I did it! I completed my first group ride without Pete. This was a women's ride organized by the local bike store, Bike World. There was a total of eleven of us, including the leader. I was a little nervous about falling again, keeping up with the group, holding up the group, how far I could ride, handling the hills, and meeting all these women who are thinner and more fit than I am. As I tried to talk myself out of the ride on the drive over, I worked on my self-talk and cheered myself on instead.
I was running a little later than I would have liked. It'd been a rushed afternoon, so I was still in that mode and that didn't help. Not to mention, this was the first time I had to prep the bike myself, change at the ride, and walk across a parking lot in bike shoes. I managed though. It was quite comical getting the pump out of the back of the truck and I broke a sweat just getting things ready, but once I was ready, I was confident that I was good to go!
When I walked in the shop, I bumped in to Vicki. I met her last Saturday on the ride where I wimped out and went to buy shoes. She stuck around for lunch, so I've talked to her a little bit. She was all smiles and said, "I'm glad you're joining us!" That helped to put me at ease a bit. Ran in to Erica, but she was shopping, not riding. And for proof that it was a woman's ride, I got a compliment on how matching my outfit was! Mark that down as the first compliment of me in my bike gear! Trust me, it's not the prettiest sight, but it's functional, so you do what you have to do.
We headed out and I was the fourth one out of the parking lot. That didn't last long once everyone got moving. The first road we head down has a stop sign every block. Yikes! My foot got tired clipping in and out of the pedals. It was good practice, but once my foot got tired, it was more of a challenge to clip in. Of course, that meant that I got better at pulling the pedals around a couple times with my right leg. It was good practice though.
On the first long stretch, the group pulled away. I was pedaling and had a good cadence (for me) going, but couldn't keep up. I switched my bike display and saw that I was moving at 12.5 mph. That's a good clip for me. Vicki started to hang back a bit as she noticed in her mirror that I was falling back. I figured as long as I kept moving and the group waited at key intersections, I'd be fine. I was actually glad that I wasn't holding someone up!
At the next intersection, it was a decision point. Those who could ride 15 mph went straight and were to meet up at some random point. Those who needed a slower pace, or shorter distance, turn right. Without hesitation, I announced that the right turn was my route and made my way. I was alone in that decision, and I was okay with that. The ride leader, J.D., stuck with me and it was a good opportunity for a little coaching, encouragement and getting to know one another.
When the group finally caught up with me, I was on some rolling hills. They were all good about announcing they were passing and I just kept on pedaling. I announced my moves and signaled road hazards. One of the girls even cheered me on each time she passed me all day. It really made me smile and kept me motivated.
I was enjoying the challenge of the rolling hills. I'd get some speed from the downhill and enjoy the quick rest, then start pedaling and move myself up the next hill. Then we turned a corner and there was a bigger hill in front of us. hmm.... this was about the size of the hill I walked on Saturday! I check my gears, and I'm ready to get myself up the hill by pedaling. Just over half way up I decide I need to switch rings (gear one on the left handlebar.) Whoops!!! I dropped my chain. Oh! Feet!!! So I quickly unclip and hop off the bike. Shamefully, I think I forgot to announce I was stopping, but the gal behind me saw what happened. She even stopped and said "do you know how to fix it?" I sheepishly replied, "Maybe... I think so." Instead of letting me struggle, she hops off her bike and teaches me, getting her hand greasy in the process. Wow! Thank you! I offered my handkerchief to clean the grease off her hand. Sacrificing one of Pete's handkerchiefs is a small price to pay!
With the chain fixed, I still had to get up the rest of the hill. I had two people tell me that you have to circle downhill to get some momentum and then turn and go back up hill. Are you kidding me?!?!? That's more hill to climb! I clipped in and started pedaling. Then I hear "she's doing it!" And sure enough, I pedal right on up to the top of the hill without doubling back and without walking it. Whoo-hoo!!!
It's another decision point. Do the loop again for another 3.5 miles, or head back to the bike shop. Ha! I was in this for ten miles today. By doing the loop again, I have to go up that hill again. I am tired. I'm drinking most of my water. I decide to stick with what I know I can do and that means take the direct route back. Vicki says she'll go with me, so the rest of the group doubles around and Vicki and I start pedaling for the shop.
I'm keeping up with her to some degree. Any sort of an incline, or a car behind us, and she pulls away in front of me. Then we're on the long straight away again, and I'm tired. My legs are tired, and I need to slow down my cadence a bit, so I shift. Then I remember what Pete said about shifting from 2-3 to 1-6 (or something like that) so I decide to give it a shot. Whip! Chain dropped, again. I try to fix it by shifting the right hand and nothing happens. It's time to unclip before I'm going so slow that I fall over. So I get off the bike and fix the chain. Climb back on and take off again just as Vicki catches up to me on her doubling back.
Traffic was lighter this time going through all of the stop signs and that made it a bit easier. I actually think a smaller group of bikers helped too. We were almost back and Vicki figured she should tell me the plan to get back to the shop, so we stop briefly. I get the coaching for the driveways and sidewalk we take to go the wrong way on the access road. I'm relieved because I had suddenly started thinking we had to cross the highway and take the access road and then turn around all the way. The sidewalk is a much better solution.
We pull into the Bike World parking lot and I shout "I did it! I did it!" I can feel the huge grin on my face. I hop off the bike and finish my water. I load my gear into the truck, straighten the mess from the pre-ride chaos, and load the bike. Then I realize this is the first time I haven't had Pete there to confirm the bike was loaded on the rack tightly enough. I drive the truck to the end of the parking lot where the Bike World guys are playing basketball. One of them checks the bike and sure enough, it's on tight enough so I'm good to go. I live the truck running to cool off with the air conditioner, but I won't leave until the group is back. The rest of the group arrives in one bunch. Clearly, they can all ride at a faster speed than I can, but that's okay. Everyone was glad to see me there.
I learned a lot of little things on this ride. It may have been as simple as proving to myself that I could do a lot of it. I enjoy the partnership and teamwork Pete and I have in our preparations, riding, and loading. It was quite the feeling of accomplishment though to prove to myself that I could do it. Getting through a ride with the shoes, by myself, not falling, and pedaling up the hills was a great feeling. I can't wait to go back. I'll have to wait two weeks, but I let J.D. know that I was going out of town (they didn't manage to scare me off) and I'll be back in a couple weeks.
Goals
Today's Miles: 10
Total Miles Achieved: 119.9
Financial Investment: $840.16
Total Weight Loss: 0
Friday, May 30, 2008
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
I Registered for the Ride!
Time to further my commitment to do this ride in October! So, I registered for the Bike to the Beach event. Check out my participation center at http://main.nationalmssociety.org/goto/ali-treks
I'll try to update it later with more appropriate photos and what-not. For now, it's a start. My fundraising goal has been set at $5,000. I think I can do it. I'm not confident that I can, but I know with your support, I can get there. And if I hit that goal early, I'll raise the goal.
Remember, I'm not doing this just for all of the fun I'm having. There is a cause and there are people in my life who are suffering from MS and will benefit from advancements in research and finding a cure to this horrible disease.
I appreciate everyone's support and encouraging words. Join me in my fight to find a cure for MS!
Goals
Today's Miles: 0
Total Miles Achieved: 109.9
Financial Investment: $840.16 (ride registration fee)
Total Weight Loss: 0
I'll try to update it later with more appropriate photos and what-not. For now, it's a start. My fundraising goal has been set at $5,000. I think I can do it. I'm not confident that I can, but I know with your support, I can get there. And if I hit that goal early, I'll raise the goal.
Remember, I'm not doing this just for all of the fun I'm having. There is a cause and there are people in my life who are suffering from MS and will benefit from advancements in research and finding a cure to this horrible disease.
I appreciate everyone's support and encouraging words. Join me in my fight to find a cure for MS!
Goals
Today's Miles: 0
Total Miles Achieved: 109.9
Financial Investment: $840.16 (ride registration fee)
Total Weight Loss: 0
Sunday, May 25, 2008
Got Shoes! Fall Achieved.
Today was the get back out there and try again ride along with the learning how to ride with clip-in shoes. We picked up Sierra and were stood up by the rest of the group, so we headed to Cibolo. Sierra has been on enough rides with us to pick up on our pre-ride routine. We are suited up and ready to go before you know it.
We head for our normal route and I'm getting the clips to work for me. Pete watches me a couple times and then rides up to offer some pointers. Especially helpful as the next intersection is a major highway we have to cross. We continue on into the headwind with Pete leading the way. The three of us pulled a line fairly well for three miles at which point it was our usual water stop.
At this point, Sierra had enough. The heat and the humidity were getting to her, so we sent her back with truck keys. I surprised myself by drinking half of my bottle of Gatorade and then we continued on our way. Pete and I rode side-by-side as we were now handling a cross-wind. The more wind he can block, the easier my ride becomes. I still have not gotten to the point of gabbing on the road though.
Another couple miles down the road and I was wiped. I could feel the difference in my workout by having the clip-in shoes. My head was begin to throb a bit again and I could feel the sun burning down on us. Pete understood and turned back with me. I was pleased to hear that we had held a pace of about 12.5 mph. This was making today a much better ride, but I still was not making any good distance.
On the return trip, my thighs were burning. I told myself I had to make it back to the water stop. To move my focus from my thighs, I started asking myself how the shoes were working. It was at this point that I discovered I had been curling my toes trying to grip the pedals. I relaxed my toes and now the balls of my feet went numb. The water stop intersection was in view, so I just kept on pedaling.
I announced my intentions to stop at the intersection to Pete. He fell back, let me turn and pull over. As I did, I unclipped my right foot. Up until now, I had been unclipping my left foot first. When I put my right foot down, my right calf started to cramp and I leaned to the left. Sadly, I had not unclipped my left foot, so over I went onto the pavement. There I lay bike still attached to my left foot and laying on top of me with my right leg cramping. I wasn't sure what hurt more, my right leg, or my left elbow that took the brunt of the fall. I knew I had road rash immediately. Pete said, "Congratulations! You've had your fall." and then helped me up. We paused while I pulled myself together, had some water, and then we were off again.
I managed to pedal myself back in and called it a good ride. No, it wasn't the distance I'd been hoping for, but it was definitely a new and improved workout. I've learned the value of the shoes and clip-in pedals. I've learned how to clip and unclip, plus experienced "the fall". I've learned how the weather can affect your ride. I've learned that sometimes you have a bad ride and just need to call it a day. I've learned to watch what I eat and drink the day before a ride. I've learned that cycling is a lifestyle change, not just an activity. I've learned the value of a great coach and partner and how that relationship can get you through your biggest defeats and turn them into a learning lesson.
This weekend was all about lessons. I learned a number of them this weekend. I think I know what I have to do now to be able to pedal through the ride in October. It's not going to be easy, but no one told me it would. I know if I commit to it and keep on working toward it that I can do it!
Goals
Today's Miles: 10.6
Total Miles Achieved: 109.9
Financial Investment: $815.16
Total Weight Loss: 0
We head for our normal route and I'm getting the clips to work for me. Pete watches me a couple times and then rides up to offer some pointers. Especially helpful as the next intersection is a major highway we have to cross. We continue on into the headwind with Pete leading the way. The three of us pulled a line fairly well for three miles at which point it was our usual water stop.
At this point, Sierra had enough. The heat and the humidity were getting to her, so we sent her back with truck keys. I surprised myself by drinking half of my bottle of Gatorade and then we continued on our way. Pete and I rode side-by-side as we were now handling a cross-wind. The more wind he can block, the easier my ride becomes. I still have not gotten to the point of gabbing on the road though.
Another couple miles down the road and I was wiped. I could feel the difference in my workout by having the clip-in shoes. My head was begin to throb a bit again and I could feel the sun burning down on us. Pete understood and turned back with me. I was pleased to hear that we had held a pace of about 12.5 mph. This was making today a much better ride, but I still was not making any good distance.
On the return trip, my thighs were burning. I told myself I had to make it back to the water stop. To move my focus from my thighs, I started asking myself how the shoes were working. It was at this point that I discovered I had been curling my toes trying to grip the pedals. I relaxed my toes and now the balls of my feet went numb. The water stop intersection was in view, so I just kept on pedaling.
I announced my intentions to stop at the intersection to Pete. He fell back, let me turn and pull over. As I did, I unclipped my right foot. Up until now, I had been unclipping my left foot first. When I put my right foot down, my right calf started to cramp and I leaned to the left. Sadly, I had not unclipped my left foot, so over I went onto the pavement. There I lay bike still attached to my left foot and laying on top of me with my right leg cramping. I wasn't sure what hurt more, my right leg, or my left elbow that took the brunt of the fall. I knew I had road rash immediately. Pete said, "Congratulations! You've had your fall." and then helped me up. We paused while I pulled myself together, had some water, and then we were off again.
I managed to pedal myself back in and called it a good ride. No, it wasn't the distance I'd been hoping for, but it was definitely a new and improved workout. I've learned the value of the shoes and clip-in pedals. I've learned how to clip and unclip, plus experienced "the fall". I've learned how the weather can affect your ride. I've learned that sometimes you have a bad ride and just need to call it a day. I've learned to watch what I eat and drink the day before a ride. I've learned that cycling is a lifestyle change, not just an activity. I've learned the value of a great coach and partner and how that relationship can get you through your biggest defeats and turn them into a learning lesson.
This weekend was all about lessons. I learned a number of them this weekend. I think I know what I have to do now to be able to pedal through the ride in October. It's not going to be easy, but no one told me it would. I know if I commit to it and keep on working toward it that I can do it!
Goals
Today's Miles: 10.6
Total Miles Achieved: 109.9
Financial Investment: $815.16
Total Weight Loss: 0
Saturday, May 24, 2008
It's Not All Peaches and Cream
Today was my first official Wheelmen ride. It was a "stay together" 30-mile ride. It means no rider gets left behind and the whole group ends up moving as slow as the slowest rider. My first fear in joining a group ride like this is that I would be the slowest rider holding everyone up. Pete and I talked through the route last night. We decided on a strategy for deciding if I could make the full 30 miles, or needed to cut it short. We discussed the lack of consistency in my training and lack of a distance rides recently.
I kept all of that in mind as we drifted off to sleep. Unfortunately, I struggled a bit to fall asleep last night. Which means when the alarm went off, I wasn't jumping out of bed ready for the ride. I got up though and we started to get ready for the ride. I know I'm running slow if I'm still fussing with sunscreen and Pete is making the water bottles. We managed to pull out of the driveway a mere two minutes late. I'll take it!
We arrived at the rendez vous point and signed in for the ride. Pete knows the route, so we didn't look at the maps. We got our gear in order, listened to the pre-ride briefing and then watched the faster groups start out. Cliff asked Pete to sweep, so that meant he'd be at the back of the line. No problem! Someone behind me, if I'm the slowest who I won't be too worried about being too slow for.
We start out and I'm already beginning to think it's hot out. For the record -- it was! At 8 a.m. it was at least 78 already and 84% humidity. "Buck up, Alison! You can't change the weather. Summer is coming. You have to get used to riding in the heat." So, we head out. Cliff, the ride leader, turns left. "Left?!?!? This isn't the route I know, or we discussed, or planned our strategy for." Then I hear Pete say, "Cliff turned left. Hmm... he must be doing the published 30-mile route."
"Ya think? Oh crap! What does that mean I'm in store for? Knock it off! You know what you're doing. Pete will coach you through what you need and tell you when you need to make distance decisions."
My self-pep talk is interrupted by the focus on pot holes and gravel. The road we head out on is under some construction, so it's slow going as we deal with the uneven road and gravel. I learn how to maneuver with someone I don't know in front of me who doesn't point out holes. For what it's worth, there were too many holes to point out (and I wasn't pointing any out to Pete either.)
I'm suddenly ready for some water. Must have gone three miles. Nope! I look down and we've done a mere mile and half and I'm already dripping sweat down my face. I notice two or three people in front of me, and obviously more experienced, grab their water bottles on the fly. I see a stop sign, so I'll get to that point. We stop and Cliff does a pace check. We had been doing about 12 miles an hour. I was doing okay. Occasionally falling a little off the back, but I was unsure of who I was following, so I was giving him some room. The group decides we can pick it up to 13 mph. I don't say anything, but I know I haven't been able to hold that pace before, but I don't want to be the only wimp in the group and maybe the group will keep me motivated to move. So we head off again.
About now, Erica and another rider catch up with us and are gabbing away. Erica used to be Pete's neighbor and we haven't seen her in a couple months, so there's some catching up to be done. Meanwhile, we go up a little incline, I shift once or twice, and I fall off the group a bit. No one says anything and we keep on trucking. I just keep pedaling, but the group gets further and further ahead. "Okay, you'll catch up at that intersection ahead. Then you have to work to stay on the group."
As luck would have it, the group continued through the intersection. Thankfully, Pete knows the route. So, we head through the intersection, make the right and the immediate left. "Oh no! Look at that hill! The group is almost at the top. It'll take me awhile to catch them now." Meanwhile, Erica and the other gal are gabbing away. I'm already gasping for breath! "How are they talking like this when we have to use our energy to get up this hill?!??!" I know they'll pass me going up the hill, but I just have to keep going, keep pedaling, keep shifting and I can do it.
Suddenly. . . I can't do it! I have to stop. I can't breathe. This is where I should mention I've been fighting off a cold, or allergies, or a sinus infection all week. I felt better on Thursday, but Friday night was all stuffed up again, and this morning I am too. I stop without saying a word. I couldn't talk! But, I put myself as far to the side in the grass as I could. Pete quickly tells Erica to catch up with Cliff and not worry about us. He stops in middle of the hill with me. Gasping for breath, I drink some water, then tell him to go ahead and meet me at the top of the hill. I have to walk it. So, I start hoofing it up the hill. Then my right calf starts to try to cramp. I keep stretching it out and won't let it, but finally jump back on the bike for the last little bit so I change the movement in my leg. Now I'm worried! It's too early to be cramping. I hook up with Pete and notice I have another hill and not only is the group out of sight, but so is Erica already!
"Uncle! I can't do another hill like that already. And I have no idea how many more of these are ahead." Pete talks me through our options as I'm staring wide-eyed at the hill. I admit to the hint of a cramp and we decide it's smarter to head closer to the vehicle and ride on the flatter, more known route for me today. My head is pulsing with every heart beat. I'm hot and down-right miserable. But now I feel like a wimp. I had no idea how quickly the humidity would get to me and how it would effect me. I had been a bit cocky about how much I could go out and do after we haven't been out for a ride like this in a month. But, I was giving in at less than six miles!
We go back down the hill. What a nice break. But, I'm moving so fast, I feel shaking in my bike that I'm not used to. My shoulder was already a little sore and now I'm feeling it on the bike. We turn to go down the highway and oh look -- a hill. "Slow and steady and you can do it!" I tell myself. Sure enough, I make it up this little one. I decided to make the most of the ride and started playing with the gears on some of the little ups and downs. I was trying to play with it enough so I could finally remember which number corresponds to the big ring and the little ring and regardless of if it's the big, or little, ring which number on the handle bars is best for getting me up those hills!
We get near the parking lot and Pete mentions it's a right turn. "No kidding! Thank you! We're not going to try to go further." At this point, I know I could pedal further if I needed to, but I'm broken and don't really want to. This is a first for me. Meanwhile, both of my feet feel a bit sore, my shoulders are tight, I've been leaning on my hands, so my palms are sore and my head is pounding and throbbing still. We get to the truck and I jump off my bike. I'm in my sneakers and my feet hurt just to walk in the parking lot. Good sign that I've had enough. We did a measly nine miles today. Oh well... this was a humbling and learning experience. I need to get consistent and serious about this biking. I can't just jump on the bike and ride 30 miles (not to mention the 95 I'll have to do in October.)
Pete offers air conditioning and I take it. I jump in the truck while he loads the bikes. I grab the Gatorade and finish it. I finish the water. My eyes are stinging and feel all puffy. I look in the mirror and my face is bright red! Even I'm shocked at how red my face is. I mention that I now truly see the value in shoes for the help the shoes and clips give to getting you up a hill! Pete offers a trip to Bike World. Perfect! So we head out. I decide to wet my handkerchief and put it on my eyes to try to ease the stinging. It works, but I'm still red and hot!
While stopped at a light Pete says "I still love you," leans in for a kiss and grabs my hand. Simple words that meant so much! I felt like a total wimp and was worried that he wasn't getting the mileage, speed, or training that he needs, and like I'd let him down. And here he is, still proud of me and doesn't put me down, and encourages me to keep on trying. This little moment went a long way!
So, we get to Bike World right as they open. Tom greets us with a smile and after a quick hello, we're shopping for shoes. He understands what I need and listens to me when I tell him how each shoe fits. We quickly discovered that I am a size 40 (not 39 like the guy in Dallas wanted to keep me in) and that the Sidi brand doesn't fit me right. I settle on a pair of Shimanos, which luck would have it, are white with blue accents. Pete goes to get my bike. Tom goes to put the cleats on my shoes. Together they get my bike on the trainer and new pedals on my bike, while I shop the clothing.
They didn't have a lot of shorts in stock. I only have the capri pants, and if they had shorts, I wanted to try them. But, they do have a blue jersey in both a 3X and a 4X. I decide to try those on. The 4X is comfortable, breathable, and roomy enough. The 3X is too and I think will last me longer as I drop some inches. Plus, this one is a much lighter weight fabric than what I had on for the heat and humidity today.
I head over to the bike and put on my new shoes with cleats. Then I climb up on the stand and get on the bike. I clip in fairly easily and immediately notice a difference in how the bike fits. Wow! It pedals differently too. I like it already. I clip in and out a few times and decide I'm good. Pete mentions the fit and I say the seat feels different now. Tom adjusts the seat a couple times and now it feels better. Now I'm ready to go try my new shoes, pedals, cooler jersey and go for it again.
We head back to the ride start and hook up with the group just as they're all loading up their bikes. A group of five of us go to lunch and I get to talk to some women about cycling. It was good. They have nothing to gain from me continuing or quitting and they said nothing but encouraging words. They had nothing negative to say about me giving up so early in the ride today. I was touched and encouraged.
It was an emotional day, but a learning lesson and a humbling day. I'm looking forward to tomorrow's ride with friends. It's usually a slower pace and I'm ready for that. I can use the pace to my advantage as I deal with the shoes and clips now too. We're going to ride our "normal" flat route and try to take the gang on the 21-mile loop (only 3 miles of which I haven't ridden before.)
Goals
Today's Miles: 9
Total Miles Achieved: 99.3
Financial Investment: $815.16 (added shoes, cleats, pedals, and summer jersey)
Total Weight Loss: 0
I kept all of that in mind as we drifted off to sleep. Unfortunately, I struggled a bit to fall asleep last night. Which means when the alarm went off, I wasn't jumping out of bed ready for the ride. I got up though and we started to get ready for the ride. I know I'm running slow if I'm still fussing with sunscreen and Pete is making the water bottles. We managed to pull out of the driveway a mere two minutes late. I'll take it!
We arrived at the rendez vous point and signed in for the ride. Pete knows the route, so we didn't look at the maps. We got our gear in order, listened to the pre-ride briefing and then watched the faster groups start out. Cliff asked Pete to sweep, so that meant he'd be at the back of the line. No problem! Someone behind me, if I'm the slowest who I won't be too worried about being too slow for.
We start out and I'm already beginning to think it's hot out. For the record -- it was! At 8 a.m. it was at least 78 already and 84% humidity. "Buck up, Alison! You can't change the weather. Summer is coming. You have to get used to riding in the heat." So, we head out. Cliff, the ride leader, turns left. "Left?!?!? This isn't the route I know, or we discussed, or planned our strategy for." Then I hear Pete say, "Cliff turned left. Hmm... he must be doing the published 30-mile route."
"Ya think? Oh crap! What does that mean I'm in store for? Knock it off! You know what you're doing. Pete will coach you through what you need and tell you when you need to make distance decisions."
My self-pep talk is interrupted by the focus on pot holes and gravel. The road we head out on is under some construction, so it's slow going as we deal with the uneven road and gravel. I learn how to maneuver with someone I don't know in front of me who doesn't point out holes. For what it's worth, there were too many holes to point out (and I wasn't pointing any out to Pete either.)
I'm suddenly ready for some water. Must have gone three miles. Nope! I look down and we've done a mere mile and half and I'm already dripping sweat down my face. I notice two or three people in front of me, and obviously more experienced, grab their water bottles on the fly. I see a stop sign, so I'll get to that point. We stop and Cliff does a pace check. We had been doing about 12 miles an hour. I was doing okay. Occasionally falling a little off the back, but I was unsure of who I was following, so I was giving him some room. The group decides we can pick it up to 13 mph. I don't say anything, but I know I haven't been able to hold that pace before, but I don't want to be the only wimp in the group and maybe the group will keep me motivated to move. So we head off again.
About now, Erica and another rider catch up with us and are gabbing away. Erica used to be Pete's neighbor and we haven't seen her in a couple months, so there's some catching up to be done. Meanwhile, we go up a little incline, I shift once or twice, and I fall off the group a bit. No one says anything and we keep on trucking. I just keep pedaling, but the group gets further and further ahead. "Okay, you'll catch up at that intersection ahead. Then you have to work to stay on the group."
As luck would have it, the group continued through the intersection. Thankfully, Pete knows the route. So, we head through the intersection, make the right and the immediate left. "Oh no! Look at that hill! The group is almost at the top. It'll take me awhile to catch them now." Meanwhile, Erica and the other gal are gabbing away. I'm already gasping for breath! "How are they talking like this when we have to use our energy to get up this hill?!??!" I know they'll pass me going up the hill, but I just have to keep going, keep pedaling, keep shifting and I can do it.
Suddenly. . . I can't do it! I have to stop. I can't breathe. This is where I should mention I've been fighting off a cold, or allergies, or a sinus infection all week. I felt better on Thursday, but Friday night was all stuffed up again, and this morning I am too. I stop without saying a word. I couldn't talk! But, I put myself as far to the side in the grass as I could. Pete quickly tells Erica to catch up with Cliff and not worry about us. He stops in middle of the hill with me. Gasping for breath, I drink some water, then tell him to go ahead and meet me at the top of the hill. I have to walk it. So, I start hoofing it up the hill. Then my right calf starts to try to cramp. I keep stretching it out and won't let it, but finally jump back on the bike for the last little bit so I change the movement in my leg. Now I'm worried! It's too early to be cramping. I hook up with Pete and notice I have another hill and not only is the group out of sight, but so is Erica already!
"Uncle! I can't do another hill like that already. And I have no idea how many more of these are ahead." Pete talks me through our options as I'm staring wide-eyed at the hill. I admit to the hint of a cramp and we decide it's smarter to head closer to the vehicle and ride on the flatter, more known route for me today. My head is pulsing with every heart beat. I'm hot and down-right miserable. But now I feel like a wimp. I had no idea how quickly the humidity would get to me and how it would effect me. I had been a bit cocky about how much I could go out and do after we haven't been out for a ride like this in a month. But, I was giving in at less than six miles!
We go back down the hill. What a nice break. But, I'm moving so fast, I feel shaking in my bike that I'm not used to. My shoulder was already a little sore and now I'm feeling it on the bike. We turn to go down the highway and oh look -- a hill. "Slow and steady and you can do it!" I tell myself. Sure enough, I make it up this little one. I decided to make the most of the ride and started playing with the gears on some of the little ups and downs. I was trying to play with it enough so I could finally remember which number corresponds to the big ring and the little ring and regardless of if it's the big, or little, ring which number on the handle bars is best for getting me up those hills!
We get near the parking lot and Pete mentions it's a right turn. "No kidding! Thank you! We're not going to try to go further." At this point, I know I could pedal further if I needed to, but I'm broken and don't really want to. This is a first for me. Meanwhile, both of my feet feel a bit sore, my shoulders are tight, I've been leaning on my hands, so my palms are sore and my head is pounding and throbbing still. We get to the truck and I jump off my bike. I'm in my sneakers and my feet hurt just to walk in the parking lot. Good sign that I've had enough. We did a measly nine miles today. Oh well... this was a humbling and learning experience. I need to get consistent and serious about this biking. I can't just jump on the bike and ride 30 miles (not to mention the 95 I'll have to do in October.)
Pete offers air conditioning and I take it. I jump in the truck while he loads the bikes. I grab the Gatorade and finish it. I finish the water. My eyes are stinging and feel all puffy. I look in the mirror and my face is bright red! Even I'm shocked at how red my face is. I mention that I now truly see the value in shoes for the help the shoes and clips give to getting you up a hill! Pete offers a trip to Bike World. Perfect! So we head out. I decide to wet my handkerchief and put it on my eyes to try to ease the stinging. It works, but I'm still red and hot!
While stopped at a light Pete says "I still love you," leans in for a kiss and grabs my hand. Simple words that meant so much! I felt like a total wimp and was worried that he wasn't getting the mileage, speed, or training that he needs, and like I'd let him down. And here he is, still proud of me and doesn't put me down, and encourages me to keep on trying. This little moment went a long way!
So, we get to Bike World right as they open. Tom greets us with a smile and after a quick hello, we're shopping for shoes. He understands what I need and listens to me when I tell him how each shoe fits. We quickly discovered that I am a size 40 (not 39 like the guy in Dallas wanted to keep me in) and that the Sidi brand doesn't fit me right. I settle on a pair of Shimanos, which luck would have it, are white with blue accents. Pete goes to get my bike. Tom goes to put the cleats on my shoes. Together they get my bike on the trainer and new pedals on my bike, while I shop the clothing.
They didn't have a lot of shorts in stock. I only have the capri pants, and if they had shorts, I wanted to try them. But, they do have a blue jersey in both a 3X and a 4X. I decide to try those on. The 4X is comfortable, breathable, and roomy enough. The 3X is too and I think will last me longer as I drop some inches. Plus, this one is a much lighter weight fabric than what I had on for the heat and humidity today.
I head over to the bike and put on my new shoes with cleats. Then I climb up on the stand and get on the bike. I clip in fairly easily and immediately notice a difference in how the bike fits. Wow! It pedals differently too. I like it already. I clip in and out a few times and decide I'm good. Pete mentions the fit and I say the seat feels different now. Tom adjusts the seat a couple times and now it feels better. Now I'm ready to go try my new shoes, pedals, cooler jersey and go for it again.
We head back to the ride start and hook up with the group just as they're all loading up their bikes. A group of five of us go to lunch and I get to talk to some women about cycling. It was good. They have nothing to gain from me continuing or quitting and they said nothing but encouraging words. They had nothing negative to say about me giving up so early in the ride today. I was touched and encouraged.
It was an emotional day, but a learning lesson and a humbling day. I'm looking forward to tomorrow's ride with friends. It's usually a slower pace and I'm ready for that. I can use the pace to my advantage as I deal with the shoes and clips now too. We're going to ride our "normal" flat route and try to take the gang on the 21-mile loop (only 3 miles of which I haven't ridden before.)
Goals
Today's Miles: 9
Total Miles Achieved: 99.3
Financial Investment: $815.16 (added shoes, cleats, pedals, and summer jersey)
Total Weight Loss: 0
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
San Antonio Wheelmen Member
I finally pulled the trigger on joining the San Antonio Wheelmen. They are a local bicycling club with regular rides, training classes, and discounts to local stores for members. Pete has been a member and takes photos of some of their events for them.
As I'm new to cycling, I'll be spending money on equipment and gear, so the discount will out-weigh the membership expense. In addition, their monthly stay-together rides have been strongly recommended to me.
Goals
Today's Miles: 0
Total Miles Achieved: 90.3
Financial Investment: $403.05
Total Weight Loss: 0
As I'm new to cycling, I'll be spending money on equipment and gear, so the discount will out-weigh the membership expense. In addition, their monthly stay-together rides have been strongly recommended to me.
Goals
Today's Miles: 0
Total Miles Achieved: 90.3
Financial Investment: $403.05
Total Weight Loss: 0
Monday, May 12, 2008
Back on the Trainer
Bike seats put back in place, so I got myself upstairs and onto the trainer tonight. Unfortunately, the DVR upstairs has been challenged with recording so I didn't have a CSI episode to watch. Thankfully, Pete had also set a National Geographic program on dolphins, so I had something to watch.
I had a couple of false starts as I needed to adjust the seat again. It's amazing how a slight angle in the seat can cause discomfort. I had to get Pete to use "the tool" to adjust the vertical tilt on the seat as I was struggling with my right elbow. Once that was adjusted, that pain went away.
I didn't plan on pushing myself too much as I haven't been on the bike in a few weeks. I quickly found a happy pace at 73 cadence and stuck to it. On a commercial break I took my water break. I was doing well, so the next commercial/fast forward break became my sprint session. I managed to get my legs up to a cadence of 92. I had to focus to not shift my hips back and forth when I was pedaling that fast, but given a short enough sprint, I could do it.
The program ended. I was tired. I'd been on the bike for 48 minutes of pedaling time and gone a round 10 miles.
Goals
Today's Miles: 10
Total Miles Achieved: 90.3
Financial Investment: $381.25
Total Weight Loss: 0
I had a couple of false starts as I needed to adjust the seat again. It's amazing how a slight angle in the seat can cause discomfort. I had to get Pete to use "the tool" to adjust the vertical tilt on the seat as I was struggling with my right elbow. Once that was adjusted, that pain went away.
I didn't plan on pushing myself too much as I haven't been on the bike in a few weeks. I quickly found a happy pace at 73 cadence and stuck to it. On a commercial break I took my water break. I was doing well, so the next commercial/fast forward break became my sprint session. I managed to get my legs up to a cadence of 92. I had to focus to not shift my hips back and forth when I was pedaling that fast, but given a short enough sprint, I could do it.
The program ended. I was tired. I'd been on the bike for 48 minutes of pedaling time and gone a round 10 miles.
Goals
Today's Miles: 10
Total Miles Achieved: 90.3
Financial Investment: $381.25
Total Weight Loss: 0
Time for the Home Scale
I said it was coming. After my doctor's appointment a couple of week's ago, I weighed myself on the home scale. I'm glad I waited. I would have gotten excited about a five pound loss. So... I've not reset the weight loss number and will start from here. It's probably a more accurate number anyway.
The plan is for a Monday and Friday weigh-in. I'll try to hold to that.
Goals
Today's Miles: 0
Total Miles Achieved: 80.3
Financial Investment: $381.25
Total Weight Loss: 0
The plan is for a Monday and Friday weigh-in. I'll try to hold to that.
Goals
Today's Miles: 0
Total Miles Achieved: 80.3
Financial Investment: $381.25
Total Weight Loss: 0
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
A Shopping I Will Go!
First of all, I knew that I needed a sports bra. For a recreational ride, I'm fine with what I have, but to truly get an aerobic workout the sports bra would help. I also have the hope that a sports bra may make those tight bike jerseys look and fit a little better too. I'll leave it at that!
After multiple unsuccessful attempts at finding anything near my size I resorted to online shopping. I found one that I hoped would work. Unfortunately, it was only available in black. Oh well. It is what it is. If it fits and holds me enough, I'll suffer through the outfit faux pas of wearing a black bra under a white shirt.
While I waited for the bra to arrive, we headed to Dallas for the MS 150. As Pete was registered as a rider, he got the usual rider packet complete with coupons for local stores. In Houston, there were lots of coupons, but we had no time to shop. Sadly, in Dallas, we only had two coupons. Pete wanted to go to Richardson Bike Mart (the shop that sponsored Lance Armstrong.) We made it our first stop. Here I tried on shoes, but didn't have much luck. It's tough not knowing what they should feel like and even more tough when you have a wide foot like mine. I'll keep trying shoes on until I find the right ones.
Then we headed to Ft. Worth to go to the Pearl Izumi outlet who had supplied a coupon in the rider packets. Here, I found two jerseys that fit good enough. And they were both in blue! On top of that, they were each under $50 and then I had a 15% off coupon. Can't argue with that deal when a jersey is usually $80-100! So, I walked out of the outlet with two jerseys, another pair of gloves, and another pair of socks. I would have like to get a pair of shorts, but they didn't have any in my size.
All of the above for $164.86 added to my totals below...
Goals
Today's Miles: 0
Total Miles Achieved: 80.3
Financial Investment: $381.25
Total Weight Loss: 0
After multiple unsuccessful attempts at finding anything near my size I resorted to online shopping. I found one that I hoped would work. Unfortunately, it was only available in black. Oh well. It is what it is. If it fits and holds me enough, I'll suffer through the outfit faux pas of wearing a black bra under a white shirt.
While I waited for the bra to arrive, we headed to Dallas for the MS 150. As Pete was registered as a rider, he got the usual rider packet complete with coupons for local stores. In Houston, there were lots of coupons, but we had no time to shop. Sadly, in Dallas, we only had two coupons. Pete wanted to go to Richardson Bike Mart (the shop that sponsored Lance Armstrong.) We made it our first stop. Here I tried on shoes, but didn't have much luck. It's tough not knowing what they should feel like and even more tough when you have a wide foot like mine. I'll keep trying shoes on until I find the right ones.
Then we headed to Ft. Worth to go to the Pearl Izumi outlet who had supplied a coupon in the rider packets. Here, I found two jerseys that fit good enough. And they were both in blue! On top of that, they were each under $50 and then I had a 15% off coupon. Can't argue with that deal when a jersey is usually $80-100! So, I walked out of the outlet with two jerseys, another pair of gloves, and another pair of socks. I would have like to get a pair of shorts, but they didn't have any in my size.
All of the above for $164.86 added to my totals below...
Goals
Today's Miles: 0
Total Miles Achieved: 80.3
Financial Investment: $381.25
Total Weight Loss: 0
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Dallas MS 150 (Sunday)
The alarm went off early this morning. I think Sunday is always the hardest day to get up early, especially after being so exhausted from the first day of the event. Regardless, we managed to get up and get out of the hotel and on our way on schedule. Unfortunately, that schedule was before McDonald's opened for breakfast. We made it to the Speedway as most riders were getting their breakfast.
We headed to the tunnel entrance into the actual track. As riders began to gather, we made arrangements for the ride into the track for the photo opportunity. How many photographers can you pack into the bed of a pick-up truck? We weren't able to answer that question as we needed to get into the track once the gates were opened. Don't want to keep these riders waiting!
As the group assembled in pit row, the volunteers scattered around the track quickly. Pete made his way around to one of the corners of the track and reportedly just got there before the pick-up and bikes made it around. After a couple of false "Are you ready?" we were finally ready and off we went! There wasn't much to do from the back of the pick-up except to keep shooting the riders behind us. Suddenly, I realized I should be taking in the experience too, but then another shot opportunity would come up and back to photographer I went.
Pete got some great shots from his angle! Afterward, I sat in the truck catching more shots of the riders coming out of the Speedway. Meanwhile, the TMS staff picked Pete and the other volunteers up in his truck and took them for a spin around the track at 90-100 mph. He enjoyed that opportunity!
With the riders on the road for the day, we headed back to the Tent Village. Here we had a quick breakfast and told the staff we'd see them in Ft. Worth. We'd decided no one seemed to know of any scenic shots along the route, so we made the decision to head to the finish line at Sundance Square in downtown Ft. Worth.
We found a reasonable parking space and made our way to the actual finish line. After a brief Starbucks run (for us and Tony) and we found our camping spots along the finish line. Pete stationed himself near one of the speakers, but right at the finish line. Here he was able to catch the cheers and excitement as the riders made their way under the banner.
Jamba Juice in hand, I stationed myself half a block away in the bend of the chute as the riders make a turn to get to the bike truck. I had a great angle where the riders came under the banner with the courthouse in background. Although I was in the sun, Pete had fetched the camping chair for me, so I sat and waited for the shots to come in.
In true Ft. Worth style, a rider rode in on the back of a longhorn complete with pink cowboy boots and hat. Friends and family were gathered all along the chute to cheer their riders across the finish line and greet them with hugs and kisses. Most were quickly off once their riders were done. I sat with Doug and some other Feisty Devil friends and family for awhile cheering on the devils as they came in. It sure helped to pass the afternoon.
Finally, we decided we'd captured most of the riders and had plenty of shots to call it a day!
We headed to the tunnel entrance into the actual track. As riders began to gather, we made arrangements for the ride into the track for the photo opportunity. How many photographers can you pack into the bed of a pick-up truck? We weren't able to answer that question as we needed to get into the track once the gates were opened. Don't want to keep these riders waiting!
As the group assembled in pit row, the volunteers scattered around the track quickly. Pete made his way around to one of the corners of the track and reportedly just got there before the pick-up and bikes made it around. After a couple of false "Are you ready?" we were finally ready and off we went! There wasn't much to do from the back of the pick-up except to keep shooting the riders behind us. Suddenly, I realized I should be taking in the experience too, but then another shot opportunity would come up and back to photographer I went.
Pete got some great shots from his angle! Afterward, I sat in the truck catching more shots of the riders coming out of the Speedway. Meanwhile, the TMS staff picked Pete and the other volunteers up in his truck and took them for a spin around the track at 90-100 mph. He enjoyed that opportunity!
With the riders on the road for the day, we headed back to the Tent Village. Here we had a quick breakfast and told the staff we'd see them in Ft. Worth. We'd decided no one seemed to know of any scenic shots along the route, so we made the decision to head to the finish line at Sundance Square in downtown Ft. Worth.
We found a reasonable parking space and made our way to the actual finish line. After a brief Starbucks run (for us and Tony) and we found our camping spots along the finish line. Pete stationed himself near one of the speakers, but right at the finish line. Here he was able to catch the cheers and excitement as the riders made their way under the banner.
Jamba Juice in hand, I stationed myself half a block away in the bend of the chute as the riders make a turn to get to the bike truck. I had a great angle where the riders came under the banner with the courthouse in background. Although I was in the sun, Pete had fetched the camping chair for me, so I sat and waited for the shots to come in.
In true Ft. Worth style, a rider rode in on the back of a longhorn complete with pink cowboy boots and hat. Friends and family were gathered all along the chute to cheer their riders across the finish line and greet them with hugs and kisses. Most were quickly off once their riders were done. I sat with Doug and some other Feisty Devil friends and family for awhile cheering on the devils as they came in. It sure helped to pass the afternoon.
Finally, we decided we'd captured most of the riders and had plenty of shots to call it a day!
Monday, May 5, 2008
Dallas MS 150 (Saturday)
Sure enough, that alarm went off awfully early this morning! But, I managed to get up and into the shower. Somewhere I ended up in a time warp though and we left the hotel a few minutes late. Oh well, that's why I'd built in some spare travel time to the morning schedule. Unfortunately, it was not the best weather for a ride. It was chilly and windy! The flags were already standing straight out and it was going to be a head wind from the start of the ride, for at least half of the day for the riders. Pete was glad for the decision to shoot the event and not ride in the cold and the wind.
I was amazed that the start line was not completely set-up when we arrived. We said our hellos, got some coffee, and started wandering around grabbing photos. The Dallas event has the top ten teams line up in order at the start line. It was nice to see the big team gathered and starting together. The organization of the event is different than what we've experienced at other events. Thankfully, I was able to get answers to questions by going to my contacts to look things up in the "weekend manual". It's so much easier to be in the right place to capture the photo of the moment when you have a heads up of what is happening when and where.
After the dignitaries spoke, we said the Pledge of Allegiance, and sang the national anthem, the ride began. Seeing the teams start together and the teams hanging back to allow their captains to be on the start line was a neat moment. I'm always amazed at the variety of riders at these events. Of particular interest to me was the number of tandem riders. But there are riders of varying skill levels and physical abilities. Plus with the variety of bike types it's just an amazing gathering of so many styles.
Once all the riders were on the road, we headed for the truck. Our first stop was on the shoulder of the highway to capture shots of the riders on the access road. The cyclists were still finding their pace and those matching that pace, so it made for some good shots of bikes taking up multiple lanes.
Then we sat in traffic as the riders made their first left turn. This gave them a bit of a break from the head wind, but simply made it a cross-wind, so they could no longer hide behind a rider in front of them. As we sat at a light, Pete heard the unmistakable sound of a fire engine's Q siren. Sure enough, there came an engine and then an ambulance. We quickly hoped it wasn't a bike accident. Unfortunately, a few blocks later, we arrived at the scene and it was a bike accident. Not only that, it was a Feisty Devil team captain! We learned later that Doug had taken a tumble over a couple of bikes and his shoulder had cushioned his fall. They took him in for x-rays just to ensure nothing was broken.
We stopped at a breakpoint that was in a farmer's front yard. Military personnel were passing out Power Bars and flags were flying in the wind. The riders were in high spirits still and weren't letting the wind get to them. We got back on the road and had a line of riders draft behind us when we couldn't pass on the road. I guess the bus does make a good wind shield!
Then we got to the lake! This was the location I'd been waiting for to get some cyclist shots with scenery. Sadly, the only turnout on the bridge was taken by a Bright Room photographer, so we went to the far end of the bridge. At this point, the need for the shot took over Pete and he pulled out the ladder and climbed on top of the truck before I knew what he was doing! I did my classic dash across the highway and stand on the shoulder for the shot. It was a neat spot. Next year, I'll take a bike and pedal up to the driveway on the bridge and share the spot with Bright Room!
Then we were off to lunch. We still arrived before most of the cyclists. It gave us an opportunity to get some shots of the volunteers getting things set-up for lunch, and of the clients with MS there to greet the riders. We took a brief break to inhale a sandwich and then went back to shooting. The wind was still strong, so it was cold if you weren't in the sun. A cyclist had a wipe out that tore up his jersey, but he was still going, just needed a quick wound cleaning at the medic's tent. We got an update on Doug's shoulder injury, offered to take any team gear they wanted to drop, and then were off.
After a brief detour where we weren't allowed to follow the cyclists on the road, we found the route and were back on our shooting assignment. I was becoming a pro at sitting backwards and hanging out the window for the shot. Pete was great at announcing top fundraisers, Feisty Devil team riders, or other upcoming shots. As we passed Alyse, he hollered hello while I snapped the shot! At the next turn, we blocked the way, allowing the riders to make the right turn without stopping. Cyclists at heart!
As we came through the town of Justin (so much for my boot shopping break) we discovered road construction on the route that had not been announced! This is the point I know Pete would have stopped at and caught a SAG to the overnight. I took a couple shots, but knew that the construction was enough and the riders would not be thrilled about photos with construction in the background anyway.
Finally, we arrived at Texas Motor Speedway. I suddenly understood what Pete meant about how you "can see the speedway a mile away, but it takes you six miles to get there!" Not an exciting end to day one, in my opinion, for the riders. The team village was happening though. Lots of friends and family already at the tents awaiting word on when their loved one would be riding in. We got our shots of the grounds, made ourselves available for team photos, and enjoyed the afternoon.
The team bonding was contagious. The gratitude from the clients with MS was everywhere. The excitement of the achievement of the first day's ride completed through the winds was overwhelming. The friendships, love, and gratitude were everywhere you looked. As we left for the evening to head to the hotel, there were some riders who had still not gotten in from the ride. One friend was sitting along the chute at the finish line holding her sign thanking her rider. This spectator had been there waiting, in the sun, when we arrived at the Texas Motor Speedway this afternoon. That's the dedication and gratitude that surrounds these rides!
I was amazed that the start line was not completely set-up when we arrived. We said our hellos, got some coffee, and started wandering around grabbing photos. The Dallas event has the top ten teams line up in order at the start line. It was nice to see the big team gathered and starting together. The organization of the event is different than what we've experienced at other events. Thankfully, I was able to get answers to questions by going to my contacts to look things up in the "weekend manual". It's so much easier to be in the right place to capture the photo of the moment when you have a heads up of what is happening when and where.
After the dignitaries spoke, we said the Pledge of Allegiance, and sang the national anthem, the ride began. Seeing the teams start together and the teams hanging back to allow their captains to be on the start line was a neat moment. I'm always amazed at the variety of riders at these events. Of particular interest to me was the number of tandem riders. But there are riders of varying skill levels and physical abilities. Plus with the variety of bike types it's just an amazing gathering of so many styles.
Once all the riders were on the road, we headed for the truck. Our first stop was on the shoulder of the highway to capture shots of the riders on the access road. The cyclists were still finding their pace and those matching that pace, so it made for some good shots of bikes taking up multiple lanes.
Then we sat in traffic as the riders made their first left turn. This gave them a bit of a break from the head wind, but simply made it a cross-wind, so they could no longer hide behind a rider in front of them. As we sat at a light, Pete heard the unmistakable sound of a fire engine's Q siren. Sure enough, there came an engine and then an ambulance. We quickly hoped it wasn't a bike accident. Unfortunately, a few blocks later, we arrived at the scene and it was a bike accident. Not only that, it was a Feisty Devil team captain! We learned later that Doug had taken a tumble over a couple of bikes and his shoulder had cushioned his fall. They took him in for x-rays just to ensure nothing was broken.
We stopped at a breakpoint that was in a farmer's front yard. Military personnel were passing out Power Bars and flags were flying in the wind. The riders were in high spirits still and weren't letting the wind get to them. We got back on the road and had a line of riders draft behind us when we couldn't pass on the road. I guess the bus does make a good wind shield!
Then we got to the lake! This was the location I'd been waiting for to get some cyclist shots with scenery. Sadly, the only turnout on the bridge was taken by a Bright Room photographer, so we went to the far end of the bridge. At this point, the need for the shot took over Pete and he pulled out the ladder and climbed on top of the truck before I knew what he was doing! I did my classic dash across the highway and stand on the shoulder for the shot. It was a neat spot. Next year, I'll take a bike and pedal up to the driveway on the bridge and share the spot with Bright Room!
Then we were off to lunch. We still arrived before most of the cyclists. It gave us an opportunity to get some shots of the volunteers getting things set-up for lunch, and of the clients with MS there to greet the riders. We took a brief break to inhale a sandwich and then went back to shooting. The wind was still strong, so it was cold if you weren't in the sun. A cyclist had a wipe out that tore up his jersey, but he was still going, just needed a quick wound cleaning at the medic's tent. We got an update on Doug's shoulder injury, offered to take any team gear they wanted to drop, and then were off.
After a brief detour where we weren't allowed to follow the cyclists on the road, we found the route and were back on our shooting assignment. I was becoming a pro at sitting backwards and hanging out the window for the shot. Pete was great at announcing top fundraisers, Feisty Devil team riders, or other upcoming shots. As we passed Alyse, he hollered hello while I snapped the shot! At the next turn, we blocked the way, allowing the riders to make the right turn without stopping. Cyclists at heart!
As we came through the town of Justin (so much for my boot shopping break) we discovered road construction on the route that had not been announced! This is the point I know Pete would have stopped at and caught a SAG to the overnight. I took a couple shots, but knew that the construction was enough and the riders would not be thrilled about photos with construction in the background anyway.
Finally, we arrived at Texas Motor Speedway. I suddenly understood what Pete meant about how you "can see the speedway a mile away, but it takes you six miles to get there!" Not an exciting end to day one, in my opinion, for the riders. The team village was happening though. Lots of friends and family already at the tents awaiting word on when their loved one would be riding in. We got our shots of the grounds, made ourselves available for team photos, and enjoyed the afternoon.
The team bonding was contagious. The gratitude from the clients with MS was everywhere. The excitement of the achievement of the first day's ride completed through the winds was overwhelming. The friendships, love, and gratitude were everywhere you looked. As we left for the evening to head to the hotel, there were some riders who had still not gotten in from the ride. One friend was sitting along the chute at the finish line holding her sign thanking her rider. This spectator had been there waiting, in the sun, when we arrived at the Texas Motor Speedway this afternoon. That's the dedication and gratitude that surrounds these rides!
Sunday, May 4, 2008
Dallas MS 150 (Friday)
We made the drive north to Dallas on Friday. Pete was riding for the Feisty Devils team as the ride goes from Frisco (just north of Dallas) to Ft. Worth, with an overnight at the Texas Motor Speedway. We made our way to the expo. For those that don't know, the expo is the final packet pick-up location, bike inspection, bike compound for Friday night, a mini party, and a spot to purchase those forgotten or last-minute items from the sponsoring bike shops. We got Pete's packet, t-shirt and goodie bag.
The Feisty Devils team is the third largest team of the Dallas MS 150 and the largest friends and family team (the other two are corporate, Sam's Club and Richardson Bike Mart.) As a large team, they organize a team pasta dinner on Friday night. We claimed our table space and started taking photos of the cyclists, friends, and family all enjoying the event. The team had a great presentation of various awards, a summary of their growth over the last eight years, and some reminders of why we ride in the MS Society rides. It's an amazing way to kick-off the weekend and really get you fired up for the ride.
We came out of dinner and bumped into some friends that work in the MS Society office in San Antonio. In our conversation, I learned that the event photographer had canceled at the last minute, so they had a staff member taking some photos. As I stood there with my gear on my back, I asked what I could do to help! I was there, was going to be shooting the event anyway, tell me what you need and I'll capture it as best as I can. A couple phone calls later, I have a needed photo list in hand, have captured shots of the expo, and was hired as the photographer.
Now I had to rethink my plans for the weekend, review maps, pack gear differently, and determine my attack plan. Pete helped me to talk through some of it on the drive to the hotel. Then he put an offer on the table. He was willing to not ride and assist me in shooting the ride. That would be a big help having a second photographer, but he's a rider, planned to ride, packed to ride, ate dinner for the ride, and I don't want to take that away from him, especially when I know he enjoys riding with the Feisty Devils.
I kept running through a list of shot opportunities in my head. Kept in mind my limitations of driving myself around, my inability to be in multiple locations at once, my lack of knowledge of the route and key people for the Dallas ride. I talked Pete through his reasons for making the offer and what he might miss by not riding. His ultimate comment was that the chapter would benefit more from his photography assistance and wouldn't miss one rider on the road.
We decided to photograph the event as a team. Pete could drive the truck and I could shoot the ride. He could be in those other locations I couldn't get to without missing shots at the first location. We re-evaluated camera and lens assignments, re-packed the gear, and tried to get some sleep. I was a bit nervous and excited about the assignment so even though I was tired and knew it would be an early alarm, falling asleep was a challenge!
The Feisty Devils team is the third largest team of the Dallas MS 150 and the largest friends and family team (the other two are corporate, Sam's Club and Richardson Bike Mart.) As a large team, they organize a team pasta dinner on Friday night. We claimed our table space and started taking photos of the cyclists, friends, and family all enjoying the event. The team had a great presentation of various awards, a summary of their growth over the last eight years, and some reminders of why we ride in the MS Society rides. It's an amazing way to kick-off the weekend and really get you fired up for the ride.
We came out of dinner and bumped into some friends that work in the MS Society office in San Antonio. In our conversation, I learned that the event photographer had canceled at the last minute, so they had a staff member taking some photos. As I stood there with my gear on my back, I asked what I could do to help! I was there, was going to be shooting the event anyway, tell me what you need and I'll capture it as best as I can. A couple phone calls later, I have a needed photo list in hand, have captured shots of the expo, and was hired as the photographer.
Now I had to rethink my plans for the weekend, review maps, pack gear differently, and determine my attack plan. Pete helped me to talk through some of it on the drive to the hotel. Then he put an offer on the table. He was willing to not ride and assist me in shooting the ride. That would be a big help having a second photographer, but he's a rider, planned to ride, packed to ride, ate dinner for the ride, and I don't want to take that away from him, especially when I know he enjoys riding with the Feisty Devils.
I kept running through a list of shot opportunities in my head. Kept in mind my limitations of driving myself around, my inability to be in multiple locations at once, my lack of knowledge of the route and key people for the Dallas ride. I talked Pete through his reasons for making the offer and what he might miss by not riding. His ultimate comment was that the chapter would benefit more from his photography assistance and wouldn't miss one rider on the road.
We decided to photograph the event as a team. Pete could drive the truck and I could shoot the ride. He could be in those other locations I couldn't get to without missing shots at the first location. We re-evaluated camera and lens assignments, re-packed the gear, and tried to get some sleep. I was a bit nervous and excited about the assignment so even though I was tired and knew it would be an early alarm, falling asleep was a challenge!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
