Monday, December 18, 2006

Finished!!!


Well, I finally finished! My weekend riding took me right up to my goal of 3500 miles. I now am free to sit back and enjoy the holiday season without worrying about when and how I will get my next ride in.

This experience has been a great one for me. I learned that I can actually make a New Year's resolution and follow it through to the end...over the course of a year no less. That is very satisfying.

I also learned that for me, sometimes it takes the weight of a personal commitment hanging over my head to actually be productive. I can't tell you how many days this year I would have much rather sat on my butt at home than go out on a cold lonely ride after work.

Not that every ride was cold and lonely. Much to the contrary. The majority of the time I spent on my bike this year (233 hours assuming a 15 mph pace -- that is almost 10 straight days of nonstop riding or 4.5 hours of riding every week of the year) was time well spent. I listened to many Alistair Beggs sermons on my iPod, a couple C.S. Lewis books, 1776 by David McCullough and some others.

I also shaired great conversations when I was lucky to be joined by friends and family including my buddies James, Jesse, MAC and of course Dad (who got me over the winter hump and in position to finish a little earlier than I had anticipated). And Liz should get some credit for loggin at least a couple hundred miles with me!

And, of course, the solitude on many a beautiful day was a refreshing time to think, clear my head and pray.

Time well spent.

So what now?

I will of course keep riding, and keep logging my rides here. I am considering shooting for a higher number next year but at present work looks to be taking up more of my time in the past so I may have to reconsider that. We will see. I guess it all depends on if I have that one-too-many glass of champagne this New Year's!

After all, that's how this whole thing got started!

Friday, December 15, 2006

Mileage update

I haven't posted my last couple rides. I got out for 20-something mile rides on Saturday and Sunday and then did not get back on the bike till Thursday when I rode 24 miles.

I went out early this morning and logged 16 miles.

The weather is ridiculously warm right now so I anticipate finishing my New Year's goal tomorrow or Sunday.

I only have 33 miles to go!

Thursday, December 07, 2006

A quick morning ride

I had very little time for riding today, but was able to get out early this morning. I only rode 13 miles.

My odometer now reads 3380.

Wednesday, December 06, 2006

It's COLD out!

I forced myself to go out on a ride this morning at 7:30 (it was the only time I had today because of work). This was the first time I have ridden in sub-freezing temps since January and I forgot how much I hate being cold.

I managed to get in just over 16 miles before I was frozen to the bone.

My odometer now reads 3367.

I hope to get a similar ride in tomorrow morning and then ride both Saturday and Sunday. If I do that, I should be well under 100 miles to go heading into the early part of next week.

Sunday, December 03, 2006

50-mile weekend

I got out for just over 20 miles this morning. I now have 149 miles to go.

Stats:
21.78 miles
Avg 17.1 mph
1 hr 16 mins
Cad 81
Odometer 3351

Saturday, December 02, 2006

Saturday ride

The unusual stretch of warm winter weather ended today, as the temps plunged from the 70's down to the 40's. It gave me a chance to sport my new Descent winter gloves which kept my hands pretty toasty.

I rode alone today down to Old Town where they were having some sort of festival that required men to wear their scottish kilts and women the same. Pretty cool...

It was windy on the way home -- about 15-20 mph prevailing in the face. I rounded the ride out with some laps down around the tidal basin.

Stats:
30.32 miles
Avg. 14.9 mph
2 hrs 3 mins
Cad 65
Odometer: 3329

Thursday, November 30, 2006

Thursday ride stats

It was ridiculously warm today so I took the opportunity to log some miles.

I listened to this new U2 album I bought on iTunes. There are some great live performances on this one.

Stats:
29.89 miles
Avg 16.3 mph
1 hr 50 mins
Cad 75
Odometer 3299

Wednesday, November 29, 2006

Getting closer

I got out for an early morning ride yesterday with James. We went down to Old Town and back. The trails were empty at the early hour.

Total ride was 23 miles. My odometer now reads 3269.

Not sure if I will have time to get out today...

Sunday, November 26, 2006

100 miles in four days

While in western PA for Thanksgiving Dad and I rode Wednesday through Saturday. We had absolutely beautiful weather for this time of year and I enjoyed the rolling western PA hills (as well as the company on my bike--I am pretty tired of riding alone)...although as I rest today on the couch, my legs are telling me the downtime watching football instead of riding is well-advised.

We rode 20 miles on Wednesday, 15 on Thursday, 32 on Friday and 33 on Saturday. My odometer now reads 3249.

Here are some pics of our ride on Saturday.

Pre-ride shot...


On the road...




On all four rides we followed many creek beds...


The upside to climbing western PA hills is the sloping gentle descents...


Odometer shot...


Dad assumes his post-ride position...



After all four rides we went out with the whole family to Penn Brewery. Two tall Penn Weizens treated me just right!

Wednesday, November 22, 2006

Hilly riding in Pittsburgh

I am home for Thanksgiving now and I got out on a 20 mile ride today with my dad. The hills make racking up the miles harder, but I really like the change of pace and the change of scenery.

My odometer now reads 3166.

Sunday, November 19, 2006

Mileage update

Yes, I have been terrible and posting my rides lately. But that does not mean I haven't been riding.

I am still on track to reach my New Year's goal of 3500 miles. I have been riding on average 4 times a week which has been especially challenging these last few weeks as work has been incredibly busy.

I went out on Friday for a 20 miler and then did a 25 miler yesterday with my buddy Jeff. Today I cut my ride short at 13 miles only to get back in time to watch the Browns drop a heartbreaking loss to the much despised Steelers...sigh.

So as we head into the Holiday season my odometer reads 3146 miles. 354 miles to go. That means I need to average around 9 miles a day for the rest of the year. Completely do-able.

Sunday, October 22, 2006

Sunday ride stats


It was a bit chillier today than yesterday, and definitely more blustery. Winter's coming soon...ugh.

I did a lot of city riding today. I rode down H street to try to spot some of the new bars and restaurants people have been talking about...I found the Pug, the Rock and Roll Hotel, Red and Black and Palace of Wonders. All are new H street bars that the owner hopes help revitalize the H street corridor.

I hope they do, considering they are all blocks from my new house.

The guy who opened these bars also has opened the Argonaut (pictured above before renovation) which seems like a place that I would frequent. He plans to open four more bars/restaurants on the H street corridor.

More pics of the future and current homes of these H street establishments...

Stats:
23.21 miles
14.8 mph
Max 26.7 mph
1 hr 35 mins
Odometer 2814

Saturday, October 21, 2006

Not many days like this left


It was a beautiful Saturday here in the nation's capital. It was warm, -- 64 degrees -- sunny and calm. This weekend is the calm before the storm so to speak in the Chapman household. Liz and I close on our first house on Monday. After that, many of the available extra hours next week will be spent getting the apartment in the basement ready to rent and nailing down other loose ends. So I appreciate the weather and the opportunity for nice rides this weekend (hopefully the rain holds off tomorrow.

I had intended to ride down to Mt. Vernon and back today but when I got halfway there the trail had been closed for renovations. I had to reroute and finish my ride with some laps at Haines Point.

Stats:
34.33 miles

Avg. 15.2

2 hrs 15 mins

Odometer 2191

NOTE: Above phote courtesy of this flickr user. He has plenty more great snaps of the DC area.

Monday, October 16, 2006

8 straight days

I have been lazy about posting my rides, but that doesn't mean I am not riding. Today was my eighth day in a row to ride. I have not had time for long rides with work, but at least I am not falling behind on the miles. Today's ride was 23 miles.

23.4 miles
Avg 15.2
Max 27
1 hr 32 mins
Odometer 2738

Less than 800 miles...

Wednesday, October 11, 2006

Ride update

I haven't posted my last couple rides, things have been pretty busy here. I got out today for 21 miles, putting me at 2643 total. 957 miles to go in just over two and a half months. This will be tough...I am going to go buy some new winter gear this weekend.

My rides this week have been weak. On Saturday I played in the alumni lacrosse game at Gordon's homecoming. I got the crap beat out of me and my legs still have not recovered, although today's ride I was finally able to climb out of the saddle.

I rode laps today down at Haines. It was still, brisk and overcast. Soon it will be all those things plus freezing cold.

Ride stats:
21.42 miles
15.8 mph
1 hr 21 mins
Odometer 2643

Tuesday, October 03, 2006

Monday ride

I got out on Sunday for a quick 17 miler and then Monday for 25.

The fact that we recently went under contract on our first home has made time for riding sparse.


Monday ride stats:

25.45 miles
Avg 16.5
Max 27
1 hr 32 mins
Odometer 2567

Sunday, October 01, 2006

The last 1000

Yesterday I passed mile 2500, meaning I have a little less than 1000 miles to go over the next three months.

Giddyup...

Saturday ride states (I lost the stats for Thurs and Fri):
24.05 miles
Avg 15
1 hr 39 mins
Odometer 2524

Monday, September 25, 2006

Monday ride stats

Today was a gorgeous afternoon, so I headed out a little early for a ride. There won't be too many of these left...the cold temps are closing in.

22.31 miles
Avg. 16.8 mph
Max 30 mph
1 hr 19 mins
Cad 73
Odometer 2467

Sunday, September 24, 2006

Weekend rides -- update


I rode Friday, Saturday and Sunday...Friday's ride was short, Saturday I rode nearly 30 miles and today James and I went out for a 20 miler.

My odometer right now reads 2444. I figure I will be right around 2500 miles at the end of September.

That means to make my goal I need to ride 1000 miles in October, November and December. 333 miles a month should be no problem -- but I am going to have to ride in the cold.

Friday, September 22, 2006

Tuesday and Thursday rides

On Tuesday I rode a quick 16 mile ride after work...not much to write about.

Yesterday I got out for a longer ride and even worked in a couple laps at Haines with the local cycling teams.

Thursday ride stats:
25.16 miles
Avg 18mph
Max 32
1 hr 24 mins
Odometer 2383

Sunday, September 17, 2006

Sunday ride

I didnt get a chance to post all my rides last week, but as you can see on the odometer I have actually been riding.

Today I went out with Liz for a leisurely ride through the city. We went up to the cathedral and then down to Haines Point. It was 80 degrees and sunny -- a welcome development after a week of rain and chilly temps.

18.91 miles
1 hr 28 mins
Odometer2342

Saturday, September 09, 2006

Weekday rides

I got out for two 20 mile rides on Wed and Thurs. I am about to go out for a longer one today. Here are the stats from Thursday's ride.

22.21 miles
Avg 19.3
Max 35
1 hr 9 mins
Cad 65
Odo 2207

Tuesday, September 05, 2006

Weekend rides in the city


I rode on Saturday and Sunday this weekend...both rides took advantage of the empty city streets (Houses in Dupont Circle above...we rode through the area twice on the ride). On Sat. I rode alone, on Sun. James was my riding partner.

Saturday Stats:
29.96 miles
Avg 15.6

Max 25.9

1 hr 55 mins

Cad 65

Sunday Stats:

32.15 miles

Avg. 14.5 (we did a lot of touring, lots of stop and go)

Max 30.4
2 hrs 12 mins
Cad 60
Odometer 2166

Saturday, September 02, 2006

Saturday evening ride

Liz and I were stuck spending the whole day checking in the fall semester's crop of interns, so I had little time to ride. I got out at around 6:00 for a little less than an hour. It was gorgeous out -- the remnants of Hurricane Earnesto had left the area only hours before I rode leaving the sky scattered with low hanging clouds and a chill in the air. Not a soul was down at Haines Point...I had it all to myself.

Stats:
16.31 miles
Avg 17.7
Max 27.1
55 mins
Cad 76
Odometer 2104

Thursday, August 31, 2006

Lunch break ride

I got a quick ride in today at lunch time. It was really windy out and unseasonably cool (low 70s).

Stats:
14.95 miles
Avg 17.4
52 mins
Cad 76
Odometer 2087

Tuesday ride stats

18.26 miles
Avg 14.4
1 hr 16 mins
Odometer 2072

Monday, August 28, 2006

Weekend rides

On Friday I went out for a leisurely afternoon ride with Liz. We covered 16 miles down along the tidal basin.

On Sunday James and I went on a longer ride touring much of the city and then riding up to Bethesda. Stats below:

42.7 miles
Avg 16.4
2 hrs 36 mins
Cad 67
Odometer 2054

Friday, August 25, 2006

Multiple ride posts

I have been lazy posting my rides this week.

I rode Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

Tuesday:
15.76 miles
15.8 Avg

Wednesday:
23.23 Miles (W/ James)
Avg. 16.4

Thursday night group ride at Haines:
19.49 miles
Avg 17.7
Max 33.6 (on a sprint)
1 hr 6 mins
Cad 65
Odometer 1995

Tuesday, August 22, 2006

Morning ride around the Tidal Basin etc.

Woke up early Monday morning and went for a ride at Haines Point also took some of the roads I am not familiar with to get around the tidal basin. The weather was great almost a little chilly first thing in the morning and there weren't very many people out on bikes. My 3 laps turned into 4 laps though as I was determined to catch the guy in front of me. Wind was in the face on the back side of the point unlike the previous day.

Stats:
22.1 miles
1:22:18
Max 24.9
15.5 avg
Odometer:1,001.06

Sunday, August 20, 2006

Putzing around DC

I didn't feel like riding one of my regular routes today, so I tried something different. I started by riding 3 miles east on Pennsylvania Avenue...at about the 3rd mile I realized it was getting to be a pretty sketchy neighborhood so I turned around and headed back into DC.

I took Mass Ave. all the was through the city. The traffic was sparse because it is Sunday so this was much more enjoyable than you may think. I enjoyed riding through embassy row until my legs began to realize I had been going steadily uphill since 21st St.

It's avout a 2 mile hill all the way up to the Cathedral. When I got to the top I rewarded myself by sitting in one of the gardens at the cathedral and finishing a water bottle.


(These are pics I took when we went to the Cathedral last year)


From there I headed back down Mass Ave. and then down 21st to Constitution where I picked up 14th and finished my ride with a couple laps at Haines Point.

It wasn't a fast ride. But it was fun to putz around DC and see some of the sights that I too often take for granted.

Stats:
23.99 Miles
Avg 14.6
Max 31
1 hr 39 mins
Cad 60
Odometer 1937

Finding My Way Around

I wasnt really feeling up to putting in long miles so I cruised around my corner of the district. Looked for a gym found some streets I probably won't go back on and saw some beautiful neighborhoods.

Stats:
Miles 9.4
Odometer: 978.96
All of the other stats don't really matter for this one.

Saturday, August 19, 2006

Saturday ride

Jesse, James and I all rode together Saturday afternoon...stats:

25.71 miles
Avg 16.3

First Official Ride as a DC Resident

Tim, Jesse and I got out for nice ride and a few short sprints at Haines Point.

Stats
26.0 miles
16.3 avg
Odometer:969.56

Thursday, August 17, 2006

What is the DC park service thinking?


Every night after work hundreds of DC area people head down to Haines Point to exercise. Thursday night in particular the volume picks up because tons of riders go down there for a group ride.

Tonight's group ride stunk. The park service turn on all the sprinklers (which are more like firehoses with heavy pressure) and doused the track. Hence, the ride was foiled.

Nevertheless, I rode on my own and logged some miles.

Stats:
28.97 miles

Avg 17

1 hr 42 mins
Cad 64
Odometer 1886

Wednesday, August 16, 2006

Wednesday ride stats

I waited for it to cool down today and headed out for a ride a little after 6:00. I rode down to Old Town on this breezy and sometimes blustery evening. Getting out of the city tonight was friggin' miserable. I got boxed in on Independence by commuter buses no less than three times -- so annoying.

Once I was over the bridge I finally began to enjoy riding. But for a while I was wishing I had stayed home and sat on my butt for the second night in a row.

I was anything but sprite today. Slow going for the most part...the only exceptions being a 2 mile stretch before OLD Town in which a rider drafted off me (I felt I needed to save face and give him a good ride so I kicked it up to 19 mph) and a three mile loop at Haines in which one of the fast horses who regularly rides down there sprinted past me (I used it as an opportunity to get a free ride and up my avg mph).

Stats:
22.45 mph
Avg 16.4
Max 24.9
1 hr 22 mins
Cad 68
Odometer 1857

NOTE: My colleague Mike today asked me if I was interested in riding a century with him next week. I couldn't say no, so it looks like my first century ride is imminent. Should be interesting.

Tuesday, August 15, 2006

Monday ride stats

I went down to Haines Point to log some miles after work last night. I rode a couple laps with a guy I have seen down there multiple times. His name was Daniel...nice enough guy and good rider. Nevermind the fact that he and I probably dont see eye to eye on any matter of politics. I listened to him talk about Iran and how "f-ing crazy" Ahmadinejad is. I agreed wholeheartedly until he described George W Bush as "just as insane" and then proceeded to launch into an argument of moral equivalency that would make any liberal from academia blush.

Oh well, he helped me keep a good pace (and he seemed like an otherwise nice guy).

Maybe next time I ride with him I will tell him how misguided I think those views are. But somehow, I suspect he wont be convinced.

Stats:
16.75 miles
Avg 17.1
58 mins
Cad 75
Odometer 1835

Monday, August 14, 2006

Final Pittsburgh ride



Dad and I got out for a short ride on Sunday afternoon. Both of us were exhausted from the weekend's festivities.

Stats:
15.3 miles
Avg 15.2

I am now back in DC where the hills are few and far between.

Sunday, August 13, 2006

Two Pittsburgh rides

I rode twice in the Pittsburgh hills so far. I am keeping good pace through the hills, but don't have time to ride too long.

The first ride was very hilly:
16.22 miles
17.7 Avg

The second ride was with Dad and not quite as hilly:
14.54 miles
17.1 Avg

Wednesday, August 09, 2006

Wednesday ride

Stats:
16.48 miles
Avg 16.9
58 mins
Cad 72
Odometer 1771

Tuesday, August 08, 2006

Tuesday ride

Stats:
26.82 miles
Avg 18.3
Max 26
1 hr 27 mins
Cad 77
Odometer 1755

Monday ride

SHort and quick...

Stats:
15.77 miles
Avg 17.5
Max 28
54 mins
Cad 73
Odometer 1728

Sunday, August 06, 2006

Back in the swing of things

After relaxing most of last week in the Outer Banks it is time to get back in the saddle. Today, James and I rode the VA loop plus a few laps down at Haines Point.

It was a gorgeous day for a ride...mid 80's, calm and no humidity.

Stats:
31.96 miles
Avg 17.1
Max 35.9
1 hr 52 mins
Cad 70

Catch up on posts

Its been a while since I've put up my ride stats so here goes a run down of recent trips.

First OBX ride with Tim and Jesse:

Stats:
21.66 miles
Avg 19.9
1 hr 5 mins
Odometer: 836.2

Second OBX ride with Tim:

Stats:
18.44 miles
Avg 19
Mx 30
58 mins
Odometer: 881.6

OBX Recovery Ride with Tim in DC:

Stats:
31.96 miles
Avg 17.1
Max 35.9
1 hr 52 mins
Cad 70
Odometer: 913.56

Bought the wife a new bike so we rode together:

Miles: 13.6
Avg. 13.2
Odometer: 927.16

Can't be in the saddle much due to sickness but I gave it a try:

Stats:
16.4 miles
Avg 16.1
1:12:33 mins
Odometer: 943.56

Wednesday, August 02, 2006

When riding isn't any fun

We thought we would ride a lot more than we have down here in the Outer Banks, but the weather has been prohibitive. 100 plus degree temps combined with steady 15 mph winds makes riding tough.

Today we got out for 18 miles, but it was more like a chore than a nice ride.

Stats:
18.44 miles
Avg 19
Mx 30
58 mins
Cad 75

Sunday, July 30, 2006

OBX ride




First ride on the outer banks...it was fun riding with three guys...we kept a good pace.

Stats:
21.66 miles
Avg 19.9
1 hr 5 mins
Cad 75
Odometer 1661

Thursday, July 27, 2006

Haines Point with Tim

Tim's been talking about the infamous Hanes Point Ride for a while now and tonight I experienced it first hand. It was an excellent workout. We did 5 loops and I got dropped twice. It definately takes a little practice to get used to riding with a group and to keep the pace up. Those guys are really good.

Stats:
Max 30.6
17.9 Avg.
28.3 miles
Time: 1:36:42
Odometer: 841.5

Thursday morning and night rides

Thursday morning I went on a ride with Mike from work.

Stats:
33.9 miles
Avg 16.8
2 hrs 1 min
Cad 75

After work I went out with James and rode the Thursday night ride at Haines...60-plus mile day...not bad.

Stats:
28.53 miles
Avg 18.1
1 hr 34 mins
Cadence 70
Odometer 1640

Wednesday, July 26, 2006

Getting ready for Thursday

Tomorrow I plan a 40 miler before work and then at least 25 after so I wanted to make sure I took it easy tonight.

Stats:
16.38 miles
Avg 16.4
Max 26.3
1 hr
Avg Cad 75
Odometer 1577

Tuesday, July 25, 2006

Bike Shop Ride

I rode to the bike shop from work today to get it checked out in preparation for the OBX rides down Rt. 12.
Stats:
23.8 miles
31.8 max
15.3 avg.
1:26:07
Odometer: 813.2

Monday, July 24, 2006

Finally a Ride

I thought I may go insane this weekend. Apart from the work at my job, the weather was beautiful and I couldn't get out to log some miles. Finally I did:

Stats
Trip 38.8
2:34:07
Max. 32.9 ( I was steaming down the road headed for 33-34 when I see a deer in the middle of the road staring me down...needless to say I let him win and I hit the brakes.)
Avg. 15.1
Odometer 789.4

A quick after work ride

I didn't have much time after work today, so I tried to keep the tempo up to get exercise.

Stats:
16.2 miles
Avg 17.7
54 mins
Avg Cad 79
Max 31
Odometer 1561

Sunday, July 23, 2006

Rounding out the weekend

Another day riding with other people...makes life much easier. Liz and Jesse came with me again...we dropped Liz off at Haines Point so she could do her own pace on the flats and Jesse and I rode the VA loop.

Liz ended up riding a 26 miles...Jesse and I a tad more.

Stats
27.44 miles
Avg 14.5
1 hr 54 mins
Avg cad 66
Odometer 1544

Saturday ride stats

I went on a leisurely afternoon ride Satruday with Liz and Jesse. We rode along the tidal basin for a little over 20 miles. Our ride ended 10 minutes before a huge thunderstorm rolled in.

Jesse road Dad's old Jamis Quest which he is considering buying. The frame may be a bit big but we adjusted the seat to fit Jesse. He liked the ride -- seems to be working well.

Stats
22.76 miles
Avg 14.9
1 hr 32 mins
Avg Cad 70
Odometer: 1517

Thursday, July 20, 2006

Thursday night pacelining at Haines


A decent sized group showed up tonight. For some reason they were freaking bookin' it tonight. I definitely struggled to stay with the group but managed to do so for the better part of 4 laps.

Troubling development: my left knee which has been hurting a bit lately was aching and popping a bit as I turned the crank. I rode through it but things like that make me nervous...it is good that I am taking tomorrow off while I travel to North Carolina.

Stats: 27.9 miles
Avg 18.4

Max 35.7 (on a flat during a group sprint)

1 hr 31 mins

Avg Cad 71

Odometer 1494

Wednesday, July 19, 2006

Wednesday ride

The heat let up a little today. The heat index only reached 99 degrees, compared to the 105 and 104 of the last two days.

I headed out for a ride at around 5:30. I went to Old Town and then came back to ride two laps at Haines Point. I felt pretty darn good on the bike tonight. I could have gone longer and probably should have but I wanted to save myself for tomorrow nights group ride at Haines Point.

Also, my bike is shifting much better since I took it to the wrenches over at Capitol Hill Bikes the other day. They know their stuff.

Stats:
25.54 miles
Avg 16.4
Max 26
1 hr 34 mins
Avg Cad 76 (I ride right around 90 but apparently I coast a lot)
Odometer: 1466

Tuesday, July 18, 2006

It is still hot out

Today's heat index reached 106 degrees! I waited to ride until late -- after 7:00. I didn't ride long, too hot.

Stats:
13.8 miles
Avg 16.5
50 mins
Avg Cad 78
Odometer 1441

Sunday, July 16, 2006

It is friggin' hot!


The temps topped 98 degrees today...and I decided to ride anyway. Arghh...sometimes having a 3500 mile resolution hanging over your head is rough.

I woke up at 5:00 am today...but not to ride. I played golf out at Rasberry Falls (above). We had the first tee time and flew around the course in 4 hrs. I shot a 90 -- not bad on a tough course like that.

After I got home, I ate and then headed out. The heat, like yesterday, was unbearable, so I cut it short.

Stats:
16.97 miles
16.9
1 hr
Avg Cad 79
Odometer 1427

Saturday, July 15, 2006

I agree with Tim

The ride was blistering hot and humid. I left the house at 5:45 though so eventually it began to cool off. I finished The Mayflower book on tape and am now on, The Endurance, the true story of how Sir Earnest Shakelton led his stranded men to safety after 24 months in the Antartic. Very interesting although I must say the guy who reads the book sounds like he is using a fake English accent.
Here are the stats:

Time: 2:00:58
Max. 31.9
Avg. 14.9
Trip: 30.1
Odometer: 703.3

Friday Ride:

I deleted my computer stats for the ride...all I know is I rode 47.3 miles

Odometer: 750.6

90 percent humidity sucks

Ugh...my legs are still sore from my 60 plus mile day on Thursday. I thought they would be fine but when I got out today they were dead. Plus it was 93 degrees with 90 percent humidity. I finished my bottle of water within a half hour...ugh, gross.

I labored to ride 22 miles today. I am glad it was over. I might take a day off tomorrow. Ok, I am done whining.

On the flip side, this week was my most successful riding week yet as determined by mileage: I tallied 157 miles.

Stats:
22.16 miles
Avg 14.4
1 hr 32 mins
Avg Cad 71
Odometer 1410

Thursday, July 13, 2006

To Mt Vernon and back (before work)


I rode down to Mt. Vernon this morning with a friend from work. It was interesting to pay attention to my cadence on my new computer. I have never thought much about it before.

We got hit with rain on the way back but overall the ride was a pleasure.

Stats:
39 miles
Avg 16 mph
2 hrs 27 mins
Avg Cad 71 rpm
Max 28.4
Odometer 1363

UPDATE: After work I rode 25 miles...not exactly sure why, but I did. My total on the Odometer is now 1388.

Wednesday, July 12, 2006

4 miles is 4 miles

I rode to the bike store in a deluge of rain after work to buy a new computer for my bike.

Stats:
4 miles
Odometer 1324

Cycling between the rain drops

I squeezed in a quick ride after a thunderstorm.

Here are the Stats:
15.4 miles
Time: 1:00:08
Max. 24.7
Avg. 15.3
Odometer 673.2

Tuesday, July 11, 2006

Early morning ride


Liz woke up early today to work out -- around 6:30. She left the house and I couldn't go back to sleep so I figured I would make use of my new found time.

I went out for an hour and did the same ride I did Saturday so I would know the mileage (computer is still busted). The pic above is one of the boats I see off to my left most days when I ride Haines.

Stats:
16.5 miles

1 hr 2 mins

Avg 16.2ish

Odometer: 1320

Monday, July 10, 2006

Monday ride stats

My computer ran out of batteries after 1 mile today so I don't have any stats...fortunately, I know how far I went because I do the ride all the time.

5 laps at Haines

Stats:
26.6 miles
Odometer 1304

Sunday, July 09, 2006

Tim's Sunday ride

I went out this morning after breakfast for a ride. I didn't have much time to ride because of plans this afternoon so I went to Haines to crank out some laps. As I was making the rounds I was overtaken by a group ride -- all the riders hat Capitol Hill Bike jerseys on. I sped up and rode one lap with them and talked to one of the guys. They said they have group rides Saturday and Sunday morning that leave from their shop on the Hill. That is great for me -- very close. They seemed like good riders and nice guys so I am going to start joining some of those rides. It will help with the miles.

Stats:
23.7 miles
1 hr 29 mins
Avg 15.9
Max 27
Odometer 1277

Sunday Ride

Today, I just rode around my neighborhood to log the mileage and then onto the YMCA for a 3 mile run.
Stats:
26.4 Miles
Time 1:51:34
Max 36.6
Avg. 14.2
Odometer: 657.8

Saturday, July 08, 2006

Riding until the cows come home















The past couple of rides have involved some unusual run ins with the animal kingdom. Today, at mile 23, I had to stop my bike to let the jersey cows cross the road. What was more amazing than having to stop for the crossing was the fact that in a short 2 minutes or so I watched as cow after cow pummeled the road ahead with certain "obstacles".

On Wednesday's ride, I failed to mention that I was nearly impaled by a velvet 6 point buck running across a soybean field. Out of the corner of my eye I saw something moving quickly across the field and this buck was sprinting and not looking in either direction. I slammed on my brakes and actually waved down the minivan coming the option direction which didnt see him. The deer just flew across in front of mye and the minivan, never looking. The driver looked at me and we both started laughing. These are things I am pretty sure I won't experience when I'm in DC.

This week's ride mileage comes to 123.4, and if I want to make 3500 that's about the pace I need to keep.

Here are todays Stats:
Trip: 31.3
Time: 2:04:32
Max 31.4
Avg. 15.0
Odometer 631.4

Saturday ride stats

I went out for a quick ride today...I am busy this afternoon so I didn't have a lot of time. The goal was to make sure I eclipsed the 100 mile mark for the week to keep my streak of 6 weeks in a row alive.

Three laps at Haines Point...

Stats
16.5 miles
1 hr 1 min
Avg 16.1
Max 23
Odometer 1254

Friday, July 07, 2006

Friday ride stats

I rode the VA loop this evening. My legs are tired from last night and the drivetrain on my bike is all jacked up...not the best ride. I am going to take my bike in for a tune up tomorrow.

Stats:
23 miles
1 hr 36 mins
Avg 14.4
Max 36
Odometer 1237

Ride stats

Thursday night ride at Haines Point...paceline all the way around.

Stats:
25.6 Miles
1 hr 14 mins
Avg 19.6
Max 32
Odometer 1214

Wednesday, July 05, 2006

I think I need a rest day tomorrow

Finally, it didn't rain as soon as I got off work so I could get a ride in. In preparation for this weeks cycling I downloaded the book The Mayflower by Nathaniel Philbrick. As of right now the Separatists, as they were called, have just been attacked by indians and are forced to flee in a small boat back to their encampment.
Today's ride was very light since its my third consecutive day of 20+ mile rides and I ran 5 miles before I got the bike. I'm pretty sure tomorrow I will kick back a couple beers and not be in the saddle.

Stats:
20.5 miles
Time: 1:23:45
Max. 33.1
Avg. 14.6
Odometer: 600.6

Tuesday, July 04, 2006

Ride stats for fourth of July weekend

This past weekend Liz and I went up to the Poconos in PA to spend a couple days with her family. I managed to get some riding in, but not as many miles as I would have hoped.

As it turns out, I am not in hill-riding shape! The hilly terrain wiped me out, and over the course of the four days I only managed around 60 miles.

These stats are for the total four rides:







59.3 miles

4 hrs 10 mins
Avg 14.6
Max 42 (the upside to hilly terrain)
Odometer 1190

A long hot ride

Today I got for a nice ride. I left the house around 10:30 so I knew it was going to be hot at some point. The temperature started at a nice 88 degrees with a slight breeze by about 28 miles into the mercury topped 97. Luckily, there were lots of riders out today so it was pretty easy to stay motivated and log as many miles as possible. True to form, I started to leave around 9:00 but because of my permanent state of easy distraction I didn't actually leave for an hour and half (Cynda regularly claims I am the slowest person on earth and I can't say I disagree.).
My play list for the day included a sermon on Grace which was very good and a playlist I put together a couple weeks ago for a ride I never took because of the sprain. Its nice to be out on the bike with your thoughts and prayers and today was no exception. My legs felt really good and I wanted to complete a 50 miler but today is Cynda's b-day and I knew she was expecting me home about an hour earlier than I got home so I relented and did what I could.

Stats:
43.3 miles
Time 2:53:07
Max. 36.9
Avg. 14.9
Odometer: 580.1

Monday, July 03, 2006

Kinda like George Hincapie...

except not even close. OK I am finally back to riding again. I re-sprained my ankle which is not fun, especially since I couldnt get the swelling to go down. All in all though my first ride back in the saddle was great(after a nearly two week hiatus). I was tempted to go for 50 but knew if I did Cynda wouldn't be particularly happy with me given we had dinner at 7:30. I haven't posted in a while so he is a recap of what occurred over the last few weeks. This second injury really put me at a handicap for making this 3500 but I will give it my best.

RECAP:

Stats:
14.9 miles
1 Hour
Avg 15
Max 26.2
Odometer:411.4

Stats
50.6 miles
3 hrs 36 mins
Avg. 14.1
Max 37
Odometer: 462

Stats:
13.3 miles
Time: 56:45
Avg. 14.4
Max 33.8
Odometer: 475.3

Stats:
11.0 miles
47:55
Avg. 13.7
Max 38.4(I think this is the fastest I have ridden on a bike pretty exhilarating and a little scary)
Odometer: 486.3

Stats:
22.2 miles
1:13:06
Avg. 14.9
Max 31.2
Odometer: 508.5

Stats:
28.3 miles
1:49:11
Avg. 15.5
Max 34.9
Odometer: 536.8

Friday, June 30, 2006

Short ride...

I went out for a short ride after work just to ensure I had 100 miles for the week under my belt before tomorrow (in case for some reason in the travel to the Poconos tomorrow morning I end up with no time to ride).

Stats:
12.8 miles
53 mins
Avg 14.2
Max 23
Odometer 1131

My legs are beat...not sure why, but I had no energy.

Thursday, June 29, 2006

Early morning ride


I met a co-worker of mine this morning at 6:45 a.m. for an early pre-work ride. Our route was down the Mt. Vernon trail all the way to the first President's estate and then back again.

At mile 8 we were turning a corner on a wooden bridge at about 18 mph, I was in the lead with Mike closely behind. As I turned the corner I didn't see the very wet patch of wood in front of me. Next thing I know my bike is sliding out from under me and I am violently crashing into the ground. I was so disoriented that I didn't even realize Mike had crashed too. We both laid there in the middle of the path for about 30 seconds just moaning. Then we slowly got up, dusted ourselves off, checked out our bikes (which miraculously were unharmed save a few dings) and then got back on the way. I have a few bumps and bruises but I am fine.

I told Mike I wish I had video of that spill, because it would not doubt be hillarious!

Stats:
37.4 mph
2 hrs 35 mins

Avg 14.4
Max 25.3

Odometer 1118

Wednesday, June 28, 2006

The roads are a mess

After days of monsoon-like rain, the weather finally let up. I was able to get out this evening for a decent ride. All along the Potomac the land was swampy and the bog like smell was putrid. The Potomac itself was high and very brown. It was a mess from the weather.

Stats:
31 miles
1 hr 56 mins
Avg 15.5 mph
Max 29 mph
Odometer: 1080

Tuesday, June 27, 2006

Sunday, June 25, 2006

A steamy twenty


(View of the Washington monument from Haines Point loop)

There was a brief break in the deluge of rain this afternoon that I was able to take advantage of. I went down to Haines Point to do 4 laps in the super thick humidity...as I was riding a 50 year old (my guess) woman passed me on the left at a good speed. She then slowed down and asked if I could draft for a minute and tell her how fast she was going (her bike was a brand new Cervelo time trial bike and she hadn't installed a computer on yet). I obliged as she proceeded to speed up to a 27 mph pace for almost a mile.

Wow!

She then slowed down a few ticks and I felt that I had to save some face -- I pulled up beside her to comment her on her pace as I tried to hide the fact that I was pretty dang winded.

We rode the next 2 miles together and she told me about a couple group rides that I should participate in around the area. This one that she recommended looks promising...and according to this speedy woman, "they will slow down every 10 miles or so to let the people who get dropped catch up." I assume she recognized that that may likely be me...hahaha. Apparently the ride is hilly though, but according to my brief riding partner today, "hills are the only way to get stronger."

Stats:
20.5 miles
1 hr 15 mins
Avg 16.2
Max 29.3
Odometer 1050

Saturday, June 24, 2006

Sorry excuse for a ride

I had planned on doing a 65 miler today, but the east coast is getting socked with rain. I managed only 11 miles...but at least its mileage.

Stats:
11.2 miles
46 mins
Avg 14.5
Max 28.4
Odometer 1030

Friday, June 23, 2006

No energy at all...but I broke 1000 (finally)

I went out on a ride after work today. I wanted to try to crank out a lot of miles because the weather is threatening to nix weekend riding plans. But, I had no energy. My legs were pretty burned from sprinting down at Haines Point last night.

It was kind of cool towards the end of my ride. I was on the Potomac and a summer storm was rolling in. There wasn't a soul out there but me...almost eerily quiet save the wind wipping in the storm clouds.

Stats:
21.4 miles
1 hr 31 mins
Avg 14.1
Max 25.7
Odometer 1018

Thursday, June 22, 2006

28 miles

This evening I went down to Haines Point and rode laps with a group of about 50 riders...great exercise with the sprints on the backside of the loop.

Stats:
27.5 miles
1 hr 34 mins
Avg 17.5
Max 33.8 (on the flats in the group)
Odometer 997

Tuesday, June 20, 2006

Tuesday ride


It was super hot today, and friggin windy...ugh. I did get out for a 20 mile ride though.

Stats:
20.1 miles
1 hr 22 mins
Avg 14.6
Max 26.1
Odometer 969

Sunday, June 18, 2006

Quick ride -- done in time for the US Open

I was going to ride another long one today, but there was just too much good stuff on tv. I watched Brazil whoop up on Australia today and then I headed out on a shorter ride because I wanted to be home to watch the end of the US Open -- which, incidentally, is being broadcast in pristine HD tv right now. At this point, Mickelson has a 2 stroke lead with 4 to play.

My ride this afternoon was different. I rode 4 laps at Haines Point and then went to Old Towne. After that I rode over to Virginia and met Liz and her friend's pool. The dip felt nice after riding in 95 degree weather.

Stats:
26.1 miles

1 hr 45 mins
Avg 14.8
MAX 33.9
Odometer 949

UPDATE: Mickelson choked...double bogey on 18 to lose the championship.

Saturday, June 17, 2006

Saturday ride

I was down with a miserable cold and fever on Thursday and Friday so I couldn't ride. I had to make up for it today. I rode down to Mt. Vernon and back and then finished off a 50 miler down at Haines Point.

Stats:
50.5 miles
3 hrs 26 mins
Avg 14.6
Max 27.1
Odometer: 923

Wednesday, June 14, 2006

Riding sick -- Stats Roundup

I felt miserable all day today...sore throat, sniffles, throbbing head and general lack of energy. I didn't think I would get out for a ride tonight. But when I came home from work around 6:00 I realized I couldn't spend the entire evening in front a computer screen. I had already done that all day working on my column for tomorrow.

I decided to go out for a ride open this balmy, generally gross night.

16 miles is 16 miles. It was the product of three laborious laps at Haines...ugh.

Stats:
15.9 miles
Avg 15.9
1 hr
Max 29
Odometer 872

That puts me at 84 miles for the week with Thursday, Friday and Saturday rides coming up.

Footnote: Here are some monthly stats (I rounded up so this is a few miles over)...

June (so far): 226
May: 142
April: 219
March: 83
February: 43
January: 172

Two thoughts:
1 - Good for me in January given the temps.
2 - Bad for me pretty much every other month, especially May. It was that dang 3 day Memorial Weekend full of beer, char-grilled meat and NCAA lacrosse.

Monday, June 12, 2006

5 days in a row

I followed up on yesterday's mammoth ride with a leisurely ride with Liz after work. The slow pace was needed to wake my legs back up.

Stats:
18.1 miles
1 hr 19 mins
AVG 13.7

Max 26
Odometer: 856

Sunday, June 11, 2006

A half century


James and I hit the trails today determined to ride 50 miles...we did. At mile 25 I was in trouble. Maybe it was the beer from the night before or the general lack of sleep from a busy weekend but I was hurting. We stopped and refueled with gummy bears and power bars. After that, I was good to go. In fact, I was riding with more energy on mile 45 than I was on mile 5.

We did the VA loop starting from Capitol Hill and then took the Capital Crescent trail (above) north to Bethesda. We finished off our 50 by completing three laps down at Haines Point. Next up is a 75 miler. After that, the century.

stats
50.6 miles
3 hrs 36 mins
AVG 14.1

Max 37
Odometer: 838

Saturday, June 10, 2006

100 mile week

Got out for a brief ride yesterday with Meffen. The ride was enough to put me over the 100 miles mark for the week.

Stats:
14.9 miles
1 Hour
Avg 15
Max 26.2
Odometer 786

Friday, June 09, 2006

On pace for a decent week

This afternoon I rode to Old Town and back. The 18 mile trip was slow going, as I was still a litle tired from last night's sprints and I didn't want to wear myself out for tomorrow's ride. Including today's ride I have 85 miles under my belt this week with one ride to go.

To attain 3500 I am gonna need to start stringing successive weeks like this together.

Stats:
17.7 miles
1 hr 13 mins
Avg: 14.5
Max: 29
Odometer: 771

Thursday, June 08, 2006

Thursday night ride at Haines Point

I headed down to Haines Point after work to join the other riders who congregate there every Thursday night. We had a group of about 50 riders cranking out laps. I rode 5 laps with the group and unlike last week I did not get bounced. I was sure to keep a wheel the whole way around so as not to get dropped. Granted, I was not leading the group at all but hey...I am still a newbie.

Stats:
25.7 miles
1hr 29 mins
Avg: 17.4 (21 on the laps)
Max 32 (on the flats at Haines Point)
Odometer: 754

This was a great workout...I plan to ride enough over the next two days to make this a 100 mile week.

Monday, June 05, 2006

Monday ride

I hit up Haines Point tonight for an after work workout.

Ride stats:
18.7 miles
1 hr 12 mins
Avg 15.5
Max 29
Odometer 728

Sunday, June 04, 2006

The Pentecost Ride

Being that today is Pentecost I decided I would try for a half century ride. Actually, that's not true I was planning on riding today but it had nothing to do with the Liturgical Calendar and I didn't decide to do 50 until I was already in the saddle.

I did however plug in a couple sermons into the ipod on the gift of spirit and mixed them with a little radiohead and lo and behold I got through it; although at one point it looked like it was threatening to storm on me and I had to think how tragically comedic it would be if I were struck by lightening while listening to Mark's Gospel describing the descent of fiery tongues on the apostles. Yes, that is strange thought.

The ride was very excruciating(as I type this I am icing my quads); At about mile 38 I had to overcome the psychology of the half century. My mind was telling me I couldn't do it and I would end up in a ditch passed out if I tried it. Being the moron I am I disagreed and pressed on. At about mile 42 I was out of sports drink and had no goo. Luckily, I happened passed a little country store and got some gatorade and gummy bears. This took me through 50 pretty easily although my body was none too pleased by what I had done to it.

Overall, this was a great ride. I realized while I was out on the country roads that I will miss this area and the people. Fortunately, I know that we will be trading in this place for a new place with a new set of experiences and people to enrich our lives. That doesn't mean I won't miss living in the country...

Stats

Distance: 51.1
Time: 3:13:42
Max: 33.9 (Wasn't paying attention where this occurred)
Avg: 15.7 (Actually got faster by .2 in the last 10 miles)
Odometer: 396.5

One fifth of the way there


Last night we went out with some friends and didn't end up getting in till 3:30 in the morning. As a result, I was in no mood to ride today...but I went out anyway.

It was a breezy sometimes gusty day. I rode the VA loop so half the time the wind made life miserable.

Also today on the ride I surpassed the 700 mile mark -- meaning I am only 1/5 of the way there. Gonna have to giddyup...

Stats: 23.4 1hr 36 min Avg 14.5 Max: 40.5 (on the Custus trail parralelling 66) Odometer 709

Friday, June 02, 2006

Recovery Ride

Yesterday's sprints down at Haines Point took their toll on my legs. They felt like dead weight all day. Neverthless, I mustered the motivation to get some more miles under my belt this afternoon/evening.

After work I headed out on a ride, content to cruise slowly so as not to bonk early because of the dead weight legs. I ended up averaging a decent 15 mph -- not bad for a recovery ride. I forgot to set my computer till 1.5 miles in so the below stats will be a little bit off.

Stats:
21.8 miles
1 hr 21 mins
Avg: 15 mph
Max: 26.5
Odometer: 686

I should break the 700 mile mark tomorrow if I can find time for a ride. Liz and I have to check in THF interns from 11:00-5:00.

Thursday, June 01, 2006

Pacelining makes miles easier


So I jet out of work ten minutes early on a steamy Thursday evening to get in what I think will be the quickest of rides. A meager 10 miles -- enough to take one leg off what promises to be a mammoth weekend -- was my goal...just enough to get the blood pumping.

I get down to Haines Point intended to do one lap and go home. But to my pleasant surprise, it is the fabled Thursday ride night at Haines Point. This is the night that hundreds of DC area riders show up and ride together in a paceline that speeds past singles with ease.

I joined the paceline and averaged 23 mph over 9.6 miles -- 3 laps. Tons of fun...

Stats:

17 miles
1 hour

AVG: 17 mph

Max: 32.4 (on a flat in the paceline)

Odometer: 664

Tuesday, May 30, 2006

Weekend Purge Ride

This ride was to purge my system after a long weekend. I can't say that I was too into this excursion being that I was still have the cold sweats. I did it anyway and here are the results:

Stats

Distance: 19.4
Max: 22.8
Avg: 15.6
Time: 1:14:36
Odometer: 345.4

Friday, May 26, 2006

Catching up on posts

Last weekend I was in Pittsburgh visting family. Over the weekend my dad and I managed to get in nearly 50 miles.

Stats for the two-day ride:
46.7 miles
Avg: 15.5 (not bad given the many hills we tackled)
3 hrs 2 mins
Odometer: 630

The this morning I woke up guilty at 6:00 a.m. I haven't been out all week and I knew I wouldn't get out given the planned festivities for this weekend.

I managed a quick ride down to Haines Pt. with 3 laps and back before work.

Stats:
16 miles
1 hr 2 mins
Avg: 15.5 mph
Max 32
Odometer: 646

Thursday, May 25, 2006

Great Workout Day

Today was great for getting on the bike. I skipped out of work at lunch time and spend 45 minutes doing laps at the YMCA. Then I left work early to get a ride and some time in the gym in as well. All-in-all it was great but we'll see if I can walk tomorrow.

Stats:

Distance 18.3
Speed 14.8
Time 1:14:11
Odometer 326

Thursday, May 18, 2006

Lots Going on and the Bike Keeps Me Level

Lots o stuff happening in the Meffen household these days. What with the checks being written for school, looking at spending a small fortune to rent or own (at this point I think we will rent). And at some point in all of this Cynda and I have to move to D.C.

Wow!

We are both stressed and thankful at the same time.

The bike and certain very large hills allow me to blow off steam so I have been spending some extra time in the saddle as of late.

Here goes the

Stats:

Distance 16.1
Time 1:01:54
Max 31.3
Odometer 307.7

Wednesday, May 17, 2006

This week has had some nice riding weather

Today I decided I could sneak out a little early from work and try to hit some roads before the traffic started. It worked. The ankle is still a little iffy but after a few advil I couldn't tell the difference.

Stats:
Distance 31.9
Avg. 14.2
Time 2:14:48
Max 17.8
Odometer 291.6

Saturday, May 13, 2006

18 holes and 24 miles make a great Saturday



I woke up this morning at 5:30 to drive 40 minutes south to Westfields golf course in Virginia. It's funny how waking up at 5:30 to play golf at such an absurd hour of the morning is nearly effortless...especially compared to say, waking up at 5:30 in the morning to crank out the tps reports you were to lazy to do the day before and are due to your boss by 8:00. But I digress...

I had never been to Westfields before, and the Freddy Couples design failed to disappoint. On the contrary, the course was spectacular: challenging and playable at the same time -- not an easy task for most courses.

I bogeyed my first 7 holes then doubled 8 and 9. Heading into the turn my buddy Jeff -- who is my arch nemesis on the golf course (that bastard has beat me the last four outings) -- was one stroke up on me, and I had just tanked it on the last two holes.

After the turn, I proceeded to drop 3 mores strokes to Jeff after I bogeyed holes 10-13...but then, the magic happened.

I shot par golf on holes 14-18 to beat Jeff by two. Meaning, I shot a 39 on the back and an 86 overall.

For me, that's as close to the zone as I ever get.

Now, isn't this a cycling blog...oh yeah.

This afternoon I mustered the motivation to hit the trails knowing that Sunday called for rain and cold. I cranked out a solid 24 miles on the VA loop.

Stats:
23.6 miles
1 hr 35 mins
Avg: 14.7 mph
Max: 35.6 mph
Odometer: 582 miles

Test Ride

The most recent injury in my accident prone life is a sprained ankle. Its been a week and a half and the Doctor said I can ride so I am(staying close to home though).The weather is still great for riding. I chose to do a 4.1 mile loop and after a while it was really boring doing the same thing for 2 hours. The highlight of the course though is the huge hill climb at the turn around. By 1hr 50 minutes that last climb took all the energy I had(literally because my bottles were empty) I managed to grind up it at around 6.8 mph and 73 cadence though.

Stats:
Time: 1:58:19

Max 35.6(I swear I hit 36 for a second but the computer didn't agree)

Avg: 14.8
Miles: 29.6
Odometer: 259.7