Training Camp '09

Every winter the Euro-pro packs up his bicleta and treks to sunnier climes, usually along the Mediterranean coastline, in order to develop his all-important training-tan, stock up on black-market sherpa blood, and lay the foundation for a long, successful season. Fortunately, Team Wooly Mammoth resides in Central Texas, where cruel Lady Winter fears to tread, and rain is as foreign as a pair of downtube shifters in the peleton; so we don't have to travel nearly as far.

Loading up in the team RV provided by primary sponsor, Castle Hill Specialized Fitness, TWM traveled to a secluded cliff-side lodge for an extended weekend of riding, photo-shoots, and team-building arts and crafts exercises. As one rider accurately put it, "What happens at training camp, stays at training camp," so no specific details can be disclosed, but a couple of photos of the team in stunning new racing kits have been released by the team press agent.

Hill Training/Prize

Above is the bag I won at the 11th Annual Houston Winter Solstice Race. A little loud for my taste. Which is saying a lot, as my racing kit is white, light blue, gold, and hot pink. The bag is currently for sale.

This past weekend I decided to go out and shock the legs a little with some hills. I tackled Redbud, Courtyard, Jester, and Ladera Norte/Smokey Valley - as well as the rollers on 360. Nothing too major. The legs responded well. Next weekend I'll probably throw in a Bee Caves extension (River Hills and Lost Creek). And a long ride on Sunday.

I've also decreased my alcohol intake to two liters/day. Gotta be good for the race season.

Another day, another podium

Yesterday, a few select colleagues and I took part in the very traditional and romantic 11th annual Houston Winter Solstice Classic. Though unfamiliar with the local geography, we were able to use our extensive training at elevation and superior race tactics to put a man on the podium. I am very fortunate that I had good enough legs that day to be that man, but it would not have been possible without the beautiful work of my teammates (especially Bret). Proudly flying the colors of the Arctic Rainbow (Team Wooly Mammoth sponsored by Castle Hill Specialized Fitness), I stormed to a 3rd place finish, losing by the slimmest of margins to two of Houston's most powerful riders. I was almost disappointed for a moment when the race announcer handed me my prize (Ed. - ugliest. messenger bag. ever.), and I looked around only to realize no podium girls were to be found. But then I turned to face the wild cheers of the fans and the camera flashes of the tifosi, and I remembered why I race: the glory.