X Training Season

Even though cycling classes have started and I am in the regime of working out I am looking forward to getting some true Cross Training in. I have spent several years slowly getting my Alpine Touring gear together and got my first day last Saturday. Marty, and Marc played tour guide for Rob B. and I on the Healy Pass trail. This was a fun, no drop, go eat lunch day that proved to be just that and awesome.


Starting out in the Sunshine Parking lot. Ready to go. i made a rookie mistake and had my boots done up tight to avoid heel rub only to find out that causes really sore calves. Within 20 minutes it felt like 2 warring tribes of wood nymphs were have a bonfire contest in my boots. I told Marc this to a "ohhhh, ya loosen those up". Still the damage was done and I would spend the day and even up to 4 days later with sore abused calves. They work fine as long as they are moving but when I get up after sitting I sometimes fall over.

We made it up to one of the small frozen lakes and had lunch. It was the first day out for all but Marc so we turned around while we were still having fun. We had a quest join us for lunch, can you spot him??





Can't wait to get out again this weekend!!

Cross Season Winds Down

With the first snowfall here and our Alberta season over time to get back on the trainer and prepare for next year but some pictures first.

Cross is Fun

i have been desperately trying to get in Cross shape. I have been running hill repeats, setting up practice sessions, but there is no substitute for racing. With all the traveling I went into my first Cross race, The BK Memorial, then our own Beans and Barley. This last weekend was the Cross Madness in Red Deer. First race bad, Second race better, last race 4th!!!!

Here's how you get fourth in open Men:
-Sneak into Open Men category by being Elite MTB.
-work really hard to try to peak in 3 weeks
-what until National CX weekend and race local
-go to start line with 4 other guys
-finish

This is my best cross finish ever!!!!! Too bad the season is over as I am feeling like i could start to be more competitive in 2 more weeks. Ah but it is time for classes and base training.

Huffing and Puffing up the Stairs




The Kid Airborne




Cesar making his Move