JCT/Clark

31 Aug 2011 2 Comments

by Chief Cook and Bottle Washer in Uncategorized

ShelbyVelo had a great turnout with Philly, Sled, Jay, Kevin, and myself. Oh and about 40 other riders. I was somewhat concerned at first because I found myself at the back the pack and wondering what I was going to be able to do about it. Luckily the gang didn’t beat up on me too bad last night and was able to muster the energy to make up the slack. I could see Sled, Philly, and Jay well up in the pack and lookin’ comfy, I just hoped that I could hang on long enough to make my way up. I’m not sure but I think we lost Sled on Whiteland Rd. because I had to make a bridge about half way to Hurricane Rd. I thought he was one that I passed. It remained somewhat calm until a freakin’ moron tried to pass the entire pack right before the 4 way by the golf course and almost had a head on with an oncoming car. I’m not sure how we’re suppost to treat a guy that endangers 40+ riders because he’s in so much of a hurry that he would pass blind. Stupid, Stupid, stupid that all I can say. The lead riders had mercy on the majority and kind of sat up, which didn’t really work well for those who couldn’t accelerate quickly up a long grade. I remember giving Philly the come on buddy as we headed up and over the 2nd overpass. I’m thinking he and others were able to bridge back on because the lead riders seem to let up. Well at least until we headed south. I was having one of those nights that seemed like I was either on the pedals hard or hitting my brakes; alot of moving left to avoid the wheel in front of me which I can imagine was driving those behind me a little crazy. The harder I tried to anticipate and change my cadence, the worse I got. I hate that because I know the effect that has on riders trying to follow. We’re suppose to make smooth consistant moves, maintaining position and speed. I only pulled through once while headed east just south of the water plant; it certainly seemed like there were more than enough riders willing to get up front and work hard. So I was content to just hang in and suck some wheel. Jay and I finished with the lead pack neither one really having the gas to seriously sprint. Which I wouldn’t feel right about even if I had the gas to do it especially after the wheel sucking I enjoyed. I’m always surprised to see people making a move at the end after not spending one turn on front. Oh well, to each his own. I had a 24.5 average which always makes me think about Randy the TT king, who manages to do that all by himself for 40K; WOW!
I do have to give Suitcase a shout out. He was up front pushing the pace almost the entire ride. He’s an animal I tell ya!!! Not bad for a guy that’s turning 50 and only been riding 4 or 5 years; genetics, ya that’s it!!! Well done. I would be remiss if I didn’t show a little love for the lil hubbmeister, Ryan. He was upfront shaking and moving doing some real work with his teammates from the wheelman. It was good to make it home with all my part in tact.
JJ

Advertisement