After a long, hard week I'd like to take a moment to share with you a few thoughts. Along with my own personal thoughts, I'd like to pass along some words of advice I received from teachers and family.
Advice #1) Always look out for number 1.
That number one is yourself if you were wondering. My grandpa told me this tonight. Grandpa's smart, I should hang around him more often. He's into that fairness game, which is awesome in a basic sense. (Like for example: How to split a candy bar the fair way? Have one kid split it, the other kid choose which side he wants.) I have felt like I haven't been looking out for my best interest sometimes lately, accepting offers to things that I should have said straight up "no" to. I'm working on that, and so far so good. It's important to not be selfish, that's the one thing grandpa pointed out to me (in respect to always looking out for #1).
Advice #2) Genius is simplicity. Follow bliss, your challenge is to be the best.
This advice was given to me by my beloved Economics teacher. He was explaining that it's not all about the education you get, the high paying job you attain, but it's about following what you love. And once you find what you love, it is your challenge to be the best. It's pretty simple once you think of it. Take any path and trace it all the way to "being the best", they've got it made! Artists, cyclists, engineers, optometrists, teachers, musicians, the list goes on. If people are calling you crazy, you're on to something. That's something my sociology teacher taught me, and the more I think about it it's true.. I've been called crazy before, so maybe I'm on the right track.
I don't think it's about "fitting in" to the mold of society, but pursuing what you find of interest. Then make that work for you. It's pretty mind blowing once you think about it. Say for example, you work backwards.. imagine seeing your life unfold (or close in this sense), seeing where you ended up and then how you got there. I'd imagine there are plenty of "life changes" along the way.. For example, getting a job you hate.. well sooner or later you realize that there are more interesting things out there, more suited to your lifestyle and interests. Hopefully with that change, you begin to pursue being the best at whatever it is and somehow ultimately give back to others through your works. (Don't be selfish. Look out for yourself, but don't be selfish). If I love cycling, then I should pursue being the best.. Seems pretty simple. I've heard the saying "if you do what you love, you'll never work a day in your life". (or something to that effect).
I'm getting off track, but let me make my point clear. In one way or another, you should always be doing what you love all while looking out for your own best interest. With that said, I'm looking forward to the next "stage" of my life where I get to pursue what I love and see where I take myself in life.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Thoughts.. about cycling, life and WRESTLING
Today, Wednesday, has been a great day. It's mid week, but I feel surprisingly great considering the loads of school and other work related tasks on my plate. I'm pumped for this weekend's racing. TWO chances to have some fun and stomp some pedals down in Sac. From what I recall, the Golden State Series was one of THE funnest races I've done. It was my first P/1/2/3 race (which was a doozy!). I remember the circuit race being so long (in length and time), as well as the left right swooping turns of the course, that I felt like I was on a roller coaster. (almost getting a sick sensation 3/4 of the way through the race). I am super pumped to return to that course with some confidence, having raced P/1/2 this season (getting the hang of things now). No broken cleats this time around, and I've got my carbon wheels ready for action and I feel quite fit right now, both mentally and physically.
I just watched Chris Horner smash the field as he won the mountain top finish to Stage 4 of the Tour of California. I saw him alongside Levi and Lance in the 2009 Nevada City Classic. His nickname is "Smiley".
I could go on about the coaches, but first off, Butch is crazy. In a good way.. I get a good laugh when I think of him and all the wrestling tournaments and practices we've been through. Glen, Glen's the man because he always loved teaching the wizzer to me (idk to this day if it's wizard or wizzer), And Tamori is awesome in every way. He's like Yoda.. that explains everything. Oh, and he had the same shoes as I did, that's bonus points in my book. He would own Randall in demonstrations, SO funny, and he even knew it. (If any of you knew his laugh, that evil laugh when he'd put the hurt on someone and make it look so easy).
Man oh man, those were the days. Wrestling, sure taught me a lot. Everything in life is easier once you've done wrestling. Nothing has taught me to appreciate food and clean, crisp cool air than wrestling and wrestling practices.. I always was envious of the basketball players with their air conditioned gyms, when we'd walk in to get a drink of water it would be like "AHHHHHHHH, FRESH AIR!!" Then now that I cycle, I've realized there's a pain to every sport. In cycling, it's the "pain cave", and that's a place I've entered many times in the past 3 years of racing.
I just watched Chris Horner smash the field as he won the mountain top finish to Stage 4 of the Tour of California. I saw him alongside Levi and Lance in the 2009 Nevada City Classic. His nickname is "Smiley".
As for the non-cycling part of my life, I'd have to say I am pretty darn happy with things. I have a great girlfriend that's fun to hangout with and spend time together, and I really appreciate that. I've got great friends, including one of my good friends who I in fact just helped "hook up" his own blogging profile! (heck yes!) I think it's totally awesome that more people are blogging. It's really awesome to hear from other people and see what's going on in their life and find out what's new. Here's Tyler's blog if you're interested in reading for yourself, and actually that first post he wrote about was about our friendship! (http://diamondtyler34.blogspot.com/2011/05/true-friendship.html?showComment=1305770261951#c5388639330362246917)
I feel like a star or something, man he gave me so many props but I've got to say he deserves just as many himself. A fine athlete, dedicated to the sport of wrestling. An all around great person, lots of class. Since he brought up the "old school" days of wrestling, I'll add to it saying that those days were great. Quite a life change when I began wrestling. It was right in that time of my life when I discovered the "not-so popular" sports such as wrestling, cycling, cross country, etc. The sports that aren't mainstream like football, basketball, baseball.. Who knew that my very own grandpa was a wrestling legend himself! It was quite a great deal because I could learn wrestling moves at practice, then go to grandpa's and have him teach me more stuff and reinforce those moves that I had just learned.
I'll never forget him showing me moves in his living room (which is full of antiques), and he's bumping me around, slapping my hands and what not, teaching me the "wrestling" stuff that I would soon learn more of. I will admit, I was never a real aggressive kid back in 8th grade, and most of my wrestling was technical (and defensive). I was not the one to "brute force" things or be the one doing the double leg take downs. It was probably my junior/senior year that I actually started doing take downs. Whatever, that's all in the past, but my point is.. I learned a lot from wrestling over the years. At first I was quite shocked with the whole "wrestling" thing, yet addicted at the same time to the winning aspect. That ability to beat someone up on the mat and know that you're better than your opponent. I should dig up some journal entry that I wrote stating "why do I wrestle". Because there were times when I asked myself why the heck I was wrestling. I wasn't one of those kids who had been doing it since age 5, who's parents were the "wrestling type", who wore the rattler sweatshirts day in and day out supporting their love for the support.
Now when I look back at wrestling, a few things come to mind. Randall, Tyler and Lawrence. And of course, Butch, Glen and Tamori.
Randall pops into my head because he was the crazy squirrely-ass kid who you'd never trust. I never found out his "nice" side. I knew his bouncing-off-the-wall side, the side that loved to whoop on kids and make fun of them. He was SO small yet so good! That was very frustrating. He would always win no matter what, and I thought being paired up with him was a good thing because I was bigger, but he'd always whoop on me. He was a classic example of the training parter you DON'T want. My grandpa taught me that in wrestling, you're only as good as the partner you train with. Randall was the type that would NEVER let you get a move in. And that may contribute to the fact I hardly perfected ANY of the moves my first year of wrestling.
Tyler on the other hand, Tyler was just good. He had talent. He was strong too. I remember wrestling him in practices my first year. He was the first kid to give me battle wounds. Busted lips, bloody noses, bit tounges, bruised eyes, the works. I started realizing "this is what wrestling is, you get jacked up!" Sooner or later I learned how to return the favor (to other wrestlers initially), giving people bloody noses, etc. I think I broke Randall's nose more than once, and I do remember elbowing someone in the face once when I was doing a standup (the right way). Tyler taught me moves, and he always went 75% on me so I could work my moves and gain some confidence. I never quite had the talent to match his skills in live wrestling (6 minute man, etc), but I sure got the feel for getting my limits tested. If it weren't for Tyler, I wouldn't have been half as good as I was in high school. Getting my butt kicked day in and day out by him was sure somethin else. At first I used to try to line up a few people away from him in the weight line, but sooner or later coaches stuck us together and there was no fighting it, I had to get beat up by him and learn from him, but it was a good thing when I look back on it.
Lawrence, now Lawrence is quite a character. We go back way back too.. See the funny thing is, me and Lawrence were on the same level. We BOTH got cut from the basketball team 8th grade, and we both found our love for wrestling. He did wrestling in high school, and I always tried to partner up with him because I was better so I could boost my confidence by practicing with him. Plus I knew that he wouldn't try to kill me, so it was all good. I could do my double leg take downs without feeling like I was getting judged every time. etc,.. Lawrence was and still is one of my best homies in the sport, we've had plenty of good times together, lots of laughs. The bummer was, he was one of those kids that had to choose work vs. sports. See, I've never faced that problem before. But for Lawrence, it was reality. He got the job at McDonalds, and his hours wouldn't let him wrestle. We lost him for the last two years, however he got into Jiu Jitsu, so his love for martial arts (kicking people's butts) is still there. Glad to see that. He was the one who'd show/practice wrestling moves on me in class. I think Tyler and Lawrence both got a kick out of my grandpa and his "old school-ness". Calling people donkeys or jackasses or shit hooks, you name it. Too funny, he always taught us to control the hands (and man he can grab your hands HARD let me tell you). It's like grandpa doesn't sense his level of power so he goes all out and he doesn't realize he's hurting you, so every time he'd do a demonstration he'd call over Randall or Lawrence and Randall would run off.
I could go on about the coaches, but first off, Butch is crazy. In a good way.. I get a good laugh when I think of him and all the wrestling tournaments and practices we've been through. Glen, Glen's the man because he always loved teaching the wizzer to me (idk to this day if it's wizard or wizzer), And Tamori is awesome in every way. He's like Yoda.. that explains everything. Oh, and he had the same shoes as I did, that's bonus points in my book. He would own Randall in demonstrations, SO funny, and he even knew it. (If any of you knew his laugh, that evil laugh when he'd put the hurt on someone and make it look so easy).
Man oh man, those were the days. Wrestling, sure taught me a lot. Everything in life is easier once you've done wrestling. Nothing has taught me to appreciate food and clean, crisp cool air than wrestling and wrestling practices.. I always was envious of the basketball players with their air conditioned gyms, when we'd walk in to get a drink of water it would be like "AHHHHHHHH, FRESH AIR!!" Then now that I cycle, I've realized there's a pain to every sport. In cycling, it's the "pain cave", and that's a place I've entered many times in the past 3 years of racing.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Pure Happiness
This is the first time I've watched a bike race and had that "connection". A professional cycling event is currently in California, and today is the third stage, heading South from Auburn to Modesto. I don't have much time these days to watch professional sporting events on T.V. or the computer. Things such as baseball, basketball (oh and apparently it's the playoffs or something), football, and even cycling for that matter. Oh, the Giro's going on too, but for me I'm more focused on that History packet due tomorrow, or when's the next time I'll have the chance to ride my bike. Tonight my family went down to the folks house to watch an hour of the Tour. Throughout today I saw Facebook status updates about the stage, and I also showed Ashley some pictures to explain more the "significance" of this race.
On a more personal note, I explained to her that I've raced with some of the teams competing in the Tour of California! It's pretty unreal to think that I've had the chance to compete alongside (well, not quite alongside, more like behind/in the back) of these domestic professional athletes. Teams like Bissell, Kelley Health Benefits, and team Jelly Belly! I get to see these athletes in races from time to time, and it's really exciting to see them along side the professionals that have traveled from Europe to take part in the Tour of California. It's quite unreal, and this is the first time I have "connected" with the whole "professional cycling" scene, watching it on T.V. It's quite motivating, and it's really cool to feel like "hey, I can picture myself in that"..
Years before it used to be the "oh, if I had that bike, oh, if I had those cool wheels, or if I had that kind of cool jersey, etc" I mean for real, I've got nearly everything they do if we're looking at it from a material standpoint. I've got blingin' carbon fiber wheels, a rad Felt AR 4, SWEET team gear and an awesome team. It's really awesome to have the chance to compete in the P/1/2 level alongside some of the pros that also compete in larger races just like the Tour of California.
Really really cool if you ask me, I'm super stoked to race my bike, super stoked to watch these folks race their bikes. It's a great moment for me in the cycling world of things.. (:
(School, finals? ehh, no biggy. I've got cycling to keep me sane).
On a more personal note, I explained to her that I've raced with some of the teams competing in the Tour of California! It's pretty unreal to think that I've had the chance to compete alongside (well, not quite alongside, more like behind/in the back) of these domestic professional athletes. Teams like Bissell, Kelley Health Benefits, and team Jelly Belly! I get to see these athletes in races from time to time, and it's really exciting to see them along side the professionals that have traveled from Europe to take part in the Tour of California. It's quite unreal, and this is the first time I have "connected" with the whole "professional cycling" scene, watching it on T.V. It's quite motivating, and it's really cool to feel like "hey, I can picture myself in that"..
Years before it used to be the "oh, if I had that bike, oh, if I had those cool wheels, or if I had that kind of cool jersey, etc" I mean for real, I've got nearly everything they do if we're looking at it from a material standpoint. I've got blingin' carbon fiber wheels, a rad Felt AR 4, SWEET team gear and an awesome team. It's really awesome to have the chance to compete in the P/1/2 level alongside some of the pros that also compete in larger races just like the Tour of California.
Really really cool if you ask me, I'm super stoked to race my bike, super stoked to watch these folks race their bikes. It's a great moment for me in the cycling world of things.. (:
(School, finals? ehh, no biggy. I've got cycling to keep me sane).
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Respect the Name.
Despite having homework to do, something has been on my mind for the past two days. Someone wrongly created a Facebook profile page under the name of a deceased individual, who was a friend to many in Oroville. What angers me the most is the fact that someone had the nerve to use not only someone's name, but the name of someone who's passed away? One who can't "defend" his name. Honestly, it seems a bit low. This person has absolutely no respect for the person's name at all, let alone the person and family, friends and the community. Furthermore, the "profile" was maliciously created, seemingly intended to attack friends of this deceased individual. Everything down to the wall posts, favorite quotes, religious views and favorite movies.
My first reaction was anger, and that's probably the reaction this individual was going for. Great, you're getting what you wanted whoever you are. Then I started to think about this whole situation, and I'm praying to God that this person thinks twice about this and takes responsibility for his/her actions and gets rid of the profile. One should settle "issues" with others NOT by creating fake profiles. I really am praying for this person's safety. I didn't even know the individual personally and I have to fight the urge to want to "get even" with this disrespectful individual. I know for a fact that if this person's name gets out, there will be more people than you can count headed straight for this person. It's natural to want justice, but how does one go about doing such a thing? It's hard to not "stoop to one's level" and fight online about this, but I most definitely want to see something be done. I have already reported the profile, yet who knows how long Facebook will take to remove the fake profile. Numerous REAL friends have already given this individual an ear full through wall posts.
This made me think for a second, trying to find some good out of this horrible situation. Going from a "powerless" feeling, not able to do a thing as someone hides behind the computer causing harm, abusing the name of a friend who's passed away. I realized that there are a whole lot of people who cared a lot about that individual, and not only that, but they care enough to stick up for him years after he's no longer with us. I sure want friends who are going to defend my name after I've passed away.
Furthermore, I realized something important. One will be remembered by what they've done in their life time, for who they are, for all the lives that person has impacted. This individual had one HUGE impact, and I can guarantee you that, and there's no way that one fake profile can "ruin" his name. There's no way, not possible. I do hope that Facebook removes the profile in a timely fashion, and that this person is rightly put in their place. I also hope that this person realizes what they've done and has a change of heart. There are many ways to settle disputes, but one should never stoop to a low like this, ever.
I couldn't agree more. -"To the person who made this profile, you obviously didn't know David at all. He was truely a great friend and a great guy. To really make this about any one especially someone that has passed away is awful...Have some respect please and grow up....this is still a big deal to alot of people who are still hurt by this!"
I'll be praying, praying that God changes the heart of whoever created the profile, that this whole thing gets resolved and we can all move on and live in peace, letting David's name be left alone, truly letting him rest in peace.
David, you've got a lot of friends, I want you to know that. Real, true friends.
-Anthony
My first reaction was anger, and that's probably the reaction this individual was going for. Great, you're getting what you wanted whoever you are. Then I started to think about this whole situation, and I'm praying to God that this person thinks twice about this and takes responsibility for his/her actions and gets rid of the profile. One should settle "issues" with others NOT by creating fake profiles. I really am praying for this person's safety. I didn't even know the individual personally and I have to fight the urge to want to "get even" with this disrespectful individual. I know for a fact that if this person's name gets out, there will be more people than you can count headed straight for this person. It's natural to want justice, but how does one go about doing such a thing? It's hard to not "stoop to one's level" and fight online about this, but I most definitely want to see something be done. I have already reported the profile, yet who knows how long Facebook will take to remove the fake profile. Numerous REAL friends have already given this individual an ear full through wall posts.
This made me think for a second, trying to find some good out of this horrible situation. Going from a "powerless" feeling, not able to do a thing as someone hides behind the computer causing harm, abusing the name of a friend who's passed away. I realized that there are a whole lot of people who cared a lot about that individual, and not only that, but they care enough to stick up for him years after he's no longer with us. I sure want friends who are going to defend my name after I've passed away.
Furthermore, I realized something important. One will be remembered by what they've done in their life time, for who they are, for all the lives that person has impacted. This individual had one HUGE impact, and I can guarantee you that, and there's no way that one fake profile can "ruin" his name. There's no way, not possible. I do hope that Facebook removes the profile in a timely fashion, and that this person is rightly put in their place. I also hope that this person realizes what they've done and has a change of heart. There are many ways to settle disputes, but one should never stoop to a low like this, ever.
I couldn't agree more. -"To the person who made this profile, you obviously didn't know David at all. He was truely a great friend and a great guy. To really make this about any one especially someone that has passed away is awful...Have some respect please and grow up....this is still a big deal to alot of people who are still hurt by this!"
I'll be praying, praying that God changes the heart of whoever created the profile, that this whole thing gets resolved and we can all move on and live in peace, letting David's name be left alone, truly letting him rest in peace.
David, you've got a lot of friends, I want you to know that. Real, true friends.
-Anthony
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
FFA
Today I had the chance to learn about FFA. FFA is "Future Farmers of America", and it's a club/organization for those who want to learn skills in agricultural related areas. (such as floral, forest, farming, machinery, livestock, etc). Cool stuff! I had no clue that so many people were involved in FFA, let alone that it existed! The Spring banquet ceremony was cool to see. Plenty of "friends" I knew there, though it may be safe to say it's the first time I've seen them in person (thanks to Facebook and the abilities to never truly meet someone and consider them your friend).
The meeting was informative and lengthy. The food was good, and it was nice to have the chance to find out about something that is as important to them as sports is to me in my life.
I couldn't help observe the camera guy do his thing. I found it interesting that he took candid pictures, despite the protest of many individuals. (the classic eating big hamburger shot, mouth stuffed with food). Had he not taken the pictures, there would be no opportunity to look back and say "see, this was our Spring Banquet!". Though, there's a fine line between pushing it and getting enough shots. Sometimes it's not so fun being the "camera guy".. haha I wouldn't want to be taking the photos he took tonight. Why? Because it's awkward, and it takes a lot of "social" skills to be able to mozy around and snap pictures of complete strangers without getting food chucked at you or get dirty looks like "dude, creep......." Though I give the girl who did the ceremony pictures props because she was efficient and did a fine job getting everyone lined up for their respective group shots after being recognised.
Talk about being antisocial, I left the first moment I could. I did make eye contact with a few peeps that I knew, and maybe I'll have real conversation with them some day in the future. It's weird being in a room full of people who sorta know you, and it feels like everyone's eyes are burning holes into the back of your head. Though, sometimes the best way to solve that problem is stare a couple of people down so they can feel the same way. Hah, just a thought. That or be oblivious to everyone else around you, I'd go for something in the middle.. Ignoring people to a certain degree, but reaching out in a kind enough way to "be social" enough to make the strangers happy.
I'd say my comfort zone of "reaching out" in a crowd like that is at most five feet. I'll block people out who are any further away. Though, five feet could always change, mabye if I knew a few more people spread out in the room, rays of hope.. people I could walk up to and chit chat with if needed. Ever wondered what your comfort zone is? If you're walking through campus, do you notice people across the way? etc.. Oh, speaking of that, if you're one who is staring at your phone while you walk, or listening to your iPod, you get a 0, a FAIL. A ZERO distance for reaching out to people. I want to smack people who walk around staring at their phone, or staring at their feet while they are walking with headphones jammed in their ears. I've actually attempted making eye contact with girls just to be friendly, like an acknowledgment that they exist.. if they saw me I'd smile and be courteous, right? Well, I kid you not, I walk past five girls on the way to my car after class, all five were staring at their phone and walked right by. They wouldn't know I was giving them the dirtiest look or the nicest smile in the world. LAME! Oh well, just saying.. it's hard to extend your comfort zone, but if it's at 0, you've got a lot of work to do!
All in all, FFA was educational and overall a good experience.
The meeting was informative and lengthy. The food was good, and it was nice to have the chance to find out about something that is as important to them as sports is to me in my life.
I couldn't help observe the camera guy do his thing. I found it interesting that he took candid pictures, despite the protest of many individuals. (the classic eating big hamburger shot, mouth stuffed with food). Had he not taken the pictures, there would be no opportunity to look back and say "see, this was our Spring Banquet!". Though, there's a fine line between pushing it and getting enough shots. Sometimes it's not so fun being the "camera guy".. haha I wouldn't want to be taking the photos he took tonight. Why? Because it's awkward, and it takes a lot of "social" skills to be able to mozy around and snap pictures of complete strangers without getting food chucked at you or get dirty looks like "dude, creep......." Though I give the girl who did the ceremony pictures props because she was efficient and did a fine job getting everyone lined up for their respective group shots after being recognised.
Talk about being antisocial, I left the first moment I could. I did make eye contact with a few peeps that I knew, and maybe I'll have real conversation with them some day in the future. It's weird being in a room full of people who sorta know you, and it feels like everyone's eyes are burning holes into the back of your head. Though, sometimes the best way to solve that problem is stare a couple of people down so they can feel the same way. Hah, just a thought. That or be oblivious to everyone else around you, I'd go for something in the middle.. Ignoring people to a certain degree, but reaching out in a kind enough way to "be social" enough to make the strangers happy.
I'd say my comfort zone of "reaching out" in a crowd like that is at most five feet. I'll block people out who are any further away. Though, five feet could always change, mabye if I knew a few more people spread out in the room, rays of hope.. people I could walk up to and chit chat with if needed. Ever wondered what your comfort zone is? If you're walking through campus, do you notice people across the way? etc.. Oh, speaking of that, if you're one who is staring at your phone while you walk, or listening to your iPod, you get a 0, a FAIL. A ZERO distance for reaching out to people. I want to smack people who walk around staring at their phone, or staring at their feet while they are walking with headphones jammed in their ears. I've actually attempted making eye contact with girls just to be friendly, like an acknowledgment that they exist.. if they saw me I'd smile and be courteous, right? Well, I kid you not, I walk past five girls on the way to my car after class, all five were staring at their phone and walked right by. They wouldn't know I was giving them the dirtiest look or the nicest smile in the world. LAME! Oh well, just saying.. it's hard to extend your comfort zone, but if it's at 0, you've got a lot of work to do!
All in all, FFA was educational and overall a good experience.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
2011 Tour of the Unknown Coast
Success.
I had such a great ride Saturday. I really had a great ride, and I'm stoked that everything lined up so well that I had the chance to ride 100 miles and get a solid second place finish! Everything went right. I fueled right, I had the right gears, I dressed right, I felt just awesome! And, most importantly, I was in the right mindset. Having ridden it three times before, I felt confident. I knew what to expect, and I visualized success.
How did it pan out? Well, Adventure's Edge hammered it hard for the first 40 miles, bringing us right to the base of Panther Gap. They did such a fine job we were left with less than forty riders in the "lead group". There was only one guy off the front, and I did a quick calculation in my head that he'd never last that long off the front. Well, I was wrong. I didn't realize that we wouldn't have enough numbers to reel him in, not to mention his "8 minute" or so gap by the time we had scaled the first mountain. We (a group of ehh, 4 riders) were the first to top Panther Gap (aside from the lone rider in Orange). I couldn't believe we were just riding away from everyone! I stuck on their wheel and we ascended like it was nothing! (quite a confidence boost for my climbing abilities).
That climb was over 6 miles, then I enjoyed some super fast descending with two non Adventure's Edge riders. We managed to get a small gap on them by the time we reached the bottom, however playing the numbers game, the gap was worthless and we ended up working together as a group of six, riding to the coast. All was well until one of the riders (a non Adventure's edge rider) bit the dust rounding a 15 mph corner (going 25+ mph). Ouch! down went Greg. Matt (the Starwars rider) was unaware of the crash and rode away from us. (lame!) Then we were down to Three Adventure's Edge riders plus me, riding to the coast.. We got huge support from the team car, that was legit! Food, water, you name it! They took all our unneeded gear as well as passed up bottles and gels.
We four made it to the base of "the wall" at mile 80, regrouping with Matt. We five could see the lone orange rider scaling the wall as we approached it. It was as if we could smell him, right there in front of us, calling out our names and challenging us to chase him down. Easier said then done! The legs started cramping right as I rounded the corner on the top of the wall. Not good! I could only pedal by standing up and using my whole body. (not good!) There went Matt with his mad ascending skills! Soon I was passed by an Adventure's Edge rider, then caught at the top of the wall by another. Sitting in 5th place, I drank and ate all that I had to get as much as I could in me to prevent further cramping. That helped, and I managed to pull away from the riders one by one as we climbed the steepest portion of the endless hills, the part where it is switch back after switch back leaving Cape Town. I managed to climb my way into third place, with only Matt and the leader ahead of me. The team car told me to kick it in gear now since I only had a couple miles left. I did, and I was so so close to catching Matt!
I made it past the barn, started the ascending/descending miles before the "wildcat" descent. All the sudden I see Matt in the middle of a curving descent trying to get his chain back on! Since I did not know how much further ahead the leader was, in addition to Matt's extra delay in chain fixing, I decided to book it and make my way to the finish! I got a solid second place, finishing only minutes behind the winner. Low 5's, not sure of my exact time. I was super stoked to have finished second in this Century. I never would have dreamed of finishing top 5! All I wanted to do that day was climb panther gap with the lead group, let alone place so well in the entire race! I can say that I've found my climbing legs after all, and the weight loss has helped!
All in all, a great race, and one that I'd come back to again! Not sure if I'll have Nationals next year with Davis, but if not I'd be back to compete in "California's Toughest Century!" Also known as "California's Roughest Century!"
A great day, a great weekend. I am very happy with my achievement. More races to come, I can't wait!
I had such a great ride Saturday. I really had a great ride, and I'm stoked that everything lined up so well that I had the chance to ride 100 miles and get a solid second place finish! Everything went right. I fueled right, I had the right gears, I dressed right, I felt just awesome! And, most importantly, I was in the right mindset. Having ridden it three times before, I felt confident. I knew what to expect, and I visualized success.
How did it pan out? Well, Adventure's Edge hammered it hard for the first 40 miles, bringing us right to the base of Panther Gap. They did such a fine job we were left with less than forty riders in the "lead group". There was only one guy off the front, and I did a quick calculation in my head that he'd never last that long off the front. Well, I was wrong. I didn't realize that we wouldn't have enough numbers to reel him in, not to mention his "8 minute" or so gap by the time we had scaled the first mountain. We (a group of ehh, 4 riders) were the first to top Panther Gap (aside from the lone rider in Orange). I couldn't believe we were just riding away from everyone! I stuck on their wheel and we ascended like it was nothing! (quite a confidence boost for my climbing abilities).
That climb was over 6 miles, then I enjoyed some super fast descending with two non Adventure's Edge riders. We managed to get a small gap on them by the time we reached the bottom, however playing the numbers game, the gap was worthless and we ended up working together as a group of six, riding to the coast. All was well until one of the riders (a non Adventure's edge rider) bit the dust rounding a 15 mph corner (going 25+ mph). Ouch! down went Greg. Matt (the Starwars rider) was unaware of the crash and rode away from us. (lame!) Then we were down to Three Adventure's Edge riders plus me, riding to the coast.. We got huge support from the team car, that was legit! Food, water, you name it! They took all our unneeded gear as well as passed up bottles and gels.
We four made it to the base of "the wall" at mile 80, regrouping with Matt. We five could see the lone orange rider scaling the wall as we approached it. It was as if we could smell him, right there in front of us, calling out our names and challenging us to chase him down. Easier said then done! The legs started cramping right as I rounded the corner on the top of the wall. Not good! I could only pedal by standing up and using my whole body. (not good!) There went Matt with his mad ascending skills! Soon I was passed by an Adventure's Edge rider, then caught at the top of the wall by another. Sitting in 5th place, I drank and ate all that I had to get as much as I could in me to prevent further cramping. That helped, and I managed to pull away from the riders one by one as we climbed the steepest portion of the endless hills, the part where it is switch back after switch back leaving Cape Town. I managed to climb my way into third place, with only Matt and the leader ahead of me. The team car told me to kick it in gear now since I only had a couple miles left. I did, and I was so so close to catching Matt!
More ascending after climbing up "the wall" at mile 80.
I made it past the barn, started the ascending/descending miles before the "wildcat" descent. All the sudden I see Matt in the middle of a curving descent trying to get his chain back on! Since I did not know how much further ahead the leader was, in addition to Matt's extra delay in chain fixing, I decided to book it and make my way to the finish! I got a solid second place, finishing only minutes behind the winner. Low 5's, not sure of my exact time. I was super stoked to have finished second in this Century. I never would have dreamed of finishing top 5! All I wanted to do that day was climb panther gap with the lead group, let alone place so well in the entire race! I can say that I've found my climbing legs after all, and the weight loss has helped!
All in all, a great race, and one that I'd come back to again! Not sure if I'll have Nationals next year with Davis, but if not I'd be back to compete in "California's Toughest Century!" Also known as "California's Roughest Century!"
A great day, a great weekend. I am very happy with my achievement. More races to come, I can't wait!
Tradeoffs
This house sitting has been a change. I'd say, it's definitely different being out of the house for a bit of time. I've realized the little things, those things you don't really think much about when you're living at home. Like, having all your clothes in a closet, or having your bike right there ready to ride. Or walking into the kitchen to munch on food.. Oh, and of course, FAMILY! On the bright side, I've got plenty of responsibility, and I've done a fine job thus far by not killing the dogs or letting the place burn down. :)
I mowed the lawn today, it looks good. Not the first time either. Haha, and I've finally found a rhythm for these dogs, when to put them out, how to calm them down and all that! Nice, quite nice. Less hectic, and I can quit wondering where each and every animal is all the time. I need to stop procrastinating so much, but it's hard to do when I'm not at home where I'm used to all my stuff there when I need it. Like homework, kinda hard to do when it's all in binders and books at home! I must edit photos and do homework this week, I must! That, and ride my bike lots.
Life's been different lately, but in a good way in my opinion. Aside from the house sitting, I've had the chance to ride a lot in the past few weeks, and I've met a really cool girl named Ashley. Also, I've gotten into dubstep and trance more, listening to podcasts on my ipod. However, I'm running out of room. iTunes has cursed me of course, so I'm in a jam there with half my music "not found" on iTunes.. Tomorrow should be a very productive day, that's the plan! The tradeoffs are not so bad, and I'm glad I've had the chance to do this (as well as get out for a change).
I mowed the lawn today, it looks good. Not the first time either. Haha, and I've finally found a rhythm for these dogs, when to put them out, how to calm them down and all that! Nice, quite nice. Less hectic, and I can quit wondering where each and every animal is all the time. I need to stop procrastinating so much, but it's hard to do when I'm not at home where I'm used to all my stuff there when I need it. Like homework, kinda hard to do when it's all in binders and books at home! I must edit photos and do homework this week, I must! That, and ride my bike lots.
Life's been different lately, but in a good way in my opinion. Aside from the house sitting, I've had the chance to ride a lot in the past few weeks, and I've met a really cool girl named Ashley. Also, I've gotten into dubstep and trance more, listening to podcasts on my ipod. However, I'm running out of room. iTunes has cursed me of course, so I'm in a jam there with half my music "not found" on iTunes.. Tomorrow should be a very productive day, that's the plan! The tradeoffs are not so bad, and I'm glad I've had the chance to do this (as well as get out for a change).
What Kind of Photos?
I've realized.. There's not much point in trying to be good at everything. It takes too much darn work! And time, which I don't have much of.. So why not focus on one aspect of the thing you love and get really good at it. And, odds are, if it's something you like enough you'll end up getting pretty good at it with relatively no pain. Portrait photos, not my thing. Nature photos, not my thing. Sports photos, MY THING.
Nothing excites me more than taking a perfect action shot. So, what does this mean? Take more sports photos, less other photos. (That is from a purely "photography" aspect). I love nature photos, and I love people, but trying to be "good" at it, ehh, takes too much work. I don't have the time to hike a mile into the wilderness to take that "awesome" nature shot. I've got a bike to ride! I don't have the desire to take photos for people I hardly know and have them stand in certain positions, asking them to smile.. counting to three, then editing the photos in addition to having already spent time taking them! I've got a bike to ride! I do have the desire to pick up the camera and snap a few shots of some sporting event I might be at or wouldn't mind watching.
It's enjoyable to do such a thing, and also know I'm hookin a brother up. Ya know what I'm saying? Plus, if the photo looks bad, I can always blame it on the subject. If you're not good at sports, that's not my fault! When I get the chance to take photos of skilled athletes, it's a great feeling to have captured that precise moment that expresses the beauty of the sport. Enough said, sports photography is something I truly enjoy. But, not as much as actually participating in sporting events (such as cycling).
Nothing excites me more than taking a perfect action shot. So, what does this mean? Take more sports photos, less other photos. (That is from a purely "photography" aspect). I love nature photos, and I love people, but trying to be "good" at it, ehh, takes too much work. I don't have the time to hike a mile into the wilderness to take that "awesome" nature shot. I've got a bike to ride! I don't have the desire to take photos for people I hardly know and have them stand in certain positions, asking them to smile.. counting to three, then editing the photos in addition to having already spent time taking them! I've got a bike to ride! I do have the desire to pick up the camera and snap a few shots of some sporting event I might be at or wouldn't mind watching.
It's enjoyable to do such a thing, and also know I'm hookin a brother up. Ya know what I'm saying? Plus, if the photo looks bad, I can always blame it on the subject. If you're not good at sports, that's not my fault! When I get the chance to take photos of skilled athletes, it's a great feeling to have captured that precise moment that expresses the beauty of the sport. Enough said, sports photography is something I truly enjoy. But, not as much as actually participating in sporting events (such as cycling).
Thursday, May 5, 2011
What type of guy are you?
Today I had the chance to talk to a friend, and somewhere in the conversation the topic drifted to "types" of guys and the relationships that often exist... Please note, this is entirely opinion, based on what she and I came up with.. What she came up with were the two types of categories of guys.
They were as follows: Type I: Guy who has lots of potential (is smart), but does not apply himself.. Type II: Guy who is really smart, motivated, competitive etc. It seems that these types of guys go for one of two types of girls. The really smart ones who they can hold intelligent conversations with and are "up to their standards", or they go for the "dumb" girls. Why? She said because that way the have something over them, they have that to their advantage. It's like they have at least their smarts to have an advantage against their female counterpart. I naturally defended that statement, saying that it's not a matter of "wanting an advantage" over the girl, but more or less a comfort zone being with a girl who doesn't have extremely high expectations (Contrasted to the smart, beautiful and somewhat intimidating girl who might have extremely high expectations). Being with that girl is a change to relax, take things down a notch and step away from the overwhelming life that they have.
For me, I said it's like this.. I don't want TWO check lists that I'm held accountable for. One's already enough, and if I can be with someone who's not holding me to their checklist, I naturally feel more comfortable. I'm not saying all the smart guys go for the dumb girls, it's just that the reason may be more than them wanting an "advantage" over the other. She also asked me, say the "smart" girl who was beautiful and all beat me in a competition, what would I do? I said I'd congratulate the person! Being smart is a great thing, I have no problem with a girl being smarter than me, but if they put me out of my comfort zone, that's just how it is.. just sayin.. haha It's just funny how people "choose" other people based on "compatibility".. "smart" or "dumb", as long as the person makes you happy and you're not being led down the wrong path, or not making the most of your life and God given talents then go for it, doesn't seem like there's any written rules when it comes to guys picking girls.. Now I'm just getting off topic.
Anyways, back to my day.. I had a long day at school, and I'm glad I had the change to chat with a friend after class. Speaking of class, class has seemed so dry lately, as if I'm not even gaining anything from my courses! What's up with that!? Maybe it's that time RIGHT before the end when most all the material's been taught already. it's that last 20% that takes all the work to get, when most people would be content kicking it into neutral and coasting in to finals week.. I've got about 3 weeks to go, I can't wait for school to be over!
Bike ride Saturday, who's pumped? I AM! Tour of the Unknown Coast, heck yes! It's going to be awesome! And a concert tonight at 7 P.M., It's FREE!! South Side Community Center, Free dessert following the performance!
They were as follows: Type I: Guy who has lots of potential (is smart), but does not apply himself.. Type II: Guy who is really smart, motivated, competitive etc. It seems that these types of guys go for one of two types of girls. The really smart ones who they can hold intelligent conversations with and are "up to their standards", or they go for the "dumb" girls. Why? She said because that way the have something over them, they have that to their advantage. It's like they have at least their smarts to have an advantage against their female counterpart. I naturally defended that statement, saying that it's not a matter of "wanting an advantage" over the girl, but more or less a comfort zone being with a girl who doesn't have extremely high expectations (Contrasted to the smart, beautiful and somewhat intimidating girl who might have extremely high expectations). Being with that girl is a change to relax, take things down a notch and step away from the overwhelming life that they have.
For me, I said it's like this.. I don't want TWO check lists that I'm held accountable for. One's already enough, and if I can be with someone who's not holding me to their checklist, I naturally feel more comfortable. I'm not saying all the smart guys go for the dumb girls, it's just that the reason may be more than them wanting an "advantage" over the other. She also asked me, say the "smart" girl who was beautiful and all beat me in a competition, what would I do? I said I'd congratulate the person! Being smart is a great thing, I have no problem with a girl being smarter than me, but if they put me out of my comfort zone, that's just how it is.. just sayin.. haha It's just funny how people "choose" other people based on "compatibility".. "smart" or "dumb", as long as the person makes you happy and you're not being led down the wrong path, or not making the most of your life and God given talents then go for it, doesn't seem like there's any written rules when it comes to guys picking girls.. Now I'm just getting off topic.
Anyways, back to my day.. I had a long day at school, and I'm glad I had the change to chat with a friend after class. Speaking of class, class has seemed so dry lately, as if I'm not even gaining anything from my courses! What's up with that!? Maybe it's that time RIGHT before the end when most all the material's been taught already. it's that last 20% that takes all the work to get, when most people would be content kicking it into neutral and coasting in to finals week.. I've got about 3 weeks to go, I can't wait for school to be over!
Bike ride Saturday, who's pumped? I AM! Tour of the Unknown Coast, heck yes! It's going to be awesome! And a concert tonight at 7 P.M., It's FREE!! South Side Community Center, Free dessert following the performance!
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Take That GAS!
With gas now at $4.17 a gallon, riding my bike is really starting to pay off. Let's do some simple math.. On my last credit card statement, (from 3/14-4/08) I spent $153.98 on gas.. And, a few numbers on my car's mileage..
With an average of 33.69 miles to the gallon, I'll show you how much I've been saving by simply riding my bike to Butte College on Mondays and Wednesdays.. Now, picture this. By riding to class 2 of the 4 days of my school week, I've cut my gas costs in half for academic related transportation. This is the route I drive to school every day. http://ridewithgps.com/users/27048/routes (the Butte, east entrance route) So, 27.9 miles, 4 times a week.. that's 111.6 miles a week. Cut that in half, you've got 55.8 miles in the car, and 55.8 on the bike. That's 1.65 gallons worth.. What is that in dollars you ask? At the current price, I'm saving $6.91 per week by riding my bike to class. WIN!!
Now, if I could just ride everywhere, all the time. (:
With an average of 33.69 miles to the gallon, I'll show you how much I've been saving by simply riding my bike to Butte College on Mondays and Wednesdays.. Now, picture this. By riding to class 2 of the 4 days of my school week, I've cut my gas costs in half for academic related transportation. This is the route I drive to school every day. http://ridewithgps.com/users/27048/routes (the Butte, east entrance route) So, 27.9 miles, 4 times a week.. that's 111.6 miles a week. Cut that in half, you've got 55.8 miles in the car, and 55.8 on the bike. That's 1.65 gallons worth.. What is that in dollars you ask? At the current price, I'm saving $6.91 per week by riding my bike to class. WIN!!
Now, if I could just ride everywhere, all the time. (:
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
May, the Beginning
The new month is hear, full of allergies, sun and school. I've been riding more. I love it. I just got some sweet new wheels, so awesome! I've had the chance to ride a lot more lately (naturally by setting the camera down more), and it's been a good choice. I'm ready to train more, work harder and start seeing the results pay off. Auburn was slightly disappointing, but aside from that I can be thankful to race and get in the workout/experience. School was a joke today. I only went to half my classes and the half that I did go to I felt like why am I even here. I rarely have these days, but for some reason today of all days I just really did not feel like I was gaining anything from my classes. I'm in great spirits right now and I plan to keep it that way! This weekend is the Tour of the Unknown Coast. I'm ready to tear it up! I can't wait to ride/race.. It's going to be completely mind blowing! Riding on the coast of CA up in Ferndale, it's like a mini vacation that includes the bike! Oh, and a little suffering (: but the scenery balances that out.. (Here's proof: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ipybLW5xedw ) That's the final part of the Tour of the Unknown coast (last 20 miles) Man, I'm pumped! Okay, I'm literally going to ride up some fatty hills right now. See ya later!
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