Final Thoughts - 2008 Bike Rally

I’m back from the bike rally and I had a great time this year. I met some amazing new friends and they will definitely be “Friends for Life”. Some days were easier than others but I made it with a big smile on my face. To tell you the truth, I was quite sad it was over and I probably could have ridden back. Crazy, I know but I had a great time.

Some of you didn’t think I’d make it last year. Who could blame you? I hadn’t ridden a bike in 10 yrs and then I take on this incredible challenge. Then some of you didn’t think I’d make it this year after what happened in Niagara Falls. Despite your doubts and jokes, your support was always there and for that I am greatly appreciated. I hope I can count on you next year as this has become an endeavour close to my heart and I’d like to continue as long as I’m able to.

Thanks to your generous donations, I was able to raise $3300!!!

This year, the bike rally raised over a million dollars, which is a first for them. So thank you to everyone who sponsored me. Your dollars will be used to fund on-going programs and services for men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS in Toronto.

Here are a few memorable pictures and there are far more posted on Flickr. The Bike Rally participants were asked to tag them with “BikeRally2008” so you can also do a search and look at others.

Once again, thank you so much for all your support!

Day 6 - Lancaster to Montreal - 102km

It’s our last day! I was filled with emotion that the bike rally was coming to an end. I haven’t enjoyed the camping bit this time around but I was having a great time riding.

After we were all packed up and fed, we went to the meeting spot for final morning announcements. We had our final clap, took group photos and then we were on our way to Montreal!

We got to the border really quick and we took a few pictures. We had a new person riding with us today. Craig! He really loved my tunes so we rocked to Madonna and Celine Dion. We had the best time singing and dancing. The other riders thought we were hilarious. Especially when Joe and David danced for us. They were the best. It was a fun way to not think about my throbbing ankle. I only had one more day and then I can relax. Well, not really as I was moving in 2 weeks but I wouldn’t have to ride anymore until it was better.

We took the rest of the day easy because of my ankle, which was really nice of them. They didn’t have to wait for me. We got to lunch and I got some ice from the medical van. My team was supposed to serve lunch today but sadly I couldn’t participate. I felt really bad. Joe got my lunch for me, which was really sweet of him. He’s a great friend!

We were almost the last ones to leave lunch and I’m not quite sure why. I think we had trouble locating Joe. He’s such a social butterfly!

Once again we stopped at a bar before heading to our last meet-up spot. It was so weird being there. Almost all the same riders from last year were there sitting in the same chairs as last year getting served by the same waitress. Too much déjà vue! We enjoyed a cold beverage before the sweeps came in and kicked us out.

We didn’t wait as long as last year to leave from that break, which was good. I called Rich to tell him we were on our way. Arriving to the park, I noticed Rich, his mom, brother and EDDIE! They weren’t allowed in the park because of the dog so I went in, hugged everyone, and left the park. I have to admit, I cried when I saw Eddie. I hadn’t seen him since the beginning of June.

We got all my stuff and headed to the hotel where they had dinner on the patio and I had a nice long hot shower with real soap, not camp soap! After the gang from Ottawa left, Rich and I finished getting ready and we were off to Sky bar for our reception.

I had so much fun that night. Some people didn’t recognize me without my bike attire, which was quite funny. Do I look that different? We danced the night way ‘til 1:30am and then called it a night. I thought for sure I wouldn’t be able to walk the next day. Dancing with a busted ankle probably wasn’t the best idea but we were having a good time and I’m sure the Vodka helped. ;)

Stats:

Dst: 105.80 km
Tm: 4.47.21 hrs
Odo: 1866.36 km
Mx: 37 km
Av: 22.1 km

Click here for pics.

 

Day 5 - Johnstown to Lancaster - 108km

My ankle hurt a bit more this morning. I hope it would be ok to finish the week. Despite my ankle, we rode pretty fast. The Scooby crew rode together as usual. We arrived at lunch and I decided to get a massage. Rich said a huge wave of rain was heading our way so I was hoping my massage would be over by then. Sam gave me the best massage but it wasn't relaxing or nice. I could feel all the knots in my neck and shoulder.

Joe and I arrived at the Cornwall rec centre where we took advantage of real bathrooms that were clean! We had a bit of watermelon and then we were on our way to Dairy Queen.

Day 5 is a huge highlight for most people as everyone stops at Dairy Queen right before we get into the campsite. I had a blizzard knowing it could make me sick but we were a few mins from the campsite so I risked it. I didn’t get sick and it was the best blizzard! Probably because I haven’t had one in years!

After Dairy Queen, David and I went to the liquor store and Joe went back to the campsite to get a massage. It was our last night so we were going to have a celebration! I think the whole bike rally thought the same too as we saw many people coming and going from there.

This was by far the worst campsite. It had tall trees and it was infested with spiders! Luckily I sprayed my tent with spider spray and I repeated it at this campsite. Once we were all settled, we ventured our way to the lake to clean up but it was closed due to bacteria. Boo! So we waited 20 mins in line for a shower.

My ankle was now turning blue and it was quite sore so I went back to the medical van and they gave me some ice and got me a treatment. I don’t think I mentioned it but about a month ago, I had wiped out on some street car tracks and wiped out pretty bad. I hurt my leg and ankle. Apparently it takes 2-3 mths for it to heal properly. Hence why it came back to haunt me on the bike rally.

After dinner, massages, etc.. we all relaxed around our tents for a bit and then we went to the beach for the candlelight vigil. It was quite moving listening to everyone’s story as to why they were doing the ride. If you’re struggling with the ride like I did last year, it really brings it into perspective. This is one week with a couple months of training. People with HIV AIDS have to deal with it for the rest of their lives. Michel even made a little speech.

After the moving ceremony it was off to line dance. It was a fun night watching everyone try to keep up with Nathan. Marc tried to get me to dance but I couldn’t because of my ankle.

Stats:

Dst: 111.80 km
Tm: 4.28.39 hrs
Odo: 1760.56 km
Mx: 47.6 km
Av: 25 km

Click here for pics.

Day 4 - Kingston to Johnstown - 110km

You’d think I would have woken with a hangover, right? Nope! Maybe this Eload + Advil before bed thing works. Hehe I felt great!

Today I wore my Arinso jersey to thank them for their generous donation and to also thank all my colleagues for their donations and support.

I had a great breakfast with Grace and the 2 top fundraisers Louis and Henry. It was so nice to have something other than oatmeal, and boiled eggs for breakfast. Grace was a little emotional at breakfast. She was so overwhelmed that she made it to Kingston. Good for her for taking on this personal challenge. I could only imagine how she’d feel once she makes it to Quebec!

The Scooby crew rode together and today is where I learned how to gear properly. Now I know I’ve been riding full time for 2 yrs now but whatever! Better late than never. I was told to always keep my cadence at 90 and then I can ride forever without overexerting myself. I decided to try cycling in my hardest gear. This made me ride a lot faster!

Joe and I rode together in the morning while David had some sort of speed boost and was way ahead of us. Then in the afternoon, Joe had the speed boost. We caught up to him on the last break where he gave me a sip of his Timmy’s coffee. Mmmm Yum!

I must have had the speed boost after that as I left David, Joe, Justin, Robin and Trevor behind. Joe and I got to camp way before the rest did. Turns out they stopped at the LCBO.

Once I bathed and we were relaxing around our tents, Joe noticed that my left ankle was really swollen. He insisted on bringing me to the nurses’ station although I tried to brush him off. I didn’t want them taking me off the ride. Finally agreed and she told me to stay off it as much as possible except to ride. She also asked me to ice it as much as possible. It didn’t hurt so that was a good thing.

Tonight was “talent night”. It should really be called “Entertainment Night”. Our team was going to do a dance to Locomotion as our team was called “Spoke-a-motion”. We didn’t have the song on a CD so I volunteered to be the DJ and put my bike speaker up to the microphone. Other team had amazing skits and it was a great night overall full of entertainment. I especially loved the Marc VS Justine skit where they re-enacted a scene from Dynasty.

Stats:

Dst: 110.50 km
Tm: 4.59.45 hrs
Odo: 1648.76 km
Mx: 45.4 km
Av: 22.1 km

Click here for pics.

Day 3 - Adolphustown to Kingston - 51km

Today was a short and sweet ride. It was going to be a breeze. I rode with my Scooby gang again and we had blast. We sang and Joe danced for us. Before we knew it, we were at our first break.

It was still sunny but it was a little chilly riding along the water. Beautiful views though.

We told Joe that we were stopping at the Kingston sign for a photo op but he must have forgotten so here’s David and I. Can you tell we’re excited?

11km before arriving at Queen’s, we stopped to have some chips with Road Safety. They cheered us up, not that we needed it, fed us and we were on our way.

We arrived in Kingston in 2 hrs and 15 mins. Let’s just say we arrived and got our keys before noon! After we brought our bikes to our rooms we went for lunch where they served us Subway sandwiches. Yum!

I was walking around for a bit and decided to check how busy the laundry room was. It wasn’t too busy so I grabbed my stuff and waited 8 mins for a washer. I met 3 really great people while doing my laundry. Andre from Montreal who was on the food crew, Dimitry, who was a first year rider and then Rose.

Once my laundry was done, it was time to have a nice hot shower. I had a massage booked at a Spa nearby but I didn’t feel like I needed it so I cancelled the appt. I decided to run errands in town instead. I needed to get a charger for my iPod, check out Lululemon, go to Shoppers and then the LCBO.

Once I got to Princess street, I met up with Joe and David so we ran the errands together. They’re such good sports. Our team had organized a dinner but there’s hadn’t so I convinced them to go to Windmills with me. Once there, we met up with Justin, Robin, Akin and Michel. We had a great dinner and then David, Michel and I went to the social at the Grizzly. We only stayed for a bit and then we went to the Grad Club where it was packed with Bike Rally people.

I was the last one standing. David and Michel left around midnight and I stayed with Carey, Marc, British hottie Marc, and a few new friends I made. We had a few more drinks and then I think I got back to my room around 2am. I decided to drink a whole thing of Eload, take an Advil and hope for the best for tomorrow!

Stats:

Dst: 52.41 km
Tm: 2.15.20 hrs
Odo: 1538.26 km
Mx: 38.3 km
Av: 23.2 km

Click here for pics.

Day 2 - Port Hope to Adolphustown - 125km

It looked like the storm passed through and it was nice and sunny. Breakfast Television was there again for the 3rd year. I stayed clear of the cameras. I don’t want to be on TV. Hehe

Once we were on the road, Michel and I decided to ride separately. He rides much faster at 35+km/hr and I ride much slower at 20km/hr. I had no issues with this as yesterday he was constantly riding my ass and it was making me too nervous.

I was having a much better day even though I wasn’t that rested with being rained on all night an then woken up at 5am. I was getting good speed and then I saw Joe and David on the side of the road with a flat. About a km back there was a broken bottle on an overpass. Joe must have ridden through it and it sliced his tube and tire. We tried fixing the flat but it was taking quite some time as we didn’t have a good enough pump. Some time went by and a Road Safety van stopped but they didn’t have a floor pump. More time went by and then the sweeps arrived and they had a good pump.

Once we got going again, David was in front of us. He was quite a bit ahead of us and then Joe got another flat. I stopped with him and soon after the mechanic ladies stopped to help us. His tire was completely slashed and the wound reopened. After a while, they re-patched the hole and said they’d get him a new tire and a few tubes.

We finally caught up to David at the 2nd break and told him about Joe’s 2nd flat. We got going soon after and Joe got his 3rd flat so he decided to wait for Road Safety to pick him up and David and I continued riding to lunch.

Lunch was at this great B&B where they served us ice cream. I didn’t dare touch it although it was tempting. I’m lactose intolerant.

David and I rode the rest of the day together, got to the ferry and then I must have taken speed boosts or something because once I was off that ferry, I booted it to the campsite leaving David in my dust. Sorry.

As it was the hottest day so far, I decided to bathe in the lake. It was much colder than I thought it would be. I didn’t feel cold after that! We had a nice dinner with Justin, Robin and Akin and then hung out before bed.

The funniest part of the day was going up this hill and seeing a Road Safety van at the top. I saw someone in costume and it was Marc. He said he almost got arrested for public mischief! LOL Also, he said a girl was riding up the hill, fell off her bike from laughing so hard and as a result broke her arm! Oh my goodness! That poor thing!

All in all it was a great day for our longest day of the bike rally, although poor Joe had 4 flats! He tried riding after lunch but got another flat. I have to hand it to him. He was determined to ride and he did.

Stats:

Dst: 126.47 km
Tm: 5.46.25 hrs
Odo: 1485.85 km
Mx: 49.1 km
Av: 21.9 km

Click here for pics.

Day 1 - Toronto to Port Hope - 112km

I didn't sleep much last night so I was quite tired getting to Queen's Park. I tried eating a good breakfast but I just couldn't. I knew this would bite me in the ass.

We were at Queen's Park quite some time before we were able to leave. I met Grace while waiting to depart. What a sweet, sweet lady. Her smile and laugh was infectious!

I forgot my sunglasses so I met Rich back near our place where I noticed that I packed my inhaler in the bins which were now on route to our first campsite. So he went back home, got another inhaler and met us at our first break. How he puts up with me is beyond me. Hehe

The rest of the day was pretty uneventful and boring. I struggled quite a bit to finish that day.

Right before we got to the campsite, it started to thunder. I had asked the weather gods to hold off on rain until my tent is set up OR rain while we're on bikes. I guess no one got the memo. I managed to get the bins, scope out a place for our tents and then the sky opened up and it down poured. It didn't last too long but I was soaked by the end of it.

We managed to get the tents up while it cleared and then we were off to the YMCA for a hot shower. I was freezing soaked in my bike clothes! I managed to get one of the very few private showers. It was heaven.

The skies were clear for dinner and then 1 glass of wine before bed and then it started pouring again. Note to self. Don't buy a $30 tent as it won't keep you dry. It rained on me all night so I'll leave it at that. Bad day. Bad night. Things can only look up from here.

Stats:

Dst: 118.44 km
Tm: 5.46.56 hrs
Odo: 1359.38 km
Mx: 50.6 km
Av: 20.5 km

Click here for pics.

Packing Day

As usual, I think I over packed as my bags were extremely heavy. Rich didn't think my stuff would fit in the 2 bins that were assigned to me.

I didn't feel like I was running late but I was such a airhead. I left the house in my slippers and no bra. I have never ever done that before! My head was definitely somewhere else.

We picked up Michel and got to the gym by 10am. There was already a huge line-up. I guess others had the same idea to get there early and get it out of the way. All my stuff fit in my 2 bins despite Rich's doubts. HA! 30 mins later, our bins were packed, we were signed in and we were off for a last good breakfast. Last year we went to Fran's Diner so I thought it was only appropriate to go there again.

We had 'Eggs Princess', which is like Eggs Benedict but with file mignon instead of ham. It was heavenly.

Day 1 tomorrow. I'm not excited yet. I think I'm scared. I don't want a repeat of last year's hard time.

Reception Party - SKY Bar in Montreal

We have been training since April, eating our pasta, going to bed early every weekend so we can ride all day long. It is time to
P-A-R-T-Y and let loose!

This year our Montreal Reception party returns to SKY Bar (1474 rue Ste-Catherine est). From 8:00 – 10:00 PM the Friends For Life Bike Rally has exclusive use of the 3rd floor and a VIP section on the roof. Come by for snacks, a few speeches and lots of kissing and hugging as we celebrate the amazing journey of the 10th Annual Friends For Life Bike Rally. Family and friends are welcome!

Hope you can make it!

Location: SKY Bar (1474 rue Ste-Catherine est)
Time: Friday August 1, 2008, 8pm - 10pm

Arrival Ceremonies - 5:00pm, Friday August 1

After six incredible days, Riders will leave the bike path at a designated spot, at which time Road Safety and the Montreal police will lead the procession to our final destination, Parc Emilie-Gamelin.

After the emotional arrival and all the congratulations, we’ll have a few short speeches and provide an opportunity for folks to take a group photo. Media will be present and we'll have access to a beer garden, courtesy of Divers/Cité.

Here are the Arrival details in case anyone is interested in welcoming me in Montreal around 5pm on Friday, August 1st.  Once again, if you are planning on coming, please contact me for my cell phone number so we can meet up. It will be very busy and don't count on finding me. It'll be like "Where's Waldo". hehe J Rich will be at the finish line so you can also make arrangements to meet up with him.  Message me if you need his cell phone number.

Location: Parc Emilie Gamelin (map)

 

Departure Ceremonies - Sunday, July 27th

After months of fundraising, training and preparation, the big day has arrived! Coffee, beverages and snacks will be available.

Here are the departure details in case anyone is interested in coming to the Departure Ceremonies on Sunday, July 27th. If you are planning on coming, please contact me for my cell phone number so we can meet up. It will be very busy so don't count on finding me. It'll be like "Where's Waldo". hehe J

Location: Queen’s Park (University Avenue, between College and Wellesley Streets)

7:00am: Participant Sign in
8:00am: Group photos (Crew and Rider, Rider, Crew) on steps of Legislature
8:15am: Ceremonies and speeches from Co-chairs and special guests
8:35am: Stretching with Rex Harrington
8:50am: Riders line up in pairs
9:00am: Departure

Want to know what route we're taking?

Are you curious as to what route we're taking? Do you think we're taking the 401 the whole way? Want to meet up with me at some point and cheer me on?

Click here to check out our route and where we'll be day to day. If you would like to meet up with me, leave me a comment and I'll give you my cell number so we can try to meet up.

 

 

A day in the life of a bike rally rider

Are you curious as to what our day is like? Our day begins at 5:30am and it doesn't end until 10pm. Click here to see our daily schedule.

 

Let's hope for no rain during the bike rally!

Wednesday, July Last year, it was deadly hot! It was in the 40s with humidity every day. For someone who doesn't deal with working out in the heat, not so good. However, I don't want rain either. I'll take the heat over rain. Biking in the rain is one thing but setting up camp in the rain would just plain suck!

I just looked at the 14-day trend to see what the weather will be that week. I know things can change but right now, things are looking pretty good.  However, this is the forecast for Toronto.  I should look at the cities we'll be travelling through.  I'll do that on Friday.  Stay tuned.

I've done the training in all kinds of weather so I feel more ready than I did last year. We rode in torrential downpour, thunder, lightning, extreme heat, cold, etc... Bring it! Wait, just don't bring rain. J

 

New Shoes - Shimano Road Shoes SH-085W

I've been having some burning pain at the bottom of my foot, followed by some cramping. It happened all last year and now this year, I have huge blisters in that exact spot. I decided to buy new shoes with a new pedal system. I'm not sure if this will be a resolution but I'm willing to try anything. Last Saturday, the pain started at 8km and then at 14km, my feet were completely numb.

My bike is getting tuned up this week so I hope I get it back in time to practice. It'll be real silly to try a new system on Day 1 of the bike rally.

Aren't they pretty? They also match my bike. I'm a nerd. Yup I am. Click here for more info on them in case you are interested.

Celine Dion Theme Night!!!

My god! How freaking exciting! Too bad I don't have any Celine paraphernalia. Damn! It'll be interesting to see what kind of costumes people come up with for that night.

Click here to learn all about the fun things in store for us that night.

 

Bike Rally Menu 2008

In case anyone is interested, here's the menu for the bike rally. It looks very similar to last year.

 

Happy Bday Rich!!!

Sunday, July 20, 2008

We were supposed to ride even though it was Rich's bday but it was a wet and soggy day. It didn't clear up at all. I didn't think anyone would show up for the ride and I was right. Out of 342 riders, 8 people showed up for the ride. Someone from my team said it was a horrible day and it never got any better. So happy we didn't ride in that. I rode in the rain, storm, thunder, lightning, sun, heat and humidity so really, I didn't need to train in another soggy day.

I was really hoping to do another training ride especially after what happened yesterday.   Maybe I can get in another ride on my own before I leave.  We'll see.   I brought my bike to Enduro to get tuned up.  It should be ready by Wed.  Actually, I do have to do some riding.  I still haven't tried my new shoes/pedals.

 

Finch - Keswick - 126km - Last Official Training Ride!

Saturday, July 19, 2008

Ride Description: A challenging route all the way to the shores of Lake Simcoe. This ride is essential training - if you can do this one, we know you'll be able to get to Montreal. On these long rides, it's more important than ever to keep your cadence high, especially on hills, so always shift down to an easy gear to save your legs and reduce stress on your knees.

Stats:

Dst: 125.92km
Tm: 6:40.48
Odo: 1240.94km
Mx: 43.8km
Av: 18.8km

Training Pics - Sponsor Me

Today was possibly the worst bike ride I have ever done. I had pasta the night before and the leftover for breakfast but I still have 0 energy. I think I was 25km into the ride and I was in my lowest gear in my grannies. I had no more gears and it was so hard to pedal. We stopped at a gas station and I got one of their pre-made chicken sandwiches. It was possibly the grossest thing, next to sushi that I have ever eaten in my life but I needed something to give me energy.

It didn't give me much energy but the rest of the ride to the break were a blur. We made it to Keswick but we didn't go to the BBQ. Instead we had lunch at Dairy Queen. Ahhhh air conditioning!

After lunch, we cut a few kilometres off the route. We went straight instead of turning left, then right, and then left. I needed to cut all the kilometres I could.

It was an awful day and it really sucked ending the training in such a low note. I guess the reason I'm so bummed is because I don't know what the problem was. I ate right the night before, ate right during the day, stayed hydrated, etc... I hope for happier rides on the bike rally.

I think this was the only time I smiled. Riding through "Pleasantville". How can you not smile through a town named like that.

Bike Rally Errands Instead of Riding

Saturday, July 13, 2008

We didn't ride today as Rich didn't feel like it. It did look kinda soggy out so I agreed that we wouldn't ride but we'd be doing bike rally related errands.

We got a lot done. We went to Lululemon and they had nothing as usual. At this rate, I'll never spend my $100 gift card. Then we went to MEC for some last minute camping supplies. Then we got some E-Load and electrolyte beans at the Running Room. I can't stand Gatorade and I'm not sure if they'll have something lighter so I will be prepared. I also got some organic nuts and bars from the health food store. I just can't eat those chocolatety sweet things.

Last year, I brought too much clothes and left my supplements and supplies behind. This year, my supplements and own food will have more importance. We burn 3000 calories a day on average and I didn't eat much last year, which is probably why I was so weak and sick.

Kipling - Cambellville - 117km - AGAIN...

Saturday, July 12, 2008

Ride Description: This route around the area outside of Milton provides awesome views of the Niagara Escarpment and the surrounding countryside, with winding roads alongside beautiful streams. The break spot, Bruce Trail Eatery, is a popular stop for the local club cyclists. Lucinda's favourite route.

Stats:

Dst: 124.45km
Tm: 6:10:42
Odo: 1115.02km
Mx: 46.9km
Av: 20.3km

Training Pics - Sponsor Me

We were running quite late for this ride. I think we were the last ones, not including the sweeps to leave the station. It must have the pasta I had for breakfast because for the first time EVER, I was a speedster. We must have passed 20 or so riders. It was a great feeling!

We rode part of the morning with our "Scooby Crew". I forget how we go that name but it's funny nonetheless!

It felt good to do better at a ride that I did poorly the weekend before. I don't think I got tired much before 50k. Once we made it to the 1st break, I was able to regroup and continue the next 15k to our BBQ break. I was pleasantly surprised to find out that there were riders an hour and a half behind us. I also knew how that felt though as I hardly made it to the BBQ the weekend before.

All in all it was a great day. I only rode 30mins or so faster than the weekend before but I felt so much better than that day.

 

"Eye On The Prize!"... As My Trainer Would Say

I know it probably sounds like I complain a lot but I know why I'm here. I'm here to help raise money for PWA. Doing all this cycling when you're not a cyclist is very hard but I will not let my sponsors down. I'm training harder and harder every week to make this journey. The most important part for me is to raise money and if I have to complain about the training to get through this, then so be it! J

So with that said, SPONSOR me and help me raise more money for PWA!

Kipling - Cambellville - 117km

Sunday, July 6, 2008

Ride Description: This route around the area outside of Milton provides awesome views of the Niagara Escarpment and the surrounding countryside, with winding roads alongside beautiful streams. The break spot, Bruce Trail Eatery, is a popular stop for the local club cyclists. Lucinda's favourite route.

Stats:

Dst: 124.40km
Tm: 6:41.38
Odo: 990.57km
Mx: 45.6km
Av: 18.6km

Training Pics - Sponsor Me

It was another beautiful sunny day! Two back-to-back sunny days! What a luxury not to be stormed on.

I woke up super early although we didn’t have to leave the apartment until 8:50am. So frustrating! I probably could have used that sleep. I didn’t feel sore or tired from yesterday’s ride. After we got home, I took that shower and felt instantly better. I thought it was going to be a great day!

We left for the subway and I barely made it to the subway. I was soooo tired! This was not a good sign for the day to come. We were starting late and it was going to be a hotter day. I thought I had a good breakfast. I had oatmeal and 2 whole grain toasts but even that wasn’t enough to get me 2.50km to the darn subway! I had an energy gel on the subway as I couldn’t possibly eat anything. I was hoping that would be enough.

Even poor Rich was hurting today. We stopped after 20 something kilometres and he had something to eat. He said he was shaking all over. My god! We still had 100 more kms to go. I told him we’d stop every 20 kms for a rest and a snack.

It felt like forever getting to the 1st store. I’m not sure why this would be anyone’s favourite ride. There’s nothing pretty to see. Unless I’m just sick of seeing countryside farms. We were running out of water, energy, momentum and I really had to go to the washroom. Some of the hills were unbelievably steep that I had to walk up a couple. I just didn’t have the energy to keep going. I tried having a snack but I couldn’t even swallow my Lara bar. I started walking up another hill and I thought I saw a rider sitting in the shade under a tree. I thought I was seeing things. When we got up there, it was Suzanne. She said she wasn’t feeling very well and was waiting for the sweep. Did I mention the sweep did catch up to us but had to turn around and wait for a rider that went to the washroom at a golf course? We hung out with Suzanne for a bit and then continued on our way to try to find that store as we were now out of water and I really needed a washroom.

I didn't make it very far and I really had to use a washroom. I had no choice but to use the forest. Rich couldn't understand why I couldn't go just anywhere. I wanted to be in well in a forest where no one can see me. Men! I finally found a place and before it was too late, I'm pretty sure I was peeing over a snake hole. Wouldn't that be a great story to add to my collection of injuries! I got bit in the ass by a snake! Did I mention that I was holding our bikes earlier and my bike slipped and the crank scratched me and bruised me pretty bad? Someone asked if I got attacked by a wild animal. I should say that. Sounds silly saying I can't even stand still and hold 2 damn bikes and not hurt myself. I'm such a klutz!

We finally found that store and would you believe that they also didn't have a washroom? It’s becoming a pattern. I'm not an idiot. Where do they use the restroom? Even this week there was a big thing on the news where it's actually against the law to refuse someone to use the washroom (See article here). I didn’t want to buy anything from that store out of principle but we had ridden 25km with no store in sight so we had no choice! We had a little picnic which consisted of spicy pepperettes, dill picked chips, a banana, red bull and water. What a fantastic combination! At the time it tasted so good but now thinking back, I’m kinda grossed out. hehe We figured with all the breaks and how many times we stopped that the BBQ volunteers would be long gone.

63.02 KM and we arrived at the BBQ break. Soon after Liz arrived and then Todd. We were the last 4 riders to arrive at break. We were all hurting but we wanted to finish the ride so we took our time. Todd D. and his volunteers were just about ready to pack up. We got there in the nick of time. While we were at the BBQ, one of the sweeps called to say that someone was going back to the GO train with Suzanne. I felt for her. I really did as I felt the same but really wanted to finish even if it was 10pm. I was sick, burnt, exhausted but DETERMINED! We had our burgers, put more sunscreen and found public washrooms.

We rode most of the way together, took breaks when needed and then caught up. More hills but I don’t think I walked up any so that’s good. Lots of good downhills to get momentum up the hill. We all stopped at 90km and we thought for sure the sweep missed the BBQ stop and we were behind him but nope, in the distance, we saw this black figure come toward us. We really didn’t think it was him but it was. Figues the sweep in the back of us… again.. I hate this because I just want to go at my own speed but I know they don’t want to be out there all day/night and they can’t pass us so I’m forced to go fast and it’s hard sometimes.

The way back was a blur. We tried to keep it light hearted but I was in so much pain. Everything was cramping, especially my feet. I’m convinced it’s my stupid shoes because there’s someone else that has the same shoes and the same problem.

12k left in the ride and we were out of water again so luckily we were back in the city to find a gas station. Got some water, more pepperoni, Todd got some chocolate milk and Mike cooled off in the cooler.

At 7:14pm we finally arrived back at Kipling. What a long ass day! We were in trouble from the start of the day at 9:40am but we made it! Although we were exhausted, heat exhausted, sunburnt, and sore, we rode 245km this weekend! And guess what? We get to do the same darn rides next weekend! YAYYYYY!

Kennedy - Uxbridge - 117km

Saturday, July 5, 2008

Ride Description: This route takes you into the countryside north-east of Toronto where you'll pass by the Oak Ridges Moraine and acres of scenic farmland. Yes, it's hilly... but any climbing means that you'll eventually get to descend, which makes this ride quite exhilarating. Plus you get to stop for a break in the quaint little town of Uxbridge.

Stats:

Dst: 120.09km
Tm: 6:26.24
Odo: 866.17km
Mx: 50.80km
Av: 18.6km

Training Pics - Sponsor Me

We actually got sun for this ride! Can you believe it? I'm still in shock! I was expecting A LOT of hills on this ride but for the first 42km, it was pretty flat for the most part. It was a very comfortable morning. We got to the first break at Clairemont in record time. Does this ring a bell? This is where we took cover in that first storm we got caught in. We filled our water, emptied our bladders and hit the road to the 2nd break. I shouldn't have mentioned that the ride was enjoyable. That all changed after that break. There were long, hard hills that never ended. At one point, a few of us stopped to regroup. We met Joe again and he was with 2 other friends. We rode together the rest of the way to the BBQ lunch break. Poor Joe and Amy almost missed the stop and kept going. We had to yell after them. He would have been upset missing the BBQ.

We had another great lunch by Todd and his volunteers. They really save us on these long rides! It gives something to look forward to. After lunch, the 5 of us left together and then the
H-I-L-L-S they were talking about really began. I was waiting for my food to kick in and give me energy but it took a while. At one point, the 3 of them were well ahead of us and they missed the turn. It did say it was easy to miss and we almost missed it. Thank goodness for Rich keeping track on his bike computer. We backtracked a little and then crossed the street and continued. Poor Joe and friends!

I don't think it was necessarily humid but it was hot. It was our first training ride in the heat and it kicked my ass! After going up one long never ending hill in the direct sun, I started getting a huge headache and then I was dizzy and lightheaded. I really thought I was going to be sick so I pulled over in the first shady spot I could find. I took a few mins and then kept going. Then I saw a perfect place to sit in the shade. I sat in the shade for a bit and then a road safety crew stopped by to make sure we were ok. Not only do they volunteer for the actual ride but occasionally they show up at our training rides. These guys are great. Then another rider arrived and his legs were cramping big time. We had a little break in the shade and then the dreaded sweeps arrived. I knew it was only a matter of time until they showed up.

I'm not sure what was going on with Rich but he so hyper! He says it was all the pasta he ate the night before and that I should have eaten all mine. It's so hard to eat something you hate. Ugh!

By this point, we were running out of water so we had to get going and find a place. It's always harder to find stores on these longer rides. We finally find a convenience store and of course they say they have no washroom. I was so mad that I didn't buy water from that store. So infuriating! Luckily there was a gas station not too far where were able to get water and use the washroom.

In that time, the sweeps caught up to us again. I really lost we'd lose them but they spotted us and filled up as well. Vil must have been hurting pretty bad because we made good time back to the city and jumped on the subway at Midland. We knew we had another big day tomorrow so we opted out of the last 3-4km back to Kennedy. We waited a bit for the SRT and we still didn't see Vil or the sweeps go by. They must have been way back.

Thank goodness the ride started Kennedy. We only had 3 stops on the SRT and then 2 on the subway. I still had my massive headache and I still nauseous and shaking. I’m pretty sure I had some sort of heat exhaustion. I got home and took a nice, long cold shower. It felt so nice! I felt great afterwards. No more nausea or headache. J

Canadian Tire was having a great sale on camping stuff so I went out and got a tent, chair, mattress and flashlight. All under $90! I wanted to get a better tent but couldn’t justify paying $90 for a tent for this one event. We have a great tent that we regularly use for camping. This tent probably wouldn’t get much use to it. Yes, I do have most of this stuff from last year but stupid me left it at my mom’s and I figure it’ll cost $100 to drive there so might as well go out and buy this stuff again. At this point, we have so much camping gear that we can open up our own little store. Hehe not good….

Achieved Minimum Fundraising Goal!!!

Wow! As of June 30th at 6:37pm, I have achieved my minimum fundraising goal! Thank you to all my sponsors! Words can’t describe how much I appreciate every dollar and every word of encouragement. Thanks you! Thank you! Thank you!

Thanks to NorthgateArinso’s generous donation of $1000 on July 2nd, I decided I’m going to try to raise $3500 as my personal goal. It’s still early and there’s still time to sponsor me as we don’t leave for the ride for another few weeks.

Click here if you’d like to help me achieve my personal goal!

Little Ride Around the Island

Thursday, July 3, 2008

Sarah and I went for a ride around Centre Island. This was my first ride back after my training crippled me. That's right! I went back to her and she made me do a huge leg workout. The next day, I couldn’t get up on my own. I had to use Rich as a cane and he had to help me walk to the bathroom and back to the couch. I think I only have 1 more session with her and I think I’ll just let it go to waste. I can easily workout 2-3 days a week and ride my bike on weekends. When I’m working out with her, she pushes me so hard that I’m only working out 1 day a week and then I'm missing my rides on the weekend. I tried going back and it didn’t work out. I’ll do things on my own from now on.

I rode from my place in the Beaches to her place in King West. Then we took a ferry to the island rode around. I thought it would be busier but I'm glad it wasn't. There were still idiots or people who didn't speak English. You'd say "Passing on your left" and then they'd come into you on the left. *Idiots!* After awhile we got bored of dodging morons so we went and had a late lunch. Rode the ferry back to the city and then I went to meet Rich at the island airport parking. Yes, I should have ridden back for training purposes instead of getting a ride but I didn't feel like dealing with Beach traffic. My neighbourhood is a bike hazard during rush hour. You have to be in the right frame of mind for it.

Stats:

Dst: 34.11km
Tm: 2.04.14
Odo: 746.08km
Mx: 30.5km
Av: 16.5km