D Rides Life

What's Next in 2009?

2009-06-02T13:49:00.001-07:00

Stay tuned for blogs on other events I'll be doing--here's some events that are coming up for me:

June 2009

LA River Ride
Disney Duathlon

July 2009

Giant for Women MTB Ride & Retreat

August 2009

Cool Breeze

October 2009

8-Day Arthritis Foundation’s California Coast Classic (sponsored by Amgen) Goes from SF to LA via the coast.

On-Going in 2009

2009-06-02T13:48:00.000-07:00

I have been spending time on the track at the Encino Velodrome with the LOTS program (Ladies Only Track Sessions). It has been a blast. They even had a special race oriented clinic on Memorial Day which was a lot of fun.

I’ve also ramped up our Breakaway Cycling rides. We now have an after work ride during the week and a weekend ride. I hope to soon have an away ride once a month as well. We have a nice core group attending, with more and more people joining each week. We did two nice rides where a few ladies got to accomplish some goals. So it was fun to see the excitement and sense of accomplishment. It reminded me of why I started the group in the first place. We will be training to do the Cool Breeze Century (Ventura to Santa Barbara) together as a group in August. Most of the ladies have never done a century before and it will their first one. It’s be very exciting.

So far we have 56 people sign up for Breakaway Cycling and we have had 14 events. We have approximately 8 regulars that ride consistently.

Catching Up

2009-06-02T13:46:00.000-07:00

Well, it’s been a while since I last blogged. You can still follow me on Facebook and Twitter for current updates. I’ve been busy doing some fun stuff. Let me catch you all up.

Tour of California- February
The Tour of California was insanely awesome. I had the opportunity to work at the Giant Booth and in The Rabobank VIP tent during the last four stages. There were so many people there it was crazy. It was so nice to see so many spectators at a US cycling event. The route and expos were jam packed with people. It was really exciting to see Lance, Levi, Floyd & Rabobank (Giant’s the bike sponsor) ride in SoCal. I can’t wait for next year. Rumor has it that the tour is moving to May.

Lots of traveling- March

March was a traveling month for me. I got to go up north to Reno to see family that I haven’t seen in a while. My cousin Ryan got married in Japan last year to an amazing young woman named Naiko. We all loved her and glad that she is now part of our family. It was the first time nearly all my generation was together. The only one missing was by beloved sister. I also traveled to Keystone, CO during their biggest snow storm of the year and then to Tucson, AZ both being business trips.

Sea Otter-April
Sea Otter was a blast this year. It was only my second time attending this event, but it left another lasting impression. I got to hang out with some friends from Arizona & Reno and watch my cousin Jon race Down Hill. Saw Kelli Emmett and Carl Decker out on course during two of their races. So needless to say, I caught Sea Otter racing fever. Next year I am thinking of competing in the Super D.

Cruisn the Conejo-May
This is by far one of my favorite rides (the other is Solvang Prelude) and it occurs where I usually ride. I was determined to do the century (6,000 feet of climbing) this year, since this is where I believe I first injured my knee two years ago. I didn’t have a lot of time to train, but I knew I had to do it. The morning was nice and overcast—perfect climbing weather. I left and road nice and easy. I was able to conquer a bulk of the climbing before the sun burned off all the fog and clouds. At mile 46 mile body began to question why I was doing this crazy ride, but after some food a chat with a couple fellow Conejo Valley Cyclists (CVCers) I was off and riding. I was feeling great. I finished the ride to the delight of still seeing the Giant booth and people at the finish line eating lunch. I even got to see my friend Beth at the last rest stop. She always makes me laugh and smile. I felt real good that day, and even felt that I could have continued riding.

VeloBetty Clinic- May

The following week after Cruisn the Conejo, I had the opportunity to participate in a VeloBetty clinic lead by Olympic Silver Medalist Mari Holden and Masters World Champion in Track, Road and Mountain, Lisa Jennings. The clinic was held in Ventura on Saturday and Ojai on Sunday. We had such a good time and learned a lot. A few of the Breakaway Cycling ladies were able to participate in the clinic as well. I can’t wait to attend another VeloBetty clinic. I highly recommend it. The go over techniques that aren’t really covered in a lot of clinics I’ve attended like, cornering, bike handling, etc.

Piru Time Trial (My Very First Race) 2-1-09

2009-02-01T20:10:00.000-08:00

Well, I did it. My very first Time Trial/ Bike Race. I've never attended or seen a Time Trial so I was a bit thrown off guard when it was announced that I was the first rider to go out for the day. Other riders started behind me in 30 second intervals. It was a gorgeous day, warmer than expected. I learned a lot. I learned that I shouldn't have warm up as hard as I did, I need to hydrate more the day before, and not to take my allergy medication & inhaler before a race as they made my heart rate very high.

Overall, I was pleased with my first one. I finished 2nd in my class (out of 3 people) with a time of 42.45. I really didn't train for this one, I wanted to use it as a base to see how much I could improve. So, now it's time to get serious and properly train to see how much time I can knock off.

I want to give a huge thank you to RaeLynn who gave me lots of advise and road the course with me a couple weeks ago giving me tips here and there. I would not have done as well without her encouragement, support, experience and advise. She rocks!!

I also want to thank my pit crew, my mom and my best friend Jaclyn, who were there for support, holding my stuff/bike, and taking the following photos and video. Seeing them at the finish gave me that extra boost to the end.

Enjoy the pics and video below....

Here is the video of me coming across the finish line....don't blink.. it's a quicky...

Encino Velodrome Meetup 1/17/09

2009-01-18T18:27:00.000-08:00

WOW!! I had an incredible experience on the track and I can officially say that I am addicted. I was rather nervous when in the class lecture they informed us that while riding the fixed gear bikes that had to keep a couple things in mind. One- Don't stop pedaling (coasting) and two Don't pedal backwards. Either one can quickly launch you on to the pavement. Did I mention that the bikes do not have brakes? Yup, but I quickly found that stopping wasn't that difficult. Already comfortable with riding on the road my bike handling skills really helped me on the track. I also noticed today that pedaling on the track really helps your road biking. Your pedaling is more efficient and so is your pedal stroke. It looks like both practicing both disciplines will really help my performance in each. Now when will I have time to hit the track? Hmmmmm....

Lady D Ready to Hit the Track...hopefully not literally

2009-01-16T13:40:00.000-08:00

Well tomorrow is the day! It will be my very first time on a track with a bicycle. Stay tuned to see if I survive or go splat! The weather is suppose to be absolutely gorgeous. I hope that the winds die down by then.

Tonight I'm attending a nutrition seminar at Simi Cycling Center. I"ll let you know how it goes!!

Breakaway Cycling- Social Cycling Club For Women Launches

2008-12-23T14:24:00.000-08:00

I've been busy these days with work. I even got to travel to Tucson, AZ for the Tour de Tucson and did the 109 miler. Had a blast.

I even purchased a new bike and am ready to ride...if only the weather would improve.

Well, I finally did! I launched Breakaway Cycling- Social Cycling Club For Women.

Breakaway Cycling is a social cycling club for women (men are welcome too) and resource center for riders to breakaway from the norm and ride, get fit, help the environment, and learn together. Here you can expect to meet other local Cyclists, gather for weekend ride planning, gear talk, training tips, etc.!

Check out the web site and join us on a ride. http://breakawaycycling.blogspot.com/

Cruisin The Conejo?

2008-04-27T19:06:00.000-07:00

Be sure to check back to see if I ride in Cruisin the Conejo on May 10th...also I am working on some other cycling related projects. Stay tuned for new about them....

The Wildflower

2008-04-27T15:55:00.000-07:00

For maps and statistics of the ride from my GPS, click on the image below and enjoy:

I survived!! It was such a fun ride!! Jean, Aaron and I left work and headed to Aaron's house to drop my car off and on the road we went. I must say we were a sad group. I have to say Aaron's van is so comfortable. It was a gorgeous ride up the coast to San Luis Obispo, CA. We arrived in Creston, CA at the local elementary school to register for the ride before heading to the hotel. The Wildflower staff gave us some advise. It will be cold in the morning but will be in the low to mid 90's in the afternoon. Jean and I instantly were trying to figure out our wardrobe for the day of the ride. The staff also informed us not to eat a lot at lunch because there is a large hill right after the lunch stop. With all the advise, we headed for a place to eat.

After cruising the main strip in Atescadero, CA (where are hotel is located) we decided on a steak house. The food was good and our tummies were full and we were ready for bed. I had been in touch with Chris Raser, who was on his way up to stay with us in the hotel. I must say we were a sad group. Aaron and Jean were on antibiotics getting over virus' and I wasn't feeling well. I either had really bad allergies or was fighting a cold. I couldn't get in to see the doctor to find out which one I had and Chris was getting over a cold. Jean and I hardly slept that night.

We all were up at 5:30am prepping for the ride and packing the car. The hotel had a continental breakfast and we decided to give it a try. When we went down to the breakfast we saw lots of fellow cyclists including a few faces. My friend RaeLynn (you can visit her blog via my Cycle Buddies page link on the right) and her hubby Robb. They both always put a smile on your face. John, Stephanie's friend was there too. Stephanie came up, but decided not to ride do to an ongoing neck injury that was inflamed. We didn't see the dynamic duo of Patrick and Wendy until we were heading out to the starting line.

We parked on the side of the road and then road to the start area to meet everyone. We decided to meet up at the Long Branch see below from right to left John, Wendy, Patrick, Arron (behind Patrick & Jean), Jean and myself:

We all started together, going slow to warm up our legs. I lead us out at a 12 mph pace and then divided and conquered. Wendy, Patrick and John took off ahead in hopes of completing the century. Aaron, Chris, Jean and myself stuck together with hopes of completing the 75 (which was actually only about 70 miles). In the first 15 miles they would loose me on the hills. I tend to go slower and reserve myself in the early miles until I am completely warmed up when I know that I will be doing a lot of climbing.

We made it up our first climb, and when we were descending and enjoying the sweet S-shape curves down the mountain we were asked to quickly slow down ahead almost to a stop. There were four patrol cars, two fire trucks and one ambulance. There was already a cyclist down. We were instantly reminded in the first few miles how dangerous it cycling can be. We later heard that the injured cyclist had took the turn too fast and crashed. He was knocked out, had nasty road rash and a couple broken bones. We all regrouped at the bottom and continued on to our first rest stop. It is always exciting to hit your first rest stop. For me they each are small goals that I make on these rides and when I reach them I feel well accomplished. We didn't spend too much time and we were off.

The scariest experience I've ever had as a cyclist happened today. I was descending a hill and a guy three times tried to knock me over while on his bike. The first time he almost cut me off. I had to hit my breaks really hard. The second and third time he came into me from the side. I could almost feel his shoulder touching mine as we went into a turn. I thought for sure I was going to go over the cliff as I was on the outside. I kept yelling at him to layoff. The third time I yelled at him really loud and he finally fell back. I was so angry!

We began to spread out over the big rolling hills. I was comfortable with my pace in the back until suddenly I came upon Jean. She wasn't looking to well, but said that she was ok so I passed her and met up with the guys at the 2nd rest stop. I got my picture taken there see below:

We beginning to be concerned about Jean. When she arrived she said she was done. She was not feeling well and attributed it to her being sick this past week. We stayed until she caught a SAG vehicle and then we were off again or so we thought. We hadn't gotten but 500 feet from the rest stop when Chris realized that he had a flat tire. We headed back while he and Aaron changed the tire. Forty minutes had past since we arrived at the rest stop when we left. Next stop lunch. We hit a couple smaller hills but mostly flat farm land. Boy was it windy! I was able to keep up with the guys and even lead a couple times. We stopped and took some pictures.

Ahhhh...Lunch! We were hungry. We arrived to a spread of make your own deli sandwiches. I was so excited. They had tuna with no mayo, olives (both black and green), carrots, yummy strawberries, etc. I made a wickedly good sandwich and got some pasta salad. When I was about to bit into my sandwich, one of the veteran cycles suggested that I don't eat the bread and just eat what was inside, because of the hill that was coming up. Well, I hadn't been eating much at the rest stops (because I wasn't hungry) and was concerned that I wasn't getting enough to eat so I compromised and only ate one slice and gave my cookie to Chris. It tasted so good!! Aaron was ecstatic that they had matza...here is a pick of him:

After lunch we were back on our bikes ready for this hill everyone was talking about. We all stuck together at a pretty good pace, when suddenly Aaron got an amazing rush of energy and bulleted out ahead of us disappearing into the hills. It must have been the matza bread. I was feeling pretty good when suddenly I felt the heat getting to me. I gued up for the first time on the ride and pored water on my neck and over my head. I told Chris (behind me) that I needed to stop for a moment. I was feeling nauseous and tingly. Once my heart rate lowered I was feeling great and we were back riding and soon found the water stop. I drank lots of water and geared up for the final 10 miles.

A little more climbing up the "big" hill and we were flying down...oh it was such a wonderful feeling flying down the mountain knowing that we were so close to finishing. We caught up with Aaron and all stuck together to the finish where we were greeted by Jean. She was feeling much better and was happy to see us. Aaron had filled up a huge jug of water and we all took sponge baths and changed our clothes at the car on the side of the road. Soon to follow were Wendy, Patrick and John. They bailed out of the 100 (actually 107 miles) and did about 86 miles. That is still darn good...it was hot and windy!! We all got cleaned up and headed over to the BBQ and met Stephanie there. It was delicious and in good time, we were hungry. With our tummies full we said our good byes to everyone and headed home. We arrived at Aaron's house around 7:45pm and I ran in to use his restroom. I had been hydrating all day and it was finally catching up with me. I arrived home around 8:30pm. Chatted with the family, called Jaclyn. I didn't even unpack or shower, I grabbed an ice pack put it on my neck and fell asleep on my bed.

I have to mention that I love the cycling community. I've done so many events that I am starting to recognize and see some familiar faces. There were so many Giant bicycles there, it made me feel proud that I work for them. I have the habit on rides of riding by people who are on a Giant and say, "Nice Bike!"
and they always say Thank you, I love it and then tell me stories about it. Here is one last photo of Aaron riding through the beautiful country side towards the end of the ride:

Coming Soon...

2008-04-14T18:42:00.000-07:00

Stay tuned to hear about where I've been riding and whom I've been riding with....

Rides I've Done Since ALC 6

2008-04-14T18:25:00.000-07:00

Well, after last years ALC ride, I had was side lined with a knee injury. Which really frustrated me. I was not able to do much until Oct 2008. Thinking that it was a short term injury and that being off of it for a month I did the Cool Breeze Ride in August. That was the last ride I did until the Solvang ride. Which was absolutely gorgeous!! I then took it easy and did the Tour de Foothills with my friend Chris. It was actually the shadow of the Tour de Foothills because once we started (we had a late start) we never saw another person from the ride until the finish line. I also got the opportunity to do my first century ride of the year-- Tour of Palm Springs. It was so much fun. I road with my friends RaeLynn and Heidi. It was so exciting to see them both finish their first century.

Well, now I am training for what they call the most beautiful ride in California--The Wildflower ride in San Louis Obispo. We are heading up on April 25th to rest up and ride bright and early on Apr 26th. Most of us are doing the 75 miler due to our work and training schedules. Next year I will need to do the 100 miler. It has 6500 ft of climbing that is 500 more than I did last year at the Cruisin the Conejo, which I am thinking of doing again this year. We'll see how things go with the Wildflower ride.

I"M BACK!!!!!!!!

2008-04-14T11:41:00.000-07:00

After not posting for near a year, (thanks to RaeLynn for motivating me to get back to blogging) I'm back with lots of news, new knowledge of the sport and new cycling groups to share to you.

Stay tuned and I'll bring you up to date of what's been going on this past year.

Day 7 and more

2007-06-12T17:25:00.000-07:00

What can I say…after sitting out for 2 ½ days, trying to be smart and an example to others on how to take care of yourself when injured (so not to further injure yourself further), I decided to ride the last day. Thank you to James Ray and Sarah Sypniewski my ALC Cycle Buds for letting me vent, consultations and comforting me with this disappointment.

Saturday, Day 7, my knee was still tender, but at least I could bend it by this point in the trip. I was so excited and nervous about getting back on a bike. I started out slow and then realized that I needed to go my normal speed. I took off. It felt so good; going along a course that I was very familiar with. I was both excited and sad that the event was near the end. The weather was doing me in. I am not a fan of cold, wet & windy. Yet all the months of preparation and the event sort of flew by. I made it in very early to the VA 11:50am to be exact. I stopped at every stop and even sat down to chat with Brian from SF. Ironically I spent the day riding solo and not with my usual group. It was rather fitting. As I rode I was able to process the week.

I got to think about why I did the ride this year. The ride isn’t about me and how many miles I do (even though I felt like I was letting a lot of people down, especially my new coworkers). Yes, it is for the cause (AIDS/ HIV), but I think my work put’s it best with it’s motto. Ride Life, Ride Giant. I’m out there with everyone else Riding Life... I wasn’t there this year only to ride, but to support others experiencing life’s challenges and triumphs that the ride creating for them. ALC is an experience of a lifetime, we all grow and change on the ride it is inevitable and a gift. I was challenged to take my eyes of myself and focus on others who needed my support. Whether it was me cheering up those riders who are struggling to get up those hills, telling stories and singing songs to distract other riders of the many more miles still to come or was there to cheer on that newbie who had never ridden that many miles before and finished their first day, to help instruct new riders of what was to come and see them cross that finish line. To help that cyclist stranded on the side of the road with a flat tire, or to council a fellow cyclist with bad news from home, struggling with a situation or personal issue. A couple people amazed me. Heidi had gotten 8 flat tires (sometime 2 a day), lost a screw from her cleat and couldn’t get her shoe off the peddle, yet she continued to have a smile and continued to conquer each day as if nothing had ever happened. She was a real inspiration.

Since I finished early on Saturday, I got to see most people cross the finish line, for some it was their first time, some that I had lead on training rides and spent time with on the ride, some I had helped up that hill or cheered them on because they were riding a Giant bicycle. It was very humbling to be able to sit there and watch the riders cross the line of victory, not only for the cause, but for themselves. Their elated faces as they had accomplished a life long goal that they didn’t think imaginable, living the memory of ones they had lost. I got to witness firsthand snapshots of their life while they road with them and got to see before my very own eyes life transform in just a week. Who could ask for more…and yes even though I said that this would be my last year with ALC, I came to the conclusion that I need to come back. I still haven’t ridden every mile. I don’t know when but I will do it again.

For now, my knee needs to heal. I went to the doctor and I did tear a tendon (dinged it) and stressed some ligaments. My doctor says 4-6 months for it to fully heal, but by my birthday (beginning of July) I can start riding again, while cross training, but stay on relatively flat ground. I will be aiming to do a ride in August called the “Cool Breeze” Ventura to Santa Barbara. The doctor said I probably would be ready if I take the hills very slow and take very good care of myself. He gave me some medicine to help with the pain and inflammation. He also complimented me for stopping when I did. He noted that if I had continued on I definitely would have done far more damage resulting in the need possibly for surgery. I guess with my getting older I am actually getting smarter. I hope that I don’t loose my new found wisdom.

I also went back over some of my mom’s entries and made a few additions that I forgot to tell her on the phone. So, please re-read when you get a chance. She did an amazing job and everyone is so very impressed by her writing skills and blogging ability. Thank you Mom and thank you for the support via the phone.

Day 6

2007-06-08T22:38:00.000-07:00

Today's ride was from Lompoc to Ventura 85.5 miles. Well the good news is San Buena Ventura Beach is almost home. The bad news-Deanne was not able to ride today. She woke up this morning feeling great but was in a lot of pain a little later. Tonight was the candle light vigil to honor those that have died and those that still are living with AIDS/HIV. The vigil takes place on the beach. The riders, roadies, and staff are joined by a tremendous group of families, friends and media. The sight of all those people holding candles is awesome and very moving. Tomorrow will be another emotional day when the cyclists ride into the V.A. facilities in Westwood and the ride comes to an end. Well, my job is done. Deanne will be the next blogger. Good Bye.

Mom

Day 4

2007-06-06T22:47:00.000-07:00

Today's ride was from Paso Robles to Santa Maria-94.7 miles. Last night Deanne and her friends were able to enjoy a rootbeer float. It sure tasted good after the long, hot, and windy day. D wasn't able to sleep much last night because of a security light that was shining on the tent all night. Every day when the new camp sites are set up the tents are rotated so no one tent has to experience the lights, traffic to rest rooms and whatever two days in a row. The tent mates are assigned a site and that's where they have to pitch their tent. The tents are always in the same order they just rotate up and down the rows. The weather was very cold this morning and it was really hard to get going. Deanne was able to make it to the halfway marker around 11 am. I told you that it's a tradition to have their picture taken at the sign. What I didn't tell you is that they get their picture taken while holding their bike over their head. Wow, halfway from San Francisco to Westwood and on a bike. The wind was 30 + miles per hour today. At rest stop two, Pismo Beach, the wind was blowing so hard everyone was getting sandblasted and the crew had to take down their canopy. Deanne said it looked like one giant dirt bowl. There were a lot of dead animals on and off the highway today. When the group was climbing a particularly difficult hill today they noticed an extremely large group of hawks circling overhead. Everyone started joking about the hawks anticipating a few, not so tender, bikers for lunch-sorry, not today. In all the comotion to get up the hill in the wind someome noticed that Alison (sp) was missing. Alison is having trouble with her back and so everyone was looking frantically for her. When someone looked up at the hill, that they were having such a difficult time climbing, there was Alison at the top. As they were struggling to ride up Alison got off her bike and walked up to the top-at least she hadn't been carried off. Thanks to Alfred Hitchcock any flock of birds can be intimidating. Deanne's knee was giving her a lot of pain. She said "it felt like someone was stabbing me under my right knee cap with a screw driver". Needless to say, at mile 33 she asked if someone could tape the knee for her. The rest stop crew insisted that she go on the bus to the Santa Maria Camp to see the medics. Deanne thought that she could go back and finish the days ride but the medics had a different idea. D tore a tendon and damaged a ligament. But with massage, manipulation, and some Tylenol she should be able to ride tomorrow. She was upset that she had to SAG -be picked up by the Support and Gear vehicle, but realizes that she probably couldn't pedal up another hill with just one leg. Over 400 cyclists SAGed before lunch today. Heather was the only one of "the group" to make it all the way today-way to go Heather! The food is great and everyone is having a lot of fun. Deanne keeps seeing more and more Giant bikes, mostly guys though. Tomorrow is "red dress" day. Let's hope that tomorrow is a better day and that the wind isn't as brutal.

Mom

Day 3

2007-06-05T22:01:00.000-07:00

Today's ride was from King City to Paso Robles-77.3 miles of the worst road in all of California. As I mentioned last night, this section of the ride is known as the "Quad Buster". The weather was very hot and many cyclists (including Deanne) got a little sun burned. Deanne commented on seeing a lot of Giant bikes today. She was wearing her Giant Kit (shirt & matching shorts) and her friends were teasing her about her Giant butt and Giant chest (the word Giant is in very large letters on the back of the shorts and across the bustline) oh well, a little laughter is good for you. Today is the day that the ride goes through the small town that a school in Bradly hosts a BBQ as a fundraiser for their elementary school. This is the only fund raiser the local school conducts and everyone looks forward to the ALC's visit. Obviously, a good time is had by all. D had a double cheeseburger, chips and a coke. A few miles back on the road she started to re-think such a heavy lunch in such hot bumpy conditions, but she was ok. There was a dead mountain lion that kind of made her sad, it hadn't been dead very long and was under a tree on the side of the road. Deanne and Heather were the only two of their group to make it all the way today. A nice shower can rid you of more than the road dirt and Deanne is always glad for those great big trucks with the portable showers and plenty of hot water after a ride. D is feeling pretty good except for a pain under the knee cap. Someone gave her some Bio Freeze and she is feeling better. Tomorrow they will pass the half way marker, where it is a tradition to have your picture taken. Tomorrow the riders will face the "Evil Twins" -two exceptionally difficult hills and end their day in Santa Maria. The mission that they saw yesterday was the Mission Soledad. I think thats pretty much it for today.

Mom

Day 2

2007-06-04T22:30:00.000-07:00

Day 2 was a long day-105.4 mile ride, mostly flat, from Santa Cruz to King City. D woke up to a tent drenched with condensation from the fog. Everything was wet. The day's ride included a visit to the "Cookie Lady" (she starts baking cookies in March for the ride and made over 2,600 this year-vegan, raisen, chocolate chip etc.), a peek into a mission, views of strawberry fields (where the workers stopped working to wave to the cyclists), again, amazing views of the ocean and fabulous surroundings. She missed out on the skinny dipping, darn. The weather was cold in the morning but warmed up to the upper 80's /lower 90's. The winds blew from every direction and at times the cyclists were riding slanted to one side just to stay upright. Deanne is feeling pretty good, just has some pains in her shoulders from leaning forward so much-thank goodness for those instant heat packs. At one of the stops today they were handing out "otter pops"- boy did they hit the spot. After a couple of chocolate milks for breakfast and lunch she was ready to tackle anything. D stayed behind to ride in with a newbie so they didn't get into camp until around 7 pm. The girl she was riding with thought that they were the last of the cyclists to get to camp. Deanne had to tell her friend to turn around and look behind her- there were somewhere between 100 and 150 people still coming. Except for running out of bandaids everything is going pretty well. D hasn't been able to reach Gab Cast, there are just too many people trying to leave phone messages. Hope she gets plenty of sleep tonight because tomorrow's ride is known as the "Quad Buster" due to the bad condition of the road.

Mom

Day1

2007-06-03T21:01:00.000-07:00

D's group of riders decided to hold back and leave Cow Palace close to the end of the 2333 cyclists. The group consists of 10 riders six of whom are "newbies". At the start of the ride it was very windy and cold, no rain but a lot of dampness and fog. The 10 mile climb to Skyline can be a little challenging and except for dropping her chain at mile 3 everything went smoothly. Her Giant bike was great shifting and made all the difference in climbing those hills. Deanne credits her bike rides at lunch (with her Giant co-workers) for helping her ride in the wind. Since Skyline was in the clouds it was the coldest part of the ride. Once out of the clouds though, everyone was peeling off those extra layers. D enjoyed the beautiful views of a light house and amazing surroundings. Deanne and her tent mate Heather were the only ones (in their group) not to sag today. Way to hang in there D! Deanne did have a mishap when she cut her finger (small cut) on a piece of glass helping someone change a flat tire. Todays ride was 94 miles but all are safely tucked in their tents, "lights out" is 9 pm. Roadie up date- 568 are making complete camp "communities" including security, food, showers, restrooms, hospital and transporting all equipment from one camp site to the next and in some cases transporting the ridders via van to the next camp site, not to mention manning rest stops every 20 or so miles. Wow
Night night, Mom

2007-06-03T14:00:00.000-07:00

D and Beth spent several hours Thursday night loading and packing 9 bikes and gear into a U-haul truck. They, along with Keith, left Ventura about 5 am on Friday. The trip fortunately was uneventful and all arrived in San Francisco safe.
Saturday was check in day at the Cow Palace. Again things went fairly well. Bikes get turned in and tent assignments are handed out. All paper work etc. gets sorted taken care of. Lots of people but very well orginized.
This year there are 2,300 cyclists and app. 450 "roadies"(volunteers). The Aids Life Cycle 6 raised 11 million dollars- that is 3 million more than last year's record breaking 8 million. Participants are from 10 countries and 43 states.
The only downer seems to be the dark,cold, and windy weather that is San Francicso. There is a possibility of rain on opening day. Everyone is expecting a colder ride this year.
Opening Ceremonies were to begin at 5 am this morning and the first riders should have left Cow Palace an hour or so later. Since I can't find any information on how the Opening Ceremonies went I must assume that it all went well.
Will the weather be a plus or a hindrance during that tuff climb (biggest climb of the ride) out of the Cow Palace in Daly City (near San Francisco) and on towards the first camp at Harvey West Park in Santa Cruz? I guess we will hear about that later if and when D checks in.
Hope to have more info on day 1 later.

Mom

Listen to D Gab

2007-05-26T20:34:00.000-07:00

Click here to listen to me gab about my ride. I will try and leave updates via cell phone when I can. Enjoy!

Giant Training

2007-05-26T20:13:00.000-07:00

Well, I am just about all packed and ready to leave for my ride. I did my last training ride today, a quick 15 miler. I have cleaned and oiled my chain and thanks to Lance (one of my co-workers) my bicycle has passed a saftey check. I have fine tuned and am ready to go. The photo attached is of Patrick & Jean two of a few whom I train with at lunch. I can't believe that the ride is already here...

I will leave to a friends house, Beth Parks, on Thursday and will head up to SF on Friday at 5:30am. Saturday is (June 2nd) is Orientation Day and Sunday we ride out early in the morning...I mean early morning. Call time is 5:00 am for Opening Ceremonies. I hope that the alarm goes off this year. Last year my alarm never went off and when I awoke I had 15 minutes to get ready, checked out and over to the Cow Palace. Some how I made it in time. I wish for things to go more smoothly this year. My mom will probably be leaving nightly updates of my daily adventures so be sure to tune in...

My itinerary for AIDS/ LifeCycle 6

2007-05-17T23:22:00.000-07:00

Here is my itinerary for AIDS/ LifeCycle 6

June 2 -- Orientation Day: The Cow Palace
Cow Palace, 2600 Geneva Ave, Daly City CA 94014

June 3 -- Opening Ceremonies: The Cow Palace
Cow Palace, 2600 Geneva Ave Daly City CA 94014 --
DAY ONE Mileage: 89.9

June 3 -- Camp 1: Harvey West Park, Santa Cruz
Harvey West Park, 326 Evergreen Street, Santa Cruz CA 95060

June 4 -- Camp 2: San Lorenzo County Park, King City --
DAY TWO Mileage: 105.4
San Lorenzo County Park, 1160 Broadway, King City CA 93930

June 5 -- Camp 3: Mid State Fairgrounds, Paso Robles --
DAY THREE Mileage: 77.3
Mid State Fairgrounds, 2198 Riverside Ave, Paso Robles CA 93447

June 6 -- Camp 4: Preisker Park, Santa Maria --
DAY FOUR Mileage: 94.7
Preisker Park, 2301 Preisker Ln, Santa Maria CA 93458

June 7 -- Camp 5: River Park, Lompoc --
DAY FIVE Mileage: 45.2
Sweeney Rd & Hwy 246 Lompoc, CA 93436

June 8 -- Camp 6: San Buenaventura State Beach, Ventura
DAY SIX Mileage: 85.5
San Buenaventura State Beach, 901 San Pedro St, Ventura, CA 93001

June 9 -- Closing Ceremonies: VA Center, Los Angeles (near Brentwood)VA Center, 11301 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 --
DAY SEVEN Mileage: 61.5

*All sites subject to change.* Total Mileage: 556.8

Cruisn the Conejo Century & 6,000 ft of Climbing

2007-05-13T13:27:00.000-07:00

Call me crazy, but I survived the 6,000 ft of climbing of the Cuisin the Conejo Century on Saturday May 12th. It was difficult and a mind challenging. After the 45 mile I was pretty much on my own. I gave Larry with Team Ventura the go ahead to go on without me. I didn't want to hold him back. I actually did 104 because I rode to the start line from my grandmother's house and back. I saw some amazing parts of Ventura county. Lake Sherwood and Hidden Valley were so beautiful. The head winds came out in the afternoon and were a little tough in Camarillo & Simi. But what a great feeling when I finsihed. I started at about 7:30am and finished about 4:45pm. Mullholland was very hilly, but beautiful and 60% of the climbing was in the beginning of the day, so that was good. Some of the descents were so steep that my shoulders and hands began to hurt from pushing back on the handle bars. During the end of the ride my left knee and quads were hurting so bad that I had to pull over and stretch them every once in a while. I didn't want to do an damage with ALC6 only a couple weeks away. But all is good. It was actually fun and a huge accomplishment too. I only had a small derailleur issue at mile 75, and was able to make the adjustment on my own :) One of the guys at work showed me how. The boy scouts who supported the ride had some yummy treats (cheese sandwiches, PB&J, strawberries, oranges, a variety of breads, cookies, etc) and held our bikes for us as we got our munchies, filled out water bottles and ran to the rest room. I even saw Thomas Beer (the CEO from IMC--the company I used to work for) as I came out of one of the porta potties on rest stop 2. We chatted a bit. I guess he was doing the 62 miler. It was a pleasant suprise and a joy to see another person who has caught the passion to cycle.

I am off my bike for 2 days then tues-fri I will be riding to work form Jaclyn's house. We have competitions at work for riding to work and my team (Blazing Saddles) is in 3rd place. We were in 5th and last place when I started there. I hope to gain enough points to help bring us up in the standings, plus I get individual points too. I hope that my legs have enough in them for the rest of the week. I have to commute 16 miles each way with a nice climb early on.

Tune in again to see how my week went and as I finalize my things for ALC6. (Click on map of route above to enlarge)

ALC6 Day On The Ride81 miles...I Survived!

2007-04-21T20:30:00.000-07:00

Well, I survived the 81 miles from ALC6’s Day On The Ride, but it wasn’t compeltely easly.

With my busy schedule & new job (including a business trip), I have gotten a bit worn down and woke up on Friday with a cold. Today, when I woke up at 5:30am, the thought of riding my bike was painful. But I went ahead and did it anyway. Full of cold medication I loaded the car and headed to Santa Monica. I felt so crappie, my head was in the clouds, my body and head ached, my throat was so soar and I was cold. I had a nice thick jacket on and a Thermal Care heating pad on my shoulders and full tights covered my legs. I was going to do this ride, even though my body and mind weren’t up for it, but my heart was. I met my friend Heather and stuck pretty close to her, not feeling very social with the rest of the group. I can’t tell you though seeing the ALC staff and interacting with them always gives me that extra boost of energy and boy was I needing it. They are awesome!

We rolled out at about 7:30am. I noticed that my computer was not working. I was concerned that if I got separated from Heather that I would have a difficult time finding my way without the mileage. I also depend so much on my computer to keep me motivated by my speed and knowing how many miles I needed to go/ have gone ect. So, I was a bit bummed when I didn’t feel well and my main motivational source was not working. I didn’t have a good feeling about this ride…plus it was cold & windy and many miles were ahead of me.

Funny thing when I compare today’s ride to the Day On The Ride last year I saw many improvements despite my health and technical difficulties. I was able to climb the hills with out stopping or cross training, plus I finished it much earlier than last year. Go figure. All in all today was a huge accomplishment, both in my training for The Ride itself, and mentally and physically as well. I do need to work on those darn headwinds. I am not a fan and struggled with them today as well. This ride has also motivated me to do more rides to work and at lunch time as well. Next weekend I am scheduled to help my friend Beth with her 55 miles training ride. Wish me luck!! Check back to see how it goes.

Earth Day/ Ride Life- Ride Your Bike To Work Day

2007-04-19T23:03:00.000-07:00

I never thought that I would work for a company that rewards their employees for riding to work. Wednesday was my first Ride Life- Ride Your Bike To Work Day at Giant. Since it was Earth Day, my company decided to create one. We get points for commuting, riding at lunch and riding at night. At the end of the year they hand out awards. We are also all on teams compiles of employees from different departments. I am on the team called Blazing Saddles. I don’t know anyone on the team yet, but hopefully that will soon change. Check out our company's Ride Life Web Site at www.ridelife.net. You can read about our athletes.

How was my ride, you ask? Well instead of riding the 30 miles, leaving the house at 4 am to ride into work to be there at 7am (my normal starting time), I drove to Simi Valley. I parked at my friend’s house and road 16 miles into work. When I left the house it was pitch dark, and my body was asking me “What the Hell are you doing to me, it is early in the morning on a week day, it is cold, windy and the sun hasn’t even risen yet. I fought the urge to give up and continued into work. I hadn’t ridden the route before so, wasn’t quite sure what I was in for, a little more climbing than I had expected, but it was all good. My computer didn’t work on my way into work, so I hadn’t a clue how many miles or how fast I was riding. My trip back explained a lot.

I also road with a group of co-workers at lunch; we did a 9 mile loop with some hill climbing as well. My co-workers are a lot of fun and challenge me which I need. A few of us are doing Cruisin the Conejo, a ride that our company is helping to sponsor. So far I am the only one signed up for the Century (103 miles). I hope that I can do it, plus it will help me with my training for ALC6. It is suppose to be very challenging. I’ll let you know it is May 12th.

I am off to bed, I have to rest up. Saturday, I am doing ALCs A Day On The Ride the 80 miles option. Wish me luck! I am going to need it. I am exhausted!

Sea Otter Classic

2007-04-19T23:00:00.000-07:00

I attended my first Sea Otter Classic with Giant. It was a lot of fun, but it was a busy schedule for us as well. It was fun to see what our competition was doing and my first taste at the cycling industry. Giant was nominated for 4 Editors Choice Awards from Bicycling Magazine—so it was cool to attend the award ceremony. It was cool to see my co-workers work with the media. They were definitely in there element and did us proud.

One of my favorite parts was cheering for our Mountain Bike Team during their competitions. I also got a pleasant surprise. My cousin Jon was there competition also and won too. I was so excited to see him. Unfortunately I was working and didn’t get to see his races, but it was cool knowing that he was there. We ended up missing each other and didn’t get to give a proper goodbye. I was proud to see that he was riding a Giant. Keeping it in the Fam!! Sweet!

Giant Leap

2007-04-10T19:21:00.000-07:00

Guess what? I have a new job. After 14 years at IMC, I have ventured off to a new beginning at Giant Bicycle, Inc. Check it out at www.giantbicycle.com. Yup, you read correctly. My passion for cycling has lead me to a job in the cycling industry. I have already completed my second day there and am very excited on the projects and opportunities. I will also be joining the team at the Sea Otter Classic in Monterey, CA (www.seaotterclassic.com) this weekend. We will have a booth, both for men’s & women’s specific bicycles, bike demos and our Mountain Bike Team will be competing as well. If you are attending, come by and say hi!

60

2007-04-10T18:59:00.000-07:00

I had the honor and privilege of riding 60 miles with my Cycle Buddy, Sarah, plus Josie, and Leslie who all 3 road from SF to LA. Heather, Alain (joined them for 2 days) and I joined them on the last day of their incredible journey. It was very humbling, yet exciting.

Cycle Buddy Sarah Rides from SF to LA

2007-04-03T09:26:00.000-07:00

Want some inspiration? Check out my Cycle Buddy, Sarah's blog. She is currently riding down the coast from San Francisco to Los Angeles on her bicycle. She had always wanted to do the ALC ride, but never got the opportunity until now. Follow here amazing experience via her blog site as she peddles with just two other people and 2 support staff (this is the same ride I will be doing in June, but with 2500 other people and a full support staff). I plan on riding with her, during her last leg from Ventura to Brentwood on Easter Sunday with a couple other peeps.

Here is the link to her blog site: www.aidslifecycle.org/7

Enjoy!

My First Half Century of the Season

2007-04-03T09:25:00.001-07:00

I had a wonderfully lovely day on Sunday 4/1. Heather, who will be my tent mate this year, and I rode all around. We trained together last year and rode a few days on the ride together as well. Again perfect weather was gleaming down on us!! We started at her place in West Hollywood and right off the bat climbed Nichols Canyon. Lovely! Then we coasted down hill into Griffith Park did a loop around and saw some fellow ALCers. We then road further into the Valley and did a little more hill climbing, stopped off at Whole Foods in Sherman Oaks and then it was up and over Sepulveda through the VA. Heather and I had already done a couple hills and figured why not do another, so we climbed Bundy to Mt St Mary’s up top. I was remembering that last year when I climbed Bundy, I ended up walking my bike (cross training) for a portion of it. It was a very pleasant surprise that I was able to climb it after climbing 2 other hills with out a problem. Yay!! We flew down San Vicente and turned around at Ocean, then headed back to West Hollywood via many stop signs and a few rolling hills. I had completed my first half century this season. YAY!! Heather and I spent the day peddling down memory lane, reflecting on last years ride & training. We celebrated by eating a late lunch… it was delish!

From The Valley to The Sea 3/31-Success

2007-04-03T09:22:00.000-07:00

Wow!! I led my first "big" training ride on Saturday 3/31, a 43 miler from Lake Balboa in Van Nuys to the Santa Monica Pier and back. There were 14 of us total. I actually had 20 RSVPs. It was the biggest group I’ve had yet! It was exciting. The weather was perfect! The people were a pleasure and there were no mishaps! Amazing!!! It was so much fun to see familiar faces, Katie and Scott were there. I trained and road with them during the ride last year. We had a lot of fun. I can't wait to get out there and do another training ride. It was an awesome group!

What Have I Been Up To?

2007-03-21T15:49:00.001-07:00

Sorry for the lack of updates recently. My free time has been very limited these days. If I am not riding, I am scouting out a route, creating a route slip, riding the route to double check the directions and mileage, and then writing and posting it to the ALC website.

I am also attending my first SFVBC (San Fernando Valley Bicycling Club) meeting tonight. I’ve seen them riding around town on the weekends and have visited their web site numerous time. I am very excited to finally meet with them.

Here is what I have been doing for training:
I have been spending a lot of time riding from Porter Ranch to Simi Valley via Santa Susana Pass (29 miles) and have led 2 groups on this route. I have also been scouting and riding a route from Lake Balboa to the Santa Monica Pier as well. I hope to lead a group through there next weekend and possible the weekend after. It is an absolutely amazingly beautiful ride. I’ll fill you all in on more info soon….

Get with the V Baby Team Valley!!

2007-02-18T12:31:00.000-08:00

Well, we did it! Team Valley had there first ride today! There were 9 people total including Beth Parks (who came out all the way from Oxnard) who helped TRL (Training Ride Leader) with me. We had the best weather and a great group of people. We did a quick 10 mile beginner ride figure 8 around Lake Balboa. Beth did a quick little bike basics workshop afterwards for a few who stayed. We will be doing the same ride next week. Check out the new Team Valley blog site I created:
www.alc-team-valley.blogspot.com

Back to Back Bike Attack

2007-02-18T12:05:00.000-08:00

OMG! Bike Attack did this awesome ride on Saturday, February 10th. It was from Santa Monica to the Valley (SFV) via Sepulveda. Sepulveda is approximately a 3.5 mile climb. It was awesome. Being a person from the Valley, it was so nice to actually have an ALC training ride make a quick visit here. This ride had been the first official ALC training ride I had been on since last November. It was a great feeling! I had been cross-training at the gym during the week on my lunch break and cycling around the neighborhood. Surprisingly it was a very easy ride for me.

Riding with Santa Monica Bike Attack is like coming home to me. I rode with them a few times last year and did one of my mentor TRL rides with David. My cycling buddy Heather is now one of the TRLs there too. It is fun to watch her helping out everyone. Amy a TRL was SF who has moved to LA is a very pleasant and valued addition to the Santa Monica Bike Attack group as well. I rode with them yesterday in unseasonably warm weather. The views are simply gorgeous and we had a great time.

It's Official I'm Riding in ALC 6

2007-01-26T10:34:00.000-08:00

I just registered for ALC 6 and in order to be able to ride, I need to raise $2,500. Please visit my ALC6 Web Site to make a donation today. Thank you. http://www.aidslifecycle.org/3103

Italian Cross Training

2006-12-20T09:48:00.000-08:00

As some of you know, I just got back from spending 2 weeks in Italy. I had a blast and was able to get in plenty of exercise as well. I started out in Rome and roamed up and down the narrow streets, seeing the Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Pantheon, Coliseum, and much of Eternal City. I spent a lot of time at the Vatican. St. Peter’s Square is quite large and I had the opportunity to climb 320 steps up to the top of the Coupa to see The Sistine Chapel. I saw the tombs of the Popes and the Chapel as well. Rome by night is amazing. The weather was gorgeous throughout the whole trip.

Many of the cities main transportation was via bicycle. I wish that I had mine, but mine would definitely stick out as there bicycles were quite a bit older than mine and were many different shapes and sizes.

The leaning Tower of Pisa is truly leaning. Climbing up to the top was a bit of a challenge as well. You definitely feel the towe leanning. But what a feeling when you reach the top and see the city from above. The stairways get smaller and smaller as you get to the top of the 293rd step.

Milan was crazy busy and cold. Florence was beautiful and we often found ourselves crisscrossing a lot of the same streets to get from one place to another. It was so beautiful and we wanted to see as much as we can with all the cobble stones. I know I left plenty of foot leather in that city. Lake Maggiore was absolutely breath taking. We hiked around the lake and spent a lot of time staring at the heavenly view of the Swiss Alps (photo is of Claudia, my roomate, and I with the Swiss Alps behind us). A day trip into Lugano, Switzerland granted me the opportunity to see several cycling teams training. Many of the pods flew by us as they were on a very fast pace.

In Verona I saw the homes of Romeo & Juliet and yes the infamous balcony. We trekked up and down the streets on this ancient city. But my favorite city had to be in Venice. OMG!!! It was very magical. We had the opportunity to see it both at night and in the day. The many little islands, canals and shops, kept our curiosity peaked the whole time. Around every corner was something different. It was a gorgeous city, not very crowded this time of year and the weather was very kind to us. It is like being at Disneyland. Everything is big, amazing and elaborate. Very colorful and it didn’t seem real. We didn’t want to get off of the gondola ride.

Assisi, is a medieval castle on the side of a mountain top. We climbed the roads of this very small town that had a Abbey and cute little nuns roaming the streets. It had a very story book feel. Many of the cobblestone roads were very steep and I wondered how the elderly got around.

Pompeii had us in awe. Mt Vesuvius had erupted and wipped out this whole community. Archeologists had uncovered a lot of the city and as we walked the excavated streets it was very clear how advanced the Romans were for their time. It was also very devastating to see all the damage that the volcano had caused.

Sorrento and Capri had breath tasking views along their coasts. We took a chair lift up to the top of Ana Capri and were amazing by the beauty that laid before us. Lots of steps and climbing as well.

Napoli (Naples) held both beauty and poverty. Saw where the first pizza was made and saw castles a midst some very poor communities.

I ate a lot (won’t be having Italian for a while), got a good workout walking the streets of every city we came too. My 23 travel mates plus the driver and tour director were from all over the world. It was fun to hear everyone’s stories. But I am glad to be home and can’t wait to get back on my bike and ride through beautiful Southern California.

Fall Certification

2006-12-20T09:44:00.000-08:00

This fall I hit the books again. I earned a Personal Training Certification (I can now legally train people and earn money, yay!), ALC Training Ride Leader Certification and First Aid/ Adult CPR/ AED Certification as well. So we shall see what the future holds for me with my education.

Up and Over 35+ Miles

2006-11-27T14:51:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, I rode from my house up and over Santa Susanna Pass (A mountainous road that connects the San Fernando Valley to Simi Valley) to my friend’s house in Simi (a little over 35 miles). She kindly filled my water bottles, visited with me for a bit, gave me a piece of gum and wished me luck on my venture home. I was feeling very strong. First time in a while, I’ve been under the weather lately. It was a really good feeling. However, Sunday I wasn’t feeling very well, so instead of riding the Griffith Park Loop I helped out with Training Ride by cheering them on and sign in and out participants. I even caught a nice workshop on bike fitting before the ride. It was fun to meet new cyclists and see familiar faces.

Riding/ Volunteering in Santa Monica

2006-11-21T08:15:00.000-08:00

I continued riding this weekend. I rode with Santa Monica Bike Attack to the VA Center and back for about a 23 mile ride with lots of turns and a couple small hills. I couldn't believe that it was 8 am on a November morning and I had not even a sweater on. The high for the day I think was 86 degrees. Beautiful day! (above left to right: me, Vince, Heather & James)

Sunday I volunteered at the Cannondale/ Helen's Cycle workshop and training ride in Santa Monica. I wasn't feeling well that day so I didn't ride, but it was a blast to watch the riders go out and come in and I hung out at the ALC booth. I learned some new stretches at the stretching clinic. It was another warm, but warm day. I enjoyed chatting with Vince, James & Heather.

I have to mention another interesing product that was introduced to us by a fellow cyclist Stephanie was definately a conversation piece. She was introducing a product calle "P-Mate". It is used to assist women with using the restroom outdoors without discomfort and overexposure. Check it out Steph's web site at www.dontsquat.com. It definately caught some attention. Below is Stephanie modeling the product.

Photo Op

2006-11-21T08:09:00.000-08:00

Here is a photo from the ride (ALC5 June 2006), and no those are not my unmentionables hanging from the clothing line. I had just come back from the showers and am being rushing off to dinner by my friends.

Back to Where it All Began

2006-11-06T11:15:00.000-08:00

Well, I completed my first back to back ride since The Big Ride in June. After completing 25 miles on Saturday in Griffith Park, I completed another 22 on Sunday riding with Team Ventura. Team Ventura is such a great group of people. It was a beautiful morning. It got surprisingly warm, dry and windy on the way back. It had been a while since I had been in headwinds, so it was good practice for me. At our mid point we stopped off at the Santa Paula Airport restaurant that overlooked the airfield. They were also having an open house and had a couple Military jeeps and such out on display. I rode with Casey Keller most of the day. I learned a lot from him. He serenaded on the way back from Santa Paula singing old TV show theme songs. After the ride we all went to lunch to celebrate Mom & Dad’s 46th Wedding Anniversary. Casey’s wife Vicky was very sweet and brought a cake and balloons for Mom & Dad and all of us to enjoy! Yummy!! This ride is very sentimental to me. It was my first full fledge training ride with the ALC this past February. It was great riding it again.

Back in Gear

2006-11-04T15:34:00.000-08:00

I’m back in gear riding more consistently now. Check out some rides I have recently done:

On Saturday, October 21, 2006, I rode with Santa Monica Bike Attack for their first ride of the ALC 6 season. It was a gorgeous day with perfect weather. The 25 mile ride gave me the opportunity to try out a pair of aero bars, which Beth Parks was so kind to let me borrow. It was an exciting ride filled with new faces.

On Saturday, October 28, 2006, I participated in the ALC official Training Ride Kick-Off at Griffith Park. It was an amazing day. Over 300 riders showed up for this event with all different levels of riding. There were three routes to choose from: The 12 mile, 24 mile and the 35/40 mile. I opted for the 24 mile and spent time with Jeff Rabin a Training Ride Leader. He was giving me lots of tips throughout the route.

On Saturday, November 04, 2006, it was back to Griffith Park for me to ride with the Chain Gang as they threw in a hill to their 24 mile ride. There were lots of new faces for me to see. I got to meet lots of great people including some first time riders. I got to spend some time with Tony Zamudio. I learned a lot from him. I loved watching him and seeing how he related to people. He was a blast to ride with. The hill was only a mile, but it was a reminder for me that I had been off from riding for some time, so I have noted that I need to start adding hills back into my training program.

Tomorrow I am planning on riding with Team Ventura from Fillmore to Santa Paula through the gorgeous orange groves. Yay!!

On The Road Again

2006-10-13T15:00:00.000-07:00

Great news! My doctor has told me that I can start riding my bike again. I am not 100% but I would say that I am at about 90%. I'm still working to get better. Yay!! See you on the road.

2006-10-13T14:14:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I got the opportunity to work with Wolf Adventures, www.wolfadventures.org, helping belay Middle School students up an adventurous climbing wall. The students were amazing, sweet and very well behaved. I was familiar with a lot of the schools that had attended and even saw students from my old Middle School, Sutter! I got to belay them (holding the rope that they are attached to as they climbed) all day long. The students were there as part of a reward program. It was a wonderful experience and the staff was great!

Coming Soon..."Gearing Up" blog site

2006-10-11T11:20:00.000-07:00

I am currently developing a new blog site that focuses on people new to cycling or just looking for some sweet cycling tips, techniques, equipement and products to help improve their performance. Stay tuned for the launch date.

2 New Blog Sites I've Created & Launched- Blog Buddies & Cyclovations

2006-10-10T15:12:00.000-07:00

Blog Buddies- Visit some of my fellow bloggers sites and read what they have to say..... Enjoy! (http://myblogbuddies.blogspot.com/)

and

Cyclovations- Having trouble motivating yourself to go cycling? Hit a wall? Don't want to work out? Cyclovations is a site developed to help cyclists get motivated. Re-kindle that fire and enthusiasm to get back on that saddle and peddle on. (http://cyclovations.blogspot.com/)

Check them out.

Jog Around Lake Balboa

2006-10-03T15:21:00.000-07:00

Wow, I can’t believe that this time last year I had just climbed Mt Whitney and had never heard of the organization AIDS Lifecycle or about the ride itself. Incredible how time flies and how things can happen so fast.

As many of you know my family has had many loses this year. Two of my great uncles past away in January and just a couple weeks ago one of my great aunts passed away as well. Thankfully they lived full lives and died of natural causes. Also, my friend Emily died in June while I was on the ride. With all of this I have been thinking about life and the gifts that it holds.

Last night I went for a jog with my friend Rachel around Lake Balboa. For those of you who don’t know, Lake Balboa is a man made lake that has a 1.3 mile walking path around it. I often go there kayaking as well. It is only 15 minutes from my house and a very nice escape from city life. At Lake Balboa one often forgets that they are still in the city. As we jogged around the lake it was as if we were jogging around the world. There were many different languages and accents, let alone Rachel’s British accent (she is visiting from the UK) heard. There were people doing many different activities, from fishing, flying a kite, walking their dog, cycling, in-line skating, eating, cuddling, young kids playing, chasing and feeding the ducks. It was nature and human kind at its best. It is amazing how a smile can be contagious. The weather was gorgeous. I’m also reminded of how valuable my friends and family are. A huge thank you to Rachel, the girl has an incredibly busy schedule and was able to take time out to spend with me. Thanks Rach!

This summer, I hurt my shoulders and neck which are affecting my back and so can’t ride my road bike (the position I need to be in on a road back puts strain on my neck and shoulders). I am doing my best to take it easy and cross train in the meantime.

This Saturday there was a neighborhood cycling ride that went through the San Fernando Valley and I couldn’t ride in it. I was there in the morning and ran into a fellow ALCer (always a pleasure to see one—its true it is like seeing family). I wanted to cry when the cyclists were herded and released with a police escort and I wasn’t riding with them….through my own neighborhood. Ahh!!….I was quickly humbled. I am seeing a doctor (chiropractor), Dr. Bob. I love him!! Oh my goodness…he is so good. Hopefully with his talent and the cooperation of my body I will be well again and back on a road bike.

In the meantime I am living through the stories of my fellow cyclists and now my family. My uncle Jeff informed me that my Aunt Maria got a road bike and has been riding all over Carson City and the Lake Tahoe area. I am so proud. Go Aunt Maria!! Her spinning class just got back from a cycling tour in Italy. Wow!! OK, that is not on my list of things to do before I die. Also, huge props to my cousin Jon who has been cycling before many of us were very serious about it. Jon has been an inspiration and was in Canada for a cycling competition. He has been competing for years. In a couple weeks my friend from the ride Katie Barth will have completed her 3rd triathlon this summer. Go Katie! That is all for now. I hope that everyone is well.

New Blog- Yummy Recipes!

2006-09-27T19:01:00.000-07:00

Check out my new blog site entitled Yummy Recipes (click title above to view). I'll keep a link to this new blog on this page under "Links" (right side of this page). I hope you enjoy!

Lake Balboa

2006-09-25T20:19:00.000-07:00

Well after having a few months off from riding, making some minor changes to my bike, and getting educated on bike maintenance. I re-established the relationship between my booty and my saddle. I rode 16 miles around one of the bike paths by Lake Balboa. It felt good. I had to stop because the park was closing and it was going to get dark. I felt like such a muffin. I thought with it being fall, it would be cooler, so I was baking in my cycling tights.

I got a new saddle and yes, I got my booty measured to ensure it was the right size for me. I also got a new chain and my first tune-up without a mechanic. So, I wanted to stay close to home incase there were any problems. Just a couple saddle adjustments and I was good to go.

I had really missed riding. It is great to be back in the saddle again…

Stretching with Phase IV

2006-09-23T14:16:00.000-07:00

I have always been taught that stretching is one of the most important parts of my workout program and I love to stretch. So, today I took the Phase IV interactive Stretch Clinic in Santa Monica, CA. Phase IV is a Scientific Training and Performance Center. The clinic was lead by Kent Moody, a Physical Therapist & Director of Clinical Quality Assurance. Kent too has been an athlete (an avid runner for nearly 40 years), so it was perfect learning from someone who has applied his own teaching to his training. It was nice to see such a variety of stretches that help many different types of athletes, from runners, cyclists, swimmers, etc. Now I have even more stretches to incorporate into my workouts.

*(please note illustrations above are not from the class)

Here are the Benefits of Stretching (from the class handout):

1. Stretching prevents injury: Stretching prepares muscles for workouts. Everyday activities, (i.e. sitting at your desk, driving, and standing) leave your muscles tight and susceptible to injury. Stretching before each and every workout prevents injury to tight muscles.

2. Stretching improves performance: By increasing range of motion of bones around a joint, stretching improves the biomechanics of your body. Muscles stretched to 110% of their resting length will contract more powerfully and allow you to perform better.

3. Stretching aids in the recovery process: Muscles are left short and tight after a workout and if left to recover in that state will become permanently shortened. Stretching muscles after workouts “wrings” out the waste products and allows muscles to recover in a lengthened postion.

Future Rides...

2006-09-01T20:41:00.000-07:00

I hope to do more rides this year. Whether they are local, out of state or out of the country I am looking for people who would like to join me. I think it would be so cool to ride though out not just my own state, but my own country and even through parts of the world. So, if you want do a ride or know someone who wants to as well. PLEASE let me know.

I might do the Bay to Bay MS150 Ride in October '06. I believe that it is from Huntington Beach to San Diego, but I am having a little trouble finding people who will commit to doing the ride. Stay tuned to see if I ride...

Cross Training

2006-09-01T20:40:00.000-07:00

Chris R. and I have a sport exchange thing happening. I am getting him into cycling and he is getting me into rock climbing/ bouldering. I have incorporated bouldering into my weekly workout program and hope to join him for rock climbing excursions as well. (btw: that is not me in the photo--I wish it were though)

Speaking of working out, I did stop training and riding for about a month or two, but started back into it this week (I currently have a 2 week trial pass to Ballys and have been going every day). I was going to be working out with someone, but they just decided that they will be moving out of California the end of September. So it will be up to me to stay disciplined on my own. I hope to start riding my bike again on the weekends mid-September, beginning October. Fingers crossed.

I am also considering entering the Santa Clarita 5K in November again. Last year I had gotten within a mile from the start and the car I was traveling in got a flat tire and I missed the run. The year before I had a business trip. So, I might try and do it again this year. Maybe the third times a charm.

Since I love cycling so much I did take a “Comprehensive Bike Maintenance” class at REI a couple weeks ago. It was a huge learning experience and hopefully I can now make more adjustments to my bike on my own.

I’m Ba-ack—With a new look too!

2006-09-01T20:32:00.000-07:00

Wow! I can’t believe that I rode in ALC5 only 3 months ago. It seems like last year. I had family visiting today and they jogged my memories about the ride. My how I miss it. I laughed and nearly cried looking over my past blogs. Funny how at one time when I chipped that bone in my foot, I didn’t think I was going to be able to ride. Thanks to all of you who supported me during that time, especially Julie and Mariann (I miss working out with you guys), Mike E, Chris R and Jaclyn.

Also a HUGE thank you to all of you who supported me both financially and emotionally before, during and after the ride. Thank you also for the emails, flowers, phone calls, cards, etc that you sent me congratulating me on my ride. You all are so awesome!

I’ve spent the summer hanging with friends doing things that I hadn’t gotten a chance to do. I spent my birthday in Monterey and enjoyed riding my bike around the Bay. The summer was also filled with jet skiing, mini reunions with fellow cyclists and occasional visits to the ALC office to visit the amazing ALC staff. I did ride with Team Ventura a few times and even had the pleasure of having my friend and co-worker Chris R join me in my training.

It has been an emotional summer, dealing with the highs of the ride and then the sadness of it being over. It is very true, you change and grow as a person on this ride. I also miss the camaraderie of my fellow cyclists. One of the things I miss most aside from riding, is my tent mate Tsufit. I miss our late night talks and giggling right before lights out. She is such a sweetheart. She is still safe living in Israel. My thoughts have been with her and her family amidst the war going on there. Thank you to those who never met her, but yet still ask how she is doing.

I Did It!

2006-06-13T19:39:00.000-07:00

Yup! I made it! I am alive and well. I arrived at the VA Center in Brentwood at approach 1:15pm on Saturday. The views through Ventura and along the Malibu Coast were breath taking. We had lunch at the Malibu Lagoon. It was so cool to be in familiar territory. We were all so excited, but also very sad that it was almost over. I got to ride in with a few of the people that I had trained with Scott, Katie and Steven. It was so incredible. We couldn't believe that it was the last day. It was very surely. We made it up all the hills and even those that we didn't expect. The crowds lines up along the streets as we got closer to the VA Center really pushed us up those last couple of hills.

Closing ceremonies was awesome. The emotions didn't hit me until Chris Cole bid farewell and said that he hoped to see us all next year. The 4 of us just started to cry. It was very sad to realize that this journey we had just done was over. I felt very empty, but yet full of stories and a new knowledge.

As I was riding I was trying to put into words my experience. It was very difficult. The best way I can describe it was being in the Rose Parade for seven days. It was an incredible high. There were school children out cheering us on. People holding up signs as we go by saying things like, "You are my hero", "Because of you I'm alive" and "You've changed my life". School children handing us letters calling us hero's and role models. It was very overwhelming feeling, but a good humbling feeling too. I felt as if I hadn't really done anything, but raise money and got a bike. Towns came out to greet us. I have formed bonds with people and had amazing conversations with people, whom I do not know if they will be alive to see them next year. This experience was definitely a life changing experience and one that I will never forget. I already miss my fellow cyclists and the staff. The most amazing staff I've ever met. Wow!! Words cannot express my compassion and how thankful I am to them all.

The candle light vigil on Friday was very moving. It was incredible to see so many people who affected by someone with Aids.

Many people have asked me if I am going to do the ride again next year. The answer is I would do it in a heartbeat if I could get the time off. I am already experiencing separation anxiety from my fellow cyclists. I miss the giggling of my tent mate Tsufit, the staff cheering us on as we ride in each day, the voice and a hug from my Cycle Buddy- Kerry each night, Sheri (my own personal space heater)-- That girl can radiate!, Andy's (tent neighbor) sweet voice greeting us good morning, Scott's humor--he could make even the worst situation funny, Steven's smile and oh, my god, that boy smelled so good all the time, Katie's smile and the challenge to keep up with her on the route (that girl is like lightening). Kim singing to us and telling us riddles up the hills. Heather and her finding her inner gerbil. I must admit though, I have enjoyed my nice long showers and flushing toilets.

I want to thank everyone for your support both during my training an during the ride. I thought of many of you while riding.Thank you also, for following my little journey. It has been fun and I hope that you enjoyed coming along for the ride. I could not have done it with out you. Thank you again.

I hope to have some pictures for you soon so please check back in a couple days.....

Day 6

2006-06-09T23:08:00.000-07:00

The view coming down the coast from camp Lompoc to camp Ventura was gorgeous. Most of the 84 miles were along route 101 that runs parallel to the Pacific Ocean. D was very excited to be in Ventura, finally a beach she recognizes.
Our phone call was very short because of all the things on the agenda for the Night 6 in Ventura's silent candlelight procession on the beach.
Tomorrow's ride will be 61 miles and will end at the Wadsworth Theatre Grounds, Lot #7, at the Department of Veterans Affairs, 11301 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, Ca 90025. Closing ceremonies will begin at 4 pm and last about 1 hour. If you are planning to go there will be special parking in lots #6 and #2 and the parking fee will be $7.00 per vehicle.
Deanne's Dad and I will be there to welcome the group to L.A.
Hopefully the next blog on this site will be from Lady D herself.
It's been fun.
D' Mom.

Day 5

2006-06-09T00:09:00.000-07:00

Today's ride was 45 miles. There were a lot of hills. One hill had a 2 mile climb. Hills are not Deanne's favorite part of the ride. When I asked how she was doing she said "I'm still alive". That was nice to hear.
Today was the traditional "red dress day" where, as you can imagine, everyone tries to wear some sort of red outfit. I hear that there were some pretty funny get ups.
Tonight's camp is set up in Lompoc where they had a talent show and some guest speakers. The lights out curfew at 9:30 pm makes for a lot of last minute scrambling but everyone is glad to turn in since they have to get up around 4:00 am every day. Tents need to be broken down and luggage needs to be packed and ready to be loaded up for the trip to the next camp site.
The ride consists of somewhere around 1,800 bikers and about 450 roadies. Thats a lot of people, tents, and equipment to coordinate. Sounds like the ALC staff and orginizeers know what they are doing. All the roadies have several jobs. Tsufit, Deanne's tent mate, helps man road stop #2 each day. D says that Tsufit wears a different costume each day. It's all part of the fun attitude everyone seems to have.
I'm sure Deanne will have lots more to share when she gets home on Saturday.
Tomorrow night is a candle light vigil on the beach, in Ventura, to honor those that have died or are suffering from this dreadful disease. It is a very moving and solmen event.
Well, as for tonight, that's all folks.
D's mom

Day 4

2006-06-07T22:49:00.000-07:00

Deanne and her friends celebrated crossing the half way point, from San Francisco to LA , at 9:30 this morning. They still had about 56.5 miles to go making the total for today 99 miles. Haven't heard from her since 9:30 am so can't give any more up dates for today. She probably was a little tired after being so sick yesterday. Today's camp should be in Santa Maria. The temperature was supposed to be pretty warm this afternoon.
Until tomorrow...
D's mom.

Day 3

2006-06-06T21:06:00.000-07:00

Up early and had breakfast at 4:45 am. Left camp at 6:30 am. Rode 19 miles to the first rest stop, after being sick several times. D got a ride to the medic tent to find out that she, along with several other people, had food poisoning. She spent the entire day in the medic tent (2- I V bags) with lots of other people, many of whom also ate the fruit salad. Deanne was released from the medic tent at 3:30 pm and was glad that she didn't have to go to the hospital like some of the others. She was very grateful to the nurses who were so attentive, especially Marie, one of RNs that was on duty all day. D ate dinner and says she feels fine. She has to be checked out tomorrow morning before she can continue the ride but is anxious to get back on the course.
Hope tomorrw is a better day.
D's mom.

Day 2

2006-06-05T23:15:00.000-07:00

Today was a very long day having left the camp (in Santa Cruz) at 7:30 am. The 106 miles, while quite beautiful, were difficult because of several hills and very windy conditions. Deanne managed to stop and have the traditional fried artichokes and visit the cookie person. These vendors set up along the route and as I said it is the tradition.
Deanne was riding with a women that was having difficulties because of a bad leg so they were somewhat behind most of the group. When her friend finally decided to catch a ride back to camp Deanne had to hustle to get to the camp in King City. She rode her bike into camp at
6:50 pm. 7:00 pm is the cut off point where they come looking for you. Thank goodness for her tent mate (Tsufit) who had the tent setup and even went with Deanne to dinner to keep her company while she ate.
Although D's knees are giving her a lot of pain, so far they have been taking turns being sore. Thank goodness for Advil.
9:30 is lights out, hopefully D's pain won't keep her awake too long. The weather was a little cool tonight.
Until tomorrow...

D's mom.

Day 1

2006-06-04T22:03:00.000-07:00

Saturday was check in day and bike drop off at the Cow Palace and was a very hectic day.
Not having heard from Deanne yesterday,Saturday, we were getting a little worried, but felt much better after her call tonight.
ALCS Opening Ceremonies check in time was at 5:30 this morning (Sunday). Deanne fell asleep early last night and didn't have a chance to set her alarm. She woke at 5:15 am and had to scramble to get everything together and walk the 2 blocks to the Cow Palace (w/an enormous suitcase in tow) arriving at 5:33 am...well done D.
There were a lot of press, cameras, TV crews and oh ya, a lot of bike riders when the ride began at 6:30 am.
The 1st day's ride was 79 miles and ended in Santa Cruz where a very organized camp had been set up. After showers, a delicious dinner, and a quick birthday party for one of the riders it was lights out at 9:30 pm.
D's having a great time and making new friends. The temperature was already climbing as they rode just a few miles out of San Francisco. They were hoping the heat would hold off until they got further down the coast.
Tomorrow's ride will be 105 miles.
That's all for tonight.
D's mom

Arrived in San Francisco

2006-06-02T22:12:00.000-07:00

Arrived in San Francisco about 4:30 p.m. thanks to the fantastic driving of Beth. Beth, Chris and I traveled in a van with 4 bikes and gear.
Was glad to see so many friends from team Long Beach and team Ventura.
Was pleasantly surprised to find my neighbors at the motel are none other than "Mom" and "Dad" from team Ventura.
Left the San Fernando Valley this morning where the temperature was promising to be near 100 and arrived in San Francisco to a cool 68 and overcast. Not clear enough for even a picture of the Cow Palace that is near my motel, Maybe tomorrow.

D's mom.

Opening & Closing Ceremonies

2006-05-30T17:18:00.000-07:00

If you are interested in attending Opening or Closing Ceremonies for the AIDS/ Lifecycle 5. Click on the link below for details. Thank you and hope to see you there.
http://www.aidslifecycle.org/ceremonies.html

Site Updates During My Ride

2006-05-30T16:58:00.000-07:00

Well, time is ticking away... and it is almost time for me to head up to San Francisco to start my ride down the coast. I am all packed and ready to go. The nerves have kicked in and I am getting very anxious. I have been talking with my fellow cyclists and we are all feeling the same way. The ALC-LA staff have made their trek up to SF today and my tent mate, Tsufit, has left Tel Aviv, Israel and is heading to LAX as I type this. I have met her on IM, but we will meet for the first time face to face in SF (she is a good friend of my Cycle Buddy Kerry). Tsufit, will be a Roadie (she was one last year too). For the rest of us, it is a waiting game, counting down the hours to our departure.

I have good news! I will be able to update my site http://www.go-girl.blogsite.com/ while on my ride. I will try and update it (either via my cell phone, via my Mom or both) each night. You can also follow the event at http://experience.aidslifecycle.org/ . The Experience the Ride link will show written travelogues, audio podcasts, event photos, and other blogs of our event. At this link you can even send me a message as well. So make sure to check back each night starting Saturday, June 3rd to see what is happening on my ride to help end AIDS/ HIV.

Please note that if I use my cell phone the messages will be rather small. I need to conserve battery life, since I will not be able to charge my phone.

Past Ride Photo Update

2006-05-27T16:16:00.000-07:00

Check out my Tour of Two Rivers and Simi Ojai Century Ride blogs below. I've added some pictures from those 2 rides. Enjoy!

Santa Monica Bike Attack Celebration 11.? miles

2006-05-27T16:04:00.000-07:00

In a week I'll be in San Francisco... Can you believe it? Today I rode the Santa Monica Bike Attack Celebration Ride. It was a celebration of the end of months training. Dave and Sarah, our cycle leaders, were so good to us. We all got little goodie bags that contained some very valuable goodies that we can use on our big ride. A big suprise was my Cycle Buddy Kerry and the ALC Assistant Director Sheri rode along with us as well. It was great to see Scott, Stephen, Keith, Sonia, Kim, Heather and Drew again. Sonia brought her two boys and her oldest Tyler (12yrs) got to ride with us. There were many others that rode that were such a pleasure to meet too. After our quick ride to the marina and back it was off to brunch. We all sat together sharing stories of past training rides, fears about the upcoming ride, where we are staying and how we are getting up to SF. It was so much fun. We really have become like family.

Left, the Bike Attack boys....

Left, Sonia and I

Details on my Departure

2006-05-21T17:50:00.000-07:00

My wonderful Cycle Buddy Kerry hooked me up with her Posse and so I will be going up to San Francisco via car on Friday, June 2nd at approximately 8:00 am. Yay!! I can’t believe that the ride is almost here. I have spent the whole of 2006 up to this point preparing for this ride. I am excited, nervous, anxious and scared. I’ll have so many stories to tell and I can’t wait to tell them.

Santa Susanna Pass

2006-05-21T17:46:00.000-07:00

Well, today I drove all the way to Ventura to find that the Ventura to Carpentaria was canceled. I didn’t let that stop me from riding. I knew that I needed to practice my hill climbing (hills are by far my weakness). I remember that Bob Mohme, my angel from the Simi Ojai Century Ride, assigned hill climbing for my homework. Well, Bob, mission accomplished. I climbed the Santa Susanna Pass today. The Santa Susanna Pass is a road that goes up, over and cuts through the mountains between Simi Valley and the West San Fernando Valley. Yay, I felt very good after I climbed over, down and then turned around and did it all over again in reverse.

Next week I do plan on doing at least one more ride, then it is off to San Francisco.

Nutrition & Hydration

2006-05-21T17:43:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, May 17 I had my last ALC workshop. I learned and was reminded that I need to take better care of myself with what I put in. I definitely need to drink more water and eat better. Time to start home cooking more again too. The workshop was very motivational and I learned that chocolate milk is a great recovery drink after a hard ride. Who would have thought?

Farewell to ALC Staff…Sniff..sniff

2006-05-21T17:37:00.000-07:00

It was a bit of a sad night for me. I took this night as being the last night that I would see the staff this year. They are usually working so diligently behind the scenes during the ride that we never see them the whole week. The “fab” four as they are known, Pam, Kerry, Sheri and Sarah have all made such a difference in my life and my ride. Each one has helped to sculpt me and give me the tools and skills I need in order to successfully do this ride. A huge thank you to them all!

Pam, made me see the true reason for the ride, the cause, how bad the Aids/ HIV epidemic was and her true compassion for it. Her cute cheers and smiles at the holiday and kick off party and her joyful energy and charisma was just so contagious. After being around her and hearing her stories I could wait to get on my bike and ride.

Kerry, my wonderful Cycle Buddy and mentour was my compass. She lead me into the directions that I needed to go and helped to prepare me phyically. She told me where to go for everything from equipment to rides to advice about life. She took me under her wing, showing me what Aids Lifecycle was all about and introduced me to her friends and continued to check in on me weekly to here how my week and training had gone. She taught me never to purchase anything at full price. She also acted as my sound board hearing all of the challenges I was faces both on and off the bike.

Sheri’s, big smile and soft voice was my confirmation when I was in question or in doubt about the ride. She encouraged me and calmed my nerves about the 585 miles that were ahead of me. Just seeing her familiar face was comforting.

Sarah, oddly one of the staff that I had the least contact with had the biggest impact. She taught me the heart and attitude of the ride...by her example. I swear I could listen to her talk all day, and have recently loved reading her blogs (check them out at www.aidslifecycle.org/7). Her heart is so big and she is so genuine. I had given up hope that people like her still existed. Her attitude from the first day I met her, set an example to me of how an ALCers should act and be. She is very knowledgeable and her thirst and compassion for the cause and for people is truly inspiring and has been a huge motivator for me. One of the few regrets that I have had being involved with the ALC, is that I didn’t get to know her better. I feel that there is so much more to learn from her. That is why it was perfect that my last workshop was lead by her.

I'm going to miss the staff tremendously.

Bike Fit

2006-05-21T17:36:00.000-07:00

I finally got a proper bike fit, thanks to Jaime at I Martin. Yay!! It was about time. I had my seat raised and had the stem on my handlebars switched out. My handle bars are closer to me now. I now have a better range in my peddle stroke as well.

Night Ride

2006-05-16T08:21:00.000-07:00

Just went for a quick little 14 mile night ride with a friend last night (5-15-06) through the valley (on a bike path). I love riding at night. I am starting to wind down from my training so that I can give my body a chance to get stronger for the ride.

A lot of us can’t wait for the ride. We are so excited, nervous, anxious and terrified all at the same time. Only 18 days until I leave for San Francisco. Tonight I have a bike fit with one of our sponsors I Martin. My knees have been hurting me, so hopefully they will make some adjustments to my bike so that there are no more problems. Tomorrow I have a seminar and I’ll be doing another ride on Sunday though…so check back for all the deets.

Tour of Two Rivers – 117.5 miles

2006-05-15T18:59:00.000-07:00

I joined team Different Spokes for the Tour of Two Rivers ride on Sunday, May 14th. It was so good to see familiar faces, such as Heather, Tye, Katie and Stephen. There were about 15 of us total. It was suppose to be 97.6 miles. We all met in Azusa and headed out in hopes of seeing Huntington Beach and having lunch at near the pier.

All was well until we got to Fullerton and realized that we could not find a street called Wilshire, so we ended up flagging down a Police Officer to get directions after cycling around for a while in search of the street. We found ourselves back on the correct route, but were realizing that the route map was wrong yet again, when the bike path we were suppose to take the rest of the way towards the ocean ended (I think we were in Anaheim). We flagged down yet another Police Officer where he was attending to a car accident, got directions and were back on the correct path again, until the bike path split into 2 directions. With several people on the phone and others scouting out the options, Timmy (a former Boys Scout) recommended that we following the current of the river which he believed would lead us to the ocean. Ahh, Timmy was correct and we reached PCH. But once on PCH, we did not know which way to turn to find Main Street. Luckily Tye had been in the area before and thought that we should turn right. He was correct and we headed on PCH towards Main Street.

During some indecisive route options we lost a few people from the group, but luckily our tummies think a like (we were starving & there were tons of resturants) and we ran into a few of them at the restaurant that we picked to eat at. We had not seen Katie or Stephen for the longest time and I began to worry. Funny thing as we were putting our bikes on PCH to head back (A different way from the way we came) up came riding Katie and Stephen. I was so happy to see them. We got them some water and we were together on our way back.

We were planning to ride PCH to the bike path and ride it all the way back. Simple right? Wrong! The bike path ended before we came anywhere near our ending point. Again a bunch of us got on the phones, while others scouted out the area. I called my dad (who was in Arizona with a friend who lived in a nearby city) to see if they could help us. They told us to head north and so we did. Just when we thought that we were home free, we had trouble finding the Arrow Hwy exit from the bike path (the bike path ran along a river). We were off by one street but were still able to find the main street that lead to the parking lot that we were all parked at.

When we rolled in, we heard the park ranger announcing that the park was closing in 2 minutes. Talk about cutting it close! We all rushed to get out bikes and gear packed up. What a day, I am calling this ride the Tale of Two Rivers. It was awesome to bond with my fellow cyclists. We had a blast, stuck together, and worked together as a team to get ourselves home, no arguing, no tempers, no drama. It was fun! I hope that I get to ride with these people in June.

ALC 101

2006-05-15T18:57:00.000-07:00

On Saturday May 13th I attended ALC 101 at Griffith Park lead by my Cycle Buddy, Kerry Castillo and Assistant Director-LA Sheri Lunn. They answered questions and told us what to bring and what not to pack, information about orientation day (June 3rd), etc. Kerry even showed me some tricks on how to put up and take down a tent. It is amazing how tight she can fold a tent. She makes it look like it just came out of a brand new box. Many notes were made that day.

Back from Florida

2006-05-15T18:54:00.000-07:00

I survived my business trip and it was a work hard play hard trip. I had never been to Florida, so when I wasn’t working I was venturing out to many part of Florida. I figured I could sleep when I got back to So Cal. I got to get to know some of my co-workers real well and had a blast. We went to South Beach, Miami, Ft Lauderdale (saw part of an air and sea show & the Blue Angels), Pompano Beach, The Everglades (rode on an air boat), The Keys, including Key West, and lots more. Oh, and we saw Shaquile O’Neal—saw where Madanna, Rosie O’Donnel, P Diddy, Shaq, etc have their houses. One of my co-workers has a boat and took us from South Miami to the heart of Miami. That was so much fun. So now I am trying to catch up on sleep.

Santa Monica Star Map Tours Ride -33 Miles

2006-04-30T16:11:00.000-07:00

As if yesterdays Simi/Ojai Century ride wasn't enough, I got up this morning for the Santa Monica Star Map Tours Ride -33 Miles. The ride started in West Hollywood and went through such cities as Beverly Hills, Brentwood and Santa Monica. The ride ended at the Santa Monica Pier. It was a cool and overcast. This ride did have its share of hills. The hardest for me was the hill up Bundy. I was so fatigued from yesterday, that I struggled a bit, but made it up it. The ride from San Vicente to Ocean was amazing. It was amazing to see some of the posh houses on such gorgeous and well groomed streets. It was a blast.

I am going away on a business trip to Florida for a week, so no training rides for this coming weekend.

Simi/ Ojai Century Ride- 100 miles

2006-04-30T15:27:00.000-07:00

Yup! I decided to do the Simi/ Ojai Century ride on Saturday 4/29/06 and I've lived to tell about it. Many people have told me that this ride is harder than any day on our ride in June. It was filled with hills, hills and more hills. Four large ones (o.k. 2 but we went up and down them on the way there and on the way back). We met at the Simi Regal movie theater parking lot and headed through simi towards Moorpark. The weather was overcast and cool. Everything was going well until I was almost to the top of Grimmes Canyon, when I noticed I had a flat tire, then another, and another and yet another. Four flat tires within 10 miles. Heather my cycle partner for the day was nice enough to stay back with me and Bob one of our ALC training leaders was amazing. Bob helped me with my tires situation and even knew of a bike shop in Santa Paula which we ended up stopping at to get the tires checked, not to mention new tubes. Then we were back on the path to Ojai.

There were so many breath taking views. Everything was so green and beautiful. The orange groves between Filmore and Santa Paula were gorgeous. We arrived at the Summit a resturant at the top of Ojai Rd before decending into Ojai. Some of the views that we saw coming down into Ojai reminded me of New Zealand's rowling greeen hills. We stopped at a park were Team Venture training leaders Mom & Dad had an amazing picnic set up for us in the park. We filled our water bottles and camelbaks and filled our tummies. Mom & Dad were so sweet and a joy to see.

We took off for the ride home back towards Simi. I was doing well until we hit Grimmes Canyon. I "bonked" "hit a wall" and was so exhausted that I walked my bike up most of the way up the hill--two-thirds from the top I was "SAG'd up to the top by one of the cycle leader's wives who had a mini van and picked me up and drove me to the rest stop at the top of the hill. After refuling, eating and having a little rest, we were back on our way towards home. On our way into Moorpark I noticed a a WWI fighter biplane and a WWII fighter plane were circling about our heads. They were flying really low so we got to see them pretty closely. We then went through old town Moorpark on our way back to Simi. We had finally made it back to the car. (photo is of a turn on Grimmes Canyon)

I have to give big props to Bob and Heather. Bob taught both Heather and I about climbing, decending, proper bike fit, etc during our ride. It was like having our own private instructor on the climb. He was so laid back with all the strange things that happened on our ride and was just amazing. Heather, was my cheerleader and constant support. This was my third ALC training ride with her and she was a huge help and a sweetheart.

One thing that I am noticing with each ride, is that everyone is so laid back. Not competitive and very very giving and helpful. If one ALCer is down 5-10 stop to help. Amazing. I am glad to be a part of this group.

A huge thank you to those of you who were on call for me on Saturday. I am very thankful that you were available for me and I am glad that I did not need to call on you to pick me up on my route.

ALC's "Day of the Ride"- 81.6 Miles

2006-04-23T13:46:00.000-07:00

Wow, talk about a wake up call! I survived ALC's "Day of the Ride"; which is a day in the life of what an actual day in June will be like. We rode from Santa Monica to Long Beach and back- 81.6 miles. It was a gorgeous overcast day...and the crew, staff and riders were all so friendly. It definitely felt like a family. I made friends instantly and we formed our own little crew composed of Sonia, Heather, Gwen and myself. We were whooping, cheering and having a blast supporting and cheering each other on. We even made friends with other groups such as Scott & Katie. They were a blast!!

The first & last 45 miles were very similar to the last 2 training rides I had done with the Santa Monica Bike Attack team--we went through the same areas. The familiarity was nice. But, can you say hills? For a newbie like me who really hadn't conquered many big hills, it was a large wake-up call. Not to mention I got me first flat tire and found that I was riding on it for a chunk of the ride. The reward from climbing those huge hills paid off when the downhill portion came. I clocked myself on my cycle computer at 42 miles per hour. Wow!! I hit the brakes at that point and slowed down.

Our first rest area was at Veteran's Park where we overlooked the ocean. It was an amazing site and the sun was shining. But an even more amazing site was at Point Fermin Park where we stopped for lunch. The cliffs and rocks over looking the ocean were extraordinary. It started to get cold and windy at this point in the ride. It seemed that no matter which direction we were traveling the wind was always blowing towards us. We had 4 rest areas with water, gatorade, and snacks. It was nice to be able to stop about every 20 miles to rehydrate and refuel. The orange slices were amazing.

The ride got scary when our team saw one of our members, Sonia, collided with another rider and fell into a traffic lane. Amazingly everyone was fine and the bikes were fine too, but it was a quick reality check of just how easy it is for an accident to happen. We are constantly riding along on streets with traffic and watching out for each other with voice and hand signals, but even with all that things can still happen.

The finish line was right back where we started and Bike Attack, a platinum sponsor for the ALC, had a party afterwards with lots of food from California Pizza Kitchen. Needless to say we were all very hungry.

I am recovering today. My knees, back, quads and neck hurt, but with the help of ibupofin and Arnica Gel I am doing well. Spent the day running around doing errands and housekeeping. I hardly slept last night--the adrenaline was still running. I did a huge jump from a 23 mile ride to a 40 mile to a 45 mile to a 81.6 mile all within a month and my body is in good condition.

Next weekend I am thinking about doing the Simi Century Ride with Team Ventura. The ride is from Simi Valley to Ojai via Grimes Canyon (ouch very long steep windy hills) and back- 100 miles total. After yesterdays ride I am trying to figure out if I will be able to handle it. I am going to play it by ear this week and see...stay tuned to see if I do it.

The photo above is me at the first rest area, wearing the Bike Attack jersey. Also, be sure to check out the photo below from my LA Acura Ride (under the "How Have I Been Training" blog). I've updated the picture. It is me at the starting line at 5:00 am...and yes that is my beautiful bike in both photos.

Santa Monica Bike Attacked Again- 45 miles

2006-04-15T17:42:00.000-07:00

Well, I couldn't resist, I joined the Santa Monica Bike Attack Team again this week (4-15-06). There was a total of 7 of us lead by David Bain (#7969) and Sarah Sypniewski (#7) (photo above). Sarah is my cycle buddy #2 and showed me on my first ride how to change a flat. I hope that I never have to use what she taught me. Our ride was the same as last week but with an extension. We continued on a hill that circled around Palos Verdes Golf Course. The hill was unforgetable and one that I had never experienced. Steep up hill climbs that would turn and bend. The weather wasn't as enjoyable as last week. We encoutered drizzle but no true rain. But it was a blast! Photo left is from today's ride along the bike path. I believe that is Leo in the photo.

Next Saturday (4-22-06) is a mock ALC Day of The Ride and a whopping 78 miles. Tune in next week to see if I survive.

Mammoth Trip- Cross Training

2006-04-15T17:25:00.000-07:00

This past week I went to Mammoth. Yay!! Can you believe it I finally learned how to snow ski (thanks to my friend Lisa). It wasn't that hard either. I skiied on Monday- got 12 runs in (on the bunny slopes of course). On Tuesday I snowboarded (6 runs-still on the bunny slopes). This was my second time snowboarding. I had gone once before about 2 years ago. The snow conditions on Tuesday were not as good as we had hoped but we got a few hours in. My favorite part was hitting the little mini jumps/ bumps. There are about 6 of them on the bunny slopes and they were a blast. Can't wait to go again.

SANTA MONICA Bike Attack Ride

2006-04-08T15:11:00.000-07:00

Hey, guess what? I finished my first 40 miler today (4-8-06) through the South Bay. There were about 13 of us (I think). We started at Bike Attack, a cycle shop in Santa Monica and a big ALC sponsor, and rode along the beach and some side streets through: Santa Monica, Venice, El Segundo, Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach to Palos Verdes (and all those other cities in between). Our mid point and where we took our break was at the base of Palos Verde, in Malaga Cove (see picture). The whole ride was gorgeous! We saw the ocean, surfers, volleyball players, the UCLA rowing team competing, a hang gliding class, tons of sail boats, and the beautiful So Cal coast. The day was sunny and absolutely perfect for a bike ride. The people I rode with were fun, friendly and I saw some familiar faces. For those of you wondering, yes my foot is still attached. It was really hurting me by the end of the ride. (FYI, that is not my bike in the photo.)

Foot Update

2006-03-21T20:01:00.000-08:00

As many of you have heard I chipped the bone on the top of my foot while training for my ride. Good news, it is not a fracture & I have received clearance from my doctor to continue training and I will be able to participate in ALC5. Although it hurts like crazy (it feels like someone is trying to pry my bones apart with a knife--thank goodness for medication), I can't do anymore damage while training. I am learning patience during this time and am trying to take it easy. Each week I am feeling better and am noticing a difference. Thank you all for your warm wishes to a speedy recovery as I continue to train.

How Have I Been Training?

2006-03-21T19:28:00.000-08:00

Newest Events on Top

12th Annual LA Acura Bike Tour-My most exiting ride so far would have to be the 12th Annual LA Acura Bike Tour that I participated in this past Sunday (March 19th). I woke up at 3:30am to get ready and drive to LA for our 5:50 am bike tour through the streets of LA (the Acura Ride took place on the morning before the LA Marathon). It was so exciting riding with 14,000+ other cyclists…o.k. and chaotic too. Being from LA it had a special meaning for me. It was unforgettable.

Porter Ranch Ride-Sunny SoCal hasn’t been so sunny, but I got to ride from my house to Porter Ranch for a quick 10 mile ride in between rain storms.

Women's Workshop-I got the opportunity to attend a women’s workshop at Helen’s Bike Shop in Manhattan Beach, CA. I got a chance to meet other women who were participating in the June event as well as bike vendors who were targeting women in the cycling industry (women specific cycling gear is very new to the market—we no longer have to borrow from the boys). The day was filled with workshops and seminars.

Fillmore to Santa Paula-Ready to join other ACLers I joined Team Ventura for my first 22 mile ride. Amazing! Team Ventura welcomed me with open arms as we rode from Fillmore to Santa Paula. We passed through a very hilly area surrounded by orange groves. It was gorgeous and the people I rode with were friendly and fun. This ride gave me a gauge of my fitness level—which was better than I had expected.

Simi Metro to 23-Feeling confident on my new bike I ventured out on my first 18 mile ride from the Simi Valley Metro Station to the 23 freeway and back. I experienced my first hill. Wow, I survived.

ALC Kick-Off Party-I attended the ALC5 kick-off party and got pumped up for the event.

Lake Balboa-I got to test drive my bike at Lake Balboa bike path…it was lovely…

Bike Purchase-Next I purchased my very first road bike—a Specialized Dolce 2005 (candy apple red)—it is a women’s specific bike and I love her!!

First ALC Workshop-I attended my first ALC5 workshop in Griffith Park, where I met my Cycle Buddy Kerry Castillo for the first time. She went over all the gear, rules, how to change a tire, etc that I needed to know for the ALC ride. We then went for my first training ride around Griffith Park.

ALC Holiday Party-I attended the ALC Holiday Party and met some fellow ALCers
Personal Trainer-I started out training for Mt Whitney with my personal trainer Julie Gentleman and continue to do so for the ALC5 ride as well. I had been working our with Julie and another girl called Mariann twice a week, Tuesdays & Thursdays and we have now expanded to three times a week, Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. I currently ride my bike to Julie’s house and back for every workout (8 miles round-trip).

How You Can Help

2006-03-21T18:44:00.000-08:00

In order to be able to ride, I need to raise $2,500. Please visit my ALC5 Web Site to make a donation today. Thank you. http://www.aidslifecycle.org/7107

Life on the Road & in Camp

2006-03-21T18:18:00.000-08:00

Cycling Hours -- (except for the last day) are from 6:30am to 7:00pm. Each Rest Stop will have specific hours of operation each day. Roadie teams will also start "sweeping" the route each evening at approximately 6:30pm; if we're past the lunch stop and they judge that we won’t make it to camp before dark, they'll pick us up and bring you into camp.

Route Support -- includes rest stops with food, drinks, bike mechanics, medical support and toilet facilities at frequent intervals, a lunch stop at about mid-day, and sweep vehicles throughout the route (in case we really need to be picked up).

Medical Team -- a full-service medical team will be available on the route, at rest stops and at camp to take care of whatever is aching.
Weather -- California in June is pretty reliable, but we will ride in any weather, so we will be prepared for heat, cold, and wet. In extreme cases we may make the decision to be "Storm Bound" for safety's sake -- evacuation sites will have been prearranged and we'll be bussed there until the weather clears.

Tents -- will be supplied. We can choose our own tent mate or the ALC will assign one to us -- yes, we have to share – We will need to learn how to set them up and take them down, but the ALC staff will teach us how to do it and they will carry them during the day.

Gear – we will be limited to one 70-pound gear bag, including our sleeping bag.

Food – we will be served a hot breakfast and dinner daily in camp, plus a bagged lunch and plenty of snacks.

Showers & Wash-Up Facilities -- all camps will have separate men's & women's showers (hot ones!) and sink/mirror areas for washing up & brushing your teeth. There will also be plenty of clean toilet facilities -- got to love those porta potties.

Cycle Parking -- Cycle parking areas are safe and overnight security is provided -- no bike locks will be needed.

Entertainment -- will be provided each night (but we can't rule out karaoke, skits, or charades!) Spontaneous singing on the hills while riding is greatly encouraged and appreciated!!

from: www.aidslifecycle.org

The Ride Itinerary

2006-03-21T18:02:00.000-08:00

A lot of you have asked me for my itinerary for the week of my ride so, here it is...

June 2--Get up to San Francisco (don't know how yet). Staying at the Alpine Inn across from The Cow Palace.

June 3--Orientation Day: The Cow Palace
Cow Palace 2600 Geneva Ave Daly City , CA 94014

June 4--Opening Ceremonies: The Cow Palace
Cow Palace 2600 Geneva Ave Daly City , CA 94014

June 4--Camp 1 Harvey West Park, Santa Cruz--79.3 miles
Harvey West Park 326 Evergreen Street Santa Cruz , CA 95060

June 5--Camp 2 San Lorenzo County Park, King City--105.4 miles
San Lorenzo County Park 1160 Broadway, King City , CA 93930

June 6--Camp 3 Mid State Fairgrounds, Paso Robles--75.2 miles
Mid State Fairgrounds 2198 Riverside Ave Paso Robles, CA 93447

June 7--Camp 4 Preisker Park, Santa Maria--98.7 miles
Preisker Park 2301 Preisker Ln Santa Maria, CA 93458

June 8--Camp 5 River Park, Lompoc--43.5 miles
Sweeney Rd & Hwy 246 Lompoc, CA 93436

June 9--Camp 6 San Buenaventura State Beach, Ventura--84.1 miles
San Buenaventura State Beach 901 San Pedro St Ventura, CA 93001

June 10--Closing Ceremonies: VA Center, Los Angeles (near Brentwood)--60.8 miles VA Center 11301 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles , CA 90025

*All sites and daily mileage subject to change.
from: www.aidslifecycle.org

How Did I Get Involved With ALC5?

2006-03-21T17:54:00.000-08:00

Last Fall, my friend Lisa, whom I had just met, and I were talking about what I had been up to. I told her that I had just climbed Mt Whitney and I began to tell her about my trip. She told me that she had a trip that was similar to my Whitney trip and it was the AIDS Ride. She told me about the ride through California and how beautiful and spectacular the views were. Being a native Californian I thought how cool it would be for me to be able to say I rode my bike through a huge chunk of my state. I had already decided at that moment that it was something that I had to do, but needed more information.

I attended one of the ALC5 orientation meetings and met Pam an ACL staff member who had done the ride in the past and was so passionate about the cause. I really didn’t know that much about AIDS/ HIV. I had never met anyone that I knew of who had the disease. I realized right away that the people at ALC5 seemed really genuine. I cannot forget at the ALC5 orientation meeting while watching a video of a past ride seeing tears in Pam’s eyes as we all watched the video together. I knew that this was something I had to do and I signed up that day.

As the orientation continued, I was quickly educated on the severity of the AIDS/HIV. Up to this point I had only learned about it in health class. There was a gentleman who was attending the orientation and hearing his story made my heart melt. Suddenly I was no longer riding to see the beauty of California but for a cause.

As time went buy and I began my fundraising venture I found that my ride changed yet again. I found that one of my acquaintances that I had known for a few years is living with HIV. Suddenly I had a face to match what I am riding.

What is the ALC?

2006-03-21T17:09:00.000-08:00

Good Question.

AIDS/LifeCycle ...Here are the 8 "It"s of the ALC
from www.aidslifecycle.org:

1. It will take place June 4-10, 2006, as cyclists and volunteers will travel 585 miles through beautiful California from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

2. It is the official cycling event of the San Francisco AIDS Foundation.

3. It is about HIV & AIDS, and about raising money to help the beneficiaries continue to provide the critical services and education needed to meet the growing needs of our community.

4. It increases awareness and knowledge about HIV/AIDS among participants, their donors and the general public.
5. It addresses the widespread misperception that HIV disease and AIDS are no longer a problem -- in fact more people are living with HIV & AIDS today than ever before, which means a much greater need for services.

6. It increases AIDS activism and volunteerism among the participants and donor communities causing them to become ambassadors in the fight against AIDS.

7. It provides a reminder that the rate of HIV infection is increasing, particularly in communities of color and in individuals under the age of 25, and that in California alone there are more than 55,000 people living with AIDS, and another 125,000 living with HIV, many unaware of their infection.

8. It requires each Cyclist to raise a minimum of $2,500, and assigns them to a personal "Cycle Buddy" as their support system for help in training, fundraising, and emotional & practical support from the time they register right up through the event."

D Rides Life

What's Next in 2009?

On-Going in 2009

Catching Up

Piru Time Trial (My Very First Race) 2-1-09

Encino Velodrome Meetup 1/17/09

Lady D Ready to Hit the Track...hopefully not literally

Breakaway Cycling- Social Cycling Club For Women Launches

Cruisin The Conejo?

The Wildflower

Coming Soon...

Rides I've Done Since ALC 6

I"M BACK!!!!!!!!

Day 7 and more

Day 6

Day 4

Day 3

Day 2

Day1

Listen to D Gab

Giant Training

My itinerary for AIDS/ LifeCycle 6

Cruisn the Conejo Century & 6,000 ft of Climbing

ALC6 Day On The Ride81 miles...I Survived!

Earth Day/ Ride Life- Ride Your Bike To Work Day

Sea Otter Classic

Giant Leap

60

Cycle Buddy Sarah Rides from SF to LA

My First Half Century of the Season

From The Valley to The Sea 3/31-Success

What Have I Been Up To?

Get with the V Baby Team Valley!!

Back to Back Bike Attack

It's Official I'm Riding in ALC 6

Italian Cross Training

Fall Certification

Up and Over 35+ Miles

Riding/ Volunteering in Santa Monica

Photo Op

Back to Where it All Began

Back in Gear

On The Road Again

Coming Soon..."Gearing Up" blog site

2 New Blog Sites I've Created & Launched- Blog Buddies & Cyclovations

Jog Around Lake Balboa

New Blog- Yummy Recipes!

Lake Balboa

Stretching with Phase IV

Future Rides...

Cross Training

Top 5 Questions Asked When I Got Back From The Ride

I’m Ba-ack—With a new look too!

I Did It!

Day 6

Day 5

Day 4

Day 3

Day 2

Day 1

Arrived in San Francisco

Opening & Closing Ceremonies

Site Updates During My Ride

Past Ride Photo Update

Santa Monica Bike Attack Celebration 11.? miles

Details on my Departure

Santa Susanna Pass

Nutrition & Hydration

Farewell to ALC Staff…Sniff..sniff

Bike Fit

Night Ride

Tour of Two Rivers – 117.5 miles

ALC 101

Back from Florida

Santa Monica Star Map Tours Ride -33 Miles

Simi/ Ojai Century Ride- 100 miles

ALC's "Day of the Ride"- 81.6 Miles

Santa Monica Bike Attacked Again- 45 miles

Mammoth Trip- Cross Training

SANTA MONICA Bike Attack Ride