San Diego Descenders Cycling Club

Not much of a ride report, but wanted to thank everyone that came out to ride to Tony’s house today. He really enjoyed the visit and we all had some good laughs, which were well-needed after the last month. We have already given Tony a PT regimen of driveway square transits, and instructed him to post all KOMs (King of Meandering) to Strava. There were also a few friendly bets placed on how soon Tony will be on the turbo trainer and the bike.

We got a few pictures with Tony, and had some delicious cookies and other sweets courtesy of Diane and Bridget (thanks!). Tony is up and about, but has limited stamina, so this was his rest break after a little bit.

After the visit, we went our separate ways. Hodges took his new cyclocross bike onto the dirt and managed to get lost. I did Tony and my usual Friday ride up to Jesmond Dene, across, and down Centre City Parkway. Always reassuring to get several PRs and still see that I’m 32/32 on the Descenders’ list of times. Oh well, I did only eat one cookie today.

You should have come.

Eric

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Five Ways Up Soledad Ride Report-21 May 2016

by Rob Verfurth

Riders: Bernie, Cresap, Guido, Proulx, Marisa, Jeff & Eileen, Oleg, John M, Hodges, Rob and Neil

Monster Climb trip training is in full swing. Oleg led us up the Five Faces of Soledad. We met Neil as we finished our first climb. Jeff, Eileen and Bob P had to bug out after the second climb up Country Club. We lost Cresap somewhere after the 3rd climb. The rest of us slogged through all the punishing ascents. By the time we got back to PQ, it was about 63 miles with 5,700 feet of elevation. Another beautiful day in San Diego for a group ride. Most Courageous Rider of the day was Marisa. She completed all 5 of the climbs up Soledad, a real trooper. Lots of good photos in the link below.

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6290219504809559889

Honey Springs and Tour of California Stage 1 Ride Report-15 May 2016

by Rob Verfurth

Riders: James W, Larry, Rob, Cresap, Denise, Proulx, Ernst, Guido, Neil, Oleg, Bernie, John M, Len, Eric & Lisa R, Tom and Tyson

We had a large group out for the ride up Lyons Valley and Honey Springs the day before the start of the Tour of California. The race itself was starting the next day down near Mission Beach and would climb up Honey Springs. We climbed up Lyons Valley first and regrouped at the Country Store. After the fast descent of Honey Springs, we turned around to climb up, just like the pros were going to do on Sunday; not sure who won KOM as I was sweeping. We regrouped again at the Country Store before heading to Japatul and the descent of Dehesa.

I pulled Bob P down most of Dehesa and we grouped up with Cresap, Bernie, Len and Guido near the Barona Casino. The six of us pulled hard and rode fast the final 5 miles on the way back to the start. We closed the gap on the lead group and finished together. Kudos to Denise who rode super strong all day. The ride was 60 miles and about 6,400 feet of climbing, good fun.

The next morning, Guido, John M and I met at the bike path to ride to the Stage 1 start. We picked up Neil at Torrey Pines, stopped at Bird Rock Coffee Shop and then rode to ski beach. After parking the bikes in a security corral, we walked around all the team vans seeing lots of the tour pros. We met up with Rick & Denise. Rick rode with Peter Sagan and his Tinkoff team on Saturday via a special invitation. Rick had a photo with Peter Sagan from the ride and got it autographed that morning; so cool. The teams were all introduced and the start was neat to see. Guido and I rode home via Miramar and Black Mountain Roads. We eventually drove to Oleg’s to watch the live telecast. Rick & Denise, Len and John M were there too. Hodges rode over through the canyons. We watched a great race, drank some of Oleg’s beer and some went down to see the peloton speed by only a few miles from Oleg’s house. Peter Sagan won the stage. Look forward to another stage of the Tour of California coming to San Diego next year. Photos from the two days of riding are in the link.

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6285503431689375137

Alpine Challenge Ride Report-30 April 2016

by Rob Verfurth

Riders: Hodges, Andrew, Ran, Marisa, Rob and Bernie

It was deja vu, all over again. I was ambivalent about the Alpine Challenge ride this year. The Descenders have ridden it most every year since 2004. I remember well the early days when all the guys would go down into Pine Valley while I cut it shorter since I did not think I could ride the extra 10 miles. I remember when I added the Pine Valley loop to my rides and also remember in 2013 when a number of us climbed up S2 to do the new 100 mile loop; we got back to the start and the only tee shirts left were XXL and S. I gave the small cotton t-shirt to my daughter; we did get our annual medals and a post ride lunch. I almost bagged out of signing up due to the long history of the rides and the fact that we ride there on some of our group rides anyway. Rick B sent out a reminder and the discount code, so I signed up. I was out of town leading up to the Saturday ride, checked the weather and wished that I had not signed up. Rick B fell near the end of BWR the weekend before so he was out anyway. I decided to go and hoped that the weather would hold.

In 2015 a group of us did the ride in weather that looked bad from the start. Voris had a mechanical on the Harbison Canyon descent. Guido went back to get his car to help Voris. Paul P, Bernie and I headed onward and then climbed up Dehesa. Bernie went out in front and completed the 100 mile loop in cold sleet and snow on the top of Mt Laguna–stud! Paul and I were soaked and freezing by the time we hit the SAG stop before the descent down into Pine Valley. We turned around and limped back to the start, barely finishing the 50 mile loop.

It was deja vu, all over again. The weather report said cloudy and cool. I took a chance and headed to meet the guys for the start of the ride. Bernie was out early as he was again planning on riding the Century. At the start a number of riders readied for the challenge ahead. I saw Hermann and Jeremy Schafer, along with their friend, Stephane. They ride with us infrequently, seem to have BMC sponsorship from Jeremy’s racing and were setting off on the 62 mile loop. From the Descenders, there was only Hodges, Andrew and Ran. Marisa was there with her fiance getting ready to ride, but I did not actually see her. I spotted Denise B’s friend, Amy, who was taking Denise’s registration.

We rolled into a light sprinkle. Hodges turned back to get something and I never saw him again. I rode with Hermann and his crew, along with Andrew and Ran. The weather got worse and we took it pretty cautiously down Harbison Canyon. We were soaked climbing up Dehesa. We stopped at most of the SAG stops to get a break from the lousy weather. Once again, we turned back at the SAG stop before the descent into Pine Valley. Mud was so thick at each SAG that my shoe cleats were clogged. I had to stop to clean them off and rode solo for most of the way back to the start into driving rain and headwinds.

At the finish we learned that there are no longer any T-shirts for the ride; we did get a medal and a fair tasting pasta lunch. Andrew, Ran and I ate lunch together before calling it quits for the day. It turned out that Marisa and her fiance skipped the ride all together and Amy rode a few miles before turning back. Hodges was out there somewhere and kudos to Bernie, hard-ass warrior again completed the 100 mile loop. Congrats to Bernie.

I decided I have had enough deja vu in Alpine. When I got home, I put my medal on the rack hook with the many other Alpine Challenge medals and vowed to be officially retired from the event. I only have two photos attached below. One at the start, just before the rains started and another at the end, just as the rains stopped.

Mussey Grade & Pamo Road Ride Report-23 April 2016

by Rob Verfurth

Riders: Paul, Oleg, Guido, Bob P, Andrew, Cresap, Rob, John M, Eric R, Bernie and Tony

It started out as a small group ride and ended with a terrible bike crash for Tony. We all hope Tony recovers quickly and look forward to having him back out on his bike.

Bob and I met at the corner of Black Mountain and the 56 bike path. On our way to Spring Meadow we spotted Guido and Paul coming up behind us. We all rolled into the Spring Meadow cup-de-sac to see if Hodges was peaking his head out. No Hodges, saving up for BWR. We pedalled onto the 7-11 store to meet the rest of the riders. After a group photo, we rolled out and picked up John and Eric R before climbing to SPP. At the start of the SPP climb we lost Paul and John almost immediately. At the top of SPP, we waited for a bit and then decided to roll on. Bob P left us at Poway Grade, heading back to get Tracey to celebrate her birthday. We split some on the climb around Mount Woodson. Eric R was just out to loosen up the legs before the BWR so he kepting going and turned onto Archie Moore to descend HVR. We still had Oleg, Andrew, Cresap, Guido and me as we flew along 67 and turned onto Mussey Grade. I was tired just trying to hold the wheel of Oleg so I stayed in back for the entire descent of Mussey. It was a beauty morning and the views over the reservior were great.

We rested at the bottom for a few minutes before Bernie showed up. Tony showed up a few minutes later. He had slept in a bit and climbed up HVR to meet us. As we all started the climb back up Mussey, John M finally caught up with us. The group climbed back to 67, went to Dye Road and sped along to get into Ramona. We took a short water break before heading out to Pamo. The last of the photos I took that day show the group cruising to Pamo. Things got quickly out of control. Just before the start of the descent Tony sped out front, followed by Bernie, Oleg and then me. The others came just behind. It was on the second of the two early turns where the Tony crash happened. I was maybe 10 seconds behind Tony and just as I was hitting the off camber turn I looked left to see Tony curled up against the rock wall. Bernie was yelling, "Biker down, all stop." I repeated his biker down call and slowed as quickly as I could without hitting Bernie & Oleg or getting hit from behind by Cresap who went just to my left side. We all finally stopped and turned back to get Tony. Bernie and Guido immediately jumped into the ditch to try to help Tony. Bernie was yelling at him to see if he was conscious. Oleg had his phone out, trying to get cell service to call 911. Andrew started to pedal back up Pamo to get cell serivce. Oleg was able to get through on his phone and asked for an ambulance to help Tony on Pamo Road. It appeared that Tony was going too fast for the curvy road and could not make the left/right turn combination on that tight corner. He rode off into the ditch and wall on the left side, but not before locking up his brakes from the skid marks we saw.

I got Tony’s bike from the ditch and found his cell phone in the rear pouch. Oleg called Patrick to give him what we knew of the fall and asked him to call his mom, Diane, to give her the update. Cresap climbed back up Pamo to escort the ambulance if needed. John, Andrew and I stayed out of the way while Bernie and Guido were tending to Tony. We could now hear him moaning, so at least he was no long unconscious. They supported him until the firetrucks came. There are two Ramona fire trucks and an ambulance. The EMT guys put a neck brace on Tony and strapped him to a backboard. The plan was to helicopter him to Palomar Hospital. I put his bike and helmet into the fire truck and we gave Tony’s phone to one of the EMT’s in case Diane needed to reach them. Needless to say, we felt terrible for Tony and were all in kind of a state of shock that our friend could get hurt so quickly.

I had Tony’s glasses and Garmin so I decided to ride down the Ramona Grade and go over to his house to be sure Diane had been reached by Patrick. By the time I got to Tony’s house, no one was home so I left his glasses and Garmin on the front porch. I was pretty sure Diane was at the hospital by now. I pootled home past Lake Hodges and through 4S. It was a 71 mile ride, but I did not feel anything, just numbness from seeing Tony.

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6277311398880524929

Diane has created a Caring Bridge web site for Tony to provide updates. He is still at Palomar in the ICU. We hope he recovers quickly and completely. Ride safe, I know I am going to use my brakes a bit more on the descents.

https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/tonyogorman

RSF, Del Dios & HVR Ride Report-16 April 2016

by Rob Verfurth

Riders: Guido, Ernst, Larry, Rick W, Tony, Andrew, Cresap and Rob

It had been a month since I was able to ride with the Descenders. My lack of health and travel had me away for a number of weekends. I was still able to find my new kit and get to the group meeting spot, a bit late as usual. At the start we had a small group of 8 riders ready to head towards RSF. I asked Larry about Oleg and he said that Oleg never rides anymore. Larry also mentioned that Neil reached out to see about riding, so Larry thought we might see Neil. We did later in the day, but not on our route. We rode as a group up CDS and made our way to San Dieguito Road. The pace was not too bad and a number of guys were complaining of tired legs. We hit the descnet of Three Witches and Rick W hit the front, as usual. Larry followed and the rest of us let gravity take us down the hill at a much more pedestrian pace. After a quick regroup along Apajo, we split again with Ernst and Andrew joining Rick and Larry climb up towards Stud Loop. They were kind enought to wait for us slugs and we all cruised along the nice cruves of Stud Loop, regrouping back at S6. Just as we started our descent down Del Dios we spotted Neil and Rick B climbing toward us. They were out for a last bit of BWR reconnaissance before the big event on Sunday, 24 April.

We headed down Del Dios and climbed back up past the Lake Hodges dam and over to Lake Drive. I was well in the back of everyone, cruising along with Guido. He was feeling tried and topped it off with a big flat just as we got to the corner of Lake Drive. He told me he was cutting the ride short, so I pedaled up to the guys waiting at the end of Lake Drive at the corner of Via Rancho Parkway. Ernst was not planning to hit HVR, so he went left towards Elfin Forest and Double Peak. We were down to 6 riders as we cruised over to the gas station by Lake Hodges. I knew I was feeling the effects of my lack of training so I got out in front of the guys to start the HVR climb, expecting them to catch me before Bandy. Unfortunately my hustle across the pedestrain bridge and along HVR got me to the foot of the climb when the guys flew by me. Rick and Larry quickly went ahead, followed by Andrew, Tony and Cresap. I settled into a slow rhythm up HVR; it was a long climb. After hitting the crest of the climb and starting the descent towards the school, I saw Tony and Andrew on the side of the road fixing a tire. I told them I was cutting across Archie Moore; no Mussey Grade for me. Creasp was climbing back up towards me so we rode together to get to Rick and Lary who had been patiently waiting. I turned onto Archie Moore and made by way towards Mount Woodson.

Andrew caught me before the descent of 67. The rest of the guys continued the route, not sure anyone did Mussey that day. We flew to Poway Grade and then sped toward Espola. Andrew continued along Poway Road while I stopped for water on Twin Peaks. I also made more stops at friends homes in Rancho Arbolitos, anything to give my legs a rest. I finally got home with only 55 miles and 4,300 feet of climbing. I saw most others rode longer: Tony-76 miles, Ersnt-62 miles and Larry at 79 miles. It felt good to be back on my bike. Attached are some photos from the ride.

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6274342776574338481

Hi All,

I thought the BWR route was similar to last year with the section to HVR going through 4S. I knew the planned route was to climb all the way up HVR. I had already seen lots of red arrows when I went down Ramona Grade and past Bandy Canyon on my way to Tony’s house yesterday. My plan was to ride to the top of Black Mountain Road to catch some riders.

Much to my chagrin, Carmel Valley Road did not show me any BWR riders. I pedaled over to the start of HVR, nothing. By then I suspected that the group would come across Mule Hill to get to the start of the HVR climb. I climbed up and then decided to descend Bandy, figuring I would do a reverse course meet the riders up in Ramona. On the descent of Bandy I spotted Jeff Southerton and Eileen Blasi riding toward me. I would have stopped but I planned my reverse course and knew I could not keep their fast pace anyway.

The climb up the Ramona Grade was fine but traffic was heavy; lots of cars buzzing by me. I went along West Haverford Road and then made by way toward Olive; this is the reverse route we took yesterday on our way to Pamo. I knew the leaders would be coming toward me fairly soon. I stopped at the SAG stop to confirm where the leaders were on the course, After a 10 minute wait I spotted the leaders crossing Highway 78 and coming towards the SAG. Logan Fielder was with a lead group of 6 riders. There were a couple of other small groups that came by before I decided to pedal towards the riders.

After crossing 78, a large pack was coming at me. I spotted Neil in this group. He was in the top 50 riders at the time, hope he continued to ride well. I rode to Montecito Road and looped around to get back to Main Street Ramona before taking Highway 78 to the top of HVR. About a mile from the the end of HVR I spotted Ernst in his group. My photo skills are crap but I took a picture, sorry about the blurred shot. At the corner of HVR and Archie Moore I stopped to eat and see if I could spot a few more Descenders. Nobody I knew came by but I got to cheer for many riders as they finished up the rest of HVR.

I finally pootled on along Archie Moore toward Mount Woodson Golf Club. As I neared the top of the climb past Mt Woodson I spotted a Descenders jersey riding towards me. I crossed the road to catch up with Dave Boyle. He was out on a solo ride of Mussey and then down HVR. Not sure if he saw others from the BWR event but it was good to see Dave out riding.

The rest of the ride home was slow and uneventful, just a pootle home. I got in 55 miles and took a handful of photos. Attached are a few and ones that include Logan, Neil and Ernst. I know I missed a number of other Descenders riding the BWR and the Wafer Ride. Great job out there today.

Rob

56 Bike Path Ride Report-26 March 2016

by Rob Verfurth

Riders: John, Farkas, Guido, Tony, Ernst & Sheehan

I pushed myself out of my chair after finishing the last of my mocha coffee, hobbled over to my car and drove out of my neighborhood. At the bike path I walked in my slippers, bathrobe and old scrubs, past the Nick Venuto Memorial to wait for the Descenders. I was still feeling the effects of my head cold, sinus infection and cough; no riding for me today. I thought about Nick for a few moments; hard to believe it has been almost 5 years since we lost him.

The group was meeting up at Black Mountain and heading to Soledad, so they should have come by about 8:10, at the latest. My plan was to take a photo while they flew by and shuffle my way back to the car and go home. I had to get Porter to her track meet, so this was a few minutes of down time before making her breakfast.

I saw the small group of Descenders come across the bridge and climb up towards me. A number of the guys stopped to say hi. I wished Dave Sheehan Happy 53rd Birthday, coming up on Tuesday. We usually try to get in a ride the weekend closest to our birthdays. I have attached a couple of photos from previous birthday weekend rides.

The boys looked great in their new Descenders kits. I took at group photo and wave good-bye to the guys, off to tackle Soledad. I hope to feel well enough to join in for the Sunday Recovery ride.

St Paddy’s Palomar Punishment Ride Report-12 March 2016

by Rob Verfurth

Riders: Larry, Andrew, Jim W, Len, Steve B, Todd, Quoc and Rob

The much anticipated Palomar ride was tempered a bit by rainy weather during the week leading up to the event, along with snow above 4,500 feet on Palomar Mountain. This was a great group ride last year, so I had high hopes for another good Descenders turn-out this year. Unfortunately, schedules and the weather deterred some from riding. We still had 8 Descenders out for the event. Personally I had been under the weather due to a head cold gained when my daughter brought home three friends from college for spring break. They had a great time and shared lots of college germs. In any case, I almost decided to stay in bed as well. I met Len at the shopping center near my house so we car pooled over to Stone Farms. This is an out of the way location near the top of Jesmond Dene Road. It is full of green gardens growing kale and other food for the Stone Brewery. The muddy road up to the start area opened a bit to a field of parking for us VIP’s–car-poolers. Len and I got our numbers and did final prep to ride. We caught up with the rest of the guys at the start line. All except Quoc. He does not have a Descenders kit yet, so I did not see him. It was chilly and likely not to get much warmer. I managed to take one photo of Larry, Jim and Len before we got to the start line. It was too cold and I was too sick to take more photos.

We were basically at the front of the ride when we headed out and descended Deer Springs, looping around to get back into Escondido. A small group of three riders blew by us on a mission. We caught up to them a few times at lights but they eventually headed off up the climb of Valley Center Road. The Descender group split on the climb with Larry, Jim, Todd and Andrew going out front. I was in no man’s land, riding alone, while Len and Steve B were sweeping. There were only about 350 total riders so we spread out quickly and kept our own pace. I pedaled along Woods Valley and descended past Rincon. The first SAG stop was just off the main road before the Taco Shop climb of Palomar. I was already feeling terrible so decided to hit the stop for a break. Andrew was there getting food. He was planning on riding the full Supreme Punishment route and go for his first century ride ever. I was weakly dreading the climb ahead and hoping I would make it to Mother’s.

I set out alone and started my climb at the Taco Shop. I could see the clouds thicken atop Palomar. The sun was shining but I knew what lay ahead. A few riders passed me, I was barely hitting 6-7 mph. At the Y, there was a sign up tent for the KOM. I gave a slight chuckle as I rolled slowly by and started up South Grade. My time on the first 5 mile section from the Taco shop was just under 45 minutes. According to Strava, most of my previous times were 35-36 minutes. It was slow going. I had not seen Len or Steve B, maybe I missed them when I stopped. I was hating the climb. After a few switchbacks, the temperatures were falling and the clouds above thickening even more. I knew every stoke up burned away what little enegery I had, Cole Grade was still on the plate. Soon I saw Jeff Cresap flying down from above. It only took me a moment to decide to u-turn and try chase down Jeff. We had done a SPP ride the Sunday previous to test out my new 30T cassette. Jeff told me he would likely ride up Wohlford and see us on Palomar. We stopped at the Y to warm up Jeff’s fingers. He had seen Len on the climb above us. It was very cold, snowy and foggy so Jeff turned back before the top as well. I convinced him to ride back to his car via Cole Grade so I hid on his wheel along highway 76. We stopped at the school before the climb and slowly made our way up Cole Grade.

At the top, we sped up until we hit Miller Road and turned to continue on the route. We eventually got back to Valley Center Road and rode to Lilac. I turned and he kept going straight to Escondido and his car. It was good to have Jeff escort me along, I was now 50 miles into the ride and ready to stop. A young rider named Pasqal blew by me on Lilac. He had a small bag on his back that he positioined at the top of Palomar with more clothes. He knows Rick B and does the Sunday Ramona Grade rides; no wonder he was riding so fast. I hit his wheel and hid for about a mile, buring a few more matches. There was the last SAG stop in the shopping center on the left so I stopped for another break. The route was to go down Lilac Road loop over to Circle R Drive, descending down to Old 395. I was spent and just took the shorter route to Old Castle Road, spitting out near the Gopher Canyon light. I still had the dreaded Old 395 south route to get back to the start. It was slow going but I made it back to Stone Farms about 12:15 pm, finishing with 67 miles and about 6,300 feet of climbing.

I had thought about going home with Cresap but Len was my ride home and all my stuff was in his locked car. I sat around the finish area, hoping the temperatures would rise and listened to some of the Irish Music that started soon after I got there. More riders were coming back from their various loops. Larry & Jim returned from their 88 mile adventure that included the Observatory out and back, lots of snow on top. Todd had to retreat home quickly so he must have climbed back up past Rincon to get back to the start instead of Cole Grade. Andrew was at Mother’s comtemplating the East Grade descent when Jim & Larry last saw him. I assumed Len, Steve B & Quoc were still out riding. Len eventiually rolled into the finish. He had a number of shoe cleat issues that caused him some delays. He did not stop from the start of his South Grade descent due to his shoe, a real trooper. I think Len rode about 80 miles. Andrew eventually got back well after we departed but he did finish the 100+ mile loop, great accomplishment for his first century. Quoc and Steve finished but I did not see them again. Len got me back to my car. I went home and went to bed. Great event under difficult weather and health circumstances. Hope to be strong enough to ride Montezuma this weekend, should be warmer; at least in Borrego Springs. The one photo I took is attached below.

HVR & Old Julian Highway Ride Report-27 February 2016

by Rob Verfurth

Riders: Larry, Bob P, Guido, Jim W, Cresap, Tony, Hodges, Bernie, Garet, Len and Rob

I was super late trying to meet Guido and Bob P at the top of Black Mountain Road so I had to jump in my car and drive to the PQ meeting spot. I told the guys to meet me down by Dove Canyon and parked in the elementary school in 4S. We rode over to the group at Pomerado and RB Roads. Group photo was taken and Hodges rolled in late. We took off for HVR as a group of 11 riders. It was a nice, sunny morning but not at all hot; perfect riding weather. The group spread out a bit on the HVR climb. I hung with Larry, Jim W, Bernie and Garet until we passed Bandy Canyon and started the second climbing section. I got in a few photos and then fell behind, maintaining a nice pace. I was alone, no one behind me and the guys rolling away from me up the hill. Some sections of HVR are so beautiful with the overhanging oak trees. I managed to take a few more photos before the steeper face by Eagles Crest. I rolled to the top and cruised over, past Mt Woodson School to meet the first guys at the usual corner. Less than a minute later the rest of the riders all rode up together, they had maintained a nice group pace up HVR.

The group got into its usual paceline on the top section of HVR. Garet and Larry traded spots on point as the group flew to Ramona. At the highway 67 light, Garet bailed out right to head back towards Poway. The rest of us went straight along Dye Road and over to San Vicente. The road construction is still bad on San Vicente Road heading east, while we turned by Ramona HS to head toward Old Julian Highway. I somehow got out front and started the climb to OJH with Jim, Bernie, Larry, Bob and Guido right on my wheel. We took the turn onto OJH and I took a few more photos before falling off the pace. Guido joined me while we saw the other four guys accelerate up the climbs. At the top we rested and waited for Tony, Hodges, Len and Cresap to join us. This is where the planned split took place. The insane guys: Tony, Bernie and Hodges took the turn onto Highway 78 toward Alpine. They rode to Dudley’s Bakery, over Mesa Grande, up East Grade of Mt Palomar, down South Grade and then up Cole Grade before riding through Escondido back toward home. This was a 110+ mile adventure for each of them, more than 10,000 feet of climbing…..INSANE! Great stuff guys, I will let Tony, Hodges or Bernie comment more on their all day experience.

The mere mortals headed back down OJH. We passed a group of riders close to the top as we started our descent. They turned and tried to ride down with us. Jim W was on point and I held onto his wheel as long as I could. There were more guys behind me and I was going about as fast as I wanted to on a bike in a group. Larry passed us and I let Guido and Cresap get in front too. One rider from the other group also managed to get in our little speedy group descent. The extra rider fell off on the flat section while the rest of us held Larry’s wheel as best we could. We flew down and I dropped off fifty feet or so on the last section. Just after the turn I was back on point as I did not stop like Larry, et al did to regroup. They all quickly caught me and we were all flying down towards Ramona. The group took the turn onto D Street and made for the break at the gas station. We needed water, food and a few moments to relax from that scary descent; at least I did.

The 7 riders continued on to Dye Road and back to Highway 67. The pace spread us out with most of the guys out in front of me and Cresap sweeping. I stopped at Mt Woodson to move some liquid to the ice in my other water bottle. The guys were waiting for me at the top of the turn past Mt Woodson. That was a mistake by them, althoughI appreciated the gesture. We rolled fast toward Poway Grade; I was instantly off the back and struggling to find some legs. I descended Poway Grade alone but caught views of the guys out in front of me. At Twin Peaks, I turned towards home and saw Bob, Guido and Jim W up ahead. I think Larry and Len rode straight onto Espola to get back to the start. Cresap was still sweeping and likely headed down SPP. My legs started to cramp and I could not keep up with the guys. In Rancho Arbolitos I turned towards the house of a college friend to get water. I stopped, filled my bottles up with his garden hose and got back on my bike. Legs were still not cooperating but I felt better after the short break. I only had a few miles to go on Camino del Norte to Bernardo Center Drive and over to the school in 4S.

I only rode 64 miles with about 4,000 feet of climbing; a pittance compared to the Palomar Boys. Great ride and good fun. Photos in the link below.

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6256140830060046209

RSF, Del Dios, HVR & Mussey Ride Report-13 February 2016

by Rob Verfurth

Riders: Jim W, Larry, Bob P, John M, Ernst, Hodges, Claus, Quoc, Guido, Len, Cresap, Rick B, Tony, Rick W, Bill W, Bernie, Sheehan, Garet, Rob, Eric R

This large Descenders group ride had even more riders on display with the new kit. We all looked great! In total there were 20 riders at the start or spotted along the way. Nice turnout for a nice morning of riding. The weather was a bit warmer than the previous week and skies clear, tough mid-February day in So Cal. Eric R was riding a retro steel bike, along with old shoes and gloves. He is training for a long ride in a few months where it is all retro equipment and gear. We started west on the 56 bike path and then headed to RSF via Three Witches. Sheehan flew down the first part of the hill and I was foolish enough to grab his wheel. Rick W pushed the pace at the start of the second descent and we flew along to El Apajo and over to Stud Loop. The pace was spirited but in control along Stud Loop with everyone regrouping at the corner of S6. Everyone except John M as he rode in his parallel universe, skipping Stud Loop and he was now out in front along Del Dios Highway.

The climb along Del Dios was pushed by Rick W, Bob P, Ernst and Bernie. I fell off the back in the last mile and then rode with Bob P along Lake Drive to regroup at the next corner. We saw Garet flying down Lake, doing a reverse ride. He continued on to go sweep up the rest of the guys. At the corner of Via Rancho Parkway we all regrouped and ate. Bill W had to head back to Escondido. He was about to end his US visit and return to the Land Down Under. Glad he was able to make it our for a few Descenders rides. Ernst was tired of climbing HVR so he also split from the group to head over to Elfin Forest and Double Peak to get extra elevation. The remainder of the group rode over to I-15. We lost Cresap, Bob P and Rick B at the big intersection of the highway as they all had to get home. The group rode to the gas station for a break.

Hodges led Quoc and Claus to Mule Hill for some dirt practice while the rest of us rode the Lake Hodges bike path to HVR. Garet had to get home so he continued down Pomerado. Our group was getting smaller, but there were still almost a dozen riders getting ready to climb HVR. Unfortunately there was a motorcycle accident near the flooded areas of HVR with multiple emergency vehicles blocking the road. We eventually were able to navigate through the mess, it looked look the rider was going to be fine. We started the HVR climb. Hodges and the Mule Hill gang were well out in front of us as they missed the accident hold-up. The group split up along the climb as we tried to pace ourselves. I stayed on Bernie’s wheel while he pushed hard through the first mile of the climb. I passed him and made the bad decision to try to close the gap on the much faster guys heading up past the Bandy Canyon turn. Larry, Rick W, Jim W and Eric were pulling out of sight. I spent too much of my reserves but got to the top only a few minutes behind those guys. I usually peel off on Archie Moore about this time and definitely should have as it turned out. Hodges went Archie Moore and John M was still in his own world riding somewhere.

Larry easily convinced me to head to Mussey. The group headed along the flat top sections of HVR. I took a few photos and fell off the back. The climb up HVR was my Waterloo, I had nothing left for Mussey. I suffered solo all the way to 67. Tony was at the corner getting ready to head back down HVR. I chased the group to Mussey but they were long gone. I descended solo, saw Len L coming back up the climb and regrouped with the guys at the San Vicente Reservoir overlook. My legs were gone so I headed out to get a head start on the climb. Guido joined me. We were quickly passed by Rick W, Larry, Bernie, Jim W and Eric as they pedaled away from us. We had left Sheehan, Claus and Quoc resting in the shade. Guido and I pootled slowly up Mussey, slowly along Highway 67 and down Poway Grade. At Twin Trails, I had to stop at the gas station; my legs hurt and I was out of water. Guido continued on towards home.

After a short break and re-hydrated, I felt better and picked it up a bit to get back to the 56 bike path. Just as I was crossing Black Mountain, I saw Jim W and Eric R–they had done the larger SPP loop and were heading home. I rode with Eric the mile or so down the bike path before turning off. He still had 10 more miles. Jim W climbed up Black Mountain. I got home with about 68 miles and 4,900 feet of climbing. Other guys rode more than 80 miles with Claus hitting his usual 100 mile Century ride. Great group ride. Below is a link to some photos–notice the new kits!

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6251385623871643681

De Luz Loop Ride Report-6 February 2016

by Rob Verfurth

Riders: Eric R, his friend, Tyson, Neil R, Andrew W, Tony O, Guido, Marisa, Bill Wood, John M, Bernie, Rob and Len

This was a new ride route for Decsender Group rides that Tony O created. Tony, Guido and I did the explore route the week before and moved the start to Gopher Canyon from Deer Springs. This shortened the loop a bit and removed a couple roads with high traffic. The group of 12 riders met in the parking area at the corner of Gopher Canyon and Old 395. A number of us were riding in our new Descenders kits. It was a sunny but cool start to the ride so the new arm warmers and light jacket added to the look of the new kits. We rolled north and quickly turned up Circle R Drive to climb towards Lilac. We did not make it a mile before Tyson flatted. Eric and Tyson fixed the tire. I stopped to give Eric some of the road markers to get them to Couser Canyon, knowing they would catch up soon. At the top of the climb, Bernie and Neil stopped to wait for Eric and Tyson. The rest of the group turned onto West Lilac and made our way past the Daisy Deli and started to climb Couser. The descent was nice and smooth. Near the bottom I spotted Neil coming up fast behind me. He flew down Couser, setting a PR in the process. The group reconvened at Highway 67.

We all made the turn to Rice Canyon and climbed up to the stop sign–a nice 5 mile climb. At the top, Neil decided to return back down Rice Canyon as he was on a tight schedule to meet his sons after a track meet. The rest of us rolled through Rainbow and descended down into Temecula. At Pechanga Parkway we made our first stop at the gas station to refill water bottles. Tony created a route that avoided the busy roads of Temecula and rode us through some side roads to get to the bottom of the Rancho California Road climb. Eric and Tyson were running short of time so they hammered up the 2 mile climb and kept riding. Andrew W, who was riding strong all day, he held the wheel of Eric and Tyson while the rest of us spread out along the climb. It was a clear day. Looking east you got a great view of the San Bernadino Mountains covered in snow (photo in link). The town of Temecula lay in the valley to the east as well. A friend of Andrew named Mike joined us on the climb. He lived in Temecula and was out for a ride. We all headed to the top and regrouped at the corner of Sandia Creek Drive. This is the descent Eric and Tyson took to get back towards Fallbrook. I hear there are some nice climbs on this road too. It is a shorter route to get back to the bottom of De Luz Road, we would get there a bit later in the ride.

There were 10 riders left, counting the addition of Mike. We all rode north along Rancho California Road. Up ahead in the distance were the San Gabriel Mountains covered in even more snow. Mount Baldy stood out on the right side. No photos but some great views of the mountains. We picked up De Luz Road and descended for most of the next 12 miles. The road surface is not always the best, but it is some great riding. Lots of large Oak trees overhanging the road in many places, producing a full canopy of coverage. The road went up and down in a few places. Due to the rains the previous week, there was some dirt spots across road sections and a few places with running water. I was very careful here and came to complete stops before going through the water, no falls for me. We spread out along De Luz Road, I was sweeping much of the time.

I finally passed Marisa, John, Mike and Bill before the final descent on De Luz. I pulled into the Santa Margarita Preserve at the corner of Sandia Creek to use the porta-potty. Mike pulled off too as he had to climb back up Sandia Creek Dr towards Temecula. We relaxed in the sunshine and watched the other riders begin the final climb into Fallbrook. I pedaled off while Mike made his way to Sandia. We all met up with Len at the corner in town. The route was to take us to a gas station for water before heading down Stage Coach Lane, past the high school to Olive Hill. The five of us were tired so Len proposed we head down Mission Road, straight to Bonsall and get back to Highway 76 a bit quicker. We called Tony and Bernie to try to relay our plans, left messages with both. I was out of water and took some needed refreshment from Len. At the bottom of Mission Road, I stopped in the grocery store to buy more drink. I saw Len, John, Marisa and Bill head over to Camino Del Rey while I drank the rest of my Gatorade and ate some food. I was feeling better and thought about climbing up West Lilac and looping back down Circle R, one of the route options. Since I had not gotten ahold of anyone, I pressed onto Camino Del Rey, the flatter and shorter return route. Guido was my ride home so I did not want to be out somewhere making him wait. My legs felt good as I sped along. My speed was slow so it must have just been a mind game, my body was tired. I got back to the parking lot about the time the others were getting off their bikes. We had ridden 62 miles and 5,400 feet of climbing. Laurie Wood was there to meet Bill. Everyone packed up and rolled away while I comtemplated when Guido might show if he did the extra 10 miles. I relaxed in the shade for only about 10 minutes before I saw Guido coming my way. He too had taken the shorter route. It was a good thing as his legs were feeling the effects of the ride. Tony, Bernie and Andrew were out riding the full 71 mile, 6,900 feet of climbing route. They would not get back for another hour according the the Fly-bys from Strava.

It was a fun De Luz route Tony created. We need to get out there again soon. Below is the link to the photos.

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6248774979915602913

Elfin Forest and Double Peak Ride Report-16 January 2016

by Rob Verfurth

Riders: Tony O, Bob P, Farkas, Guido, Wulfgang, Bernie, Rick W, Jim Wilkinson, Andrew Weil, Sheehan, Ernst, Rob, Marci (after Double Peak), Garet (climbing Double Peak); Oleg, Len & John M (all three in RSF)

If you just look at the rider list above, it looks like we had a huge group out riding on Saturday. We did have 12 riders at the start, picked up some along the way and had numerous Descender sightings out on the ride. Guido, Bob P and I met at the top of Black Mountain Road to spin over to the meeting location. We enjoyed the brisk start to the day and saw the warm clouds sinking in the valleys as we rolled to Pomerado Road. The ride today was Elfin Forest and Double Peak. Jim W was now back riding with us again. He brought along Andrew, who has ridden with us a few times in the past. Our special guest rider was Wulfgang, the son of Len Lochmiller. Wulfgang has ridden with us 1-2 times a few years ago when he was 9-10 years old. He is now 13 years old and can ride with the front of the group. The group stayed together over the Lake Hodges bridge where we passed a large. strung-out, group of runners in the "early" portion of a 50 mile trail run! And some folks think the Descenders are crazy?

We hit Via Rancho Parkway and headed west, turned onto Bernardo Road and looped over to Harmony Grove. The new neighborhoods along Harmony Grove are getting more built up, forcing us to take the detour to get back to Elfin Forest. I hit the gas for a mile and pulled along Sheehan, Rick W, Jim and Andrew. The rest of the guys were farther back. I had to ease up and let those guys hammer it. I waited for the rest of the riders and hung onto the back until we started to climb up towards San Elijo Hills. I fell way behind and was finally passed by Farkas, who had stopped for a nature break just past the Questhaven Road turn. I struggled to get to the small town center of San Elijo Hills and turn to the climb towards Double Peak. I saw Sheehan coming up the side road from Questhaven, all the other riders were well off in the distance. I slowly pedaled on with Sheehan a bit behind me. I passed by the turn to Double Peak before realizing it and did a U-turn to meet Sheehan as we started the Double Peak climb. It was a slog, but we both made it to the top where the rest of the guys had been waiting.

Ernst and Sheehan were heading home via Escondido so they were going left after the Double Peak descent. Jim W had already left the group down in the town center as he was on a tight time schedule for home. The rest of us flew down the hill in rather cool temperatures. We saw Garet climbing up Double Peak and we picked up Marci as we hit the town center. Marci was out riding after only a month since she had a hip replaced-wow. She looked like she never stopped riding, strong as usual. The group flew to Rancho Sante Fe Road and started our loop back. We hung together to El Camino Del Norte where I feel way behind. I told Guido to keep riding and not wait for me at Lago Lindo. I trudged up the climb and regrouped with everyone at Mimulus, just before Stud Loop. Tony had turned back onto Del Dios to head for home. We were still 9 riders strong and heading for Three Witches.

At the next corner we spotted Oleg, his friend, Len and John M, all out for their own small Descenders group ride. We spun quickly along El Apajo to get to the bottom of the Three Witches climb. Again, I told Guido to just pedal on, I knew how to get home. That was the last I saw of the rest of the riders. They hammered up to CDS and split different ways towards home. I cruised back by Westview HS and limped home with 51 miles and 4,350 feet of climbing; short but painful! Photos in the link below.

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6240960339970212465

SPP, Hwy 67, HVR, Bandy, Wohlford & Woods Valley Ride Report-9 January 2016

by Rob Verfurth

Riders: Tony O, Bryan J, Guido, Len, Rob, Sheehan, Rick W, Farkas, Bob P, Neil, Rick B, Hodges and guest rider, Marisa

After the great ride Tony created to start Descenders 2016 rides, the ride for 9 Jan was met with similar excitement. We had originally planned to do our Alpine loop. Tony started us at the same spot but had us head north to climb Wohlford. It was going to be a fun day in the saddle. Guido, Bryan, Bob P and I met up at the 56 bike path corner in PQ and pedaled over to Spring Meadow. We met up with Rick B, Len and Hodges before riding on Poway Road to the 7-11 store. We started with 12 riders, including our newest Descender, Marisa. Marisa just moved to our area from Santa Barbara. She reported that Gilbraltar Road has been recently repaved. Sounds like we need to go back up and climb that area again soon.

The group got strung out on the SPP climb. At the top we went north on 67. Bob P stayed back to wait for Hodges and Marisa. They planned to cut across at Archie Moore Road and meet us at the entrance to Sky Valley on HVR, by the elementary school. The rest of us rolled along Highway 67 until we got to HVR. We hammered the flat sections and got to Sky Valley. Bob was waiting for us. Mike and Marisa had carried on to descend HVR. We picked up Neil here as he had ridden up HVR after his sons dropped him off near I-15. Our group of 10 riders only made it through the first few turns of Sky Valley before Bryan hit an arowhead rock and sliced his tire. Bryan demonstrated why he spends most of his time riding MTB bikes tubeless as he and Sheehan played with his rear tire to get it patched and change out the tube. He blew his spare tube due to a pinch change so we got to do it all over again. Tubes and CO2 canisters were everywhere.

We finally pedaled on, not sure if we would ever catch Mike and Marisa. Rick B and Neil kept busy during all the mechincal fun by riding back and forth on Sky Valley. We got to the gate out of Sky Valley and back onto HVR. Rick B had to work at the bike shop so he turned back for home. The rest of us descended HVR, turned on Bandy Canyon and sped to Highway 78. Rick W and Bob P hammered off the front. Most of the rest of us tried in vain to close the gap. Sheehan took a nature break at the corner of Bandy and HVR so he was well behind. We all eventually regrouped at Highway 78 and turned towards the Wild Animal Park. I have lived here and long time and like the old park name, besides I cannot remember what it is called today. After Ysabel Creek Road we took the slight left turn onto Old Milky Way Road, taking it to the end and turning to climb Summit Road. Apparently Mike and Marisa were just ahead of us based on the fly-by review but we never did see them again. Rick W led the group up Summit. We cruised across to Highway 78 where the group split.

Rick W, Farkas, Bob P and Neil headed west on 78 while the rest of us rode towards Lake Wohlford. I think some of these riders finally saw Mike and Marissa near Lake Hodges on their way home. At the end of Citrus, Sheehan bailed so we were down to 5 riders as we approached Lake Wohlford. I was feeling good so I pushed the pace a bit and opened up a gap to the other guys. Guido, Bryan, Tony and Len stayed in a nice line to the top. We regrouped at the bathroom before riding to Woods Valley. We kept up a nice controlled pace on this usual sprintfest section and turned left onto Valley Center Road to head back into Escondido. Tony planned for us to reverse course back along Citrus and then Summit Road. We were getting tired and knew we had many miles to go so we just headed south back to the mall along Bear Parkway. Tony bailed out for home, we were down to 4 riders. We all stopped for snacks and drinks at the gas station before riding over the Lake Hodges pedestrian bridge. Len turned down Pomerado while Bryan, Guido and I rode on West Bernardo Road towards 4S.

The three of us kept a nice pace going all the way back to PQ where we split off near Ovideo for our respective neighborhoods. I got back with 80 miles of riding, 5,500 feet of climbing and 5 hours in the saddle. Tony is going to get me in shape if he keeps up these Saturday routes all year! It was another fun Descenders ride. The link below shows some of the photos from the ride.

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6238371343948516945

Oceanside, Sleeping Indian & Deer Springs Ride Report-2 Jan 2016

by Rob Verfurth

Riders: Geoff, Tony O, Hodges, Larry, Claus, Len, Rob, Bob P and Dave Sheehan

It was our first planned group ride for the year. Tony O’ Gorman has taken the reins of the ride route committee and has promised to "spice" things up for our Saturday group rides. I have long been a fan of doing more rides outside our local market but know that travel times and family schedules make it challenging to always get in a car to go ride a bike. Tony is taking a different approach. He plans to mix up routes and combine great roads with portions of our old stand-by routes. The Saturday ride was just the start of the new adventures he has planned. Yes, Oleg took us on Sleeping Indian last year so some of us have gone from Oceanside to Fallbrook. Tony just added on to get us back to Escondido. Enjoy the ride….

We met up at the corner of Black Mountain and the 56 bike path. After riding toward the coast, we picked up Larry and Len along Carmel Valley Road. The pace was civilized with Larry and Geoff on point most of the time. There were lots of riders out on PCH, must have been all the New Years Resolutions! We motored north, past Swami’s, along Neptune and to La Costa Ave. This is where Sheehan and Bob turned inland while the rest of us continued onto Oceanside. There were a few miles of good hammering leading into Carlsbad, we all stayed together and cruised toward the harbor. It got busier as we neared the Oceanside Pier, more cars than desired and some in a big hurry to pass us. I saw an opportunity to sneak away in the confusion of cars and riders stopping along the congested streets by the pier. I wanted to fulfill one of my New Year Resolutions–win the sprint to the harbor.

Ok, is was a smaller group and they all basically gave me the lead-out; but I did not know it then. I hammered north across the bridge, turned right at the start of the harbor and pushed hard toward the final loop. I snuck one peek behind when I passed the bathrooms and saw there was no one coming so I backed off a bit. I call it a moral victory. I have tried to sneak away a number of times leading to the all out sprint for the harbor loop to always get passed, sometimes in the last section. Today, I rolled into the loop first-one New Year resolution done. Geoff and Hodges came along after I did the turn around, followed by Tony and Claus. Len and Larry stopped at the bathroom on the way to the harbor loop. Small win, but victory nonetheless.

We regrouped and headed back south, crossed the bridge and took the left turn onto the San Luis Rey River Trail. Larry, followed by Geoff and then Mike, pulled the group along the river trail at a consistent pace that kept us flying along but where we were all able to hang together in a nice seven-man pace line. This is a great trail, but it is not that wide as we passed everyone going our same direction and had to keep tabs on bikes, walkers and a few runners coming at us. Most of us know this trail from BWR events and the Pedal the Cause ride. It cuts east all the way past College Ave in San Marcos. We exited just before that to get onto N. River Road. This took us to Sleeping Indian Road where the climbing fun began.

This is a great 10 mile loop that climbs steadily up Sleeping Indian before cutting east onto Morro Hills Road, then a nice descent down Olive Hill Road. We could take Sleeping Indian up another mile to Burma Road and take the full length of Olive Hill, maybe next time. This area is near the old Avenue of the Oaks ride, great big oak trees cover the road as it curves down toward Bonsall and cross Highway 76. We were now close to our descent on West Lilac as we normally ride on Camino del Rey back to Old 395. I led the way on Old River Road and did my only real pull of the day. We went through the neighborhood with all the speed bumps and then turned onto Little Gopher Canyon Road. This is a road we have done from the other direction previously. It is also a nice, tree-lined curvy road. Larry led us to Gopher Canyon Road.

After turning left, we faced a two mile section of road that is fairly busy until we turned south onto Twin Oaks Valley Road. This is a route taken from a previous Skive Ride. It is a nice ascent up and then down a narrow road to get to Deer Springs Road. Geoff B flatted just before the light so Hodges and Tony stayed with Geoff. Claus was late and lost, needing to get home, so Larry, Len and I turned onto Deer Springs and climbed up and over I-15 to get back to Old 395. Claus now knew where he was and we decided to skip the Jesmond Dene descent to just ride all the way into Escondido on Centre City Parkway. After getting through the mall we split up at the gas station. Larry & Len stopped for food and drink while Claus and I headed for the Lake Hodges Pedestrian Bridge. Claus went left on Pomeerado while I rode towards 4S. Larry and Len should have caught me but I saw on the fly-bys that they headed farther to the west in 4S while I went behind Black Mountain to home. I rolled in with tired legs and 86 miles, 4,000 feet of climbing. Others topped the century mark: Claus and Hodges, with Larry hitting 95+ miles before he got home. It was a great ride and great start to our Descenders rides for 2016. Below is a link to some photos.

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6235698985057901537

Hi Guys,

I need to clean up the backlog of ride reports from 2015 before the new year hits. Below are brief summaries of a number of fun rides, along with a link for the pictures. Tony has the us lined up for a fun ride on Sat to kick off 2016 in style. Hope to see you all out for the ride.

Julian Fall Ride-31 October 2015

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6212405325605359201

Riders: Oleg, John M, Voris, Jeff L, Len, Larry, Rob, Guido, Richard, Bernie, Neil, Tony O and a guest-Justin

It was not a costume party but we could have fit right in given the ride was on Halloween. A good group met up at Dudley’s Bakery near Julian for our annual fall tradition of retro kits and a great ride on the roads around Julian. We climbed up to Wynola and did the loop around to get to the start of the Banner Grade. I have a special place in my heart for this ride since about the 2nd-3rd turn on the descent is where I wiped out back in 2009 and the medical care helped find my renal cancer. The group sped down Banner Grade and stopped briefly at the store. John, Jeff L and I decided to climb back up at that point while the rest of the group continued on towards Sissors Crossing; they turned back somewhere out in that direction.

The climb up was nice, with little wind and a sunny, warming day. I got to the Julian Pie shop first while the other guys followed; all except John M–he continued onto Engineers Road. The group sat, ate pie, cookies and drank coffee for a good 45 minutes; a very relaxing morning. Guido and Jeff L had to head back home so they left the group when we headed out. The remaining riders turned onto Pine Hills, rode to Eagle Peak and hit Boulder Creek before climbing Engineers Road. We spread out along the climb and made our way over to the fire station. John M was returning before we got the steep sections of Engineers.

We regrouped at the Fire Station above Lake Cuyamaca and then started the return. Oleg got out early so he could take some photos of the guys flying down the descents. I was near the back and slowing as the ride was wearing on my legs. I also had my recently broken acromion from the MTB Nite riding fall earlier in the week. Climbing out of the saddle was especially challenging. Oleg picked up Richard and helped pull him along until they caught up to me near the Pine Hills turn. The three of us rode as a group back to Highway 78 and the final descent back to the cars. It was a 50 mile ride for me and 5,800 feet of climbing. It was 5+ miles more for the guys that descended more down Banner Grade. The Julian Fall Ride is a Descender Classic. Hope you can make it next year.

HVR & Old Julian Ride-19 December 2015

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6231299393240902257

Riders: Tony, Hodges, Eric R, Rick B, Guido, Ernst, Larry, Rob, Todd, Garet and a Rancho rider on HVR

Ernst made an unexpected showing for the group ride, maybe his self-imposed boycott was coming to an end. It was good to see him out. He was riding his newly modified 1 x 11 gearing with his disc brakes, he rode super strong all day long. The group met in RB and cruised over to HVR. I was recently back from my week of Cabo fun so I quickly fell off the climbing pace, settling into a slow rhythm. Guido and Hodges were back with me. Gareth was late to the start so he worked hard to catch us on the climb. Near the turn to Bandy, Guido got a flat. The rest of us pedaled on to the top where we regrouped at Archie Moore Road.

We made the decision to go back down HVR to sweep up and help Guido. The group climbed back towards the peak near Eagles Crest Road when we turned back. Rick, Eric and Todd had tight schedules so they had to leave. Larry, the Rancho rider we met, and Rob head back down HVR. I was quickly regretting trying to hold the wheel of those fast guys. The other guys were purportedly heading back down HVR.

After Archie Moore, we saw that Ernst Guido, Tony and Hodges were coming fast to catch us. Ernst was on point pulling the guys along. Garet must have retreated down HVR. We were back to a good sized group heading to Ramona; I failed miserably trying to hide in the back. I fell off and only caught the group at Highway 67 due to the red light. The pace along Dye Road was too much for me as well. By the time the group took the turn near Ramona HS for Old Julian, I was cooked.

I departed the group and continued on slowly through Ramona and over to descend the Ramona Grade. Traffic was not too heavy and I safely made it to Bandy. A slow climb up Bandy Canyon, down HVR and a pootle home via West Bernardo Drive and 4S. I got home with 63 miles and 4,000 feet of climbing. The rest of the guys did Old Julian and came home via Highway 67.

Xmas Eve Ride-6 Hills-24 December 2015

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6232801102945311329

Riders: Hodges, Bryan J, Farkas, Bob P, Voris, Geoff, Jeff L, Sheehan, Rob,Garet, Guido, Larry, Len and a few guests: Tony, Brandon and Brent

It was Xmas Eve and I hosted a ride copied off the Hodges route to the coast. We had a large group of riders, including a number of guests. Tony, the riding boyfriend of a Guidotti girl, Brent and Brandon, who was riding a Specialized hardtail MTB. All three of these guys were strong riders. We pedaled our way along the bike path and under I-5.

At Portofino we turned and climbed to Mango, making our way to Del Mar Heights Road. The Hodges route took us through the neighborhoods in Del Mar before we dropped back down to Jimmy Durante Blvd. The group peddled south through Del Mar towards Torrey Pines. Bob P had to bail while the rest of the group climbed the inside road up Torrey. The pace was quick but that did not slow down Brandon. He hammered up on his hardtail.

We regrouped near the golf course and cruised down to La Jolla Shores. Jeff L had to head home at this point. We went all the way to Prospect Road before turning to climb Soledad. The group went up Hillside, again at a brisk pace, to get to the Soledad Memorial. We descended Nautilus and looped back to the Shores before climbing Calle de Oro.

Sheehan fell off the back and made a wrong turn while the rest of the group rolled through the campus of UCSD. Hodges pulled some BWR training a took part of the group through the wooded trails. Larry had a derailleur problem when a stick jumped up into his bike. We regrouped on Genesee Road and made our way to the I-5 ramp. Our plan was to stop at Zumbar for coffee. We had lost a few riders but still had a good group ready to tackle the last few hill climbs.

At Zumbar, Voris and Farkas headed out. We called Sheehan but he was past Zumbar already. We had a nice chat on the front porch with the guys while Hodges played around with his tires, trying to fix two flats. Great coffee and snacks, got us motivated for the climb up Sorrento Valley. Brandon and Brent rode of in another direction while the last of the group rode up Sorrento Valley. Geoff, Hodges and I made a light right before the climb. We tried to get away but were caught by Tony, Bryan and Guido half way to the top.

We all descended Black Mountain but only Hodges had the energy to do the last climb up the Scripps Ranch Hill. The rest of us went up Black Mountain with Bryan peeling off at Park Village and the rest of us heading to home. It was a great Xmas present of a group ride, 47 miles and 3,500 feet of climbing.

Lake Wohlford & Couser Canyon Ride-26 December 2015

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6232804304775883969

Riders: Neil, Rick B, Voris, Geoff, Larry, Guido, Rob, Garet and Patrick & Tony O’Gorman. Also Matt Baab and another Matt–both Ranchos

Everyone had a Merry Christmas and all were ready for a last Saturday group ride of the year. The winds were coming from the north and it was a bright, crisp winter morning. We started at the North County Mall where the Ranchos were starting their usual Saturday group ride. Matt Baab was trying to get the Ranchos group to join our ride with limited success; only Matt and another Rancho, named Matt, joined us. It was cold and we had wind in our face to the climb of Lake Wohlford. Tony was having some breathing issues so Patrick rolled back to his dad. At the top of Wohlford we regrouped and rolled when Tony and Patrick caught up to the group.

The group rode toward Woods Valley and got split up as the pace quickened. At the corner there seemed to be a lull in the action. I decided to hit the accelerator and hammered for a few hundred yards. Matt, Matt and Larry rolled by me, followed by Rick B, Geoff, Guido and Voris. I barely hung onto the wheel of Voris as we sped along Woods Valley, turning towards Lilac Road. The O’Gormans and Garet went the other direction down Valley Center back towards Escondido.

We rode up Couser Canyon and went down the other side. The descent was beautiful, as usual, and we regrouped at Highway 76. A quick cut through the neighborhood got us to the climb back up to the Lilac Bridge. We hit the top and flew down towards Old 395. I was quickly passed by most of the group, tired legs were setting in fast. Geoff B passed me before the Lawrence Welk Resort, I was now sweeping. I skipped the Jesmond Dene turn and headed straight back into Escondido to get back to the mall. The rest of the guys came in a few minutes later. 53 miles and 4,000 feet of climbing for me, great way to finish the Descenders rides for 2015.

That’s all the ride reports for 2015. See you for the group ride on Saturday, let’s start off 2016 with a great group ride.

Rob

Pamo and Mussey Ride Report-12 December 2015

by Mike Hodges

Rick W, top notch rider with the Brooks saddle (“Brooks”, Mike F, John M and Mike H met at the 7-eleven. It was a bit nippy at the start and we were all looking forward, somewhat gallows humor, to the Pamo climb to warm up.

The climb up SPP was pedestrian, just enough to keep warm and listen to Mike F chatting all the way up. Mike has switched to a new MTB team (the one with Simon Planken rides for JW Floors Racing) and his new friends are beating him up on the rides – seems like there is an amazing route up to the observatory from the Eastern side (past Henshaw towards Warner Springs then hang a left) that should be done on MTB that can be done on a road bike – note for the BWR boys and girls (got to put the later in as Eileen B is signing up for BWR). Anyway, this off road route goes to the top of Palomar and the JW boys put a bit of time in to poor old Mike F.

Back to the ride today – smooth ascent of the col de 67 and the normal scream down to Dye road. . Mike F peeled off left at Archie More Rd leaving the 4 riders to continue down to Dye Rd. Not much off through and off as Rick W and Brooks shared the load with Mike H hanging on just and John hanging on a little bit less than just. No sprint points today at the end of Dye Rd. A casual paced transition across Ramona and on towards Pamo. Brooks saddle had a front tyre (sic) puncture (aka “a flat”) – last flat the group had was on Oleg’s Coronado caper and the change took sub 4 mins. Today was a leaf our of Mr. Ernst’s book “how to change a flat really slowly”. First – inspect the tire closely as though looking for forensic evidence at a crime scene. Second – Have a reluctance to get the levers to lever. Third – once tire off gently remove tube like an obstetrician doing a C section. By this time Mike H was getting a bit antsy (hard to believe) and grabbed the pump, ripping off the top and losing a critical rubber washer. Now the whole group was on the floor doing a good impression of archeologists inspecting a newly found cave at Qumran – it was at this time the slightly behind John whizzed past and was heard shouting “see you losers” (something like that). Eventually we got the pump to work and pumped the offending rubber ever so slowly to exactly 115 psi. The pump was now pulled from the valve – at least that was the aim except the valve came off with the pump. No valve no air – psssstttttt. Mike H was now having flash backs to Dave E’s epic flat change of a few years back – flashbacks are never pleasant. Mike H (who was now losing it a bit now) grabbed the valve and took over proceedings – he is in “management” you know. Pressed the valve back into place and starting turning without any advancement of said valve – a small voice was heard saying “ you’re putting the valve in back to front”. Easily corrected valve flip flop into the correct position and screwing motion now producing desired result. This time a different pump was used and tire quickly inflated to about 80 psi. We are back on the road.

Now, John at the time was dreaming of getting podium placements on the Pamo section – apparently a boyhood dream for him – he had figured that the three mechanics were pretty hopeless and would take about 10 minutes to change tire (we took nearer 20) which would be enough to get to the bottom of Pamo turn smartly and ascend at pace (~3 mph) and get the top spot on the podium. He pressed on with motivation of a Flanderian rider who has crested the Muur de Geradsbergen on the first Saturday in April in first place – the win almost assured, the crowds going crazy (there were a couple of walkers). Unfortunately, Lady Luck was not with John today – he too succumbed to the road debris and flatted at the top of the descent (sounds odd that). We were mightily surprised to see him but our group was complet encore.

The descent was slow due to patches of wet tarmac. Rick W decided mid descent to stop and wave his magic wand around, claiming it was just a bio break. Others pressed on and didn’t inspect. At the turn around another rider also decided to have a pee in a discreet place i.e. in the middle of road. Rick W now approaching the mid-road flasher turned in disgust.

Jon had taken a flyer up the climb and it took Mr Brooks saddle about 2 and half seconds to catch and pass John. Rick W somewhat tired legs today slowly cruised past John. Whilst Mike H only just about near the top hung on to John’s draft and came in together. So, again, all 4 riders stay together and cruised into Ramona. Stopped at the gas station ever so briefly – just enough for John to get his chocolate milk (I’m not kidding) – then headed off to Dye. Once more Dye was taken in the draft or Rick W and Brooks – nice and smooth with all 4 riders staying together.

John headed up the Col de 67 alone – to be fair, it actually looked as though our John was trying to turn down Mussey but the cars were not helping maters – so he headed on up alone. Rick W, Brooks and Mike H road fast down the descent at speeds 22 and 27 mph into a slight head wind – it felt fast. No stop at the bottom and immediate turn around. Mike H did quite well hanging until the last nasty bit – his form over the last three weeks has gone from “quite hopeless”, to “hopeless with signs of improvement” and this week reaching the dizzy heights of “still hopeless with definite signs of improvement”.

Turning left up the Col de 67 (this time there would be no chance of catching John) the pace was a step up from the Pedestrian pace of the SPP climb, perhaps reaching the level of “steady” or “tempo”, which did for Mike H, who was in a “hopeless” phase of his ride and had used up all periods of “improvement”. The Col de 67 was as it always is – once foot away from disaster on the left with the cars.

Hopefully everyone got back OK.

We normally say “you should have been there” – I think it applies to today’s ride, well we had fun that’s certain.

Hi Guys,

I have been remiss in getting out any ride reports of late. Below are a few group rides and photos I was able to attend over the last month.

Oceanside Harbor Loop-3 October 2015

Our usual fast paced coastal ride to Oceanside looked like it would be a nice relaxing poodle given riders that showed up for the start. We had 8 Descenders-Bob P, Jeff L, Hodges, John M, Bernie, Steve B, Claus and Rob-and a few guests at the corner. The guest were a nice couple, Bob and Karen, along with Andrew, a friend of Jim Wilkerson. We headed west on the bike path and then cut up towards Del Mar Heights before getting to the neighborhood by the pond. We wanted to heed the advice of Dave Ernst by staying away from the congested bike path and avoid the stop signs into Del Mar. As we crossed I-5, we climbed up the hill and then turned north to cruise through the small neighborhoods above PCH. Little did we know that Len and Larry were waiting for us down at the corner of Del Mar Heights and PCH.

Hodges led us through the curving roads to the cul-de-sac that overlooked the estuary and ocean, great views. After a group photo we looped back down hill and ended up by the racetrack, then crossed Via De La Valle and climbed up Ida Avenue before making our way to Nardo Road. Hodges loves the roundabout routes that get us to see some of the nice neighborhoods in Del Mar and Solana Beach. We eventually made our way over the pedestrian bridge, just north of the train station, and back onto PCH. The pace was lively but not too quick. We were now on our usual route going north, past Swami’s, the Neptune Loop and then up towards Carlsbad. This was about the time Len and Larry caught up to us. They waited at the corner where we never came. Larry then hammered up the coast with Len hanging onto his wheel.

Our pace quicker with the addition of Larry to the group. We flew into Carlsbad and up towards Oceanside. Jeff L turned around in Carlsbad. Steve B headed back south as we hit Oceanside Harbor. I tried in vain to get enough of a lead as we came to the last mile of the sprint. Larry waited patiently with Bernie and Andrew in his wheel, before they blew by me on the last curve. We did have a nice exchange with a truck that pulled a u-turn right in front of us with about a half mile to go; gotta stay awake out there. We stopped at the bathroom for a water break. Bob & Karen were heading a different direction so they pedaled away.

We finally got going again and I took off after passing the Oceanside Pier. The group slowly reeled me in just south of Carlsbad. We flew along past the power plat tower and descended down by Ponto Bech. I was on the front heading down and slowed a bit on the climb back up. Larry came to my when and gave me some assistance to climb faster. About this time I heard some noise and looked over my left shoulder. Len was in the air and falling hard. I saw Hodges near him. Hummm…I saw Hodges right in front of Tony a month earlier when he fell on our tour around RSF…coincidence….you be the judge.

Len sustained some elbow damage but he managed to get up. All the guys were trying to fix the bike and attend to Len. I think others jumped over the falling bike but it seemed like everyone else was ok. There was some talk about phoning Mary Beth, John’s wife to come get the wounded warrior. Eventually Bob P and I headed off to RSF. We knew the boys would catch us soon enough. Bob and I turned at La Costa and made our way over to Olivenhain. I was out of water so we stopped at the park to get a refill. We looked back to the road and saw Larry, Claus, Bernie and Andrew fly by. We knew we could not catch them so we kept our own pace climbing up El Camino Del Norte to RSF. We skipped Stud Loop and made our way toward Three Witches. We saw the fast guys coming out of Stud Loop as we went by and they caught us before we got to El Apajo. We climbed 3 Witches and spread out along the climb. We regrouped at the top and road through Santaluz, said bye to Bob and cruised out the south gate. We made our way back to the bike path with guys bailing out towards home. I got home, about 68 miles and less than 3,000 feet of climbing. A nicely paced 16.7 mph, no the usual hammerfest to Oceanside. Len was the only causality but he looked ok.

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6208963043430854529

La Jolla Shores Ride-11 October 2015

The Sunday Recovery Ride started with a nice group: Cresap, Peter, Steve B, JohnM, Sheehan and Rob. We rolled along the bike path and met Marci near Carmel Valley Road. We rode to the beach and climbed up Torrey Pines, outer road. At the top, I suggested we head towards La Jolla Shores for coffee. There was some indecision and by the time we got past UCSD, Cresap had got straight while John, Peter and Steve filled a u-turn to head back up the coast. That left me, Sheehan and Marci to turn right and ride down the hill, past the Oceanography Pier and into La Jolla Shores. We spotted a new coffee shop and stopped. Sheehan saw a few of his old business buddies, Scott, his CEO boss from Volcano and Jim Gerhardt, another ex-CEO from a pharma company. They chatted about new business deals and we relaxed drinking coffee with a couple of scones. The three of us rode up Calle del Oro, back down Torrey Pines and went with Marci back to El Camino Real. She split off and Sheehan and I went along Del Mar Heights, past the high schools and along Carmel Valley to get back to CDS. I made is home with just over 37 miles, a nice recovery ride.

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6208965115089236769

Torrey Pines and Sorrento Valley Loop-1 November 2015

Another Sunday Recovery Ride. We only had Bob P, Cresap, John M and Rob at the start of the ride. Daylight savings time had ended and we got an extra hour of sleep the previous night. I still wanted more rest to recover from the Julian Fall Ride the previous day. It will get its own ride report soon. Bob P had been out early so he was only heading to the end of the bike path with us. Jeff, John and I climbed Torrey Pines inside and regrouped at the top. It was another spectacular San Diego riding day. I suggested we roll through UCSD to get over the Sorrento Valley. Cresap noted the lack of traffic on Sunday am so we just hit it straight down Genesee, back to the I-5 ramp and went on the highway. We took the first exit to Sorrento Valley and climbed up to Calle Cristobal. I suggested we go climb the loops of Scripps Ranch but as we neared Black Mountain I changed my tune and said I would poodle home. John and Jeff headed straight while I turned left to descend Black Mountain and then climb back to the bike path. I limped home with only 28 miles on a nice recovery ride.

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6212771777448162097

Alpine Loop-7 November 2015

The weather was supposed to be great in the east county on Saturday. It was cool and crisp and the start. I was late but made my way to Spring Meadow to pick up Guido and Geoff B. It was good to see Geoff again. Hodges joined us but his cracked ribs were hurting, even at the start. We rode to the 7-11 store to find a good group of riders: Oleg, Rick B, Farkas, Tony, John M, Len and Larry. That gave us 11 riders at the start. We met Bernie heading up to SPP and picked up Neil in Lakeside; good group out on a great fall day. We climbed SPP; the bright blue skies with views to forever made the climb that much more enjoyable. At the top Farkas u-turned to take Miles to his soccer game. We flew down 67 to Lakeside and over toward Lake Jennings. Oleg had to bail early so he turned after the climb just before Lake Jennings. We now had Neil, so there were still 11 of us as we rode onto Blossom Valley to cut over to Old Highway 80. We spread out a bit on our way to Harbison Canyon. Larry was telling us stories of his childhood when he grew up near Harbison. Rick B, Neil, Geoff, Bernie, Guido, Larry and Rob were out front flying down Harbison. We hit the first descent between Chocolate Drop and Ironside Mountains. I was listening to Larry’s tales!

At the bottom we turned up Dehesa. I accelerated to get in front to take a few photos. By the time I looked back, I was near the entrance to Sycuan Casino. The guys had stopped at the corner. I kept climbing. Soon enough Neil and Rick were coming from behind, fast. Rick has his hurt wrist so he only had one hand on his handlebars. They flew by me, Larry was in hot pursuit. Bernie came by, then Geoff and finally Guido came up to me. The three of us rode the last mile or so together, turned onto Tavern and made our way to the shopping center for a break. Tony, Hodges, Len and John came while we relaxed, hydrated and chatted about biking.

John got out early for the return toward home. We all flew along Old Highway 80 again and went past El Monte–no El Capitan Reservior for this group today. Guido and Tony stopped for a second by the 7-11 while I pushed trying to catch the guys ahead. Neil went straight in Lakeside while we turned to get to the climb up 67. I caught the group after the turn at Wildcat Cantyon and we rode quickly, with Rick B on point to get to the start of the climb. Everyone spreadout on the climb and I suffered solo, watching Len and Geoff B up ahead getting farther and father in front of me. My plan was to descend SPP all the way back under I-15 and climb up Black Mountain to home. Fortunately Guido and Tony caught me right at the interesction of Pomerado. Tony turned north to head home while Guido and I climbed up to get back to Spring Meadow. I gladly accepted his ride home as he had parked in front of Casa Voris. I got in 68 miles but still tackled more than 5,500 feet of climbing. Nice day to be riding.

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6214601849522826657

Del Mar and PCH Loop-8 November 2015

This was a planned Sunday Recovery Ride. We met up at the Black Mountain corner: Hodges, Guido, Sheehan, Hermann, John M, Rob; along with Marci and her friend, Suzie. Hodges decided he wanted to take us on PortoMango loops through Del Mar adn get coffee at Jave Depot. We started fine, but hit the dirt hill off the bike path just to the right of the sunked neighborhood. Marci and Suzie were not having anyhting to do with the BWR stuff. They pedaled up toward Del Mar Heights. We did not want to get split so we all looped back to the road and I pushed to apce to try to catch them up by CCA, the curches and near Cathedral Catholic HS. I never found them. We regrouped and rode across Del Mar Heights to the neighborhood on Del Mar (see Oceaside Ride above). We stopped for our photo but Sheehan missed the turn. He kept going north and ran in Bob P ridng near Encinitas with his group. We got to Jave Depot and called Sheehan to come back south to join us. After a nice relaxing coffee, we rode south along PCH to the bike path. Did get a nice photo of the #obligitorrey shot–low tide, great view. The weather over the weekend was just perfect to be outside enjoying the sunshine, blue skies and great area in which we live. The bike path got a bit spirited on the final section towards CDS. Sheehan pushed the pace, Guido pulled mighily and I did a tug up the last hill over the bridge to wards to Mobil station. We all finally regrouped before I turned towards home–29 miles and a smile on my face. Time to take a dip in the pool, I love this place!

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6214872828451259681

Well, those are the ride reports and photos. I will finish a ride report for the Julian Fall Ride later this week. Mark your calanders for the Udo Heinz ride on Saturday, 14 November with the Ranchos. We should come with a strong show of support for all riders.

Ride safe,
Rob

Solo MTB Ride Report–Lopez Canyon

This week end I was thinking of doing the Julian Fall Ride – indeed the club is probably clipping into the pedals as I write and starting the climb up to Wynola. I was actually scheduled to do the “Dirty 50” MTB race around Lake Hodges so took my MTB to work yesterday to put it through its paces. One of my clients is atop Lopez so did the short sharp climb up to the Mesa. The last time I climbed up (yes upwards) my left side of my handle bars hit a “hidden” branch – it looked hidden as its covered in what looks like soft foliage so I brushed it as I went passed, except I didn’t just brush, more like hit and didn’t go past, more like came to a stop. A nice soft fall with more dust than blood. Now roll the clock forward to yesterday (this doesn’t turn out well for me no matter how you look at it) when I called Rob in the afternoon to get his thoughts on whether I should do the race of come to the Julian Fall Ride. Rob inspired me to come on the club ride as he had done a head plant a couple of days before whilst out mountain biking – I think I said something like “Ha, why am I not surprised” and probably shook my head and may even have tut tutted. Since Rob would now be as slow as me I made the decision to ride and not do the race. With those thoughts in mind and the week end plans now locked down I set off home, back to the Canyon. Now Lopez is a great descent – from the start gate there is a tight left, a straight, a couple of sweeping turns then the ruts and the exit. I didn’t have a care in the world, work done, decisions made, everything place for a lovely ride home. For a moment I thought of the irony if I crashed, just like Rob but I never crash, Rob crashes, not me. I took the first sweeping bend nicely, went high and cut down like a real “racer” (maybe I was feeling guilty pulling out of the race and wanted to atone?), then the right hand tight bend (that’s the real fun one) came and I leaned and cut the corner really nice (just like Racheal Atherton), saw my line of entry into the ruts, took the racing line to the right side of the trail, and then my right side handle bar hit the same branch …. The bike came to the same “stop”, but I’d like to place the word abrupt in front, and the other difference this time I kept moving to the left and hit the ground rather hard on my left side. I am now about ten feet down the trail away from my bike, which is laying peacefully up the trail right. Thankfully nothing too serious seemed to have happened. I just lay on the ground and ever so slowly got up – I now understand why the TdF riders stay on the ground after a pile up. It was a bit shocking as I did not see it coming – I took the line I was aiming for except it was obviously the wrong line. There was no bike handling errors just poor judgment (and memory – yes I know it was the same branch!). I’m going to get a hand-saw and that branch is going to be removed! Conclusions – new kit needed, broken watch and a couple of broken ribs. Overall I think I was lucky – I’ve no idea how fast I was going .. more than 10 less than 20 .. and I landed on sort of soft hard pack with rocks behind and in front. I had no time whatsoever to put my arms out so no clavicle injury, just took the full impact on my left sided ribs. Head never hit the ground. As I say, I was upright, then airborne then bang. Ride safe guys and remember where the obstacles are.