MTBIDWELL

2010 IORCA schedule

2010-02-08T12:25:00.000-08:00

The 2010 Iowa Mountain Biking Championship Series schedule:

IMBCS #1 - April 11 - Sylvan Island, Moline, IL
IMBCS #2 - April 25 - Decorah, IA
IMBCS #3 - May 9 - Camp Ingawanis, Waverly, IA *****
IMBCS #4 - May 23 - Banner Lakes, Indianola, IA
IMBCS #5 - June 6 - Morehead Pioneer Park, Ida Grove, IA
IMBCS #6 - July 17 - Scott County Park, Eldridge, IA
IMBCS #7 - July 25 - Seven Oaks Ski Area, Boone, IA
IMBCS #8 - August 15 - Lake Ahquabi State Park, Indianola, IA
IMBCS #9 - August 29 - Sugarbottom Rec Area, North Liberty, IA
IMBCS #10 - September 25 - Lake Manawa State Park, Council Bluffs, IA
IMBCS #11 - October 3 - Sycamore Trail, Des Moines, IA

Other non-IMBCS races:

Iowa Games MTB Race, Peterson Pits, Ames, IA - TBD
24 Hours of Iowa, Seven Oaks Recreation Area, Boone, IA - September 4 & 5
4th Annual Women's MTB Clinic, Des Moines, IA - TBD
5th Annual Des Moines Dirty Duathlon, Des Moines, IA - TBD

In other news, look for a new local team tearing up the singletrack>>>>> Velo SyndiKat.

Also, the Team formerly known as Bike Tech has regrouped under the name of Twisted Spokes. Between the 2 teams, the Cedar Valley should remain well represented!

NEW 2010 TEAM

2010-02-05T06:38:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2009-12-24T05:23:00.001-08:00

Busy October!

2009-10-01T10:50:00.000-07:00

Been getting in some somewhat consistant running lately and making progress. Then it will be time for some base miles on the bike. Not sure why, but I really enjoy fall and winter commuting to work. I can usually get in almost 30 miles a day. It's training with an immediate purpose and the sometimes adverse conditions prep me for any race or event come spring.

Hoping the weather cooperates for both the BevTT/ Sugarbottom Scramble and Big Wheeled Ballyhoo.

IMB meetings will begin again this month- Oct 19th

and an ever important Trail Work Day- Saturday October 17th -8-noon

Plans are also coming together for the 4th annual Turkey Burn the Saturday after Thanksgiving.

Passing the time

2009-09-28T07:31:00.000-07:00

Been getting in some good running to build the cardio back up before getting back on the bike. Slowly but surely it's all coming back. Seems the older you get, the easier it becomes to put on the fat and lose the muscle. Sometimes a guy just needs inspiration. It could be an event or a PR, it could be health issues, or it could be that you got caught up following this guy on his bike journey to Nebraska from Oregon.

Good luck and stay safe CH! or you can follow his tweets here!

Fall News

2009-09-25T06:56:00.000-07:00

Beginning October 1st, the South Side of Camp will be off-limits due to hunting season. North side remains available anytime. Some re-routes are currently in the works, primarily near Deans Demise andnear Wakosha.
Lots going on in October - Saturday the 17th will be a trail work day 8-12.
Sunday the 19th will be our Fall IMB meeting. 7PM. Meeting location will either be at Doughy Joeys or at the BikeShed at camp. I'll let all know.
We have recieved more applications and will be getting out the 2010 membership cards.

Other happenings this month : October 3rd = BevTT's and Take a Kid Mountain Biking day in CedarRapids http://www.sugarbottomscramble.com/files/09_bev_tt.jpg
October 4th =Sugar Bottom Scramble in Cedar Rapids
http://www.sugarbottomscramble.com/
October 9,10,11= Big Wheeled Ballyhoo
http://bigwheeledballyhoo.com/
As for the Ballyhoo, let me know if anyone wants to come along. Will be leaving either Friday eve or Saturday AM, camping and returning Sunday.

Fast Freddy has a flyer!

2009-09-11T14:22:00.000-07:00

Don't want to miss this one, these guys can put on some great events!

It's Tuesday

2009-09-01T14:44:00.000-07:00

Another 5.5 at lunch today. Calves still sore, but that should dissipate shortly.

Anyone needing a pregame warm-up before the Iowa vs UNI game, meet us at the North side sign in board at 8 AM this Saturday.

Quick Weekend Recap and Trail Update

2009-08-31T07:36:00.000-07:00

Had a decent six miler Friday at noon that began with a slightly sore back and lead legs. Ended up running through it and found my "all day pace". Thank goodness for muscle memory. Could have used some tunes though.

Saturday was spent hanging out with Eli as Ethan was ATVing with one of his buddies. Got a bunch done around the house and converted my old Diamond Back into a fendered off road commuter. Ended the day fishing with my boys and some friends followed by "The Day the Earth Stood Still"

Sunday was spent with our Luther League canoeing and playing volleyball. Absolutely great day. Our youth group really needs to do more activities like this. The way the day progressed, the dynamics, and interaction of the kids and adults played into something that I am pretty sure only God could scheme. Will post some neat pics.

As for Ingawanis, the majority of the North side is open and rideable. There is still some tree debris on lower Wakosha, but riders should be able to navigate. Huge thanks to Paul Meyermann! The South side is still open as well until hunting season. We will post up when that occurs in early October. North to South side bridge is still the works. Stay tuned for upcoming group rides as the best part of the mountain biking season is upon us.

Short Post

2009-08-27T14:20:00.000-07:00

Had a great second run last night in the cooling rain and the best part is that my wife decided to join me for a bit. Very cool. Much easier to process the day and share thoughts while doing the same thing without distraction. Here is to hoping for more!

Mom, he's doing it again!

2009-08-26T14:47:00.000-07:00

Blog resuscitation in order. Keeps me honest. Enough of the procrastination and hopefully enough health issues for awhile!

Ran a bit over 5 miles yesterday and didn't feel like it used to. Got a ways to go! All of the bikes are tuned, dusted and ready for action, stand by for posts!

Thursday Work Evening

2009-06-16T11:34:00.000-07:00

Captain Bob, myself, and others will be out mowing, raking, and doing recon this Thursday 6-18. Come join us!

South Side Saturday Ride

2009-05-27T14:00:00.000-07:00

8 AM. Early arrivals eligible for high speed cable at no extra charge!

Get your game on

2009-05-21T08:04:00.001-07:00

Group Ride Sat AM at camp! May 23rd at 8!

NEW DATE

2009-04-30T07:45:00.000-07:00

New race weekend date will be August 1st and 2nd. This was the only date that would fit into the IMBCS schedule and Camp Activity schedule and not interfere with other series races.

IMBCS #2 to be rescheduled

2009-04-28T06:59:00.000-07:00

I spent some time assessing the trail system last night and again this morning, and we have some major flooding going on affecting a majority of the North side trails and South side trails. Even if it stayed dry until the weekend (which is unlikely with the forecast) it will be a muddy mess, and still have unpassable sections. We have re-routed in the past but am not fond of 3-4 mile loops when there is much more to offer. Out of concern for rider's travel time and expense, damage to bicycle's, and a substandard experience, I am planning on rescheduling the event. Stay tuned for NEW date in the works as we speak.

Dirty Job Rob

2009-04-15T06:36:00.000-07:00

IMB Trail Work Day April 18th

2009-04-07T09:08:00.000-07:00

Saturday April 18th is our first "official" trail work day. This is one of the most important to attend as our race is just around the corner! Show up at 8 with a rake and/or shovel at the IMB sign in Kiosk. We should be done around lunch time, unless you need to leave early.

I plan on being out a couple times before this, perhaps after work some day. I'll post it.

In the words of the MISFITS or James Hetfield if you prefer- "I got somethin' to say!"

2009-04-03T05:59:00.000-07:00

.....okay not really- but the flyers are out for our May XC races!

A Quickie for Blue!

2009-03-24T12:56:00.000-07:00

New Test rig

It's fastLoaded for campSunday Breakfast at camp
Homemade biscuits and sausage gravy, compliments of Doty. *
* Actual product could not be shown as patent is pending per the G.B.T.A
(Georgian biscuit technique association)

They were good, even with this nasty cold I caught Sunday early AM.
Hope recovery is quick...

IMBCS schedule released

2009-01-28T07:23:00.001-08:00

62.14 mile gravel race possibility...

2009-01-21T07:09:00.000-08:00

Contemplated a ride into work today, knee still a bit too sore. Maybe tomorrow...
This looks very enticing CIRREM ! Have to see how the recovery goes. Looks like Cuz and GT are in!

Posting a late post, posthaste, postmortem, far from postopia.

2009-01-14T12:41:00.000-08:00

Catching up -

No rides lately, able to walk abit easier now though which is a definite plus. Does snow blowing count as physical therapy???

Family has had some serious bouts with the flu, I've escaped thus far. Ethan and Katie are better but Eli has had to visit the ER for an IV to keep hydrated. He's still struggling. He's a tough little man though!

Wife rescued a couple more abandoned little dogs that have since been adopted out( after a good shave and treatments) to great families who will do a better job than the previous owners. One was a Terri-poo and the other a Lhasa Apso. Had we not already housed 4 pooches, we would have kept them.

In other news, some friends on facebook posted a pic of myself and a good friend of mine while on a tour of the Great Lakes, Sandusky Ohio, and Canada back in 1989. Brought back some good memories even though it was 20 years ago. I am quite amazed that we haven't changed at all;)!!!

The Treacherous 25

2009-01-04T10:17:00.000-08:00

Met 8 other fellows in CF for Adams slap of gravel goodness. I don't recall much gravel, just a lot of ice. Made for a good challenge, I mean, it doesn't usually take 2.5-3 hrs to go 25 miles.... It was a great ride non-the less. I got a bit overconfident with my under-inflated ignitors on the ice and paid the price. Bike went right, left leg went left, soon to be followed by the body that fell somewhere in the middle. Lower half of the leg taco'ed out and OUCH. Luckily it was cold enough to subdue the pain, enough so, that Jeremy Fry could pedal w/ me the final 6 or 7 miles. Thanks, you are a true gentleman! Now it is off to the Doc tomorrow for an MRI I suppose and knee brace. Geesh. Walking is still a bit of a chore that usually involves some choice colorful words, just ask my wife. Sorry honey! I'll leave you with a couple mobile pics- though there are a few more floating around on facebook.

Post Holiday Ramblings....

2009-01-02T12:31:00.000-08:00

Made it through Christmas and the New Year successfully, though in some kind of crud that was a mix of a cold, an inability to sleep, and general apathy. Of course that resulted in a huge lack of interest on my behalf that transcended any of the standard holiday cheer I normally feel. I did get in some quality time with the people and friends I love. Probably doesn't make it easy for the family, but I think I did the best I could. Glad that is over. Interests are back this morning and I said a prayer of thanks and for guidance.

Looking forward to a good slap in the face tomorrow whether it comes by the gravel, co-riders, or inclimate weather. Thanks for putting this ride together A-lo!

Looks like the ride leaves from Cup of Joes on Main around 9 or 10.

2008-12-24T05:37:00.001-08:00

Letter to Guitar Ted, and what now??

2008-12-16T07:39:00.000-08:00

"After my morning visit w/ Dr. Sundaram, my cardiologist, I regret to inform you that after sharing with him my plans for TI, he shot me down... I had been seeing him for quite awhile for chest pains and breathing problems I experienced a few months ago. I went through an ekg, echocardiogram, and finally a stress test due to my mitral valve being delayed or missing on occasion. Though I passed the stress test with flying colors he said I should sit this year out, even though I feel great. Anyway, I still plan on riding my arse off and doing some racing this year, just not trans iowa. Let me know what lucky participant gets my spot- as they had better make a good showing! As for volunteering, I am undecided. We have our IMB IORCA race that weekend that I was going to delegate out to someone to help run, but we will have to see. It would be nice at TI to volunteer, root the racers on, and get a sure spot next year."

I guess that gives me seventeen more months of miles behind my belt till next time....

Instantly longer Lashes!!

2008-12-12T05:44:00.000-08:00

Maybe it's Maybelline, or maybe it's just fudgin cold!

Poor Kid!

2008-12-09T08:42:00.001-08:00

Kind-of puts a kabosh to basketball and skiing for awhile.

Nerf Basketball is a dangerous sport!

90 percent done... shopping that is.

2008-12-08T07:02:00.000-08:00

Saturday AM= Shopping. Goal= Get the big ticket items out of the way. End result= Useful gifts to make the whole family happy. Cost= ahhhh....forget about it.

Did get a chance to ride w/ Robert, Kat, and John Sunday in the 14 degree temps. Bit windy as well. I wasn't happy with my choice of ss gears though. On the downside of hills, I would about bounce out of my seat keeping up with the cross bikes. Nice ride though. Thanks!

Robert aboard his single speed 1996 Voodoo super commuter

Glad I had the fat Ignitors on this icy stretch.

Could have rode all day, but as always- stuff to do!

Studded tires would be nice

2008-12-03T05:57:00.000-08:00

Took about an hour for the 14 mile commute this AM. Nerve racking ride with blowing wind, icy roads, and occassional stupid drivers. But you'll have that. I love this stuff! Went with gears today and am glad when it came to plowing small drifts. Bike today is an older Diamond Back Voyager II, not in its original state, save the solar ray deflector. Tires were Vermin 1.95 that actually kept my rubber side up, however studded tires would have been preferred. Anxious for the ride at 5!

Mini-rant- I adjust my route to stay on the less travelled gravel roads for my commute and when I need to take pavement, I stay on the unforgiving gravel shoulder- always. So what the heck is up with people honking at me. They should be paying attention to the road and maybe slowing down a hair....

Turkey Burn Fun

2008-12-01T08:11:00.000-08:00

Woke up to a beautiful cool morning Saturday.Was delighted to see quite the crew at camp to ride. Even some out of towners here for Thanksgiving graced us with their presence. Had a couple left over female socks I thought I'd share w/ them stating " Give these to your wife or girlfriend" One fellow said - "I'll need a few pair....." What a stud.
Rock Garden

The man, the myth, the legend, Scott Gall

Mr. Nosbisch aka NOZ

There, of course, was a bit of bike swapping going on. Here we see cuz aboard GT's very cool Milwaukee Bicycles 29er w/ stupid lightweight yet stiff Edge composite hoops.

Tom Klenske's flat tire made for a nice diversion a gave us a chance to git dirty.

Stump jump practice

3rd times a charm for Craig!

Cuz aboard his powder-coated SZ 29er(Stealth Zion)

Biggest turn out we've had thus far- Thanks for the ride!!!

Nice of mother nature to hold off on the inclimate weather until we got this ride done... again!

Something a bit faster.

2008-11-26T05:44:00.000-08:00

Getting used to the cooler weather. 18 degrees this am, not too bad. Decided to ride the old Raleigh 48x18. Fun and fast bike.

Really looking forward to Thanksgiving, and not just the eating part.

Have a great day and enjoy your family!

Rambling

2008-11-25T11:24:00.000-08:00

Noticed a hitch-hiker heading north on my way back from lunch. Looked to be a Wartburg college student, probably attempting to get home for Thanksgiving. I wouldn't have hesitated to give the lad a ride had I not had to get back to my desk.... My first thoughts were spent recalling a really good movie, Into the Wild.
Second, I started thinking about my own unchartered adventures taken both as planned, and as unpredictable desperations. Moving out as an unprepared 15 y/o. Being homeless but optimistic, several times. Sleeping in cars, outside, churches, dorm rooms, roach infested hell holes, etc. Getting back and forth to Oregon, whether by bus, trains, or planes and encountering some interesting and sometimes downright scary people. Spending my senior year in a travel trailer on a mountain near the Mckenzie. Being oblivious to what "must be open minded" meant in an apartment ad. Thank God for survival mode. It's all experience that I am happy I've had and could make a good book someday. Done babbling now- Hope that fellow makes it to wherever he is headed!

Weekend in mobile pics

2008-11-24T09:54:00.001-08:00

Boone, Iowa. Got some "real" running in w/ a very fast partner.

Eldest son, Ethan waitin for the tail wag over c-ville.

Wonderfull town of Waverly

Over Clarksville

Smooth landing...

Layers like an onion, not a parfait

2008-11-21T05:41:00.000-08:00

Had a long ride home into the wind at 28 degrees and took well over an hour last night for 14 miles. This mornings commute was better for two reasons - no wind - and smarter layers. Made it in a hair under an hour.

I don't spend a lot of time researching clothes like I should, more of a trial and error. This AM I did it right. All 5 layers were progressively wetter on the outside and dry towards my body. This usually isn't the case for this sweat hog. I do need some clear goggles though when it is this cold.

Going to get some personal time in this weekend, do some reading, some running, and maybe some meditation in the woods... Have a Great weekend!!

Forked and rambling

2008-11-19T07:37:00.000-08:00

Not being familiar with the geometry of 29er's, one of my initial thoughts w/ the stock SE Stout was that the front end was too heavy and the 110 stem was much too long , hindering my ability to loft the front end, or point and shoot if you will. Thought it a leverage issue and relieved it for a time w/ an 80 DH stem.

I had no idea how much the "landing gear" fork weighed during the recent swap to an Origin 8 Carbon fork. Needless to say the 110 is back on and I'm liking it. Once done, I believe this can be a pretty light, efficient, and sturdy rig. Next up, some "not so utilitarian" hoops w/ skewers and skinny knobby rubber, frame bag, and 34 x 16 gears.

Had thought of putting my Cannondale Lefty Max 140 fork on but the weight weenie in me decided against it. Now I only have to decide w/ rig is TI compatible. I have taken and tested the ol' super rigid chrome killer V for 150 plus gravel miles at a time, felt comfortably good, and had some left at the end. However, I do recall after cresting a couple death ride hills that on the downside the 29ers would effortlessly roll past... hmmm....

Only time and testing will tell.

In other happenings, the 09 IMBCS schedule is being hammered out as we speak by Cam and coordinators. There is talk about a no race fee for the 6 IMBCS series category winners, sounds like a fair deal to me. Camp Ingawanis looks to be set once again as a series stop on May 3rd which will be in conjunction w/ our Trail Run Race/ TT on the 2nd. Yeah, I noticed the dates, all the hard work is the prep anyway and others will have to step up.

In other thoughts.... Paul "The Counselor" has been successful in scholarship fund raising in the past- incorporating it w/ his Trans Iowa participation. I was brainstorming some possibilities w/ this fund raising possibility. We recently had a not so kind person/persons burn down our Bike Trail bridge in Clarksville , perhaps this is an opportunity..

N.S.N & T.I.

2008-11-18T14:21:00.000-08:00

In order to make myself more popular with the Mrs. I am making an "attempt" at No Shave November. We will see where that takes me... so far >>>>

Got in a nice chilly but sunny run in today. Felt pretty good other than running through campus wearing Black, Gold, and Hawkeye gloves... Good thing the 'bergers" are a friendly bunch.

It would also appear that I made the roster for Trans Iowa! Happy Training to the rest of you 74 crazy people!

Sick and insane

2008-11-17T06:16:00.000-08:00

Not a very happening past week with the sickness making its rounds. We should be in the clear from here on out, hopefully. I did get my postcard sent in for TI though. The plan is tackling the 300+ miles aboard the single speed if the postcard makes the cut!Today I get to take a stress test for the heart guy. Should be interesting and am sure all will workout fine.

Friday's Post

2008-11-07T14:40:00.000-08:00

Checking out for the weekend!

Tonite is bowling with the kids. Tomorrow is Luther League helping atthe food bank in 'loo, followed by cleaning pop's gutters and a Bike Tech meeting. Other than that it looks like a good weekend to stoke up the wood burner and putz around in the garage...

Have a good weekend and go find some gravel, y'all!

2008-11-06T12:30:00.000-08:00

Cold and windy run today. Overcast with an occasional peek from the sun.

Gravel commute via Cedar Bend

2008-11-04T06:10:00.000-08:00

Nice hour ride into work at around 14.3 miles. Definitely need to switch out the 18 rear cog for my 15 tooth on the Stout single speed to speed things up a bit. Although with the wind this AM I didn't complain much about the gearing.

I still wouldn't mind hosting a MTB time trial out here sometime. Cedar Bend is definitely one of my favorite places to camp that doesn't break the bank driving to.

Do people normally feel this good or do normal people always feel this good?

2008-11-03T11:43:00.000-08:00

Not that I was feeling at all bad before... First 2 miles were trod with heavy legs, suddenly I forgot I was running. Then it was good, then all was good. Positive attitude and an exuberance of optimism and gratitude. Spent a little under an hour at a 7 min mile pace today. As Striker himself has proven - "Gettin Faster"

Lets hope my optimism sticks and we don't see gas prices go right back up after the election....

Grandpa knew best

2008-10-30T06:46:00.000-07:00

Always an incredible wood carver, Grandpa R creates figurines and objects that emote an array of reaction. Back in 1989, while I was immersed in cross country and track, my grandpa noticed this passion, much like he has for golf. Unbeknownst to me, he had procured one of my shoes. This is probably one of the best gifts I have ever recieved, even as long ago as that was. When I recieved it, I was immediately drawn to the detail to Reebok's "new at the time" ERS or energy response system that was integrated w/ a dual density eva midsole to prevent overpronation. Also noted was the detail to the worn high abrasion outsole (one of the downpoints of this particular shoe)

It wasn't until later that I truly appreciated the time, thought, talent, and foresight that he put into this. It is a reminder of one of the many things in life that make me happy, and how important all of my family is to me. Hope he gets to swinging the clubs again soon!

Todays lunch hour was brought to you by the letter "H" as in "H"ill repeats or what in the "H"eck am I doing trying to keep up with Wartburgers?? Still maintained below 180 bpm though so I didn't push it too hard. A good 5 miles w/ a half sub from sub-city in the gut.

Tonight is Clarksville's Trick or Treat from 5-7, should be fun! Still wonder how your supposed to scare someone during the daylight?? I am sure it is much safer.

Docs, Toads, Dummies, and Burnt Turkey

2008-10-29T14:31:00.001-07:00

Visited w/ the cardiologist and he said this heart condition happens to quite a few people, yet he will need me to do a stress test. That can't be that bad. Probably no worse than your average cyclo-cross race. I'm sure all will work out.

As long as the Mrs. and I were near CF we decided to get a bite to eat and stop by Brent's shop. He is doing some neat rearranging and painting.

Kerkove has his "patented self-portait" but I decided to take this pic in true BLUE fashion.
This big dummy looks like it is begging for some long mileage and self-sustainment.

Finally, Mark your calendars for this group ride once again!

Lunchtime L.S.D.

2008-10-28T11:30:00.000-07:00

The equivalent of cycling Long Slow Distance, but running. Used my hour to take in just how beautiful this little town can be. Starting with an easy glide downhill through Wartburg, where everyone waves, young and old. Before crossing the bridge, one gets to play as a Kelpe Dog, herding the Geese and dodging the green stuff. Past the Bank of Inspiration, that will soon read 1st Nationalized Bank onto the peaceful Bike trail. After a few steps under a thinning canopy it's time to head back uphill to work. A pleasant 5 miles. If everyday were this easy...

Strange face in face effect here...

Family, Hockey, and a windy run.

2008-10-27T07:39:00.000-07:00

Dad made it home on Friday and is way ahead of his recovery schedule. He will be bored and stir crazy for the next six weeks, so if you drive or ride by the corner of 3rd and Division, be sure and honk or ring your bell! In a strange turn of events, I went to the doc myself, not being able to breathe and having pains in my chest. Scarey to say the least. After an EKG and Echocardiogram, we deducted that it was more than likely stress related. However they did notice the Mitral valve would occasionally be slow to respond in sequence or fail to go. So guess who gets to see the Cardiologist? By speaking w/ those in the know it should be pretty treatable and not a big deal.

Saturday night we went to a knock down drag out Black Hawks game. To summarize, there were at least 10 helmet-less fights (4 at one time), 8 game ejections, and Waterloo won in OT.

Probably the only time the Mrs. wasn't on her feet ;)

Sunday I got a chance to get my running legs back on through Heery woods to attempt to get out of the insane winds to no avail. Felt good and got my spirits in the right place.

Long time no blog

2008-10-22T11:07:00.000-07:00

Dad had a succesful aortic valve replacement - the mechanical type. Pretty stressfull situation Monday but we made it!! He will probably want to go back to work tomorrow knowing him...

Did get a chance to ease the mind Saturday w/ some Wisconsin relatives. Great Game!!

morphing the possiblity

2008-10-16T12:11:00.000-07:00

This Bike Plus This Bike
Equals This Bike

140mm of travel will be reduced to about 80 going from 26 to 29 on the lefty max- but it should be fun.

You gotta see this!

2008-10-14T14:40:00.000-07:00

One of our Scouts on a fast paced superman style re-mount. Picture courtesy of Kim.

Never burn bridges

2008-10-13T14:06:00.000-07:00

Good and BUSY FLTF weekend (follow link for pics and results) had w/ success for both the IMB and Pack 4053. Very proud of my 12 year old gutting it out on a very rigid 1x8 finishing in just over an hour on a demanding course. Next time he needs to tie his Vans....

Fantastic and inspirational couple of bands from Heartland Vineyard Church, Great food, Great People and support! Thanks to everyone who helped and showed up!!

On the downside, some arsonist decided to burn down our newer bike bridge near Clarksville- As my wife said, kids and people in Clarksville can't keep their mouth shut so I am certain it will be resolved.

More later....

26er's vs 29er's

2008-10-10T05:55:00.000-07:00

Something a bit smaller; tried and true that has never let me down, maybe a bit outdated- but will never get rid of . . .

But with all this bigger is better stuff, I thought why not? At 150 lbs, it's not for the weight weenies, yet is very efficient and nimble.

Meet Yukon!

Almost time to head out to camp and prepare!

Forecast looks lovely for F L T F !

2008-10-08T06:50:00.000-07:00

Mid 70's and no rain predicted- for the Flat Tire Festival. We have cabins and campsites still available. Tomorrow the 9th is the cut-off for discounted family or single weekend rates, (like it's not cheap enough already!). RSVP to me @ jbidwell2003@hotmail.com , call 319-939-6923, or if you're on facebook go to this EVENT and say your attending. There will be activities for all!
Still looking for a couple volunteers to help w/ race duties, as well as people to enjoy the single track, eat, and enjoy some tunes!

What were you doing 2 years ago??

2008-10-07T09:56:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday Rhea and all that work paid off Jeff!

I'm THOR!!! well it hurts....

2008-10-06T09:08:00.000-07:00

Picked up the rental jackhammer and generator and proceded to make me'self a bit sore come Sunday AM. Good work at camp done though for sure w/ the help of Guitar Ted, Tim Cook, Rob Walters, Rob Houlihan, DW Huisman, and others. Went fishing in the dark Saturday eve w/ the youngest as the oldest was at at a weekend hunters training course. Did some more fishing and grilling w/ Eli Sunday AM and then proceeded to hang w/ friends in Waverly for a b-day party which resulted in some football. Only ruined one shirt and one pair of pants but did manage to tackle our biggest and toughest senior on the C-ville team. Yeah, that was smart. Busy weekend capped off w/ a nasty stomach flu/ fever or something Sunday night. Might as be miserable at work, eh?

Eli thinks this might work....

Fort Atkinson

2008-09-29T08:04:00.000-07:00

Luckily the cool weather deterred most" would be loin cloth sportin folks" this year. Kids had a good time. Homemade rootbeer, candy and fry-bread tacos. mmmm.

Prep for the Festival

2008-09-24T14:19:00.001-07:00

October 4th 8:30 AM till Noon or whenever you've had enough.

We are also looking for volunteers for the Festival!

Moon, stars, and Sunrise

2008-09-19T05:36:00.000-07:00

Sun was a bit reluctant to warm this chilly morning commute. Time for lights again.

I couldn't wake up this sleeping kitty either- must have been waiting for the sun to come up as well.. hmmm

Finally,about 45 minutes in,I get some pretty views.

Meeting Tonight

2008-09-18T09:08:00.000-07:00

Ingawanis Mountain Biking committee and all members meeting. Important stuff to discuss!

Everyone encouraged to attend!!!

7 oclock at Maple!

Well, that was fun!

2008-09-15T11:59:00.001-07:00

The cool, wet weather did not stop the fun Sunday. The food was good, the dutch ovens were great and the participation was better than one would have guessed w/ the conditions. Everyone walked away with a cool prize from our many sponsors and no serious injuries!!!

Jazzed up and parking Buicks

2008-09-10T08:49:00.000-07:00

Finally cleaned out the garage and made room for the Skylark. Winter plans include pulling the motor and going through it w/ my boys. Should be entertaining.
Went to Bob's guitar last night and picked up this new Dean electric and Roland Micro Cube for my eldest son Ethan. He is getting into Jazz band this year. They had a nice Fender there but he was pretty insistant on this model. Great action and plays nice. The Cube is pretty amazing and Ethan may get some time playing on it ..... someday ;) JK
I must say that it has been my experience of some perceived snobbyness when going into music stores (also happens in bike shops- but none around here;) but there was absolutely none. Bob's guitar stayed open late and made my sons day by giving E a free shirt, strap, and pics. I'll be back for sure.

Next up is our cub scout event- should be a good community event, not to mention i'll see what the kids and adults have the most fun at. And use it for the October Flat Tire Festival!

Greene Parade and RoadRunners

2008-09-09T06:17:00.001-07:00

Eli, Ethan, and Grandpa
Friends Road Runner almost ready for paint at Mathers Auto Body

The Mrs. displaying her equestrian skills. No she wasn't sore the next day ;)

Mark your Calendar !

2008-09-03T09:57:00.000-07:00

Tagged

2008-08-27T12:09:00.000-07:00

Courtesy of GT

What was I doing 10 years ago?
1998 - 24yrs old. One 3yr old. One wife of just over 3yrs. Had bought our first house(still in it) Don't think I had a bike at that time. Did have a K5 blazer w/ 44's and 6 inch lift kit, no mullet though. Only other hobby was occasionally jamming w/ a band in Shell Rock.

What are five non-work things on my to-do list today?
1 - Finish flyer and plans for October Flat Tire Festival at Camp Ingawanis.

2 - Plan Bike Ride/Rodeo activites for our local Cub Scout pack next month.

3 - Help the Mrs. get the camper ready for a nice long camping weekend in Greene.

4 - Mow the yard (if it doesn't rain)

5 - Clean my garage/ aka rearrange the umpteen-thousand bikes and ramps.

Snacks I enjoy?
Popcorn- EVERY NIGHT! and thats about it.

Things I would do if I were a billionaire?
Not be among the living.

Places I have lived?
San Diego, California
Cedar Falls
Waterloo
Blue River, Oregon
Ames
Waverly
Clarksville

Jobs I have had?
Bean thinner at Pioneer Hybrid
McDonalds Grease Rat
Detasseling contractor
Country Kitchen waiter
Younkers Retail Sales
Camp Commissary Director/ Staff Ingawanis/WSR
Veterinarian assistant - Euthanizing sucks!
Waiter and bartender at Brown Bottle
Parts runner in auto dealership
Bartender at local Hotel, weddings,etc- after normal job.
Parts Counter Sales
Wholesale counter sales/ Webmaster at salvage yard
Part time truck loader at aftermarket parts distributor- after normal job.
Parts Manager at auto dealership.

Time to TAG

Still haven't seen cuz's
Mojoe
Jimmy James- and it better be eloquent
Mr. Bruce Brown

What the hell am I doing here, I don't belong here....

2008-08-25T05:37:00.000-07:00

Pumped and ready to ride Sat AM at camp. Load the 29er single speed up and roll. Get halfway through Waverly and the Saab's dead. Acts like it's out of gas. Explain to the friendly police I'm going to go to my work and snag a gas can while my car sits along Bremer Ave. Make the run, get the gas, still no worky. It wants to, just won't keep going, definitely fuel related. Towed the car back to work and loaded up my bike into a lovely minivan(must say it's handy).

You know when you get that feeling like today is not going to be your day? Yeah, I had it. I still had a camp date so I rolled out. The south side trails are so fast that sometimes you're so into climactic singletrack euphoria that you lose things. Like my phone. This is where I thinks to me-self "shoulda stayed in bed". Luckily this directionally challenged fellow has a good memory of where I've been so I meet up with the group- GTED, Cuz, and Rob Houlihan (aka Deerslayer). to retrace w/ cuz calling me non-stop. Deerslayer finds it at the bottom of a fast gully. THANK YOU HOULIHAN!!! If Radiohead ever needs a singer they should call you. Ended up doing some more riding, packed it in and went to the in-laws to comb out my ass. No really, Harry, our donkey, was pretty matted. Grilled out on the crick beach and hung with the family. Nice finish.

Sunday was spent cleaning up around the house. Kinda nice to not have an agenda every once in awhile. My youngest was outgrowing his Specialized Hot-Rock so we found this 24" wheeled Trek at Trinkets & Togs. Needed a little TLC, but with some cleaning, tubes, new bars, bottle cage, and new speedo, we were good to go!

FLTF

2008-08-21T06:01:00.000-07:00

Meeting tonight at Camp- Time to get ready for this!!

More details to follow - FOOD, BAND??

Too Short

2008-08-19T11:15:00.000-07:00

Nope, not the Ghetto, although that track ranks right up there. :( Vacation;)

Had a great time with family and friends. Even got some riding in. And get this, I actually got lost! Trying to chase down the red bull mini cooper for a hook-up w/ my nephew and friend. Ended up traversing Saylorville Lake quite extensively. Never did find the ever-elusive cooper... Oh well. Adventureland may not be Disneyland, but you don't have to wait for an hour to hit your favorite coaster. (3-4times:) Spent ALL day Friday there, camped, played some fierce sand volleyball, swam, and had a good time w/ the little people.

Time to switch gears and get back into work mode and plan for the Flat Tire Festival at Camp Ingawanis!!!

We're outta here

2008-08-14T08:25:00.000-07:00

Time to take these two cowboys to Saylorville for some camping, adventurelanding, fishing, and riding!

Pioneering, Reunioning, & Reunioning

2008-08-08T12:22:00.000-07:00

They all occupy the same text space, however they also occupy the same time frame. Ugh! We'll make it work, somehow.... Tonight we take our camper to the in-laws for visiting guests. We have family on her side getting together, and family on my side(including CUZ!) getting together on Saturday. We've also got Pioneer days in Clarksville this weekend. One of us will need to drive our convertible w/ a queen, and the other pull a Cub Scout float. Should prove to be a busy one.

Lets see what else is going on... Scott Gall has got a ride at 6:15 tomorrow AM to camp, do laps, and ride back. Meet at River Hills School on Grand Ave. in CF. Sunday is the group ride from Bike Tech- meet at 4:30 behind BT or be at Camp around 5.

Summer is nice, but I can't wait until fall!!

I feel so lonely, I could die

2008-08-04T05:34:00.000-07:00

Only a couple more days until the fam returns. Wife and I celebrated 13 years last week and you tend to get used to having them around.

Got some house stuff done this weekend, took my son's guitar to Bob's guitar to get the bridge fixed.

I rarely watch TV but I did get glued to X-games this weekend. Good entertainment.

Here is my oldest 5-0'ing the vert course ;)

And did I mention, I was all by myself?

2008-07-31T06:12:00.000-07:00

Bach'in it till next Weds. Yikes! Gonna miss the Mrs. and crew as they are heading towards Texas. Whats a fella to do? Hmmm. Maybe ride my bike ALOT. Get some more trail work done on the south side? Take a long overnight ride and check out WSR in Marblerock to help w/ the trail system? Go to the humane society and get me another pooch for Buster to play with? (like 3 isn't enough) Get some work done around the house? Work on bikes? We'll see what happens.........

Slow and Low, that is the Tempo

2008-07-30T05:43:00.000-07:00

SS'ed it to work, going to have to put on a taller cog. Very foggy. It's quite amazing how the fog makes everything easier. You'll never see the crest of a hill, only know that you've made it. One minute you're watching condensation drip off of your helmet, and the next minute you're at your destination. Good Ride.

Dinner?

2008-07-29T05:37:00.000-07:00

Wildlife proliferation project. Caught in Hampton, relocated to Sportsman's Park in Clarksville. Had planned on having Doty fillet him up but eldest son had other ideas.

New phone- I was well overdue, now I have no excuse for being unorganized and unreachable.

FUN

2008-07-28T06:13:00.000-07:00

Dirty Blue Box, Super Saul, Dillinger and Mama
Cuz, Super, and GT

My favorite bike of the day- Soul Cycles Dillinger

Love the bars, quick steer, and fun to ride OS Black Buck

SE Stout being neglected, needs a lighter fork.

Time to head back to Beeds Lake in Hampton- Awesome camp ground, great fishing, and neat dam.

Cuz called for a ride

2008-07-25T14:10:00.000-07:00

May have the pleasure of Guitar Ted's company as well. 7 bells in the AM. Break in the South Side!

Dyno's and Bend

2008-07-25T05:45:00.000-07:00

Misty morning commute with a brief run through Cedar Bend. Not sure what it is with this place but it's just what I need to start my Friday.

Last night I had a little time to build up my eldest sons GT Dyno- Fun semi-old school bike. Landing gear forks, Odyssey 41Thermal cranks w/ primo pedals, Snafu OS bars with Primal grips, FX lever, Hoffman seat and post, Specialized stem, chainring, hubs and hoops, Holy roller in front, Primo The Wall rear tire.

Have a great Weekend!

Overslept

2008-07-24T05:29:00.000-07:00

Hard to get into this getting up early again for the commute. Saves about 8 dollars each day I ride AND it's fun and put's my head in the right place. No brainer.
Didn't even hear the alarm....
Rode w/ the Mrs. to Shell Rock last night on the SS 29er. Ended up with about 50 miles for the day. Not too bad of a start.

Prophetic Commute

2008-07-23T07:59:00.000-07:00

Pleasant 14 mile gravel commute this AM, nice to be back on the bike. Looking forward to enjoying mother and shedding some pounds.