2008 Milestone

Greetings Readers!

So today marks a milestone for me, it’s 7/18 and I’ve already ridden more miles in 2008 than I did in the entire calendar year of 2007. I’m like a ruffed grouse right now, chest all puffed out like I’m all that. You may look at my mileage and think “Hell, thats nuthin’” But let me tell ya, for my complicated life I’ve really put in the effort this year, pushing 2500 miles for mid July is a lot of miles for me. I managed a mere 2428 in all of last year. Thanks to my better half, she knows how important the bike and cross are to me and has given me the rope to ride. Thank you Mom.

It’s important to have goals, and even more important to make them. I’m feeling pretty good right now knowing I’ll make a 4000 mile year a reality. How I do in cross is anybody’s guess? I came into last year with little to zero fitness and had a decent year. This year, I’m moving up in class and I expect the competition to be better. I’ll keep pluggin’ away right up till that 1st race in Sept.  I can tell you this: that single speed is making me stronger. I’ve even noticed that the initial hills I was forced out of the saddle on are now conquered with my butt velcrowed to the saddle, spinning all the way. I’ve felt muscles in my hammys and glutes that I’ve not known in years…..

I viewed this video on youtube off of K’mans Blog: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRZOa_E9Qs8

Oh man, did it get my juices going, I’m flat out geeked out for cross. The crusades are all that, and there is NO WHERE I would rather be than at a cross race. Now, with my 1st race looming just 8 weeks from Sunday I’m starting to feel the pressure of getting the bikes ready, tubbies reglued, and my mind and body ready to party. For now I’ll revel in a little accomplishment knowing that I’ve blown the doors off last year. But that won’t last, in a few days I’ll be stessin’ about cross and fussing over all the little details that I hope will give me a great season.

For Tim, my pal and fellow cyclist who’s having surgery on Wednesday and will suffer through 2 long months off the bike and miss cross season: Timmy, keep the faith bro and I’ll be killin’ myself extra in the Crusades just for you pal.

Miles ridden today 20

Miles ridden 2008, 2444.

Cheers!