Lodoga Road Race Sunday, July 5th, 2015

L to R, Rick Kyle (3rd place, Body Concepts), Troy Deibert (1st place, unattached), and me (2nd place, Cushman & Wakefield Racing). Of 9 races this season, this is my fifth podium visit.
photo: Neil Leary

Result: 2nd of 22 in M45+4, 5th of 53 (in the full, combined field of E4, M35+4 & M454+4 riders)

Teammates: Neil Leary (m45+4), Rozel Tupaz (m35+4), and Yann Bertaud (m45+5)

Even shortened from seventy to sixty miles (compared to last year), this road race is one of the longest on our cat 4 calendar, which is one feature that has drawn me to it for the second year in a row. The other feature is the 3.1 mile, 1170 ft. climb that starts at about mile 21. This course demands not only strong climbing, but the ability to put out high power for the remaining 38 miles or so, to the finish. Whether you're in the lead, or one of many chase groups, there is no rest. You will work. It's fantastic.

A few days before the race, I was the only CW rider preregistered among precious few racers in all fields. So few in fact that I was really worried that Velo Promo might have to cancel the entire event. By midweek though, the M45+4 field nearly doubled to 21, including powerhouse teammate (and brand new dad!) Neil Leary. New team member Yann Bertaud (M45+5) signed up for his first road race also. And by Thursday, Rozel emailed that he'd be coming up also.

When I have too much time on my hands, I put together one of these. Fuchsia highlights the potential riders to mark.

In researching the preregistered competition, I usually create a spreadsheet that makes it easier for me to parse the riders' past performance in similar USAC events. If they're on Strava, I'll look at their profile and recent rides, to evaluate whether a the upcoming race is in their “wheelhouse”. This course has one decisive feature that frequently causes at least one split in the peloton. The race winner usually comes from the lead group over the top. This was the case when I won last year. The only preregistered rider this year who could match me over the climb was Don Dumaine (Team Revolutions), but sadly he had to withdraw after being pushed off the road by a reckless driver. Don is a blast to race with, and a great guy. He was in our 4-man breakaway last year, racing down in age, as a M35+4 (our fields were combined). I wish him the best, and hope to see him on the road soon.

Even though it's common for officials to combine smaller fields, it looked like I'd have to dial back my speed on the climb to avoid going off alone. Teammate Neil Leary has proven his serious climbing chops this season, but he wasn't so sure he'd get over with leaders. He and I discussed possible race plans on Thursday evening. I said we'd have to see how things shape up on the road, marking the front climbers, and going with them if possible. I would try not to push the pace to the point that Neil got dropped, but I only wanted a handful (4-6) riders in the lead group with me.

Yann Bertaud recently joined CW, lives in Marin Co. and was so excited to make this his first road race, he offered to captain our carpool. We met Neil in Vallejo, and rode together to Williams to check in and warm up. During warmup, Neil started the discussion among USAC officials whether or not to combine fields. Shortly before our 8:40 start time, they opted to combine E4, m35+4, and m45+4 riders for a field of 53. This added a bunch of unknown riders to the peloton.

After the initial few neutral miles, the pace was hot. Rolling outbound for ten miles of flat terrain, speeds surged to 27mph frequently, and the average pace was about 24mph. Rozel did an admirable job of staying at about tenth wheel, while I was stuck near the back of the field, which filled the road, four abreast. Two riders attacked on the 1% ramp leading to the first tiny climb. The surging had softened many legs by now, so it was easy to move up front to monitor the leaders. As the actual climb started, those two were absorbed and we settled into a pace that was noticeably faster than last year. We flew through the first 0.8 miles at 4%, at nearly 20 mph. I didn't bother to look behind to see how many of the 53 were still there, but from the sound of all the heavy breathing, there were too many to take over the top. The remaining 2-1/4 miles averages 8.7% and it feels relentless. The canyon we're ascending seems to be in a direct line with the climbing sun. Even though it's not even 10 a.m., it feels like my head at the exact focal point of a parabolic heat reflector. The actual temperature is probably 80°, expected to climb to 95° or so by the finish.

It's sounding quieter behind me now, and I turn to see Neil slipping back. I'm hanging in with seven leaders, and only one wears a number that matches the 7xx series of the M45+4 group–a good sign. This guy wasn't on my chart, and had registered today. The other leaders appeared to be E4s, as I didn't see any wrinkly skin.

I was trading positions with the back three of our select group, not even capable of matching the leaders. Simon Aeschbacher (E4, Davis Bike Club) pushed the pace so hard that he was soon alone, 10 seconds up the hill and gaining. One of my five remaining mates just said “Damn dude!”, I think mostly as a comment on how pointless it is to go over the top alone with a big gap. Simon did just that. One more guy dropped off the back by the time we crested, and sailed down the 0.9 mile descent, chasing the leader. I captained a good 5-man rotation that soon built a 36-second gap to our nearest chasers. Simon was still up the road, but must've seen the wisdom in soft-pedaling to benefit from our numbers. The six of us united by the short climb back. Our small group worked well together, but I was pretty cooked and was bringing up the rear by the time we crested the summit. I sprinted over the top to latch onto the last guy's wheel. No problem rejoining the others though, as this descent is fast and non-technical. It was easy to coast in a full-aero tuck, back into the group. We attempted to resume our earlier collaboration, but it was clear that some of us were a bit fried–me in particular. The first of many cramps to come were striking my hamstrings.

At about mile 40, coming through the feed zone, I'm pretty sure we're down to about five riders. Simon, Adam Beltz (E4, unattached), and Troy Deibert (M45, unattached) attack. I take a bottle as Jonathan Gunning (E4, Team Velo Wrench) works hard with me to chase. Over the next 20 miles, the two of us trade pulls while getting frequent time gaps from the moto ref. The gap to the leaders hovers at 2 minutes, as does the gap to our nearest chasers.

Cramps become so violent that my left leg locks in a straight position. I can normally power through a cramp but this is a large muscle and I just can't beat it. I wave Jonathan on for the first of several times. He's just so nice that he eases up just enough for me to latch back on once the cramp subsides. The moto tells us that he's racing for 3^rd among E4s, and I'm racing for 2^nd in my group. As the miles roll on, four different muscles are plaguing me with cramps. With 4K to go, it's certain we're not going to catch the leaders. It's almost certain we'll stay away from our chasers, so Jonathan went on ahead to the finish. I had one more bout of trouble, but luckily regained my spin enough to look like a classy racer as I rolled over the line, 2^nd in my age group, fifth on the road.

Later I learned that Neil was in the 4-man chase group behind us. He finished 6^th in our group.

Lessons:

I couldn't plan tactically for this race, due to the combining of age groups. I could only go on my experiences from last year. One thing that I did wrong was to leave my Skratch Labs electrolyte mix at home. Luckily Neil had a bottle of electrolyte capsules that I emptied into my bottles. Other than that, I prepared well, warmed up appropriately, hydrated as much as needed. The cramping is just due to a lack of fitness. It sounds ridiculous, but this race is more like a 60-mile TT. As I said, there's no opportunity to rest, hiding in the pack. No matter what group you're in, you're going to have to put out power constantly.

My report makes this sound like a miserable ride, but it's not... really! It's one of my favorite courses. Check it out next year.

This May 28th is the 43rd Anniversary of the Event That Made Me a Cyclist

70-pound me, rolling in to finish my first century, atop my 35-pound bike
photo: Mom (JoAnn Kinion)

In 1972, at 11 years old, after about eleven hours in the saddle, I completed my first century, the Oak Tree Century. Starting and finishing near Santa Margarita, San Luis Obispo County, CA. It definitely took “a village” to get me across the line, starting with my dad, mom, my sisters and our friends the Hubbards, with whom the Oak Tree Century in San Luis Obispo county became an annual get together for a few years, after we moved up from southern California.

Exhausted, sunburned and sore, being presented with the "Youngest Rider" plaque
photo: Mom (JoAnn Kinion)

Bless dad's heart (and uncle Russ's too) for pacing my short little legs through this long, hot ride. After about 75 miles, they rode on ahead to prep the welcoming crowd for me. A local shop owner rode back from the finish to meet me and escort me the last 25 miles or so, as I was really dragging.

This was my dad's (Tim) first century too. His practically brand new Schwinn Varsity was just as heavy! But he hammered it from Petaluma to Marshall and back almost every Saturday morning.

I think I was just over 4’ 5” tall. This, my first ten-speed, a used Schwinn Varsity, would still be too big for me.
photo: Mom (JoAnn Kinion)

Over the next year dad and I got Merciers with sew-ups.

My brand new Mercier 200 with AVA rims, Normandy hubs, Simplex derailleurs, my trusty leather Ideale saddle, and sew-ups. Quelle différence! Still too big, but I'm growing.
photo: Mom (JoAnn Kinion)

The pride I still feel, for completing this ride, has kept me immersed in cycling ever since. Thanks to dad, mom, and all who’ve encouraged me over the years. And thanks to my fantastic wife, Jen, who understands, and even appreciates my obsession.

Berkeley Hills Road Race, Master 45+cat4, May 9, 2015, 2nd place!

Aaaaaarrrrrghhhh! Can't catch Rob!
photo: Jenny Peng

With teammate Neil Leary. Not pictured, winner Rob Easley
photo: Kevin O'Donnell

Teammates:

m45: Kevin O'Donnell, Henrik Schubert, Neil Leary, Jeff Bell, and me

m55: Dan Wood, Scott La Perle

The field was a blend of m45+ and m55+ riders. The groups race together, but are picked separately. After getting so much support for a good result in my most recent race, I offered to work for other teammates in this one.

Plan A

(evolved during our pre-race conference call)

Kevin/Henrik (breakaway riders)

The peloton has seen CW's m45 cat 4 squad execute fairly conservative race plans this season, with good results, but we wanted to try something different this race... the breakaway. Somewhere in lap two, teammates Kevin O'Donnell and Henrik Schubert would hammer out a 5-min z5 effort to snap a big, decisive gap. If lucky, 4 or 5 guys: Kevin, Henrik, Rider C?, Rider D? (maybe a Zoca guy?). If it doesn't work the first time, hit 'em again.

If Kevin/Henrik successfully get away with a small group, Neil and I don't help chase. We sit in, still protecting Dan. Staying fresh for the finish, whether the breakaway succeeds or not.

Glen Kinion (m45)

has two jobs: Mark the main competition, namely Zoca riders, my buddy Rob Easley (m45) and his teammate Tim Davis (m55), as well as the state's top ranked cat 4 road racer, West Kurihara (m55) (Team Fremont/FFBC pb Chipotle). Job 2: help Neil Leary (m45) protect Dan Wood (m55). Dan has been looking forward to this opportunity to have some support from our deep m45 squad. Therefore I'm marking the top competition in both age groups, to allow Neil to focus on staying close to Dan.

Dan Wood (m55)

is the protected rider

Neil Leary (m45)

protects Dan, keeping him fresh until final sprint. I cover this job if Neil has a mechanical. Neil will keep an even pace on climbs, while keeping Dan safely near the front of the main group. This is where I plan to be doing my work anyway, so both of us will be pacing Dan.

The Race

Team Zoca seemed to be really organized early on. Their fantastic looking orange and blue kits were in control at the front of the field. This made it easy for me to keep track of my marked guys (though I needed Dan to point out Tim and West, as I didn't know them.

No surprises on this lap, easy pace on climbs, no attacks. On each lap, the “lumpy bits” consist of essentially two climbs: Mama Bear and Papa Bear (there is a Baby Bear but it's nothing more than a gentle rise that doesn't warrant a front shift off the big ring). Starting the ascent of Mama Bear on this lap, Kevin and Henrik quietly cruised to the front, then artfully and painfully increased tempo. The peloton reacted just like a blob of Silly Putty when it's pulled in two directions... it snapped. I intentionally soft-pedaled at the front of the rear group to define the gap a bit, more. Neil was next to me and I could see him instinctively cranking hard ahead to regain contact with the 15 or so in Kevin and Henrik's group. A few in the rear group were starting to line up for a free ride behind Neil, so I moved over and put my hand on Neil's shoulder and quietly explained that as counterintuitive as it seems, we need to let the front group go in order to give Kevin and Henrik's effort a chance. Their lead group was probably too big to be organized into a successful breakaway, but if the pace stays hot enough, half of them will be shelled out the back. This will leave a group of about 6, which if they can work together, can build a gap that can succeed. Later in the third lap, Kevin and Henrik would work several tactics to reduce their workload, while fatiguing the others in the breakaway, hopefully improving a chance for a CW 1,2 finish.

Rob and Tim (Zoca) were riding away in that group. Before the race, we agreed that if either or both of them joined, they would be controlled by Kevin and Henrik and then I would devote my efforts to Dan. I could tell Neil was frustrated watching the front group ride off, but he eased up and we sat in as others in our trailing group moved forward to do the chasing. To tell the truth, I wasn't exactly convinced of my decision, but it felt like the one that matched our plan A the best. Shortly, halfway through the dip just past the top of Mama Bear, others in our group gassed themselves towing the rest of us up to the lead group anyway, where Kevin and Henrik must have really been churning the watts with their impressive acceleration up the climb.

So ensconced, you can barely see me (mid-group, white helmet and shoe covers) right behind Kevin's left shoulder. I'm busy marking Rob (orange jersey). Next to me is Dan Wood. Henrik is just behind Dan.
photo: Katie Truong

Somewhere before the ascent of Papa Bear, Dan notified me that Neil had thrown his chain, so I needed to focus on protecting him until Neil could chase back into the group. The pace up Papa Bear was as calm as on the first ascent, except for Kevin, who was doing another hard effort, trying to draw Rob and anyone else who wanted a chance for glory, off the front. I was giving Dan a steady wheel when I saw him fly by. I came alongside and indicated that he was making it hard for me to be there for him by doing so. He apologized and said he'd seen another m55 rider he was concerned about who looked like he was making a move. Kevin and Rob were off the front over the top of Papa Bear, apparently talking about whether to keep growing a gap. The group reunited on the long descent towards the junction with San Pablo Dam Road. And by this time, Neil rejoined us and I went back to marking riders as before.

We're just beginning lap 3 now. Henrik and Kevin can fill in the facts here, as I'm a little fuzzy on the “whens” and “wheres” but on the long haul up San Pablo Dam Rd. Henrik whispered a “get ready” to Kevin. This stretch of the course wasn't one that was considered ahead of time for an attack, but here's to thinking on the road. Henrik surprise attacked, bringing another rider along. They were away around the turn onto Castro Ranch Rd. The group was slow to react, and on the painful pair of kickers on this road, the other guy faded while Henrik kept on the gas, increasing his gap. He got over the top and down the other side, to Alhambra Valley Rd., before getting caught. West Kurihara, who had been hanging out in the back of the peloton decided to ride closer to the front after these powerful CW surprise attacks. And I'm sure several in the peloton were getting tired from chasing them down. I was still fresh, having cruised in zone 1 & 2 all morning, letting others chase.

I checked with Henrik, and he said he was pretty cooked, and wouldn't likely be able to join Kevin on the remaining attack they had planned, somewhere along the rest of Alhambra Valley Rd. or on Bear Creek Road. The peloton was watching everything we were doing now, happy to cruise easily along behind us. I moved up to the front to check in with Kevin, letting him know Henrik was done. I was about to suggest I go with him on this next attack, but he mumbled something about being pretty cooked himself, and I might as well figure on saving myself for the “bunch sprint” this last time up Papa Bear.

I was a bit unsure, but dropped back a few wheels to get behind my marks while I giving both of my mates a chance to recover if possible. I was thinking things over: They had each put in very taxing efforts that had a big impact on the race so far. Each attack wasn't a coordinated, two-man attack as we planned, but I wouldn't even be seeing straight if I were in their shoes, so best to give Kevin some space. Then I look ahead and Kevin is making his own space! He's stealthily grinding away 30 meters, 40, 70, 100... Two from Zoca are chasing, but seem concerned about zapping their strength, so they ease off. Two Berkeley Bicycle Club riders take on the job, and with great difficulty, eventually reel Kevin back in. I can't remember if the chase continued part of the way up Mama Bear too.

During each of my teammates' attacks, all of my marked riders had to put in big efforts. Good job K & H!

Near the top of Mama Bear, Marty Panos (CA Racing) “hail Mary-ed” going to the front. He always puts it all out there, but this was too little too late. Neil and Dan were right with me as we carefully threaded our way towards the front of the group at the base of this final climb up to the finish. It was time for plan B.

The attacks Kevin and Henrik executed were an attempt to end a dynamic all too common in category 4 racing: The big, clunky, bunch finish. In this case we were still a big group, but only a few of us were fresh. So thank you so much Kevin and Henrik for wearing the others down. Plan A was still going to be a success after all.

Dan wanted me to pace him up the climb as long as I could hold back, and Neil was free to go his own pace. The front of the pack was already thinning within the first minute up the climb. I saw my main competition, Rob Easley go to the front earlier than I had hoped, so I had to abandon Dan (sorry Dan!). I didn't want to ramp up my speed too much yet, so tried to simply not let Rob's gap get any bigger than 10 or 15 meters. Rob and I have climbed a lot together, and I have yet to stay with him, but he does make a good “rabbit.” While trying to match his pace, we had a big gap on the rest of the field. With 200 meters to go, I shifted two cogs smaller, got in the drops and drove my heart rate to 182, but it was clear that Rob was unstoppable. Glancing under my arm at the chasers, maybe 40 meters back, it was also apparent that I would stay away for 2nd.

Rob goes off. Even if I hadn't delayed while trying to pace Dan for a bit at the bottom, Rob's un-catchable.
photo: Jenny Peng

Rob and I congratulated each other, then I was thrilled to see teammate Neil come in 3rd! Coming across 4th with a flat front tire was Dan Schaefer (Christian Cycling), who finished right behind me at the Copperopolis Road Race last month. Then 5th overall, but 1st among m55s, CW teammate Dan Wood! Great results considering this was “plan B!”. Crossing the line we each heard raucous cheers from CW teammates who rode out to watch the race. Paige was again a huge help during and after the race.

Henrik and Kevin were “in it to win it” with these successive attacks in plan A. We felt pretty secure that we could execute proper protection for Dan in the m55 group, and still be ready for Neil and I to play out plan B if needed. I'm convinced it's only because of the stress that Kevin and Henrik put on the rest of the peloton, that made that second plan a success. Once again a thinking team shows how to get results. Great job guys, and thanks for the sacrifice.

Thanks for reading, and for all of the support. Any comments, questions or discussion are welcome. As are any corrections from my teammates.

Race Report: Wente Classic Road Race, m45 cat 4/5

Two steps lower than I'd planned, but glad to be on the podium
photo: Jennifer Kinion

Introduction:

Being the protected rider was a brand new experience for me. In my profession, I usually work either as an employee or independent contractor. I've only rarely supervised and/or managed crews on single-day video production shoots–so seeing my race teammates give their all, to put me in position to sprint up Carroll Rd. was transformational for me. They did everything that was asked and more. I can't say I'm completely at ease with the demands put on them, especially as I watched my heart rate lollygag in zone 2 for most of the race, but having been in their position for other races this season, I know they were glad to do it, not just for me, but for the team. And I knew my result was their result, so believe me I felt pressure and responsibility to deliver.

Teammates:

Henrik Schubert, Rob Lytle, Neil Leary, Mark Carson, Robin Roberts, Jorge Lopez

The core team consisted of me, Henrik, Neil, Rob and Mark. Since Robin is new to road racing, Kevin O'Donnell wisely suggested he use this race as a learning experience, and so we didn't assign him any challenging duties. But we left the door open if he was feeling comfortable doing some work early in the race. Jorge was a same-day registrant, and I didn't have time to find out what his strengths are, and so sadly I wasn't able to incorporate him into our crew.

Goals:

Glen on the top step of the podium, with potential for podium and/or top-5 results for Henrik and Neil.

Original Strategy (many thanks to Henrik for finessing this out of my first plan): 

Dial back the tempo on climbs, to keep our powerhouse teammates, Rob, Mark and Neil in the mix to “freight train” it on the flats, while protecting Henrik and me. Pushing the pace like this on consecutive laps, we hoped to wear down potential strong climbers before the final ascent to the finish. Henrik protected me in the peloton. He was committed to deliver me to the base of the final climb in the front few positions, where I was confident that I would be able to match the fastest climbers for the final climb and sprint to the line.

Results in a field of 42:

Glen - 3rd

Henrik 7th

Mark 12th

Neil 20th

Robin 31st

Jorge 34th

(by listing everyone's placing, I just want to show how well they finished, even after the significant amount of work they did to get me onto that podium)

Flaws in my plan:

Not enough knowledge about competitors. There was zero intel on winner Thomas Ivey (cat 5, team Skadden), who raced on a single-day license. I also should have paid closer attention to the resume of 2nd place Kevin McHugh (cat 4, Coretechs Cycling Team). I should have noticed his strong finishes at Sea Otter and the Central Coast road series races.

The hamstring cramp came from nowhere. I was thoroughly hydrated, and my fitness is great right now. I rode hard on the Wednesday evening Col du Pantol ride, but rested thoroughly and did only two other z1 recovery rides in the days leading up to this race.

Before the race:

Every teammate was onsite at least two hours before race time. We checked in with each other and everyone knew the plan, but would be ready for adjustments on the road.

The race:

Just as planned, our team set a comfortable pace at the turn onto Altamont Pass Rd. Rob, Neil Mark, Henrik then me. Rob Neil and Mark set a calm pace on this first climb. To avoid swarming, we upped the pace across 580 onto Flynn Rd. with Mark and Rob driving. 

Mark Carson (front left) and Rob Lytle (front right) driving a hard pace on upper Flynn Rd.
photo: Alex Chiu

The peloton didn't seem to mind letting us lead. Cresting the Flynn climb, Henrik me, Phil Malaspina (SJBC) and 4 or 5 others descended fast enough to cause large gaps on the strung-out peloton. While I knew these wouldn't stick, it told me that there were just enough skittish descenders in the pack that we would be able to hammer the descents on each lap, causing cumulative fatigue in the legs of those who allowed too much space ahead of them. Hopefully some of these guys would be the same ones who hoped to beat me on the climb to the line.

The peloton reunited on the slog up Patterson Pass Rd. to Cross Rd. There's a hump on Cross which makes even the strongest rider feel like resting. The pace eased here. Rob and a rider from Peninsula Velo hammered, and soon had a good gap. Our race plan was flexible enough to include opportunity for Rob and/or Mark to break away if circumstances were favorable, but this wasn't the case now. Rob says that rider refused to work with him because our team was so big, so Rob came on back. North on Greenville, The northwest wind was fairly significant this morning, so anyone on the left side of the pack was working a bit harder. Rob brought powerful Robin roberts up front to help Mark and Neil, while Henrik and I cruised, sheltered in the peloton.

Staying cool and protected on Henrik's wheel
photo: Alex Chiu

The four of them really flew up Greenville, and kept things hot on Altamont. Rob kept the speed up to the base of Carroll, where the second ascent was even more relaxed than the first. I had been having a luxurious zone 1 & 2 Sunday ride to this point. I can't explain why halfway up Altamont, my right hamstring locked up in a cramp. I think I heard snikkering behind me as I lurched out of the saddle to allow other muscles to take over. I would've had a hard time avoiding a laugh out loud if it had happened to another protected rider. I dropped back 15 positions while I massaged the area and brought the spasms under control. I felt like a wuss, being pampered as I had been, yet suffering a cramp?! Along the ascent of Carroll, I checked in with Henrik to give him a heads-up that I had some cramping. Onto Flynn, Neil and Mark were driving the pace hard. Henrik got word to him to dial it back a bit to give me a chance to shake out the muscles. With some out-of-saddle relaxing, I was back in business.No attacks, and gruppo compacto, there were no real fireworks on the descent of Flynn. On Cross again, Rob was doing more work, but was spent. He wished us farewell and dropped back, while Neil drove the wagon train hard. At some point, our field was neutralized to allow the P 1/2 race to pass safely. This allowed Rob to rejoin our peloton.

Neil drilling on the front, as he did so much of the time
photo: Alex Chiu

As far as I can recall, Neil drove the bus hard from Cross Rd, Greenville, to Altamont on the remainder of this second, as well as on the third and final lap, with big horsepower help from Mark as well.Approaching the third ascent of Carroll Rd, Henrik quietly told me to watch out for attacks. He had picked up some hints that the race might explode on this climb. The pace up the steep part of Carroll was in fact much faster. The group was strung out, but not catastrophically. Neil led the descent of Flynn, with Henrik and I in tow. I made space for Phil Malaspina ahead of my wheel, hoping he would work some of his expert descending magic and perhaps go up and drive, but he was content to sit in.Neil kept hammering on Cross, then the peloton regrouped and swelled forward on Tesla and Greenville. I was making room for Mark to go up front to work with Neil, and now I think Rob was still running strong in the group again. But a few more riders slipped between Mark and Henrik and I soon found myself near the back of the field. Henrik noticed this too, but no big emergency, before the hump on Greenville,I moved up on the left side without burning any crucial matches, to catch Henrik's wheel, where we coasted down the other side, to a spot in the front few positions of the peloton. On this last cruise of Greenville, I'm really starting to feel the responsibility to win this race. I've been cared for by an incredible team of individuals who have selflessly sacrificed their chances of victory. Was my hamstring loose enough? Am I going to get a puncture? Will there be an attack that sticks?A couple of other riders were drilling the pace and peeled off before the turn onto Altamont, where Rob gave one more powerful surge. He had a good gap of 60 meters or so! He tromped on the gas as long as he could. I thought “Go Rob!” If he could get enough of a lead, maybe he's got a shot! The peloton was really stringing out in chase, so this hammered some guys. Rob ran out of gas before the turn onto Carroll, but he did some more damage to some other guys' hopes with this final effort.Neil can climb fast, but had consistently hammered for laps 2 and 3, yet I hoped he could somehow be in the mix on this final ascent of Carroll with Henrik and I. Yes this is my A race, but the line is fair game for all of us.Henrik put me exactly where I wanted to be–at the front, just before the turn onto Carroll Rd. A tall rider (Thomas Ivey) attacked into the turn, coming up the left side, like a rocket. Two more riders reacted (Kevin McHugh and Iain Russell). I was right on them, but Ivey was 50 meters ahead and disappearing already on this, the steepest pitch of the climb. McHugh was getting away as well. I overtook Iain quickly, and was fully anaerobic trying to claw back to the two leaders. As the grade of the climb starts to ease, I was gaining on 2nd place McHugh, but damn it if Ivey was long gone. I flew faster up that climb than I ever had, face contorting worse than Thomas Voekler's, but could not close the gaps and came across the line third, to huge cheers from scores of CW fans, including my wife. What a damn thrill!I'm really proud of our result, though I felt I had not fully done my job after all the dedication of my team. They did exemplary work keeping me fresh and rested, then put me in position exactly as planned, where I could do my job. None of us could know who was hiding in the pack, riding smart, riding sheltered. Third is not first, but that's totally on me. I think this was another A-grade effort by this fantastic team. I'm so glad I was able to finish off with CW on the podium.

Takeaways:This race has left me with many mixed feelings. First of all I'm in awe of the dedication of this team, and I'm so proud and grateful that they all allowed me the chance to lead. I tried to make sure that everyone had a chance to give input to develop the plan, and the freedom to execute adjustments on the road. My road captain, Henrik is an amazing solid, cool performer who was happy to do for me what I tried to do for him at Copperopolis. But when I wrote “3rd” in “results” above, it really struck me, how different this season is compared to 2014, after racing unattached, every race an “A” race, free to ride as strong and stupid as I wished, with some great results and a very high ranking. This podium result belongs to this team, and I won't forget that.

Copperopolis Road Race, April 4th, 2015

L to R: Glen, Kevin O'Donnell, Henrik Schubert
photo: Rob Lytle

group: Master 45+4

date of race: 04/04/15

Teammates: Kevin O'Donnell, Henrik Schubert & Rob Lytle

My result: 3^rd of 21

For our small master 45+4 group of 21, we only race two laps of this, partially rough, 21-mile loop. For this, my second appearance at this race, the course truly felt like an old, dear friend.

Previous experience and a recent pre-ride with Rob Lytle, Henrik Schubert and Dan Wood, helped me dial-in the perfect air pressure for my 25mm clinchers: 70psi/85psi (front/rear). At these pressures, I was perfectly comfortable on the rougher sections–even while hammering, full-gas,on the long descents.

Kevin, Henrik and I have talked about this race for a few months on our frequent training rides in Marin, and it was clear that each of us wanted to finish well. The plan we arrived at during our pre-race conference call had impressive flexibility built into it, which, while none but me dared utter the possibility before the fact, allowed for three of us to stand on the podium.

I'll just quote part Kevin's efficient account of our race plan for lap two here:

Plan A: If the group was 7 or 8, we’d press only hard enough to weaken them, and keep Henrik surrounded and fresh for a sprint finish, where he is strongest.

Plan B: If too many or made up of big sprinters, then I would attack to open a large enough gap to make sprinters chase.  That would (in theory) allow Henrik and Glen to rest on the back of that chase … as close to the finish as possible.

I'll add:

I would be Henrik's lieutenant throughout, carrying his extra bottles on climbs & making sure he had my steady wheel. We would stay sheltered within the group, then attack over the final short climb. Ultimately I would deliver Henrik at my top speed to the beginning of the true full descent on the final lap.

The 4-mile, 4% climb on the first lap begins barely two miles in. One quarter of the starters are usually shed on this first ascent, and this seemed to be the case again. An earnest attack at this point isn't unheard of, and in fact a rider did get away, soon joined by two others. We know that while the WNW wind in the high valley wasn't particularly strong this day, it is significant for a tiny breakaway group to battle, and even if they can stay away until lap two, it's unlikely they'll hold their gap on the long climb coming up. Once in the high valley, our small CW band had no trouble forcing a strong pace while all but one breakaway rider faded back into our group before the short climb out of the valley. I missed the moment when we absorbed the remaining lone leader.

Kevin, Henrik and I hit the descent at high speed, creating a split in the remaining group. Rob was gapped during this split, but he and one or two more chased back on by the beginning of lap two. At this point I'd say we were down to fewer than a dozen of the original 21 starters. Kevin or Henrik told Rob to go ahead and “empty the tank, forcing the pace into the big climb, in hopes of wearing down others' legs.

Approaching the feed zone, Rob was preparing his last hard effort to wear down riders. I was on his wheel as he lost grip of a bottle he was pulling from its cage to jettison, prior to grabbing a fresh one from Paige. The bottle nearly fell in our path but he showed amazing futbol skills, juggling it with legs, crank arms, feet, while calling out to warn the rest of us, ultimately managing to nudge it to the side of the road. By now Rob was taking a bottle from Paige. I was concerned that Paige might not be able to reload in time for me, so as a failsafe, I grabbed an available neutral bottle. Henrik was right on my wheel and in good position to receive a bottle from Paige, who would've been more than ready for me. Henrik drank up, then I had him give it to me to haul up the hill. Rob burned what power he had as the climb kicked up in earnest. He had made some guys hurt before peeling off, which likely helped reduce potential attacks. Well done Rob!

As the climb began kicking up, Kevin asked Henrik frankly, “Is this the group you want to have?”

I couldn't quite hear the answer, but it was apparent to me that this herd needed thinning. I knew Kevin would gradually force the pace on this climb, though it didn't seem like Henrik was feeling his best yet.

Kevin went to the front and it seemed he was increasing the pace, stretching out the group. The overall pace so far was well within “conversational” for me, though I heard very labored breathing from competitors. Henrik's bright aero shoe covers were a big help to me in that it was easy to keep track of him with quick glances back under my arm, but he was riding nearer the back of the group now. Normally I would force a harder pace up this climb, but the commitment to watch out for a teammate kept my animal instinct in check.

1.5 miles into the climb, Kevin was leading, and picking up speed even more. Henrik shifted and his drivetrain seized, forcing him to a stop near the left side of the road. I was on the right side, with several riders between and immediately behind me. Damn! I left too much space between us. I slowed to a crawl, letting the group go. I didn't dismount or u-turn, suspecting that Rob couldn't be far behind, and he might help sooner. Just as I was about to reverse direction, I heard Rob bellow, “I got him! GO! GO!”. Rob must have burned actual bone marrow to launch Henrik to my wheel. Their effort was significant, so once Henrik was on my wheel I didn't try to regain the group too rapidly. We still had two miles of ascent ahead. By the time the climb was done, Kevin was off the front, with a 20-second gap, charging east into the high valley.

By this time, Kevin couldn't know of Henrik's mechanical misfortune, or the fatigue that chasing back into the group inflicted on him. Even so, this new situation was working out according to one of our planning scenarios, Plan B. Henrik and I now had a “free train ticket” as Marty Panos (CA Racing), Chris DeMattei (Victory Velo), Shawn Blosser (CA Racing), and one other organized their attempt to chase Kevin down. As gatekeepers, I rode 5^th and Henrik 6^th wheel, reducing the likelihood of other riders joining the mission, as the miles ticked off–moto-ref announced Kevin's gap was now “forty seconds”, “one minute”, and then “one-fifteen”! It was a little bit heartbreaking to watch the four of them struggle.

After a few more minutes the chase was failing–now driven only by Marty and Chris. Marty was beside himself. One mile before the base of the final short climb, Marty made one last all-out solo, 45-second effort before being reabsorbed into our group, completely frustrated.

As the final short climb begins, the hills shelter us from the wind. Now there could be no danger of catching Kevin, so our plan for a decisive attack on the short, final climb, that tows no unwanted passengers is next. I feel perfectly fresh. I felt like this race had been a z2 ride. But Henrik looked serious when he checked in with me one more time, telling me he still hasn't recovered from the chase on the long climb. He doubts he will have the legs for our attack. He told me “It's you.” I suppose I should have paused a moment to be sure, before blasting off, but this attack needed to be decisive. I took off and within 30 seconds, I had a workable gap. This gap grew, though nearing the summit, I began to feel mild cramping in my vastus medialis muscles. I could keep the twinges in check if I stayed in the saddle. I dumped it into the 50x11 and hammered over the top, onward and down, not looking back, only hoping that my previous experience on this hill would pay off on this bouncy, 31mph average, 7-minute full-gas descent.

As the descent flattens, I was surprised to see Kevin only about 600 meters ahead. We're within a mile of the finish. Would I catchhim? What do I do? No doubt chasers are bearing down. But he has earned this win! I looked behind and was thrilled to see blue–Henrik! There was one rider chasing some distance behind, too far to be a threat to what was now a very blue finish... as long as these cramps... ooh, stronger spasms now... no danger of overtaking Kevin for sure now I guess I did ride sort of hard today after all. In fact as much as I want to, I can't give Henrik a run for his money!

I found out later that Henrik had been covering several repeated attacks on the remainder of the climb, helping to maintain my gap. Then he executed an even faster descent than mine. By the 1k sign, Henrik overtook me. Shortly after that, Kevin crossed the line, then Henrik, and then me after a few more seconds.

What worked:

Preparation

My fitness this spring is apparently miles ahead of last year. While training climbs are merely on par with my best efforts, I'm sustaining longer efforts at threshold, sprinting better, and weathering random race-pace surges with less fatigue.

Previous experience on this course in the form of pre-rides and the past year's race, paid off.

Planning

Discussion about certain races with teammates and even just comparing notes on sleep, diet, hydration and form, during training rides goes a long way to laying the foundation for the pre-race phone conference, where preliminary race plans are formed.

Commitment and Flexibility

During the race, things change. A good race plan has flexibility and being direct and honest with teammates helps everyone make the adjustments necessary.

Commitment to teammates, commitment to a descent or an attack takes effort. I can't believe how many times I had to force myself to forget last year's “unattached rider” mode during this race. Committing to stick to Henrik likely kept my efforts governed, saving more power for the final chapter.

Lessons Learned

Follow Through

I tried to be consistent and supportive, but I “dropped the ball” when Henrik's drivetrain seized. Fortunately Rob was near enough to step in, but I really should've found a way to stop and assist sooner.

Reduced Training Week in Wisconsin

From the 2013 Cheesehead Roubaix
© 2013, Moroder Photography

To avoid "burying the lead" I'll just throw it out there right now... ship your bike and fly out to Wisconsin for the Cheesehead Roubaix, April 26th. My brother in law, Dave Hanrahan has founded this great ride that is in the tradition of the spring classics of Europe. I got an abbreviated preview of this ride, and it is definitely a blast for those participating. While I can't attend this year (it's the same date as the Wente road race here in California), I hope to do the full route in the future. More on this great event later in this post.

It's been just over two years since my wife, Jen and I have made it back to the Milwaukee Wisconsin area, to visit her side of the family. Now, after twenty years of visits to Jen's place of origin, this California native has finally sampled of all four its seasons. It seems this midwestern spring is rather mild–two or three days of 18-30 degree temperature, followed by two or three days topping out at 50 degrees or so. There is no snow left, just frozen earth and thin ice on standing water in the bogs and ditches.

With one of my favorite road races coming up this Saturday, this trip away from my bike would certainly create a break from my weekly ten-hour training schedule. Either the reduced intensity will help or hurt... I'll find out on Saturday.

The Domes, in Milwaukee

With Jen, her mom Carol and dad Tony at the Domes

Staying at Jen's parent's home in Franklin, WI, Jen and I do daily three-mile walks around Mud Lake in Grobschmidt Park to at least keep the body moving.

In winter I love hearing the ice covering the lake “sing” as the surface expands and heaves. Right now, there is no ice, but there are lots of Cardinals and Robins. The native trees and smaller plants are still dormant, but once the ground defrosts, I assume buds will erupt everywhere.

Two nights in West Bend, at Maria and Dave's home (Jen's sister and her husband), was great fun and also reunited me with two-wheeled workouts. Many faceted brother-in-law Dave is a strong CX and XC racer in Wisconsin. He doesn't just race, train and ride, but advocates for cycling. His blog posts remind me how involved one can be in the cycling community and beyond.

Dave loves road cycling as well, and in the tradition of the European cobbled spring classics, founded and organized the CheeseheadRoubaix. This 63-mile, unsupported group ride is growing every year, and I have to say that its ten miles of dirt, gravel, and very possibly slippery mud, it's worth a special trip in late April from anywhere in the country.

Jeff's bike on Dave's trainer, in the "gym"
photo: Jennifer Kinion

Dave's Pedal Moraine teammate Jeff Wren (also a competitor) came by to lend me his beautiful Felt CX bike. Jeff rocks. It was closer to my size than all of Dave's bikes.

While on Sunday the weather turned warm, it rained all day. I put in a 100-minute stationary trainer workout. Monday the sky cleared, the temperature topped out at 50-degrees, and Dave took me on a 42-mile loop which showed off a couple portions of the Cheesehead Roubaix route.

Dave and I before rolling out for a 42-miler
photo: Jennifer Kinion

I brought my pedals and road shoes, and borrowed Dave's spare helmet and a water bottle. I was thrilled to discover that Jeff's 54cm frame fit me pretty well. Rides from Dave's place usually start and end on the beautiful Eisenbahn Trail, with access right across the street. After thirty minutes of warmup, I did some sprints, then settled in while Dave showed off the countryside which, even in its dormant state, is strikingly beautiful.

Lover's Lane: The first, and most challenging section of gravel on the Cheeshead Roubaix route

Dave topping the tough uphill grind

While time was short on this day, Dave incorporated the first and last sections of gravel that lucky riders of the Cheesehead Roubaix will grind over.

I can't thank Dave and Jeff enough for arranging some training time for me on this trip. While I gained four pounds or so eating fish fry on Friday evening with the family...

The family having fish fry

and frozen custard from Leon's after a trip to the domes...

What's frozen custard? Think "gelato", but even better!

I think I'll still be ok for this Saturdays Copperopolis road race.