tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84324757329982617642024-03-18T20:48:22.319+11:00Jason Englishenglishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17979045084082013107noreply@blogger.comBlogger184125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432475732998261764.post-92118160691524208072021-04-08T22:21:00.012+10:002021-04-08T22:28:01.386+10:00Cloudride1000 2021<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Cloudride1000
2021<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMh7fX33Tvk7DTxd20D-M0tB5sCM8zqiYIPMwORG9pYkFRTDKiGz6DewbJ8MjxwON7R_DJ-Jwl2H-B_9uU-HGGXzToW6Uia_7jdz1sBQ_K_ocbxWlhuKryOok_3nfQGHrblRXlD6RJ0p4/s3648/IMG_20210402_233459.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMh7fX33Tvk7DTxd20D-M0tB5sCM8zqiYIPMwORG9pYkFRTDKiGz6DewbJ8MjxwON7R_DJ-Jwl2H-B_9uU-HGGXzToW6Uia_7jdz1sBQ_K_ocbxWlhuKryOok_3nfQGHrblRXlD6RJ0p4/w175-h232/IMG_20210402_233459.jpg" width="175" /></a></div><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The
Coudride is a 1000km bike-packing event that takes riders through a course of
very mixed terrain. Because the course is so mixed, people choose a bike that
they feel may give them an advantage. I just used my Pivot Vault as it is a
super lightweight gravel bike that I recently completed the Cloudride 500 on.
After previously doing the course in an anti-clockwise direction in 2019, I was
keen to do this event heading in the other direction, this time aiming to
complete the whole event without assistance! <o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The ride
leaves from Bentspoke Brewery on Good Friday at 8am and this year there were 26
riders attempting the loop.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The event started off in already hot conditions and I consumed several bottles early on in </span>Canberra to
Bungendore section. My first drink stop was <span lang="EN-US">at </span>Jerangle
Public School but the water tasted a little funky and I held off drinking too much until I hit
Cooma where I phoned through an Indian takeaway order and picked up a couple of
caffeinated beverages for the trip. I ate half of my dinner out the front of
the shop and the other was consumed at a park in Nimmitabel where I
could charge devices, sit down in the dark and warm my socks and shoes on the BBQ.</p><br /><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGUaKCunQ8cpqJdY0UJkmjYLtraSlDiZPlsJqezLesPpztHhG-gmDyStV5zfcKddCKZnx4ZYdGRsFEZemrNrt61n7Zz-NwNYroGwhVMqbPKS0kzvFl8nE9fYNJlrSpOEAaCiHXHZdg6NY/s5632/IMG_20210403_124240.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4224" data-original-width="5632" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGUaKCunQ8cpqJdY0UJkmjYLtraSlDiZPlsJqezLesPpztHhG-gmDyStV5zfcKddCKZnx4ZYdGRsFEZemrNrt61n7Zz-NwNYroGwhVMqbPKS0kzvFl8nE9fYNJlrSpOEAaCiHXHZdg6NY/s320/IMG_20210403_124240.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I spent the first night in Cathcart where the
community hall was left unlocked for us with the option for a warmer night and
charging options. I managed to get two hours of sleep before I woke up cold and
continued on my way.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I reached Bombala for breakfast and the chance to find
a decent-sized supermarket. I grabbed a loaf of gluten-free bread and made up
vegemite and cheese sangers which lasted for around 12 hours!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">From Bombala the road headed up, with a few pinchy
loose climbs that were only passable on foot before a loose descent and off
track navigation to the Delegate River. The river was still slightly elevated
and I chose to take shoes and socks off for the crossing, slipping once to be
fully submerged in order to save the bike. Upon crossing there seemed no option
but to push through a thistle field that was 20-30m deep. Not far past the
crossing was the local trail angel Ralene, offering various snacks and I snuck
away with a couple of poppers, water and a zooper dooper!<br /><o:p></o:p></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWFfJ04NKIQVRc2CiRgmH7wMWqmVuJHSgaMBFV6VRet3ttGPsdn9oXG8zetydA-XH-EpqAs09_hHyusGlfD4r7keApCyo3biAtfaoh60PDqNws5INc91CRTat_RpVM0U9z2ix6uPEHSLc/s3648/IMG_20210404_082838.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWFfJ04NKIQVRc2CiRgmH7wMWqmVuJHSgaMBFV6VRet3ttGPsdn9oXG8zetydA-XH-EpqAs09_hHyusGlfD4r7keApCyo3biAtfaoh60PDqNws5INc91CRTat_RpVM0U9z2ix6uPEHSLc/s320/IMG_20210404_082838.jpg" /></a></div><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The next town for a stock up was Delegate where I
purchased a couple of extra 1.5L water bottles so I could carry just over 4L of
water.<br /><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Tubbut was the next and final decent water opportunity
before Jindabyne, so I filled up, talked to the holiday makers and went off
into the night through the crazy hike a bike section in the Tingaringi
Wilderness. I’m interested in seeing if I can ride some of these trails with a
normal geared mountain bike as I had no chance on the loaded xc!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I wasn’t sure how close I would get to Jindabyne but when
the head nods became too frequent, I camped next to the Snowy River where I
snuck in 2hrs of sleep before riding again and reaching Jindabyne at about
8:30am. I was assuming a supermarket would be open on Easter Sunday but the
best available was a coeliac unfriendly bakery so I grabbed some Snickers bars and
kept riding towards the mountains. I possibly should have stocked up on a few
more lollies as I underestimated how long the ride across the top to Batlow
would take. I did reach Batlow eventually, a little tired and without setting
an alarm had a comfortable 4hrs sleep. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br />I left Batlow around 5am as the sun started to come up
in time to do battle with what felt like kilometres of blackberry bushes. It is
hard to describe how bad this section of the track was. Initially, I was avoiding
the plants, but, as the trial progressed so did the density of the bushes and with
lots of trial and experimenting, I managed to push through the bushes, stomp
and ride into the bushes with no flats (thank you Stans Notubes and WTB Tyres!).<o:p></o:p></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWR38HrxrISmF7UyMTzCrrlw0r2BL058jTQK8MwWQt3xeShyphenhyphen8TcXzIuA81IhKpPVGA-Jvsv91g1Anav98OuGMH8OOFiV9XlGx9Ti5cHW1Mc1v36o2bTqr34mIhLffQNU6NORrSCud2rOc/s5120/IMG_20210404_175832-01.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3840" data-original-width="5120" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWR38HrxrISmF7UyMTzCrrlw0r2BL058jTQK8MwWQt3xeShyphenhyphen8TcXzIuA81IhKpPVGA-Jvsv91g1Anav98OuGMH8OOFiV9XlGx9Ti5cHW1Mc1v36o2bTqr34mIhLffQNU6NORrSCud2rOc/s320/IMG_20210404_175832-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The rest of the ride into Tumut was great as I menu
planned for the final 170km leg back to Canberra. I grabbed another loaf of
bread, bananas, several snacks, and a couple of caffeinated drinks to get me
going at the local Coles. The temperature through the next part felt hot and I
consumed lots of fluid and took any refill opportunity before the temp started
to drop on my descent down 2 sticks towards Canberra. I was grateful to be met
by several riders who rode me in the last 30kms to the finish back at the
Bentspoke Brewery.<br /><br /> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />There were heaps of decisions I had to make in the
lead up to and during the event. These are some of the things I considered, and
suggestions I would make if you were to consider doing this event.<o:p></o:p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Bike choice?<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I saw several bikes out there. E-bikes, 29er dual
suspension, gravel bikes and hardtails. I had the choice of a fully ridged Pivot
Les 29er hardtail but went for the Pivot Vault just as it has been the bike I have
been riding lately. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Tyre choice<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYbqtoU0jks_8dAq8Cg0BQ9oseg5wyCQTTphDEMXlvn22iT_F2a4qNur-t_zMpH4BXqItJHgYki0oQ4XusIkCBdhVnNdzP9iKjYkiEczBs19aP_h-hSaYr8-JF14QanGVtn9BvvbTaLPI/s3648/IMG_20210404_165708.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYbqtoU0jks_8dAq8Cg0BQ9oseg5wyCQTTphDEMXlvn22iT_F2a4qNur-t_zMpH4BXqItJHgYki0oQ4XusIkCBdhVnNdzP9iKjYkiEczBs19aP_h-hSaYr8-JF14QanGVtn9BvvbTaLPI/s320/IMG_20210404_165708.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I just ran what was on the bike and I know that it
works. A 40mm nano tyre on the front and 37mm Riddler on the back. If I had the
options available, I would have run a 45mm Riddler front and back for more
comfort and footprint / grip.<o:p></o:p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Sleeping<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I didn’t set an alarm all ride. This was deliberate,
as I planned on getting to sleep around 2-3am and just sleeping until I woke. This
was after 2 hours on the first 2 nights and 4 hours on the last night. I used a
Sol Survivor Bivvy and sleeping bag liner as my sleep system. I didn’t use a
bed mat as that would be far too comfy!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Lights<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I use a Klite Dynamo light on the bars and a Light and
Motion 1000 on the helmet. I would have loved the fast charge version of these
lights. The Klites are far brighter than I need but give a massive area of view
which made it feel safe bombing downhill in the dark.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Shoes<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I used old Northwave shoes. They were already ripped
and super comfy. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I deliberately choose
something with a Velcro top to avoid having a retention string digging into my ankles
when hiking. I did swap out socks through the event and took off my shoes and
socks when crossing rivers or creeks.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Power banks / recharge<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I used a cheap 5000ma power bank which was charged via
the Klite USB charger. I made the mistake of having a loose micro USB that kept
jumping out over rough terrain. I’ll have to improve this connection next time.
I only charged from the wall for 2 hours at Cathcart and around 20mins at Nimmitabel.
The rest was by dynamo.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Food – coeliac <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Riding gluten-free was a serious challenge over this
course. I found a safe Indian option in Cooma, then relied on a supermarket at
Bombala and Tumut for resupply. Everything else except for caffeinated
beverages and Snickers bars I carried from the start. I had a range of Gu
products which included stroopwaffles, gel, including a 15-serve bag and
protein powder. <br />
I also could carry over 4L of fluid which I did at times.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Navigation<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I used a Garmin 530 for navigation and I’m sure I just
needed to do some more research on how to set it up properly. I found after
200km the base maps disappeared, then the turn by turn disappears, then I just
had an off-course message displayed and had a single line to follow for most of
the event. When I did have a base map, I was often following a pink line that
was on top of a magenta line which was almost impossible to see. Even googling support
pages online, I couldn’t fix this. In future, I would look at trying a Bryton or
Wahoo as the Wahoo is great to follow with the dots showing the underlying
track.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">What I
would change:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Tyres up to
45mm<br />
Gears – from a 11-40T on the back to an 11-46T and an XTR rear mech rather than
the GRX that supports up to a 42T. The DI2 was great, I didn’t need a charge
over the distance.<br />
Nav – either get the Garmin sorted or try something that is easier to follow.<br />
Feet – the trench foot started to get me again, so next time, I might throw in
some baby powder to keep the feet super dry. I would also wear shoes through the
creek crossing for safety and stability.<br />
Blackberries – if I did this course again, I would take Velcro straps to strap bark
or other protective equipment onto my legs to prevent them from getting destroyed.<br />
<br />
Unexpected bonuses<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Apples along
the side of the road on the public side of the fence was a welcome treat on 2 occasions.
<br />
The 2 x Trail Angel re-supplies.<br />
The TT bar position providing serious pressure relief off the seat.<br />
The sunset through Kosciusko National Park.<br />
The crew to ride into town with.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Special thanks:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Fizo / Moxie for the place to stay before the event<br />Michael Simms for the lift to Canberra<br />Kerry Staite from Klites for loan of the Garmin 530<br />Bobby Pezz for the brake bleen in the lead up</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p>Equipment details:</o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p>Frame: Pivot Vault<br />Running gear: Shimano GRX DI2<br />Bars and Seatpost: Mt Zoom<br />Wheels: Klite prototype<br /><br /><br /></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p>Clothing:<br />Santini Rain Guard<br />Santini Custom Tono Jersey<br />Santini gravel shorts<br />Santini arm warmers<br />Northwave Spike shoes</o:p></span></p>Jason Englishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02906214791366146934noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432475732998261764.post-84672985089671953162019-12-21T15:02:00.001+11:002019-12-21T15:03:02.135+11:002019 Hunt 1000 - Never again???<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOaHEOP2ADLI95Fo5eLWmMOovCytvk_I_OwHntllbIRfU4g2be6l6miWT7OpBWYo6CeBjUTPa_GFHAch1DnfO_FjMj1_JmOcJQHzbnbOPV6H3towFgCyB8xTScWrd6Sz6P0T-3QN75Ap0/s1600/20191126_203922.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOaHEOP2ADLI95Fo5eLWmMOovCytvk_I_OwHntllbIRfU4g2be6l6miWT7OpBWYo6CeBjUTPa_GFHAch1DnfO_FjMj1_JmOcJQHzbnbOPV6H3towFgCyB8xTScWrd6Sz6P0T-3QN75Ap0/s320/20191126_203922.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bike with bags and dynolights</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
With influence from Maisey at Ghost Gum Bikes and Kerry from K-lites I signed up for the Hunt1000. After the Cloudride 1000 at Easter, I made a few changes to my setup. As extra items, I packed rain proof pants, a Sea to Summit Spark III sleeping bag and a rigid fork which saved weight and allowed for 2 more bottles to be carried.<br />
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This is my complete pack list:<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB5Tyu7Q4K2AtZazFQmVIC5jAauVWpaktTlBpqfLQVJN5tmONmZP5iIQAMefjMnnJqbViJaGub8YJWiO2L_qD-_IXMZDpqeBcWJJ_yeh3pW20JzGMGGe7B2xeg9wENpMyyiKHk4uDzgJM/s1600/20191130_061220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB5Tyu7Q4K2AtZazFQmVIC5jAauVWpaktTlBpqfLQVJN5tmONmZP5iIQAMefjMnnJqbViJaGub8YJWiO2L_qD-_IXMZDpqeBcWJJ_yeh3pW20JzGMGGe7B2xeg9wENpMyyiKHk4uDzgJM/s320/20191130_061220.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shopping bag from Omeo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
In my font bag was my sleep gear: sleeping bag, Sol Survivor Pro Bivvy and Sea 2 Summit Silk Liner.<br />
In the front bag holder bag I had hygiene / comfort stuff - chamios cream, toothbrush, tooth paste, no doze, neurophen and Spot tracker tied on.<br />
Top tube bag - power bank with charge through, dyno charger, cords<br />
On the handle bars: Wahoo Element for main navigation, quad lock for my s8 with backup navigation (ride with GPS), light mount and Garmin Etrix.<br />
Rear top tube bag - co2, multitool, lip cream and tyre lever.<br />
Chaff bags - nuts, gels, electrolytes and a spare bottle<br />
Main frame triangle bag - left side top - Stroopwafles and gels. Right lower section - pump, rain jacket, spare tube, winter gloves, spare socks. Top section - 2L Camelbak bladder<br />
Rear bag - water proof pants, spare tube, first aid kit, puffer jacket, thermal long sleeve shirt, boxer shorts most in a dry bag.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzzhKyQvORbwiaW0wKYa58LqRsZxiPNjfLvZ8FDOPY-qxhDPwQVAjp3Q0GHY8i2rbyQErxE5L-d9SDoNQjocmYx-yvodElei7bUOq5314VE-yj8rXJr-rLhDcM_k0JYrQn2uAfWwu-tnA/s1600/20191126_194302.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzzhKyQvORbwiaW0wKYa58LqRsZxiPNjfLvZ8FDOPY-qxhDPwQVAjp3Q0GHY8i2rbyQErxE5L-d9SDoNQjocmYx-yvodElei7bUOq5314VE-yj8rXJr-rLhDcM_k0JYrQn2uAfWwu-tnA/s320/20191126_194302.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">K-light charging unit</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdBW6Rd7aDOPabeqiq4TIW3uMYqd9yn2mq6YIICSNxslhbasCrAeD82R6NUu5pVp7Th7AxdP_DGhQNDAdBInI1qjlkWLF4exVbK2flFSla5CiJFmIixM1FVxYWsxuTPm_2ZwTlmuH3Pj8/s1600/20191126_194410.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdBW6Rd7aDOPabeqiq4TIW3uMYqd9yn2mq6YIICSNxslhbasCrAeD82R6NUu5pVp7Th7AxdP_DGhQNDAdBInI1qjlkWLF4exVbK2flFSla5CiJFmIixM1FVxYWsxuTPm_2ZwTlmuH3Pj8/s320/20191126_194410.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
Bike Specs:<br />
Carbon front fork with mounts for 2 x drink bottle cages. I used cages that would accept larger sized bottle and clamp them down.<br />
Front wheel had a Son dyno hub laced to an Stans Arch Rim with 2.4 Ranger Slash Guard tyres.<br />
Frame: Pivot LES Carbon 29er<br />
Seat and post carbon railed WTB saddle.<br />
Handle bars: Mt Zoom<br />
Rear Wheel: Stans Valor (carbon) with WTB Trail Boss 2.25<br />
Stages Power Meter / XTR M9000 cranks<br />
Cassette: 11-46 Shimano XT<br />
Pedals: XTR<br />
Brakes: XT<br />
Grips: ESI Extra Chunky<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyBd4sdmzdWv6noKtBG226GvHX-kPRUHLeDfaaCHJrAlangWLkyjL2hCKu6gREOifuuM3PxRpBaIx-Fd-qHsU3xEbtcHXyM-fdV_oVJYhopm0-o2upA8fffcRthqyraac6Pz6zpBzF46Y/s1600/IMG_20191202_194318_276.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="833" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyBd4sdmzdWv6noKtBG226GvHX-kPRUHLeDfaaCHJrAlangWLkyjL2hCKu6gREOifuuM3PxRpBaIx-Fd-qHsU3xEbtcHXyM-fdV_oVJYhopm0-o2upA8fffcRthqyraac6Pz6zpBzF46Y/s320/IMG_20191202_194318_276.jpg" width="165" /></a></div>
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I'll break the event down to 4 days, as that was my plan.<br />
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Day 1 - Canberra to Geehi 250km<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSzUjce5REfa0mHVx0dKDSNovxGdkOFk_l9o7yUbK0BnaYWqA2Eqamfuj4jfPNecdSow1ripHsAvFhbyjmqE6ufCHGDWqicKSm1wRyN44RaBG0uTwPjIFyGbHUPJPL0VqJGquWRE4hfYY/s1600/20191128_053116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSzUjce5REfa0mHVx0dKDSNovxGdkOFk_l9o7yUbK0BnaYWqA2Eqamfuj4jfPNecdSow1ripHsAvFhbyjmqE6ufCHGDWqicKSm1wRyN44RaBG0uTwPjIFyGbHUPJPL0VqJGquWRE4hfYY/s320/20191128_053116.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Richard and I originally planned to leave Canberra around 3am. After a late night buying food, dinner and sorting bikes we managed to leave the official start location at around 5.15am. As we rolled along, there were lots of initial adjustments to be made, bags, stems. light mounts. The first part of the trip was pretty fast going.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPpfA7sMh35eGfcfg2XWP_0awX6aCldyNLLETWpWV5TZ_xfU8c7tiHT9FOJN6lxoJOhfKpS515-lLaVyQhG3grxsEJLT-uinWqEnm-AB6xfOIFwoloHUVJ9keFqFjBNWJJ9cyt87PIlCQ/s1600/20191128_053126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPpfA7sMh35eGfcfg2XWP_0awX6aCldyNLLETWpWV5TZ_xfU8c7tiHT9FOJN6lxoJOhfKpS515-lLaVyQhG3grxsEJLT-uinWqEnm-AB6xfOIFwoloHUVJ9keFqFjBNWJJ9cyt87PIlCQ/s320/20191128_053126.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Once we got out of the Canberra city we were set along roads that would be a training regular route if you lived in the area, very quite with long climbs. With an aim of hitting Adaminaby by mid-morning, an early afternoon arrival meant we were in for a long night.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoEVarDpwC-uyWda6aqCS-un9mdsTBg9LGQqjScylktZ-u0JFSI3UMfQxhFVAzMlDRhl_6TwuDjqMBx8ur_XFlAmXQTZTyTqLxQ8nIRLOG1by7PJMKKV2YMgeYU7hS57XRj-DOKjDuFbg/s1600/20191128_135338.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoEVarDpwC-uyWda6aqCS-un9mdsTBg9LGQqjScylktZ-u0JFSI3UMfQxhFVAzMlDRhl_6TwuDjqMBx8ur_XFlAmXQTZTyTqLxQ8nIRLOG1by7PJMKKV2YMgeYU7hS57XRj-DOKjDuFbg/s320/20191128_135338.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
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I refuelled with calorie dense food items with plenty of carbs and protein which I consumed beside a few other riders we had caught.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfHWvxmDMpvbV7FmSoBZ_vv5Fq2JHMrHzz9ZHKRS3Ac3EKscn_XSUcaGA1j4WedA55UkMmHzT8LD5wwk845lnrDppo6COyXD5v8iRAEa3PS1buakx9fIcFFRFqAaFFh6IfMcH8tNHN8J4/s1600/20191128_141527.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfHWvxmDMpvbV7FmSoBZ_vv5Fq2JHMrHzz9ZHKRS3Ac3EKscn_XSUcaGA1j4WedA55UkMmHzT8LD5wwk845lnrDppo6COyXD5v8iRAEa3PS1buakx9fIcFFRFqAaFFh6IfMcH8tNHN8J4/s320/20191128_141527.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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We continued on along the Snowy Mountains Highway before we turned off onto progressively slower going tracks.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig8devD6QE-yB4ivZl2luv28bCK2NwYlPgy4UiJXvYYaj-IuW4Vv0Kcr0t8oLDRTIPMgAghkxRcnIcxmjoDbKCcZd-s_u19YiHejNyLQahnMi6m1b901FznC8EvVMOjJNgXA89laOpD_c/s1600/20191128_154902.mp4" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig8devD6QE-yB4ivZl2luv28bCK2NwYlPgy4UiJXvYYaj-IuW4Vv0Kcr0t8oLDRTIPMgAghkxRcnIcxmjoDbKCcZd-s_u19YiHejNyLQahnMi6m1b901FznC8EvVMOjJNgXA89laOpD_c/s320/20191128_154902.mp4" width="180" /></a></div>
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It was hard to describe how slow the going was through some of these sections. The most painful track was called "Grey Mare Trail". It was like you were riding on grass the whole time looking for the occational patch of dirt which allowed a bike to roll briefly.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIus7ixFUHsm-Oxm-_zPgvICgEipByXdXizEp9qS5veCRS6U4GkmMG_yg-lnrhBOBFTnwk_DuPJca4z2nAe-KkYj2OeLAO4w8_MuhJKRZR4AFbKNpMR7h7ZKInXidACXQFYeBggsJTmxU/s1600/20191128_201708.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIus7ixFUHsm-Oxm-_zPgvICgEipByXdXizEp9qS5veCRS6U4GkmMG_yg-lnrhBOBFTnwk_DuPJca4z2nAe-KkYj2OeLAO4w8_MuhJKRZR4AFbKNpMR7h7ZKInXidACXQFYeBggsJTmxU/s320/20191128_201708.jpg" width="320" /></a>The trail eventually improverd with a 1400vm decent down to Geehi hut. We rolled up to the hut and found a fellow rider who had already bunked down for the night. The 3 hours of sleep were greatly appreciated!<br />
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Day 2 - Geehi to Omeo - 140km in 18hrs!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7UQlgYYxIDZVvMmOaEN8kAFCePoWVq2yfmPSR3r1C-SQRli9laVZqE14VrrVVKVFOfKVsPtJcwweewbch4Vr95CiyZQN1-YJ5La-AA0Sq5FEKCA8uSxoNNXa9AXmm4mEG2ld02b3vDsI/s1600/20191129_083518.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7UQlgYYxIDZVvMmOaEN8kAFCePoWVq2yfmPSR3r1C-SQRli9laVZqE14VrrVVKVFOfKVsPtJcwweewbch4Vr95CiyZQN1-YJ5La-AA0Sq5FEKCA8uSxoNNXa9AXmm4mEG2ld02b3vDsI/s320/20191129_083518.jpg" width="320" /></a>The first part of this trip was mostly on tar for the first 30km before hitting a gravel road that led us to the Murray River. By the time we crossed the river, the sun was up and so was the tempreature. It would have been great to be at the Tom Groggin campsite overnight so we could have started the first ridiculous hike a bike in the cool of the day.<br />
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The hike a bike had 1300vm of climbing over 18km. In the whole section there may have been 1km that could be ridden, the rest was far too steep. Once we descended and got onto decent roads, we had 60km to and 3hrs to get to Omeo before the shop closed. I just sat on the front into a significant headwind and with 15km to go, went solo to make it to the shop in time for its 7pm closure.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY3cDz2EN3K4CrVqIZgjh92KlXRPs4PwJZolnHuWDy3tMKuwZFPkEQQ1w3UXRHG5DZ35w57KIc9God0e_JMp_0UJX9DES4xWVDiNDuXSTKzWMSUB8m0STf7hJ4aNAXWMXjp5sSQ0hjDfg/s1600/20191130_093127.mp4" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY3cDz2EN3K4CrVqIZgjh92KlXRPs4PwJZolnHuWDy3tMKuwZFPkEQQ1w3UXRHG5DZ35w57KIc9God0e_JMp_0UJX9DES4xWVDiNDuXSTKzWMSUB8m0STf7hJ4aNAXWMXjp5sSQ0hjDfg/s400/20191130_093127.mp4" width="225" /></a>Omeo is off the main track, but is a detour worth taking, especially since our last food stop was around 250km earlier. At Omeo Richard was pretty busted, and after meeting with other riders, the road closure for fires in the area meant we had to bypass Falls Creek. Richard needed a good sleep so we stayed in the pub rather than pushing on for another 5-6hrs as planned.<br />
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Day 3 - Omeo to Walhalla - 300km ish<br />
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Day 3 started with a diversion that required over 2000vm of climbing over 70km. With a rainy start, the full water proof kit was on including rain pants. The highlights of the diversion were the baby Emus that we chased for a few km and the most technical downhill of the whole course.<br />
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Dargo was only 100km from the start which we hit close to midday. After a re-supply of foods and fluids we headed up the valley towards the Billy Goat Bluff Trail. The temperature increased during this time before a hail and torrential downpour sent us hiding under a bridge for shelter. By early afternoon we started the Billy Goat Trail. Towards the top I knew I was running out of tim to make my Sunday flight, even with a short cut. I had to leave Richard and go solo. We had already planned on riding through the night and that is what I kinds of did. I was eating NoDoze tablets like they were lollies but had 3 X 10mins naps on the gravel road between 1am and 4am. I arrived at Walhalla before 7am and everything was closed. I still had 220km to travel and 12 hours to do it in which meant averaging over 18km/hr. If I knew the road was good, I would have had a go at it. Unfortunately, I couldn't guarantee I would make it in time, so took the shorter 50km short cut on the 4th day.<br />
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Day 4 - Walhalla to the train station at MOE via Erica 50km<br />
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As I left Walhala just after 7am, I started heading for Moe. I rode through Erica looking for a cafe, but found a local who was spot watching and spent a good hour having a stretch and re-hydrating. While I didn't make the full route, I wasn't too disappointed I missed out on the final section, as I had <br />
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already had to modify the route due to earlier bush fires.<br />
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<br />Jason Englishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02906214791366146934noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432475732998261764.post-8747666714011901552019-04-26T08:53:00.000+10:002019-04-26T09:08:32.948+10:002019 Monaro Cloudride 1000km - THINGS YOU MUST KNOWThe Monaro Cloudride is an unsupported 1000km race that starts and finishes in Canberra each Easter. This year the event was run in a anti-clockwise direction.<br />
<a href="http://www.cloudride1000.com/">http://www.cloudride1000.com/</a><br />
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<b>The Stages</b><br />
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I broke this trip down into sections as I found it easier to mentally deal with smaller journeys. It almost seems like the time between each re-supply town was its own stage and careful planning needed to be made before heading out onto the next stage.<br />
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<b>Stage 1 - Canberra to Tumut (170km)</b><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiIUpFcoWtJ2F6X10z5wzuNQvl2x68uVA4pTqYMil88siwU5RVKBfmHcX4HqvxJiSNAM037oKCmHGeTuZIyhJ547_5eVKGpEqjcvgvTuyjAzpCjQjzX2cQ7DVVoK3X6510HF_BSmhzsU8/s1600/20190419_090812.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiIUpFcoWtJ2F6X10z5wzuNQvl2x68uVA4pTqYMil88siwU5RVKBfmHcX4HqvxJiSNAM037oKCmHGeTuZIyhJ547_5eVKGpEqjcvgvTuyjAzpCjQjzX2cQ7DVVoK3X6510HF_BSmhzsU8/s320/20190419_090812.jpg" width="320" /></a>This stage seemed to start way too fast. I was happy riding mid field until I realised that the group was getting split and there were riders off the front. While this is a solo event, there was still drafting occurring over the first 40km.<br />
This stage was hot, with temps over 30 degrees for most of the day. Moving time was relatively quick with only limited hike a bike sections (HAB) and I had reached Tumut at 4.30pm with time to fill up bottles, buy batteries for a low powered Spot Tracker before ordering Indian for dinner which opened at 5pm. Woolworths was closed due to it being Good Friday so the petrol station was the only option for buying batteries and caffeinated drinks.<br />
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<b>Stage 2 - Tumut to Batlow (170km - 220km) </b><br />
Adrian and Paul left Tumut before me. I caught Paul climbing up the dam wall in the dark at Wereboldera. If I spent less time waiting for my Indian I could have made it to the dam wall in daylight. Soon after meeting Paul, he decided on a different course option and I followed the correct single track where I caught Adrian who had also found an extra hill to climb. Adrian and I rode together to Batlow where I stopped to eat the rest of my Indian, Adrian went to sleep and I continued on.<br />
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<b>Stage 3 - Batlow to Cabramurra (220km - 315km)</b><br />
I continued on solo after refilling water. This section I recall being fairly easy, I just put on the head phones and kept pedaling. It got colder as the night went on. I was keen to get to the indoor shelter of the Ski Lodge and arrived just after 5.00am in the morning. After a quick nap and recharge of devices I was back on the bike close to 7am. I was hoping for more sleep here but this was not possible with other people also using the same accommodation.<br />
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<b>Stage 4 - Cabramurra to Jindabyne (315km to 415km)</b><br />
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This day has me wishing I had my dually, it was rough. It wasn't possible to sit down and pedal due to how rough the track was at times so lots of this 100km section was spent out of the seat. It was another hot day and I had to re-supply water at multiple clear looking freshwater streams. I used purification tables each time, just in case. I was surprised how long this stage took and I would have consumed close to 10 Stroopwaffles as I had only eaten a small breakfast. As I started to approach Jindabyne I noticed my chest feeling tight, which I thought was just inspiration muscles at the time. The highlight of the section was the final 10km into Jindabyne where there is fun single track. It was also perfect weather conditions and there were heaps of people out enjoying the trails. At Jindabyne I purchased 1kg of nuts, 1kg of trail mix along with a loaf of GF bread, cheese and GF vegemite. I also grabbed a couple of boxes of GF breakfast biscuits.<br />
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<br />
<b>Stage 5 - Jindabyne to Tubbut (415km - 520km)</b><br />
I left Jindabyne around 6-7pm with the aim of getting a few hours up the road. I had no plan on where to get to. At 495km was the river crossing. It was close to midnight as I crossed it and started the hike a bike. I really had no idea what I was in for. With my lungs now well and truly impaired (by some kind of chest infection) I really struggled through the next 5hrs of pushing the bike. The HAB section involved over 1000vm that were not rideable. Luckily there was a full moon so lights weren't required. I should have really called it a night on the top of one of the major climbs as it was still quite warm. Once I hit the valley on the other side it started to get cold. I found a campsite on the side of the road close to where I hoped water would be for the morning. Ideally I should have kept moving for another 5km further to the Tubbut tennis courts where I would have held a shelter, water and power! I think I got in after 4am and was back on the bike around 6.30am.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj6I-nXoIux1Mr98wWSaHAQFN1_Tz0QG0Q2Of5Id4zhDg9AUdhVKJc-Rkw_JPNpMEMbsw1hyjMusRU2R2JTtCq6d-ikdlgnhzwm-m1sBpfF862mnguRRPKMVa7UXJpkr-IIN4kCEZ6b7c/s1600/20190421_171907.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj6I-nXoIux1Mr98wWSaHAQFN1_Tz0QG0Q2Of5Id4zhDg9AUdhVKJc-Rkw_JPNpMEMbsw1hyjMusRU2R2JTtCq6d-ikdlgnhzwm-m1sBpfF862mnguRRPKMVa7UXJpkr-IIN4kCEZ6b7c/s320/20190421_171907.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Stage 6 - Tubbut to Cathcart (520km - 695km)</b><br />
Once I made the additional 5km to the road, I charged devices briefly while I filled up water and checked the requirements of the day ahead. The morning was cold so I started with my winter gloves but when I stopped and swapped them for my summer gloves I dropped a glove which I only discovered another 5-6km down the road. It is always worth going back for good winter Santini Gloves!<br />
The next stop was Delegate. I rode the last 2hrs into town without water. I had run out and it was stinking hot. Once in the cafe I charged devices and drank 2L of milk drinks, shakes and coffees! I refilled bottles and aimed for an early arrival into Bombala. This wasn't the case. There was an extended section of hike a bike and paddock pushing. At the 640km mark I had a quick look at my phone which indicated that I perhaps should be taking a different route than what was on my device. I spend ages trying to work out where I should be going. Since my phone and Wahoo devices had gone flat I was left to use the only map I had available to me. This sent me on a slight detour and instead of arriving into Bombala with a choice of meal options I was turned down at a couple of facilities as they shut up at 8pm. I was lucky to find a pub at 8.10pm that kindly put on a huge feed of fish and mashed potato. After charging devices again I jumped back on the bike and pulled up at Cathcart close to 11pm needing a decent night sleep. The best option I could find was the grass beside the memorial hall. I looked in vain for the water tap but in the dark and with crazy fog I couldn't find it!<br />
<br />
<b>Stage 7 - Cathcart to 840km...(695 - 840km)<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5f3g_CxAeHpf2XZK2tUsWs4k5ZyRecf7zmeq5BjOlBB00HOAHz9jodtPkDMoDflMqnF3nttjRGlxQCJhfs6wc0QZrIFt9TB52I-WOEzBPRRXdZSxVgV5QZDL6Mhi6ZJf-G6cGi_v5DP8/s1600/20190423_072201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5f3g_CxAeHpf2XZK2tUsWs4k5ZyRecf7zmeq5BjOlBB00HOAHz9jodtPkDMoDflMqnF3nttjRGlxQCJhfs6wc0QZrIFt9TB52I-WOEzBPRRXdZSxVgV5QZDL6Mhi6ZJf-G6cGi_v5DP8/s320/20190423_072201.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sheltered campsite</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</b><br />
Leaving Cathcart I had sufficient supplies to get to Nimmitabel at the 765km mark for the final re-supply. I got there with handy lead on the other boys so I went to the cafe, put my phone on the charge and sat in the park, aiming to have a sleep while I got some charge. I then swapped the phone out for the power bank as I got supplies for the last section including new batteries for the Spot Track, which was an issue. The general store had far less food than my pantry. The only portable GF products I could take included rice crackers, cheese slices and around $30 worth of various fudges, bars and lollies! It is a lolly shop! I was also down to my last 4 no-doze tablets so, with no more available, I took a couple of Dare Double Espresso drinks and a can of V for the road. Once I started pedaling again I was feeling sleepy already so I cracked open the V and then though I should check the ingredients first before consuming it. Disappointingly, it contained wheat derivatives so wasn't safe for me. It was pretty hard to pour out the contents knowing that I needed the extra fluid for this section and the caffeine to get through the night. In the end it didn't really matter as a stick took out my rear mech at the 830km mark. I pulled out my chain tool with the intention of making a single speed. I popped two pins out and when I tried to put the chain back together the tool broke trying to push the pin back in. I continued on for another 10km but with the rain, little light from a slow moving dyno light and hypothermia kicking in now I wasn't really working at intensity to keep warm. I had to seek shelter under a tree and wait for the boys behind to catch up to see if I could use their chain tool. I hadn't been so cold in my life. I was shaking uncontrollably and there was no easy option to get in a warm tent or car etc. I was just lucky for the sleeping gear that I had kept dry. From what I could see on my phone, the boys hadn't started through the 4wd tracks and were seeking shelter for the night also. I camped off the track a few meters as I needed a tree that offered some rain protection without the risk of having dead branches drop on me.<br />
<br />
<b>Stage 8 known to me as the bonus stage- 840km to Canberra</b><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ0OKTHX-LKCuq6HkAAarzx9B9CIeQ50UhKHcgS7HA9YaZamBcjtjKtSQ5sL3nZVhmxTNE9vCadmKxE-nOeaiRCPzhCejZhfgOu5RaCFWMNvUHF9BJ9HYsIk0afmrVbof6kpcueSuVGr8/s1600/58378117_645255619249393_6546724460659998720_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ0OKTHX-LKCuq6HkAAarzx9B9CIeQ50UhKHcgS7HA9YaZamBcjtjKtSQ5sL3nZVhmxTNE9vCadmKxE-nOeaiRCPzhCejZhfgOu5RaCFWMNvUHF9BJ9HYsIk0afmrVbof6kpcueSuVGr8/s320/58378117_645255619249393_6546724460659998720_n.jpg" width="240" /></a>When I woke in the morning, I was in no rush to get up, everything I had was wet. I hadn't heard the boys ride past so I just took my time. The problem is, the boys had ridden past and I missed them, I was too far from the track to have heard them. I had a chat on the phone to Keith from Kumo Cycles who, being a keen bike packer himself, was able to come out and tweak my bike if I could make it to the 850km junction. He was able to rejoin the chain and we found the 3rd gear was the one that was going to work. This gear was good for around 10km per hour! I continued on the course where it was all fast fireroad. It would have been great to have big gears! At the 940km mark was a Cloudriders Feedzone which was great. A hot coffee, chips and water supply was really needed to get back to Canberra. After a quick stop I managed to sneak in to avoid the night time diversion through the back of Kowen Forest. My feet were becoming increasing painful during this section. Once I finished the event, I took my shoes and socks off and my feet were just throbbing from the trench foot I should have been managing. I don't think I will ever complain about "hot feet" again. It was so good to have Jason and Gwynn ready to pick me up at 10pm when I rolled in, I didn't want to ride any further if I didn't need to!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The gear<br />
<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijzZ_7y7hS85kYUa-LDoaX1e-1YkACGqRu5w-DsGrOvg3nyxWPtlaZts52xutO452lD29c2ROJjmE3Tydxjh86rcrDgvsgKAfgjEmV6FS32iyJr93WqMm569jjpp3Qffb6QqplY_mcfT8/s1600/20190405_163908.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijzZ_7y7hS85kYUa-LDoaX1e-1YkACGqRu5w-DsGrOvg3nyxWPtlaZts52xutO452lD29c2ROJjmE3Tydxjh86rcrDgvsgKAfgjEmV6FS32iyJr93WqMm569jjpp3Qffb6QqplY_mcfT8/s200/20190405_163908.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
I have to admit, I didn't know what to expect from this event. I felt I had too many other events and things to think about. In the lead up weeks I decided I needed to focus on the following things:<br />
<br />
Sleep strategies and sleep gear - for this I grabbed a hooded tarp from Sea to Summit and borrowed a Sol Survivor. I also had a thermal bag liner to add a few degrees of warmth. I just put on a Santini under shirt and got a Macpac 800 hyperdry puffer jacket. Not cheap but lightweight and warm.<br />
<br />
Lights - I was using a dyno hub so it made sense to use dyno lights. I had a very cool setup on the front and back and ran an additional Light and Motion Trail1000 Fast Charge on the helmet as it only required 2 hours to charge.<br />
<br />
Clothing - I decided to take only one riding kit but packed arm warmers, leg warmers, a windvest and rain jacket. I took both a Santini summer set of long finger gloves and a Sealskin winter waterproof set.<br />
Nutrition - I had the plan to try and refuel along the way but packed 15 Gu gels, 20 Gu Stroopwaffels and Roctane Electrolyte Capsules<br />
Fluid - I had a 3L Camelbak bladder in the frame bag and an additional bottle in the chafe bag.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfpTa9GtkvdE4iRucNjJn6w8yJCoQSgAGgaWbJTmBZh9FgeGtFnHJquzb0WoRk2Q88cnh8uhGGKtv1fqb6FweEGL-79wOkQFiAhhhTtnab6lw1EAvo5V7Jk8ZIPycdZgdDLqrybbuVOJI/s1600/58442202_2350267075295788_1152927766669164544_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfpTa9GtkvdE4iRucNjJn6w8yJCoQSgAGgaWbJTmBZh9FgeGtFnHJquzb0WoRk2Q88cnh8uhGGKtv1fqb6FweEGL-79wOkQFiAhhhTtnab6lw1EAvo5V7Jk8ZIPycdZgdDLqrybbuVOJI/s320/58442202_2350267075295788_1152927766669164544_n.jpg" width="240" /></a>Bags - I had a medium size seat bag that had additional food and clothes, full triangle frame bag that had my easily accessible food and equipment, 2 top tube bags for charging devices and holding spares and tools, 2 chafe bags - one for a bottle and the other for snacks and 1 bar bag to hold my sleeping gear.<br />
<br />
What to do differently<br />
<br />
- I would have stayed a night at Bombala to manage my trench foot. I wasn't prepared for this and I paid the price. I should have packed a spare pair of socks, talcum powder and taken the time to dry my feet regularly during the ride.<br />
- I would ring ahead to order food or just only get food available from supermarkets to save time.<br />
- I would have put a new drive train on, so if I did need to do a crazy chain repair it wouldn't slip the whole way home!<br />
- I would have ridden with others, but with a sore throat and laryngitis I wouldn't have been much company as I wasn't really able to talk.<br />
- I would have also considered hitch hiking to a bike shop to get my bike fixed when my chain tool broke, rather than getting a bike shop to meet me near the track. This would have ensured I finished without a DQ. I possible should have been more familiar with the rules of the event!<br />
<br />
It was great to have the experience of Masiey and Kerry when considering this event. I'm not exactly sure if you are allowed to get advice mid race via a phone or if that too is considered external assistance? Even a couple days on from the event my trench feet have limited my return to normal riding and I have recently stopped coughing up blood!Anyhow, I'm almost keen to give this event another go :)<br />
<br />Jason Englishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02906214791366146934noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432475732998261764.post-32274510717332127782018-10-29T23:33:00.000+11:002018-10-30T11:06:43.960+11:002018 Wembo - Scotland<br />
<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZTZmzLmLNk13gsyyV1kDKpXhVTqXrmBI6Nr8-6Jf7CI5_dZWLwk_TolUroEB_8vCTApjsXpmgcI3ekKVmch2xxq4DMecRGPNrkOC1aJbJxSEMDLBwaYwG_SeV6DgvJnvjPEjkPsteFI8/s1600/4Z8A9078.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZTZmzLmLNk13gsyyV1kDKpXhVTqXrmBI6Nr8-6Jf7CI5_dZWLwk_TolUroEB_8vCTApjsXpmgcI3ekKVmch2xxq4DMecRGPNrkOC1aJbJxSEMDLBwaYwG_SeV6DgvJnvjPEjkPsteFI8/s320/4Z8A9078.jpg" width="320" /></a>It's really hard to know where to start with this race
report. Do I start with thanking my sponsors that jumped on board to help me get to
Scotland? Do I start with the decision making around the timing of my surgery
to fix my endofibrosis? Or do I just get straight into the logistics involved
with simply getting to the start line?!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Scotland was seriously only on the cards through my very
generous sponsors and I am very grateful for each of them. In past years when I have won the World Championships, the prize included an airfare to the next
event. In 2017 I missed this prize so have relied on my major financial
sponsors: Rohr’s Home Hardware and Blacktown Family Dental. Also Total Tender
Services, Your Massage Therapist and Helen Jackson have come to the party
to generously cover most of the expenses associated with the trip. I should also thank both my parents and Jen's parents for looking after our kids so Jen could come with me. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<u><br /></u></div>
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<u>Surgery<o:p></o:p></u></div>
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It’s hard to be competitive with one leg, so surgery was an
important part of the big plan. Unfortunately, I had to serve a waiting period
with my health insurance, so July was the earliest I could go under the knife and provided the longest rehab time possible...3 months before Worlds. I
used the Australian National Championships as a final tester of fitness and
entered the 24 Hour Solo World Championships in Scotland soon after.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<u><br /></u></div>
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<u>Getting to Fort William<o:p></o:p></u></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihlCifN7XRF-GCepYL_6Z7WqFonDr5RYjzL55tNsuYBQS1_rx3F_SwOAfOsfHhXTlXig9d_ADuM-qLZtgGS5stGTob2liLGqPQxxk6WTRGGZ4hElMgeMLsI8ntS0F050wLJt8plNFapS0/s1600/4Z8A9116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihlCifN7XRF-GCepYL_6Z7WqFonDr5RYjzL55tNsuYBQS1_rx3F_SwOAfOsfHhXTlXig9d_ADuM-qLZtgGS5stGTob2liLGqPQxxk6WTRGGZ4hElMgeMLsI8ntS0F050wLJt8plNFapS0/s320/4Z8A9116.jpg" width="320" /></a>There were plenty of options for getting to the race but, we
ended up opting for a motorhome. I have seen lots of people use motor homes and
I thought it would provide my support with easy access to power, water and most
importantly, heating. Heating both for foods, fluids and crew. The drive from
Manchester took around 8 hours each way. This meant rushing past some amazing
things to do and see. I wish we could have spent an additional day or two making
the most of our time overseas!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>The track</u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This was similar to the 2014 event that I did. I just
can’t remember so much climbing. If the trails weren’t heading down a rocky
downhill, the track was heading up. Some of the climbs were nice and gentle, it
was the loose and slippery steep sections that caused the most issues.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The track was quite interesting however with so much variety.
From slippery rooty sections to bridges, from smooth flowy single track to
technical bermed corners that took careful planning to ride well.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<u>Final prep<o:p></o:p></u></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrxwYl56zxeYBZDhDNajxeFZ28kXvmZiLR80rqmGzancu2Xd_mkgHW67te0lOGATyYLifKU5QihTOar30SJH5OmAqR0PoEUnk0X7cVWsSDDM-6bkF7hjJUTNLxUAUx0vjNbZtAFUVtGrE/s1600/4Z8A9154.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrxwYl56zxeYBZDhDNajxeFZ28kXvmZiLR80rqmGzancu2Xd_mkgHW67te0lOGATyYLifKU5QihTOar30SJH5OmAqR0PoEUnk0X7cVWsSDDM-6bkF7hjJUTNLxUAUx0vjNbZtAFUVtGrE/s320/4Z8A9154.jpg" width="320" /></a>I had tried to get hold of a 30T chain ring to match my
11-40T rear cassette but unfortunately it didn’t arrive before I had to fly
out. The best I could find in town was a 32T but that still required working
far too hard up the steeper pinches.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Rain was the other concern I had. I was waiting on a Sealskins order but ended up making a purchase locally. It seems
Sealskins are the only way to go over there!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have never used a mud guard before. I was trying to source
a decent one in Australia however the shipment didn’t quite arrive in time but luckily Matt Page (who drove up from Wales to help me) managed to grab a set of really good guards from Rapid Racer Products.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I managed to borrow some lights Saturday morning from the
event sponsor Exposure Lights as JetBlack Products announced last week they
aren’t doing Niterider lights any more. Matt Page has had years of experience
using them so it was great to use something he was familiar with. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<u>The race<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On the start line I was freezing. I had almost every Santini
product I own on... Behot leg warmers, undershirt, Behot arm warmers, Sleek Kit,
Guard Jacket, booties, Lazer helmet with rain cover, a beanie and a hot water bottle
tucked down my front.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg62BimZLkaz8Zlphc8179wS0NKlq6G4q6qtMnzLJR6a_VoBsOjFQAllo1ooA7X2ZuSuWmREhLA7opvidAAhFoMR10TCd_QBCtsA_yW0Fs6Tl6_n2NBJugU4TvfrTKhBU86qQ3TapcXZ6k/s1600/4Z8A9320.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg62BimZLkaz8Zlphc8179wS0NKlq6G4q6qtMnzLJR6a_VoBsOjFQAllo1ooA7X2ZuSuWmREhLA7opvidAAhFoMR10TCd_QBCtsA_yW0Fs6Tl6_n2NBJugU4TvfrTKhBU86qQ3TapcXZ6k/s320/4Z8A9320.jpg" width="320" /></a>I ditched the hot water bottle before the start and should have
also left the rain jacket. I warmed up very quickly! I had stuffed my jacket in
my rear pocket by mid lap and was quite warm. If only this feeling lasted
longer….<br />
The pace from the start was fast as per usual and I had to settle for around 20<sup>th</sup>
heading into the first single track. Unfortunately, there were quite a few
riders that couldn’t ride the single track as well as the fire road. After a
couple of laps I dropped my seat a little to try and manage muscular pain on my
weak leg. Apart from the first 3-4 hours, I didn’t really notice muscular leg pain.<br />
I was getting race splits from early on which was helpful, I was initially losing
around 1-1.5 mins per lap. Once I caught up to Taylor Lideen who rides for Pivot I stayed
with him until lap 15/16 where he caught up to the race leaders and I decided I
should take the race a little easier. I just didn’t feel strong from the start
and knew I was pushing it a little too hard given my lack of training. Normally leading up to a serious 24hr I would look at linking together
several big weeks but unfortunately, with work commitments and recovering from surgery,
I wasn’t in the form to be super competitive. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For the rest of the night I took
a conservative approach with my main aim to stay upright and just hold on to
the 3rd position I was sitting in. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
During the night I got to try out the Exposure
Lights systems. Matt had them setup so I needed to swap out the helmet light
every 2 laps and the bar light much less often. The bar lights were quite clever,
they would save power on the climbs by dimming and turn up the brightness on
the fast decents. I normally run my lights on low beam permanently, so this was
something great. <br />
At around 6am when the rain really started belting down, I was pushing it a
little too hard around one of the fireroad corners and had a good slide out. It
took me ages to get back on the bike, it really hurt. The next 4 hours were
quite tough, the pain in my knee became a constant ache, my forks were too
stiff at 35psi and were only getting around 20mm of travel, I was freezing cold
again and I was scared off falling off again and hurting my knee. <br />
After 10am I checked the laps times with my support crew and we worked out I
could stop, have a shower and warm up and get my knee stitched up, ready to go back out for a final lap if necessary. We reassessed
the positions at 11.30am and I was safe to stay warm and dry. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM0tGcOsz4QREV1e9v2IxLWOluPjCxlLDueEsqtM_OkbKLwrHabQZ5-3t4J_V91Z5EX784_O34vNDkmMrVpzEczJGqz6sB0naU0TVxdVGoV-YkMUJeDPaKe4UpltB26zixT_CzueDH5f8/s1600/4Z8A9469.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM0tGcOsz4QREV1e9v2IxLWOluPjCxlLDueEsqtM_OkbKLwrHabQZ5-3t4J_V91Z5EX784_O34vNDkmMrVpzEczJGqz6sB0naU0TVxdVGoV-YkMUJeDPaKe4UpltB26zixT_CzueDH5f8/s320/4Z8A9469.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The bikes I used for the race were great, the Mach 429SL was
a good choice. The Elite Female winner and runner up Elite Male were on the
same bike. My bike has Shimano DI2 XTR, Stans Podium Wheels, Wtb Ranger Tyes
and Saddles, Mt Zoom bars and Stages Power Meters.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Getting home, was
another story…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
Pics: Russ BakerJason Englishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02906214791366146934noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432475732998261764.post-12502180181648462432018-10-13T20:31:00.001+11:002018-10-14T20:38:19.480+11:002018 Hero MTB Himalaya <br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table border="1" style="width: 90%px;"><tbody>
<tr> <td colspan="3">There is really too much to talk about for each stage, so I just picked the thing that really stood out to me from each stage.</td> </tr>
<tr> <td>Prologue stage – The first day was really the rego day, where there was a prayer ceremony and 1km loop through a closed off section of Shimla is a pedestrian heavy area.The loop was more of a showy lap around and a chance to recognise the contribution India Tourism and other supporters have made to make this event possible.</td> <td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg_C9Jce90dNMLA7cqQ221YcDCkgJUPrMTiScF22aGMZMMhFKoxXl-c4D97wdvJ5xitsXS1k0hsFCdRlFTbb33xiuEWEC1PYxP6Z37w1dgTwFRHfaqmmFYh7VvcjDZq4KyC9neQK0Aqgc/s1600/FB_20180927_161412.mp4" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="720" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg_C9Jce90dNMLA7cqQ221YcDCkgJUPrMTiScF22aGMZMMhFKoxXl-c4D97wdvJ5xitsXS1k0hsFCdRlFTbb33xiuEWEC1PYxP6Z37w1dgTwFRHfaqmmFYh7VvcjDZq4KyC9neQK0Aqgc/s400/FB_20180927_161412.mp4" width="225" /></a></td> <td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWeGldjZm3XMsGiffI_zs-LNhN9XDOs5BlBrRmwzBH8PAhq38kKTevxG4a40drOZPgXMrOhSE-MqgsCib9VLQU6-NBs8iybCBBPXF7EvzupP4tDHBAM98BkIGTnYgRglA_1CqZxl3HhBU/s1600/20180927_120646.mp4" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWeGldjZm3XMsGiffI_zs-LNhN9XDOs5BlBrRmwzBH8PAhq38kKTevxG4a40drOZPgXMrOhSE-MqgsCib9VLQU6-NBs8iybCBBPXF7EvzupP4tDHBAM98BkIGTnYgRglA_1CqZxl3HhBU/s320/20180927_120646.mp4" width="320" /></a><span class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></span></td> </tr>
<tr> <td>Stage 1<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
The crazy ride to the start is a good introduction to riding around India. Eventually the crazy traffic, both pedestrian, vehicular and animal became normal. Within 5km of the race component, I lost balance and fell off a cliff. I was balancing as I looked for the line through a landslide, but there was no line. I think my pedals were gunked up with mud from an earlier section so instead of unclipping off I went. I was lucky to come away with just scratches, my bike got a broken helmet and I didn’t realise that my gopro fell off. I couldn’t get my bike up the cliff by myself and had to rely on a couple of riders to climb down a tree to reach me and my bike. Peter Rorh then stopped to assist as I slid my handlebars across to give something to grab onto, I strapped on my brake leaver and could fit the shifter only on the end of the bar. Finishing this first day with only a back brake was a little crazy at times.</td> <td><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/XeVdJQcUqzY/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XeVdJQcUqzY?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></td> <td><span class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMPWj4-X-sRwZ4vF3g55ED_XD5PR7LEQ4Q9jxNvIeyW8QVLXi_ygjNNrY4xozjm5Ku1q_W-rcuATVetaPyFYNUOCr38NKMtxk8aMxndj0_DCrQiaQCQO1vq_4sYnZ9JsUq_u44kykH7Q/s1600/IMG-20180927-WA0003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="938" data-original-width="1280" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMPWj4-X-sRwZ4vF3g55ED_XD5PR7LEQ4Q9jxNvIeyW8QVLXi_ygjNNrY4xozjm5Ku1q_W-rcuATVetaPyFYNUOCr38NKMtxk8aMxndj0_DCrQiaQCQO1vq_4sYnZ9JsUq_u44kykH7Q/s320/IMG-20180927-WA0003.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td> </tr>
<tr> <td><span class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfAk6VDID3bM2bbGvuH6fi6VyNCgl03rZOdgDGzyLSMwe9NGYNnx9EMwzbpl9c2jpE4pEiZnWzpaYcttrHbM3HjS0UOgpP1l0nJtjs2xCxwg8DdqIKt-f47NLbBLj5znvyFR_nZGdoi9I/s1600/IMG-20180930-WA0000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfAk6VDID3bM2bbGvuH6fi6VyNCgl03rZOdgDGzyLSMwe9NGYNnx9EMwzbpl9c2jpE4pEiZnWzpaYcttrHbM3HjS0UOgpP1l0nJtjs2xCxwg8DdqIKt-f47NLbBLj5znvyFR_nZGdoi9I/s320/IMG-20180930-WA0000.jpg" width="236" /></a></span></td> <td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXhZxh3XIxnSIlTR-U-Kh4Tzlbxd1TPZQsp1XfuGmCDnOsSIDjeYfUTxVU5xIuy5O0mgzbemulUmhUiG9G70H581mA4ZCuzACSRcGJyZ_BEPO9EJuA3NGtWeCa3hbkd_HZxqH7c3BFuig/s1600/IMG-20180930-WA0002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXhZxh3XIxnSIlTR-U-Kh4Tzlbxd1TPZQsp1XfuGmCDnOsSIDjeYfUTxVU5xIuy5O0mgzbemulUmhUiG9G70H581mA4ZCuzACSRcGJyZ_BEPO9EJuA3NGtWeCa3hbkd_HZxqH7c3BFuig/s400/IMG-20180930-WA0002.jpg" width="296" /></a></td> <td><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/f5TGnOI4MO8/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/f5TGnOI4MO8?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></td> </tr>
<tr> <td>Stage 2 began with a gradual climb, all on good gravel road. My partner Akshit had no idea how to ride in a group and so I had to really encourage him to get right on a wheel. He also lacked the strength to muscle up any undulations in the road and required a helping hand to get him back to a wheel. We carefully stayed with the team in 3<sup>rd</sup> place and I spend around 3 hours with my hand on Akshit’s back!<br />
<o:p></o:p></td> <td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3hwfAQZypKIhH5kUVzCRU4FbGerxqvGbh3bAwdOLw-90-3mgc8UsQEs6EVvNTbMM5UhsuAvgi76HEQrbqSBWJ6cnCU9GERiEYPUwhQ_Tm9TDbQwmnXB5q3bTfoW5LMDKVUjQj8LCsdKQ/s1600/20180929_085438.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3hwfAQZypKIhH5kUVzCRU4FbGerxqvGbh3bAwdOLw-90-3mgc8UsQEs6EVvNTbMM5UhsuAvgi76HEQrbqSBWJ6cnCU9GERiEYPUwhQ_Tm9TDbQwmnXB5q3bTfoW5LMDKVUjQj8LCsdKQ/s320/20180929_085438.jpg" width="320" /></a></td> <td><span class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHaBWvEbFSwv3ArmrZD_zEPavtT5qMklILfqQWj4sFCla70cvEJqaF72Wh0MgALTJd9dGxf35dYtL4lQxSoptw-zFnre74KhCkJmh3bRLT-aiY4fN4QF_TZQupcI1W3btrfrgyqvrIJs0/s1600/IMG-20180927-WA0005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="938" data-original-width="1280" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHaBWvEbFSwv3ArmrZD_zEPavtT5qMklILfqQWj4sFCla70cvEJqaF72Wh0MgALTJd9dGxf35dYtL4lQxSoptw-zFnre74KhCkJmh3bRLT-aiY4fN4QF_TZQupcI1W3btrfrgyqvrIJs0/s320/IMG-20180927-WA0005.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td> </tr>
<tr> <td><span class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLUFj7EGNT6sNuq89am06WvGF2zIT3oC5EJDCxG2JMrof_SSjWzPGrgEp2xfv6ywKKcE7O3bdvLjHKfy-5nZq3-WEKiazgHyUzcrCXB53iHyW-42YzEuRSZtXX4HZXES2XL3UPjV9QKko/s1600/20180929_121807.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLUFj7EGNT6sNuq89am06WvGF2zIT3oC5EJDCxG2JMrof_SSjWzPGrgEp2xfv6ywKKcE7O3bdvLjHKfy-5nZq3-WEKiazgHyUzcrCXB53iHyW-42YzEuRSZtXX4HZXES2XL3UPjV9QKko/s320/20180929_121807.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td> <td></td> <td></td> </tr>
<tr> <td>Stage 3<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
This was the longest day for me, with lots of walking. When I finished at 4pm I had rice to eat which was cooked at 6am that day. It was the last time I ate anything without checking the heat of the serving tray. If it was not hot, I assumed it was cooked at breakfast and was sitting out all day. I did spend a significant part of the evening revisiting the rice I had consumed earlier.<br />
<o:p></o:p></td> <td><span class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbKlqsOjL-WEQzTViWPWd_cZrEEeRdVmRJbS0I2gH7Iqo2mui8nTkp86qJfICRn0ikSidwA-pw4o0K1q3EA0UyDm2HBFETWtZj1bvPwX3Y_Yfg18HX-Ldr_PBMclvv0S-K21COtRlCvbo/s1600/IMG-20180927-WA0006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="938" data-original-width="1280" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbKlqsOjL-WEQzTViWPWd_cZrEEeRdVmRJbS0I2gH7Iqo2mui8nTkp86qJfICRn0ikSidwA-pw4o0K1q3EA0UyDm2HBFETWtZj1bvPwX3Y_Yfg18HX-Ldr_PBMclvv0S-K21COtRlCvbo/s320/IMG-20180927-WA0006.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td> <td><div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJcAYRUHG_pGbG3uAqdHBcKBy27JwbCF-NI5zAqrnkv8jtwQRAqGwPVAQ3LxP5Hie3rPjD0AeEVEJoVwcPUsmLHqgJGc_oJgky1NbdhFGqqWTaPtd6L4VWp6wHzNKlrOdINFPm30roYqI/s1600/20180930_105514.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJcAYRUHG_pGbG3uAqdHBcKBy27JwbCF-NI5zAqrnkv8jtwQRAqGwPVAQ3LxP5Hie3rPjD0AeEVEJoVwcPUsmLHqgJGc_oJgky1NbdhFGqqWTaPtd6L4VWp6wHzNKlrOdINFPm30roYqI/s320/20180930_105514.jpg" width="320" /></a><span class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></span></div>
</td> </tr>
<tr> <td>Rest day – started with the riders heading into a local school for a show and dace. After was a chance to do some shopping for clothes, fireworks, chia and a haircut. I was really bummed about losing my sweet casual Adidas glasses this day.</td> <td><span class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGLHJVHAZbHL7aVW3HYInV-QMw4PrAC6PYMlFwcIb-n9TA5XDOjq1f0p6hgVM87DlTPYAl4paGr2BP6aMRew8HAMkRAgw2fyx_p17f_rJ7SUCZUPx43k8zZgfJaaNTvoQMnpPTV6LJszg/s1600/20181001_172822.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGLHJVHAZbHL7aVW3HYInV-QMw4PrAC6PYMlFwcIb-n9TA5XDOjq1f0p6hgVM87DlTPYAl4paGr2BP6aMRew8HAMkRAgw2fyx_p17f_rJ7SUCZUPx43k8zZgfJaaNTvoQMnpPTV6LJszg/s200/20181001_172822.jpg" width="150" /></a></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdWT9KArWemWhlwBew1u-4UX9p8vzfiaeY6XsowL-9jHe7c_LMF3KRKPzqLDnDjhRf3zHkYW_sje4iN0U0uAA0AqE0oDhlu-aZCODCG60eymq07ZgA08VGHaVVVXtRncC6vkBG21Q15JU/s1600/20181001_121708.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdWT9KArWemWhlwBew1u-4UX9p8vzfiaeY6XsowL-9jHe7c_LMF3KRKPzqLDnDjhRf3zHkYW_sje4iN0U0uAA0AqE0oDhlu-aZCODCG60eymq07ZgA08VGHaVVVXtRncC6vkBG21Q15JU/s200/20181001_121708.jpg" width="200" /></a></td> <td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTV-PXz4MljGQXvZXRt5X4pN_2C8eTLgM1vIugHd9ls6Nu0LhZLHFpUTQfg-OENGbTPBLKLJ8mevOpAgBLkDD7CQzLQKQryc-rnwmpQDmTulazVK6WpXTv2MeixYZ9ruD4rXxX-FJURgg/s1600/20181001_173753.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTV-PXz4MljGQXvZXRt5X4pN_2C8eTLgM1vIugHd9ls6Nu0LhZLHFpUTQfg-OENGbTPBLKLJ8mevOpAgBLkDD7CQzLQKQryc-rnwmpQDmTulazVK6WpXTv2MeixYZ9ruD4rXxX-FJURgg/s320/20181001_173753.jpg" width="320" /></a></td> </tr>
<tr> <td>Stage 4- I thought this stage had a neutral stage for the first few kms so I just cruised out of town. It ended up being a race from the start and Akshit and I got left behind by the team still sitting in 3<sup>rd</sup> ahead of us. We eventually worked our way through the field and moved into the 3<sup>rd</sup> team overall.</td> <td><o:p><span class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAzsZwxjMzLUB_SyFSc1UfHUQuZbR1o9xLNp1AW_Y5V1HnT4Wa7oNcx-4bIJ6o2i6_y1aFQDIFEJEJ1bsr3ZI5jZ9UD1e46LiVF_x28rRHYqBPMOhzdyqlFPQ1VS8fmV74lLMRUmPrjZ4/s1600/IMG-20180927-WA0000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="938" data-original-width="1280" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAzsZwxjMzLUB_SyFSc1UfHUQuZbR1o9xLNp1AW_Y5V1HnT4Wa7oNcx-4bIJ6o2i6_y1aFQDIFEJEJ1bsr3ZI5jZ9UD1e46LiVF_x28rRHYqBPMOhzdyqlFPQ1VS8fmV74lLMRUmPrjZ4/s320/IMG-20180927-WA0000.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></o:p></td> <td><div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM_9wO7rdyK3FbZyJ4o7F3HJ6DtWJQlLT6O7sOxwhcUvV2Vtiubq_veE8uvsfvwQNLi7EG9bRExWTG4k_ozDl0DrmEjrfr5h25Qz6DWzO0cljKMHMIaPlJ-eW1R6-8wNRSldGLyFLu8UU/s1600/20181002_135036.mp4" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM_9wO7rdyK3FbZyJ4o7F3HJ6DtWJQlLT6O7sOxwhcUvV2Vtiubq_veE8uvsfvwQNLi7EG9bRExWTG4k_ozDl0DrmEjrfr5h25Qz6DWzO0cljKMHMIaPlJ-eW1R6-8wNRSldGLyFLu8UU/s400/20181002_135036.mp4" width="400" /></a><span class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></span></div>
</td> </tr>
<tr> <td><span class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgklrpF9k5mcH1PIvMOU6BpVq6y_q38gTAYR5v1xaht8_-e7zFUDJxyfDhpEr7RPWeAuDlFWg0Z_dKhv19xDqjR6dcf5kST17bu38MCC20tHLN3QRPg48lkZsau1MyIoTjUg9zzVuKgfoI/s1600/20181002_155843.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgklrpF9k5mcH1PIvMOU6BpVq6y_q38gTAYR5v1xaht8_-e7zFUDJxyfDhpEr7RPWeAuDlFWg0Z_dKhv19xDqjR6dcf5kST17bu38MCC20tHLN3QRPg48lkZsau1MyIoTjUg9zzVuKgfoI/s200/20181002_155843.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></td> <td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOvE2zz_hj_K1B_utvYmF8AfoJtu6bo8CHeaTLs2RUvpgfJggcQ3_uQ2F9l2kZurKuUSarPoL7wGJYQXiVB0BSCH_kRRcVFSSW0oqPGcrcNs6HxLKvfIoCDLl7Xb4oGWCi5DostkIVpS0/s1600/20181002_133503.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOvE2zz_hj_K1B_utvYmF8AfoJtu6bo8CHeaTLs2RUvpgfJggcQ3_uQ2F9l2kZurKuUSarPoL7wGJYQXiVB0BSCH_kRRcVFSSW0oqPGcrcNs6HxLKvfIoCDLl7Xb4oGWCi5DostkIVpS0/s320/20181002_133503.jpg" width="320" /></a></td> <td></td> </tr>
<tr> <td>Stage 5 - The highlight of this stage was the 1000vm decent, riding down crazy stairs past private residence, then finishing the ride with a cold coffee ice-cream and hot showers as we camped at college. <br />
<o:p></o:p></td> <td><span class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx3grri7xPbLRvawY3VAbdlGDGFo8wyQ7gUzqAlmdGua1fBhWwI4rhLCnBm5tJZn4tfw8fp7XolmDxP-jKHwjW1db04jdqOV5iioxZPwrmBT73FRmLtGAjcW0_Wump3g_aqN-xapXEMSw/s1600/IMG-20180927-WA0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="938" data-original-width="1280" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx3grri7xPbLRvawY3VAbdlGDGFo8wyQ7gUzqAlmdGua1fBhWwI4rhLCnBm5tJZn4tfw8fp7XolmDxP-jKHwjW1db04jdqOV5iioxZPwrmBT73FRmLtGAjcW0_Wump3g_aqN-xapXEMSw/s320/IMG-20180927-WA0001.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td> <td><div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdLJi5YtSa8XlyofC_w_OeICPcKgRxRtyiOKrTUb7egTtTnX9oVqDETldkGUaMhdHcVk0vp8jmKonANWooG4kL-5DGHY3_6Y3byk4LKhApe3_VrQ7wcUVQOsuELrJ3eDnlsKIGDlhsZ0M/s1600/20181003_094852.mp4" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdLJi5YtSa8XlyofC_w_OeICPcKgRxRtyiOKrTUb7egTtTnX9oVqDETldkGUaMhdHcVk0vp8jmKonANWooG4kL-5DGHY3_6Y3byk4LKhApe3_VrQ7wcUVQOsuELrJ3eDnlsKIGDlhsZ0M/s400/20181003_094852.mp4" width="400" /></a><span class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></span></div>
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<tr> <td><span class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Qd6pxPDL4aKwtdzIwszuPCCpk1Wshi6819kDzOKlRg5bqT8hF6Z11wrLcnMY4EIM3mxnU_BWQBZJvGpznq5tksCbKZmCRImgyw0FYu-KfzS3bA791GOA_qew5gjFpfZP_z01bAVJqYQ/s1600/20181003_141944.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Qd6pxPDL4aKwtdzIwszuPCCpk1Wshi6819kDzOKlRg5bqT8hF6Z11wrLcnMY4EIM3mxnU_BWQBZJvGpznq5tksCbKZmCRImgyw0FYu-KfzS3bA791GOA_qew5gjFpfZP_z01bAVJqYQ/s200/20181003_141944.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></td> <td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNDrAQeckuFVliFei24UW-9EiCdwaD2v4JaM3GLiMyXP2rjxD305p8Usz13bxuP4lQ73nEt9Q97rg6bh-B5b3uFGg6sEbllx2syXhNcOCeH3lDo26opJ3CODeMh7tSdrC-m0Wj9gzMqnw/s1600/20181003_120416.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNDrAQeckuFVliFei24UW-9EiCdwaD2v4JaM3GLiMyXP2rjxD305p8Usz13bxuP4lQ73nEt9Q97rg6bh-B5b3uFGg6sEbllx2syXhNcOCeH3lDo26opJ3CODeMh7tSdrC-m0Wj9gzMqnw/s320/20181003_120416.jpg" width="320" /></a></td> <td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMVqB_zd3aCSriDW3oo6xMKL8PLTpudwgy5jWpd_aTNOz36Yk7nOH36IRxgTlNItCS6I08wB3Ctl4G_carAZJf_bfX3JkcvkTQQYLwmFBCNZFcUyQADo3mkkrF_2z2wlBAB2EfDG_m6rs/s1600/20181004_164525.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMVqB_zd3aCSriDW3oo6xMKL8PLTpudwgy5jWpd_aTNOz36Yk7nOH36IRxgTlNItCS6I08wB3Ctl4G_carAZJf_bfX3JkcvkTQQYLwmFBCNZFcUyQADo3mkkrF_2z2wlBAB2EfDG_m6rs/s320/20181004_164525.jpg" width="320" /></a></td> </tr>
<tr> <td>Stage 6 -<br />
I did the first climb out of the college with the top few riders before soft pedaling waiting for Akshit, we then rode together following an impressive ridge-line. My highlight was seeing Akshit push himself to hold my wheel when I was pushing 220-230 watts for the last 10km on the flat.<br />
<o:p></o:p></td> <td><span class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwHdTuds-T5hPzLaRjulhGf8U45SqtQX5TVIfUmIUsW9IwKpDWu211xm6DaVTE5SuBN_uyuwHdR35_hPc6exAEx3syuxUzoLzezuB8LxzD4t1sSyBAxPWWrvy4zxqaESYaO-krQeMH5PQ/s1600/IMG-20180927-WA0004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="938" data-original-width="1280" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwHdTuds-T5hPzLaRjulhGf8U45SqtQX5TVIfUmIUsW9IwKpDWu211xm6DaVTE5SuBN_uyuwHdR35_hPc6exAEx3syuxUzoLzezuB8LxzD4t1sSyBAxPWWrvy4zxqaESYaO-krQeMH5PQ/s320/IMG-20180927-WA0004.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td> <td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHzsoz8BDL2wi4GSm7-WDK-eODIfH09tLqyaEIAL5bgjZRMUHgYEDWCSRKo4FzAMuX53yiGSJq15mSRFZA2ltOfYqyHgF0Ks6ZXWQKm8x4c6BBzjNM6aVFmK9a7YqYW1tqm56PcvfiAKY/s1600/20181004_100953.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHzsoz8BDL2wi4GSm7-WDK-eODIfH09tLqyaEIAL5bgjZRMUHgYEDWCSRKo4FzAMuX53yiGSJq15mSRFZA2ltOfYqyHgF0Ks6ZXWQKm8x4c6BBzjNM6aVFmK9a7YqYW1tqm56PcvfiAKY/s320/20181004_100953.jpg" width="320" /></a></td> </tr>
<tr> <td>Stage 7 - This stage was really looking unlikely to go ahead with the number of landslides in the area. The course setters were able to come up with an option luckily. The amount of hiker bike sections was crazy. It just felt like it was easier to just walk the whole course rather than getting on and off the bike. If there wasn’t such a nice downhill I wouldn’t have really enjoyed this stage, although, this day did have the most impressive views.<br />
<o:p></o:p></td> <td><span class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuZMjJQ2_XH3j5H8c2yBNaySM4Ervp_TzeOczIOgr7l26vIzYPHP4wS-aeY8Iy0POQM-d42C6s02PJjItx4_AFvq0VsZYDvxW3HCrP_ZTHwg0bFSPhI5hShrwe2tpaEhaRWAPjndYzS6E/s1600/IMG-20180927-WA0002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="938" data-original-width="1280" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuZMjJQ2_XH3j5H8c2yBNaySM4Ervp_TzeOczIOgr7l26vIzYPHP4wS-aeY8Iy0POQM-d42C6s02PJjItx4_AFvq0VsZYDvxW3HCrP_ZTHwg0bFSPhI5hShrwe2tpaEhaRWAPjndYzS6E/s320/IMG-20180927-WA0002.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td> <td><span class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh63fN9zZ53S9vngD92idcVPc2FhgzQuJwARUMPZxYjlSYmfAEyVRMkXVvtuJwKfd30lmlfYu70GEXgBKt407sxVPsRX1NqQFUGDAQhrNBCO5ynZLRVKFpXrbEg9WQVVvJDfaGL48BGUj0/s1600/20181005_104055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh63fN9zZ53S9vngD92idcVPc2FhgzQuJwARUMPZxYjlSYmfAEyVRMkXVvtuJwKfd30lmlfYu70GEXgBKt407sxVPsRX1NqQFUGDAQhrNBCO5ynZLRVKFpXrbEg9WQVVvJDfaGL48BGUj0/s320/20181005_104055.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td> </tr>
<tr> <td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6V3ZMOsPXyGuGDYogopBW5RYkEdPNF1iQDfscfVNH9xItU5xqKPcOiDYwktrf-U1p1JGTEr5gty5lEfYuDJ1djQIhQLrsYcsEYx1WjdiIvFHKeyOeROrY9F2Mqsxw7K1CPHKcmz-ugBg/s1600/20181005_113511.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6V3ZMOsPXyGuGDYogopBW5RYkEdPNF1iQDfscfVNH9xItU5xqKPcOiDYwktrf-U1p1JGTEr5gty5lEfYuDJ1djQIhQLrsYcsEYx1WjdiIvFHKeyOeROrY9F2Mqsxw7K1CPHKcmz-ugBg/s320/20181005_113511.jpg" width="240" /></a></td> <td><span class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio-BmYeJMCW0L7lc3MX7An2vSmfriEmuyeFZUAw2rEoBanPfv160XeK6Qf2eL4XSS1pkhPUlmXth29iksc-oRYT1JbRHH71JUowwtvs5pMRXghzvRORVobezahDRw0QkThaoxpbQ6BFpU/s1600/20181005_120634.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio-BmYeJMCW0L7lc3MX7An2vSmfriEmuyeFZUAw2rEoBanPfv160XeK6Qf2eL4XSS1pkhPUlmXth29iksc-oRYT1JbRHH71JUowwtvs5pMRXghzvRORVobezahDRw0QkThaoxpbQ6BFpU/s320/20181005_120634.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td> <td><span class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnIoV4ZShVjzp5rcmAmtHlb669LSb37nEIqe2gyasFSvrH-n82DmwNcJW6UVAsXeyDGR0QRYM0y1s7jOV3Zpmgn7bOgScVGDWcacHK1sYSQLsdRTpPhOTjhCJXf1o3twNQwqxuOxJ2fNI/s1600/20181005_175403.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnIoV4ZShVjzp5rcmAmtHlb669LSb37nEIqe2gyasFSvrH-n82DmwNcJW6UVAsXeyDGR0QRYM0y1s7jOV3Zpmgn7bOgScVGDWcacHK1sYSQLsdRTpPhOTjhCJXf1o3twNQwqxuOxJ2fNI/s320/20181005_175403.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td> </tr>
<tr> <td>Stage 8 - <br />
the final stage was decided to be a race where the first person across the line wold be a local Indian rider. It was amazing how hard this guy was pushing to prove he deserved the stage win. He was super emotional coming over the line to know he had the respect of many top riders. I finished this stage ahead with the leaders then looped back to find Akshit who was not the far behind and demonstrated massive improvement over the 8 days racing. With a little training before the event and with learning how to bunny hop correctly, he will be one of the top Indian riders.<br />
<o:p></o:p></td> <td><span class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6qDtt4lm9rGvxg_-1mv2iIQStG6LwOBc4WnZLbBshg47VgzKgkpseGFMwSsMO1dBwoyewX7qTbB-BfP5W73vNqscd_POKhc2DwUGdOXJsfL3yvG_eeilOYzn7L4ffG7mcI3abVRGT3Z8/s1600/IMG-20180927-WA0007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="938" data-original-width="1280" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6qDtt4lm9rGvxg_-1mv2iIQStG6LwOBc4WnZLbBshg47VgzKgkpseGFMwSsMO1dBwoyewX7qTbB-BfP5W73vNqscd_POKhc2DwUGdOXJsfL3yvG_eeilOYzn7L4ffG7mcI3abVRGT3Z8/s320/IMG-20180927-WA0007.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td> <td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyQA12omQF-xy7xDvZOlEbi_9g8hacLInrFdqdVSBspUF4d1Lp7xPgCyzI3ApW01Ba_6RpZFoYdk3ku1rY_slbVz_iNU4GWN8RvKa-eZzjWgxJk4Klvw12YYVw2Fs2bE0rs9ic6sFtd50/s1600/20181006_140546.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyQA12omQF-xy7xDvZOlEbi_9g8hacLInrFdqdVSBspUF4d1Lp7xPgCyzI3ApW01Ba_6RpZFoYdk3ku1rY_slbVz_iNU4GWN8RvKa-eZzjWgxJk4Klvw12YYVw2Fs2bE0rs9ic6sFtd50/s320/20181006_140546.jpg" width="320" /></a></td> </tr>
<tr> <td><span class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitXGU-H5e-1kSH7gaAHEHZL2iKNUsNh5UBN2D81s5URdSTgRn7MBPPJlg9FbPvJW21XNQ3Gwcb7hlJ8O2kBhapsBAxeigAygV8_SJH4FlEEog7HU3wpYJLZZwUp4Jl1EESIpRRdS8E8Ek/s1600/20181006_112055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitXGU-H5e-1kSH7gaAHEHZL2iKNUsNh5UBN2D81s5URdSTgRn7MBPPJlg9FbPvJW21XNQ3Gwcb7hlJ8O2kBhapsBAxeigAygV8_SJH4FlEEog7HU3wpYJLZZwUp4Jl1EESIpRRdS8E8Ek/s200/20181006_112055.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></td> <td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWTKt-_4zbBa_1S8L18zckf0Yn6bnaECIx5oDyR8IpYmnvN2eBxuMXQhYzIaW-9jbpeTMAx3TByN6-gIT3craV6V1lcNTObI7V-gd9wxVy3NPoeZ1qGHmj6Zc0XhwUEI9EcKHik2ICsG0/s1600/20181007_125702.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWTKt-_4zbBa_1S8L18zckf0Yn6bnaECIx5oDyR8IpYmnvN2eBxuMXQhYzIaW-9jbpeTMAx3TByN6-gIT3craV6V1lcNTObI7V-gd9wxVy3NPoeZ1qGHmj6Zc0XhwUEI9EcKHik2ICsG0/s320/20181007_125702.jpg" width="320" /></a></td> <td><span class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Ejrr4EDSJFynjAbhdAXz8E9E6kZ-S5a4riNok_zRHWxKTdSYO71C1AaGAnXem9y552KpybscCnPfqm9k4BNhvAsqsBPZTV5WfqiCWP2uQMqdPXZJcw-OQixwzYZaBrZ4xTGg6E1N9To/s1600/20181007_174902.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Ejrr4EDSJFynjAbhdAXz8E9E6kZ-S5a4riNok_zRHWxKTdSYO71C1AaGAnXem9y552KpybscCnPfqm9k4BNhvAsqsBPZTV5WfqiCWP2uQMqdPXZJcw-OQixwzYZaBrZ4xTGg6E1N9To/s320/20181007_174902.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td> </tr>
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Jason Englishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02906214791366146934noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432475732998261764.post-46687960327764753612018-05-03T22:49:00.000+10:002018-05-03T22:49:02.881+10:002018 XCM Marathon National Champs AKA - Where is my bike?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioURBWb4xm6Zq5aplg59LFE44LXncIqF0Dc_1IuxHn2-9Gf3FGonpNLU3G7zZvdywMxt7PPiR6VNgQZPcrsq2jVsJ-DMJXQ8jNnbrIQc0UM4hPhAdr_kH846Eoqtubc85dU8KsZYytJ9U/s1600/31444875_10157346430847519_3371474380180684800_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="960" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioURBWb4xm6Zq5aplg59LFE44LXncIqF0Dc_1IuxHn2-9Gf3FGonpNLU3G7zZvdywMxt7PPiR6VNgQZPcrsq2jVsJ-DMJXQ8jNnbrIQc0UM4hPhAdr_kH846Eoqtubc85dU8KsZYytJ9U/s400/31444875_10157346430847519_3371474380180684800_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">pic: <a aria-describedby="js_1d3" aria-owns="js_1bu" class="_hli" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/user.php?id=598142518" href="https://www.facebook.com/marcus.monteith" id="js_1d4" style="background-color: white; color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 600; text-align: left;">Marcus Monteith</a></td></tr>
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I was planning to write a short and simple report on my visit to Townsville for the 2018 Marathon Champs however, it wasn't a simple weekend.<br />
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My trip started by racing a missed train from Wollongong to Helensburgh where I finished the train trip to the Sydney domestic terminal. I was there an hour before the flight so I was a little surprised, upon arriving in Townsville, to have Virgin inform me that my bike had missed the flight. With no bike I missed out on a lap around the course Friday evening and instead opted for last minute school work. At midnight my bike got it's own maxi taxi to the campsite where I was staying.<br />
With race practice open from 1pm on Saturday, Peter Lister and I planned for a mid-afternoon ride. We ducked into the shops around 2pm with our bikes locked on the roof of the car. The bikes were locked with expensive bike racks, which I have had 100% confidence in. After a 15 minute shop we returned to the car to find security having a discussion and a lack of bikes on the roof. I would have thought a bike should have be safe locked on a car at 2pm, high up on a big 4wd in the middle of a busy shopping center car park just outside McDonalds. I was wrong. With lots of kids roaming around, there would have been some witnesses to the theft. In borrowed thongs I took off in pursuit of a rider who appeared to be riding what could have been one of our duallies. A few kilometers later I was so blistered up I called for a pickup and Pete, who had been circling, picked me up so we could have a chat to the police.<br />
With around 300 Facebook shares we got a message that our bikes had been spotted while we were getting the car finger printed. It was interesting to hear the police radio as crew were directed to the sighting. Unfortunately the bikes went out of sight of our spotter and Pete and I were left lapping around the area asking anyone and everyone if they had seen our bikes. After a couple of hours Pete found a family with kids who had seen the bikes and knew who had them. The uncle took us around to the house however the kids who had taken the bikes apparently weren't there. We left our phone number and the offer of a cash reward and headed off to continue searching. Within half an hour we had a call to come back to the same house to pick up our bikes. After we un-reported our bikes stolen, we head back to camp to assess the damage.<br />
I had all my Di2 cables pulled, a speed sensor taken, co2 and tubes played with and power meter battery removed. Pete wasn't so lucky. With the rack Pete was using, it required damaging the frame to remove the bike. It also looked like it had been impacted in a few places. I was lucky to borrow cables from a junior, Owen Elvy, who spent a few hours stripping his bike. At 1am we had managed to route the wires and it was time for a few hours sleep.<br />
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My first ride on my bike in FNQ was on the first lap of the xcm race course. I was feeling pretty good but the bike still needed a few adjustments to make it right. I had no real race plan at Townsville rather than trying to maintain a solid pace and try and stay in the top 10. Initially I felt good for it. Heading into the single track I was just inside 10th however, dropping a chain, getting lost starting the second lap and generally struggling to corner with too much air in my front fork I lost a few more places. By the 3rd out of 5 laps I started to get the hang of the track and started to increase my pace. As I started to pick up a couple of positions I managed to cut a side wall. I didn't think it was so bad so gave it some co2. Five minutes later I put in a tube that had been clearly damaged during the theft. I managed to grab a spare tube but spending over 15 minutes trackside is not a good way to place well. I was mindful of running tubeless tyres and rode far more conservatively. I thought I should still try and have a race and so picked up a few positions in the remaining 1.5 laps. I found it entertaining to catch a busted Michael Harris about to head down the second last descent. I managed to get a gap on him along the last flat tar section and my lead felt very safe up to the final climb where he smashed past. I held his wheel expecting a sprint for the line before Michael had a lay down and let me roll past.<br />
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I love mountain biking. Here is summary of the standout moments of my trip:<br />
* being lent a tube during a race<br />
* being lent Di2 cables for a race (costing the donor hours of his time)<br />
* having so many people in the local and mtb community sharing around the pictures of our lost bikes<br />
* having people join in the search for the bikesJason Englishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02906214791366146934noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432475732998261764.post-32379210119966955182017-10-30T21:52:00.000+11:002017-10-30T21:52:05.186+11:00Whaka 100 - I hate you, I don't think I will be able to ride in AUS ever again....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The Whaka 100 is the best marathon race in the world. I have ridden around the Redwoods MTB Park where the event is held but I couldn't design a loop that takes in all the best trails in the right direction.<br />
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<b>The Logistics</b><br />
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I was surprised how easy it is to get to Rotorua from Newcastle. I simply jumped on the train with my bike boxed, swapped at Central and was off to the International Terminal.<br />
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On arriving in Auckland after midnight I regretted not brushing the bindies from my mtb tyres. The customs process took longer than I had hoped for....<br />
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I took the shuttle option to Rotorua and arrived just before 5am Saturday. At 7.30am I was building my bike up before riding to the Redwoods to run two mountain bike clinics.<br />
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The way home after the race was much easier. A 5.20pm flight out of Rotorua to Auckland had me in Sydney not long after 9pm. If I hadn't of slept past my train stop I could have been home by 2am Monday morning....<br />
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<b>The MTB Clinics</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOfYJhIhEXSOPoIfc1MHQAmFO00h0jQZeJlKy5c24_Z4gwqG5SXRetUak_Bo3W86OlmksnyI-WOs2WF09watFfRuNXwmbtv8t58Iwgcy3NTZB6e78nRYLHR-HsvowrfkRbY1JlOMOdc4I/s1600/20171022_145657.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOfYJhIhEXSOPoIfc1MHQAmFO00h0jQZeJlKy5c24_Z4gwqG5SXRetUak_Bo3W86OlmksnyI-WOs2WF09watFfRuNXwmbtv8t58Iwgcy3NTZB6e78nRYLHR-HsvowrfkRbY1JlOMOdc4I/s320/20171022_145657.jpg" width="320" /></a>Running clinics for this event was a real eye opener. It gave me an insight into the wide variety of riders who attempt this race. There were riders who initially weren't sure which pedal to drop when cornering while others were gravity experienced riders who had more skill than I!<br />
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I can see now why the course was designed well to have 'b line' options for those that weren't confident to attempt the more technical features.<br />
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<b>The Shootout</b><br />
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Saturday afternoon was a 1.8km shootout. Riders were seeded with the predicted faster riders going off last. I was off second last but with my previous race being a 24 hour I wasn't planning or expecting to be half competitive! The 1.8km individual time trial started with a steady climb that I started out way too hard on. By the top I was feeling light headed and was glad to have pre-ridden the course in the skills clinics. I almost had all the lines dialed except for the spectacular final creek crossing that I later learnt had a nice jump line to avoid time lost smashing through the water. I snuck into a 5th overall less than 2 seconds off the leader.<br />
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<b>The Race </b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP12g_753MZkmpTOj3RUkuwgUvIoaxIBLcIh0OMFKH4xG4jLAEewQnoOQEC46ZL-NymwOfcU2HPhrTKEzCnHlTbyLst0VogFFpAMHj_uGlaTOBj4oDBEJq1rEzJQqNnvvxG1UJ62OObxk/s1600/Whaka100_2017_001899.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP12g_753MZkmpTOj3RUkuwgUvIoaxIBLcIh0OMFKH4xG4jLAEewQnoOQEC46ZL-NymwOfcU2HPhrTKEzCnHlTbyLst0VogFFpAMHj_uGlaTOBj4oDBEJq1rEzJQqNnvvxG1UJ62OObxk/s320/Whaka100_2017_001899.jpg" width="320" /></a>The race started fairly sensibly. I got to start on the front row so I just slid into the top few spots into the first single track. Everything felt quite calm until we hit the first few climbs and the race was really on. I spent a lot of time watching my heart rate in the mid to high 180's before I let the top few boys ride off.<br />
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This is one of the few marathons where there is limited benefit from drafting - on the fire roads you are normally heading up and on the single track you really want to have space to ride at your own pace. For this reason, perhaps I should have settled down earlier so my legs were fresher at the end of the race.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib-5E2IkmIPJmFUtkJzSpw5iXpyKcJBB0GaDLKNqSkPiIiA_waWE5gFuCx0wuBJrYgskOigBCRGKLHxtEyJ5jilAW95ET-6GsGXYtuBwGFIXO3fGaJ1kv5kNZgBZNRcIrl165SZQ37ObQ/s1600/Whaka100_2017_003510.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib-5E2IkmIPJmFUtkJzSpw5iXpyKcJBB0GaDLKNqSkPiIiA_waWE5gFuCx0wuBJrYgskOigBCRGKLHxtEyJ5jilAW95ET-6GsGXYtuBwGFIXO3fGaJ1kv5kNZgBZNRcIrl165SZQ37ObQ/s320/Whaka100_2017_003510.jpg" width="320" /></a>From around the 30-60km mark I rode with Tristan Haycock. I managed to sneak a bottle from his brother who was providing support via e-bike during the event. I rode around with a 2L Camelbak which helped me get through most of the race however I still had to stop a couple of times to fill up bottles. In hindsight, I would have been better to put a spare Camelbak in my mid bag drop, then it would have been just the one quick stop.<br />
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While the race course has a fair bit of climbing, the climbing is not unrewarded. For each fire road up there was a new fun and flowy downhill trail to explore. It was difficult to predict how hard to hit each corner. I kept expecting to need to use more brakes than what was necessary.<br />
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At the end of the race I missed catching 2nd place by less than 20 seconds. I put a post on Facebook suggesting that results are not so important when the trails are so good. It is a funny race when I think about how good the trails are - I kept forgetting that I was in a race. My pacing at times went out the window as the trails just encouraged me to pedal faster and hit the corners and doubles with more speed.<br />
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I have seriously found it hard to get out on the MTB now I am back in AUS. Nothing compares to the Whaka 100! #postNZlow<br />
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<br />Jason Englishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02906214791366146934noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432475732998261764.post-24193633060641220092017-10-16T19:59:00.002+11:002017-10-19T10:44:21.793+11:002017 Australian 24 Hour National Championships - Tips to Success<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZT_TioqQb-JHXib3n-iypJIB2XXTNI_IJmXVoRr4KuGg1cmsc7wIHcL7WJcp-c1LgO-E5XnrYbE56Z6qnykXtDRNMM2jhotv1e6dmFGiSG5I3V0mF5wIzxcID8_hRU0SATgTP0ZHR5rc/s1600/GRP_24HRSN17-0228_preview.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZT_TioqQb-JHXib3n-iypJIB2XXTNI_IJmXVoRr4KuGg1cmsc7wIHcL7WJcp-c1LgO-E5XnrYbE56Z6qnykXtDRNMM2jhotv1e6dmFGiSG5I3V0mF5wIzxcID8_hRU0SATgTP0ZHR5rc/s320/GRP_24HRSN17-0228_preview.jpeg" width="320" /></a>Training<br />
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Racing the National Champs has been my main focus since losing the title last year. With school holidays a couple of weeks before I had the chance to do some longer rides and play catch up. I have had less training time this year with new hours at a new job. For the last few weeks of school term I had the alarm going off at 3.30am so I could ride from 4-7am each morning. I found using a power meter made my training time far more effective as I could carefully monitor training load. I have Stages power meters on all my bikes for this purpose.<br />
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Tapering<br />
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In Canberra some generous people offered us their house while they were away. Arriving a few days before the race allowed us the chance to enjoy Canberra cycle-ways and allowed me the chance for a sneaky ride around Stromlo and Majura Pines before the race. This meant I had quite a few days of low intensity riding. I also tried tweaking my body clock by sleeping in as much as possible!<br />
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The Track<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKaANLzXYidiKsz63fBb85MSLNPq8wN2W51WD_9I-PkPxypjsoK-iDrL_d5TE1aasciS3Yxz47NVikavuQ_tYfaQygms6KoRd0-MSef9vPUHJ1v1SuYdZnqS7eBlaxwhFCP5EutH8jLYM/s1600/4Z8A5180_preview.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKaANLzXYidiKsz63fBb85MSLNPq8wN2W51WD_9I-PkPxypjsoK-iDrL_d5TE1aasciS3Yxz47NVikavuQ_tYfaQygms6KoRd0-MSef9vPUHJ1v1SuYdZnqS7eBlaxwhFCP5EutH8jLYM/s320/4Z8A5180_preview.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo: Russ Baker</td></tr>
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The track had been reduced to around 9km with less climbing than had first been planned. I spent the first 6 hours of daylight testing which corners and sections I could avoid braking on. The track had a few really fun sections with small doubles, berms and fast and flowy sections. This wasn't always the case and some sections were painfully rough,<br />
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Support / Pit Crew<br />
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My team was made of my parents, Jen (who camped out with the kids) and Jason Moxham from Fizo Cycling. He was looking after a few riders and was available for mechanical issues during the race. I need to thank my parents for driving Jen and I back to Sydney so I could work on Monday.<br />
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The Bikes / XTR DI2<br />
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The course was quite lumpy and bumpy so I picked the XTR Pivot Mach 429 SL. There was no chance I was going to use a hardtail on such a rough course. These bikes have Shimano XTR DI2 which minimise the risk of repetitive strain injuries of the wrist and fingers.<br />
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The wheels and tyres<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZpj-KlUgBjwmc8ufPP_nVl6yXbFmyFmxBxZGuYiJNmFuB9WA3UnQBnyIcAM64hY-hSI0rfSSoUiBWFgePbwVgoL2IgIBWtkP6b1Vt-SEYkjr2l1VKyKq0HsTvcZb19OakFVdXr17VR2c/s1600/20171005_083720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZpj-KlUgBjwmc8ufPP_nVl6yXbFmyFmxBxZGuYiJNmFuB9WA3UnQBnyIcAM64hY-hSI0rfSSoUiBWFgePbwVgoL2IgIBWtkP6b1Vt-SEYkjr2l1VKyKq0HsTvcZb19OakFVdXr17VR2c/s320/20171005_083720.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
I used Stans NoTubes Valour Wheels with a WTB Ranger on the front and WTB Nine Line on the back. This combination was perfect for this course as I was able to hit the corners with more control than normal. The light weight wheels allow for easy acceleration out of corners.<br />
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Compression<br />
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On the start line I was heckled for wearing M2O socks however any compression on this course really prevented excess muscle soreness associated with trying to stablise the body and muscles when smashing the downhills. During the night I was putting on the arm warmers downhill just for the extra support rather than for the coolness of the night.<br />
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Shoes / Helmets<br />
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I had the choice between the top of the line super light, carbon North Wave Extreme Tech shoe or the cheaper North Wave Spike shoes (that retail for just over $100). As I hadn't really worn the carbon show in enough, I choose the Spike knowing it would have more flex allowing for a more comfortable ride while sacrificing only small power transfer gains associated with the carbon model. I have 2 Lazer Z1 helmets that I use for race with one setup with a light for the night.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ZV9oJII9OinVZItN2WBG_97cWNalI4uydMCq3qYrX5k19hfz6_9A4C5QH0V_i7xU4-Y2Lcdkcir44LZbA_YJLGxhh3NFSMK1tuHnIKNsw6SznNGdFO_vbAPqXp_YZGorzLmf5OyNvP0/s1600/22254799_10156021851546029_3832454650154421078_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1093" data-original-width="1600" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ZV9oJII9OinVZItN2WBG_97cWNalI4uydMCq3qYrX5k19hfz6_9A4C5QH0V_i7xU4-Y2Lcdkcir44LZbA_YJLGxhh3NFSMK1tuHnIKNsw6SznNGdFO_vbAPqXp_YZGorzLmf5OyNvP0/s320/22254799_10156021851546029_3832454650154421078_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo: Brett Clark</td></tr>
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Glasses<br />
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I have been using the Adidas Zonyk Pro. These lenses are photochromatic so they get darker when needed. I have a daytime set which have a light tint that gets to a medium darkness and a clear set that go to a light tint when required. I would be interested in trying the Aero Pro version which drops the lower frame which would allow for better vision and perhaps a lighter set of glasses.<br />
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Cycle kit<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtoqFZPonLLz1sNXfE3SMomfu-y1SZUdI-cb358lSNR8qd-AARPQOkHRQuCS-0lTyFvMWNRjJvvYoOFLUbPE6Af3A4QNScZDkju9yDPTGKeZg8usA7ehm5nS5ehPA7krjsJ0b0pQXVAbo/s1600/22291117_10156021849451029_5166942516471657676_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1229" data-original-width="1600" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtoqFZPonLLz1sNXfE3SMomfu-y1SZUdI-cb358lSNR8qd-AARPQOkHRQuCS-0lTyFvMWNRjJvvYoOFLUbPE6Af3A4QNScZDkju9yDPTGKeZg8usA7ehm5nS5ehPA7krjsJ0b0pQXVAbo/s320/22291117_10156021849451029_5166942516471657676_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo: Brett Clark</td></tr>
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I chose to wear my Pivot race kit, I have been waiting on a custom Santini kit but that may not be ready until next year. I have been training in my Pivot kit so I knew what I was in for. I also gave the M2O compression socks a try. I know I will always race in them on longer events when the temp is relatively low. They provided great support for tired legs as the race went on.<br />
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Seat / Bars / Grips<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUWmmlRAI1S8d9XGJsQdq4D_WOJC9NF5-iu5MAOjll2LSOvIHQ9ctWxXhhekYpC_D9veCJlqyEI5gPnZeoXXn97IlQQAX67XJOZUZd-6H4QjZJHWxf73dmTkzzMVJh_BYcAVnwZqF5lIM/s1600/22291219_10156021851441029_6494641657473336583_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUWmmlRAI1S8d9XGJsQdq4D_WOJC9NF5-iu5MAOjll2LSOvIHQ9ctWxXhhekYpC_D9veCJlqyEI5gPnZeoXXn97IlQQAX67XJOZUZd-6H4QjZJHWxf73dmTkzzMVJh_BYcAVnwZqF5lIM/s320/22291219_10156021851441029_6494641657473336583_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo: Brett Clark</td></tr>
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I use Mt Zoom bars which are super light and have a good 9 degree sweep which work well with my wrists. I have extra chunky foam ESI grips which work well to lesson the impact of the rough terrain. The seat I use is the light weight SL8 saddle from WTB which for a 149 gram seat is very comfortable.<br />
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Nutrition<br />
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Nutrition for me starts days before and doesn't end when the race does. I focus on a low fibre / high carbohydrate intake before the race for a couple of days leading up. On race morning I will have "fun" cereal and this time the ripoff Nutrigrain form Aldi was the choice. As I had eaten quite well in the days leading up I only had a banana sandwich 5 mins before the race started.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIbE8F6a7Le8-gU9uGxG9rFPfDTdHee3-64P44GJPvXpFJTPvf6Wfed37I-tZHog1gXYXyGz9IospuAVpHozTJpoYZm6C2CRX3HEdmAEDKr7BPZDh265VNfGnOtcYFBf0_fkN_kor6UH0/s1600/22339029_10156032164091029_9161244085189330338_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIbE8F6a7Le8-gU9uGxG9rFPfDTdHee3-64P44GJPvXpFJTPvf6Wfed37I-tZHog1gXYXyGz9IospuAVpHozTJpoYZm6C2CRX3HEdmAEDKr7BPZDh265VNfGnOtcYFBf0_fkN_kor6UH0/s320/22339029_10156032164091029_9161244085189330338_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo: Brett Clark</td></tr>
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During the race I carried a selection of GU products. My pockets were stuffed with Stroopwafels, Chews, a gel flask filled with Salted Caramel and assortment of Gel flavours to keep things interesting. To replace electrolytes I ran Gu Tabs in my bottles during the day and swapped to GU Roctane Electrolyte Capsules during the night. This combination seems to be working quite well.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8NXOXFTjcmZJ9RrhtozPPFUvdSPqQA5aRSDrkJN7-ortP8XM3FQnHGXEN3kK1W-okIDvgKnoqpyGYQTcEC8AUvvpDuduoxqYISrz67sY-_PiycdAX2bbcJCxzHG5QEAMHNVf8J0d-8f4/s1600/20171003_125744.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8NXOXFTjcmZJ9RrhtozPPFUvdSPqQA5aRSDrkJN7-ortP8XM3FQnHGXEN3kK1W-okIDvgKnoqpyGYQTcEC8AUvvpDuduoxqYISrz67sY-_PiycdAX2bbcJCxzHG5QEAMHNVf8J0d-8f4/s320/20171003_125744.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
Camelbak have been very generous supplying me with enough podium bottles to prevent my support crew from doing too many refill trips. While the laps weren't long enough to need a Camelbak Pack I will be using one next week at the Whaka 100 held near Rotura.<br />
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Lights<br />
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I have been using NiteRider Lights for the past 10 years and these things have improved significantly. I have the 1800 Race on my bars and run them on 200 lumens which last a full 12 hours. I use the lightweight MiNewt Pro 770 on the helmet also on low. The 1800 provides a really good wide beam and the MiNewt has a more focused and brighter light.<br />
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Massage / recovery<br />
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I have been lucky to have Di from <i>Your Massage Therapist </i>work on my recovery with massage and stretching. This has made a significant difference however, I need to develop a more frequent relationship with my foam roller.<br />
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Financial support<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi368darNYuGexQWRVSADVOuwekL3oWXoLWnvzyNC3pmg7sM59gfnTRLG4M7sgPajk1lHA1GS-lwRCu5jyHrn66U1RJ0V09EHOySbcxZj6p3lqVKR7psFvgOQ3EGq5StNHSaXR7mnjChnM/s1600/20171003_105406.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi368darNYuGexQWRVSADVOuwekL3oWXoLWnvzyNC3pmg7sM59gfnTRLG4M7sgPajk1lHA1GS-lwRCu5jyHrn66U1RJ0V09EHOySbcxZj6p3lqVKR7psFvgOQ3EGq5StNHSaXR7mnjChnM/s320/20171003_105406.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I need to thank Percival Property (Port Macquarie) for assisting me to attend this race.Their assistance has helped me out with the costs of travel to this race and that of entry.<br />
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CORC and WEMBO<br />
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A big thanks need to go to CORC for running this event and WEMBO for providing me with a good incentive to race towards. I'm stoked to win so I can wear the green and gold National Champion Jersey in Scotland for 2018.<br />
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<br />Jason Englishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02906214791366146934noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432475732998261764.post-26656796173678526862017-06-15T21:27:00.001+10:002017-06-15T21:40:52.118+10:002017 24hr world titles -finale Ligurie, Italy<div style="background-color: white; color: #262626; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8M99gibYvImXAqmZ8qwMkA38c3AoVrlfeIIb0KZAm3u5Kttb5l6ZGsXdBh2824hhqTD6n-JhhSrHTH1MZQK0wPrHZUstDuhFG-k59PsyW9_vp9MNb9KVtrgBYTrpYqbBu5WR1tyHnOgU/s1600/34938965011_3549790b97_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="273" data-original-width="411" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8M99gibYvImXAqmZ8qwMkA38c3AoVrlfeIIb0KZAm3u5Kttb5l6ZGsXdBh2824hhqTD6n-JhhSrHTH1MZQK0wPrHZUstDuhFG-k59PsyW9_vp9MNb9KVtrgBYTrpYqbBu5WR1tyHnOgU/s320/34938965011_3549790b97_z.jpg" width="320" /></a>My focus race of the year has been the WEMBO 24hr, however, this year has been a little different for me. I have put together a little race report and then the logistics I had to consider when really trying to have a good attempt at this event.<br />
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<b>The race</b></div>
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The race seemed to go great from the start. I took a sensible approach from the gong and ran the start 2km feeling like I was holding back. I aimed to be in a position where I wasn't going to get held up too much come the first single track and that almost was the case. My position was pretty good except the race loop rejoined the run loop where there was a crazy traffic jam allowing for any advantage I had to be quickly absorbed.<br />
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I rode in a pretty controlled manner for the first lap letting the faster riders take off and I rode around with Josh Tostado. I was really happy with his pace, however, he had forgotten his ankle timing chip and I didn't see him again until after he stopped to get that sorted. Cory Wallace joined me within a few minutes of the second lap and we started to come across heaps of riders walking through this next lap.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Y6vikUnOgz4/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Y6vikUnOgz4?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe>I started the third lap with Cory and I found myself getting frustrated as he was able to sneak past some of the riders (who were walking most of the track) and got a clear gap. I started the fourth lap learning to be more vocal and with the same level of intensity managed to ride one of my faster laps. I started to settle into what felt like a maintainable pace and made an effort to really drink well as it felt pretty hot. I was taking on an electrolyte bottle through the pits and was drinking a plain water bottle at the half way checkpoint. This hydration strategy was working quite well but the sun and lack of sunscreen was starting to take a toll.<br />
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By 7 hours of racing I started to feel sick, like I was going to throw up. This isn't that uncommon for me during a race as I <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjAN3_-VX0RiNiZEAZOWWXdxVZz-4jT6zMs87chWlKlAUH7vzfwGzRIPk4ZU68zbERGgEHdr9GXRzwSP8TQ83sSYQ-_Hp9ODPwYCl1WBDZQxmOLmDzIqEY68tHyw10bfPywwMs9GQT1NU/s1600/34226622874_40fd1f612c_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="314" data-original-width="472" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjAN3_-VX0RiNiZEAZOWWXdxVZz-4jT6zMs87chWlKlAUH7vzfwGzRIPk4ZU68zbERGgEHdr9GXRzwSP8TQ83sSYQ-_Hp9ODPwYCl1WBDZQxmOLmDzIqEY68tHyw10bfPywwMs9GQT1NU/s320/34226622874_40fd1f612c_z.jpg" width="320" /></a>often try nutritional challenges however, I wasn't being silly with food. I had bland / savoury options such as gnocchi, soup, noodles and white bread however, these weren't working that well to settle my guts. I eliminated the electrolyte tabs and went for the capsules but this mustn't have been the cause. I wasn't eating too many solids so I couldn't work out why I still had this sensation through the night. All I could do was back off the pace and try to just finish the event.<br />
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Night riding really only started after 9pm due to the extended hours of light in Italy. With a race starting at 10am that is a whole lot of sun in one go. It was probably a good thing to switch off race mode as night approached as it allowed me to keep sane dealing with mechanical issues rather than looking at trying to save time where possible.<br />
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Once the sun came up and with a couple of hours to go I managed to get some feedback from the Mt Zoom camp that I was in second position and a lap ahead. With no lap splits or feedback for the whole race it was great to know about that position. I had wondered if I was even within the top 10!<br />
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With 3 laps to go I managed to lose a Wahoo Element off the side of the track and spent 6-7 minutes looking for it with no luck. On my last lap I went back with my phone to connect with it but I couldn't find a way to get it to make a noise to help me track it. I could connect to it via bluetooth but had no way of finding it through the bush it decided to jump into.<br />
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Finishing the race I was pretty stoked to take a second. I'm a little disappointed I couldn't give Cory a good race to the line like in Rotorua. I may need to head to Scotland to have another go at it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhHYna6DD6PnUau8pvuddzydgRqj5IXu2EUIcgImWBZhWH5b5goDLi3ydqUQo3KR4Vs3WCPA-0qtG1f6AZsnK2q2S2kebBtnTw-B4QC68YxKlYmQ7IDY9Kc0_VlM2UMKVFUMox4Loga-0/s1600/34939017981_be64b5e83b_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="640" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhHYna6DD6PnUau8pvuddzydgRqj5IXu2EUIcgImWBZhWH5b5goDLi3ydqUQo3KR4Vs3WCPA-0qtG1f6AZsnK2q2S2kebBtnTw-B4QC68YxKlYmQ7IDY9Kc0_VlM2UMKVFUMox4Loga-0/s320/34939017981_be64b5e83b_z.jpg" width="320" /></a>I've learnt lots in 24 hour racing and there isn't a race where I don't pick up a new strategy. This time I learnt about the harmful effects of sun exposure. I have never been sun burnt through a jersey until this race. It seems funny how I remembered to put on the camera before the race but not sunscreen. <br />
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This is how I approached training and life leading up to Worlds.<br />
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<b>The pre-season base training</b><br />
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Normally I would do heaps of training over Jan and Feb through the school holidays. Before the NZ World Champs I was doing at least 1000km per week! With the race this year in June my training really started 3 months out. This allowed time to find a house, get sorted at a new job and a greater desire to wind up the training closer to June.</div>
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So how was I training for the worlds?</h3>
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I looked for longer races and filled an action packed calendar into the 3 month leading up. The races I choose included the Otway 300, Convict 100 + the ride home, thunderbolt adventure and the Merida Flight Centre 24hr.<br />
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<b>My typical training day</b><br />
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My typical day started with a 3.30am alarm, which gave enough time to ensure I was on the bike by 4am. I had to be home by 7am to get to work on time. I was getting home after work around 5pm which allowed for 30mins to hang out with kdis before dinner, baths and bedtime. By the time the kids were in bed by 7.30ish I would get myself organised for work the next day and make sure the bike was ready before crawling into bed ideally before 9pm.</div>
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<b>Something different - PT sessions</b><br />
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I was very fortunate to have a weekly personal trainer session with Andrew Gresham (POP) since February. Even though I was only doing this once I week I felt my core getting much stronger over the time which made my balance and control on the bike far easier.</div>
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<b>Massage</b><br />
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Paul and Di from <i>Your Massage Therapist</i> sponsored me for the 2017 season and Di provided massage and support which really helped me in the build up to Italy. Recovery is such an important part of training that I often overlook.</div>
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<b>Accommodation in Italy</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUI5f2AKniRd13vhdpiu2jfz5OGdN4jtYjlmGrFUWGkEJHaWZnlreLICspfrdPZW2jsItjVTOxbdRLaw6Zw_MHDX2Gj0Cxc00F8SRem6_pI9nKw3soLhbTNWNAY5FxxWLmbPShuJWGQow/s1600/34262800253_88ae9ac3ff_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="640" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUI5f2AKniRd13vhdpiu2jfz5OGdN4jtYjlmGrFUWGkEJHaWZnlreLICspfrdPZW2jsItjVTOxbdRLaw6Zw_MHDX2Gj0Cxc00F8SRem6_pI9nKw3soLhbTNWNAY5FxxWLmbPShuJWGQow/s320/34262800253_88ae9ac3ff_z.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
While the multiple bike accommodation hotels, B&Bs etc looked like the obvious place to stay I booked just up the hill from Pietra Ligure.<br />
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<b>Flights</b><br />
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Being a Velocity Gold Member, I flew with Etihad Airways just so I could use the Virgin Lounge along the way and this also allowed for some extra baggage. On the way over I managed to binge watch 5 movies. On the way back there were no movies just a deadline to get school reports finished!</div>
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<b>Helmets</b><br />
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I've been very lucky to have Lazer helmets on board. I have been using their helmets since 2008. It is essential to have a light helmet for a 24hr and the Z1's are just that. Two are required, one for the day and one for the night which will have lights setup and ready to swap onto during the dark.</div>
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<b>Tyres</b><br />
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I have been using WTB tyres for the past couple of years and the Nine Lines are a good balance between weight and durability. I really don't like the idea of stopping to fix a flat during a race. I have also used a variety of WTB tyres on my CX bike that I use in training.<br />
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<b>Glasses</b></div>
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Adidas Eyerwear have been looking after me for quite a few years now. This year I managed to get hold of the Zonyk with 2 photo-chromatic lenses. My night glasses change from a completely clear VARIO lense while my day time glasses change from a very light purple tint to a darker tint. These glasses provide maximal protection without impact on vision. The Aero Pro model look like a winner.<br />
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<b>Drive-train</b><br />
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I have had the privilege of using XTR for the past few years. This year the bikes got blinged up with DI2. My first go at using the electronic shifting was in Italy. I'm not sure I can use mechanical shifting again. The ease of just pressing a button and holding it in until the desired gear is reached is too easy! There is less chance of RSI related issues and the consistency of shifting just becomes fun!</div>
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<b>Lights</b><br />
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I have been using NiteRider Lights since 2007 and they have changed heaps. My current setup involves a 1800 Race on my bars with a 4 cell battery and a Minewt on my helmet with a 2 cell battery in my back pocket. I run both lights on low which means the shadows help the rocks and roots etc show up more. By running them on low I only need to do one change of batteries through the night and this occurred through a mid-night bike swap.<br />
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<b>Power meters</b><br />
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I have only had experience using Stages Power Meters and these things have been great. I actually have a power meter on every bike I own so I can carefully track TSS and determine if I need to train harder or longer. My numbers leading up to the worlds looked really good and I was hoping to capitalise on such good form (according to Today's Plan). By tracking these numbers I was able to make the most of the limited time I had to train. I was trying to get in 2.5 to 3hrs before work which meant starting as close to 4am as possible.<br />
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<b>Wheels</b><br />
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Stans is also another long term brand I have been with from Race Golds, to Podiums and now I'm using carbon Valor Wheels on both of my race bikes. These wheels have been great, highly durable and require little effort to get them up to speed. If there is one upgrade worth getting it is wheels.<br />
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<b>Handlebars</b><br />
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Mt Zoom were at the race and were able to bring me bars to lighten up my bikes. The My Zoom bars are extremely light but also durable. Matched with some ESI grips make these bars extremely comfortable. I use the 8 deg sweep flat bar which comes standard at 710mm.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1xxsejhWiy19nVz7yBvvgH8EwZnxMsMPDj9Nf_vTy9xXXf5NMzJUg0zlE7r6m88le5GD3vyGx2f5sh45FicW4f2ADOvdGL3jKIU6x5BFEW_fjJRgraRePkDKPqA4jgMCt-54nnnn8bfk/s1600/34909673722_de521a12f2_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="640" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1xxsejhWiy19nVz7yBvvgH8EwZnxMsMPDj9Nf_vTy9xXXf5NMzJUg0zlE7r6m88le5GD3vyGx2f5sh45FicW4f2ADOvdGL3jKIU6x5BFEW_fjJRgraRePkDKPqA4jgMCt-54nnnn8bfk/s320/34909673722_de521a12f2_z.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>Shoes</b><br />
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My North Wave Extreme Tech Shoes aren't only comfortable for the ride but also for the run. I wasn't too stressed about a 2km run from the start line.<br />
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<b>Clothing</b></div>
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Santini have been looking after my clothing and just in case, I had their arm warmers, leg warmers, winter vest and a rain jacket packed. If there is one thing to get sorted for a 24hr event it is ensuring your seat, chamois and everything in between are comfortable!<br />
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<b>Bikes</b><br />
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My first ride on the 2017 Pivot Mach 429 was in Italy. With boosted front and back wheels and 34mm forks these bikes surely can handle going fast. I'm glad I had two of these bikes packed. Finale is not a place for a fun hardtail ride.</div>
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<b>Nutrition</b><br />
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I have been playing around with GU nutrition for the past couple of years. The variety of gels, waffles, electrolytes and chews help to keep things interesting. I also like the electrolyte capsule they have which work when nutrition goes bad and you need to try and eat and drink as plain as possible while still getting electrolyte down.<br />
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<b>Bike Computer</b><br />
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I have been using the Wahoo element for the past couple of year and these have been great for 24hr racing with multiple bikes. I just pair the power meters before the race and it doesn't matter what bike you are on, the Wahoo finds your power meter and gets on with tracking stats. I'm just dissappointed to leave one in Italy, somewhere...<br />
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<b>Percival Property</b><br />
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Percival Property have been managing our rental property for years and looked after the sale of our house in Port Macquarie. The team at Percival have been looking after the local junior state road competition but were also able to help me out with some of the expenses associated with racing this year.<br />
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<b>Leichts Tyres and Auto</b><br />
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Leichts have been looking after my car with servicing and tyres while in Port Macquarie. This has been a great cost saver and one I have missed and really appreciated since moving to Newcastle.<br />
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<b>Pit support</b><br />
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My original pit support was going to include Jen, Jason Moxham and perhaps my parents. The accommodation was booked for everyone to come over, however, with buying a house a couple of weeks before the event this trip slid a few spots down on the financial priority list. I was very fortunate to have Jason Moxham come across with me to help work on bikes and negotiate the Italian roads, and kerbs etc...<br />
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Images are By: 24h Of Finale<br />
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Jason Englishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02906214791366146934noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432475732998261764.post-30878548661408676882016-11-04T13:10:00.001+11:002016-11-04T13:10:11.343+11:002016 Whaka 100 - Rotorua<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAYP0Ef3Ir4i-ezB4DEUfWtI5U5oNHMj9DdR5E5ovjIzMZxnJBjzFc13-uylbSVqVQ-jQCD14JOQcqnKv2rukRo8Nhs6uUUzKMHGdxF4pxLBeDubChYP44XLA4feznR7BTeL5VyqXTcog/s1600/14666106_10154663335007386_5822082772349206961_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAYP0Ef3Ir4i-ezB4DEUfWtI5U5oNHMj9DdR5E5ovjIzMZxnJBjzFc13-uylbSVqVQ-jQCD14JOQcqnKv2rukRo8Nhs6uUUzKMHGdxF4pxLBeDubChYP44XLA4feznR7BTeL5VyqXTcog/s320/14666106_10154663335007386_5822082772349206961_n.jpg" width="320" /></a>The Whaka 100 had been on my wish list for years. The Redwoods, on the outskirts of Rotorua have the world's best single track. I have only ridden parts of the forest. I thought the best way to see everything is to ride everything and that's what Nduro Events set out to achieve through the design of the Whaka100. The other objective was to make this one of the hardest marathon events. I think they achieved both objectives. It's not often it takes me more than 5hr 30m for a marathon!<br />
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My adventure started on Friday afternoon after school. I arrived into Auckland International Airport at 11:30pm, picked up a hire car around 12:15am and arrived at the Holiday Inn Rotorua around 3am. After a few hours of sleep, food shopping and bike building it was time to hit the trails. I managed to miss the 'seeding' as I arrived half way through the scheduled time. I should have registered at 2pm rather than turning up at 3:30pm thinking that seeding would run the whole time until 5pm.<br />
I managed to sneak in a loop of the last 10km before briefing where riders were allocated a start position based on their performance in this sprint event.<br />
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After the seeded riders were called up I managed to secure a place on the 3rd or 4th row. This wouldn't normally be a problem in a marathon in Australia as there is normally fireroad for the first few kms for people to sort positions. To justify having seeding there was very limited overtaking for the first 6-7km. Next year I wont be skipping the seeding!<br />
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The first 6-7km of single track seemed very familiar as lots was used in the 24 Hour World Champs earlier it the year. I had to be patient riding behind a train of riders as I considered how much time the leaders would have been putting into me. Once the first firetrail appeared I put on the pace. I knew I was probably riding too hard at this stage however I managed to bridge across to the top group of 5-6 riders. I couldn't believe I had caught back up.<br />
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Heading up the first good climb the group dropped back to 5 of us. I still felt ok but the top couple of riders were starting to push harder. Once we hit familiar single track that I had ridden multiple times during my last race here, I felt I was struggling to ride well. I just didn't feel confident cornering but despite this I was not losing too much time to the riders with me. It wasn't until a guy on a hardtail caught me on a downhill section of single track that I really felt like I was struggling!<br />
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After the first KOM I was a few minutes down on the top 3 and a had a little gap on the riders behind. I kept the pace on and I was feeling pretty good. My hydration strategy involved taking a 1.5L camelbak and a drink bottle to fill up at the half way point. Normally over 2L would have been fine racing a marathon. It was around the 65km mark that I started to feel really confident on the trails. This was possibly because I backed off the pace a little as I aimed to conserve fluid but I started really leaning the bike right over. I started having heaps of fun hitting burms as hard as I could while trying to make little tabletops and doubles. I was really having a great time! Positions didn't seem important as I focused more on pushing my limits on the single track. That is until I rode into 3rd place at the start of the 2nd and final KOM around the 60km mark.<br />
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By 70km I had completely run out of fluid but just pushed through to the 75km mark fighting off cramps and backing off the pace as I anticipated there would be a drink refill at this 'tech zone'. I managed to get a refill and could see the leaders were only 3 minutes up the road at this point. One drink bottle wasn't enough at this point of the race, playing catchup on hydration is never good. By 85km I had drunk this replacement bottle as I rode up the last significant climb of the race. As I bombed down 'X Buns' onto 'Be Rude Not 2' I was sure I was following the orange 100km course marking. That is until part way down this section I could see the 50km and 10km marking but no 100km markings. Each intersection thereafter had only the 50km and 10km markings, so I looked for an exit and rode back up to the top of 'Be Rude Not 2'. While I knew I could follow the 50km course and get home, I wanted to make sure I rode the entire 100km course. The marshals at this point convinced me I was on track, so I filled my bottle again and got to ride 'Be Rude Not 2' twice! I wasn't stressed at all, this section of course is awesome! Once I hit the last 10km of course I had a permanent smile implanted. The bike felt like it would handle any speed I sent it around the flowy corners. It was great to ride this last section of track the day before and see how much better I was riding it a second time after 90km of cornering practice!<br />
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Coming across the line I was surprised to have still held onto 3rd place. I have already started working on plans for coming back next year. Ideally travelling with a group to make it as easy as possible for international riders to attend this event. Hopefully there will be enough riders keen to share a minibus.<br />
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Highlights - Getting to ride the world's best single track, getting to learn how to ride single track, being able to maintain I high heart rate and having Tim, the event organisor pass me a bottle and clean my glasses and the half way feed!<br />
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What I would do different - Drop another Camelbak at the bag drop / 50km section, make sure I make the seeding, allow more time to get to the airport and spend some more time riding the Redwoods!<br />
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Thanks to Nduro for the invite over, I'm so glad I made the trip. Thanks Dan for providing the company on the way over. It was great to have the Pivot Mach429SL for this course. While a hardtail may have been faster on the climbs, I was having far more fun on the downhills!<br />
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<br />Jason Englishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02906214791366146934noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432475732998261764.post-29120318938312416702016-11-02T09:27:00.000+11:002016-11-02T09:27:00.999+11:002016 24hr Solo Australian National Champs<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOi8JqYj1g6jtGPgr4bsP7FzYxI_hj_lY1xesvc8PQfp2UE_RYwaSr4i9DSaJHmY4tHDGMKtlsMhisaKoWgTTK1JSVkRJ5ppvBw0hW83HRlUQfWqPBDRMMFrbPq0lguUz1Fmp5uVRwHUo/s1600/14543823_1319156921430202_4564523743079423956_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOi8JqYj1g6jtGPgr4bsP7FzYxI_hj_lY1xesvc8PQfp2UE_RYwaSr4i9DSaJHmY4tHDGMKtlsMhisaKoWgTTK1JSVkRJ5ppvBw0hW83HRlUQfWqPBDRMMFrbPq0lguUz1Fmp5uVRwHUo/s320/14543823_1319156921430202_4564523743079423956_o.jpg" width="320" /></a>It has taken a while to put together a race report for the Scott 24hr. I guess this is the first year I wasn't super excited to be racing it. I made the decision to race in the Hero MTB Himalaya in the weeks leading up knowing that it could affect my performance. I wasn't sure exactly how it would. I thought I could come back super light and ready to climb from dodgy food or super fit from the altitude and climbing.<br />
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As the race started I felt the pace was quite comfortable. As I lapped around with Ed McDonald for the first 5-6 hours I felt good. I was having fun with his company and was enjoying riding the Stromlo Trails. The course had been been closed most of the week and a modified course was being run due to the amount of rain Canberra had taken. Even though I only ride Stromlo once or twice a year, the course felt very familiar.<br />
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It was interesting riding with a heart rate monitor for this race. There was one moment early on when I turned to Ed and told him that one of us was in trouble. Riding at a solid pace up the first climb my heart rate was just sitting around 130bpm. Normally at the same power output I would have been doing closer to 170bpm. Later on in the race when I did aim for a harder lap the max heart rate I could hit was 166bpm. I should have been closer to 185bpm.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUYJ8lqK892pUl-B3BqSV5El-8THqvQSRdnAiCMc7fVrhewrgdtxerhqN8Lo_GUEtTsW6MXvO43K11Kec7MfIGPF6IyTc-CqGR4awo-WmjhYJNL2baU0rIKsKM6EMx3Ne2LvHzwT0r8h0/s1600/14542301_1318409018171659_1193706821461334580_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUYJ8lqK892pUl-B3BqSV5El-8THqvQSRdnAiCMc7fVrhewrgdtxerhqN8Lo_GUEtTsW6MXvO43K11Kec7MfIGPF6IyTc-CqGR4awo-WmjhYJNL2baU0rIKsKM6EMx3Ne2LvHzwT0r8h0/s320/14542301_1318409018171659_1193706821461334580_o.jpg" width="320" /></a>I'm not sure if these two factors played a part but there was a moment when I was a few minutes ahead of Ed around the 6-7hr mark that I wasn't sure I was able to finish the event. It is hard to describe how I felt. It was like I had a 100km training ride scheduled. I felt like I had around 3km to go and was just going to finish up early because I felt too busted to ride around the block to hit 100km.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNA0xSVCx4s8SCJVR9VJ23OJqw2zQd_wkL3DUwZVkr-ZigOpwKK-riGxRHYD0k1HR0pgyPxX8qUOapecHV9d4xzlPRV_KXxIv-epr8aBOvQQECNf1o_5duBfZV5TbsKdkcdMgTmKrVE-c/s1600/14612519_10153762212787447_7535011919965266161_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNA0xSVCx4s8SCJVR9VJ23OJqw2zQd_wkL3DUwZVkr-ZigOpwKK-riGxRHYD0k1HR0pgyPxX8qUOapecHV9d4xzlPRV_KXxIv-epr8aBOvQQECNf1o_5duBfZV5TbsKdkcdMgTmKrVE-c/s320/14612519_10153762212787447_7535011919965266161_o.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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I was a little surprised how busted I felt at this point. I was eating well, my pacing felt comfortable, all I can put it down to is the effect of altitude. While the days were short in India and the climbing wasn't ridiculous the altitude really made me work each day and the sustained power was significant.<br />
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From that moment at the 6-7hr mark I was wondering if this is when other riders would normally pull out of a 24hr. I had no desire to continue, and I had no ability to be competitive. I just turned the pace off and watched my 3 min lead turn into a 3 min deficit in just 1 lap!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0c41zu1oYyjFNY7d1t0_6VBYIJtkPmjn7RYC1Qwu9MHv1Rl5qGoGzL6pDyjK4haJg_oVV6fgJZG3NAHFKdMMIVK5TzxRMwB3PSG-Q8rmA4qWeN4kr-GP8W7lBhvh_o3dg2rJFxY2Rww8/s1600/14543789_1319337461412148_1535818366692419781_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0c41zu1oYyjFNY7d1t0_6VBYIJtkPmjn7RYC1Qwu9MHv1Rl5qGoGzL6pDyjK4haJg_oVV6fgJZG3NAHFKdMMIVK5TzxRMwB3PSG-Q8rmA4qWeN4kr-GP8W7lBhvh_o3dg2rJFxY2Rww8/s320/14543789_1319337461412148_1535818366692419781_o.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
It felt different now riding Stromlo without feeling like I was racing. It was possibly a good thing as I had several technical and mechanical issues that normally would have caused me great stress. I just dealt with the issues knowing that loosing time really wasn't a concern. <br />
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Riding through the night I was starting to fall asleep early, possible due to the lack of adrenaline or lack of caffeine intake! I'm not sure how I use to do the night without caffeine. Either way, it still didn't seem long before the sun was up and the 6 + 6 riders provided company for the last part of the race.<br />
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It was great to look back and see the lap times and how consistent Ed was. It's about time he had the perfect race. A perfect race is a rare thing in 24hr racing. There is usually always an issue associated with pitting, lighting, tyres, forks, bike setup, nutrition or a crash. I really wanted to be the person to hand Ed the green and gold jersey on the podium. He rode so well for it! Next time I'll aim to make him work for it again, as long as India doesn't get in the way! <br />
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<br />Jason Englishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02906214791366146934noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432475732998261764.post-82760889929294076272016-10-15T21:19:00.001+11:002016-10-16T17:14:37.860+11:00Hero MTB Himalaya 2016 - You Can Do It!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMNzGMw3OZQVYWXBdMoxXgV7dxlpiHDNghxewh6IWbICsBWv0hKvty2QoifMCvNCnQuygxjUd3-fZo-w-lK8LZ9WNUp2g1cvz9s7_rhaNq9u2_-7Mvh69dRiHZGh78bHZ3g21XUAS58mo/s1600/14500638_991227537653575_6473867325559018872_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMNzGMw3OZQVYWXBdMoxXgV7dxlpiHDNghxewh6IWbICsBWv0hKvty2QoifMCvNCnQuygxjUd3-fZo-w-lK8LZ9WNUp2g1cvz9s7_rhaNq9u2_-7Mvh69dRiHZGh78bHZ3g21XUAS58mo/s320/14500638_991227537653575_6473867325559018872_o.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>Hero MTB Himalaya 2016 - You Can Do It!</b><br />
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Firstly this is not a race report. This as a recount of an amazing journey and details how and why you should do it!<br />
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<b>So what is the the Hero MTB Himalaya? </b><br />
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The Hero MTB Himalaya is a 9 day, 8 stage race across a variety of terrain. This year (2016) around 600km was covered and close to 15000vm climbed. Race distances are between 55 and 85km each day. The race starts at Shimla and finishes at Dharamshela, the home of the Dalai Lama. At this stage accommodation is at hotels for the first and last night with a tent city being setup each other night. Amazing food is included as part of the entry fee and the same cooks follow the race each day and provide more than enough options and volume for the hungry cyclist. <br />
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<b>So why should you do it?</b><br />
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There are many reasons why you should do this race. While some of the highlights of the trip were observed while racing, I really enjoyed all the 'extras' that were included to supplement this experience. The chance to race and also see how a different culture operates is priceless. I have met several new friends that I'm sure I'll meet up with again at other races.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-oM27jnPMeVolTMQc7BoFpNMF4f5IeubHEDeTfv3hRLGqRj2CjZkaSmjucx7OX5dJ0StTx8lbSiw40fQkiZc-fE9xc2Nm9Uk3bWMxXqGKEdeKmwrbww8f_cKJJj4OwirEsKZRDUhAo1Y/s1600/14523188_994560663986929_8614940102067525415_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-oM27jnPMeVolTMQc7BoFpNMF4f5IeubHEDeTfv3hRLGqRj2CjZkaSmjucx7OX5dJ0StTx8lbSiw40fQkiZc-fE9xc2Nm9Uk3bWMxXqGKEdeKmwrbww8f_cKJJj4OwirEsKZRDUhAo1Y/s320/14523188_994560663986929_8614940102067525415_n.jpg" width="320" /></a>The standouts for me include being driven around by taxi, buying fireworks, sampling foods, becoming addicted to chai tea, shopping in remote villages, visiting temples, witnessing amazing views, experiencing altitude while racing, downhills that don't end, 'live' race routes and unfamiliar animals, <br />
The chance to meet the Dalai Lama was a group highlight that I missed out on due to changed flights.<br />
I can highly recommend this trip if you want a one cost covers all trip while not needing to worry about the logistics of accommodation and meals.<br />
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<b>What do you need?</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAlbjyY4b9U1qUIbGzGDM4Xcso4AaB2Q6rax17I9PTLkl184I5LBY7KKvScXWG7FgeMLKrp6ukJb8Tp9slQqAucN1ZmQPpdr7rTlxzbkwP05babnh0ZgsSAuoNAoZ5wUBHh2XWHEYjTVw/s1600/14424817_984548764988119_3218154182467125902_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAlbjyY4b9U1qUIbGzGDM4Xcso4AaB2Q6rax17I9PTLkl184I5LBY7KKvScXWG7FgeMLKrp6ukJb8Tp9slQqAucN1ZmQPpdr7rTlxzbkwP05babnh0ZgsSAuoNAoZ5wUBHh2XWHEYjTVw/s320/14424817_984548764988119_3218154182467125902_o.jpg" width="320" /></a>Passport<br />
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Bike - I highly recommend a dual suspension bike due to the amount of rough roads and technical sections.<br />
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Bike lock - while I felt pretty safe over the whole trip, my bike did get stolen during the first night. I had it locked to the pedestrian fence but realise now I should have locked it to something more solid. Good thing the thief left it where they crashed it not far from the campsite!<br />
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Cash - I only got out 12,000 INR and that was enough to but a few souvenirs and beverages. Make sure you allow for the deposit for the timing chip which was 2,000 INR. I found most places took Mastercard so it wasn't often that cash was needed. <br />
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Spares - assume that there wont be any spares for your bike along the way. The only option you have will be to buy parts from the mechanic and hope they have what you need. Pack spare brake pads, a couple of tyres and 3-4 tubes.<br />
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Toiletries / other supplies - spare toilet paper, hand sanitation, antibacterial baby wipes, sunscreen, chamois cream, lip balm, anti diarrhea meds and gastrolyte for re-hydration if required.<br />
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Clothesline and laundry soap - hanging space was a premium at times.<br />
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Ear plugs - you will be sleeping near a snorer at some stage!<br />
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Travel Insurance - this must cover you while racing and the event organisers will want to see this before they let you race. The only option I could find was <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/">World Nomads</a>. When I purchased my insurance there was the option to indicate racing at specific altitudes.<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/zYd_4S6UrW0/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zYd_4S6UrW0?feature=player_embedded" style="clear: right; float: right;" width="320"></iframe><br />
Immunisations - I was advised to get jabs for Typhoid, Hep A, Tetanus and a flu vax.<br />
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Medical clearance letter - while you're at the<br />
doctors getting your jabs, ask for a clearance letter for the race and find out your blood type if you don't already know (required by event organisers).<br />
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E-visa - costs around $50 US and is something that shouldn't be done 3 days before leaving!<br />
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Flying internationally - I chose Singapore Airlines, they were reasonably priced and offered good timing to minimise total travel time.<br />
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For domestic flights once in India I used SpiceJet and Indigo. Both Airlines charged 4,500 INR (around $100 AUD) for a 15kg bike on top of the base ticket price. For this reason it is lots cheaper to go by bus if you have the time.<br />
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The race organisers provide a prepaid bus option and make sure you are around to make the bus. The level of care to ensure all riders get to the accommodation and to their flights etc is great.<br />
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The taxi trip wouldn't be much faster than a bus!<br />
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The first and last nights are at hotels, all other days through the race involves camping.<br />
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Arriving at the hotel and during briefing for the first day I was kicking myself for not bringing a hardtail. With the amount of climbing I thought this would be essential.<br />
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I tucked into the feed after briefing at around 7pm not realising that this was just snacks and that dinner was still to come! This was pretty standard for each of the following days.<br />
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<b>Food and water</b><br />
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My biggest concerns were food and water. My wife did a little bit of research for me and gave me the following rules that seemed to work well:<br />
* no buying from street vendors<br />
* no salad<br />
* no cut fruit or juices (unless bottled)<br />
* no meat/chicken dishes to be extra cautious<br />
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I was impressed that the standard price for a litre of water is around 50 cents AUD and it was readily available. Although there are signs at the Indian airports saying "drinking water" from water fountains, I would think twice about consuming it. I would suggest a <a href="http://www.camelbak.com/en/Sports-Recreation/Purification/Intro.aspx">Camelbak All Clear</a> or another treatment method if you were to drink this water.<br />
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<b>Bike setup / what to wear?</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Qha3Pb4i-10B5aFdCsAWfI4dQGJxdce36HjQ8wpnxU8CB0JDM-s5CUB92pUmHKgqq4yFxPIsvzfKXfacMryV64KuzUeEPdpGg2qy3hOc3iU1-YrhttiIqtqKAdfyWk5gP_Qth523FY8/s1600/2016-09-27+08.12.10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Qha3Pb4i-10B5aFdCsAWfI4dQGJxdce36HjQ8wpnxU8CB0JDM-s5CUB92pUmHKgqq4yFxPIsvzfKXfacMryV64KuzUeEPdpGg2qy3hOc3iU1-YrhttiIqtqKAdfyWk5gP_Qth523FY8/s320/2016-09-27+08.12.10.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Tyres - Strong tubeless tyres are a must if you want to avoid pinch flats and getting cut tyres as lots of the course is on sharp pointy rocks.<br />
Spares to carry - tyre levers, pump + CO2s, 2x spare tubes,<br />
Fluid - while some people attempted the race with just 1 drink bottle on their bike, I think 2 bottles or a Camelbak would be safer. I used a Camelbak on all but 2 of the shorter stages, and I needed it!<br />
Food - you should aim to be self sufficient in regards to food through the use of gels/bars etc. There are cakes, biscuits, bananas, water and electrolyte at each feedzone if you prefer to have a break.<br />
Profiles - course profiles are provided for each stage. These are essential for planning nutrition and pacing.<br />
Mobile phone - phone service is available at all campsites and for most of the race route. Just don't get Vodafone. Aircel seemed to offer the best coverage.<br />
Gloves - while some of the days are very hot, it is worth wearing full fingered gloves for safety<br />
Glasses - most of the riding is out in fairly open conditions. I used <a href="https://www.trekkinn.com/outdoor-mountain/adidas-eyewear-evil-eye-halfrim-pro-s-photochromatic/135982263/p?utm_source=google_products&utm_medium=merchant&id_producte=2628576&country=au&gclid=CjwKEAjwhILABRDwo8mlqt6ug38SJACNSq_k5eRCMQFbvnjiv9d2BdT0KrwrLnZQ0KQ2gxpzMNrYqxoCLVnw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">Adidas photochromatic</a> glasses that turn clear when heading into darker sections of forest.<br />
Sunscreen - the days are hot. I applied several times each day before starting. If you are planning on being out all day it may be worth carrying more to reapply<br />
Oil - a small bottle of lube should be carried to reapply if the chain is sounding nasty due to the number of creek crossings.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFjjslcFbTK9H60f-wD1rxX_SnMu3kUNWZn3lTDBdi2h71yD_7eAlm9LUz8W2MIS9ffSDTBmr8LVoWWobJaaBQ7p_nvM_VWUBAFQvk2wqxh-o-q0-3xwiMRFl8-AF886ds7HfmgjVPQoA/s1600/2016-09-25+09.13.51.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFjjslcFbTK9H60f-wD1rxX_SnMu3kUNWZn3lTDBdi2h71yD_7eAlm9LUz8W2MIS9ffSDTBmr8LVoWWobJaaBQ7p_nvM_VWUBAFQvk2wqxh-o-q0-3xwiMRFl8-AF886ds7HfmgjVPQoA/s320/2016-09-25+09.13.51.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmw6h_h3lyBbKGKF4rYIGhBEBbAAllU9sKuGhkGZufrM6snbTJYwSW7i4M5UkQZKtO3FYyiXo227JII76N3UaLSn33qIErsAd0hypxYzV9SacPFgGB9iQ3SnWz47Qr_pMRuQUFV0gbkGU/s1600/MTB-H-2016_Route-Profile_.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmw6h_h3lyBbKGKF4rYIGhBEBbAAllU9sKuGhkGZufrM6snbTJYwSW7i4M5UkQZKtO3FYyiXo227JII76N3UaLSn33qIErsAd0hypxYzV9SacPFgGB9iQ3SnWz47Qr_pMRuQUFV0gbkGU/s320/MTB-H-2016_Route-Profile_.png" width="320" /></a><b>Day 1</b> - Waking up in a hotel is always a great way to start a race. With a bit of jetlag I made the most of getting up early to go for a quick spin to check out Shimla. This place seemed to be filled with joggers and people using the fitness equipment at 6am. I was fortunate that the first day's race started a little later as I possibly went a little too hard at breakfast, aiming to experience everything several times over.<br />
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The race started with a neutral roll from the hotel to the local courtyard where the race restarted with another neutral roll out of town to where the race really started. I managed to film a little of the roll through town.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2w9EwnKcxx4g5VTLV5sQjIk28hurbL6gWXL2MNrKpIryVQYhRrGh48yBgpmi3eFkZrMt0v-wHI1zpYmObWc3TLmzhqrqDx7LhjqIYjAS1TP1mkT2mIO2C9Iy7fdWlt5ORkwFzcOGFSNU/s1600/2016-09-25+13.22.11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2w9EwnKcxx4g5VTLV5sQjIk28hurbL6gWXL2MNrKpIryVQYhRrGh48yBgpmi3eFkZrMt0v-wHI1zpYmObWc3TLmzhqrqDx7LhjqIYjAS1TP1mkT2mIO2C9Iy7fdWlt5ORkwFzcOGFSNU/s320/2016-09-25+13.22.11.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bushes are sharper in India!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The first real race component started on some fairly technical trails that in sections required dismounting. It is here where I got excited at the prospect of a non-fireroad event!<br />
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After the first decent I had a little gap on the field. That is until Cory Wallace easily bridged across to me with Thomas Turner in pursuit. They swapped off turns as I struggled to hold on the back through this first section. Going down the next downhill I got another gap and played recovery as Cory and Thomas caught me back. I managed to cut my sidewall on one of the smoothest sections of fireroad. I'm blaming my sweaty glasses as the WTB tyres I am using have been great in all other conditions and the first part of the race had some good tyre destroying sections that I avoided.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhygKHF6kBLZYdEfqtkC_srPOr3JiIWSuVk3zkjVEHfkoXk_3e3lovvhpugDZsJe1ak-X9Isd0jYJ-PpKZBRMlfZuijYrPVepYyEKQTIZDpz8fhi0zZMHndLJ5NJyefioQweDuO_piq2KY/s1600/MTB-H-2016_Route-Profile_2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhygKHF6kBLZYdEfqtkC_srPOr3JiIWSuVk3zkjVEHfkoXk_3e3lovvhpugDZsJe1ak-X9Isd0jYJ-PpKZBRMlfZuijYrPVepYyEKQTIZDpz8fhi0zZMHndLJ5NJyefioQweDuO_piq2KY/s320/MTB-H-2016_Route-Profile_2.png" width="320" /></a><b>Day 2</b> - With a 1700vm decent I was pretty keen to have a good go at the second stage. After losing 5 mins on the first stage due to a flat I thought I might have a chance to make it up. Within the first 100m up the first climb I couldn't pedal. I felt weak and dropped off the back straight away. I ended up sitting in around 6-7th position until the top of the climb at the 30km mark where I managed to catch up to the chase group. I got to the front part way down the major decent and could see I had a 3-4 min gap as I started the second last climb at the 55km mark. This gap didn't seem to change much over the final 45km. The 57km feedzone wasn't setup when I rolled past which meant I had to conserve the fluid in my Camelbak for the remainder of the race!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYK9sd9Iqti1JU6whWof4g7M1NJL2v4jXr0F4p1NcUlW7s00WbOirzQC6DKpKEuTNI9T5aKdIKOLe4_PPPwQMIBqv28bvD77tJ0hwoSI8wUcMSEo066En3pgpZ-jG62QSe4EFy2tL8bwU/s1600/2016-09-26+14.31.09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYK9sd9Iqti1JU6whWof4g7M1NJL2v4jXr0F4p1NcUlW7s00WbOirzQC6DKpKEuTNI9T5aKdIKOLe4_PPPwQMIBqv28bvD77tJ0hwoSI8wUcMSEo066En3pgpZ-jG62QSe4EFy2tL8bwU/s320/2016-09-26+14.31.09.jpg" width="180" /></a><br />
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<b>Day 2</b> finished at a little school at Shwad which had a much needed river running through it! While the government schools provide lunch to the kids, the school canteen is still a popular destination. Today it was not only for the students!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimgwt2u1e6fw4SLwf7EcMdMa5tQ_q9jB5_uOc1XVdNdbLzR7vnN9bRUK3hMpettKi8AgrCKHLUkDYfed3a_g9epCeapxCGbPPW8XRFA-R1b8QeFfl0ZUxSR4prgNOAhpu3-Z4dywrVFGo/s1600/2016-09-26+13.34.24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimgwt2u1e6fw4SLwf7EcMdMa5tQ_q9jB5_uOc1XVdNdbLzR7vnN9bRUK3hMpettKi8AgrCKHLUkDYfed3a_g9epCeapxCGbPPW8XRFA-R1b8QeFfl0ZUxSR4prgNOAhpu3-Z4dywrVFGo/s320/2016-09-26+13.34.24.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cory enjoying the gluten free snacks!</td></tr>
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<b>Day 3</b> - Day 3 had the greatest amount of climbing of all the stages. 3000vm of climbing and reaching over 3000m above sea level. I started off feeling pretty good, then I got high. At an altitude of over 2000m I would start seriously puffing at a fairly low intensity. As the altitude climbed closer to 3000m I was getting light headed and felt like I had run out of glycogen!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1jZPAFS0KGUBUW841MZFtrPogCWBkdj-Q7dlIkJdW2eLx-4VsKcTmQFn_ZyNaVPG7P-f0MwbRLNqh2Ntb2AkZp6UQKQP65j80KvdJWB1sNt5q2WOEs8hLt7-TjZZ54zq7XGvJjt-HSt8/s1600/2016-09-27+08.52.35.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1jZPAFS0KGUBUW841MZFtrPogCWBkdj-Q7dlIkJdW2eLx-4VsKcTmQFn_ZyNaVPG7P-f0MwbRLNqh2Ntb2AkZp6UQKQP65j80KvdJWB1sNt5q2WOEs8hLt7-TjZZ54zq7XGvJjt-HSt8/s320/2016-09-27+08.52.35.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trying not to get chicked on the first climb</td></tr>
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The next 1200vm decent was a race against the cars, buses and trucks. The final climb seemed to go on longer than advertised but knowing the following day was a rest day was assurance it was ok to dig deep.<br />
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<b>Day 4</b> was a rest day. It seemed strange to have a rest day after only 3 days of racing. There were heaps of options for things to do. For me the morning started with a chance to see how the food was done at camp. At 10am we checked out a local school who put on a good show for us. In the afternoon I visited a local temple and managed to buy some souvenirs and of course fireworks!<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Buying the fireworks I felt a little uncomfortable as we were led to a backroom attached to a residence after making inquiries at the local shoe shop.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL1jCpGZ0qVUBfPWCFdlA6FZ4sjVrXRqi8pTss0xIKeIQqbqaXy7B2NLl6AoiIBIdNr1VquobcmdWvqZWIvS7aqmoxs4iBPcSB3I6JbAE3UAVCUgH32G_dtLuh3_DjIK-0bBVRqot7H14/s1600/MTB-H-2016_Route-Profile_4.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL1jCpGZ0qVUBfPWCFdlA6FZ4sjVrXRqi8pTss0xIKeIQqbqaXy7B2NLl6AoiIBIdNr1VquobcmdWvqZWIvS7aqmoxs4iBPcSB3I6JbAE3UAVCUgH32G_dtLuh3_DjIK-0bBVRqot7H14/s320/MTB-H-2016_Route-Profile_4.png" width="320" /></a><br />
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<b>Day 5</b> (race day 4)- Another day filled with climbing. Several mountain passes just under 3000m above sea level kept me gasping. I really developed a sense of deja vu on the second climb as it just seemed to go on forever. After another switchback was another that looked exactly the last one. On the 3km single track decent I did have a 'scared of heights' experience on the edge of a crazy 800vm+ cliff. The last climb had a good hike a bike section that had me gasping even at a very slow walking pace. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ32BAGjRSIeAtpzjn-zudUyadHySHErTMNcQo7gmYEvV2ZASjOU9XSFI6_EKQBvNG7zoApfHPjVgJG_VToK4VN5YNcYXIdX3icX-3mXue_5trEOZYPM0jjWdFqJzjoJdRHU0YTjY1oAE/s1600/2016-09-29+12.56.21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ32BAGjRSIeAtpzjn-zudUyadHySHErTMNcQo7gmYEvV2ZASjOU9XSFI6_EKQBvNG7zoApfHPjVgJG_VToK4VN5YNcYXIdX3icX-3mXue_5trEOZYPM0jjWdFqJzjoJdRHU0YTjY1oAE/s320/2016-09-29+12.56.21.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">A downhill finish is always a nice way to end a stage. It was still another few vm to decent to our campsite at the Bagshed School.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia-ToBHDMWYSEkIuzmpZ-FWTvq2zWrEFzIfn-taMchYRiZhtbef7gnW_ydqIdEr2esewTj5v95vdtEZ5bedmUgdH1aGuSGOqh0e3cikViu8Fn_Rkq-m09Y8JWrYPE5JwjdplqELTiGCqk/s1600/MTB-H-2016_Route-Profile_5.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia-ToBHDMWYSEkIuzmpZ-FWTvq2zWrEFzIfn-taMchYRiZhtbef7gnW_ydqIdEr2esewTj5v95vdtEZ5bedmUgdH1aGuSGOqh0e3cikViu8Fn_Rkq-m09Y8JWrYPE5JwjdplqELTiGCqk/s320/MTB-H-2016_Route-Profile_5.png" width="320" /></a><br />
<b>Day 6</b> - Day 5 was the first day that was raced mostly under 2000m above sea level. I managed to bridge across to Andy and Cory at the 30km mark after getting dropped early on during the first climb. Cory attacked on the 2nd climb at the 40km mark which caused Andy to ride past him and away from us both. I tried to encourage Cory to keep the pace high however, he dropped off my wheel on the second downhill at around 55km. I finished around 5 mins down on Andy and just over a minute ahead of Cory. The highlight of the day was catching the boys again and trying to negotiate with walkers / rotary hoe drivers through the residential areas.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe0JSzT-zGGv8muFXUjXyhr6FdzF8nDiNhN5YW6bna369bI0lPL9yYbRisb55JgQuKBftk7yF1zDucMsOnA4B3voMu4ekPLYZ38_UCsiUVBHSaJbPi3uOdEf7HvKW9bWZCvRSfU4ETpP8/s1600/2016-09-30+10.40.22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe0JSzT-zGGv8muFXUjXyhr6FdzF8nDiNhN5YW6bna369bI0lPL9yYbRisb55JgQuKBftk7yF1zDucMsOnA4B3voMu4ekPLYZ38_UCsiUVBHSaJbPi3uOdEf7HvKW9bWZCvRSfU4ETpP8/s320/2016-09-30+10.40.22.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This was the second climb of the day. I knew we wouldn't be riding together for long!</span><br />
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<b>Day 7</b> - was a 55km road race. After sitting in 6th up the first climb I bridged across to the chase group. I managed to sneak away on the last downhill however Cory, leading a charging group, easily bridged across in the last 10km. With Andy off the front I finished with the group.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Highlights for me were dodging monkeys, snakes, goats, sheep, cows, cars, buses and other vehicles. Seeing vultures and pulling off a massive save after overcooking a corner were also on the list!</span></span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc7qYlGTDA0afsYl6QEPwScQoOZ2GOeNouKr2vvokIv4y7cQt3hKFYN55elnId8iNbp_9v5cCE8zA4ddE0W-St09qG_uNmS2LDO2LTskQdXdWJXGltM-Q5vS4MPcieSnZi3fnTvdp1rZY/s1600/MTB-H-2016_Route-Profile_7.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc7qYlGTDA0afsYl6QEPwScQoOZ2GOeNouKr2vvokIv4y7cQt3hKFYN55elnId8iNbp_9v5cCE8zA4ddE0W-St09qG_uNmS2LDO2LTskQdXdWJXGltM-Q5vS4MPcieSnZi3fnTvdp1rZY/s320/MTB-H-2016_Route-Profile_7.png" width="320" /></a><b>Day 8</b> - <span style="font-family: inherit;">At the end of this stage I started feeling stronger and fitter. This could have been as most of the day was under 2000m above sea level! The 74km route ended up being 88km with a few unusual 'features' to keep things interesting. Two pack horse trains on a super narrow single track creating a forced 2 min break. There was no way past the animals, it was just a matter of getting out of their way and letting them past. The second climb started with an unrideable staircase of around 1km. At the top of this climb was a 1400vm downhill that had serious cliff edges. With no barriers it helped me keep the speeds sensible. Near the end of the race was an unrideable river run, which was almost 1km again of carrying bikes down a river. A race in India wouldn't be complete without a torrential downpour which seemed to wash away lots of the trail markings. I finished 2 mins down on Andy and 9 min ahead of Cory.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc7qYlGTDA0afsYl6QEPwScQoOZ2GOeNouKr2vvokIv4y7cQt3hKFYN55elnId8iNbp_9v5cCE8zA4ddE0W-St09qG_uNmS2LDO2LTskQdXdWJXGltM-Q5vS4MPcieSnZi3fnTvdp1rZY/s1600/MTB-H-2016_Route-Profile_7.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc7qYlGTDA0afsYl6QEPwScQoOZ2GOeNouKr2vvokIv4y7cQt3hKFYN55elnId8iNbp_9v5cCE8zA4ddE0W-St09qG_uNmS2LDO2LTskQdXdWJXGltM-Q5vS4MPcieSnZi3fnTvdp1rZY/s1600/MTB-H-2016_Route-Profile_7.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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<b>Day 9</b> - <span style="font-family: inherit;">As a last day it was decided to let the local Indian riders battle it out for the stage win and overall Indian rider. This meant for a more casual last day. I should have taken more pics of the hike a bike sections! Overall I finished 3rd on GC behind Andy and Cory.</span><br />
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Thomas decided that a goat that wanted to follow us needed a helping hand. I'm not sure he managed to grab it on the fly.<br />
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<b>Total costs:</b><br />
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For a 2 week holiday / tour this is a value packed trip.<br />
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From Australia, this is how cheap you could do it!<br />
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Entry - $1250 AUD<br />
Shots, meds and vaccines - $150<br />
Travel insurance - $150<br />
Flights - $1800 (which could be must cheaper depending on carrier)<br />
Bus transfers - $100<br />
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So for just over $3000 and two weeks of adventure / touring, this race is well worth doing.<br />
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<br />Jason Englishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02906214791366146934noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432475732998261764.post-68021983466276865402016-09-16T20:21:00.002+10:002016-09-16T20:23:20.198+10:002016 JetBlack 12hr<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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With a choice between contesting the XCM National Marathon Series over an action packed few weeks or the chance to represent Jetback, I chose to represent my most long term supporter at one of their main events. Jet Black Products have been looking after me for close to 10 years. The sponsorship started with NiteRider Lights and has progressed through pedals, Stans Wheels, Jet Black Products and Pivot Bikes. <br />
This year I look back with appreciation and attribute my past success to the support and help from Steph and Daryl from Shotz Nutrition and through the use of Continental Tyres. Starting through this year I have when possible made a switch to use products distributed through Jet Black Products. As a result I'm now using using their nutrition (GU) and tyres (WTB). To celebrate GU releasing a new product, I thought I would give it a go. And not just a little go, an exclusive go for the complete 12 hours. This was going to be a challenge as the <a href="https://guenergy.com/gu-stroopwafel/">Stroopwaffel</a> is designed more as a food product to quench hunger as opposed to a high GI liquid product deigned to rapidly absorb into the bloodstream to accommodate racing at a high intensity.<br />
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On the start line I had my pockets stuffed with individually wrapped Stoopwaffels. I wasn't sure how many of them I needed during the event. If I aimed to eat 60-70 grams per hour of carbohydrate I would need to be consuming around 3 per hour.<br />
From the start I tried to hang around the top 10 places as I worked fairly hard to get into a good position. During this time the track conditions were quite ordinary, there was lots of slip and slide and people over-cooking corners. I was impressed with Rocky Trail and how well they managed to maintain a good track for the whole 12 hours. As the race progressed there were different lines taped off to ensure all of the track was rideable and safe. During the first few laps I was swapping off glasses each lap due to the volume of mud spray, however, by my last few laps my Adidas photo chromatic glasses stayed clean! I was impressed with how well the WTB Nano tyres worked in the mud. They are light but also have a fairly open tread pattern to help clear the mud.<br />
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After a couple of laps I seemed to be lapping around the same pace as the leading two man team consisting of Mike Israel and Gary James. These guys provided some great pacing for me and encouraged me to stay fairly consistent with lap times. While I had to stop a few times to re-lube the chain and fill up drink bottles I was usually able to catch back up again. Around the 5 hour mark I managed to lap second place Sam Moffitt and as tempting as it was to back off the pace and ride with him I still tried to maintain my pace with the two man team. <br />
Lights were due on after 5pm. This stop for me was a casual stop to put lights on, lube the chain and restock Stroopwaffels. Giving the boys a two minute lead I thought I would have a little go at trying to catch back up. Around 7pm I decided to just play it safe and take a more casual approach to the rest of my race with the aim of trying to improve recovery time in order to start training again for India! <br />
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I would have to say I was quite impressed with the Stroopwaffel. The tally was only 18 for the 12 hours, so less than I thought. Normally I wouldn't be able to look at a food product that I consume exclusively for such a time however, I must confess I have had more than 1 Stroopwaffel this week when training!<br />
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I have thanked a few people through the report but a special thanks needs to go to:<br />
Jamie Vogele for driving me down from Newcastle to Sydney and back.<br />
Jason Moxham for letting us crash at his house and for passing bottles.<br />
Dave Groupe for passing bottles and organising the Stroopwafels at short notice (as per my usual).<br />
Rocky Trail Entertainment for putting on such a well run event.<br />
Jet Black Products for supporting me and this event.<br />
Thanks Outer Image for being out on the track taking awesome pictures!<br />
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<br />Jason Englishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02906214791366146934noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432475732998261764.post-65137423726633007172016-09-06T20:45:00.001+10:002016-09-06T20:47:22.848+10:002016 Wagga 6hr - Evocities Rd 4<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigXCtQ3HsQOH7Y6A_fcnJSyE0ofhYzyMC-O2KaWVWjae2ObgW54Yq8UXXmvJPoKmYzyAxfZdf8U5NkbP2UnNu6KaqD_Xw8MVLFUjWSlXK-HGWpGd1ySXiXxKUa0jzv3pYtSE6_3gKGVRw/s1600/14231975_1428709740478928_4424511219917824087_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigXCtQ3HsQOH7Y6A_fcnJSyE0ofhYzyMC-O2KaWVWjae2ObgW54Yq8UXXmvJPoKmYzyAxfZdf8U5NkbP2UnNu6KaqD_Xw8MVLFUjWSlXK-HGWpGd1ySXiXxKUa0jzv3pYtSE6_3gKGVRw/s320/14231975_1428709740478928_4424511219917824087_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pic - Dan's Facebook!</td></tr>
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With the ability to drop 2 rounds out of the Evocities 7, the Wagga 6hr became the most logical. With crazy logistics required to get to the race and back in time for work I had decided to instead focus on the closer rounds. That is until I made the commitment to race the MTB Himalaya (<a href="http://www.mtbhimalaya.com/">http://www.mtbhimalaya.com/</a>) which meant I couldn't do the Dubbo round. <br />
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Once the "we are on" announcement was made by the Wagga club I looked at booking flights. With a return trip costing over $800 I went for a cheaper option. A flight to Sydney (which was delayed 1.5hrs) followed by a 5hr drive. The return trip was never going to be an easy option!<br />
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Tucking into a warm room with a few other FIZO supported riders the sound of rain was obvious outside. I was glad I packed the wet weather gear. The standard being 2 sets of Adidas photochromatic glasses, a windproof / waterproof vest, open tyres (WCS Nano) and Weldtite all weather lube.<br />
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From the briefing it was obvious that bikes are riders were going to get punished. The track had been closed the last few days to ensure it had its best chance of holding up and detours were apparently already in place to avoid some of the really nasty sections.<br />
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From the start I wanted to stay with Ed Mcdonald who had managed to win the race for the past 4 years. He charged off the front with a team rider and started to build a little gap. It wasn't until the end of the second lap that I managed to catch him. It was then that he pointed out how poorly I was riding downhill. I tried to blame my lack of ability on my lack of vision through my mud caked glasses. I had planned on allowing him to lead me down the final decent on the next lap. That didn't happen as during the 3rd lap Ed managed to hit his pedal on a rock and dropped the chain. I didn't increase the pace any further however, Ed started to slow as his bike started to have some suspension issues. <br />
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Heading out onto the 4th lap I was just aiming to build my lead. I was trying to stop every few laps as the mud was getting ridiculous. Its really hard to describe the track. Initially there was a series of switchbacks up the first half of the main climb. These sections where sometimes rocky and dry while other sections were teeming with water that just sprayed everywhere. The second part of the climb was bone dry fireroad. The first downhill was mostly ok,<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_J7ryO3OJWniEgwlDqu8q3i_C8N2PRIOodO5m2EGVnyYOWSmRdJsxgq7jtjLV2QXPKl0pYnOBD1TOM1AnIi8DHZsz-rME4gkDcM_7SlFwLpX7FvZe_uSwD2fNuYs1s3dxhc0G-uhEAIs/s1600/IMG_5175.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_J7ryO3OJWniEgwlDqu8q3i_C8N2PRIOodO5m2EGVnyYOWSmRdJsxgq7jtjLV2QXPKl0pYnOBD1TOM1AnIi8DHZsz-rME4gkDcM_7SlFwLpX7FvZe_uSwD2fNuYs1s3dxhc0G-uhEAIs/s320/IMG_5175.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pic: MarathonMTB</td></tr>
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but all I remember from there is muddy dips, flowing water down both single and double tracks and an assortment of mud. It was quite ride-able if enough speed was carried however, the constant water spray was always going to play havoc on brake pads and drive trains. I cant blame the race organisors for running the event, after advertising it was going to be on, I guess they had to run it! But I think they also made a good call to cut the event short. There were plenty of things being done to stretch out the longevity of the course by re-routing sections however, some of the holes were becoming quite unpredictable and we were destroying the track. <br />
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A shorter race also gave me the chance to have a freezing cold shower before starting the long journey home. The return trip was the challenge and started with the 5hr drive to Campbelltown. From here it was a 1hr 15min train to central, a 6hr bus trip north that dropped me on the highway an easy 30min ride home. I finally crawled into bed at 4.30am Monday morning following a much warmer shower!<br />
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I really need to thank Pure Edge for supporting to attend the Evocities and Jason Moxham for being my driver from Sydney and fully tweaking my bike before this event. The new XTR chainring and correctly directed chain seem to have made the difference... Thanks Jason you really put yourself out for this one!<br />
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<br />Jason Englishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02906214791366146934noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432475732998261764.post-69472329377164400902016-08-13T22:14:00.001+10:002016-08-15T21:04:58.997+10:002016 Stans Notubes 5hr Tamworth Evocities Rd 3<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeueYKYExaiNKgH0nF-m1jXlL9wp_8CWEDWbbNzbwIMtqysbZnfhX0WVGt8v33O5MWIkQ6rPJmf90TkS7HOxcwRyyb7vNPXrRIGQCRxMPZ9oULzqI4gDjEuUYd0-WiGhIfUwZVx4AmuUY/s1600/13938213_10154427155237386_8119408957440003939_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeueYKYExaiNKgH0nF-m1jXlL9wp_8CWEDWbbNzbwIMtqysbZnfhX0WVGt8v33O5MWIkQ6rPJmf90TkS7HOxcwRyyb7vNPXrRIGQCRxMPZ9oULzqI4gDjEuUYd0-WiGhIfUwZVx4AmuUY/s320/13938213_10154427155237386_8119408957440003939_o.jpg" width="261" /></a>Being only a 3.5hr drive from home, it was great to not camp at Tamworth before the race. The trip started with Pure Edge and rice bubbles breakfast before the 3.5hr trip. With the temp still sitting around 5 deg Celsius when we arrived Sunday morning I was glad to see the temp hit double digits before the race started at 9.30am.<br />
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Looking at the start list I knew it was going to be a tough race. With Ed Mcdonald up from Canberra, Cam Ivory, Trenton Day and Andrew Lloyd up from Newcastle and local NRS rider Sam Spoke it was hard to make a prediction as to how the race would go. With Cam still training as if racing at the Olympic games, he was always going to be the favourite.<br />
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I managed to have a good start this race sliding into the first single track in 5th place. During the 1st lap Cam and Sam got a little lead and it wasn't until part way through the second lap that I managed to catch them again. At the end of this lap Cam put in a little attack and by the time I got past Sam, he had a pretty good lead. I was sitting around 30 second behind Cam for the next couple of laps.<br />
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On the 5th lap I caught back up to Cam. In the last 3 kms of this same lap my chain dropped 3 times even with a chain guide. I recalled hearing this meant the front chain ring was worn and after five 24hr races it is no real surprise. My new bike for 2016 had made it way to the event courtesy of Jason Moxham and Fizo Cycling however I hadn't planned on taking it for its first ride at this event. Starting my 6th lap on this brand new bike, the seat started to slip down. I managed to borrow Allen keys through the lap but it just wouldn't stay up. I swapped the seat post from my old bike and took some air out of the front forks as Ed caught back up.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLj2Hrpulbnxl4HB4DNwrU_oYn-kETR1apTgZ6eazIWIsc7d5QwGMyUWrDq-IL_c1sbKXNBcRf4q__mghq9cTLWX-Drh9ORI1_Ug5LhWtNp15aVydYZjS_roU8fd7yeqfxmrNIL-m88uk/s1600/13653117_1225107500856098_4059723476430211626_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLj2Hrpulbnxl4HB4DNwrU_oYn-kETR1apTgZ6eazIWIsc7d5QwGMyUWrDq-IL_c1sbKXNBcRf4q__mghq9cTLWX-Drh9ORI1_Ug5LhWtNp15aVydYZjS_roU8fd7yeqfxmrNIL-m88uk/s320/13653117_1225107500856098_4059723476430211626_o.jpg" width="238" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The new 2016 BOOSTED Mach 429SL</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Now being 4.5 mins down on first place it was really just a matter of keeping hold of the second position. Now without a Garmin or watch in view I continued the race. It took a few laps before I felt like I was racing as I learnt to ride the new bike. The new bike had riser bars and the stem was quite high compared to what I was used to. This meant learning to corner all over again!<br />
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I got laps splits for the next few laps and my gap went from 4.5mins to 3.5 to 2.5 to 2.0mins however I was pretty stoked to get within a minute of such a highly talented and in-form rider considering my lack of training and run related injuries!<br />
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Thanks to Jason for bringing my new bike. I look forward to getting to know it better. For a bike straight out of the box it rode great. The Boosted front end and new Stans Notubes wheels were great. I'm not sure if it was just psychological but the new Pivot Mach 429SL seemed to roll a lot faster :)<br />
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Thanks to Ian for also passing bottles and helping me change my race plate and bike mid event.<br />
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Thanks to Jet Black Products and Stand Notubes for supporting me and this event. The new bike was great and Notubes have really come up with something special with their new Valour wheelset.<br />
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Thanks to the other Jet Black Products that keep my bikes and body going, the WTB Nine Line and Nano both worked well on this course, I felt confident railing the corners. I can't actually pick the tyre I preferred. Jet Black are now also doing GU and their Roctane Gels helped me feel just as strong at the finish of the race as start.<br />
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A big thanks goes out to the Tamworth Mountain Bike Club. I really had a great day out. This type of course suits me, no really sustained climbs, lots of pinchy technical sections and heaps of fun whippy burms. I'm keen to come back again next year.<br /><br />Pure Edge are helping me attend the Evocities series and their pre-race food has been a great way to load up without feeling bloated.Jason Englishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02906214791366146934noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432475732998261764.post-351113343104945972016-07-19T07:01:00.000+10:002016-07-19T07:01:01.090+10:002016 Raferty's Coastal Run<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja8yunoVntEjYNGNxAqSRzqRCr4kCncZIW23ErDeQq98LasFNamEKrKtZtbKfvaWyfxzdqcPy8QEdcRVMKlwPXifRCkqzAey4Yajf5fn7bDNaJyw5QqItOqzBMNJc2I5K4oAr9lX1QkQ8/s1600/13700217_10210074223036071_4279182745194318155_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja8yunoVntEjYNGNxAqSRzqRCr4kCncZIW23ErDeQq98LasFNamEKrKtZtbKfvaWyfxzdqcPy8QEdcRVMKlwPXifRCkqzAey4Yajf5fn7bDNaJyw5QqItOqzBMNJc2I5K4oAr9lX1QkQ8/s320/13700217_10210074223036071_4279182745194318155_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span>I have always wondered how I would go as a runner. I have done 4 Parkruns and at each felt I have gone ok. I got roped into the Geoquest Adventure Race a few weeks ago and part of the training involved a few 5-10km runs. With these few runs and the adventure race, I felt if I could put together a few 20km runs then I would give the 35km trail run a go. I worked out I could run 20km in around 2 hours so when I lined up for the Raferty's self seeding start, I put myself in around 40th as I was aiming for a 3.5hr run.</span></div>
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<span>On the start line I was feeling a little under prepared. I had grabbed the smallest Camelbak I could find in my shed. This became a problem as the only storage was on the very back and I couldn't access the food I was carrying without stopping. It appears running Camelbaks have storage pockets on the front. This Camelbak also didn't have a chest strap so it jumped around as it pleased. The only GPS I own is my bike computer which I started and threw in the Camelbak as I couldn't get my smart watch working so went watch free.</span></div>
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<span>From the start I was just on a mission to catch up to Paul Perry who had convinced me to give running a go. There were quite a few single tracks early on which explained the wave starts. I had caught Paul after a few kms and I continued on the same pace as I felt pretty good. I was actually passing lots of people and was getting a sense of achievement with each person I ran past. Around the 10km mark after passing a photographer I was informed I was sitting in 4th place. At this point I knew I was probably going too hard however, I wasn't sure what pace I should have been aiming for. I had no idea how far I had run and as I couldn't see my heart rate I couldn't see how hard I was going.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyVE6A_bQaTZkbr9oVjl7onvCqhGmmpQCutZzpJOjpL0Mfgm2U5SZNUrQTBJnDpVoAKBP9gi1MDdeYZ8G6UPT6X-QzIBOS_p-xQOqHCce0YPx89_7bAXiocmrgIRFGiMinxhWfVVQ4QhA/s1600/13716142_10210074101113023_8384998480039482007_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyVE6A_bQaTZkbr9oVjl7onvCqhGmmpQCutZzpJOjpL0Mfgm2U5SZNUrQTBJnDpVoAKBP9gi1MDdeYZ8G6UPT6X-QzIBOS_p-xQOqHCce0YPx89_7bAXiocmrgIRFGiMinxhWfVVQ4QhA/s320/13716142_10210074101113023_8384998480039482007_n.jpg" width="208" /></a><span>From this point the course followed the beach and I could see the top 3 runners up ahead. I was going in with an aim for top 10 and sub 3.5hrs so I had no interest in going after them! I tried to sit in a comfortable pace and at this stage was feeling pretty good. At each check point I stopped to grab a stack of lollies. I honestly didn't consider that other people would also need them during the race however, getting my gel flask out often resulted in dropping my Camelbak or falling over!</span></div>
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<span>I possibly should have looked at the course profile or map because as I reached the turn around I became very confused. The marshals told me I just needed to run back the same way. I actually asked if they were sure about those instructions as I felt I had already run what felt like 30km. This is where I began to realise how tough this run was really going to be. </span></div>
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<span>Heading down to the long beach section (this time in the other direction) with around 12km to go I could see a few runners up the beach. I was still feeling good until the end of this section. At the checkpoint with 9km to go I knew I was in trouble. I took on heaps of lollies to avoid accessing my gel flask and began the last part of the run. This part now had the 20km runners also. Running past people this time didn't provide much of a boost, I was purely just trying to get home. With 3km to go I had run out of electrolyte and at the 2km checkpoint I stopped to take on water. The last 2kms were quite interesting. I started to feel quite sick and my breathing became super heavy. I put the sickness down to the ridiculous amount of lollies I took down at each check point but I couldn't understand the breathing. I had really backed the pace off, it felt like my heart rate had lowered however, I was still puffing my guts out. I can only put it down to the amount of pain I was starting to experience. Coming across the line I could barely hold my finishers bag as I almost fell into the cold lake for some serious recovery time.</span></div>
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<span>I have a new level of respect for the guys that can do an event like this and walk comfortably the next day. </span></div>
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<span>A big thanks to Jen for driving me to the race and looking after the kids.</span></div>
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<span>Maximum Adventure for putting on such a great event.</span></div>
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<span>Paul Perry and Michael Percival for the encouragement to give running a go.</span></div>
Jason Englishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02906214791366146934noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432475732998261764.post-84821012278458997452016-06-02T14:28:00.002+10:002016-06-02T14:28:31.478+10:002016 Port to Port Stage Race<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span>After doing the Cape to Cape in Western Australia and loving it, I was pretty excited to grab a Camelbak sponsored entry into the Port to Port which is run by the same company. The Port to Port is a 4 day stage race located around the Newcastle area which is less than a 3hr drive from home. With family offering a place to stay, my dad also entered himself into the Thursday and Friday stages.</span></div>
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<span>Day 1 - Port Stephens<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span>It was freezing on the the start line before day 1. With jackets being put on and off as riders waited for the course to be open it felt like winter had come. A ridiculously slow pace car seemed to be a bit of a common theme for the week. My thoughts of being cold quickly disappeared after this car left and I was dropped off the front group on the first sandy climb. This first day, while short, had quite a few challenging sections that I thought would have sorted out the field a little more. After the first sandy fireroad section, there was a 2km road section that allowed a group of 20-30 riders to form before the track turned bush again. The second part of the first day was mostly fireroad. This included a section called the three bears. There was talk about this trail being un-rideable and my legs were already fried before we hit the first one. I somehow managed to run myself up to the top few riders and by the end of the last piece of fireroad I had managed to hang onto the lead 4 riders. We swapped off where we could to try and make a little gap. With a surprise sprint before the final single track I managed to get in last and hold my 5th position to the line. While I wouldn't take my mountain bike to Port Stephens to re-ride the same trails, I think the course designed was a great challenge and worth putting in a stage race. I managed to grab some personal bests in this stage for sustaining such a high heart rate for such a long period of time.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm3iqr0YP8yzcI9r9yEKrploiI-6IrHttt400FOKTsDczLihFlJv64xAnawl5g1u7bsHb6LtAdYQOPfdSrUu3mQ5uCSeIYpjTYZ0FlgibYuBBKQOCV1xybXywfLU70borsDW4wO5JmtN0/s1600/mms_20160530_070427.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm3iqr0YP8yzcI9r9yEKrploiI-6IrHttt400FOKTsDczLihFlJv64xAnawl5g1u7bsHb6LtAdYQOPfdSrUu3mQ5uCSeIYpjTYZ0FlgibYuBBKQOCV1xybXywfLU70borsDW4wO5JmtN0/s320/mms_20160530_070427.jpg" width="320" /></a><span>I was pretty stoked to have Jason Moxham around after the first day for a quick bike service. The other guy that was great to find was Matt Russell from Pure Edge. Stage racing is all about recovering quickly to prepare the body for the next race. The best way to recover I have found is through liquid foods that are quickly absorbed. It's hard to pack a good meal to have ready at the end of a stage, but it is easy to pack some Pure Edge Superfood and Pure Native WPI.</span></div>
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<span>Day 2 - Pokolbin </span></div>
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<span>This was always going to be a tough day. The stage started with a gravel 400vm climb and it was game on once the lead car snuck away. I managed to hang onto the second group up the climb as I thought this bunch had enough firepower to have a chance at chasing the lead guys. Once up the first big climb there was a series of undulations as the road continued to mostly head up. As we approached the first single track, I moved into a good position only to have my chain sneak out around my chain guide. Once off, the chain put up a good fight before I could wrestle it back on. With 30 guys now past me into the single track, I had a bit of a task to catch up to the guys in front. The single track was surprisingly fun and "Down the rabbit hole" was challenging as not being able to see over the water bars made picking a speed fun. Luckily I managed to sneak past a couple of riders down this section of track including Chris Aiken and we swapped off for the rest of the stage.</span></div>
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<span>Day 3 - Awaba<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span>I was looking forward to this stage the most. Being the longest of them all at 65km, I was hoping my endurance would almost assist me against the short distance specialists that I was racing. After a long lead-out from the pace car the race started not far from the entrance to the Awaba MTB Park. I managed to hit top 10 leading into the first single track and was close to 5th wheel at the end of the single track as the big climb of the day started. With my front lockout still on I started the climb with Chris Aiken, Shaun Lewis, Rohin Adams and Marc Williams. We worked together across the top of the course through a variety of single track and open firetrails. With 10km to go I moved to the front and upped the pace to see if we could catch any riders ahead and to see how fresh the other guys were. After a few kms of going quite hard the noise of the other riders seemed to fade off. I just kept my head down until Tristan Ward who claimed to be in second, merged onto my path. Asking him if he went the wrong way I was left knowing one of us had. He reassured me that with Strava it would be easy to see how much time was lost or cut and things could be worked out later. I followed Tristan in and 5 minutes later the guys I had been riding with came across the line, just after a group of 10 riders came through that took a 10-15min short cut. Using Strava to calculate segment lengths, it could be seen the segment I took was 53 seconds long and the elite guys were doing the longer segment in under 4mins. The race organisors decided that instead of a 3min 7sec addition to my time, or instead of giving me the same time as the guys I was riding with earlier on, I should have a time penalty awarded as I apparently choose to take the shorter option! I was confident there was no signs to mark a corner. Anyway, by the looks of Strava Flyby it would seem I wasn't the only one who should have got a time penalty! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span>Day 4 - Cams Wharf</span></div>
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<span>I didn't really feel like starting the last day. I had the intension to try and race for top 5 on GC but now sitting in 7th with almost a 3 min gap on 6th I would have needed to find something special for the final day. With a shortish 50km day with neutral zones and cycle path it was going to be a fast and hard race. From the gun it was on. Kyle hit the first climb like it was a 5min race and didn't back the pace off. I quickly went from a 3 or 4th to just hanging onto top 10 as the steep early climbs smashed me. With a few technical ups and downs early on some of the elite riders were having offs and I was pretty keen to look after myself! By the neutral zone a top group of 6-7 guys had gained a 2 minute lead. As my group restarted the lead group rejoined us as they went exploring around the golf course. As we hit the cycle way the pace was usually around 40km/hr with some significant surges in pace. One of these must have occurred in the bottle drop as I didn't see the drink truck the whole race! While most of the elite guys were getting past bottles I had no water for quite a large part of the race. As the cramps started, I was passed a half bottle from a spectator as I started to catch up to 3rd and 4th. Heading up the last climb I had to let them go as the cramps were killing me, another bottle with 3km to go was a little too late but still needed to get home! I'm grateful to those guys for the bottles! Sneaking across the line I was in 5th on the day but with a time penalty, missed 5th on GC by 7 seconds!</span></div>
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<span>At the end of the day the Port to Port is a great race. I'm not a cheat and I'm upset that some people think I am. I'll aim to be back next year, hopefully with some climbing legs. I think I would hold back a little more on the first day to save my legs for the longer stages. Hopefully I can convince my dad to do the whole 4 stages next time!</span></div>
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<span>I have heaps of people to thank so I could do this race:</span></div>
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<span>Camelbak for the entry</span></div>
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<span>JetBlack and Pivot bikes for the Mach 428SL - It was great. After an adjustment of the front chain guide the XTR worked a treat.</span></div>
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<span>Shimano for supporting this event.</span></div>
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<span>All the Newy locals for yelling at me passing random bottles on the last day!</span></div>
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<span>Pure Edge for the recovery products each day.</span></div>
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<span>Paula Gresham for the lift out on day 3</span></div>
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<span>Jason Moxham for the service after day 1</span></div>
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<span>My Dad for coming out and having a race</span></div>
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<span>Jen's parents for helping with the kids (again!)</span></div>
Jason Englishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02906214791366146934noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432475732998261764.post-32336245750433990632016-05-14T07:34:00.001+10:002016-05-14T07:34:21.926+10:002016 Convict 100<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8ji5xAjMPKGiM7TlnWWzxDoexvyyN2tOWq4kF0lE9UJfR6wlqBGpemdswUNB9Q4Ym0rs6u2y7vV7a266zv0gDP7v29yQYRa07oCca5iEA7CHzwHVtZS4TOLKeKiADMznk9OuuW1_a8TM/s1600/_EMJ5052+copy+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8ji5xAjMPKGiM7TlnWWzxDoexvyyN2tOWq4kF0lE9UJfR6wlqBGpemdswUNB9Q4Ym0rs6u2y7vV7a266zv0gDP7v29yQYRa07oCca5iEA7CHzwHVtZS4TOLKeKiADMznk9OuuW1_a8TM/s400/_EMJ5052+copy+copy.jpg" width="400" /></a><span>I have been doing the Convict 100 for years. I still recall this as the first marathon event that I rode in the Elite Category. It was back in 2007 and as I picked up my first bike sponsorship deal with Dirtworks and BMC I thought I should ride in the event that they were sponsoring in Elite. This was an event where I still remember riding past the heroes of my day, Peran Delacor, Peter Hatton, Tim Bennet, Nick Both and I remember catching Craig Gordon heading down Shepard's Gully. I pulled a wheelie behind him on the canoe bridge (much narrower back then) and managed to hold his wheel for the next 5-6km before watching him ride away for the win. </span></div>
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<span>I recall making a deliberate decision in my first race in Elite to not just survive the race, but to have a go at staying with the lead riders for as long as possible. My race plan was the same this time around. I know I have holding back a little in marathons recently when the top guys ride off the front as I sit into my own comfortable pace. This time I was keen to see how I go and risk blowing up by going too hard. I also wanted to stay with a good size group as we hit the 5-6km tar section around 20km into the race. This seemed to work well and heading towards the "canoe bridge" there were around 7-8 riders still together. Tristan Ward was a couple of minutes in front of us at this stage. The next climb is where I really hurt. This is where I made the decision to give it everything and I had to. I was just able to hit the top on the wheel of Marci William and we eventually caught back up to Cory Wallace and Shaun Lewis. From the top of Shepard's Gully the track gets technical. For the first 30km the course was on well formed firetrails. From here, there was lots of drop, rocks and sandy lines to choose from. In our chase group of 5 I tried to stay on the front and push the pace to see if we could eventually catch Tristan. This happened just as the technical track opened back up to cleared firetrail. It was almost as if Tristan had been holding back a little as within 2km of catching him he attacked again up the next good climb. I went with him expecting the rest of the little chase group would follow. This wasn't the case and the 2 of us swapped off a little until the last drink station around 75km into the race. Tristan didn't grab his bottle and we kept the pace on. Tristan was pretty keen to race right to the the line and like the idea of a World Cup XCO rider vs WEMBO 24hour rider. I wasn't terrible optimistic of my sprinting ability and I was a little surprised when Tristan let me rider away with 20km to go. For some reason I felt the race would be all downhill from around this point and at times felt I had gone a little too hard on the time trial back into St Albans. </span></div>
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<span>This was the first time I have ridden the track in reverse and I really liked it. It is a good idea to mix up the tracks a little to keep things interesting. It does make tactics and strategies change!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFGxnPKO-1jrZsGJE9qAxTbClQPlem22Eb14DzyZLofBSU-66_ySxVsREQzhi5H4M-ZvNvsGLtkWFNr0A37E_6t2fRzJK8TxWvtWf34lNJeSzOL7wFt8AblEfshsZwjdwhEIU19gKqwb0/s1600/13082652_1020271018010460_3263192575583366157_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFGxnPKO-1jrZsGJE9qAxTbClQPlem22Eb14DzyZLofBSU-66_ySxVsREQzhi5H4M-ZvNvsGLtkWFNr0A37E_6t2fRzJK8TxWvtWf34lNJeSzOL7wFt8AblEfshsZwjdwhEIU19gKqwb0/s320/13082652_1020271018010460_3263192575583366157_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span>I need send a big thanks to Max Adventure for doing such a great job at putting this event on.</span></div>
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<span>Thanks Dan Baker and Elvio Fernandes for the lifts, Jamie for bringing my bike and tent and Way2Live for the awesome cake :)</span></div>
Jason Englishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02906214791366146934noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432475732998261764.post-36924503220953648612016-04-21T21:14:00.003+10:002016-04-21T21:14:36.922+10:002016 Evocities Round 1 - Bathurst<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My memories of last years Evocities round at Bathurst weren't very fond. A sleepless night due to some nasty water and freezing conditions were two things I was pretty keen to avoid. Luckily this time both things were avoided and I had a great trip. </div>
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My logistics were fun with a bit of a car and train trip to make the journey to Bathurst possible. On Saturday afternoon I had a quick Q & A with a few juniors and other keen riders before an easy lap. I showered at the amazing shared club facilities before participating in the $5 pasta feed. The Bathurst Club did a great job of creating a social atmosphere and being billeted out made me feel very welcome. </div>
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With a 9.30am start I got to sample the barista skills of my hosts before a casual ride out. While I thought 40mins would have been enough time to ride out, I was almost cutting it a little fine when my ride took almost one hour. </div>
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Looking at the other riders on the start line, I knew there was going to be a pretty solid battle. I was tipping Shaun Lewis to be the biggest threat beating me easily last year on the same track and finishing 5-6 minutes ahead of me a week earlier at the Marathon National Champs. </div>
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My plan was to try and stay with Shaun for as long as possible. I knew he would push me harder than I could maintain for the 6hr however, I didn't want to give him any lead on this track. The track was quite twisty and there weren't many place that it was worth putting in extra power. It was a track that was really easy to ride efficiently however, the more you pedaled, the more you had to brake.</div>
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The race started with a lap around the velodrome which allowed riders to sort positions before the mostly single track course began. The track surface was quite sandy and the rain during the early morning made conditions perfect. It didn't take long however, for the sun to dry the track again which had me cautious when cornering. I was quite enjoying the pace Shaun was setting however, I wasn't keen to hit all the downhills at the same speed he was. On two sections each lap he was able to make around 15-20 meters which at times seemed to take ages to catch up. Knowing I was working harder to play catch up I knew the end of the race would get interesting. I was sure I would have had the stronger legs at the end of 6hrs. A change of nutrition during the last 3 laps and with tired legs Shaun was easily able to ride away on the last lap.</div>
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I rode across the line not concerned at all with position as I felt I went pretty solid for the whole 6hrs and had completely emptied the tank!</div>
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A big thanks to Sam for the lift, the Porters for the B&B, Robbie from Drift Bikes for tweaking my bike, Duncan from DIY for the new ceramic bearings and Jason and Ian for passing bottles. </div>
Jason Englishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02906214791366146934noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432475732998261764.post-67452568798915886232016-04-12T20:38:00.001+10:002016-04-12T20:38:08.309+10:002016 xcm champs derby<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1qOJHI_QXhwKqTvLVqFdwCut1B7O-nQtxppHHdgXpKUqvjbHMPdEBaNLAccuGSvFz-ShOgI24HpiIM02pR8Pdq79BXdt-gvmLBby7cnK9SOh7xgB4g2khBeaIeXrqLUkDlN86JHwomXM/s1600/DSC_0004+23.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1qOJHI_QXhwKqTvLVqFdwCut1B7O-nQtxppHHdgXpKUqvjbHMPdEBaNLAccuGSvFz-ShOgI24HpiIM02pR8Pdq79BXdt-gvmLBby7cnK9SOh7xgB4g2khBeaIeXrqLUkDlN86JHwomXM/s320/DSC_0004+23.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span>I had originally dismissed the idea of being able to do the marathon champs this year as there were too many logistical issues to battle through. With Percival Property once again assisting with the costs, Sam and Thomas Vidler helping me with accommodation and Ed Mcdonald offering a car share, my final arrangements were all sorted Friday before a Saturday flight!</span></div>
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<span>My race prep wasn't ideal in the lead up week. Along with most of the other riders from the Otway 300 I managed to get the sniffles mid week and by Thursday and Friday I was struggling to crawl into work. I wasn't sure how I would pull up in time for the race but flights were booked and logistics sorted.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqh2cmN9r7MPYTH95OH0dLXWLG-LBF2Vb21jiI5qcGAvJjwl7Xdl9aL0N7BaCVgSlcEGo2Ijyabq6gWEJGtbr77e6EG0IEKJ6uoJsHiyHjayIji5oYnEQatKKELOnrjwJbPul6S1BVMJ4/s1600/DSC_0006+19.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqh2cmN9r7MPYTH95OH0dLXWLG-LBF2Vb21jiI5qcGAvJjwl7Xdl9aL0N7BaCVgSlcEGo2Ijyabq6gWEJGtbr77e6EG0IEKJ6uoJsHiyHjayIji5oYnEQatKKELOnrjwJbPul6S1BVMJ4/s320/DSC_0006+19.JPG" width="320" /></a><span>The trails at Derby in Tasmania are my favourites. I have ridden in quite a few places around the globe, but I rate them as the best. They are just well designed and, even in fairly wet conditions, hold up quite well. The downhill sections feel endless at times and I enjoy the multiple line options where it is worth checking out the fastest option. Even feeling crook, I was keen to have some fun on the trails and to also check out some properties for sale!</span></div>
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<span>After a lift to Sydney, a night in Dan Baker's room and a Uber to the airport I was on the way to Launceston. Here I met Ed and we made it to Derby in time for a bike build (at the mtb friendly Cascade Cottage) and a sweep lap. After this lap I actually returned back to the event village clean. This was a contrast to the athletes who raced early in the day during rainy conditions who were challenged just to stay upright in slippery conditions. This is true indication of well designed trails. Having trails that can be ridden after a few hours of the rain stopping is quite an important element when designing trails in Tasmania and a reflection of the quality work Glen Jacobs and his team produce.</span></div>
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<span>After a little rain during the night and patches of drizzle before the race start I was starting to question how challenging the downhill sections of this race would be. I was more concerned with the ability of my lungs to function as I completed a light warm up and mocked Ed for playing with his rear through axle as the race was about to start. As the whistle sounded the pace from the start felt manageable. As the 18km climb progressed my ventilation increased to a rate that was not proportional to my heart rate. My heart rate during the first climb was sitting in a comfortable 170-175bpm however, I couldn't puff any harder! I decided to take a conservative approach to the climb as I raced for the last position. Around the 8km mark I started to get a little deja vu as my gears stopped tracking correctly. I immediately started to fear a freehub coming loose however, I found it amusing that it was my rear through axle coming loose!</span></div>
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<span>Half way up the first climb I managed to move into top 20 and by the top I managed to sneak into the downhill single track within the top 15. As I didn't have very grippy tyres on the front and feeling like I was holding up a local gun rider I conceded a couple of positions down the hill as I tried to stay upright and took a safe approach to the race. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBLL1lDyVMEV215TejKjF5sDstziGUGkQrm_iY5LLNCgubDczB_9kecO3hk-tdxMPEV2vIKKx2vyRe3Pwl32hV-JuQl2IvBN23sVlic7nZooc0m4mBFaYJqDcXq3vKtaw5nCiu0O-H2oA/s1600/DSC_0002+23.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBLL1lDyVMEV215TejKjF5sDstziGUGkQrm_iY5LLNCgubDczB_9kecO3hk-tdxMPEV2vIKKx2vyRe3Pwl32hV-JuQl2IvBN23sVlic7nZooc0m4mBFaYJqDcXq3vKtaw5nCiu0O-H2oA/s320/DSC_0002+23.JPG" width="320" /></a><span>Around 1km from the start/finish I managed to wrap my chain and spent the best part of a minute trying to re-route the chain on a path that it should be on. Heading up the climb for the second lap the course follows single track for the first 5km. By the end of this section I had managed to catch back a couple more riders that had snuck away while I was playing mechanics. By the top of the climb this time I was sitting around 12-13th. I challenged myself to ride a little harder downhill this time and at times had to make a deliberate decision to hold back to ensure I stayed on the bike. The downhill was great fun. There were section of track that clogged up wheels front and back which meant the following few corners got very interesting. There were sections that were wet and rooty and if you weren't thinking right, would throw a rider off the track. But there were also sections of the same downhill that were loose, sandy and couldn't be hit too hard. Overall a wide range of trails which made things a whole lot of fun. I recall wishing I could ride these trails more as with practice the downhill run would be a great time saver. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">pic: Russ Baker</td></tr>
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<span>Heading out on my last lap I was sitting in 11th and I was pretty keen for a top 10. I started to feel really good and just aimed to try and negative split my last lap as I became more familiar with the single tracks and felt a lot more comfortable with my bike. By the top of the climb I had gone past 3 riders which I managed to hold off to the end to sneak an 8th position. I was pretty stoked to hit top ten without being 100% and actually felt I could have raced just as hard for a few more laps!</span></div>
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<span>I have heaps of people to thank for helping my weekend come together.</span></div>
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<span>Firstly Jen for once again staying at home to look after the kids, Justin for the lift to Sydney, Dan for giving me your room for Friday night, Ed for car sharing, Sam and Tom Vidler for a place to stay, Geoff and Dan for passing bottles, Percival Property for helping out with flights and JetBlack and Shimano Australia for keeping my Pivot running like new.</span></div>
Jason Englishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02906214791366146934noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432475732998261764.post-7766842699894214932016-04-04T21:04:00.000+10:002016-04-04T21:06:08.985+10:002016 Otway 300<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I haven't had the chance to ride around Forest for quite a few years so, with Norm and Jess Douglas putting on a race with a distance I am suited to, I jumped at the chance. Knowing that there was 6000vm and 300km to be covered I did some last minute cram training with a 17hr Everesting session the weekend before! With Shane Roberts as my partner for a 2 man race I was quite confident we would finish the race in a respectful time. Shane has raced to a high level in several 24hr events and has had further success in the Victorian 6hr series. Shane was also my pickup from the airport which occurred at 9.30 pm Friday night. With a 2hr drive to Forest for the race I was well and truly asleep by 1am after building my bike and getting bottles etc sorted for the following day.</div>
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Day 1 - 178km started at 7.15am as a light rain began to fall and most riders started in their compulsory rain jackets. The shivering on the start line didn't last long as the course soon headed upwards. At the first feed zone I was with another 3 teams. The group I was with made the most of the amazing feed zones and allowed the chasing group to catch back on. The typical feed zones were separated by 20-30km and had bags or bottles that could have been dropped at the start of the day. Even though most riders have their own products it seemed everyone felt compelled to try the various fruit, buns, sandwiches, bars, gels, lollies, pastries etc that were on offer. I'm pretty sure I wasn't quite burning off the amount of energy I was consuming!</div>
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During this same stage, there were times when a few teams would get off the front for a small period of time. After 50km there were still 8 or 9 teams riding together. Just before Apollo Bay one team managed to get a small gap however, with a few gun roadies in the mix a little bit of swapping turns at 45km/hr soon kept the group together. Just out from Apollo Bay I stopped to reattach a cleat and spent the next 30km with Shane riding harder than we wanted to catch back to the group. After having fun riding with a well paced group the fun stopped. At the 110km mark the boys started to wind up the pace on the climbs. I was getting a little bit excited and ready to race, but Shane wasn't up for matching it on the climbs so we had to watch the first 3 teams ride away. Once the gradient changed and we hit the rail trails I sat on the front and tried to keep the pace on, even with gates and going off course we averaged around 35km/hr before catching the 2nd and 3rd placed teams. We rode together back through Forest before the last climb split the 3 of us. Sitting in 4th with around 20km to go I turned the pace up on all the flats and downhills and we managed to eventually get a gap and hold onto 3rd place and gain a 4 minute buffer through the final 5km of single track before the last rail trail home. </div>
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Coming across the line I was pretty stoked with the sense of achievement from completing the day's ride. It was such an adventure to be riding at such a good pace being surrounded by quality riders and getting to check out a wide variety of trails. It was interesting to see the different riders abilities come out to play at different stages during this stage. Once I was told to move away from the finish line feed zone, Shane I headed straight to the Corner Store Cafe for a MTB Surprise Milkshake. These things are great and I highly recommend!</div>
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Day 2 started at 6.15am. The morning once again was quite chilly and I opted to start in the rain jacket again. It was much sooner during this stage that I took the jacket off as the climbing started early and there was no rain this time. There were sections of track that I'm sure I had ridden before as part of Otway marathons however, I generally wasn't sure what to expect. One of the things I learned early on was it was far more fun on the front downhill. The amount of dust that we were generating was at times crazy. There were occasions where I almost had to come to a complete stop to wait for the dust to clear when descending. This stage had quite a few really fun downhills. I am glad I packed the Mach 429SL as with the dually I could just let it go and enjoy the speed. At the 45km feed I made an effort to ride ahead of Shane to try and get him a bottle and get on the way ASAP. The plan was to gain a 20 second advantage where we could just take it easy for a couple of minutes until the boys caught up. This seemed to work OK from my perspective and we got a small rest window however, it seemed to upset at least one of the elite riders who couldn't find his bottle as quickly. He made me feel so bad I had the plan to ride ahead of him at the next feed, find his bottle and pass it to him. I don't plan on upsetting people when I race, I was just trying to buy some more time that we could stay with the top few guys. The next hill was the last time I saw top 3 teams. I wasn't really noticing the hill at the 55km mark however, Shane and a couple of other teams were. A group of 6 of us reached the top of the last significant climb at the 74km mark and we swapped turns until the last single track to try and achieve a good race time. Riding through the last single track we started to concede some more time to the group that we were with and with a final rail trail and hill sprint we managed to finish in 5th place for the day. Far enough behind the other riders that we moved back into 4th overall. Day 2 ended up being closer to 110km which was significantly shorter. While it didn't have the ocean views it had some really fun downhill fire trails.</div>
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The 2 man team event is a new thing for me. I haven't done anything like it before. It is a great way to share some memories but I can image some frustration occurring between unequally matched riders who have performance goals. I can highly recommend this event to anyone that wants a good challenge. It's not a technically demanding race as there was barely any single track. While there are some steepish descents, they are mostly fire road and can be ridden slowly. With the amazing feed zones and the option to have bag drops the logistics are really taken care of to ensure all riders have the opportunity to finish. Next year when I head back, it will either be with someone that is going to rip my legs off each day and provide me with a serious training weekend or I will pair up with my wife to just enjoy the journey. Either way, this event is such an adventure I would really like to come back again.</div>
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Thanks Norm and Jess for putting on such a great event. I really appreciate the opportunity to attend this event. <br />
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Thanks Shane for being a great team mate and working the logistics to make this all happen for me :)</div>
Jason Englishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02906214791366146934noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432475732998261764.post-70186598159424191002016-02-25T17:07:00.000+11:002016-02-27T20:09:49.569+11:002016 WEMBO 24 Hour Solo Mountain Bike World Championships<br />
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The WEMBO World Championships are run along side a pre-existing 24hr event. The 2016 event run by NDURO Events is usually the NZ Solo National Championships which also has a teams event. In 2015 I competed in this event as a solo to get a feel for the event center and some of the trails on offer. The Whakawara Mountain Bike Trails and Redwoods are amazing. I can see why people travel from all over the world to ride them. While not all the trails are on offer for the event organisor to use, the trails that did get chosen were great. There was lots of variety, from technical little pinchy climbs with wet roots, to super smooth fast flowy berms that could be hit at ridiculous speeds.</div>
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My preparation for the race could not have been better. Something new for me was a weights program that I was helped with through Port Macquarie's High Performance Centre. I worked on functional movement and technique from September to December before reducing the weights and laying down some good base kms over December and Christmas through the school holidays. Once school went back, the Jet Black 24hr 3 weeks out and Everesting 2 weeks before were valuable training sessions that helped keep the training volume high before enjoying a couple of recovery weeks.</div>
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I arrived in Rotorua Tuesday night just in time for a wet couple of laps on Wednesday which despite the amount of water around was still an enjoyable experience. Thursday started with a spa and mud treatment at the polyonesian spa followed by an exploration ride with my wife Jen on Thursday.</div>
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Thursday night I was involved with a Q & A evening with Sonya Looney which was a way to share some of my experience with other riders.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pic: Russ Baker</td></tr>
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Friday should have been an easy day but involved being out having happy snaps and filming which I under catered for on a carb loading day. This was well and truley adjusted for after a quick walk around Pak n Save for a race food shop.</div>
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I tried to work off Australian time during the lead up week so staying up to 11.30pm NZ time each night helped me sleep in to 7.30am each morning. This was a great start to race as it's not often I get over jet lag before a race. </div>
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With Jason Moxam (Fizo) setting up the pit zone early, Jen and I came out to the track around 11am. It was very muddy so we planned to feed in a neutral zone instead of out the front of our pit.</div>
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Riders were called up from 11.45am before a Maori War Dance was performed in front of riders. It almost felt a little close for comfort. </div>
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I had my helmet camera on for the first lap and had the plan to sit back a little and film the top few riders. The pace seemed far more sensible this year as I rode around with the leaders for the first lap. I found it quite entertaining that through wheel following on this same lap, I missed one of the key a line / b line sections and dropped back from a 4th to 10th position. Its worth a watch of my Youtube video to see the difference in time and the heart rate I had to maintain to catch back up to the lead.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pic: Russ Baker</td></tr>
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I really enjoyed this track as even though there was only 2km of fireroads, this was enough to give Cory Wallace and the other stronger riders a chance to get away while the single track rewarded a rider who was patient and could ride smoothly and efficiently. I found it interesting to watch my video and compare the speed I was doing through some of the technical downhills at the start to the last few laps as I worked out the fastest and smoothest lines.</div>
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When considering this course, I liked to break it down into three parts. The first 1/3 seemed quite flat and I thought of it as the family friendly section as it was smooth and not too technical. The second 1/3 included the climbs with some fire road and the remainder was twisty single track with steep pinchy sections. The last 1/3 seemed like the downhill to the finish that had some small nasty climbs thrown in to prevent an easy finish of the lap.<br />
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My race basically also had 3 parts. The 1st part I rode with Tobias Lestrell which lasted around 11-12 hours before he crashed and had to restart the lap with a broken handlebar. This part of the race was really testing my energy stores. In fact, during this first part of the race I only felt good until around 8-9pm when I just started to feel flat. I'm not sure what caused this to happen but I recall riding with Tobias and not being able to do a turn. I atually admitted to him I was busted and it was true, I could barely hold his wheel on the firetrails. Tobias also had exception technical skills through the single track so I wasn't able to take it easy on the downhills, I had to stay on the pace to keep with him. When he did crash I must confess I was a little relieved as this gave me a chance to sit up and recover. I could only recover until the 2nd part of my race started and yes I did stop and check if he was still alive after crashing off a bridge!</div>
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The 2nd part of my race began as Cory Wallace caught me a couple of laps after Tobias left me. I think I was doing a slow lap as my headlight had gone out and he was on a mission. We had a very interesting race. It seemed the 3 parts of the track really came to play here. Each lap I would try and get through transition faster than him so I could get a head start on the middle section of climbing. It felt like every second time we hit the middle section Cory would just ride away and I would have to just pedal where I could and take some risks through the 3rd section of track to try and catch him before transition. As the hours ticked by sort of riding together, the pace gradually seemed to get more intense. With 5 hours to go he joked that it was now a marathon sprint. With 3 hours to go I felt he was taking it a little easier through the last couple of final climbs and heading into the trail called Turkish Delight I though it was my turn to test what Cory and I had left. At the end of a 24 hour race I find it is impossible to tell how much you have left in the tank unless you need to empty it and this is exactly what I set out to do. I started calculating lap times and knew if I could do 2 sub 55min laps I could fource the race onto a 3rd lap which I was hoping would be in my favour. Coming thorugh tranistion it seemed like everyone was cheering for me, I almost become emotional with this support and the knowledge of how much more it was going to hurt!</div>
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I kept thinking through my last lap as I dug deep that lots of people have put themselves out for me. My family have really taken a back seat in the juggling act between work, family and training as on weekends I would sneak away to do big kms, a 24hr event or just everest for a whole day. I felt I really owed it to them and it served as a good motivator to keep pushing. I'm also at this stage where I am lacking sponsorship that supports my travel to events, so wining this race was my only ticket to Italy in 2017. I love Italy and I really want to be able to take my family there again.</div>
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As I went through transition and started to head out for another lap there was around 4 mins of race time which meant Cory could make it through also for another lap so I headed out. I tried to keep the pace on but I could tell I had already been going rediculously hard. 6-7km into the lap at the first marshall I recieved info that Cory didn't make it out for another lap so I could retire without needing to hit the hilly second stage of the lap. I could have gave the guy a serious man hug, I was so stoked to be able to stop!</div>
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Heading back down to transition I had some mixed feelings. I really felt for Tobias who if he didn't crash could have been the first rider across the line. Cory also has been on the podium at this event several times, this being his second time finishing behind me. I can just understand the disappointment of working so hard, coming so close and being the one to miss out, and it was almost me this time. Archie (my 4 year old son) has told me that next year I should give Cory a turn at winning...</div>
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My list of thanks goes pretty deep for the race:</div>
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Jens parents came across with us and the kids so that Jen (AKA the A Team) could be in support to give me the best chance. Jen has only missed 2 of my World Championship events and I really appreciate her support each lap during these events. Jen has allowed me the time to train and has been very supportive of my crazy rides that have helped me train so hard. Jen and Jason Moxham who also fed another couple of riders did an awesome job in the pits. They were super organised and I wish someone could have filmed our night transition! Jason not only helped out in the pits but also helped out with the logistics of bike transporting, pit setup, bike serivicng, sourcing parts etc. He has been a great support not only at this event but in events in the lead up. I am very grateful for the service he provides and I would recommend contacting him for a bike service if you are based in or travelling through Sydney.</div>
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Jennifer (AKA team masseur) also needs a big thanks for the massage post event. Thanks Jason for also organising this!</div>
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As mentioned before HPC (High Perforformance Centre) for the weights program</div>
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JetBlack Products - espcially Groupe for getting my shocks and forks service. Better than new performance! </div>
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Pivot bikes - The Mach 429 SL's are still firing like a new bikes 14 months on. These bikes are so smooth and fun to ride. I wouldn't take anything else over to Rotorua, except I would be interested in trying their Mach 6 Carbon!</div>
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Shimano Australia - Thanks guys for the new drive trains a enough spare brake pads to get us through the horrendous conditions that could have eventuated with all the rain. Thanks also for drivetrains to keep my training bike (CX) fresh so I can bust out some big kms.</div>
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Stans Notubes - The valor wheels are not only light and stiff put arre tough and can handle some serious use during a 24 hour</div>
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NiteRider Lights - I used the 2200 Pro and the 750 Minewt. I actually had them both running on the walk mode which is bright enough for me :)</div>
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Weldtite lubes - I rarely had to stop to re-lube chains which meant I could spend more time racing</div>
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Adidas Eyewear- I have been really enjoying their new photocrhromatic lense fitted in to an Evil Eye Pro Half Rim</div>
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Northwave Australia- The Extreme Tech Mtb shoes are light and comfortable</div>
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Mt Zoom - for lots of weight weenie bit and pieces especially their 710mm 8deg sweep bar. These seem to just work well for my lack of flexibility through my upper back and shoulders</div>
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Lazer Helmets Australia - the Z1 is such a light and comfortable helmet, I still rember the neck pain associated with heavy helmets during a 24hr race.</div>
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Kowalski Brother - These guys did some tag teaming to make sure I had a fresh pair of gloves for the event after I left my set at home. Well played guys and thanks Blake for being the delivery boy.</div>
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Thanks to Pure Edge for providing me with the protein powder required to recover quickly between training sessions.</div>
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Santini do make the most comfortable kit in the world. I have really appreciated their support and I am really hoping they can continue looking after me in 2016.</div>
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Dan Baker - Thanks for lending you Dad to do the airport pickup for us, how the heck are you supposed to travel with 2 kids, 2 car seats, port a cot, bikes, 7 bags etc</div>
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Tim and Belinda Farmer - for not only putting on the event but helping me out with some of the logistics of the race and for putting on a great show considering the amount of rain and issues out of their control.</div>
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Thanks to all the people that came along to the Q & A night - I might now seriously think about publishing a 'how to survive a 24hr mtb race' ebook</div>
Jason Englishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02906214791366146934noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432475732998261764.post-27072932818890219922016-02-18T06:57:00.001+11:002016-02-18T06:58:41.781+11:002016 Jetblack 24 Hour<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSldiLEURUhESEb2n2bflZ5dLUpq-oAz1EviNFbsmdmY8cBm_oJG2thff8ruyQ5eX-0mejQMNOEcAO3KNo2LfPGQds1CHRI9cNLvN4Sl3pfNSh0F1wwFOW-_ycdNBUzGlFtM6hw7Uh6OA/s1600/JE24hr15-5893.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSldiLEURUhESEb2n2bflZ5dLUpq-oAz1EviNFbsmdmY8cBm_oJG2thff8ruyQ5eX-0mejQMNOEcAO3KNo2LfPGQds1CHRI9cNLvN4Sl3pfNSh0F1wwFOW-_ycdNBUzGlFtM6hw7Uh6OA/s320/JE24hr15-5893.jpg" width="320" /></a>As a Jet Black Sponsored riders, this is one of the races I love to be at. It gives me a good chance to show off some of the bling products that Jet Black import whilst in a fun filled environment created by Rocky Trail Entertainment. </div>
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With the race being 4 weeks out from the WEMBO 24 Hour World Championships, it was also a chance to play around with a few different strategies. These included some different nutrition ideas (which included hot cross buns) and a change of glasses thanks to the new photcroatic evil eye glasses by Adidas.</div>
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I have used these glasses in the past but not with the new lenses. This was the first 24hr race that I have done without changing glasses at all!</div>
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I was fortune enough to have the day off before the event to travel down so I had the chance to run a few line selection clinics. I quite enjoyed the chance to help pick some lines however, I can see some real benefits in just having one on one or a much smaller group to assist individual riders to work on specific areas of weakness.</div>
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While I was doing my first lap things got a little crazy back at camp. Out in the bush it did start to get a little torrential but nothing compared to the cyclonic conditions back at the camp. It seemed anyone that had a tent up lost it. Tents were being blown everyone and there were now many people without a pit setup. Luckily Jason Moxham and they guys from Fizo managed to move vans to block wind and save the their tents so I still had somewhere to feed from!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif8S_IXgIAspp7jnlvo_q8FV5fMuvJXqNtYGnU5n6vSiYJeqHrEHrT-1LuiiUyCx2_2Q0nTegG62u_Qh38BM0Di-ogPKUKigWgMJJrS7mO4ipp9KNXH2nTOGgpZD51n1n5Gj_3_pvdgx4/s1600/JE24HR15-0572.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif8S_IXgIAspp7jnlvo_q8FV5fMuvJXqNtYGnU5n6vSiYJeqHrEHrT-1LuiiUyCx2_2Q0nTegG62u_Qh38BM0Di-ogPKUKigWgMJJrS7mO4ipp9KNXH2nTOGgpZD51n1n5Gj_3_pvdgx4/s320/JE24HR15-0572.jpg" width="320" /></a>The rain pelted down all night however, in the morning the sun was out and the ground look like it survive the volume of water. With cameras mounted it was time to start the race in quite warm conditions. Cory Wallace was here at the race for the 6 + 6 and with a couple of gun teams either doing the 6 + 6 or 24hr I knew the start would be fairly quick. I felt like I wasn't holding too much back at the start and watched quite a few riders ride away from me. Its great to look back at the video and watch as people charged off the front before blowing up and fading out of sight. </div>
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The track had be changed only slightly since previous events to include an additional km of double track which allowed for riders to get sorted before the single track started. Once in the single track there often wasn't easy places to pass so this was a much welcomed addition. I had thought I would try and stay with Cory but after a couple of minutes I knew this wouldn't be happening. That is until we got to lap 2. On lap 2 he seemed to settle down a little, mostly as he was starting to become aware of the 37 deg temperature. I don't really mind the heat and so I just tried to get into a comfortable rhythm and each lap looked to take more efficient lines. After doing my level 2 mtb coaching course, I have been inspired to lean further forward when cornering to help the front tyre grip and I was enjoying testing how hard I could push my tyres. </div>
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On the 5th and 6th lap, Cory started to take a more conservative approach and I ended up riding solo from around this point.</div>
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I really had fun doing this race, I guess as Sam Moffit was taking it easy on me it really took the pressure off so that I could just have fun. During the night I just threw on a helmet with lights already attached and strapped on my battery before taking off. It was interesting to go back and see my lap times as I took some very casual pit stop from time to time. During the night the thing that really stood out to me was my inability to stay awake. I was struggling. At one stage my support crew made me a coffee that was so strong it had the consistency of a paste. At least it worked! For breakfast I had time to smash 4 bowls of Crunchy Nut Cornflakes and a change to brush my teeth, what a luxury! </div>
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During the morning Cory was able to join me again for a few laps and we both took a more casual approach. This meant we could spent time riding with others and allowed for a great time on some pretty cool track. I' m just keen to come back again next year and have the same amount of fun all over again! </div>
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A big thanks once again to Rocky Trail Entertainment for putting on the event. Jet Black Products for sponsoring me and the event. Jason Moxham and the Fizo crew for passing me all sort of interesting nutrition options and Jen once again for looking after the kids.<br />
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** A big thanks to Gilbert Romane for the pics. He did a great job!</div>
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If you did want to see the vid of the first lap:</div>
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Jason Englishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02906214791366146934noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432475732998261764.post-40270409507080677062015-11-12T13:47:00.001+11:002015-11-12T16:24:53.295+11:00Bayview Blast National XCM Rd #7<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiIBuPr6Dw3jiZt_WaoalajhMdRrMwDIraB8SgmyNZ9-V4PFm6TmPE1t560NsNeEUjkBD7sQlKCuSCtVBo3TNLu1nj6qjLYn1oX0RV9SKcDcAzREJE8aLwmFyg12RTfq1ekx1ywO68GF0/s1600/bbjump.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiIBuPr6Dw3jiZt_WaoalajhMdRrMwDIraB8SgmyNZ9-V4PFm6TmPE1t560NsNeEUjkBD7sQlKCuSCtVBo3TNLu1nj6qjLYn1oX0RV9SKcDcAzREJE8aLwmFyg12RTfq1ekx1ywO68GF0/s320/bbjump.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM9-6KyAFT5ST23EYio1RIioZJTb6591Ju9ZWfuWKNsS0JuVu4NTAFumxq9UQjEfAZzAdy_lFnGaNWSpXSZk4aRwqhp0iNPwyrMLKRNsWk93UREBwOXIZDfjGKvqoGDQ7z7zG6iokA0xI/s1600/bb_corner2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM9-6KyAFT5ST23EYio1RIioZJTb6591Ju9ZWfuWKNsS0JuVu4NTAFumxq9UQjEfAZzAdy_lFnGaNWSpXSZk4aRwqhp0iNPwyrMLKRNsWk93UREBwOXIZDfjGKvqoGDQ7z7zG6iokA0xI/s320/bb_corner2.JPG" width="320" /></a>I was planning on winding down the amount of racing and time away after the World and National 24 Hour events. That was until a surprise 2nd place at the Kowaski earned me enough points in the series to potentially hit top 3 if I placed well at the Bayview Blast. I was already up in Coffs Harbour for HSC marking which meant only 4.5hrs further to the race. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglDckZYY3MRg3pAx4W6ZONeGyHp0BMze-ETsceup4_EBcJFGjEyDeBLth7iL2LArx0k6W3y9QIm5OjUaG_Bgmk5FG8pJJFvff3LwzHRMxBStG5ORdeCBF13VX4T3KZwb68abkbPMQuZ6g/s1600/bbstart.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglDckZYY3MRg3pAx4W6ZONeGyHp0BMze-ETsceup4_EBcJFGjEyDeBLth7iL2LArx0k6W3y9QIm5OjUaG_Bgmk5FG8pJJFvff3LwzHRMxBStG5ORdeCBF13VX4T3KZwb68abkbPMQuZ6g/s320/bbstart.JPG" width="320" /></a>My brother really promoted the area as some of his favourite trails to ride in the Brisbane area so I was really keen to see them myself. With a fairly warm day forecast, I made the most of hydrating well and used it as an excuse to add some extra salt to everything I ate on Saturday. </div>
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I had planed to ride the first lap with a camera on my helmet, but it just kept slipping so I left it trackside 5min into the race. From the start a group of 5 riders formed and we all seemed to take turns with the pace setting out the front. I had a little mechanical issues on the first lap which held me up a couple of minutes. I caught back up to the chase group consisting of the second to forth place riders by the end of the lap 1 before having the same issue to attend to at the start of lap 2. As I caught this same group of riders again, my seat decided to eject. I was pretty glad I had a multitool with me and was able to source the various puzzle pieces that jumped off in all directions. I'm surprised the seat wanted to leave me as I hadn't touched the position since California and since it has experienced at least 30 hours of racing! I found the task of putting the seat back on quite challenging. In a workshop the seat is hard enough to put back on but combined with sweat dripping everywhere and race high adrenaline, I had to just stop and calm down before I even attempted the procedure. With a seat back on, and possibly tighter than what it should be done up, I tried to crank up the pace a little. I was feeling great, I not sure if it was from a few big weeks of racing but I really started looking for places where I could put the power down. The course had so much single track that didn't require pedaling that when there was a chance I went for it. This seemed to work really well for me, and by the start of the last lap I had caught up from 15th place when I lost me seat to Eythan Kelly who was sitting in second. As I went past him I was still feeling pretty good until half way through the last lap. I had consumed both of my drink bottles and was starting to get some little twinges. I decided to back off the pace, increase the cadence when climbing and just looked to defend second place. I clearly didn't drink enough from the start. I should have been going 2 bottles of electrolyte each lap rather than just trying to play catchup on the last couple of laps.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0s7mUy622RCnWaLSL724niu-Zj7Du8oI2MxHY1NEvtqOB2dQNC-l3su8ARQLXf59Z88YNCCp0F3DW5Pjvfd9Ps-as05MU-SV61lO2AaI5h38DgogEal1lgWlDP7JdmBW6tKXTHBc1dbw/s1600/bbsalt.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0s7mUy622RCnWaLSL724niu-Zj7Du8oI2MxHY1NEvtqOB2dQNC-l3su8ARQLXf59Z88YNCCp0F3DW5Pjvfd9Ps-as05MU-SV61lO2AaI5h38DgogEal1lgWlDP7JdmBW6tKXTHBc1dbw/s320/bbsalt.JPG" width="213" /></a><br /></div>
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I really need to thank Mike Blewitt who managed to source a couple more bottle for me so I could run two each lap for the last two laps and Jamie Vogele who helped share the driving on the way up and back. Also thanks to my brother for letting us crash at his house and the local club for putting on such a cool event. I'll be subscribing to the club website to see if I can make it to future events. The trails have lots of variety that range from burmed up super fun sections, include high speed no brake flowy corners as well as tight twisty sections that have almost inspired me to cut my bars down!</div>
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Did I mention it was hot?<br />
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Thanks Russ Baker for the pics :)</div>
Jason Englishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02906214791366146934noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432475732998261764.post-16224971149088699242015-10-18T14:44:00.005+11:002015-10-22T08:50:01.692+11:002015 Australian National 24 Hour Championships - Stromlo, Canberra<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo: Russ Baker</td></tr>
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Arriving back into the country on Wednesday with limited sleep and smashed legs I wasn't sure how I would pull up for the National Champs. We drove straight to Canberra on the Wednesday evening and I snuck out for an easy 1.5hr spin to try and loosen the legs up. Thursday I towed one child in a bike trailer while the other was fastened to a kids seat on the back of the same bike as my parents, Jen and I made a partial attempt at looping the lake. Friday we tried again via the National Museum which was a successful mission. Only one swoop, where have all the magpies gone? My legs were feeling pretty busted by the time I tucked into bed on Friday night after a serious feed.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">photo: Russ Baker</span></td></tr>
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Saturday morning was quite low stress as we'd set up on Friday. By doing pre-rego, there wasn't a whole lot to sort before the start. Having Jason Moxam around once again was great as he and my parents were out early making sure the pits were to his high standard. All I had to worry about was strapping on a camera and gearing up for a race. </div>
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The start line was full of the usual talk down by all, including myself as I wasn't convinced I could actually ride another 24hr on still quite sore legs. From the go Tobias rode off the front and was left unchallenged. I'm not sure if this was just because he wasn't eligible for the Australian Jersey and other riders were holding back? I rode behind Ed McDonald for most of the first lap and I was surprised at the casual pace he was setting. It was comfortable and let Tobias have a good lead on the rest of the field.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">photo: Russ Baker</span></td></tr>
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The track was a pretty standard Stromlo loop. The climb is well hidden through the ABC Switchbacks and Slant 6. Skyline and the Luge are a great way to finish the lap. I really enjoyed this course choice and perhaps this is why I continued on in this race despite not feeling 100%. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">photo: Russ Baker</span></td></tr>
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The second lap I rode with Andrew Lloyd as Ed dropped off and we increased the pace slightly. A couple of laps later we caught back up with Tobias as he backed off the pace. I seemed to struggle with motivation around this point of race. I didn't feel fresh and my legs felt like they were pretty spent. I pretty much gave up on the race on three occasions, this was the first. Tobias started to play with flat tyres a few hours in so Andrew and I lapped around until around 8pm when I had to say good bye, this would be the second time I gave up. I wished Andrew all the best as I couldn't match his pace and I started to struggle with sleep deprivation. Around 10:30pm Tobias caught me and I tried to stay with him for a few laps as we caught back up to Andrew. Just after midnight I dropped of Tobias as I felt I just couldn't do it, and this was where I thought I had no chance of being competitive. I kept poking on however and as Andrew really wound it back a gear by 5am he was a lap down. Around 5am I also caught back up to Tobias. I was a little surprised to catch him however, my body is used to be up training just after 4am and so I felt fresh! It was amazing how I went from feeling rubbish to a sensation that I could really smash out some fast laps. I tried not to turn on the pace too much as I was just stoked to feel great and be in a position where I had taken the lead. I managed to get a lap up on Tobias around 10am and I finished an easy lap with him. He retired not long after. Ed caught me on my last lap as I was having a fairly easy one however, he was a lap down. I rode with him for the rest of the lap and coming through transition Ed needed to do a 33min lap to force me out for a final. I didn't take the gamble and rode 2-3km up the track where there is a clear view of the end of the lap to make sure he didn't sneak through for another lap! I was pretty stoked to win this race. I really needed the encouraging words that others gave me during my time out on course.</div>
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The main people I have to thank for this race are:</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">photo: Russ Baker</span></td></tr>
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Dave from G8 Performance for letting me borrow his tent again and for keeping my feet super comfy.</div>
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Jason Moxham for his support in the pits with Jen</div>
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My parents for helping Jen with kids in the pits and for my dad letting me use his Mach 429SL</div>
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My brother Ben for the much missed pizza run</div>
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JetBlack / Pivot / Niterider / Stans for putting together 2 fantastic bikes which worked flawlessly</div>
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Shimano for helping me with some XTR components which now includes pedals</div>
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Conti for the x-kings front and back</div>
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Adidas for an assortment of glasses for all conditions</div>
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Santini for such a comfy kit</div>
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Darryl from Shotz for looking after my nutrition</div>
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Mt Zoom for the super light and super comfy handlebars<br />
Pure Edge for the recovery edge between races!</div>
Lazer for two of the best Genesis helmets and Northwave Shoes<br />
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And a quick vid of the first lap</div>
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Jason Englishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02906214791366146934noreply@blogger.com0