Base Induced Thoughts

Another competitive year comes to a close, a brief training respite ensues, and then the cycling squawk inevitably turns to Base. T'is my favorite time of year, long epic rides, great conversation, self induced brain freeze and no flexing of the quads because "ah man I can't go this hard, I am in base, let's back it off". Just the basics..... and a lot of them. I guess I look at base like the ole story of building your house, you need a strong foundation or your house will collapse.



Well today at hour three, my hands nearly fell off, with sub 30 degree temps and less then base worthy gloves, my body was screaming for the coffee shops (which is my favorite base ritual). I had to make the stop while Ranno peddled around the block for 15 minutes, I guess Ranno enforces this no stopping policy. Well 24 oz of jitter juice later and one huge muffin, my game face was back on to finish out the final hours. It only takes one near frost bite experience to set you straight.



Btw, I have suffered through my share of hard earned miles and have come to a couple conclusions: Goggles serve their purpose under the right conditions, newspaper is a must from December on (note the Rocky Mtn News under my jersey today) and do not be afraid to rock the double chamois.