first 350 miles and get a 30+hr ride in, but circumstances won't allow, so it will be more of a local 300...but 300 never the less (i'll get to congress at 36hr ride when i get back in March). So, it may be a few days before i'm back to the post as it is time to train like a RAAM racer and that means living on the bike. Off to bed.

Status Quo

2009-01-26T16:05:00.004-06:00

Well, it has been a bit since i've updated here, but alas, the last few weeks have just kind of gone. Training has been very solid and i'm excited about finishing up a little rest period before heading to my second camp in San Diego later this week. The time out there will again be very valuable as i'll get to ride on the race course, hit the desert for some quality riding and do some serious climbing (shooting for a 20,000 foot day on Palomar). Later this week i have a conf. call scheduled with the best RAAM racer ever, Lon Haldeman. He is an awesome dude and is willing to dole out some advice to me the rookie - i can't wait to pick his brain as i think he can sheld some needed light on a few subjects that will be cirtical to my success...sleep, nutrition to name a few.
Due to some time constraints and family illness, i was bummed to not get a chance to race this past weekend at Ripley or Marine...but as luck would have it, there was a 1st running of the Highland Championships in St. Paul. Only two racers were man enough to belly up, my neighbor Chad Giese and myself. The 3 lap, 10KM race started promplty at high noon and was run at a blistering pace throughout. In the end, Saab Factory skier Chad Giese pulled out the win, and i was lucky enought to hold on for second.
Ok, really it was just one hell of a good workout.

Uncle!!

2009-01-14T08:09:00.008-06:00

It has been some time since it happened, but i cried UNCLE yesterday. I got up at 5am for my usual ride to the Anytime to lift, and with a -16 temp and -35 windchill, i decided on the trainer.

Today:
Cold
Hi -6°F

I have to admit, i was feeling a bit soft skipping my usual outside ride, but in hind sight I realize the quality of bundling up like a marshmallow and trying to pedal is not real high. Better off just taking the lumps on the trainer. I did get out for a ski as a lesson i had canceled- and it wasn't that bad. The snow was actually faster than I'd have guessed....wow. It is awesome to have quality skiing for the first time in some years- thanks old man winter. Even though i'd like to have some better outside riding conditions, i'm always amazed how good skiing is for core strength, balance, aerobic fitness...it always seems to translate well to summer success on the bike.
I will admit however, i'm getting excited about my next trip to San Diego. Got my cooling vest yesterday from Cool Vest, and i'm starting to get dialed in on my nutrition and hydration for the race. PICC line?? With just 6 months left, this is getting closer and closer by the second. My wife Megan has agreed to come along and crew now as well which is huge for me. She has crewed RAAM, knows me best and will be an amazing crutch for me over the 10 days of hell. Well, time for an OD ski and lessons in -6 with -30 windchills...is it groundhog day? California Dreaming...

Racing Baby!!

2009-01-04T21:01:00.013-06:00

Well, the plan says come January i need to get quality intensity in at least once a week...no better way than pinning on a number and bellying up to the start line. I was excited to not have to worry about anything except racing this weekend after our near meltdown last weekend at Como where i was helping organize....racing is so much easier. That said, kudos to John and his entire team for pulling off a first class event - thanks!
I'll have to admit, i was a bit bummed looking a the forecast calling for single digit temps with huge winds...fun? But come Sunday a.m. with the bright sunshine and excitement of the first race in some time, all seemed fine. After a quick breakfast with the kids and a BIG cup of joe, I slipped into my new suit for the first time- very nice - thanks Hidden Bay for the custom cut - they shortened the arms and legs for my stubby limbs and for the first time i have a suit that actually fits! It was great to be a local citizen race again, see familiar faces, and catch up with folks you only seem to run into on race day.
Since i had gotten the "family pass" for the morning, I was hoping to get a good long ski in, but by the time i got registered and finished chit-chating, it was already nearly 9. I headed up the hill the Loppet starts on and got to ski the snow-making loop for the first time - wow, very nice! It was also nice to see how the race was going to finish -it was revealed we were going to have to climb one extra hill than i would have thought....i'm glad i knew this! I finally made it over to the start, got a few hard efforts in and was ready as ever(boy it now seemed a bit cold taking off the warm ups!). The snow seemed pretty quick and i was excited to get it rolling.
i usually start off hard, but having ridden 5hrs on the bike the day before, and this being the first real hard effort in sometime, i decided to "follow wheels" for a bit. Bad idea! Man, skiing back in traffic sucks! Being out front can be hard, but you have "clean air" and trying to avoid poles and miss other skiers can take lots of energy...well, too late. We got to Wirth lake an i was finally able to move up to 2nd or 3rd and was finally skiing comfortably. The pace seemed quite easy as the lead skier was heading into a stiff head wind so riding the slipstream up front was perfect- no extra traffic, but all the benefits of a nice draft. i thought a few times about lifting the pace, but the wind and fear of the bigger climbs at Wirth were in the back of my mind - and with surely less race fitness than some of the college kids around me, i decided playing it conservative was the way to go.
We made it to the park in no time and the climbing began. By the top of the first climb it was a group of 7. We all managed to stay together until the 2nd to last climb when a huge surge came from Nathan and Eric. They, along with John quickly gaped the rest of us and i knew there was no way i was going to hang with the pace so quickly backed off, knowing a 2nd climb followed. I settled in, suffered up the last climb and skied to the finish with Zack. Good, good, good stuff.
Goal: fun, high intensity training session. Objective complete!
Thanks Bruce (www.skinnyski.com) for the great photos, race coverage and as usual support.

Testing

2008-12-23T05:24:00.012-06:00

Time for coach to hit the lab. With the days quickly counting down to race start, accurate training intensity is getting more and more critical by the day. Too hard, you are fried. Too easy, not going to make it to Durango! Larry Foss of the Fix Active Studio performed the tests - he uses FaCT protocol that when coupled with good baseline lactate data taken from the warm-up phase (or as a separate stepped test) is hands down the most comprehensive and accurate lactate data one can collect(in my opinon). This also gave me a good benchmark for watts and power to weight ration moving forward. If I'm not consistently increasing my power at threshold (aka showing progress), some component of my training isn't correct and changes will need to be made. Currently I'm putting out 220 watts at my threshold HR(173). Compared to my tests just before i left to race in Alaska when i was totally rested and tapered, I've stayed about the same (was at 228/177 then). I feel pretty good about where i am as i took a break after that race, did tons of easy long base riding, have been doing very little intensity, tons of strength and not getting lots of "quality" bike time (15 below zero and snow)....so as i begin some ski racing now (oh it's going to hurt), and continue my solid riding/lifting schedule, things should continue to slowly progress forward. Then come April and May when i hit the fitness phase hard, i 'm confident my numbers will climb to near 245/180. That will put me at 4 watts per Kilo which is what i'm looking for at race start. The adventure continues.

Skiing is Here!

2008-12-20T12:29:00.003-06:00

Man, i love skiing. I headed out for my first ski at the premier training venue in St Paul (in my opinion), Battle Creek, and had a sweet training session. Snow was falling and the trails are getting very nice. Doing OD skis there are superb, 3hrs goes by in a flash (especially when you can tune out to Weezer). I really think the leg and core strength i will gain from a good amount of ski training this winter (not to mention aerobic building) will help when i have to push out 300 mile days in June. A few high school teams were out and in was nice to see the trails full. Get out and ski!!

Round'n Round

2008-12-17T07:48:00.011-06:00

Well, i'm trying to get into the groove of my winter training back in the thick of Minnesota winter. Below zero temps coupled with little snow has made it challenging. Last night we finally got another dump of snow so skiing is back in the fray. My lifting has been going ok, but it really needs to get consistent for the next 8 weeks - i think it can be a huge help. i got the winter ride (old Specialized StumpJumper with drop bars and Veloce) finally up and running - it makes riding in crappy, snowy conditions a breeze and is good for my strength building (riding around on a near 30lb bike).

With that said, i thought it time to try something new.....speed skating! Bruce Adlesman (www.skinnyski.com) and i headed up to the oval in Roseville and took the Wednesday night class. It was awesome! You can really fly on those things. I see a new form of racing in my future, once i get it down. It is super technical - like anything, the pros on TV make it look so effortless, but once out there and you begin to learn, you quickly realize how difficult it is. Our instructor Steve was patient and really helped us so we didn't pick up any bad habits from the start. If you are looking for something new, it was a gas. Super hard on the legs and lower back.

Day 5 - Mission Complete

2008-12-09T13:43:00.006-06:00

While my stay here in San Diego has been awesome, time has come to return to "normal life"...yea, whatever that is??? I had 4 hours this a.m. before i had to catch my plane, so i planned on some neuromuscular stuff and then a short ride to round out the time. My legs actually felt much better today, maybe they are getting used to this routine. I headed down to Fiesta Island (little island just off of San Diego by Sea World with lots of beach and a huge dog park amongst other things) as it is flat and perfect for 1-leg pedal drill. I completed an hour of 1 leg pedaling and my hip flexors were ready to kill me- dun! I never did catch-up to Arnie Baker's ride, hopefully next time, but they do have a TT down here every month - sounds pretty cool, maybe next time too. Well, it has been fun, very educational and exhausting, just what i needed. Using this experience, I've already got my training planned out for my next trip out here in late January...anyone for a little training trip? 70 and sunny has been nice, but i'm excited about getting back to some nice white stuff and long skis at Battle Creek. (ski pic - skinnyski.com)

Day 4 - Roll'n Up the Coast

2008-12-08T20:20:00.009-06:00

I'll have to admit, i'm tired. I woke up this a.m a bit sore and the legs have a certain ache in them. As i climbed the stairs to the kitchen i realized my legs are worn out....but that is what i need to do. On top of that...lets ride more. Today i decided i wanted to get some easier volume in, so i headed up the 101 to Oceanside. Wasn't exactly sure where i was going, but it ended up working perfectly. As i went through Del Mar, there were some "Radical Dudes" ripping it up out on the surf - looked fun...evidently even Lance surfs? Guess I'll have to try it some day. Anyway, only bummer today is that when i got home and checked the map, i realized i stopped about .5 mile from the actual race start - oh well, I"ll see that in a few months. I guess i could have kept riding up into camp Pendleton as well, but again, i had no idea i was so close. The ride up was sweet - huge tail winds(thus a bit slower home!), a nice little tour of UCSD and just for Sumo, i stopped by Torrey Pines on the way by...what da-ya-know...no tee times available for me??? The ride was good. Ended up with 8hrs on the bike, slow, but steady. This little "mini camp" was a good wake up call and helped me realize just how long and hard this "race" is going to be. I was starting to wonder why i was doing it, and then Larry helped me remember..."if it was easy, everyone would do it...yea it's hard, that's exactly why you are doing it" Enough said.
Tomorrow a.m. before i catch my plane, I'm heading down to the Fiesta Island ride with Dr. Arnie Baker - he has coached Floyd L. and has worked with many RAAM racers...I'm hoping i can pick his brain while we are out riding as i don't think i can afford his $250/hr consult fee. Time for a bowl of Edys and bed.

Day 3- Venga! Venga! Venga!

2008-12-07T18:56:00.007-06:00

Today was all about going up, up and up some more. I kind of felt like the tour guys going over multiple passes in a day - only difference they do it twice as fast and with crazy fans on the side of the road yelling and screaming. Only screaming i heard today was the howls of motorcycles screaming by as they flew, i mean flew up the mountain. You can hear them coming from a mile back as they throttle out of the corners. It was cool to watch the good ones fly by setting themselves up for corners at 60-70mph - 21 switchbacks worth! On the way down my last time i saw this guy shooting photos - a Bruce Adlesman, Skinnyski version of Mt Palomar, motorcycling - Rick Clemson. Super nice guy, think i'll have to buy a shot as a reminder of December RAAM Camp.

Anyway, since it was my last day with a car, i wanted to go north one last time and climb as much as i could. I had 6 hours, so i figured i could climb Palomar 3 times - worked out to be perfect. I started in Rincon where the climb begins. It climbs 5 miles to South Grade Rd, where the real climbing begins for the last 7 miles. It took me 1.5hrs up, .5 down. I felt pretty good, and was happy that each one was 5-6 minutes faster than the previous, so i was staying consistent. Went with mainly liquid nutrition today as i wanted to test it out when going harder - as that is when i seem to get into stomach trouble...and it seemed to go ok. More needs to be done with this before the race. It is a huge issue and has to be totally dialed in. Also made me realize, i need a 29 for climging. The 25 is great, but when my legs get totally blown, a 29 will be essential so i can continue to spin and give my legs a break every once and a while. Day 3 done, tomorrow a long ride finally.

Day 2....the Desert!

2008-12-06T17:22:00.010-06:00

So, into the desert i went. I'll have to admit i was a bit worried about riding there, not really knowing what to expect....bad roads? no shoulders? cars going mach 1? Hot? Flat? NOPE. This was by far the best ride i've ever had in San Diego. I left from Lake Henshaw TimeStation, rode up the gentle climb to Ranchita and then barreled down the "Glass Elevator" 4000 ft to Borrego Springs below (more about Montezuma Grade on the way back). The traffic was quite light except for some trucks with dirt bikes heading out into the desert to rip it up and there was a good shoulder, or even bike lane for most of the ride - who knew how nice riding in the desert was!! I filled my bottles in Borrego Springs, then headed further into the desert another 25 miles, just past Ocotillo Wells. Who knew there were elephants in the desert here?? Anyway, since i wasn't sure about additional water past this, and daylight issues wouldn't allow me to ride all the way to Brawley, i planned to turn around here - making it about a 100 miles, but again with around 8,000 ft of climinb for the day...as once back to Borrego Springs, i had to climb back up Montezuma Grade (the longest graded road in San Diego Cty), 6% for 11 miles, just shy of 4000 ft. I filled up again in Borrego Springs ( really quite a nice little place) and headed up - for nearly an hour and twenty minutes! Finally i made it up - seemed hot climbing (75ish) and it is December....makes me worried about next summer - i have a long way to go to get ready for this thing. The final 20 miles home were and easy spin back down to Lake Henshaw and a ride back to San Diego. Looking forward to dinner tonight with my buddy Dana who i did 2-man RAAM with in 2002 as he just happens to be in town visiting relatives. So, the bottom line, don't be scared to ride in the desert...an oh, it ain't flat!

RAAM Recon - Day 1

2008-12-05T18:35:00.011-06:00

Well, after a terrible day of travel yesterday (I'll only fly direct from now on), i finally got on the bike today in San Diego. Was a bit tired and slow, but it felt great to ride in shorts, arm warmers and a vest. I decided to ride the first 50 miles of the race course today from I15 to Lake Henshaw - tougher than i thought. After some rolling up for the first 20 miles, the climb to the base of Palomar was hard....then it was a gradual up from there into a pretty stiff headwind. I was really wondering why i was going so slow, but upon turning around i quickly realized how tough the climb out was.

On the way back i decide to climb the final portion of the Palomar climb that the T.O.C. will be using. The total climb is 12 miles, 4,100ft, 21 switchbacks, 6-8% grade and relentless. I was already at 2500 at that point, so i only had the final 7 miles, 25oo feet left. I was dehydrated and going slow - took me 45 minutes to get up (note: on the way back i ran into a guy who was telling me Floyd does it in 27 minutes when fit!). I had climbed this before with Dino and didn't remember it being so hard. After a quick Sobe energy and a microwave hotpocket, i was ready to get back to the car. It only took me 14 minutes to go back down what took me 45 to climb! The final 4 miles down off the mountain only took 6 minutes, and that was with my progress slowed by a semi...fun that can't be had in Minnesota!!
Good ride today with over 10,000 feet of climbing, in a 6hr effort. I was hoping for a little more volume, but the climbing was tough on me. Tomorrow, into the desert!

Rolling Along

2008-11-30T21:16:00.004-06:00

Training is finally starting to roll after a short setback due to a bout with a little cold. Back in the gym lifting, hitting the trainer for 1-leg pedaling drills etc (which are getting tough as i put a 2lb weight on my helmet to help strengthen the neck muscles to try and avoid Shermmer's Neck), the CX bike for great long winter rides under "high-tension" circumstances (snow) and some hill climbs to keep in touch with intensity. Todays ride with Sumo, Brownie and the Mexican Mafia was awesome- the river bottoms are always great with fresh snow.
I'm pretty fried after a 20hr week, so i'm looking forward to a few easy days, a massge from Larry (The Fix) and then heading to San Diego for some quality volume and mountain training - on the RAAM course....oh, and 70 degrees, 4 layers of clothing not necessary!

The Plan

2008-11-19T10:56:00.003-06:00

Well, with this huge of a race, all the prep and training, a sound plan is in order. I'm in the final stages of assembling an amazing crew, vehicles are coming together and other support is coming in. I've decided to drive a van round trip from St. Paul so i don't have to ship all my bikes, racks, light bars etc. As luck would have it, my parents agreed to drive the van out, help at the start and then fly back...watch my 2 year old twins for a week, only to fly out to the finish and repeat van driving duty...totally amazing!
Lots to figure out, but I'm heading to San Diego in a few days and hope to ride the first few hundred miles of the race - for confidence more than anything. Time Station I to Lake Henshaw has over 6,000 feet of climbing in just over 50 miles!
Perhaps the greatest puzzle to figure out is the training plan - should be easy right, after all it is what i do for a living?? Not so much. I've got a base plan done that started last summer after Fireweed, but have since made 4 or 5 modifications as things change. Luckily i have a good friend and amazing athlete for a neighbor, Chad Giese so having someone to bounce ideas off is easy. So, here it is in its simple overview form.
The Plan

Fireweed 400 - Success

2008-11-13T11:47:00.006-06:00

The Fireweed 400 this past summer is what gets me to this place - winning it qualified me for RAAM this year and got me inspired....Check out the recap here.

Well, 214 days left, so far away, but yet not really when i think about all that needs to be completed - maybe thats the draw!

Other Shoe Drops!

2008-11-07T06:50:00.010-06:00

The a.m. ride today was a good reminder that fall in Minnesota doesn't mean 65 and sunny....I love it! Guess this means it's time to get the woollies out and be prepared to ride in the cold.

On a RAAM crew note, had a huge day yesterday...Both Owen Hanley and Peter Abraham agreed to crew for me. They are both elite ski racers and great people. I coached them both at Carleton. Owen crewed for me at the Fireweed 400 this summer in Alaska and Peter is a good friend of Owens - this is a huge piece for me- I'm stoked!

Gathering Info

2008-11-05T07:30:00.003-06:00

I had the opportunity to chat with 2003 RAAM champion Allen Larsen last night - oh what a wealth of knowledge he possesses. From rookie to champion to covering the race for the media, he has seen lots, done lots, knows lots! I could still be asking him questions. Unfortunately, he had to cut his racing career short due to Shermers neck, but he is hoping to find a solution and get back on the bike. The take home message, efficiency, efficiency, efficiency! Don't diddle around, keep moving. He also reminded me to be prepared that in RAAM even the best laid plans will go by the wayside- so expect it. I'm still working on nutrition solutions, sleep and ride schedules/amounts, solutions to the heat...oh the list is long!

Well, it is a start. I hope to keep running ideas by him as I progress down this road. The more info i can gather the better off i will be in my mind. Knowledge is power!

"If your bike isn't moving, your loosing time as someones else's bike is. The east coast never gets closer when you are stopped." -larsen

It Begins

2008-10-31T11:55:00.002-05:00

Well, it's official, RAAM 2009 is going to happen for me. It is going to be a crazy ride for not only me, but my family, friends, business...really anyone in my life I guess. I hope to use this as my training log and general recap of all the preparations that go into this crazy endeavor. Well, kids are down for a nap, mom has the day off and it is 60 degrees here in St. Paul on October 31st...must mean it is time to be on the bike. Something to leave you with I live by:

"The will to win means nothing without the will to prepare." -Juma Ikangaa (NYC Marathon champion)