San Diego Descenders Cycling Club

Hi Guys,

The Saturday planned group ride was a loop up the coast to Oceanside Harbor. We had a large group of riders meet at the 8 am start at the corner of Black Mountain and the 56 bike path. It was supposed to be a group ride but it quickly devolved into a ride with lots of surges, split riders and a hammerfest to Oceanside. I was a few minutes late trying to fix my rear tire, so I waited for the group on the Darkwood Trail bridge, just down the hill from the start. A large mass of riders came towards me. I did not do a headcount but captured the following riders at some point on the ride: Cresap, Sheehan, Larry, Hodges, Paul P, Bernie, Hermann and Jeremy, John M, Garet, Todd, Rick W, Guido, Steve K, Geoff, Ernst, Claus, Len (TE) and me–at least 19 riders.

The early split happened at the end of the bike path as we headed to the coast. We picked up Len at the corner of Del Mar Heights and PCH but lost more guys through Del Mar. The pace along PCH to Swami’s was fast and then Rick W, Guido and I hammered along Neptune but it seemed like most regrouped back onto PCH. A number of us had schedule conflicts so at La Costa Ave we turned back inland: Todd, Geoff, Steve K and myself. We hooked back up with Garet soon after.

The rest of the group, with some guys now clearly missing, continued north to Oceanside. I heard the pace and splits continued throughout the ride. A number of guys did the last of the BWR dirt training, while others just kept piling on century mileage. We did have one bad casualty from the extended ride. Sheehan was trying to head to Questhaven and more dirt/BWR training. He took the right hand turn from Rancho Sante Fe Road to San Elijo Road too hot, missed turning and hit the curb across the second lane. This stopped his bike real quick but his body kept flying over into the on-coming traffic side of San Elijo Road. He bounced well, rolled pretty well and then hit the front left side of a stationary car with a thud. This, unfortunately, produced some very negative repercussions to his rib cage. The good news is that he did not lacerate his liver, spleen or other vital internal organs. He did, however, break 6 ribs as determined by contrast media scans at the Emergency Room. Dave seems to be on the mend but he will miss the BWR ride on Sunday. Sheehan says he will be back for the Monster Climb trip. He, of course, went for a short ride yesterday to test his body; get some needed rest!

Our little group of 5 riders headed for RSF. We cruised up El Camino Del Norte and regrouped before heading into Stud Loop. We ditched down Zumaque and back up Artesian where we split again, with Todd and Garet heading north while Geoff and I cruised down Camino del Sur; Steve K stayed at the top of Artesian to make a phone call before pedaling back home. Our group rode between 45-50 miles but we all got home safely for our family and other commitments. Below is a link to the photo album.

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6139827838973931345

The BWR route has been posted. I have pasted it below. Looks like a great route–140+ miles and 10,000+ feet of climbing. Good luck to all those riding BWR on Sunday.

http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/671554178

The Alpine Challenge is Saturday morning. I will drive my van with a bike rack for 4 riders. We will meet at Casa Voris early on Spring Meadow. We can start the ride as early as 6 am but think a bit later time is more appropriate. I will have more details in a few days. If you are not doing BWR, come out for a great ride up Dehesa and maybe Laguna Mountain.

Rob

RAC Ride 2015–Julian Pie Shop in Julian, CA–Day 4

Hi All,

Another epic Descenders ride yesterday. We started in Santa Ysabel and heading to East Grade via Mesa Grande. Mike Hodges made a cameo as the RAC kids pedaled to Dudley’s Bakery on their way to Black Canyon.

We climbed East Grade and then down/up South Grade. A number of the faster guys also did the out-n-back to the Palomar Observatory. We saw Larry Tanzo, Matt Baab and the Ranchos crew as they came to Mother’s from climbing Nate Harrison Grade; good BWR training.

We returned back down East Grade and over Mesa Grade. 70 miles and 8,200 feet of climbing; more for the Observatory guys. Beautiful day and a great ride.

A few photos in the link.

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6136879716440715793?authkey=COnxoY2wmpO7dw

Rob

Hi All,

I know many are doing the BWR event on Sunday, 26 April. One or two might be game enough to do the BWR and do the Alpine Challenge the day before–crazy! See below the details for the Alpine Challenge. The Early Bird registration fee is only $55 and we get a 10% Descenders team discount–so less that $50 bucks. Print off the registration from and mail in your check this week.

We had a great group ride yesterday–Mussey & Pamo. The hardy BWR trainees split at the bottom of Pamo and continued on in the dirt. The rest of us pavement wimps rode back up Pamo. Many finished century rides with most riders at 70+ miles for the day. Great club ride. See some photos in the link.

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6134441228117179761?authkey=CIqL5Pvgu5K8HA

15th ALPINE CHALLENGE
East San Diego County mountains April 25, 2015

REGISTER TODAY
Save 27% before April 11

Rob

Harmony Grove, Crestwind, Attebury, Via Ambiente, Del Dios, Lake Hodges Trails Loop

Riders: Dave Sheehan & Rob Verfurth

39 miles, 4,400 feet of climbing

Dirt on Crestwind, Attebury & Lake Hodges

Enough said…..photos below.

Sheehan will host the next Skive ride on Wed, 8 April–meet at start of HVR at 8:30 am.

Skive Ride Report-HVR, Bandy, Summit & Jesmond Dene Loop

by Rob Verfurth

Riders: K.C. Butler, Jeff Langley, Dave Sheehan and Rob Verfurth

It was St. Patrick’s Day and the call went out to all Descender Irishman to come ride; along with remembering to wear something green. Unfortunately our only true Irishman, Tony O’Gorman, could not make it. We did have Sheehan, who has some Irish lineage in his family tree, KC and Jeff wore green Jersey’s and I went to Notre Dame–GO Irish!

We met at our usual time–8:30 at the start of HVR. KC survived our assault of Camino del Aguila the previous week. Sheehan was again pushing for a visit to Crestwind, but Jeff was not interested in too much elevation. Jeff and KC had just returned from the Solvang ride on Saturday with Jeff braving a windy 100 mile ride. We decided to take our route around Escondido, up Jesmond Dene and eventually make our way to our favorite coffee shop.

It was another beautiful San Diego morning, a little cool for me but warming nicely. We rode up HVR, regrouped at Bandy Canyon and then flew down towards 78. KC and Sheehan did most all the work up front while Jeff and I hid as best we could. We climbed Summit with Sheehan pushing the pace and surging past me at the top. A nice cruise to Citrus got us to El Norte Parkway where we rolled over to the start of Jesmond Dene. The pace was civil but Sheehan kept increasing his cadence up the climb. I blew up before the last face and caught up to Dave as we waited on Centre City Parkway to regroup.

The road back toward town has recently been repaved so it is nice a smooth. The four of us flew along and stopped only at a few inopportune red lights. We were looking forward to an almond croissant at A Delight of France. We sat on the porch and enjoy day, our snack and some good conversation. The ride back to the start had us head down Bear Valley to the mall, over the pedestrian bridge for dried up "Lake" Hodges and along Pomerado. KC and Jef kept going down Pomerado while Sheehan and I cut through to get back to his house. It was a nice 44 mile morning rode, look forward to another Skive Ride soon.

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6127605966455301681?authkey=CJ_kk93sp6exvQE

We had 10 riders today on Del Dios/HVR/Mussey ride (but only 4 completed ride as planned). When Larry and I pulled up at 7:59 to the meeting spot, there was nobody there, not even at 8:01! We even though we mixed something up. But soon we had a few riders arrive (Voris, Rick W., Bob Raibert, Claus) and we collected a few others (Garet, Bernie, Proulx, Sheehan) on the way to RSF.
It was a bit windy on Del Dios, but temperatures were still moderate – it was got up to 96F today, and my Garmin showing numbers as high as 110F.
There was a bit of surging towards the top of Del Dios but at the top, right by the Lake Drive
turn Larry and I stopped due to mechanical – when we got to gas station by I-5, it was just Claus, Bernie and Rick – Sheehan went off to HVR and the rest went home. We had some serious power between the 5 of us and pretty closely matched riders, so we rode steady together up HVR, no stopping or regrouping – it was getting hot now. We saw Sheehan descending on his way back at the top of HVR. Rick W. decided to skip Mussey and went back home, so it was down to 4 – we cruised down Mussey and rode back up – Claus "creaky knees" was going home via HVR and said not to wait for him but instead rode away from us on Mussey and we never saw him again – impressive! Larry, Bernie and I rode back to Poway with some strong tailwinds at times – it really got hot in Poway. Larry and I stopped for coke and much needed ice-cream before heading to the coast – it was even hot on the coast. Nice day to be riding and doing some heat acclimation – Larry and I ended up with about 100mi, but Claus got 105 miles, plus some golf later in the day.
You should have come!

Even more photos: https://picasaweb.google.com/109410926478548321411/20150314?authkey=Gv1sRgCOL5u8b2r9WBnQE

Skive Ride-HVR, Camino del Aguila and High Valley Loop-10 March 2015

by Rob Verfurth

Riders: Dave Sheehan, KC Butler and Rob Verfurth

There were only three of us available for the Skive Ride on Tuesday. We met at the corner of HVR. Sheehan and I convinced KC to explore some new climbs and head up toward Ramona. We rode up HVR and took the turn onto Camino del Aguila. It was steep and a bit bumpy. It got steeper as toward the top where we took a rest while admiring the views in all directions. We showed KC where the climb up Stagecoach goes (another great climb out of the Heritage neighborhood) and the hilltop water tower across the valley. With building high pressure, we have great views all the way to the coast.

The climbing was not done so we continued across the top section of Starvation Mountain and cut through the dirt road to Eagles Crest. It is only about a 50 yard dirt section and then back to the road. We stopped again to show the views toward the Ramona reservoir and Mount Woodson. The roads in Eagles Crest was great. We cruised up and down, turned onto Falcon Heights and went to the end. We hit the dirt, back onto some road and then back onto dirt toward the Green Valley Truck Trail. This dirt road takes you back to HVR.

We decided to head left and turn onto Sky Valley to loop around that small neighborhood. The road has been recently fully paved and it drops out by the elementary school. We rode along HVR with Sheehan and KC taking turns on point. I hid and tried to hang onto a wheel. We cruised down 67 into Ramona and stopped at Packard Coffee Shop. The coffee and pastries were good; not quite as good as the almond croissant in Escondido, but pretty good. We sat on the front porch and enjoyed the morning activities buzzing around town. After a nice break we headed out on 8th Street and hit Hansen on our way to San Vicente. Sheehan pulled like a madman along Dye and I was spent before we got back to 67. I felt my rear tire soften, it was low on air. My least favorite section of 67 towards Mt Woodson saw me fall behind. I stopped to fill my tire and slowly trudged to Mina de Oro where Dave and KC were waiting.

We descended down to High Valley and then took the left onto Espola. KC showed us his neighborhood, just past Poway HS, before Dave and I looped back to his house. 40 miles, 3,300 feet of climbing on a beautiful morning on great roads in San Diego. Can’t beat that. Here are a few photos. Come next Tuesday for the Skive Ride.

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6125200760272459825?authkey=CP656ZeIjq2JygE

St Paddy’s Palomar Punishment Ride-CCSD Event-7 March 2015by Rob Verfurth

Riders: Oleg, Larry, Ernst, Bernie, Rick B (ElliptiGO), Denise B, Bryan Taylor, Eric G, Steve B, Peter, Paul, Geoff B, Bill Wood, Rob V, Nate Miller (with fiance, Mercedes), Herman S, Hodges–17 Descenders

We had a great turn-out for the CCSD St Paddy’s Palomar Punishment ride. The event started up in Escondido, right near the Lake Wohlford climb. It was cold-45 degrees-at 6:30 am when many riders arrived for the start of the ride. The first wave left at 7 am with many Descenders out in front. Bryan Taylor, Geoff, Steve and I got through the light and started quickly up the climb of S6 (Valley Center Road). Paul P was right with us while another group of riders sat at the red light. We knew if we could get to Woods Valley with the lead group, we could hang most of the way to the bottom of Palomar South Grade climb. On the climb we passed Rick B chugging away on his ElliptiGO–I knew I would see him again soon enough. About 3/4 of the way up the climb the rest of the group caught up to us. Now the group surged forward and riders started to fall away. Both Paul and I are in the recovery stages of wicked head colds. We were coughing and hacking while trying not to get dropped.

At the turn to Woods Valley there were many Descenders in the lead group–Bryan, Oleg, Larry, Ernst, Geoff, Bernie, Paul and me. There were a few other guys as we pulled along Woods Valley towards the turn toward Valley View Casino. The pace was quick but doable. We flew down toward Valley Center and took the right turn toward Harrah’s Casino; the steep, bumpy descent toward South Grade. We made it to Harrah’s in the lead group but started to lose touch right before the turn at the 76/Taco Shop. Paul fell away first and then I lost contact, watching the lead guys start the South Grade climb. I spent pretty much the rest of the ride solo, it was a lonely man’s ride.

I kept a few guys in sight heading up the early miles of the climb but mostly just spun away, tried to clear my ears and coughed a lot. It was a beautiful, blue sky day, still a bit cool but warming nicely. I hit the Y about 8:30 am and began my assault up the KOM segment of South Grade. There was a SAG stop in the Oak Knoll campground that I skipped, I got there later on the way back. I rode alone, seeing no one ahead and only got passed by a handful of riders on the climb. About mile marker 44, I hear the bell from Rick’s ElliptiGO and see him charging up fast. He closed the gap so quickly that I barely had time to capture a photo. He flew by and quickly disappeared up the road.

I finally hit the top about an hour later, almost 10 minutes slower than my PR but it felt good to see Mother’s. The SAG stop was right there too. I saw Geoff B still holding audience with a few other riders and enjoying some of the snacks. I ate and drank plenty before Geoff and I decided to ride out to the Observatory. Denise had come up the climb and already set out to try to catch Rick. Geoff and I flew down into some cold sections of road. There was snow still on the sides and I was glad I had my vest on. We saw Bryan Taylor out front, already on the return from the Observatory. He was with one other lead rider; they were humming. Soon after we saw Oleg and Larry returning from the Observatory, followed by Ernst, then Rick B and finally Bernie. They were all motoring towards the East Grade descent. Geoff and I caught up to Denise at the end of the road. We took a quick photo and then headed back. Denise was going back down South Grade. Geoff and I stayed close together on the way back to Mothers. We saw Steve B and Hodges heading out as we were almost back. Geoff did not stop at the SAG so I kept going too.

Geoff had a small gap on me as we hit East Grade. He quickly opened up a huge gap and I lost sight of him, never to see him again on the ride. The descent of East Grade is bumpier than my last descent ride there; it definitely needs some road work. The motorcycle traffic had been light going up South Grade and almost no traffic on East Grade made for a very pleasant descent. About 2 miles from the bottom Oleg and Larry were already heading back up. Next came Ernst and then a bit later Bernie. Super kudos to those four guys–once up and down Palomar was not enough for them!

I got to the bottom and turned onto 76, it was now close to 11 am. The 76 back toward the Taco Shop is a nice road but there was more traffic. I was alone, saw no one behind and nothing ahead. It was a fairly slow and painful spin back to the Y. I stopped at the SAG I had skipped earlier, in need of water and a restroom break. There were a few other riders who had descended back down South Grade, so at least I was not alone. I ate, drank and finally spun out again; heading for Cole Grade. The final descent is always fast and fun, until you hit the flat sections of Pauma Valley. 76 is always a bit busy but it was only a few miles before we took the turn onto Cole Grade Road. I saw a few riders up ahead and began what I knew would be a painful climb. It had warmed significantly and I had dispatched of my leg and armer warmers at the SAG. I wish I could have given my vest to someone but I just unzipped and pedaled on.

Part way up I saw Bill Wood taking a short break in the shade of a tree. The CCSD folks were kind enough to give us a 1 mile to the top marker but it was still a long hill. Near the top I spotted Nate Miller waiting for his fiance, Mercedes, to climb up Cole Grade. Nate might have so traumatized Mercedes that she is now just his girlfriend. At the finish Mercedes said they needed to have a long talk. Good luck Nate. After passing the high school we took a turn onto Miller Road. This looped us around and eventually dropped us back onto Valley Center Road; a nice way to ride next group ride. I was still riding alone but did see one guy ride up behind me at the Lilac Road light. He took the turn for the Supreme Punishment loop. I thought Oleg, Larry & the guys who climb back UP Palomar might have had a chance to catch me before I went straight. I did not see them.

The final 5 miles were just back through Valley Center and descend back to the start. I did have to do a quick loop in the neighborhood to hit 80 miles. My Garmin said 8,950 feet of climbing. My legs felt it. I got back to the car and saw Denise. She was waiting for Rick who was out finishing the Supreme loop. While I was changing I saw Bryan Taylor and the other rider come in–the first guys to finish the full 97 mile loop. Great riding Bryan. After some food, drink and post-ride chat with Bill Wood, Denise, Nate, Ernst & Monica Taylor, who stayed with the kids while Bryan rode, I headed home. I was exhausted and my ears hurt. I had trouble clearing them due to my cold and all the elevation change. It was a tough ride, but great fun. I see from the Strava posts that Oleg, Larry and Bernie all did the twice up Palomar sections and the Supreme Punishment–over 105 miles–nice job boys. Lots of great riding out there for all the Descenders that participated in the event. Thanks to CCSD for hosting. I put a link for my photos below.

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6123664623996519041?authkey=CJyRsJLX25vo3gE

Rob

ps. Bryan Jones is hosting a PQ Canyon MTB ride and Sheehan is hosting the Sunday Recovery ride. Don’t forget about Daylight Savings–starts at 2 am–spring forward one hour.

Mussey Grade, Pamo, Ramona Grade & Bandy Ride Report-28 Feb 2015

by Rob Verfurth

Riders: Dave Sheehan, Bill Wood, Nate Miller, Rob Verfurth & a cameo appearance by Dave Ernst

The weather reports spooked many with calls for torrential rains all weekend. I expected a small group as I pedaled alone along the wet streets of Poway Road toward the 7-11 store meeting spot. It was not raining but it was not sunny either. I had ridden on Friday with Bob P and was feeling a head cold coming, but thought a good ride would do me some good.

At the start were Sheehan, Nate and Bill Wood, four-man group ride….the Skive Rides were getting better attendance! We did not let the low turnout or cloudy skies dampen our enthusiasm. We rolled out toward SPP.

We climbed up SPP and spotted a Descenders kit descending as Nate and I neared the top; it was Ernst. He looped back to meet us at the light. Ernst got a late start so he rode up Poway Grade to meet the group. We waited at 67 for Sheehan and Bill to join. Bill was having some front derailleur shifting issues, not a good thing on a climbing day of Mussey & Pamo.

As we rode north on 67 the rains started to come down pretty heavy at times. By the time we got to Mina de Oro Ernst had had enough. He bailed left to descend High Valley and head back home. The rest of us climbed around Mt Woodson and screamed towards Mussey. Sheehan, Nate and I pulled hard with Bill playing catch-up. I finally blew up and watched Nate and Dave head to the start of Mussey. The descent was more punishment, Sheehan and Nate flew down while I took a much more cautious approach, backing off after the first mile and enjoyed a leisurely descent. The clouds were thick over San Vicente Reservoir but the rains had stopped. We could even see some sun breaking through the clouds. We took a few photos and ate some snacks before starting the climb back. We were planning to regroup with Bill at the top.

On the climb up I suggested that Dave and Nate go up Mahogany Ranch to burn up a few more matches, they were hurting me. Nate took the turn ahead of us and Sheehan convinced me to join. We climbed up and enjoyed the great views with the sun shining between large clouds. It was a pretty day. We descended fast and continued up Mussey. More of Nate and Dave pushing and me falling behind. At the top Bill said he had to get back so he reversed course down 67 while we headed for Ramona. I took off first and had a large lead on Dave & Nate going into Dye Road. They continued to close the gap and caught me at the turn onto San Vicente Road. We rode on some back roads into town and stopped for water at the Chevron.

The roads were now dry again, there was some sun and a bit of a breeze as we rolled to Pamo. We had decided that we would loop back via the Ramona Grade after Pamo and climb up Bandy to get home. We told Nate about the off camber curves since this was his first time to Pamo Road. The descent was fast, maybe wind aided. At the bottom I told the guys to keep going. I was turning around for the climb and told them to catch me. I slowly lumbered up, stopping to take a few photos of the beautifully green valley. I expected them to turn at the dirt but Nate wanted to ride the dirt for a bit, BWR training. They were well behind me at this point.

I rode up and headed for the Ramona Grade. The rains started again as I descended. Traffic was not too bad. I kept looking over my shoulder expecting the boys to be there soon. I kept pedaling, rode through the grounds of San Pasqual Academy to Bandy Canyon. There was no one in sight as I climbed Bandy and then stopped at the corner of HVR for some food & drink. It was now after 12 noon and I was just about to take off when Sheehan rounded the corner on Bandy. He lost Nate when he dropped his chain on the Pamo climb. Nate rode back through Ramona and rode down 67, reversing his course to the start and his car. We learned this from Strava after the ride. At the time we just assumed he went back via Ramona. Sheehan and I descended the last mile of HVR as another squall came and went. I was really feeling tired and had trouble holding Dave’s wheel as we rode to Pomerado. He went left to his house and I pootled home via 4S Ranch and behind Black Mountain.

It had been a fun ride, only a bit of rain and lots of great climbing. I covered 72 miles with 5,600 feet of climbing. Unfortunately that head cold appeared and I have been trying to kick it all week. The link below shows the photos from our ride.

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6122580465554433553?authkey=CLfC0Ln-1L22fw

Rob

We have tried to be fairly consistent with our Tuesday morning Skive rides. They always start at 8:30 am and we meet at the start of HVR. They have been very popular rides for those who can adjust their work schedules. The skive ride concept has expanded to more weekday rides working different schedules. I will briefly recap the recent Tuesday morning Skive Rides.

Harmony Grove, Questhaven, Via Ambiente & Del Dios Loop-17 Feb 2015

Riders: Dave Sheehan, Tony O’Gorman, KC Butler and Rob Verfurth

Ride: 41 miles and 3,800 feet of elevation

We all met on the corner of HVR and planned to ride toward Elfin Forest. Sheehan tried to convince Tony and KC that they must ride up Crestwind, but they were not biting. We rolled along Via Rancho Parkway after crossing the Lake Hodges bridge, took the turn onto Bernardo Ave and made our way over to the start of Harmony Grove. Of course Sheehan still had us take the turn towards Crestwind. We stopped as he explained the roads and turns that would get us up towards the top of the hill, as he point up to the very top of the highest peak in view. Tony and KC committed that someday soon they will tackle Crestwind. It is a real leg burner for sure.

Sheehan did convince Tony and KC to ride up Questhaven–just a little dirt to spice things up. We all made good time climbing Questhaven and looped through the neighborhood to get to San Elijo Road. We did take a short break at the top of Questhaven to show the guys Attebury Road noting how it can connect up to Crestwind, just planting seeds for future rides. We sped down into the main square of San Elijo Hills for our planned stop at Cafe Stoked for coffee. We met up with Larry Gitman and a riding buddy of his. KC Butler has put on the Tour of Poway for many years and Larry Gitman use to organize rides as well. The last time I saw Larry was on the Tour of Palm Springs in 2013. He gave me a tube after my second flat. Len (TE) has known Larry for years. We all sat around and had a good time chatting about bike events, a little Lance bashing and local rides.

After coffee, the four of us headed back along Elfin Forest Road to Via Ambiente. This is always a tough climb. Sheehan led off the front with KC next while Tony and I swept. I finally caught up to KC at the top. Sheehan was probably already finished descending by this time. We all regrouped at Del Dios, facing another another climb back towards the start. The two miles from the bottom of Del Dios to the turn onto Lake Drive is always a hard ride for me. Tony and I took off first but were quickly passed by Sheehan and KC. As I trudged up the climb a strong, solidly built guy went by me pushing a big crank. I accelerated to catch his wheel and held on for as long as I could. I got past KC but never caught up to Sheehan–looking super strong.

We all regrouped at the corner of Lake Drive and then enjoyed our ride along the edge of the lake and under the canopy of oaks, love that section of road. After a final regroup at Via Rancho Parkway, Sheehan led off with me hanging on his wheel. We eventually broke KC with Tony falling back too. Sheehan and I were screaming down the hill when we hit the red light; buzz kill and stop. The light turned green just as KC flew through and led us toward the freeway. We crossed the freeway, said good-bye to Tony and the 3 of us spun back across the pedestrian bridge.. We rolled along Pomerado, cut through toward Valle Verde and said bye to KC. He still had a few more miles to go. Great route, lots of elevation and time for a coffee break.

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6119945622103057681?authkey=CI2-0MK8uPOH8gE

Mary Lane, Summit, Jesmond Dene, Old 395, Gopher Canyon and Twin Oaks Valley Loop-24 Feb 2015

Riders: Todd Callaway, Tony O’Gorman, Dave Sheehan, Steve Bosowski and Rob Verfurth

Ride: 50 miles and 3,600 feet of elevation

It was sunny but cool as we rode from Sheehan’s house to the meeting spot at the start of HVR. Todd was waiting with Tony and Steve rolling up just after the arrival me and Sheehan. After some general discussion on routes and time constraints we settled on Tony’s route he recently put into Strava–basically north to Gopher Canyon and then south on Twin Oaks Valley. Todd wanted to get home by 11 am. Sheehan proposed Crestwind, again. Steve was riding on a 25 tooth rear cassette so we all decided Tony’s route was faster and less climbing.

The group rolled together until we started the climb up Mary Lane. Todd is a great climber and he accelerated up the ride. Sheehan and I hung pretty well, but burned some early matches, while Steve and Tony came just behind. The group rode along Summit and then over to El Norte Parkway. Todd and Sheehan were in front most of the time, offering a bit of protection from the winds. We did the gratuitous climb up Ash and over toward the start of Jesmond Dene. Todd was on point and Sheehan refused to get on his wheel. I tried to get some protection from Todd’s 135 lbs body mass, gut there was little to offer. Sheehan, Steve and Tony followed. Todd did all the work. The winds were in our face–gusts coming from the NNW direction. I faded halfway up the climb so the rest of the guys motored along with Tony coming behind me. I regrouped to catch Steve at the top with Sheehan and Todd just ahead. We rode to the intersection of Mountain Meadow Road. I saw a cyclist with a bright yellow jacket out in front with what appeared to be the coloring of Descenders bibs. He crossed through the intersection as I yelled, "Bill". I finally recognized our Australian teammate.

Bill was riding to Temecula with his wife, Laurie, following in the truck. Great one-way ride effort. We rode as a big group up Old 395 with a solid headwind. Each guy took turns at the front to absorb some of the wind. Bill was turning at Old Castle Road and heading to Couser Canyon & Rice Canyon to get to Temecula. We waved bye to take the left at Gopher Canyon. We stopped at the light when a group of motorcyclists rolled up next to us. A lady on the back of a bike asked Todd if there was a gas station near-by. He promptly replied that he does not know, we do not use gas; great line for the ride. Todd led us up the climb up with Sheehan following. We rode hard up and over the hill, looking left to find the Twin Oak Valley Road. We got to the sign and stopped, regrouped and then had to decide if we should take the road. A big sign said, "Not a Through Road." Sheehan said that was just for cars.

The climb up was steady and the valley beautiful. We found rolling hills and eventually made our way to a locked gate, easily navigable for bikes. We continued climbing and rolling down hills, the wind was mostly to our backs. It is a great road and we need to include in a Descenders route someday. We rode south towards Route 78 and could see CSUSM up ahead. We should have turned left onto Borden Road and made our way toward north Escondido. We kept going straight, over 78 and then finally left onto Barham Dr, going right by the university.

Todd was now late so we hustled along, rode by the Palomar Medical Center and the Auto Parkway. We had plans for a coffee break so Steve volunteered to route Todd back down Centre City Parkway and to the Westfield Mall while Sheehan, Tony and I rode into downtown Escondido. An almond croissant waited at A Delight of France. Tony gave us a tutorial on car engine combustion research. Sheehan piped in his engineering credentials while I, with glazed over eyes, drank my coffee. It was a beautiful day, the temps had warmed nicely and the porch seating provide excellent views. This has become a must stop locale for our Skive rides. To his credit, Hodges found the cafe first.

The rest of the way home was the usual ride down Bear Valley and over the Lake Hodges bridge to Pomerado. Tony reversed course before the bike path while Sheehan and I rolled back to his house. I have attached a few photos from each ride. Hope you can join us on a Skive ride soon.

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6120179696531680465?authkey=CJiPj8rauenw0gE

Descenders:

Read all about another one of Rick’s epic adventure on two wheels. See attached.

Ride Report QnD 2.22.15.pdf

Story ready to view

2015_02 14 Poway to Palm Desert Ride Feb 13 · 3 days · 24 moments View story

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Palm Springs Adventure Weekend–13-15 February 2015

by Rob Verfurth

Our last group adventure to Palm Springs was in 2013. Len, Hodges and I left Spring Meadow that day well aware of the terrible weather that potentially lay ahead. We had to ride up through Temecula and toward Hemet due to snow in Anza, our original route. It was blowing rain, hailing and eventually we rode through inches of snow up to Beaumont. Fortunately we had a back-up plan with Bill Wood driving out to Palm Springs. He picked up our cold and tired bodies from Beaumont. The rest of the weekend was a success as we crashed in a small hotel room, rode the 100 mile Tour of Palm Springs on Saturday morning and then drove back to San Diego.

We learned from our mistakes the years before so we planned the trip differently for 2015. We obviously did not learn all our lessons because we signed up again for a weekend riding adventure with Hodges. Shelley Hodges was great helping us find a house to rent and more details on restaurants, etc. The plan was to ride again from Spring Meadow, leaving about 7 am. We had four riders this year: Len, John M, Hodges and me. John’s wife, Mary Beth, was driving our team vehicle later in the day and planning to follow our route to sweep us up as needed. The weather was going to be much better than 2013. We had expected warmth with a subsiding Santa Ana wind on Friday. I checked the hourly weather and the winds in Santa Ysabel were still 20+ mph Friday am. It was going to be a long day.

I got to Hodges house just about 7 am and guys were ready to roll. After getting the luggage vehicle ready, we rode off about 7:20 am, heading for Poway Grade. It was brisk, a bit windy but sunny. Hodges quickly fell to the rear and struggled up the climb. We hit the top of Poway about 8 am, turning north on highway 67–off to Old Julian Highway. I pulled most of the way with Hodges either playing possum or really struggling as lanterne rouge of the group. We rode up OJH at 9 am and waited at the top for Hodges before tackling the open road of highway 78 for Santa Ysabel. The winds were still in our face, Hodges fell back again and we slowed to stay as a group. I went back to imitate my best Rick B role of the "Hand of God" and pushed Mike along for a bit. We eventually made it to the bakery where we stopped for food & drink.

Mike seemed to regain some form as we headed north towards Warner Springs. The traffic was fairly busy, the winds STILL in our face and we rolled along as best we could, passing the S2 dirt parking lot about 11 am. We flew out of Warner Springs, past the Gliderport and onto Sunshine Summit. We stopped for some rest and a coke. It was now 12:30 and we were falling behind our planned schedule. Fortunately, Mary Beth, was heading out behind us if needed. I had to use the restroom so Hodges and the group left me behind. The descent to Aguanga and the start climb up highway 371 was about 11 miles. I hauled fanny trying to catch them but they had already made the turn by the time I got there. John was up about a half mile while Len and Mike waited closer to the turn. It was now 1 pm and we needed lunch.

The climb up highway 371 is always tough. The traffic is busy and the road narrow. The worst part, of course, is the winds in your face while facing a steady 4-6% grade. Mike was getting steadily strong, Len never wavering and John coming up the climb a bit more slowly. We stopped after a long climb to regroup. We were just on the edge of Anza and then we passed the Cahuilla Mountain Market. This is where I stopped 3+ years ago on my solo ride to Palm Springs. Mike wanted to go to this great diner at the east side of Anza. It was after 3 pm when we rolled up to Diner 371. I was done and needed some food. The burger and fries were not that great but they quickly disappeared. John caught up to us and Mary Beth was now there with the car.

I knew the climb out of Anza to Highway 74 was going to hurt. I told everyone that at the bottom of 74 in Palm Desert, I would be done for the day. John got a ride with MB to the top of the climb. I was again a not quite ready to leave so Hodges and Len rolled off without me. I struggled up the final 6 mile climb, watching Hodges and Len roll out of sight. I still had 25 more miles to get to Palm Desert when I finally turned onto highway 74. The rollers along 74 sapped the remaining energy from my legs but the final 15 mile descent was loads of fun. Beauty views and lots of speed. The best view of the day was to see John at the corner of Highway 111 with MB and the car in the parking lot next door. I had ridden 113 miles from Poway to Palm Desert; it was almost 5 pm and I was done. We loaded into the car and drove the final 15 miles to our house near downtown Palm Springs.

Len and Hodges rode along highway 111 and met us at the house. They had completed the full 128 mile ride–studs. Shelley had baked us a large lasagna and we had salad. I brought a case of beer and made a quick grocery store run to get milk and OJ for the group. The house was great. John and MB had the Master BR, Hodges had the room to himself (due to his professed snoring), while Len and I shared the 3rd BR. The house had a great pool and hot tub, awesome backyard and views of the San Jacinto Mountains. We ate dinner on the back patio and then relaxed by watching the Lance Armstrong documentary. I stayed up to watch the whole movie while everyone else drifted off to a well deserved night of rest. I had already proclaimed that I would start the ride late and likely do just the 50 miler on Saturday.

Morning came early and Hodges, Len & John were ready to ride by 6:45 am. I waved good-bye and went back to my morning coffee. They rode the 100 mile event. I headed out about 8:45 am and rode into a slight breeze toward the wind farms. I pushed the pace and start to roll by groups of riders. The downwind turn south provided lots of speed as I continued to pass many riders. The 50 and 100 mile routes reconnected for many miles. At the turn of Thousand Palm Canyon Road the 50 mile route turned right and we hit a long descent that allowed speeds of 33 mph for a extended period of time. I had ridden solo until this point but hit the wheel of a fast guy that made this section even more enjoyable. The final 4 miles back into Palm Springs I met up with a fast group of riders that maintained 22+ mph so I just stayed with the group and mistakenly attacked a few times when guys went out hard. I hit the finish of 54 miles averaging 19 mph and then rolled back through downtown to our house; a total of about 60 miles for the day. Pool and beer time for me.

Mike, Len and John rode the full 100 miles and then made it back to the house a couple of hours later. We relaxed and then went out to dinner at the Ace Hotel. It was Valentine’s Day and reservations were impossible to get in town. This hip, artsy hotel had a nice restaurant. We enjoyed a good meal and then strolled through downtown Palm Springs before heading back to watch more of the Lance movie.

In the morning Hodges wanted us to leave by 7am. I protested and demanded I have my morning coffee and enjoy a bit more of the day. He still managed to pressure to get all of us packed and off by 7:30 am. We had decided to drive back the same route we had ridden and Mike knew of a French bakery in Palm Desert for breakfast. We enjoyed a nice feast at Clementine Marketplace before driving up highway 74. It would be much more scary to ride up that curvy narrow road then our fast descent we had done two days before. We stopped to see the great views and drove toward home. Hodges had to make a stop at Dudley’s for pie. We got back to Spring Meadow about noon. Congrats to Mike and Len for riding all the miles. Congrats to John for riding the 100 mile event on Sat and thanks to Mary Beth and Shelley for all their logistical support. It was another fun adventure. Attached is a link to some photos from the weekend.

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6117738967937515777?authkey=COi28bTEhsLu5QE

HVR, Bandy, 78, Summit and Jesmond Dene Loop-3 Feb 2015

by Rob Verfurth

Riders: Sheehan, Tony, Bob P, Len, Todd and Rob

It was another beautiful San Diego morning as I pedaled over to meet Bob P in 4S and then onto the group meeting spot–the start of HVR. We met up with Tony, Todd and Len while we waited for Sheehan to show. He came just as I was about to call him. Dave & Tony seemed to know where we were heading so everyone pedaled off along HVR with Bob, Sheehan & Todd out front. At the climb Todd and Bob took off while the rest of us pedaled up to regroup at the corner of Bandy. I was still feeling tried but managed to hold off Len to the corner with Tony just behind. Tony is riding super strong, especially given his treatment regiment. he is a warrier.

I sped out from the regroup to fly down Bandy Canyon. Right before the first curve Tony flew by me but I hung close. We obeyed the yellow line and sped down the hill with others in hot pursuit. Sheehan & Todd came first with Bob and Len closing the gap as we sped along Bandy Road. It is so green everywhere still from the early rains, some gorgeous views were had. We rolled to the end of Bandy and turned left onto Hwy 78. Sheehan & Bob took most of the pulls with Todd helping too. I was hanging onto the back watching the mesmerizing weave of Len. We took the turn to Old Milky Way and made our way toward Summit.

Sheehan told Todd and Bob that the climb was only 0.7 miles so those guys took off with the rest of us fading, but giving chase. Tony and I swept with me even farther back. The climb is about 1.5 miles so Bob and Todd were none too pleased my the time I rolled to the top. Sheehan was sure I was having a medical issue and suggested a full physical. I was just tired. We cruised down the curves of Summit and back across 78, eventually making our way to Citrus. We rode to El Norte Parkway and looped onto Ash back towards Broadway and to Jesmond Dene.

Bob led out a strong pace up the hill. I hid on his wheel for the first half of the climb and then hit the accelerator. I gapped the guys but it was hurting. On the last pitch climb Sheehan closed the gap and passed me. I still set a PR for the full Jesmond Dene segment, a road I have ridden a dozen times. I still had a bit left! We regrouped and went south towards Escondido on City Center Parkway and made our way to Grand Ave and our planned coffee break at A Delight of France. Sheehan had called ahead to make sure some Almond Croissants were left. This is a very cozy place with a nice porch to watch the folks stroll by as we enjoyed the coffee and especially the almond croissants. They were delicious. We spent a good amount of time relaxing and enjoying the late morning.

We eventually had to get back on our bikes and pedaled back towards Bear Valley and the mall. We bid adieu to Tony and rolled across the the Lake Hodges Pedestrian bridge where Sheehan & len went left while Bob, Todd and I went right. Todd left us as we climbed towards RB Road. Bob turned towards his home while I was finally able to get into pootle mode and ride behind Black Mountain and home; 60 miles and 3,600 of elevation. Great fun. I have attached a few photos and attempted to attach a url to see the photos in picasa, ala Oleg. Might not work, still learning.

https://plus.google.com/117626389252909371681/posts/A5VVUfp97Pv

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6113996639855041457?authkey=CJ-w68zGyIrBQw

HVR, Bandy, etc–Deja Vu–10 Feb 2015

Riders: Tony, KC Butler & Rob

The usual suspects for the Skive Rides were bailing left and right. Sheehan had a meeting, Hodges cancelled that morning, Jeff L had a doc appt and Bob P could not spend the time. I was not motivated to ride over alone so I drove to the trail parking right by the start of HVR. Tony got there just as I drove up. KC Butler was waiting at the corner. KC is the long time organizer of the Tour de Poway and has ridden with us a number of times. This was his first full Skive ride. Despite my many suggestions of dirt and steep routes, Tony convinced us to do the same route as the week before–Deja Vu. It was a cool but sunny day and another great morning to be on a bike.

We pedaled over the HVR…you know the rest–same as above…..

I texted Hodges our time estimate of getting to A Delight of France, Jeff L too. KC flatted along Summit so I had time to give them the heads up. KC bought us coffee and an almond croissant to split, again it was delicious. Hodges showed and he bought another croissant. I will need to ride more to burn off all these croissants! We again enjoyed sitting on the porch and relaxing in the early afternoon. We eventually left Hodges at the cafe and rode the same route as above. We waved good-bye to Tony and rode over the pedestrian bridge. I rolled to my car while KC kept going south on Pomerado. It was only a 38 mile, 2,000 foot ride but loads of fun. I have again tried to share some photos via a link. If that fails, I will ask Oleg for more training.

https://plus.google.com/photos/117626389252909371681/albums/6115190641904251969?authkey=CO_nja3xu_-YjwE

Thursday Jan 29- Irish Skive

by Dave Sheehan

Tony O’Gorman and David O’Sheehan met for a weekday skive on Thursday two weeks ago. The morning air was cool as we headed out on what is becoming a standard skive loop. We mounted lower HVR and made quick work of the hairpins to get to Bandy. Down Bandy I followed Tony as he indicated he was going to take it easy on the descent – not true. We took it easy out Bandy and stopped at the local farm for Tony to get some work in on one of the tractors (see attached picture). His skills earned him the irishhillbilly award. Across 78 we turned left on Milky Way and then zigged over to summit and the short climb up summit. We worked our way over to citrus with some backroad exploring and Tony filling me in on his current work which will ultimately find its way into some performance vehicles- very cool. El Norte to Broadway to Jesmond Dene and then back to Downtown Escondido where we stopped for the best almond croissants ever at the Delight of France café in Escondido. They were the best ever because they were the last two. I notched 45 miles, 2300 feet of climbing and some great calories. Tony was the same plus he cut some hay. A great day to be a Descender – join us next time.

Out.

David Sheehan

Partner

Cloudbreak Capital

We had a total of 17 descenders on our ride yesterday. 18 if you count Denise who we briefly crossed paths with, as she was riding in the opposite direction by lake Hodges.We had a growing european representation with Hermann bringing along three new riders along, Deke and two Stephanes (convenient, even though a bit confusing at times).
So now we had a brit, two frenchmen, a germans, an austrian, an irishman and a ukrainian – 7 euro riders – and thats even without Rick B., Jeff S. or Bryan T.!
The pace was steady and hard at times but without much surging. Roads were a bit wet around RSF, and there was even a threat of a drizzle as we rolled through Del Dios but it quickly passed. At the Shell stop by Lake Hodges some riders decided not to continue towards HVR, while Hodges lead a euro-expedition along the dirt, through Mule section, while the rest of us rode the normal route. We still had more than a dozen riders, majority europeans, along HVR and Mussey grade. Larry cleverly outpursuited everyone down Mussey – he was also the fastest up HVR. They repaved some lower sections of Mussey by the way, making it a much less dicey descend.

We split off and scattered after completing Mussey out-and-back, with some riders going back via HVR, some stopping for drinks and food at the 67 market. The sun was out and it was a nice day on a bike.

You should have come!
Photos: https://picasaweb.google.com/109410926478548321411/20150131?authkey=Gv1sRgCLyRyoqI2tWOeA

A few quick announcements:
1. Guido, Hodges, Ernst, Rick B. and I went to watch Spy movies (there were actually 4 short movies shown – we spotted Larry and Claus a few times making cameos during BWR documentary). Very inspiring and well-produced, and I especially enjoyed Q&A with Adam Bickett, who talked about his RAW ride in 2014 where he finished 2nd and his preparation for RAAM later this year. Mind-blowing details!
2. Registration for BWR will open this coming Tuesday, so be quick and alert and it may fill up within hours, if not minutes, this year. There is also a shorter version of BWR course, called Belgian Wafer Ride, but come on – we gotta do the full Waffle version.
3. Photo contest guesses are due tonight. It may be difficult for some (despite this being one of the most recent photos I have featured – hint!), but I already got two correct answers, and some people think this one is an easy one! Keep working on it while watching Super Bowl.
4. We ride Montezuma next weekend – it will be Legendary!
Oleg.

Descenders:

We had Descenders all over SD County today, per Strava, with a few of us riding our Dirt Bikes.

Myself, Bryan Jones, Rob, Jeff Cresap and John gathered at the Pomerado Road/RB Road intersection at 8:00am.

The plan evolved into riding along Lake Hodges on the upper trail, followed by the dirt segment along Del Dios (opposite direction of the ’14 BWR route), down to unmamed river crossing, on to the Lusardi Trail, and ending the dirt ride at Black Mountain Park. Sounds so easy!

John hit the road at Lake Hodges leaving me Rob, Bryan and Cresap to hit the dirt. This was Cresap’s second "new" trail dirt ride this week and he’s enjoying these new and exciting routes, much better than this "millions of rides on the same old dirt PQ" trails muttered.

Bryan is enjoying this new Intense Hard Trail 29er. Rob was on his sick black carbon Santa Cruz 29er, promptly bought right after my 50th Birthday ride (which Rob proclaimed "My (15 year old) 26er mountain bike is perfectly fine for my riding," then he rode my 29er and it was all over! Rob’s bike was eerily clean at the start of the ride, I’m not sure it’s ever been ridden in the dirt ’till today. Of course his Cervelo road bike has lots and lots of dirt miles…

The route is flat by SD standards. Fast and "flowing" is how I call this circular route. Still, I ended up with 31 miles and 2,800 feet of climbing so not really flat.

No soils samples (inside joke) were taken by any of us, and even finished around 11:00 am so a good dirt ride. SD has both amazing road and dirt bike riding opportunities, in basically the same part of town. Very unique. Ideal "winter" weather as well.

Enjoy the pics, and even a quick vid of me and Bryan climbing the cook switches.

You should have come!

Descenders,
(reminder to submit your guesses to Photo Contest #4 by tonight!)

we had 16 riders on our Oceanside Ride yesterday.

It was 39F when Larry and I met at Rose Canyon but it warmed up quickly – in an hour or so it was in 60ies or even 70ies, and by the end of the day it was 80+F on the coast.
It was quite a windy day – on the 56 bike path we had to dodge giant tumbleweeds (see photo below from Paul Pruschki) – I never saw that before. Larry and I also had to dodge about a thousand Carmel Valley 5K runners that took over the bike path. So when we met the group we took detour via Carmel Valley Road and Del Mar Heights.

I think we should use this route from now on – 56 bike path is one of the most dodgy, ridiculously dangerous segments we ride on, especially when we do it as a group of a dozen or more, barreling down at 20+mph – with runners, walkers, strollers with babies, dogs on extendable leashes across the entire path – most obliviously wearing headphones (sometimes even dogs and babies!).

No matter how hard we try, we can’t keep our speed under 16mph on a narrow path, so we might as well go to the safer bike lane while sharing the road with the cars.

Speaking of cars, the drivers were extra aggressive yesterday. There was an SUV driver that tried to buzz us (deliberately, I am sure) as we approached Carlsbad – we caught him at the light and let him know how little we appreciate that style of driving, and there was a super-irate and erratic Hyundai road-raging driver in Oceanside that kept hitting the brakes as we were riding right behind him and turning without signaling, and when he was called out on this behavior, he pulled over and got out of the car to yell some obscenities at us – luckily we ended up going our separate ways without any incident.

The pace was mostly steady, without any major surges. The only exception was the sprint in the Oceanside, which was contested between Larry and Sheehan, but Sheehan may have gone a bit too early and Larry out-pursuited him.

We lost a few riders on the way to Oceanside and then a few more on the way back. Rob got an unfortunate flat in RSF – we hoped he would catch up as we did Stud Loop but he and Hodges appear to miss us by a few minutes. We parted ways as we cllimbed 3 witches. I had a bell on my bike and kept ringing it as we passed numerous cyclists and runners on the bike path and 101, and it made us hungry for ice cream. So Larry and I stopped at 7-11 at Del Mar to get some ice cream. Nice!

I had 100 miles by the time I got home – not much climbing but a lot of riding into the wind (or with a tailwind), which always makes for a nice workout.

You should have come!

(don’t forget, the Photo Contest!)
Some photos attached, more here: https://plus.google.com/photos/109410926478548321411/albums/6108032100713279185?authkey=CNe9ie-cgr_NgwE
Oleg.

–

Descenders, On Saturday we met at my house for an easy Coronado ride. We had 17 riders. When we got to the bike path by marine the group stretched into a long line and we somehow managed to lose Len, Bernie and Jeff L. when they stopped to help Bernie fix a flat – they caught us by the ferry. In the future we should perhaps take the road shoulder when we get to Coronado strand as the bike path is much more dangerous.

After an obligatory stop at Little Italy’s Cafe Italia for espressos/capuccinos and cannoli, we did a short (and very brisk) loop around Fiesta. You should have come!

on Sunday we met in Clairemont Core Power for Yoga, organized by Erika. We had 13 descenders (including many spouses!). Total class was 14 people, so had we not come, it would be just 1 person yoga class. Class included Voris, Guido, Rob, Ernst, Jeff and Eileen, Sheehan and many spouses. Apparently Jeff and Eileen have mad yoga skills, while Guido and Sheehan secretly practice time to time – but this was first for many of us, myself included. I don’t know about others, but I have suffered and sweated like I have never done before – not even on 6-hour bike rides. My muscles are still sore! Most of us went for lunch afterwards, which was very enjoyable.

On Tuesday Rob, Ernst, Guido and I did a follow-up yoga session in Poway (by candle light, very romantic!). More pain and suffering.

Wednesday Sheehan, Hodges, Rob, Len, Jeff L. and myself did a skive ride. The course sections were called out as we were riding, and most of the time most of us had no idea where we were or we were going. At a couple of moments NONE of us knew where we are or where we are heading! Fun times.
We did Artesian descent (Rob and I were nearly taken out by a deer that jumped across the road in one long leap, right in front of us – similar to the video Tony sent out), a BWR shortcut from RSF to Elfin Forest (aka girls in bikinis location, for those of you who did BWR-2014), and brutal, sadistic (almost yoga sadistic – but not quite) Crestwind connection to San Marcos, which features 30+% gradients (I saw 36% at some point). For various reasons I didn’t bring my wifli 32-tooth cassette, so I was riding standard 39 and 27t in the back, zigzagging most of the way uphill. We looped back via Del Dios, to RSF where we had coffee like civilized people.

Sat Coronado Ride Photos:
https://picasaweb.google.com/109410926478548321411/20150117?authkey=Gv1sRgCJOsvs_J-r_N2AE

Wed Skive ride Photos :
https://picasaweb.google.com/109410926478548321411/20150121?authkey=Gv1sRgCMjmk_aR1LyXAw

No Yoga photos, even though I think Voris snapped one.

Wed Team Skive Ride:

Saturday Coronado Ride: