US Cup East - Race #1, Ocala, FL

This past weekend took me back to Ocala, FL, where I was just at a few weeks ago for spring training in a 6hr endurance race. However, the course and the bike were different on this trip. This trip was all business and no play, well at least the race, the hanging-out with the American Classic/Cycle Works clan was a different story! LOL The endurance race was on gears with the trail ran in the opposite direction and slightly longer.

We arrived early evening Friday with time to set-up before dark, then it was off for dinner with the Clan. Saturday morning we all moved to the race site, the Vortex section of the Santos trail system. This section uses a quarry area which houses some short steeps and rocks to provide some light technical trails for the race. Once camp was set-up I got registered, changed into my riding gear, and hit the trail for a pre-ride. As noted, the trail was all ridden in the opposite direction except for the first section of the Vortex. This created a much better flow for 2 of the more technical rock formations and kept me from even thinking about a possible foot-down scenario when clearing them. The course was easily 100% rideable, and super-fast! Once I completed 2 laps it was time to cool-off as the heat/humidity was generating added stress to the body as it tried to keep cool resulting in the need for heavy hydration for the remainder of the day. Then, once again, we were off to yet another buffet with the Clan for dinner and major laughs as we were all splitting our guts open and crying from laughing so hard!

Sunday morning brought some wind and clouds with a few peeks of sun. However, as we stood in que for our start the sky started to hint at rain with a few sprinkles, and before we knew it the bottom dropped-out! Luckily this only lasted for about 3mins and it was quickly gone. During this wait time I was trying to locate, and introduce myself to, my would be competition for the series. I found a couple and we had a short talk which included gear ratios chosen for the day. So far I had the largest gear ratio, 36/18, where the next largest was 34/18.

As always my plan was to take the hole-shot and set a steady pace. Off the line I re-calibrated my plan, quicker than Google maps re-routing, as one of the competitors exploded off the line with all of us in-tow. The start was a quick 40yds to a 90deg left-turn, then another 40yds to a 180deg right-turn with about 50yds into the fast sweeping single track. With each acceleration I found myself digging deep to keep on the leaders wheel. Just as I caught him we were braking for the next turn as it took me slightly longer to get up to speed with my bigger gear. I quickly thought to myself, "This is gonna be a great race with a show-down finish!" As we rounded the 2nd turn and accelerated from the 180 to the trail entrance I looked over and wisely let the leader take the lead into the trail. As we raced through the winding trail splitting trees and jumping logs I took a look back to see just 2 others from the field trying to bridge-up to us. I then yelled to the leader, "Hey, we have a small gap, but 2 are bridging-up, lets pick it up!" I received no response and we kept the pace which just held the gap consistent. Then it happened! As we approached a cut-through, placed by the promoter to shorten the trail, I saw the neon arrow indicating the 180 right-turn over to the return trail to the Vortex. I started to check my speed just as the leader yelled out, "F-word! Damn-it!" as he grabbed both brakes and commenced to slide sideways to a stop nearly going off-course. I immediately yelled out, "On your right!", and attacked! I put in a huge effort thinking that I could possibly end the race before it could even get started if this attack worked! I kept my head down and hammered out of every corner of the trail. Whenever the trail switch-backed I was looking across trying to get a time check. Each check appeared to produce a slightly larger gap. Then I was finally to the entrance of the Vortex....sweeeet!!

Entering the Vortex my excitement quickly began to subside as I then found myself running-up on the rear wheels of the Pro Women who had started just a minute ahead of us! I gave out a couple calls stating I was the SS race leader and what distance I was at hoping they would accommodate my quick pass. It worked! Just as we started the first ascent one went right and the other held left as I split the difference to the crest of the first up where there was a 180 right-turn. I yelled out a thanks to both and quickly hammered on up the remaining series of initial ascents. I then quickly, and as easily  caught and passed the remaining women within that first mile of the Vortex. This entire time I was trying to keep focused while my mind kept wondering/hoping that the others were getting bottled-up in the traffic.

Once through the women I started working on the 50+ CAT1 Masters. After a couple of riders I finally saw my friend Matt Jones. As we approached the next climb I yelled out, "Here I come, Matt!" I was then quickly on his wheel waiting for a response/acknowledgement from him as I announce I was ready to pass. Then all of a sudden I watched his rear wheel lose traction as he spun-out on a root...I quickly came to a stop so I wouldn't take us both down, but I couldn't get out of my pedal and over I went! It took me 3 attempts of twisting my left foot, as I struggled to get up, to get it to dis-engage from the pedal. I was then back on his wheel again announcing that I was once again ready to pass. He then finally helped me get by at the top of a climb and I hammered-on as I joked with him about the incident.

It wasn't but a mile later that I had my 2nd incident. As I was making a left-turn off one of the ridge lines the trail took us across some black rock which was found to be slick from the slight rain, actually, it was like hitting a patch of ice! As soon as my front tire hit it sent the bars into an immediate left dive as the wheel flew out to the right. Luckily I was at a slower pace and didn't go completely down as I caught myself with my hands, but for the 2nd time my left foot was pinned under the bike as I had difficulty un-clipping. I again regained control and hammered-on continuing to eat-up the ensuing lap traffic.

Lap 1 (~5.5mi) came to a quick end at just over 25mins. This was more than 3mins faster than my fastest pre-ride, and this had me feeling good! To top this, I looked back as I cleared the Start/Finish area to re-enter the single track and did not see any other riders in the area. I then quickly forced myself to put in another hard effort for the following 2 miles to the return of the Vortex for Lap 2. Then, just before the final run into the Vortex I saw what appeared to be the initial leader's jersey flashing through the trees across the switchbacks! Hammer-Hammer-Hammer, went through my head! I needed to hold them off until this point on the final lap at a minimum to ensure they would not be able to pass!

Once again I had success navigating the Vortex while blasting through lap traffic. Again, through the transition area, I saw no one in sight as I started my 3rd and final lap! I continued to keep the pressure on, but then I started to hear what sounded like someone gaining on me! How could this happen? I saw no one near when I took my last look prior to entering the Vortex! Were they pre-riding? This forced me to push even harder, as I was not going to be caught or passed before the finish line! Then it happened, he was on me on the last group of technical climbs of the Vortex. I yelled back, "What group are you from?" I grabbed a glimpse of his number plate as he responded...it read 500! This was a 19-29 CAT2 rider. I still continued to push-on not letting him get close enough to pass even though he was no threat. At the finish we chatted and I had told him he needed to CAT-up, as he was the first to catch me from behind in a race. He told me he was thinking about it. LOL

Then David Berger, the race promoter of Gone Riding, came over with his microphone. Dave: "Hey everyone, the Single Speed winner, Bart Wellisley, has just finished the race! Bart, could you tell us how the race went and how it compared to the 6hr you did a month ago on these same trails?" So with that, I offered a few highlights. Me: "The flow was much better in this direction creating very fast lap times. There was 1 specific rock formation that I cyclocrossed in the 6hr due to having to foot-dab in my pre-ride, but in this direction it was a breeze." Dave: "Would you like to give a shout to your sponsors?" Me: Sure! I'd like to thank Spooky Bikes (pause for breath), Rudy Project (another breath), and GU Energy." Dave: "Well, I think you'll need an inhaler to go with that energy the way it sounds." (both of us laughing) - Later on the podium... Dave: "And in 1st place, Bart Wellisley, riding for Spooky Bikes! Just don't look at his bike!" (More people laughing!) Yes, I have Spooky stickers covering the Trek logos on my Trek bike frame!! My custom AL Spooky frame is in-process of being built. ;)

Thanks go out to my sponsors, Spooky, Rudy Project USA, GU Energy, GEAX. Thanks to the race venue sponsors supplying the awards, Leroy's Bike Works and KMC. Thanks to Christie Burnett and Gone Riding for the photos! Thanks also to Cycleworks Bike Shop (Robert Marion) for their hospitality and the loads of fun had with them throughout the weekend, can't wait until US Cup East #2 in Tsali!!!

Garmin race data

Bouldergeist, San Lee State Park 03/17/13

This course is a BEAST, and if you aren't ready/able it will try to eat you and your bike!

The last 2yrs this race has been in the rain. It once again looked to be the same this year as it started to pour late last night. However, I knew there was a chance it did not rain once I was awakened in the night with the moon shining in on my face as I was facing the window. As I approached the venue this morning it was clear that it had not rained a drop in Sanford, NC. I was glad, as I was hopin to get to ride this trail dry for once as everyone else was wanting.

Temps were great once again as we were warming-up. I initially used my wind jacket, but then after just 10mins I removed it and went with just my shorts, jersey, and long-sleeve under armour. As last week, we (SS) were greated at the start line and given the 1st wave start. 2yrs ago, in their 1st running of the event, we were placed behind the sport class which had us weaving through the riders ahead of us until we had passed them all. However, just as last year, we were once again up-front and were given clear trail to fight it out.

Again, I chose to run the similar gearing as last year which was the same as last week (36/19). Taking off at the start I heard a fellow racer, Josh Miller, yell out "OK, boys. The race isn't won in the 1st 100yds. Oh, wait, Go Bart!" LOL I looked back and gave a smile as I blasted up the steep road climb which is ~100'+ over 1/10"mi with 3 speed bumps and loose gravel as you crest the top just before entering the single track! A few checks over the shoulder assured me of my gap goin in, then it was all about recovery for the next mile as I wasted the legs as usual to ensure myself of the lead.

I sat down on the saddle and tried the best I could to spin, given the terrain, to help the legs and lungs recover from the huge effort. Even while doing this I noticed my gap growing quickly as the trail switched back-n-forth on itself through the 1st technical ravine. As I climbed out my gap was already nearing 30secs. So again I forced myself to control my pace just a tad bit longer to ensure a full recovery. After about the 1mi mark I let go of the reigns and let the pistons start turning. Blasting through the trail I quickly discovered that this course being dry is far more technical than when it is wet!! I was drifting in almost every bend in the trail, and the rocks were grabbing the tires. I'd really need to keep my focus to ensure that I didn't slice a sidewall again like last year!

By the time we hit another of the numerous long switchbacks I again did a time check in my head back to my chasers. It was now over 1min! I just kept pushing-on, as I did not want to be the "carrot" hanging out front. I wanted to be "out of sight, and out of mind!" Before long I was, and I was no longer able to see my chasers. Now it was focus to keep the power going and not let them pull me back. Then it happened....As I ripped through the digestive system of the Rockness Monster, and prepared to exit its tail, I lost my focus just slightly, and with that, my speed. As soon as this happened I was making the sharp dropping 180 right turn and my front Geax Gato tire grabbed a rock with its claws jerking the bars to the left and over I went as the Monster reared its ugly head around to bit me!! The spectators watching went from cheering to yelling "Are you OK?" as I was picking myself, and my bike, up off the ground to continue. With them asking a second time I yelled back yes, as I sprinted away. I was lucky I was going slow, but I was unlucky in that my right hip had landed on a rock!

As I pushed on I started to feel the egg developing on my right hip. Glancing down I noticed a pinkish color developing in the white side-panel of my Rudy Project shorts, but there were no tears so I figured it couldn't be too bad. Then I came upon more new trail, this time it turned into a BMX course! I've never really tried doing doubles or table tops so I took it easy so as not to make any stupid mistakes. I cleared it all while still holding a decent speed. I also took it easy with the 3 water crossings, and somehow stayed dry except for a little water spraying up on my rear and back from the tire.

Coming through the transition area I was just 56mins in starting lap 2. This is by far one of the toughest courses! I immediately asked how many laps I had as I couldn't remember if it was 2 or 3. I kinda figured it was 2, as they confirmed, as it would mean a 3hr race! As I crested the start climb I looked back and again confirmed no one was in sight. I only looked back a couple more times to further confirm this, then I was focused on the lap traffic. This lap was already going better! I was hitting the lines I made mental notes of as I had missed them on lap 1, I was blasting through the water crossings completely drenching myself and the bike, and I even opened it up in the BMX section easily clearing the doubles while having a blast doing it!!

Finally, I was again on the climb up to the finish. This last climb was just 1 more punch in the thighs as it was the 3rd for the race, starting at the bottom and finishing at the top! LOL As I rolled to a stop I started the recovery while waiting for the chasers to come through. After about 4mins 2nd place rolled up the climb, then it was smaller random time gaps to the remaining riders. This turned-out to be a great race despite how my legs and lungs felt after the start climb of the race. Now I'm really feelin good aboot the start of the US Cup East series starting in FL next weekend!!! Time to put the hammer down!!!

Garmin file

Danville, VA 2013 State Championships 03/10/13

With temps rising the race was lookin to be a good one. The course was completely different from 2012 as it was ran in the opposite direction and only used a few of the same sections (backwards). It was a great idea driving up the evening before with Matt Jones to pre-ride. I ended-up goin with a similar gear ratio (36/19). The climbs were dialed-in and were fast. The course was 99% dry which made for fast lap times.

Sittin on the start line I was gettin ready to tear it up. Then a rider comes blastin up in front of us sliding to a stop with a tail whip...it was Wes Richards! Well, there goes my shot at the win! :( Wes is a great/strong Pro rider being 13yrs younger, probably aboot 40lbs lighter, and having aboot 40hrs more of training each week than I!! LOL

Takin-off at the start I easily took the hole-shot and set a good pace into the first long/fast set of climbs. Looking back it was Wes on my wheel then a huge gap back to the remaining field of 10+ single speeders. As we continued flyin up the climbs the gap kept growing. At about the 1/2 way mark there were 2 huge climbs back-to-back. These had me grinding hard on the cranks and pullin up on the bars with each step on the pedals. I had previously chatted with Wes yelling back to him saying, "You know you can take me, eh!?" To which he replied, "Yes, but I'm also racing in my normal class after this." Well, this 1st climb was the climb he decided to take control, just after I told him it appeared we had 1 or 2 riders bridging the gap. He acknowledged this and rode by as I took a line to the side allowing him the better line. Then, just as I was about to crest the 2nd of the 2 huge climbs one of the other riders succeeded in catching me. His first attempt to pass failed as he couldn't maintain his speed. However, his 2nd attempt was good just as we hit the top to begin the fast decent. Hindsight  I would've fought harder to hold him off...as soon as he passed I was on his wheel and having to scrub speed numerous times as he was not as smooth or skilled. I yelled a couple of times for him to stay off his brakes. LOL Then as we swung a 360 around a by-passed bridge he made a bobble and went wide on a nearly 180 left turn. Being on his wheel I quickly dove inside as I yelled out, "Inside line!" I'm not sure what happened after that, but I put in an attack to give myself some breathing room for the next couple of climbs and when I looked back I had a huge gap of at least 300yds.

As I continued to push-on, I ended-up getting a glimpse of Wes! It was clear that he was on a quite smaller gear (when asked at the start he told me he didn't know what he was riding LOL) as when we hit a few sections of trail that required pedaling I was pullin him back. As he was approaching the last climb, on the lead to the transition area, I was droppin into the ravine and yelled across to him, "Hey, Wes! You need to wait-up!" Then, as I crossed the stream  my gears started skipping when I started puttin power to the cranks for the climb. I started gettin worried, as in-front of me was the tightest/steepest climb on the course. It was a 180 steep left with a root in the middle creating 2 lines. This climb required tons of power and momentum. I wouldn't have made it had I not pre-rode it. Then the clicking of the chain stopped and I chose to go for it. I hit the climb on the inside and pulled hard on the bars while being fully prepared for the worst (chain jumping, chain breaking, or the frame exploding like the SS Trek frame last year! LOL). SUCCESS ! As I rounded the corner I nearly came to a stop as I mashed the pedals down then started to accelerate up the ridge. As I dropped out onto the gravel road to the transition area to start the 2nd lap I saw Wes just aboot 30secs up the road.

Starting lap 2 I blasted back into the single track hopin to keep Wes in sight as long as possible. I was thinking that if I could keep him in sight I could chase him down with the bigger gear at the finish. Then, as I flew around a bend cresting the first climb I was on him! He was just getting back on his bike!? I yelled at him, "Dude, I was kiddin aboot waitin-up, but thanks!" LOL He yelled back that his front wheel came loose and blamed me for sabotaging it! LOL We then paced up the climbs as we did at the start. Once again this only lasted until those 2 punishing climbs! He once again started to pull away. I put in an effort to delay it, but it was futile. He was gone by the time I reached the decent. However, looking back I wasn't seeing anyone bridging-up this time. Now I was focused on my only plan of trying to get him in-sight for a show-down at the finish.

With legs on-fire, I mashed the climbs hard as I could and rarely used the free-wheel to maximize my power and speed. I was even pedaling while simultaneously braking to scrub speed for the tighter corners just keepin the pedals turning and the rhythm going. Once again I finally got a glimpse as I started dropping into the final ravine. This time he was already past the monster switchback climb. At this point I accepted defeat. As I approached the climb out I was prepared to dismount if the chain made any hint of potential issues. It did not, so I chose to ride it again. Luckily all went well and I was off to the finish... 2nd across the line my legs were toast! As I rolled to a stop next to Wes I congratulated him on a strong race and relaxed as we waited for the remaining racers who were minutes behind us. He was able to hold a 30sec lead to the line...I have to be happy with my performance, just bummed that I couldn't defend my VA title, as I called him a "Sandbagger!" LOL!

The Killer 3 strikes again...

The Killer3 in Sumter, SC was the venue for race #1 of the Maxxis Southern Classics Series again this year, as well as race #1 of 3 for the SC State Championship title. My team mate, Tyler, and I arrived Saturday afternoon to set-up camp and get in a pre-ride of the course. It was essential as the course was noted as being completely different with a lot more climbing. Last year I ran a 34/16 and I was debating running the same again this year. However, I was not able to get my bike set-up with last year's components. I have not yet received my new race bike, my 2013 sponsor is The HomeTeam by Spooky Bicycles, so I had to convert the old geared bike into an SS. The frame geometry kept me from being able to use a singulator so I used an old XTR rear derailleur  This is where my problem began, as the XTR's cage is too narrow to run the PC-1 Sram SS chain. So, I began digging through my bike cases and finally found a 36T front ring, 18T and 19T rear cogs, and a Sram PC-99 Hollow-Pin chain that all fit/worked together. All other cogs were deformed from the non-stop abusive torque it was subjected to last year (until the SS bike frame imploded! LOL ). Now I was a bit nervous, as this only gave me a 2:1 gear ratio as my largest option (36/18).

Following the pre-ride my nerves settled a bit, as I realized that the 2:1 would be big enough due to the new single track having numerous short steep climbs and most not having a lead-in to carry momentum! I actually thought about putting on the 19T cog, for a split second. hahaha  Also, the course was not entirely new. The last 2 miles was the same as last year using a dirt/sand road to return us to the start/finish, so the bigger the better for gearing!

Race morning was waking up to chilly 38deg weather, but the sun was out! By race start it was in the low 40's, but it would never make it over 50. Everyone was debating layers for warmth. I opted for my bib-knickers, 3 base-layers of Under Armour, short-sleeve OTOF jersey, Gore Tex socks, winter gloves, and a head cap under the helmet. After about 20mins of warm-up I finally broke through the chill from the wind, all but the nose and eyes, but I was feeling good. That was until we, the SS racers, were told we were starting at the rear of the CAT2 class!! Now, not only would we be chilled-down again before the start we would also have to fight our way through the huge field of riders!!

With 18 riders on the line we prepped to go, lookin over the field I saw 2 other riders I knew would be tough and a third I didn't know. As I exploded off the line, anxious to get this first race under wraps, I quickly verified I again had a good gear (just a touch bigger than all the others). This kept my strategy in place. Getting the hole-shot I attacked the first 1/4mi of climbs and found just 1 other rider that could hold my wheel. I yelled back "How ya feelin'? I think we got a gap!" Mostly to hear the voice tone/strength and to find out who it was. It was Tom, the runner-up to to me 2yrs ago when I just got back into racing. Immediately I backed-off a touch as I knew he had just come off of a very strong cyclocross season, while I was foolin' around building trails! LOL

My plan went into affect as he eventually decided to pass. I jumped in behind him and let him hang off the front about 40yds pulling me through the trail. He kept looking back at me about every few hundred yards. I kept varying the gap to further the mind game! hahaha  All was good until about 1/2 way through Lap 2 of 3...

We had just passed a large string of CAT2 riders and I was bombing down a slight decline on a left-bending ridge-line, which then turns into a 180 right into a steep climb, when just as I rocked the bike to start the right-hand turn a woman jumps out to cross the trail from behind a tree.......BAM!!!! The moron took me out! For a split second I thought I had missed her as I watched my front my wheel graze the back of her leg. Then we were crashing to the ground! My left bar-end grabbed her backpack and pulled her down on top of me and my bike! Out came the expletive f-word! as I crawled out from under my bike and lifted both up. I heard a small crack sound, and upon spinning the wheels and giving a look-over of my bike on trail-side, I saw it appeared to just be the stem moved left making it off-center from the wheel. I was losing the leader! "F-word!" Yup, I was a little pissed...Every time she said sorry, or a rider passed by that would come out. It took about 2 minutes to get the bars straight and locked back down, well almost, as I quickly discovered upon re-mounting the bike and taking-off that they were now slightly off to the right, but rideable.

For the next full lap I pressed on passing by all those that had passed me again for the 2nd time this race. Then I finally got into new riders as I approached the front of the CAT2 field. Still no sighting of the Tom, the leader, so instead of completely blowing-up the legs I decided to back-off. Luckily no other SS'ers passed me during the crash. I then caught my team mate, Tyler, as we popped-out onto the road for the sand-race to the finish. Soon after passing him I I heard a yell, "Here comes a single speed!" Then the rider came by on my left. As soon as he passed I jumped on his wheel to implement my initial plan of attack for the win. I would pedal few revs then coast letting the clicking sound of the hub rattle in his head. After about 1-1/2 miles we approached the last bit of downhill which ended with a sweeping left turn to a slight climb to the finish. I then attacked, sprinting past him I opened a gap before even hitting the decent. Then I was into a tuck position allowing gravity to further propel me off the front, due to my weight advantage, and by the turn I had about 400yds. I then went into a spin at about 75% until I stopped at the finish line to tell the promoter and official know that they "forgot to tell the spectators to stay off the course!"

For the 2nd year in a row I took 2nd place at this venue...things will need to change for next year! LOL Now I'm focused on this weekend's race in Danville, VA at Angler's Ridge. Once again this is a single race for the VA State Title.


......No Pressure!! ;)

2013 Race Season to get under way!

My 1st true blog update today...and it is now PUBLIC!

This weekend starts my 2013 race season which will be race #1 of the Maxxis Southern Classics Series (Southeast Regional Championships), which I am currently the Single Speed Champion 2yrs running for the series as well as NC, SC, and VA. (insert "No Pressure" LOL)

This season brings yet another change in support. We have continued with my great relationship with Rudy Project USA (www.e-rudy.com) and a new relationship with Spooky Bicycles with a team name of "The HomeTeam". The team's objective is to provide support and leadership to U-23 racers of our team across the nation. This was the vision/mission of Mickey Denencourt, owner of Spooky Bicycles. Myself and my team mates from 2012, Tommy Rodgers, Brent Lester, and Tyler Graf, have chosen to join Mickey's mission for 2013 and beyond.

Anyhow, this weekend takes us to Sumter, SC for the Killer3. The course has been drastically changed since last year so it will once again require an early arrival to set-up our campsite to get in a pre-ride of the new course. Our departure will need to follow the completion of Thane's (8yo son) 1st soccer game Saturday morning.

I'm kinda nervous about the season start, as I'm still waiting for my new race bike. So currently I'm using my geared training bike from 2012 (name of mentioned CRAP bike mfg'er not to be mentioned, and it is covered on the bike with Spooky decals - LOL) converted to a SS using an old XTR rear derailleur  Last Sunday did not help my confidence, as during a local winter short-track race I dropped the chain 3x's in a rough section of trail. I also found the gear, which was the only gear I was able to get to work, to require a little more effort/torque/power than I'd like to have. However, it is a good gear for this 1st course and I'll just need to "power" through it! ;) Last year I finished 2nd after numerous mechanicals due to the frame geometry using a very poor sliding drop-out design, which reared it's ugly head throughout my season! I somehow finished the race after 4 chain drops and a front flat. On top of that, I discovered after the race that I had broken-off 4 teeth of the 17 tooth cog I was running in the back!!

Last night I got in another ride on a pretty rooty/ruff trail after taking out an additional link from the chain and placing the front derailleur back on the bike as a "chain guide". It seemed to work as I had no chain drops! As long as they don't find any rough rooty/rocky sections for the new course to traverse I should be good to go, as last year's course was pretty tame from what I can remember.

I wish I had more ride/training time in at this point of the season, as I've spent ~70hrs building a new mountain bike trail for the Town of Oak Ridge, NC in the town park! However, I am feelin' somewhat prepared as 2 weeks ago Tyler and I, and our good friend Matt Jones, traveled down to the 6/12hrs of Santos near Gainsville, FL. I had a tire issue after just 1-1/2 laps causing me to have to stop and use CO2 to add air to get back to our pit area and make a change, ultimately I had to put in a tube. Even with this I was still able to get a respectable 7th place finish in the Elite-Male 6hr category. The ride was by far the longest this year as my average distance has been ~10miles/ride! LOL

So, I'm hoping to provide another good result following Sunday's race. Especially as this is also race#1 of 3 for defending my SC single speed title. -----Stay tuned! Thanks for following!

2013 Beginnings....

WOW, figured I'd revive my Blog for 2013 instead of posting to Facebook. I'll give it a try, and I'd like to ask for your feedback as to which you prefer!? THANKS!

So, it appears I haven't posted here since well before Nic was born, going back to Dec 2008!!! A lot has changed, and yes, I was drug in to Facebook with the rest of the world's fools! LOL My hope is to bring a better atmosphere to following my mountain bike adventures, while also being able to promote my sponsors, as well as share a little of my family life.

My 1st post will be coming soon as I will be travelling with a couple friends to the annual race in FL promoted by a great group known as Gone Riding (Dave and Terry)! I've always looked forward to their 6/12hr event to help build my training for the start of the season. Now more than ever, as in the past it was to get outside for some dirt riding instead to the usual snow back in MI. I usually had a couple of additional months following to continue my training, but now being in NC the season starts just 2wks later!!

Once again I'll be racing Single Speed in 2013. I will be expanding my exposure beyond the Southern Classics Series to the South Eastern Regional Championships. I figured I needed to increase the competition after taking the SS class by storm upon returning to racing following a 4yr hiatus in 2010. The SCS included NC, SC, and VA, for which I won the SS title for all 3 states and the series both years. This year the SERC series will add TN, GA, AL, and FL to the mix!!! Should be a fun time!!!

I will also be racing with my team mates from last year on a new team, The Hometeam presented by Spooky Bicycles! Our team's focus is to support the U-23 racers on the team which is a national team. We will be riding custom bikes. My bike will be built as an AL 29er frame with an eccentric bottom bracket and fitted with the latest and greatest Cannondale Lefty. Tires will be provided by Geax, shoes will come from Mavic, lids/eyes from Rudy Project USA, energy from GU, and others to be named soon!!

Please follow along and enjoy my ramblings. Let me know your thoughts and if you can come out to join in the fun, riding or supporting!!!

Thanks!
Bart

Holidays are here!

We hope everyone has a safe and fun holiday season with your families and friends! Haven't posted in a while as we've been pretty busy. Currently we're preparing for the holidays and trying to choose a name for our coming baby boy! Yup, #2 is due March 3, 2009! We have it narrowed down to 4 choices. We're both excited, and so is Thane. Julie finally got over the sickness a couple weeks ago and is hoping it doesn't return. Work is still going good. Still no permanent schedule, but I'm currently on days 0700hrs - 1900hrs.

It's going to be...

A BOY! Yup, we just had our ultrasound appointment and it will be a boy. Now we need to find a name....... For the record, Julie was happier than me on this one! :p haha

Further news reports...

FLINT JOURNAL

Click the above link for the editorial in the Flint Journal 9-15-08

Two More Counterterror SEALs Die in Afghanistan September 14, 2008 Two more Navy SEALs from an extraordinarily elite and supersecret counterterrorism unit have been killed in Afghanistan, following the death two weeks ago of a SEAL from the same clandestine unit. Details were - not surprisingly - vague. There is no direct evidence they died fighting in the new CIA-led offensive against Al Qaeda and the Taliban along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border. But their loss in Afghanistan is certainly significant and a real blow to their fellow operators in the Joint Special Operations Command, which includes the Army’s Delta Force. The two SEALs were killed September 11 somewhere “in Afghanistan,” according to military press releases, and were part of the shadowy Naval Special Warfare Development Group, the elite counterterrorism force once known as SEAL Team 6. Typically, the military identifies which Afghan town, district, city or province where American troops perish. But for the third time since August 30, when Petty Officer 1st Class Joshua Thomas Harris, a Bronze Star recipient, was reported killed after being swept away during a combat river crossing, the precise location of the latest “DEVGRU” combat casualties is unknown.. Killed last week were Senior Chief Special Warfare Operator John Wayne Marcum, 34, and Chief (select) Special Warfare Operator Jason Richard Freiwald, 30, the Navy said. Each man had served in Iraq and Afghanistan and was a highly decorated SEAL. Before Harris, no DEVGRU SEAL had fallen in Afghanistan since March 2002, according to a review of Operation Enduring Freedom deaths at iCasualties.org. Marcum earned four Bronze Star medals with the combat “V” distinguishing device, as well as the Joint Service Commendation medal, four Combat Action ribbons and a chestful of other decorations in his career. The younger Freiwald had also earned a Bronze Star and Combat Action ribbon, the Navy said. Sadly, both SEALs leave behind a wife and daughter. The Naval Special Warfare Foundation, which accepts donations, will likely provide support for each family. - James Gordon Meek

Loss of a good family friend...and a Nation's HERO

Two Dam Neck based SEALs killed in combat Posted: Sep 13, 2008 09:18 PM EDT

Senior Chief Special Warfare Operator John Marcum

Updated: Sep 13, 2008 10:15 PM EDT
Special Warfare Operator Jason Freiwald
Senior Chief Special Warfare Operator John Marcum
CORONADO, Calif. - Two U.S. Navy SEALs died in Afghanistan Thursday night from injuries they suffered on September 11 during combat operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Senior Chief Special Warfare Operator John Wayne Marcum, 34, and Chief (select) Special Warfare Operator Jason Richard Friewald, 30, both distinguished and highly decorated combat veterans, were fatally shot in Afghanistan during a battle with heavily armed militants.

Marcum and Friewald were forward deployed to Afghanistan from the Naval Special Warfare Development Group at Dam Neck in Virginia Beach.

"The deaths of SOCS Marcum and SOC Friewald are tremendous losses for Naval Special Warfare and the United States, " said Capt. Scott Moore, Commanding Officer of NSWDG. "These men were true warriors, dedicated to their country, their fellow SEALs, and the cause for which they were fighting. They died while taking the fight to the enemy, going in harm's way with the selflessness that resonated in their character and made them giants among men.

SOCS Marcum and SOC Friewald were American heroes who put their lives on the line, completing multiple combat tours in Afghanistan and Iraq. They served with honor and distinction. The thoughts and prayers of the Naval Special Warfare community are with their families."

Marcum, a native of Flushing, Mich., was a graduate of Flushing Senior High School. He enlisted in the Navy on August 5, 1991 and reported to Recruit Training Command in Orlando, Fla., on the same day.

After completing basic training he attended the Navy and Marine Corps Intelligence Training Center, Dam Neck, Va., before reporting to Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL training at Coronado, Calif. BUD/S is the first step to becoming a Navy SEAL and is six months of the most demanding training in the military. Upon graduation from BUD/S, Marcum attended Basic Airborne School in Ft. Benning, Ga. He then reported to his first permanent duty station at SEAL Team 2 at Naval Amphibious Base, Little Creek, Va.

Marcum completed many rigorous qualifications at SEAL Team 2 to prepare him for combat, including sniper training, DoD Hostage Survival School, and SEAL diving supervisor. Marcum distinguished himself during multiple combat deployments in support of Joint Army and NATO operations. In March 2000 Marcum transferred from SEAL Team 2 and began the demanding selection and training program at NSWDG. His training included military free-fall parachuting; emergency medical response, Survival, Escape, Resistance and Evasion courses; advanced pistol and rifle; and several other courses. Marcum completed the arduous training and received orders to Naval Special Warfare Tactical Development and Evaluation Squadron 2.

Marcum is a highly-decorated combat veteran and received numerous awards, including four Bronze Star medals with combat "V" distinguishing device; Joint Service Commendation medal; two Navy and Marine Corps Commendation medals; Army Commendation medal; Joint Service Achievement medal; two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, four Combat Action ribbons, and a multitude of personal, unit and campaign decorations.

Marcum is survived by his loving wife, Cynthia; his daughter, Madison; and his sister, mother and father.

Friewald was born Dec. 20, 1977 in Utica, Michigan where he later graduated from Armada Senior High School. He enlisted in the Navy on April 25, 1996 and reported to Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Ill., on November 5, 1996. After completing basic training he graduated from the Navy and Marine Corps Intelligence Training Center, Dam Neck, Va., before reporting to Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL training at Coronado, Calif. Upon graduating from BUD/S, Friewald completed Basic Airborne School in Ft. Benning, Georgia.

He then reported to his first permanent duty station at SEAL Team 5 at Naval Amphibious Base, Coronado, Calif. He served at SEAL Team 5 for two years before transferring to SEAL Team 3 in Coronado. While at SEAL Teams 5 and 3 he completed numerous qualifications to prepare him for combat, including sniper training, Arabic, and tactical rock climbing, to name only a few.

Friewald also distinguished himself during multiple combat deployments in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. In March 2005, Freiwald transferred from SEAL Team 3 and began the demanding selection and training program at NSWDG. Friewald completed the arduous training and received orders to Naval Special Warfare Tactical Development and Evaluation Squadron 2.

Friewald is a highly-decorated SEAL combat veteran including the Bronze Star medal with combat "V" distinguishing device; Joint Service Commendation Medal with combat "V" distinguishing device; two Navy and Marine Corps Commendation medal with combat "V" distinguishing device; the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement medal; Combat Action ribbon, and numerous personal, unit and campaign medals.

Friewald is survived by his loving wife, Stacey; his daughter, Jasmine; and his mother and father, Terri and Richard Friewald.

"Seven years ago this week, terrorists attacked our nation. SOCS Marcum and SOC Freiwald willing placed themselves in harms way to prosecute our enemies to the farthest corners of the earth," said Rear Admiral Ed Winters, Commander, Naval Special Warfare Command. "We owe them and their families an eternal debt of gratitude for the sacrifices they have made. Their unwavering courage and commitment to protecting our nation will never be forgotten."

Another Navy SEAL assigned to Naval Special Warfare Development Group, Damn Neck was killed in Afghanstan on August 30. Special Warfare Operator First Class (SEAL) Joshua Thomas Harris, 36, a highly decorated combat veteran, drowned after being swept away by turbulent waters while conducting a river crossing during combat operations.

Naval Special Warfare Command is the Navy component of United States Special Operations Command and the special operations component of the United States Navy. The command supports, trains, equips and deploys maritime special operations forces to meet the operational requirements of combatant commanders. These special operations forces include more than 8,400 active-duty and reserve SEALs (Sea-Air-Land) and Special Warfare Combatant-craft Crewman (SWCC) operators and support personnel based primarily in San Diego, Calif., Norfolk, Va., and deployed all over the world.