Old n Slow

2011-01-25T10:39:00.001-06:00

With the invention of and popularity of FACEBOOK - I'll no longer be using / updating this blog site. Thanks for checking in.

2010-10-13T09:42:00.002-05:00

Another year of mountain bike racing is in the books. Congratulation to Ben as he finished the season with 3 wins and many great results. He finished up the season in 3rd place overall in the Open Jr catagory.

Lynne & I also finished with good placings and look forward to next year.

John

2010-10-06T08:51:00.002-05:00

As we all pause to reflect on our lives after hearing the unfortunate news about one of our own yesterday, I suggest we all take pause and rethink our attitudes towards life, traffic, and our loved ones.

Peace!

2010-10-04T08:52:00.002-05:00

WOW - what a racing year it's been. And now with one more Mountain Bike race left on the calendar (Sheboygan) I can't believe it's almost over for another year. Friend Jim F wanted to know when I was going to update the blog again. This is it!

The summer racing went well for Lynne, Ben, and I. We had a blast out west at Nationals in Granby, Colorado. Ben and I then raced the Ore to Shore event in Marquette, Michigan. He took 34th overal and first in his age group. I raced Fat Tire Tire Fest with a goal to go under the 3 hour mark. Goal not made! With conditions being worse this year versus last year I've been told that my finishing time of one minute slower than last year was a pretty good result.

WORS racing has been fun this again. The Open Jr racers have been bringing their 'A' game and racing action has been fast and furious. Lynne and I have done well at many of the WORS events with Lynne taking third this year and me finishing fourth.

Cyclo-cross action began this past weekend for Ben as he raced the WCA Domes race and finished 2nd in the Jr's and around 6th or 7th in Cat 4 men's race - after t-boning a fellow racer that had crashed in front of him and flipping over the bars. Working hard at getting through the crowd lap by lap was a good learning experience for him.

Next up is the Grafton Cyclo-cross and WORS Sheboygan races this weekend. I may even attempt the Grafton race! Until next time.

2010-05-01T09:42:00.001-05:00

A new race season is upon us. Heading to Iola after a fun night at The Team Extreme ToAD fund raiser last night. You can view a couple of the pictures here.

2010-01-01T18:36:00.002-06:00

Photos from today's New Year's Day Bi-Polar plunge have been uploaded to the flicker site.

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!

John

2009-12-14T13:09:00.001-06:00

It's been a while and just to touch base - Winter appears to have settled in for good - Santa Rampage was a blast on Saturday. Once I get my photos off loaded from the camera I'll share with you all.

John

2009-10-12T21:35:00.001-05:00

Oh yes - the flicker site has been updated with the new Sheboygan pictures from Sunday's race - the site can be accessed by clicking on any of the past flicker links below.

2009-10-12T21:31:00.002-05:00

A photo taken at the Bear Paw WORS race - when asked how do you guys do this crazy racing stuff I can show them this picture - Let the force be with you. Look Mom no need to keep the eyes open!

2009-10-05T09:16:00.001-05:00

New pictures are up and ready for your viewing pleasure on the Flickr Site slideshow - WORS - Bear Paw 2009.

2009-09-28T07:11:00.002-05:00

Photos from this past weekend's racing are up on FLICKR - Fall Fest & USGP Cyclocross.

2009-09-20T20:05:00.002-05:00

Wow! What a difference a year and good weather conditions make.

Lynne and I raced the Chequamegon Fat Tire Fest yesterday.

After previewing the infamous Fire Tower Hill on Friday we were stoked for the race.

We awoke to dry and cool conditons with forecasted highs in the low to mid 70's. We both enjoyed the race with Lynne finishing in 3 hours 23 minutes and change. I finished in 3 Hours 5 minutes and change which was 27 minutes faster than last year. If you all remember Lynne had broken her collar bone last year 4 weeks prior to this race and couldn't partake in the cold / wet fun! Now she knows what it's like to race in almost perfect conditions.

Pictures to come out on our flickr page so check back soon for a link.

2009-09-14T21:53:00.002-05:00

Racing this weekend went well - especially since both Ben & I were sick with a pretty nasty head-colds - hopefully mine will be gone by this weekend and Fat Tire Fest.

Photos from WORS race # 10 - TREADFEST - at Lake Geneva - the 'old' Playboy club property - have been uploaded to flickr.

Lynne - 3rd in age group

Ben 1st in age group and 3rd overall

John 1st in age group - first time I ever placed this high in a WORS race.

2009-09-01T11:00:00.001-05:00

Reforestration Ramble pictures have been uploaded to Flickr site:

Save the link and check back frequently for more updates.

John

2009-08-03T08:37:00.004-05:00

Being a parking Nazi rocks! I had a blast helping out at Alterra's rendition of the WORS circus. Team Extreme came through again. We helped and assisted no fewer than half a dozen racers through out the day. It gives me a good feeling inside to help out when we can. You guys Rock! And to top it off, our fearless leader Capt. Randy gets huge face / interview time on the local Fox affiliate - TV 6 at 10 PM.

My photos (taken mostly be Ben) are posted and up for your enjoyment.

2009-07-28T12:16:00.002-05:00

Made it safe and sound back from Boulder and our climbing adventure for this year.

Photos have been uploaded to my flickr site for viewing. Click on the hyperlink.

Roosevelt National Wilderness Area Climbing Trip 2009

2009-07-20T21:00:00.001-05:00

SUNBURST PHOTOS UPLOADED TO FLICKR SITE

2009-07-20T12:56:00.001-05:00

Sunburst race update:

Ben 1st in age group - 6th overall (180 or so participants)

John 6th in age group and 115th overall

Lynne unfortunately could attend - we all know she would have rocked the climbs!

Photos to be uploaded to the flickr site tonight.

2009-07-07T08:50:00.003-05:00

A big thanks to Russell for another memorable July 4th.

What do you get when you put to great heads together?

Drinking beer from a licorice straw? Nothing finer!

Safety first!

Blinky Butt - drinking beer from a licorice straw from Katy. Tosa's finest by Bubba (I think??).

2009-06-29T10:46:00.003-05:00

The TOOL trying to figure out which end is up.

2009-06-28T22:26:00.001-05:00

Yours truly made the report from WORS on the SUBARU CUP RACE.

Scroll down on the link above.

2009-06-28T22:23:00.000-05:00

Paul Traeger's photos - SUBARU CUP 2009

2009-06-22T10:36:00.001-05:00

http://www.flickr.com/photos/25645729@N07/sets/72157620106331377/

Latest race photos are updated.

John

2009-06-19T08:23:00.002-05:00

We're alive! That's all I got for now - that storm rolled through last night was a real doozy!

It started around 11 PM and When it finally started to die down it was around 2 AM or so.

The local TV station was saying at 2 AM that West Allis had received 4.7" of rain so far - with 3.5" falling in the 1 - 2 o'clock hour. Streets flooded, water in basements, rivers have overflowed their banks.

Good news? More on the way for this afternoon. Yippee Skippee!

2009-06-18T08:49:00.003-05:00

Ben wins a couple photo contest catagories in the WORS photo competition in addition to doing very well in the races themselves, he's now an award winning photographer too!

Contest announcement

2009-06-11T09:18:00.002-05:00

Photos from this past weekend's WORS race in Wausau have been uploaded to my Flickr site.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/25645729@N07/

Enjoy!

2009-06-01T15:15:00.002-05:00

Rhinelander Crystal Lake Classic - classic indeed! The Boy Scout camp opens it's doors for another weekend in the WORS circus tour. While the blue train was in full force we were a force to recon with. Congratulations to all who made the trip north (Megan, Keith, Mark, Chris, Travis, Jack, Paul, Sue, Mike, and those few others that I have yet to remember your names - SORRY!).

Race # 2 report for us:

Ben finishes 2nd in his age group - finishing 22 overall SPORT.

Lynne finishes 7th out of 9 in her age group - 16 out of 25 women Sport riders.

John finishes - enough said right! 7th out of 10 age grouper old guys - in top 100 of 135 total finishers in SPORT. That hasn't happened for a while!

Weather was terrific if not a bit cool for spectators. I found it great for racing. Next up is the Big Ring Classic in Wausau. Here's to another great course! No pictures to post. Check out Lynne's facebook for a couple of photos shee was able to take.

Drizzle and light rain began to fall during the middle of the Pro / Comp event - just enough from what I heard, to knock the dust down. A thrilling sprint to the finish by Brian Matter and Jesse LaLonde to top it all off. Multiple gears win this round.

2009-05-26T13:47:00.002-05:00

Having missed out on all the fun team ride on Saturday (May 23) a small group of us headed out to the Tosa & Harley trails for a couple of hours on Sunday afternoon.

Next up Rhinelander WORS race.

2009-05-22T12:04:00.001-05:00

Best of luck to Christiine & Ty as Ty mends after a road ride crash.

Thoughts & prayers to you both!

John & Lynne

2009-05-20T10:20:00.001-05:00

http://www.flickr.com/photos/25645729@N07/?saved=1

more photos on my flickr site here.

2009-05-20T08:32:00.009-05:00

Update:

The first mountain bike race of the season occurred this past weekend Sunday in Iola Wisconsin. The WORS dirt circus invaded this tiny town and the course rocked! Team Extreme was out in force.

Lynne finished 4th in her age group.

Ben finished 2nd in his age group.

I finished 7th in my age group.

As we checked our results a strange pattern seemed to be occurring. We all finished in the top 50% of our respective age groups. Weird.

First Time trial race of the year tonight at Crystal Ridge. Registration opens at 5:30 with racing to begin at 6:30. See you there.

Next up Rhinelander.

2009-04-23T08:04:00.002-05:00

It's been way to long since last updating. Many things going on but nothing all that important or interesting for you all.

Drew has had another shoulder surgery. Same as last time but the left shoulder now. He's on the mend and doing better.

Ben has been running on the Tosa East track team and is doing well. He's run the open 200 and the open 400 so far. His times are fair (25.7 & 58.9). He's also really pumped up about the upcoming mountain bile season. He's in prime shape now and I wonder how many times he'll pass my up during a race.

Lynne's been doing more running this off-season. She's aiming for the Door County half-marathon as a first race. She too is in great shape.

I look forward to the new team kits arriving any day. The blue train will continue this year.

That's all for now.

2009-02-10T21:24:00.002-06:00

A short video from last weekend. Riding the power-lines in the U.P. of Michigan.

2009-01-30T14:26:00.003-06:00

Going Vegan? They have better sex by themselves using veggies?

Let's make some hottub soup!

I might also have to buy a Dodge too while I'm at it.

Who's gonna win the SB? my pick - Steelers in a romp. We'll see.

2009-01-07T13:05:00.002-06:00

Well well, it's been a hectic holiday around our house. I broke a bone in my left ankle the first Saturday of December which has laid me up for a while. I'm just now getting back into the gym. Having been away from the gym for almost 5 weeks, this week I'm trying to get back into the workout routine. The ankle is resisting some.

My Holiday was not as interesting as this guy's!

Ben & Lynne were in Paris with the Tosa Band Marching as part of their New Year's Celebration. They returned last Saturday and are in the process of trying to re-acclimate themselves to Central time.

Happy New Year everyone - see ya for now.

John

2008-12-23T10:53:00.003-06:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS everyone!

Nothing much new around here - other than I broke a bone in my ankle a couple weeks ago. While downclimbing from a converted playgym I slipped and fell about 4 - 6 feet onto a buried log in the snow. I landed in such a manner that basically I have a severe spain of the left ankle. But, a tendon that connects to the bottom of the Fibula tore a chunk of bone away instead of tearing the tendon itself. Lucky me! It's been a couple of weeks of hobbling around and things are getting better. I can now walk mostly limp free.

My buddy at work has a place in the Sparta area and his kid has had one heck of a hunt this year. One buck bowhunting and one gun hunting. LUCKY KID!

Tosa East HS is packing up and readying themselves for their Trip to Paris for the New Years marching gig.

Good luck to all and Happy New Year too. More next year.

2008-11-25T06:59:00.002-06:00

Deer Hunt 2008

This year's hunt started of on a cold note. It was -5 degrees on opening morning. I was able to stay in my stand until 10 AM at which point I headed back to my camp. I packed it all up - it was all frozen anyways, and headed down to Wild Rose to finish out opening day.

I was lucky enough to shoot this Doe at 3PM. We registered it and I was on my way back to MKE by 5 PM.

Now it's hanging in the garage waiting to be butchered - that's tonight's job. The local paper is saying reported numbers of kills are down 25% or so overall for opening morning - they blame the weather and extended hunting opportunities. I think the increased wolf population is doing it's job.

Loaded up and safely tied down.

2008-11-10T12:33:00.003-06:00

It's been quite some time since my last post and much has occured. I found this interesting as it relates to the newly elected president. For everyone looking for change here's some food for thought

Additionally, as the US Congress and House of Reps have been controlled by the Dems for the past two years, how is it that all of our problems facing the nation are related to Bush???

Now we have a Democratic President and a Democratic controlled Congress and House - how are things going to change for the better? More taxes - cool! Less military spending - cool! Stockmarket taking a dump - cool! Making friends with our enemies - cool! I'm now looking forward to my government providing all the things I need to live now - Just saying....

Fellow Business Executives:

My business employees 14 people, I have resigned myself to the fact that Barrack Obama is our next President, and that our taxes and government fees will increase in a BIG way.

To compensate for these increases, I figure that the Clients will have to see an increase in our fees to them of about 8% but since we cannot increase our fees right now due to the dismal state of our economy, we will have to lay off six of our employees instead. This has really been eating at me for a while, as we believe we are family here and I didn't know how to choose who will have to go.

So, this is what I did. I strolled thru our parking lot and found 6 Obama bumper stickers on our employees' cars and have decided these folks will be the first to be laid off. I can't think of a more fair way to approach this problem. These folks wanted change; I gave it to them.

If you have a better idea, let me know.

2008-10-09T15:54:00.003-05:00

We were out for dinner with Candy & Rob & Randy & Erica & Tessa too last night. We ate at AGAVE - a newly opened restaurant on Capitol Drive just east of Brookfield Road.

We had a great meal and gopod conversation to boot!

Now it's time for the final WORS race of the year at Sheboygan. Bring it on!

2008-09-29T19:23:00.005-05:00

Race weekend in Shawano, WI.

John

Very Dusty course

Ben

Lynne didn't race - so she volunteered.

2008-09-26T08:04:00.003-05:00

End of the week updates:

Lynne's been out on her road bike for the first time since the crash.

She & I hit the local trail in Tosa a couple of times this past week too.

Ben's been really giving his all at football the past couple of weeks. Too bad they don't have enough kids out for the team which means they can't play a JV schedule. This week they only had 4 kids to play lineman positions and a scrimmage was cancelled.

We're heading up to race our second last WORS race this weekend - located in Shawano. Lynne will be volunteering and NOT racing. Ben & I will be racing - coming toward the end of our season.

More later....

2008-09-17T18:18:00.002-05:00

XRAYS are here! Healing nicely according to the Dr.

(1) Plate

(9) screws

Bone broken into four pieces

Great Dr to repair our booboos - priceless!

2008-09-03T14:04:00.004-05:00

Lynne had a Dr appointment today and had the the bandages & stitches removed. He's still concerned about an infection at the surgical site. She's back on the bike as it's attached to the trainer in the front room. She took a couple of self-portraits too.

First one - looks painful indeed.

And another with a slightly different angle. No real bruising seems to be evident. Swelling seems to be non-existant too.

2008-08-29T12:51:00.001-05:00

Now I think the election is going to get interesting!

WOW!

2008-08-23T20:16:00.002-05:00

Well Lynne had the surgery to repair the collar bone today (1 plate and 4 -6 screws to repair) and the first person she talks to is her Mom - natural enough. Thank God for cell phones!

She's staying the night for observation - the pain was intensifying as the boys and I left the hospital. She's in great hands. The following photos are from a time prior to the medications from surgery wearing off. Notice the smile on her face - not there anymore :(

No X-rays to share as of yet.

2008-08-22T21:47:00.002-05:00

Posted Update tonight:

Lynne is scheduled for surgery tomorrow morning (8/23) 9:30 to repair her broken collar bone. The same Dr who reworked Andrew's shoulder is doing hers too.

I heard that at sometime or another a cyclist will endure a broken collar bone. Tristen finally had his too this year and also needed surgery. Lynne is in good company. I'm guessing her right shoulder will look very similar to his. Her X-rays showed at least four main pieces. Thanks to all who have written, called, or generally passed along good wishes.

John

2008-08-22T14:44:00.002-05:00

Today was shower day - heading to the Dr this afternoon for a followup visit. A couple of quick shots to give you an idea what she's dealing with.

Good side

Bad side

You can probably see the slight discoloration and the slight protrusion of the bone on her right collar bone. YUCKY!

Thanks to all for their good wishes and thoughts!

2008-08-21T15:35:00.002-05:00

It's really amazing how much the new helmets stay together after they're busted up a bit. They don't call them brain buckets for nothing.

You may or may not see the crack on the helmet, thankfully she was wearing one!

How the Dr's remove clothing from injured riders: I'll call this one "Surgical Jersey".

2008-08-21T12:02:00.004-05:00

Well, if you haven't heard already, Lynne crashed last night at our weekly mtn bike race in Franklin. Here are a couple of photos too.

Concussion and right collar bone busted.

Post Percocet snoozing:

Face rash to the max:

2008-08-19T10:19:00.002-05:00

Earlier this summer I had the great furtune of meeting a climbing Sherpa from Nepal. In June, during my trip west to attempt to climb Mt Hood & Mt Rainier, I stayed at Whittaker's Bunkhouse on the final day. If you remember, I stayed there during last year's uneventful trip to Rainier too.

This summer after visiting Paradise and taking many photos prior to the storm moving in which thwarted our journey, my climbing partner and I headed back to Whittaker's for our last night in the mountains. While hanging out at the snack bar area Mike pointed to this fellow standing in line and mentioned he looked familar. I went up to speak with him and introduced myself.

He gave me one of his cards and we conversed a bit - quite difficult for a midwestern boy with little exposure to the outside world. It turned out to be Lhakpa Gelu Sherpa - considered by many to be one of the SUPER SHERPAS. I consider myself extremely thankful for this chance meeting - I even received his autograph on the business card. Unfortunately I had left the camera back in the room and don't have a photo to go with the story. Sorry. At some point I intend to get the Mt Rainier map and the business card framed for a token keepsake. My brush with fame was so fleeting, yet I really feel a connection to this fellow. After all I did buy he and his fellow guides a round of beers - for which they were much abliged.

2008-08-08T10:06:00.004-05:00

Not much new happening around here the last couple of weeks as we have settled into our summer routine.

Lynne - Started back at St Joe's in L&D this week. After 2 + years working away from patients at corporate headquarters she found out how much she missed taking care of patients and has returned to bedside nursing.

Drew - he's preparing for life in the real-world (if you can call life at college REAL). We're preparing to send him out on his own as we intend to move him into his dorm room on August 25th. He's still hanging out with Jenni and enjoying the last summer home. We rarely see him as he is either working or gone with friends.

Ben - He's been participating in summer weight workouts for Tosa East football in addition to participating in his first year of mountain bike racing in the WORS series. Both activities have him at or near peak physical condition. He really is quite quick on the bike and I am looking forward to next year already and him racing in sport class with Lynne & I. Football begins on August 12th and we're looking forward to watching the high schoolers play.

John - having had a less than productive spring (hamstring injuries really do take quite some time to heal) I'm just now getting into some sort of fitness. Having a new job and all that is associated with that has also been challenging. Soon we'll be getting the sleds ready for another wonderful winter season. Already, the amount of daylight is dwindling and temps are moderating a bit.

Preiding tonight at Sunburst for the upcoming race this weekend, then volunteering at the Brewers game concession stand for church on Saturday night, and then racing WORS on Sunday at Sunburst. Not much going on right?

Congrats to my little sister and her husband - they're having a boy! Poor Grandma S -not many girls to go around.

That's all for now. Oh yah, 21st wedding aniversary this month too. Who could forget that?

2008-07-15T07:10:00.004-05:00

Pictures from Danskin Race

2008-07-14T12:01:00.010-05:00

Well, it has been a while since my last post so let's get caught up.

The climbing trip went well. Flights were on-time. Climbed Mt Hood to an elevation of around 10,500 feet. Not making the summit was a bummer. But I was able to a great photo of Mt Hood's shadown as the sun rose.

A combination of elevation gain, travel induced exhaustion, and my hamstring injury which prevented me from getting into top shape all conspired to keep me from the top. As every one says 'making it to the top in optional, making back down is mandatory'. The weather was fairly good for the Hood portion of our trip eventhough it was quite windy and cold at higher elevations. We guessed that the winds were gusting to over 30 MPH and temps in the low 20's. Wintery feeling nerver-the-less as experinced by my buddy Mike who is bundled up during a climbing break.

Me taking a break at the Hogsback on Hood just prior to turning around.

But the weather was forecasted to turn really ugly for our Mt Rainier portion of the trip as this photo can attest to. I took this photo on Saturday morning on our way to SETAC to fly home. Good call on our part. The forecast was for increasing winds, heavy snows, and avalanch dangers. We figured it was better to not head up into the storm and getting pinned down, for who knows how long, by the nasty stuff than to head for home.

So, after we re-booked flights, stayed at Whitiker's Bunkhouse for our last night, and enjoyed our last day in the mountains being tourists.

We visited Rainier's visitor center and the original lodge on Friday June 20th - which was not open last year due to renovations. Did I forget to tell you that Rainier had been receiving heavy spring snows with estimated 190" on the ground at the visitor center.

Is it a snow Devil or a snow Duck??? You be the judge.

We flew back home on Saturday June 21st. I made it home around 8 PM Saturday evening. I packed up my race kit in anticipation of heading to Green Bay for a WORS race on Sunday morning.

The GB Race went as well as can be expected after having blown up out on Hood only a couple of days prior. Lynne did quite well and if any of you have spoken to her recently she'll be more than happy to tell you she beat me by 2 + minutes in that race.

Since then we've been busy training for future races. One of which was Lynne's first triathon yesterday in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin. She finished 429 out of 3650 women racers. This is a women's only event making it feel more comfortable for those ladies that might be a bit too intimidated having men racing alongside with them. It was the midwest version of The Danskin Triathlon Series. Congrats to her on a great finish!

2008-06-16T14:18:00.002-05:00

Two Days and counting until I leave for the west coast and a climbing trip to Mt Hood & Mt Rainier. Last weekend while we were having torrential rains, the Cascades received 30 + inches of snow. The skiers and snowboards have been loving every minute of it.

You check the Mt Rainier web cam facing the mountain here.

The Web cam facing down the valley away from the parking lot at Paradise here.

The Web cam facing the parking lot here - I'm not certain what car we'll be getting as a rental otherwise you could have checked to see where we are parked.

The web cam and conditions at Timberline Lodge at Government Camp (Mt Hood) here.

Packing and getting ready for the trip tonight - wish me luck!

2008-06-08T16:20:00.004-05:00

6-07-08 Another day that Tosan's will remember for a long time.

These photos were taken at the 70th Street bridge at Menomonee River just east of Hart Park - facing east then west towards the village area and Hart Park. The lights in the background are located at the parking lot for Hart Park. Shortly after we took these pictures, police shut down the area and kicked everyone off the bridge. Some people just don't realize how quickly things can change into something really ugly.

Click this link for Tosa flood video

Flood Video

2008-06-02T07:18:00.002-05:00

Final Big Ring Picture of Ben - at the beginning of his race. 5th in age class and 23rd overall in Citizen. Way to go Ben!

Thanks to Dave Reich for having the proper camera equipment which enables him to take photos of moving objects without getting a blurry image.

2008-06-01T21:00:00.001-05:00

Pictures from this weekend's race in Wausau - The Big Ring Classic

2008-05-22T21:27:00.007-05:00

2008-05-19T07:29:00.002-05:00

Another WORS is in the books for this season. Lynne was able to overcome her fears out on the course to take first in her age group. Ben too had a very exciting race as he broke a chain link only 1 to 2 miles into the race and had to DNF. Too bad for him as he really looked good at the start. He left the start / finish line and powered up the hill. He was in 5th or 6th place as he descended that first hill and headed out to do battle out on the course. He was really disappointed as he walked back to the team demo tent. Here are a couple of pictures.

John

2008-05-17T19:39:00.002-05:00

Nearly 2 weeks of recuperation on the old hamstring and headed down to Lake Geneva to pre-ride the WORS course. I didn't have any real problems but at times I could feel the stress was too much and needed to back down a bit. Those quick hitter hills just after a quick downhill section really cause the most discomfort. Lynne and Ben got a good idea what they have ahead of them tomorrow. I on the other hand am not racing as I can only imagine trying to keep up with some of the back markers (as usual in my case)and be somewhat competitive could put a hurting to the old leg. 2 weeks until the climbing trip and I don't want to jinx that either.

John

2008-05-07T07:57:00.001-05:00

Injured my hamstring last night at a church sponsored softball game.

Out of commission for a bit.

John

2008-05-04T19:56:00.003-05:00

Lynne has begun another year with a kick A$$ start - she took second in her first Sport race of the year at the WORS race #1 in Iola Wisconsin.

Ben charging down the hill in his first and hopefully not last race of the year - he is now signed up as a series rider and his points earned will count towards Team Extreme's total. He finished 5th out of an undetermined amount of contestants - as of this posting - updates later.

A couple of the Extreme Posse before the start of the 15 - 16 age group Citizen race.

Lynne & Ben before they headed out to warm up for the big day.

Next race in two weeks in Lake Geneva. Updates when the results are posted out on the WORS site.

John

2008-05-02T09:05:00.003-05:00

Went out for a quick ride with Ben last night after dinner. We ran into Ty & Kristina from Team Alterra on the Hoyt Trails. The trails were in great shape. Now it's game on for the weekend in Iola for the first WORS race of the year. Nothing like racing ones self back into shape as conditions this spring have been trying to say the least.

John

2008-04-22T07:32:00.002-05:00

Another week and another crisis of sorts. Lynne received a bike fitting over the weekend at the shop - Thanks Karrie!

Now she's so fast and confident I don't know what to do with her. Look out all you aport women riders.

After flatting on the first two rides of the year, we have successfully navigated through a few more trips without incident.

Plans are progressing for the climbing trip this summer. Now it looks as if we'll be doing a twofer trip - Mt Hood and Mt Rainier. Details are being formulated.

2008-04-17T20:34:00.003-05:00

Another ride today and another flat for Lynne - this time a large thorn in her front tire.

Well that's two for two in her case. Let's hope this isn't a sign of things to come.

On another note: I received my climbing pass for Mount Rainier to day. Two months until I leave for this year's trip.

John

2008-04-15T19:38:00.004-05:00

Lynne & I were out for the second time in two days - YIPPEE!

Lynne getting her groove on with her new ride!

The new pink ride is finally getting broken in - literally that is.

While riding through the Hoyt trails Lynne was able to find one of the many discarded relics from age old Tosa town. A 2" piece of old nail or something of that sort punctured the rear tire - dead centered it actually.

Here she is while waiting patiently for the mechanic to finish up the repairs. Is it done yet?

That makes for 2 out of 6 rides this year with flat tires.

With the upcoming forecasted nice weather we should be out again tomorrow too!

Until next time ->)

2008-03-26T20:34:00.002-05:00

Lynne and I have had our check for registration deposited for Cheq. Fat Tire Fest. It looks like we're in.
Now we wait for the official notifiction to arrive via USPS.

On the fun side - I took a VO2 sub-max test yesterday at the WAC. This test is used to find the 90% heart rate of a subject. Then as part of the testing a 2 month long workout is developed based on the 90% rate. My 90% rate was measured at 178 bpm. As part of the testing the subject is given a score that takes into account breathing - oxyegen usage - heart rate - etc... my score was 49 - it was explained that a normal / regular club member that partakes has a score of mid-30's and well-trained athletes at 59 or so. I figure that my score isn't too bad for an old guy like me right?

John

2008-03-21T21:27:00.002-05:00

Well Tosa East boys bball won the division one state tournament a couple weeks ago. Local celebrtions have bben had and are now relegated to the memory banks. The weather had been steadily improving until this guy flipped of Olde Man Winter. Thanks for nuttin' Ruskel. It's gonna take a while for this to melt.

John

2008-03-02T17:55:00.003-06:00

First outdoors ride of the new year today - spent quite a bit more time down in the dungeon cleaning and drying off the bike. THANK GOD some of those cars needed to drive so close that they were able to splash me too!

I find it amazing how much different a ride outside feels compared to a spin session a the WAC.

Track season starts at East High tomorrow. It is my hope that Ben excels like his dear old Dad did. I can't make him fast or anything, but hope he uses the training offered to better his fitness level. Boy, I wish it was me getting ready for track season - it was the only sport I was good at back then. :(

Congratulation go out to the East HS boys basketball team on advancing to the Wisconsin State Basketball tournament which starts in Madison on Thursday. Tosa plays at 8 PM - the schedule / brackets here.

John

2008-02-23T08:41:00.004-06:00

Hey there from Munising Michigan!

Up on the south shore of Lake Superior for a little water ice climbing for the weekend.

Nothing like a little cross-training right?

Weather conditions are expected to be quite nice for today's outing. Early temps being a bit chilly (8 degrees) and by the time we hit the trail the temp should be 20 degreees or so. Right now its beautifully sunny as I look out across the bay from the Sunset Hotel towards the town of Munising. We had a gorgeous sunset last night as this hotel is appropriately named.

Ice fisherman are already out on the lake ice. Fishing shanties dot the surface out there.

Until next time.

John

2008-02-18T21:36:00.002-06:00

Did you happen to watch the TV coverage of the Hawaii Ironman Triathlon? What a race it was. And to think we here in Wisco have only a couple more months of snow and ice until most of us can get out on the bikes. Sad isn't it?

Coverage also began on Versus of the Tour of California.

It must be getting closer to spring - right?

Tony Stewart failed to win the Daytona 500 but not without a fight.

Team Extreme had its first organizational meeting of the new year this past weekend. There were about 35 - 40 riders that comprise the mountain bike and road teams. Everyone is looking fit and ready to bust it up out on the course.

That's all for now. Oh yes, I forgot to let you know that it is once again snowing here in Tosaland.

2008-02-05T07:52:00.000-06:00

WHITE DEATH ALERT!

The weather prognosticators are saying we are in line for another 7 - 10 inches tonight and tomorrow.

Cool! Bring it on. The local news people are in a frenzy over this and we, as true north country people, we are use to this type of weather right? No big deal.

Spun at the WAC last night with the local cycling ' tool '. I've been working on revising my spin bike set up and, with his assistance, seem to be dialing it in.

Three months until GO time - check out the schedule at WORS.

Until next time.

John

2007-11-18T21:00:00.002-06:00

Update of the week - wow - what a week it's been - lost my job due to slow economy and bad realestate markets on November 11th - headed up to deer camp on Friday Nov 16 - opening day has come and is gone already - very slow out in the woods - very little shooting around us in the Harrison Hills area east of Tomahawk. Saw two flashes of deer skipping out of their bedding areas today Sunday Nov 18th.

I guess not all is wrong with the world - the Pakers won for the 9th time.

More later.

John

2007-10-29T09:42:00.000-05:00

Again, not much going on this past weekend but here are a few updates:

Drew - the varsity football team lost on Saturday afternoon to Waterford HS - so East is out of the playoffs for this year. They have yet to advance beyond round two ever in the history of the modern playoff system. Better luck to next year's team.

Ben - his team finished up their footbal season by losing to Riverside in a freshman / sophomore team match up. I think Ben had a good season this year having played many minutes on both sides of the ball. He had a couple fumble recoveries and a couple of kick returns to boot. He's looking forward to the weightroom opening up so he can begin preparations for next year.

Lynne and I and Ben went for a bike ride yesterday (10/28) out on the bike path from Theinsville to Cedarburg. We stopped at Ben's old friend's home (Tony Mandela) and as luck would have it Tony wasn't home but thankfully his Dad arrived as we were just preparing to hit the trail. We talked a while - it was good to see past acquaintances again. It appears that the Cedarburg freshman team lost only one game this year and are poised to do major damage next year.

Lynne and I took Kirby for a walk along the Tosa biking trails and he had a blast jumping into and out of the river playing fetch and chase the ducks. Boy did he smell like a nasty wet dog after all of that - wait a minute - he was a nasty wet dog.

And after all of that Drew, Jenni - girlfriend, and Ben and Lynne took out the old photoalbums and had a blast looking at all the pictures from our family's past. Lots of laughing and pointing of fingers - all appeared to have a good time of it. Wow do the years fly by!

That's all for now - see ya!

2007-10-24T10:26:00.000-05:00

New post - not much going on in our little piece of the world.

Lynne - Lynne and I headed up to Stevens Point last weekend to attent the WORS end of the year banquette. Lynne scored a Cliff BAR / SHOT swag bag. Added to that she took home first place age group in the Marathon Series and in the Cross Country Series.

Team Extreme took home Team Participation and Competition awards for the unlimited team catagory.

Drew - the Tosa East Varsity football team ended their season with two losses (1 to Brook Central & the other to Sussex) finishing with a 6 - 3 overall record. They had clinched a state tournament playoff berth the week prior to the Brook Central game. In their first playoff game last night they won quite convincingly vs. Westosha Central. Up next is the second round game vs Waterford to be contested Saturday (10/27).

Ben - his Tosa East freshman team finished their year off having no wins. Disappointing? Yes. Ben really was given a good opportunity to play and show what he can do this year. He played Defensive Outside Linebacker and Offensive Wide receiver. A combined Sophomore / Freshman team plays Wednesday evening in a rain out makeup game vs. Riverside - this game is actually a rescheduled JV game with no juniors playing.

Me - having a so so year on the racing front (mountain biking) I'm already in training mode for another big year in 2008. Two climbing trips are planned - one to Colorado and the other to Mount Hood. In addition I'm thinking about trying to get back into a couple of duathlons or triathlons next year as well. I'll see how the knees hold out with an increase in the amount of running that is required.

2007-09-23T20:56:00.000-05:00

Iola Part II

This might be the last race for me this year. Yikes! 18 out of 23 finishers in my age group. I completely bonked at the 2 3/4 mark. No power in the legs - they would spin but as soon as I tried to get into a bigger gear and power down, they just weren't up to the effort.

Unique ways to carry an empty bottle?

Dejected and done.

The obligatory speed shot.

Lynne getting another first place medal - definitly upgrading next year.

2007-09-20T22:33:00.001-05:00

Well - it's been a while since I last posted. Sorry.

Ben's freshman team at Wauwatosa East lost their third game in a row tonight.

Currently they are 0-3. Mean while Drew's team lost last week to a very good team from Marquette HS, they have a 3 - 1 record.

Tomorrow the Varsity plays a good team from Menomonee Falls. Racing again this weekend in Iola - I am not certain if this course really is all that hard - but my memory seems to be telling me that there is little time to recover.

See ya all at the TaterBake.

Rumor has it OJ was in Vegas for a wedding. Did someone tip him off with some incorrect info and he was really supposed to really be in Reno with Russkle? Just a thought.

2007-09-09T20:58:00.000-05:00

Sunburst Showdown Photos and results: Lynne takes another first place in her age group, third overall women citizen class / John 11 out of 18 in his age group.

Cool and calm before the race.

John receives a call up - he must be in the front row!

Lynne chilling after receiving her first place medal - maybe I should race Sport next year?

2007-08-26T21:26:00.000-05:00

Lynne getting her first place medal at this weekend's Smokin' Spoke WORS Marathon race in Rhinelander Wisconsin.

With a win she has wrapped up the marathon series - first place in her age group - citizen class.

Congrats Lynne!

2007-08-21T16:14:00.000-05:00

Here we go again!

WORS to move on to the next venue - drought conditions most of the summer.

Rain predicted for 8/21 & 8/23. With dry conditions predicted for well into next week. Can it be too good to be true? I ordered new mud tires from the shop today so that pretty much means it will be dry, right?

God only knows!

2007-08-20T22:19:00.000-05:00

As I mentioned in the last post the conditions were horrible - If I didn't say it then, I'm saying it now.

Here a a couple of pictures courtesy of RUSTY

We may have a new addition to our bike family - Lynne might be getting this one: thanks Randy for the picture which was taken at TREK World this past week. The new ride is a Fisher HiFi Deluxe GS (2008 model - not available on the market as of yet) I believe

2007-08-20T07:20:00.000-05:00

WOW! What a race we had on Saturday in Mt. Morris. Experts went out first at 12 PM. It started to drizzle shortly there after. The Rain fluctuated from light to moderate for the remainder of the afternoon and races. Lynne was able to finish her rain shortened event of 1.5 laps in first place (only woman in her age group to start) and third overall out of 20 or so.

I finished! And that's all I needed to do. The course was in aweful shape with most of the wooded switchback climbing and descending trails being too muddy and greasy for riding. Hike-a-bike was the plan of the day. Rolling the machine along in some areas only caused more hurt than it was worth. Mud adhered itself to the tires like dough. Stopping often to clean things up led to racers passing only to be passed once they stopped to clean their steed.

Oh well, I can only hope things in Rhinelander are better. See you there.

Sorry, no pictures as of yet. Maybe Bubba has some to share- http://www.casadebubba.blogspot.com/

2007-08-16T13:59:00.000-05:00

Naturally! The central Wisconsin area has been receiving little to no rain and are in drought conditions. WORS plans a gig and there goes the drought! Can we trust the five day outlook?

Bring your rain gear - maybe we won't need it.

2007-08-13T10:31:00.000-05:00

Racing this upcoming weekend at Mt Morris, course description here at MTB GIRLS'S blog. Mt Morris is located west of Oshkosh and south of Waupaca and northeast of Wautoma - map here.

Rain totals from Saturday 8/11 moring - Sunday 8/12 moring:
HI LO precip
WAUSHARA WILD ROSE-6NE-TWIN LKS 89 68 0.35
WAUSHARA WAUTOMA-4 N 89 63 1.03
WAUSHARA WAUTOMA-1 SW-DNR* 86 63 1.46

Daily updates can be found here: scroll down to find WAUSHARA County information

I'm hoping the area gets a bit of rain this week to knock the dust down. We wouldn't want to end up looking like this guy. Sorry about that! I didn't want to scare you off!

John

2007-08-07T15:02:00.001-05:00

Raced WORS race # 7 last weekend and of course it had to rain during the overnight period Saturday into Sunday.

Lynne finished first in her age group and third overall.

I finished tenth in my age group - thanking God i finished at all. Conditions were horrendous to say the least.

Ben race in his first WORS race - Citizen Men class - age 10 - 14 years old - and finished sixth out of 12 or so in his age group.

Check out the photos below - and I thought I had a rough time of it! (you don't need to add the language add-ons as my computer was asking me to do)

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2007-08/07/content_6487623.htm

Next race is at Mt Morris - a new venue and looking forward to it.

Until next time...

2007-07-26T17:45:00.000-05:00

A few pics from a recent Crystal Ridge Wednesday night race.

2007-07-22T20:33:00.000-05:00

Photos for Mount Rainier - July 18 - 21, 2007

2007-07-16T16:34:00.000-05:00

No pictures to share of the Reforestation Ramble WORS race.

Lynne did really well again - 2nd in her age group and 7th overall. I had two good laps and cramped / bonked with half lap to go - finished the race and that's all that counts when you get to my age right?

Shared a gel with Christine of the Alterra team as we rode for a bit on the second lap.

She must have received the more potent half of the packet as she proceeded to leave me in her dust and I pooped out. Oh, well. Better riding next time. Congrats Christine!

2007-06-25T09:07:00.000-05:00

Weekend Update:

Rode 30 + miles on Saturday morning on the road with Tommy S. Check out the You Tube video I posted a link to the other day. All part of Senior prank day at Sowt Milwaukee High Screwal.

Drove to Crystal Ridge to remove the face slappers that had been giving me fits the past couple of weeks during our Wednesday night races.

Sunday - rode 30 + on the road again with the much better half.

2007-06-23T09:07:00.001-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5JznD3glLus

Check out Tom in his real life

2007-06-18T16:45:00.000-05:00

WORS #4 - Phillips

No pictures for this week's race.

Update:

Lynne finisahed second in her class, 6th overall. Good for her.

I finished 8th in my age group and 68th overall. Not bad for a race that started out dry! I say started out dry and you're thinking oh brother it rained again. You are correct. It started raining after the first lap and a half. Thunder and lightning added to the event. Dry and dusty conditions quickly turned into wet and greasy in some spots.

Anyhow, I finished without any incidents or accidents. I had heard a comment that one unfortunate rider crashed into a tree and smashed the TREK TopFuel carbon frame he was racing. He too ended in the hospital for observation with a suspected concussion - possible broken collar bone too.

That's all for now.

2007-06-03T20:50:00.000-05:00

Welcome to Wausau Sand & Gravel - OOPS - I mean The Big Ring Classis Marathon Race, A light drizzle welcomed us to the start line. After a rousing GOOOOO the sky opened up. Not a down pour mind you but enough rain to turn the trails into slick & greasy climbs followed by wet and sloppy downhills.

Once when the rain threatened to lighten up, you guessed it, it rain harder. The Top Fuel work almost flawlessly. Nearing the end of my last lap the demon chain-suck tried to rear it's ugly head. Not a really impressive finsih for me (22 out of 27 or so finishers) but Lynne rode quite well finishing 2nd again.

2007-06-01T09:32:00.000-05:00

A proud big brother - Sam the man and his new baby brother (Evan) - hanging out like pro's.

2007-05-27T19:29:00.000-05:00

A brief update - I raced the 6 hour solo at 12 Hours of Gears Saturday May 27th. Finshed with 11 laps in 5.5 or hours. I just didn't have another one in me at that point. Met Candy, Coop and his new bride Anne, Genna and Tom, Bubba and his clan out for the fun.

Just returned from a day of rock climbing at Devils Lake. Boy howdy were there the people out there.

Will end up needing a day to recuperate tomorrow that's for certain.

Next week is the Big Ring Classic up in Wausau. See you there!

2007-05-15T11:24:00.000-05:00

Another one of our team's fine support staff. You'll never know when you'll need someone to hold your flag pole right?

2007-05-07T20:24:00.000-05:00

Iola WORS race # 1 - May 6, 2007

Dave - Gooooo!
No butts about it - Lynne & Sue hit the dusty trail
Mike B getting up a head of steam for that big climb
Lynne at the start- butterflies and all
Sue at start (what, me worry?)
New rider guy - sorry dude
Lynne hauling a$$ - taking the turn a bit wide!
Bubba bringing up the rear
Conner third place - podium finish!
Sue podium finish - race 1 - COOL!
Lynne podium finish - race 1 COOL!
Lynne Race podium
Greg - give me a drink please!
Greg - Smooth going down!
New guy Jess?
John Timm reeling them in!
Tri-Guy Matt Amman

2007-05-07T08:32:00.000-05:00

WORS is off and running with a fine showing by TEAM EXTREME at the Iola venue. Flying with new colors the team had many podium finishes.

My better half finished first in her age group and 9th (?) overall - pictures to follow when I get time to post again.

2007-05-03T15:58:00.000-05:00

Well - it's that time of year again! Metro Mountain Bikers will hopefully be starting up Wednesday night races at Crystal Ridge next week. Races were cancelled due to the course being too wet this past Wednesday.

Call Metro Mtn Bikers hotline for trail updates (414)297 - 9616 (#2) for race / course conditions.

WORS racing calendar starts up this weekend with the first race of the year in Iola, Wisconsin.

Good luck everyone! GOoooooooo!

And to not be out done by Bubba's blog - This year Team Extreme has hired pit crew assistants to help with hand ups and such. I was able to get a copy of a photo from one of the gal's employee folders.
We're rolling now! The heck with Russkel's bubba beaters, I'll take my chances with Pirelli's from now on.

2007-04-27T20:28:00.000-05:00

For those of you out there interested in the endurance racing scene - Candy & her suga daddy have made their brief debut in 24 SOLO produced by Ken Bell in association with Gripped Films. The movie follows Chris Eatough in his quest to win his 7th 24 hour solo world championship. It is a well done movie - especially since Candy is in it.

Check it out!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=11oqeJFmeCg

John

2007-04-10T09:14:00.000-05:00

Bubba turned me on to this race - who else is in?

http://www.bikes-n-boards.com/rasta.html

Come and get a preview of the Smokin' Spokes race course - start the season off on the right foot.