May 29, 2008 Terry

Wow, time is flying by and the training continues. We are feeling great and know that we are in good enough condition to do this trip. Now, we train to stay fit.

I thought it would be fun to share some of our training issues with you. So enjoy the training sessions from my perspective.

First, after riding about 1,700 miles around the Bay Area, we have to think of new routes to keep it interesting while maintaining work and family schedules and not subjecting ourselves to dangerous roads. We both like to start early so 5AM or 6AM is no problem. Then someone must lead the way, usually Mark who grew up in this neck of the woods and who has ridden most of our routes last year. Actually I am from the flat part of Ohio where the only hills were over freeways.

Next, it is important to get agreement on where to stop and what to eat. Mark and I seem to be compatible there. He and I will eat anything. Between the Cliff bars and hot cakes along with the coffee we get enough carbohydrates to keep us peddling.

A difficult decision to make before we start out each day is what clothes to wear. Layering is best since it is usually cool in the mornings and warm by the time we are done. Mark has all kinds of clothing for all kinds of weather. I tend to keep it simple and cheap (I won’t melt philosophy with little interest in bike fashion). Equipment issues are easier. Make sure your lights work, your tires have air and that you have a spare tube in case of a flat. Lubing and other minor maintenance is left to each of us for his bike. Let’s see, should I have a $100 helmet or a $15 helmet? My $15 helmet is fine.

Once on the road, we get into a rhythm and try to match gears (Mark has 3 more than me). We like to stay within a few feet of each other, but must be careful to allow for the lead person to lower a gear or to stop. We have become pretty comfortable with that and notice that we are easily passing slower riders which is fun, especially if they are young and are riding “go fast” bikes.

Hill climbing is necessary training. You cannot ride a long distance unless you can do some hills. And what goes up must come down which can be scary with speeds of 35 mph. Each day we decide “to climb or not to climb”. It is extremely satisfying to do a steep climb. And there are some really gorgeous homes in some of the hills around this area.

Losing weight is a fantastic benefit to bike riding. I have lost 25 pounds and would like to thank everyone who has noticed. I would also like to thank those who have already donated to our Adventure Ride project. It is so very appreciated.

In my next entry I may talk about “Names for everything “ or whether you should rely on a riding partner to order breakfast while you take a restroom break.

Remember, we are riding to raise funds to support all of the art in San Ramon. Please help us do this by making a small (or large) donation. You can send a check to SRAF, 231 Market Place No. 378, San Ramon, CA 94583 or go to www.sanramonarts.org to use PayPal.

Thanks so much for reading this and for your support of the Foundation.

Terry