July 25, 2010
Day 23 - 63.7 miles
I have completed the miles of the Tour de France. Really hard to believe. I was up so early this morning, 3:30 am. Went downstairs to do my crunches and push ups. Came upstairs for my traditional toast and jelly and then waited to a little light came out. Started on my bike at 5:00 am. It was already 81 degrees but with a good northwest wind. I decided to spend my last ride on Sandy Hook where I did most of my training. Was one of the first people there at 6 am. Did a couple of loops till I reached 40 miles and then headed home. I was strong and kept a pace well above 15 miles and hour. Reached home with two miles to go. Did the final 5 loops around my development. My victory laps. Rene got the pictures of me finishing. Not the crowds that the Tour will have in Paris, but for me the sense of accomplishment is the same.
There is so much to talk about that I saw and experienced and learned about myself over these past three weeks. First, there is another world out there from 4:00 am to 7:00 am in the morning. The sunrise along the shore is spectacular. The wild life on Sandy Hook is fascinating. The smells you experience along the ride are so definitive. Ride thru small towns early and you can smell the bacon and eggs. Out in the farm land you can smell the horses and the manure. Along the ocean and seaport towns the fish smell is really prevalent. Sounds are always present. Sounds of the birds at 4:30 am. By 5 it is a full chorus and by 5:30 they are back asleep. When riding inland early you hear the roosters, the dogs barking as you ride by. On some main roads the cars let you know they are coming by honking and of course you get the young kids yelling at you. Then there is the best sound of all you experience on the lonely roads out in western NJ, that is the sound of silence. How peaceful the ride can be.
Today I had an epiphany. I had asked Rene the other day why she thought I was doing this. She said because I was bored and depressed. She was right. I needed a challenge to wake me up. Today I looked back on my life and this is what I found. 40 years ago I was in a similar position and discovered the marathon. Soon after getting involved in running my life got direction and I started two successful businesses. 20 years after that I again was down and my personal life was not good. This time I discovered triathlons and the Ironman Triathlon in Hawaii. After completing that I was introduced to a new business that turned out to be very successful. And the challenges in my personal life were resolved for the better. Now 20 years later at the age of 64, I have completed the third leg of my athletic trilogy. Once again the challenge and success of this endeavor has gotten my juices flowing again. I am re energized and I have a business model that I will now pursue with a huge amount of focus and dedication. I am positive that this will be very successful.
Several of my friends are retired and ask me well so are you joining us. Not now. I need competition and challenges, be it in the business world or athletic world. Now is the time for me to get serious again in the business world and do something I love doing. If you love it than it is not work. I am now ready to move on.
I learned so much on the road these past three weeks. It really has been a journey well worthy traveling. Let me thank all the supporters out there. You have been the motivation that I needed. Your donations will make a difference. Let me thank Bruce Robinson, Bob Rosa, Dick Cohen and Marc Bloom who came out and road with me during my rides. That was immensely helpful. Let me thank Jim Vacarro and his Team at Central Jersey Bank who sponsored my efforts and who helped with the awareness to the public and fundraising. To the Peddler Bike Shop in Long Branch who kept my bike going and kept me supplied with whatever I needed. A big thank you to Olga who gave me massages all year long and during the event to allow this 64 year old body to keep moving. For both my daugthers and their husbands, thank you for you concern and support, I needed it. Finally the biggest thank you goes to Rene. She has given up the month of July, the heart of the summer to be at my call. She had my food always there. She was available to get me when needed and was the ultimate support person. For that a huge thank you.
That's s it. I worked hard for 11 months to be able to punish my body for three weeks. Was it worth it. You bet. If you have a dream and a true passion to realize it, than the journey is the best part. Life is out there to be experienced and enjoyed any way that is right for you. Just go for it. Make that plan and set your goal, do the work consistently and persistently, and the dream will be yours for the taking.
Total Distance: 64 miles
Total Time: 4 hours and 15 minutes
Total Elapsed Time: 4 hours and 20 minutes
Total Distance the last 23 days: 2266 miles
Phil
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Saturday, July 24, 2010
One Day to Go
July 24, 2010,
Day 22 - 32.3 miles
Today was a real quick ride. Got up and was on the road while it was still dark. Had to be finished early as we are going to visit my grand daughter in camp. Left the house at 5 am and it was already 81 degrees outside. Luckily today was the time trial day. A short ride.
One day left. A ride of 65 miles. And then what? I will take tomorrow's blog and write down my thoughts of the past 3 weeks. This has truly been an amazing journey.
Happy Birthday to Rene. She has been the best support and wife anyone could ask for. Never could have done it without her.
Total Distance: 33 miles
Total Time: 2 hours and 14 minutes
Total Elapsed Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Phil
Day 22 - 32.3 miles
Today was a real quick ride. Got up and was on the road while it was still dark. Had to be finished early as we are going to visit my grand daughter in camp. Left the house at 5 am and it was already 81 degrees outside. Luckily today was the time trial day. A short ride.
One day left. A ride of 65 miles. And then what? I will take tomorrow's blog and write down my thoughts of the past 3 weeks. This has truly been an amazing journey.
Happy Birthday to Rene. She has been the best support and wife anyone could ask for. Never could have done it without her.
Total Distance: 33 miles
Total Time: 2 hours and 14 minutes
Total Elapsed Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Phil
Friday, July 23, 2010
Last Long Ride Completed
July 23, 2010
Day 21 - 123 miles
What a great feeling when I finished my ride today. It was the last long ride. Imagine, I have a ride of 65 miles on Sunday and I call that a short ride. A little crazy I think. Anyway today's ride went relatively well. I did 40 miles than met my friend Bruce, who has been really great by riding with me 4 times during the event. Today he rode with me for 50 miles. Whenever I ride with Bruce he pushes it for me. He tells me to ride my pace. If I do that I would be to far behind him. So I work and it feels good to push the pace. The weather was humid but there was a lot of cloud cover so we did no have to deal with the sun. After Bruce left I rode back home and did loops to finish the mileage I needed. I felt so good that there were some kids selling lemonade so I stopped bot a glass, had my cookies and then finished up.
My only problem today was that the saddle sores returned big time. Seating for the last 30 miles was challenging and a little painful. The good news is that there are only 2 days left and they are not that long. I can deal with it.
Total Distance: 123 miles
Total Time: 8 hours and 20 minutes
Total Elapsed Time: 9 hours
Phil
Day 21 - 123 miles
What a great feeling when I finished my ride today. It was the last long ride. Imagine, I have a ride of 65 miles on Sunday and I call that a short ride. A little crazy I think. Anyway today's ride went relatively well. I did 40 miles than met my friend Bruce, who has been really great by riding with me 4 times during the event. Today he rode with me for 50 miles. Whenever I ride with Bruce he pushes it for me. He tells me to ride my pace. If I do that I would be to far behind him. So I work and it feels good to push the pace. The weather was humid but there was a lot of cloud cover so we did no have to deal with the sun. After Bruce left I rode back home and did loops to finish the mileage I needed. I felt so good that there were some kids selling lemonade so I stopped bot a glass, had my cookies and then finished up.
My only problem today was that the saddle sores returned big time. Seating for the last 30 miles was challenging and a little painful. The good news is that there are only 2 days left and they are not that long. I can deal with it.
Total Distance: 123 miles
Total Time: 8 hours and 20 minutes
Total Elapsed Time: 9 hours
Phil
Thursday, July 22, 2010
A Great Ride
July 22,2010,
Day 20 - 108.1 miles
Who would have thought that with only three days to go I would have my strongest ride yet. After yesterday's rest day, a massage, an ice bath and a whole pizza, I was strong and had no pain. My saddle sores did not even hurt. Most amazing is that my legs felt fresh the whole ride.
Today I kept it completely on the flats knowing that tomorrow I will go west with Bruce and do hills and ride hard I am sure. I went to the Hook and did 10 mile loops. Marc Bloom a friend my age and athlete, met me for close to 3 hours of the ride. Really helped. When we were finished I ate my sandwich as Marc packed his bike. Luckily I stayed as he threw his key into the car and it disappeared. After about 10 minutes we found it. All things happen on these rides.
I left Marc and headed back to my area. I was going to stop at Central Jersey Bank for the last time to thank them and take pictures. Got there a little early but continued riding until they were ready for me. Got a great picture with Jim Vacarro and his Team. They have all been so supportive of my efforts and really want to thank them all. After I rode home and still felt good.
Tomorrow is my last long day, 122 miles. I plan on doing 40 very early and then picking up Bruce and hopefully he will stay with me for between 50 and 60 miles. And then I will finish the day. Saturday is 35 and Sunday 63. I now can see the finish line. Everything has gone so fast that it is hard to remember the rides. I guess when it is all done and I can take time to reflect I will realize what I have accomplished. I am really proud of the money we have raised and the good it will do. For that I want to thank everyone for their support.
Total Distance: 110 miles
Total Time: 7 hours and 45 minutes
Total Elapsed Time: 8 hours 30 minutes
Phil
Day 20 - 108.1 miles
Who would have thought that with only three days to go I would have my strongest ride yet. After yesterday's rest day, a massage, an ice bath and a whole pizza, I was strong and had no pain. My saddle sores did not even hurt. Most amazing is that my legs felt fresh the whole ride.
Today I kept it completely on the flats knowing that tomorrow I will go west with Bruce and do hills and ride hard I am sure. I went to the Hook and did 10 mile loops. Marc Bloom a friend my age and athlete, met me for close to 3 hours of the ride. Really helped. When we were finished I ate my sandwich as Marc packed his bike. Luckily I stayed as he threw his key into the car and it disappeared. After about 10 minutes we found it. All things happen on these rides.
I left Marc and headed back to my area. I was going to stop at Central Jersey Bank for the last time to thank them and take pictures. Got there a little early but continued riding until they were ready for me. Got a great picture with Jim Vacarro and his Team. They have all been so supportive of my efforts and really want to thank them all. After I rode home and still felt good.
Tomorrow is my last long day, 122 miles. I plan on doing 40 very early and then picking up Bruce and hopefully he will stay with me for between 50 and 60 miles. And then I will finish the day. Saturday is 35 and Sunday 63. I now can see the finish line. Everything has gone so fast that it is hard to remember the rides. I guess when it is all done and I can take time to reflect I will realize what I have accomplished. I am really proud of the money we have raised and the good it will do. For that I want to thank everyone for their support.
Total Distance: 110 miles
Total Time: 7 hours and 45 minutes
Total Elapsed Time: 8 hours 30 minutes
Phil
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
A Hard Rest Day
July 21, 2010,
Day 19 - 0 miles Rest Day
Today was supposed to be an easy day. First off I could not sleep last night and eventually got up at 4:30. Used the time to catch up with my personal and business life. Had a massage at 9 which was really good. Basically fell asleep on the table. After, I took my bike to be tuned up. Came home to see my grandchild and had some lunch. After that I got really tired, had a headache and felt like my stomach was upset. Lied down for a while and when I got up I felt a little better. Finally, I just finished eating most of a large Pizza for dinner.
Who needs rest days. I kept wondering when do I get on the bike and I kept looking to watch the Tour on TV. But of course it is a rest day for them also.
This has been a great experience for me both mentally and physically. People ask me what will take up your time after your done. I really don't think I will have a problem. Slowly get back into running, still bike some and more important concentrate on a new business I have started. Of course there is a growing family as my youngest daughter, Casey is pregnant awaiting her second child. I also will pursue public speaking in front of groups. I really have a lot to share about what it takes to be successful. Having spoken in front of large groups I would look forward to share my thoughts with people.
Well we are now down to the last four days. I have someone to ride with tomorrow for about 40 miles of the 110. Hopefully Bruce will ride with me on Friday for about 60 and the rains stay away. Saturday is a short day of 35 and then I have to go visit my granddaughter at her camp in Pa. Finally Sunday is the victory lap of 65 miles.
I know there are still more donations that will be in by Sunday. Right now I see $15,000 as realistic. Even if we don't hit the $20,000 mark, I know it will make a difference. For all those who have donated, thank you so much. The amount is not as important as the thought and where your heart is.
Off to take an ice bath and prepare food for tomorrow. For those at the main branch of Central Jersey Bank, I hope to stop there as a finish my ride tomorrow between 1 and 2.
Total Distance: 0 miles
Total Time: 0 hours
Phil
Day 19 - 0 miles Rest Day
Today was supposed to be an easy day. First off I could not sleep last night and eventually got up at 4:30. Used the time to catch up with my personal and business life. Had a massage at 9 which was really good. Basically fell asleep on the table. After, I took my bike to be tuned up. Came home to see my grandchild and had some lunch. After that I got really tired, had a headache and felt like my stomach was upset. Lied down for a while and when I got up I felt a little better. Finally, I just finished eating most of a large Pizza for dinner.
Who needs rest days. I kept wondering when do I get on the bike and I kept looking to watch the Tour on TV. But of course it is a rest day for them also.
This has been a great experience for me both mentally and physically. People ask me what will take up your time after your done. I really don't think I will have a problem. Slowly get back into running, still bike some and more important concentrate on a new business I have started. Of course there is a growing family as my youngest daughter, Casey is pregnant awaiting her second child. I also will pursue public speaking in front of groups. I really have a lot to share about what it takes to be successful. Having spoken in front of large groups I would look forward to share my thoughts with people.
Well we are now down to the last four days. I have someone to ride with tomorrow for about 40 miles of the 110. Hopefully Bruce will ride with me on Friday for about 60 and the rains stay away. Saturday is a short day of 35 and then I have to go visit my granddaughter at her camp in Pa. Finally Sunday is the victory lap of 65 miles.
I know there are still more donations that will be in by Sunday. Right now I see $15,000 as realistic. Even if we don't hit the $20,000 mark, I know it will make a difference. For all those who have donated, thank you so much. The amount is not as important as the thought and where your heart is.
Off to take an ice bath and prepare food for tomorrow. For those at the main branch of Central Jersey Bank, I hope to stop there as a finish my ride tomorrow between 1 and 2.
Total Distance: 0 miles
Total Time: 0 hours
Phil
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
A Long Hard Lonely Day
July 20, 2010
Day 18 - 124 miles
This is getting harder each day. For the past several days I was lucky to have people to ride with. Today I was by myself for the full 9 1/2 hour ride. Since the last 5 days were inland on the hills I decided to go to Sandy Hook and do loops there. When I got up this morning my back was really stiff from the hard push I did yesterday to miss the rain. I had Rene leave me water and food on the Hook. I went first south to Sea Girt and then to the Hook. Once on the Hook I did five 10 mile loops. Not easy with a strong wind blowing in one direction. It might seem that it is an easier ride because there are no hills and you have access to water and food right away. Wrong. Going over the same route again and again really tests you mentally. With my saddle sores it is better if I am constantly changing positions as I do when I go west with undulating roads. Anyway, will be at the Hook one more time on Thursday but I will be joined with a friend for a couple of hours which should help.
If you wonder what I think about for 9 hours alone, a lot of it is what will I write in the blog. Most of it never makes it to the blog because I m to tired to sit and write all my thoughts. Maybe a book someday. I am getting really tired. One week would have been great. Two weeks would have been OK. Three weeks is testing you physically and mentally. Absolutely no question that the riders in the real Tour de France are the best athletes in the world. Me, I am just one crazy old man who thinks he can turn back the clock. 4 days of riding left. Tomorrow is a est day.
Total Distance: 124 miles
Total Time: 8 hours and 57 minutes
Total Elapsed Time: 9 hours and 30 minutes
Phil
Day 18 - 124 miles
This is getting harder each day. For the past several days I was lucky to have people to ride with. Today I was by myself for the full 9 1/2 hour ride. Since the last 5 days were inland on the hills I decided to go to Sandy Hook and do loops there. When I got up this morning my back was really stiff from the hard push I did yesterday to miss the rain. I had Rene leave me water and food on the Hook. I went first south to Sea Girt and then to the Hook. Once on the Hook I did five 10 mile loops. Not easy with a strong wind blowing in one direction. It might seem that it is an easier ride because there are no hills and you have access to water and food right away. Wrong. Going over the same route again and again really tests you mentally. With my saddle sores it is better if I am constantly changing positions as I do when I go west with undulating roads. Anyway, will be at the Hook one more time on Thursday but I will be joined with a friend for a couple of hours which should help.
If you wonder what I think about for 9 hours alone, a lot of it is what will I write in the blog. Most of it never makes it to the blog because I m to tired to sit and write all my thoughts. Maybe a book someday. I am getting really tired. One week would have been great. Two weeks would have been OK. Three weeks is testing you physically and mentally. Absolutely no question that the riders in the real Tour de France are the best athletes in the world. Me, I am just one crazy old man who thinks he can turn back the clock. 4 days of riding left. Tomorrow is a est day.
Total Distance: 124 miles
Total Time: 8 hours and 57 minutes
Total Elapsed Time: 9 hours and 30 minutes
Phil
Monday, July 19, 2010
Mechanical I Am Not!
July 19, 2010,
Day 17 - 116.8 miles
So let me tell you what happened. Last night as I was putting air into my tires, I noticed that the rear tire was completely worn out and unsafe. The front tire also had a lot of wear. I have two extra wheels already to go so I put them on. This morning I am up and out at 5:15 as usual. It is a beautiful morning and actually cool. I rode into Colts Neck and experimented by riding some new roads. But as I road up the hills I just could not get up in the big gear and found it hard to even pedal in the small gear. I told myself that the last three days just wore me out. But something still did not feel right. I just could not get any momentum going. When I stopped for water at the 40 mile mark, I check my tires to make sure they were not going flat. They wre OK. Than I noticed the problem. When I put the new wheel on, I did not align the front wheel properly and it was rubbing against the brake. Stupid me. That is like driving your car with one foot on the gas and the other on the brake. I fixed it and off I went. Within 5 miles my legs recovered and I was as strong as ever. And I needed it.
By the time I had reached the shore in Sea Girt, I looked up and there was this huge thunderstorm approaching. To bad I wasn't riding with yesterdays group because I would have blown them away. I tried to out ride the storm. I was doing 25 miles and hour down the center of Ocean Avenue in Spring Lake. Not fast enough. I was able to get to one of the pavilions just as the storm struck. Rene said she would come and get me. By the time she arrived it had stopped raining and the sun was coming out. I rode home and then continued to complete the ride.
Forgot to tell you what happened yesterday. I was coming down a 1/2 mile hill at about 25 mph enjoying the downhill when out of nowhere comes a huge groundhog. Nothing I could do. I held the handle bars tightly and closed my eyes and prepared for the worst. He never stopped and I missed him by an inch. If I had hit him I would have gone flying. Groundhogs are to bikes as deer are to cars.
I am now down to 3 long days and 2 short ones. Hard to believe that it is almost over. Tomorrow is 122 miles and I am alone. Think I will take my Ipod and go to the Hook and do loops.
Total Distance: 117 miles
Total Time: 8 hours and 20 minutes
Total Elapsed Time: 9 hours
Phil
Day 17 - 116.8 miles
So let me tell you what happened. Last night as I was putting air into my tires, I noticed that the rear tire was completely worn out and unsafe. The front tire also had a lot of wear. I have two extra wheels already to go so I put them on. This morning I am up and out at 5:15 as usual. It is a beautiful morning and actually cool. I rode into Colts Neck and experimented by riding some new roads. But as I road up the hills I just could not get up in the big gear and found it hard to even pedal in the small gear. I told myself that the last three days just wore me out. But something still did not feel right. I just could not get any momentum going. When I stopped for water at the 40 mile mark, I check my tires to make sure they were not going flat. They wre OK. Than I noticed the problem. When I put the new wheel on, I did not align the front wheel properly and it was rubbing against the brake. Stupid me. That is like driving your car with one foot on the gas and the other on the brake. I fixed it and off I went. Within 5 miles my legs recovered and I was as strong as ever. And I needed it.
By the time I had reached the shore in Sea Girt, I looked up and there was this huge thunderstorm approaching. To bad I wasn't riding with yesterdays group because I would have blown them away. I tried to out ride the storm. I was doing 25 miles and hour down the center of Ocean Avenue in Spring Lake. Not fast enough. I was able to get to one of the pavilions just as the storm struck. Rene said she would come and get me. By the time she arrived it had stopped raining and the sun was coming out. I rode home and then continued to complete the ride.
Forgot to tell you what happened yesterday. I was coming down a 1/2 mile hill at about 25 mph enjoying the downhill when out of nowhere comes a huge groundhog. Nothing I could do. I held the handle bars tightly and closed my eyes and prepared for the worst. He never stopped and I missed him by an inch. If I had hit him I would have gone flying. Groundhogs are to bikes as deer are to cars.
I am now down to 3 long days and 2 short ones. Hard to believe that it is almost over. Tomorrow is 122 miles and I am alone. Think I will take my Ipod and go to the Hook and do loops.
Total Distance: 117 miles
Total Time: 8 hours and 20 minutes
Total Elapsed Time: 9 hours
Phil
Sunday, July 18, 2010
A Little Bit of Everything
July 18, 2010
Day 16 - 114.8 miles
What a day. After two days of hills and going inland, I did it again. Not really to smart but I wanted to ride with people. Got up and out the door by 5:15 am. Did 40 miles and then met Bruce and his group of Sunday riders. These are all experienced bikers and ride fast. Bruce said that since it is Sunday they would not be so quick. Not so quick for them is quick for me. There were about 10 of us all in a line. I was right in the middle and you really have to be alert. The pace was between 17 and 18 miles an hour. That is on the quick side for me considering what I had to do. If I had not biked 40 miles before and was not going to do another 40 after them and had not rode what I had for the past two weeks, it would have been no problem. I am strong enough to ride that fast for short distances but I did not want to push it today. After 15 miles, two riders went in a different direction and were going to do 15 more miles than Bruce's group at a slower pace. I went with them.
Turned out to be a nice ride. More hills but OK. What ws not OK was the weather. Temperature rose to over 95 degrees. We had struggled with a strong headwind for 30 miles and that also was not fun.
When I finished I was a little dehydrated and really tired. This is getting awfully taxing mentally. Not enough time to eat properly and do some work I have to do. If it wasn't for Rene I wouldn't have food to eat. I am writing this at 6 pm, I still have to eat, take an ice bath plan tomorrow's ride and get to bed by 8:30. You can tell I am getting a little frustrated. Oh well only one week left!
Total Distance: 115 miles
Total Time: 7 hours and 50 minutes
Total Elapsed time: 8 hours and 20 minutes
Total Weekly Distance: 721 miles
Total Weekly Time: 50 hours
Phil
Day 16 - 114.8 miles
What a day. After two days of hills and going inland, I did it again. Not really to smart but I wanted to ride with people. Got up and out the door by 5:15 am. Did 40 miles and then met Bruce and his group of Sunday riders. These are all experienced bikers and ride fast. Bruce said that since it is Sunday they would not be so quick. Not so quick for them is quick for me. There were about 10 of us all in a line. I was right in the middle and you really have to be alert. The pace was between 17 and 18 miles an hour. That is on the quick side for me considering what I had to do. If I had not biked 40 miles before and was not going to do another 40 after them and had not rode what I had for the past two weeks, it would have been no problem. I am strong enough to ride that fast for short distances but I did not want to push it today. After 15 miles, two riders went in a different direction and were going to do 15 more miles than Bruce's group at a slower pace. I went with them.
Turned out to be a nice ride. More hills but OK. What ws not OK was the weather. Temperature rose to over 95 degrees. We had struggled with a strong headwind for 30 miles and that also was not fun.
When I finished I was a little dehydrated and really tired. This is getting awfully taxing mentally. Not enough time to eat properly and do some work I have to do. If it wasn't for Rene I wouldn't have food to eat. I am writing this at 6 pm, I still have to eat, take an ice bath plan tomorrow's ride and get to bed by 8:30. You can tell I am getting a little frustrated. Oh well only one week left!
Total Distance: 115 miles
Total Time: 7 hours and 50 minutes
Total Elapsed time: 8 hours and 20 minutes
Total Weekly Distance: 721 miles
Total Weekly Time: 50 hours
Phil
Saturday, July 17, 2010
A Good Hard Ride
July 17, 2010
Day 15 - 121.9 miles
I really looked forward to this ride. I rode with Bruce today and he keeps me honest and pushes the pace just a little more than I am used to. I first did 43 miles before I picked up Bruce at his home. He lead me west at a pace of 16 mph which is about 1 1/2 more than I usually ride. We did some hills and I tried to keep up with him up the hills. Did OK. When we stopped for water and a drink, Bruce met some people he knew so we talked for about 5 minutes. I never take a break while riding. Get my drinks and eat as I peddle. This was good. Might do it again, not rush so much. Bruce led me for about 55 miles and then I went on hone to finish the last 22 miles. It got real hot so I did not push it. Great to get home just when the mileage says time to stop. Thanks Bruce, great job. Might meet him and his fellow riders tomorrow if my legs are OK.
For me I have broken the rest of the Tour into two stages. First stage consists of 3 more days and a rest day. The second stage are 4 days that are not to taxing. Imagine saying that 108 and 118 are not taxing. But I look at the last two days of 35
and 63 as the days I am shooting for. But my mind set is one day at a time and tomorrow is 115 miles.
Total Distance: 122 miles
Total Time: 8 hours and 10 minutes
Total Elapsed Time: 8 hours and 45 minutes
Phil
Day 15 - 121.9 miles
I really looked forward to this ride. I rode with Bruce today and he keeps me honest and pushes the pace just a little more than I am used to. I first did 43 miles before I picked up Bruce at his home. He lead me west at a pace of 16 mph which is about 1 1/2 more than I usually ride. We did some hills and I tried to keep up with him up the hills. Did OK. When we stopped for water and a drink, Bruce met some people he knew so we talked for about 5 minutes. I never take a break while riding. Get my drinks and eat as I peddle. This was good. Might do it again, not rush so much. Bruce led me for about 55 miles and then I went on hone to finish the last 22 miles. It got real hot so I did not push it. Great to get home just when the mileage says time to stop. Thanks Bruce, great job. Might meet him and his fellow riders tomorrow if my legs are OK.
For me I have broken the rest of the Tour into two stages. First stage consists of 3 more days and a rest day. The second stage are 4 days that are not to taxing. Imagine saying that 108 and 118 are not taxing. But I look at the last two days of 35
and 63 as the days I am shooting for. But my mind set is one day at a time and tomorrow is 115 miles.
Total Distance: 122 miles
Total Time: 8 hours and 10 minutes
Total Elapsed Time: 8 hours and 45 minutes
Phil
Friday, July 16, 2010
My Day In The Mountains
July 16, 2010
Day 14 - 130.8 miles
Yesterday I was afraid of today. It was another day of 130 miles. It was going to be in the high 90s and very humid and I had decided to ride my 110 mile course going west. I have not done that yet so to be honest I forgot how many hills were on the course. I did remember that with the day so hot I would need someone to meet me at about 50 miles with water and some food. Janice agreed to help me and I sure did need it. Thanks Janice.
The day started out at 5:15 am and I was lucky. There was a good cloud cover until about 8 am for me. Makes all the difference. Riding west it is about 10 degrees hotter than on the shore. As the sun broke thru the temperature began to rise. I really had to work this ride. In the first 30 miles there were several steep hills. Not to long but steep. Riding in the big gear I really worked hard. Pictured myself in the Alps just like the Tour riders are now doing. After 30 miles the roads flattened out till about 80 miles and then we had some more inclines and hills. Remember I am not comparing these to mountains, just hills. Also remember I am 64, it is 95 degrees and I am doing over 100 miles everyday. The surprising thing is I feel stronger each day and I am recovering each day. I must recommend an ice bath. They are great for the legs. All said an done, it was a good ride.
Tomorrow I am riding again with Bruce. I have to do 122 miles so I will try and get about 40 in before 8:30 and then ride as many as Bruce can handle and finish up on my way home. I am now in the home stretch. 4 more days than a rest day and than the last 4 days. The big question is: what will I do when this is finished?
Total Distance: 131 miles
Total Time: 9 hours and 15 minutes
Total Elapsed Time: 9 hours and 45 minutes
Phil
Day 14 - 130.8 miles
Yesterday I was afraid of today. It was another day of 130 miles. It was going to be in the high 90s and very humid and I had decided to ride my 110 mile course going west. I have not done that yet so to be honest I forgot how many hills were on the course. I did remember that with the day so hot I would need someone to meet me at about 50 miles with water and some food. Janice agreed to help me and I sure did need it. Thanks Janice.
The day started out at 5:15 am and I was lucky. There was a good cloud cover until about 8 am for me. Makes all the difference. Riding west it is about 10 degrees hotter than on the shore. As the sun broke thru the temperature began to rise. I really had to work this ride. In the first 30 miles there were several steep hills. Not to long but steep. Riding in the big gear I really worked hard. Pictured myself in the Alps just like the Tour riders are now doing. After 30 miles the roads flattened out till about 80 miles and then we had some more inclines and hills. Remember I am not comparing these to mountains, just hills. Also remember I am 64, it is 95 degrees and I am doing over 100 miles everyday. The surprising thing is I feel stronger each day and I am recovering each day. I must recommend an ice bath. They are great for the legs. All said an done, it was a good ride.
Tomorrow I am riding again with Bruce. I have to do 122 miles so I will try and get about 40 in before 8:30 and then ride as many as Bruce can handle and finish up on my way home. I am now in the home stretch. 4 more days than a rest day and than the last 4 days. The big question is: what will I do when this is finished?
Total Distance: 131 miles
Total Time: 9 hours and 15 minutes
Total Elapsed Time: 9 hours and 45 minutes
Phil
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Great To Have a Companion Rider
July 15,2010,
Day 13 - 114.5 miles
I was excited when I got up this morning because I knew I was going to meet a friend to ride 50 miles with me. As I have found out that really makes a difference. When I went outside I was expecting sun but got a very overcast sky. It did not rain and thus kept the beginning part of the ride rather cool. I headed south with a strong wind at my back. When I got into Spring Lake I saw a group of 6 riders heading north. I quickly turned around and with a strong effort caught them so I had someone to ride into the wind with. These were hardcore bikers and were really moving going into the wind. I didn't know if I should put out the effort to keep up with them but I did. They left me in Asbury Park to turn around while I was left alone to fight the wind for another 20 miles.
Got to the Hook right on time to meet Dick Cohen. At the age of 45 Dick biked across the country so he was no stranger to biking. He has not rode in a couple of years but said he would help me out. He was great. We did 5 ten mile loops on the Hook. Went real quick with company. A big thank you to Dick. So far Bob, Dick and Bruce have ridden with me and those days have been the best. After Dick finished and the sun came out, I headed home. A good ride. Tomorrow will be another story. It is a 131mile ride and the temperature is supposed to be in the high 90s.
Total Distance 115 miles
Total Time: 8 hours and 15 minutes
Total Elapsed time: 8 hours and 45 minutes
Phil
Day 13 - 114.5 miles
I was excited when I got up this morning because I knew I was going to meet a friend to ride 50 miles with me. As I have found out that really makes a difference. When I went outside I was expecting sun but got a very overcast sky. It did not rain and thus kept the beginning part of the ride rather cool. I headed south with a strong wind at my back. When I got into Spring Lake I saw a group of 6 riders heading north. I quickly turned around and with a strong effort caught them so I had someone to ride into the wind with. These were hardcore bikers and were really moving going into the wind. I didn't know if I should put out the effort to keep up with them but I did. They left me in Asbury Park to turn around while I was left alone to fight the wind for another 20 miles.
Got to the Hook right on time to meet Dick Cohen. At the age of 45 Dick biked across the country so he was no stranger to biking. He has not rode in a couple of years but said he would help me out. He was great. We did 5 ten mile loops on the Hook. Went real quick with company. A big thank you to Dick. So far Bob, Dick and Bruce have ridden with me and those days have been the best. After Dick finished and the sun came out, I headed home. A good ride. Tomorrow will be another story. It is a 131mile ride and the temperature is supposed to be in the high 90s.
Total Distance 115 miles
Total Time: 8 hours and 15 minutes
Total Elapsed time: 8 hours and 45 minutes
Phil
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
7 Hour Ride - INDOORS
July 14, 2010,
Day 12 - 111.2 miles
Before I went to bed last night I was hoping that the rain would hold off till the afternoon. I got up and looked outside and saw it was overcast but decided to give it a try. One block out it started to rain hard. I said let's go inside. Brought my bike downstairs and put it on my trainer. That's where I stayed for the next 7 hours. I trained all winter this way so it was not real hard. In fact, I welcomed the change from the same courses I have been riding outside. I put on CNBC, then I watched a preview for the British Open golf tournament that begins tomorrow and finally I was able to watch the whole stage of the Tour. I also put on a Spinerval DVD that I trained to during the winter. The DVD kept me focused and the Tour kept me motivated.
After 7 hours I wanted to ride the last hour outside, so I brought the bike up and started to ride outside. It looked like rain but wasn't. As it turned out it rained the last 45 minutes of my ride. But it was good to get outside and stretch my legs.
For me these are the "dog days" of the tour. These are long days and riding alone and repeating the courses can get to you. Tomorrow I have a friend who will ride about 50 miles with me and hopefully another friend who will ride with me on Friday or Saturday. Main objective is to get to next Wednesday, the rest day. After that there will be only 4 days of which two are very short.
I found a new snack to eat while I ride. Cheese crackers with peanut butter on them. The ones you get in vending machines. They are great for the ride. That along with my turkey sandwich, oatmeal raisin cookies and a banana, is my meal each day. It looks like the hot weather is returning over the next several days. I am ready for it.
Total Distance: 111.2 miles
Total Time: 8 hours
Total Elapsed Time: 8 hours and 30 minutes
Phil
Day 12 - 111.2 miles
Before I went to bed last night I was hoping that the rain would hold off till the afternoon. I got up and looked outside and saw it was overcast but decided to give it a try. One block out it started to rain hard. I said let's go inside. Brought my bike downstairs and put it on my trainer. That's where I stayed for the next 7 hours. I trained all winter this way so it was not real hard. In fact, I welcomed the change from the same courses I have been riding outside. I put on CNBC, then I watched a preview for the British Open golf tournament that begins tomorrow and finally I was able to watch the whole stage of the Tour. I also put on a Spinerval DVD that I trained to during the winter. The DVD kept me focused and the Tour kept me motivated.
After 7 hours I wanted to ride the last hour outside, so I brought the bike up and started to ride outside. It looked like rain but wasn't. As it turned out it rained the last 45 minutes of my ride. But it was good to get outside and stretch my legs.
For me these are the "dog days" of the tour. These are long days and riding alone and repeating the courses can get to you. Tomorrow I have a friend who will ride about 50 miles with me and hopefully another friend who will ride with me on Friday or Saturday. Main objective is to get to next Wednesday, the rest day. After that there will be only 4 days of which two are very short.
I found a new snack to eat while I ride. Cheese crackers with peanut butter on them. The ones you get in vending machines. They are great for the ride. That along with my turkey sandwich, oatmeal raisin cookies and a banana, is my meal each day. It looks like the hot weather is returning over the next several days. I am ready for it.
Total Distance: 111.2 miles
Total Time: 8 hours
Total Elapsed Time: 8 hours and 30 minutes
Phil
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
A 7 Hour Concert
July 13, 2010
Day 11 - 127 miles
Today was going to be a long one and I decided to head to Sandy Hook and do the loops out there. Heavy rain was forecast so I did not want to go to far from home. I took my iPod and listen to music for 7 of the 9 hour ride. Wonder what a 64 year old who is not a real music buff listens to, here goes. Bob Dylan, Bruce, James Taylor, Crosby Stills and Nash, Jimmy Buffet, The Dixie Chicks, Paul Simon, Simon and Garfunkel, Elton John and Meatloaf among others. Rather varied group all from the 60s and 70s. Keeps me moving along.
The ride started off real well. South east wind that did not bother me to much early on. There was a very heavy cloud cover but it seemed the rain would hold off. Humidity was high. Brought plenty of food and found a place on the Hook where I can get more water when needed. About the 60 mile mark it looked like the rain was coming. I headed home. Continued all the way back to Sea Girt, fighting a strong wind for 30 miles, where I had been hours earlier. I now had 90 miles and still needed 37 more. The rain came slowly. As I reached near my home, the heavens opened. It was raining so hard I just opened my mouth and it was like a cup of water came in. I was able to ride a 4 mile loop around my home. The rain slowed so I stayed outside. I just did not want to go inside. With 27 miles to go I saw lightening and heard thunder right by me. Inside I went for the last two hours. Luckily I was able to watch the end of the tour. Riding inside just kills my "butt". Long day but completed.
After I came in I saw my iphone had died. Spent the next hour in the ATT store getting a new phone. Came home ate dinner and now I am righting this and then going to bed to start over. I could use an hour of relaxing. Maybe in 12 days.
Total Distance: 128 miles
Total Time: 9 hours
Total Elapsed Time: 9 hours and 30 minutes
Phil
Day 11 - 127 miles
Today was going to be a long one and I decided to head to Sandy Hook and do the loops out there. Heavy rain was forecast so I did not want to go to far from home. I took my iPod and listen to music for 7 of the 9 hour ride. Wonder what a 64 year old who is not a real music buff listens to, here goes. Bob Dylan, Bruce, James Taylor, Crosby Stills and Nash, Jimmy Buffet, The Dixie Chicks, Paul Simon, Simon and Garfunkel, Elton John and Meatloaf among others. Rather varied group all from the 60s and 70s. Keeps me moving along.
The ride started off real well. South east wind that did not bother me to much early on. There was a very heavy cloud cover but it seemed the rain would hold off. Humidity was high. Brought plenty of food and found a place on the Hook where I can get more water when needed. About the 60 mile mark it looked like the rain was coming. I headed home. Continued all the way back to Sea Girt, fighting a strong wind for 30 miles, where I had been hours earlier. I now had 90 miles and still needed 37 more. The rain came slowly. As I reached near my home, the heavens opened. It was raining so hard I just opened my mouth and it was like a cup of water came in. I was able to ride a 4 mile loop around my home. The rain slowed so I stayed outside. I just did not want to go inside. With 27 miles to go I saw lightening and heard thunder right by me. Inside I went for the last two hours. Luckily I was able to watch the end of the tour. Riding inside just kills my "butt". Long day but completed.
After I came in I saw my iphone had died. Spent the next hour in the ATT store getting a new phone. Came home ate dinner and now I am righting this and then going to bed to start over. I could use an hour of relaxing. Maybe in 12 days.
Total Distance: 128 miles
Total Time: 9 hours
Total Elapsed Time: 9 hours and 30 minutes
Phil
Monday, July 12, 2010
REST DAY
July 12, 2010,
Day 10 - Rest
Hard to believe I have made it thru the first 10 days of the "Tour". For 11 months I wondered what it would be like to ride over a 100 miles every day for 3 weeks. Here is what I have found. Physically I have trained enough to do it. Unlike the marathon where it takes days and even weeks to recover to be able to run another marathon, here I am able to do it again the next day. Yes I get stiff and have some aches and pains but they are nothing like the pounding one gets from the marathon. What is much harder is the day to day mental grind it takes to be on the bike for 7 to 10 hours weeks in a row. The days I have had a companion, 2 of them, have made that ride easier. This is my fault. I really should have planned better if I knew this would have been the case. Some days I listen to the iPod, others I just listen to the wild life and the sounds of nature. Other days if I am feeling good, I dream that I am a "bike racer" and go for it.
The other challenge so far has been the weather. I have been lucky in that I have not had any rain yet. Missed the thunderstorms of last week. The heat the first three days was a real challenge but I survived. Over the next several days rain is forecast and I will have to adjust. In case of heavy rain I will come inside to finish the ride. Cloud cover has been a real blessing whenever it has occurred, but not to often.
The support I have gotten has really been fantastic. I am getting emails from people reading the blog and saying encouraging things. A lot of people are thinking of me and are concerned. Makes you feel good when you know people care. I truly appreciate that.
Even though I had a rest day today, I was at my desk trying to catch up with business and personal items at 5 am this morning. Then I had to get a massage and take my bike to be tuned up. So it might be a rest day from biking but not a "rest day" from daily life. To me these next 8 days will be the hardest mentally. I will find ways to play tricks with my mind to keep me motivated and moving forward.
Thanks to everyone for their support and encouragement and I am now ready for the next section of the event.
Total Distance Since the Start on July 4th - 970 miles (Average of 121.25 miles per day)
Phil
Day 10 - Rest
Hard to believe I have made it thru the first 10 days of the "Tour". For 11 months I wondered what it would be like to ride over a 100 miles every day for 3 weeks. Here is what I have found. Physically I have trained enough to do it. Unlike the marathon where it takes days and even weeks to recover to be able to run another marathon, here I am able to do it again the next day. Yes I get stiff and have some aches and pains but they are nothing like the pounding one gets from the marathon. What is much harder is the day to day mental grind it takes to be on the bike for 7 to 10 hours weeks in a row. The days I have had a companion, 2 of them, have made that ride easier. This is my fault. I really should have planned better if I knew this would have been the case. Some days I listen to the iPod, others I just listen to the wild life and the sounds of nature. Other days if I am feeling good, I dream that I am a "bike racer" and go for it.
The other challenge so far has been the weather. I have been lucky in that I have not had any rain yet. Missed the thunderstorms of last week. The heat the first three days was a real challenge but I survived. Over the next several days rain is forecast and I will have to adjust. In case of heavy rain I will come inside to finish the ride. Cloud cover has been a real blessing whenever it has occurred, but not to often.
The support I have gotten has really been fantastic. I am getting emails from people reading the blog and saying encouraging things. A lot of people are thinking of me and are concerned. Makes you feel good when you know people care. I truly appreciate that.
Even though I had a rest day today, I was at my desk trying to catch up with business and personal items at 5 am this morning. Then I had to get a massage and take my bike to be tuned up. So it might be a rest day from biking but not a "rest day" from daily life. To me these next 8 days will be the hardest mentally. I will find ways to play tricks with my mind to keep me motivated and moving forward.
Thanks to everyone for their support and encouragement and I am now ready for the next section of the event.
Total Distance Since the Start on July 4th - 970 miles (Average of 121.25 miles per day)
Phil
Sunday, July 11, 2010
A Great Great Ride
July 11,2010,
Day 9 - 117.4 miles
Some days everything goes right. Today it was perfect for me. I met a friend, Bob Rosa at 6 am. He agreed to ride about 50 miles with me which he did. Bob is a good rider and pushed the pace for me. I needed it. I rode in the big gear the whole time and attacked all the hills. I really felt that I got stronger as the ride progressed. It is so much easier mentally if you ride with someone. I really want to thank Bob for the company.I rode the whole ride west where there are rolling hills.
After Bob left and I was riding along, a group of 30 cyclists came up behind me. After they all passed, I upped my tempo and caught them and rode with the "peleton" for the next 3 miles. I had no problem pushing the pace and keeping up with them. I used every hill as my own race and blasted up the hills. Never went to the small gear. Legs burned but that was something I needed after being on the flats for several days.
The weather was hot but there were clouds at times that were really welcomed. The only problem I had was water. While riding west, there is a space where there are no stores. I saw a lady watering here garden and she was gracious enough to fill my water bottle withe water and ice. I needed it.
Tomorrow is a rest day and I will rest. I will take the time and write in the blog some thoughts about the first 9 days. Hard to believe that I have done nine days.
Total Distance: 118 miles
Total Time: 8 hours
Total Elapsed Time: 8 hours and 30 minutes
Phil
Day 9 - 117.4 miles
Some days everything goes right. Today it was perfect for me. I met a friend, Bob Rosa at 6 am. He agreed to ride about 50 miles with me which he did. Bob is a good rider and pushed the pace for me. I needed it. I rode in the big gear the whole time and attacked all the hills. I really felt that I got stronger as the ride progressed. It is so much easier mentally if you ride with someone. I really want to thank Bob for the company.I rode the whole ride west where there are rolling hills.
After Bob left and I was riding along, a group of 30 cyclists came up behind me. After they all passed, I upped my tempo and caught them and rode with the "peleton" for the next 3 miles. I had no problem pushing the pace and keeping up with them. I used every hill as my own race and blasted up the hills. Never went to the small gear. Legs burned but that was something I needed after being on the flats for several days.
The weather was hot but there were clouds at times that were really welcomed. The only problem I had was water. While riding west, there is a space where there are no stores. I saw a lady watering here garden and she was gracious enough to fill my water bottle withe water and ice. I needed it.
Tomorrow is a rest day and I will rest. I will take the time and write in the blog some thoughts about the first 9 days. Hard to believe that I have done nine days.
Total Distance: 118 miles
Total Time: 8 hours
Total Elapsed Time: 8 hours and 30 minutes
Phil
Saturday, July 10, 2010
I'm Not 24 Anymore!!
July 10, 2010,
Day 8 - 103 miles
It was a little harder getting out of bed this morning after the 10 hour ride yesterday. I guess I am not as young physically as I use to be. I struggled downstairs to get dressed and loosen up. Took a lot of determination to keep moving. But I accomplished it and got ready for the ride. I decided to go back to the Hook because there were heavy thunder storms forecast and I didn't want to be to far from home. The Hook is only 45 minutes as opposed to going inland where I could be 3 hours from home.
Today's ride was as peaceful as it gets. Overcast skies kept the crowds away from Sandy Hook and I basically had it all to myself. No sun which was a blessing and little wind. My only challenge today and it was a big one, was my saddle sores. This is really changing how I ride. I am slowing down because I have to constantly stand to take the pressure off my butt. This in turn lengthens the rides. A real no win situation. If ANYONE has a clue on how to get rid of these please let me know. My legs are great and mentally I am strong. Just that one situation.
Some people have asked what I am eating. Here is an overview. The first couple of days it was so hot I couldn't eat and lost some weight. Now my weight is steady at 138 to 140 and I feel strong. Before the ride begins I have two pieces of toast with jelly and some banana and a bottle of water. For the ride I have been eating a turkey sandwich on french bread. Now I will take two of them with me as I am still hungry. I have several oatmeal raisin cookies and a banana. Of course I have energy gels and an electrolyte drink and water. If I get real hungry I treat myself to a slice of pizza when I stop to buy more water. If the ride was west with hills and more strenuous, when I get home I am usually real hungry. Lately Rene has gone to Wegmans and bot several quarts of different pastas. I usually eat a quart of one of them right away with bread.I also have been making my favorite shake to drink. It consists of bananas, strawberries, blueberries, protein mix, orange juice, a special high antioxidant juice and ice. It is real good. For dinner which is usually about two hours later, I will have salad, baked potato, maybe some pizza or more pasta. Also I will throw in a protein, checkin or fish. Lately I have been having my favorite dessert, carrot cake. I burn anywhere from 5000 to 8000 calories each day
Tomorrow is the last ride before my first rest day. I will have a friend ride with me for about 50 of the 117 miles tomorrow. I plan on riding west to get off the flats for the day. Should be a fun ride if the "butt" isn't to bad.
Total Distance: 103 miles
Total Time: 7 hours and 27 minutes
Total Elapsed Time: 8 hours
Phil
Day 8 - 103 miles
It was a little harder getting out of bed this morning after the 10 hour ride yesterday. I guess I am not as young physically as I use to be. I struggled downstairs to get dressed and loosen up. Took a lot of determination to keep moving. But I accomplished it and got ready for the ride. I decided to go back to the Hook because there were heavy thunder storms forecast and I didn't want to be to far from home. The Hook is only 45 minutes as opposed to going inland where I could be 3 hours from home.
Today's ride was as peaceful as it gets. Overcast skies kept the crowds away from Sandy Hook and I basically had it all to myself. No sun which was a blessing and little wind. My only challenge today and it was a big one, was my saddle sores. This is really changing how I ride. I am slowing down because I have to constantly stand to take the pressure off my butt. This in turn lengthens the rides. A real no win situation. If ANYONE has a clue on how to get rid of these please let me know. My legs are great and mentally I am strong. Just that one situation.
Some people have asked what I am eating. Here is an overview. The first couple of days it was so hot I couldn't eat and lost some weight. Now my weight is steady at 138 to 140 and I feel strong. Before the ride begins I have two pieces of toast with jelly and some banana and a bottle of water. For the ride I have been eating a turkey sandwich on french bread. Now I will take two of them with me as I am still hungry. I have several oatmeal raisin cookies and a banana. Of course I have energy gels and an electrolyte drink and water. If I get real hungry I treat myself to a slice of pizza when I stop to buy more water. If the ride was west with hills and more strenuous, when I get home I am usually real hungry. Lately Rene has gone to Wegmans and bot several quarts of different pastas. I usually eat a quart of one of them right away with bread.I also have been making my favorite shake to drink. It consists of bananas, strawberries, blueberries, protein mix, orange juice, a special high antioxidant juice and ice. It is real good. For dinner which is usually about two hours later, I will have salad, baked potato, maybe some pizza or more pasta. Also I will throw in a protein, checkin or fish. Lately I have been having my favorite dessert, carrot cake. I burn anywhere from 5000 to 8000 calories each day
Tomorrow is the last ride before my first rest day. I will have a friend ride with me for about 50 of the 117 miles tomorrow. I plan on riding west to get off the flats for the day. Should be a fun ride if the "butt" isn't to bad.
Total Distance: 103 miles
Total Time: 7 hours and 27 minutes
Total Elapsed Time: 8 hours
Phil
Friday, July 9, 2010
The Longest Day of the Tour - Done
July 9, 2010,
Day 7 - 141.6 miles
What can I say, I survived the ride. Today was not to hard physically though I was on the bike for 10 hours. Mentally it became tough. Let me tell you what the day looked like.
I got up at 4:30 am as usual. Had my typical breakfast, two pieces of toast and jelly and a banana and water. Did my crunches and push ups to loosen up. Today I left my food out for Rene to bring to me as I decided to ride on Sandy Hook because of the saddle sores and thunder showers that were forecast but never came. I left at 5:30 and headed south to Sea Girt and then turned around and headed for the Hook. At 7:30 I listened to a conference call for a new business I am involved with. Meet Rene on the Hook with my food, water and ipod.
I had planned on doing 8, 10 mile loops on Sandy Hook. That is a true mental test. 5 miles into the wind and 5 miles with the wind to your back. An amazing thing happened. The temperature reached the high 80s and was penetrating. All around the Hook were clouds that I so desperately wanted to come over the Hook. No luck. It stayed perfectly clear and hot. I feel like you could fry and egg on my back. I did keep well hydrated though. For those people who know me thru my network marketing business, I listened to 8 hours of Earl Nightingale. Great personal growth stuff. Allowed me to think and solve some problems I have been having. If anyone out there is into personal growth, let me know and I will give you the info. This is by far the best 20 CDs on personal growth you will ever hear.
I was able to last for 5 loops on the Hook. Just got to hot. So I left and headed home. Needed another 30 miles to complete the day. Did some mileage near my home to finish the ride.
You might wonder how someone can stay on the bike for 10 hours. I wonder myself sometimes. But the answer is rather simple. You made a commitment, you stay focused on the end goal and you do it. Isn't that what success is all about. You can do really anything you want if you set your mind to it. It doesn't have to be an athletic endeavor, that is my love. It can be what you want. You just have to be committed where there is no turning back.
Two more days to my rest day. That is something I am looking forward to. 103 miles tomorrow. Remember if you have not signed in as a follower please do. It really motivates me to know who is reading the blog.
Total Distance: 141.6 miles
Total Time: 10 hours
Total Elapsed Time: 10 hours and 45 minutes
Phil
Day 7 - 141.6 miles
What can I say, I survived the ride. Today was not to hard physically though I was on the bike for 10 hours. Mentally it became tough. Let me tell you what the day looked like.
I got up at 4:30 am as usual. Had my typical breakfast, two pieces of toast and jelly and a banana and water. Did my crunches and push ups to loosen up. Today I left my food out for Rene to bring to me as I decided to ride on Sandy Hook because of the saddle sores and thunder showers that were forecast but never came. I left at 5:30 and headed south to Sea Girt and then turned around and headed for the Hook. At 7:30 I listened to a conference call for a new business I am involved with. Meet Rene on the Hook with my food, water and ipod.
I had planned on doing 8, 10 mile loops on Sandy Hook. That is a true mental test. 5 miles into the wind and 5 miles with the wind to your back. An amazing thing happened. The temperature reached the high 80s and was penetrating. All around the Hook were clouds that I so desperately wanted to come over the Hook. No luck. It stayed perfectly clear and hot. I feel like you could fry and egg on my back. I did keep well hydrated though. For those people who know me thru my network marketing business, I listened to 8 hours of Earl Nightingale. Great personal growth stuff. Allowed me to think and solve some problems I have been having. If anyone out there is into personal growth, let me know and I will give you the info. This is by far the best 20 CDs on personal growth you will ever hear.
I was able to last for 5 loops on the Hook. Just got to hot. So I left and headed home. Needed another 30 miles to complete the day. Did some mileage near my home to finish the ride.
You might wonder how someone can stay on the bike for 10 hours. I wonder myself sometimes. But the answer is rather simple. You made a commitment, you stay focused on the end goal and you do it. Isn't that what success is all about. You can do really anything you want if you set your mind to it. It doesn't have to be an athletic endeavor, that is my love. It can be what you want. You just have to be committed where there is no turning back.
Two more days to my rest day. That is something I am looking forward to. 103 miles tomorrow. Remember if you have not signed in as a follower please do. It really motivates me to know who is reading the blog.
Total Distance: 141.6 miles
Total Time: 10 hours
Total Elapsed Time: 10 hours and 45 minutes
Phil
Thursday, July 8, 2010
It Has Come Together
July 8, 2010,
Day 6 - 116.5 miles
Before I begin, I want to ask a favor of everyone reading my blog. I really would hope that you sign in as a follower so I know you are out there with me. I leave my home everyday at 5:30 am and I am gone for 8 to 10 hours by myself. If I know you are following me it really motivates me and makes me feel that I am not alone. Please just let me know you are there. And by all means leave me comments or questions. This is my commitment for 3 weeks and to know you are waiting to read about the days events is a big motivator for me. Thanks.
Today it all came together. This was the first day where the temperatures,at least in the beginning, was under 90. More important the first 90 miles were done with clouds in the sky. What a relief. When I opened the door to leave this morning, it was like I was walking into a sauna. 100% humidity and real foggy. It was actually OK. Had a light drizzle later in the ride which was great. The sun finally came out at 90 miles. By then I was back on the Shore with a nice breeze.
Today I had my last publicity appearance at a Central Jersey Bank branch. They have been really great in publicizing the event and helping me raise money. I was there at 9:00 for the shoot. I had already rode 45 miles on the Shore. After I went inland to Colts Neck and then back to the Shore to finish the miles.
Today everything went well. I started the day weighing 138 and lost only two pounds. I had a turkey sandwich on the ride. Had plenty of water and electrolyte drink. I treated myself to a slice of pizza and of course had my gels. When I came home I had some pasta and plenty more to drink. I felt strong during the ride right up till the end. A good friend of mine who is biker mentioned that as the weeks go by you are going to get much stronger. He is right. If the saddle sores would go away I would really be enjoying this. But I think they are here for the duration. They hurt when I get on at first and then I just keep moving my position on the bike and just block out the pain. This will not defeat me. By the way, my knee is fine. I just needed to get off the flats and do some rolling hills which I did yesterday and today.
So that's it for today. Feel good, well hydrated, I am eating again and for those who called and showed concern for me, thank you. I am now a lean mean biking machine. Tomorrow is 140 miles, let you know how that goes. Off to the ice bath now.
Total Distance: 116.5
Total Time: 8 hours 36 minutes
Total Elapsed Time: 9 hours (this includes stops for bathroom and to grab food)
Phil
Day 6 - 116.5 miles
Before I begin, I want to ask a favor of everyone reading my blog. I really would hope that you sign in as a follower so I know you are out there with me. I leave my home everyday at 5:30 am and I am gone for 8 to 10 hours by myself. If I know you are following me it really motivates me and makes me feel that I am not alone. Please just let me know you are there. And by all means leave me comments or questions. This is my commitment for 3 weeks and to know you are waiting to read about the days events is a big motivator for me. Thanks.
Today it all came together. This was the first day where the temperatures,at least in the beginning, was under 90. More important the first 90 miles were done with clouds in the sky. What a relief. When I opened the door to leave this morning, it was like I was walking into a sauna. 100% humidity and real foggy. It was actually OK. Had a light drizzle later in the ride which was great. The sun finally came out at 90 miles. By then I was back on the Shore with a nice breeze.
Today I had my last publicity appearance at a Central Jersey Bank branch. They have been really great in publicizing the event and helping me raise money. I was there at 9:00 for the shoot. I had already rode 45 miles on the Shore. After I went inland to Colts Neck and then back to the Shore to finish the miles.
Today everything went well. I started the day weighing 138 and lost only two pounds. I had a turkey sandwich on the ride. Had plenty of water and electrolyte drink. I treated myself to a slice of pizza and of course had my gels. When I came home I had some pasta and plenty more to drink. I felt strong during the ride right up till the end. A good friend of mine who is biker mentioned that as the weeks go by you are going to get much stronger. He is right. If the saddle sores would go away I would really be enjoying this. But I think they are here for the duration. They hurt when I get on at first and then I just keep moving my position on the bike and just block out the pain. This will not defeat me. By the way, my knee is fine. I just needed to get off the flats and do some rolling hills which I did yesterday and today.
So that's it for today. Feel good, well hydrated, I am eating again and for those who called and showed concern for me, thank you. I am now a lean mean biking machine. Tomorrow is 140 miles, let you know how that goes. Off to the ice bath now.
Total Distance: 116.5
Total Time: 8 hours 36 minutes
Total Elapsed Time: 9 hours (this includes stops for bathroom and to grab food)
Phil
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
The Shortest Day So Far - Only 95 Miles
July 7, 2010
Day 5 - 95 miles
The heat refuses to subside. It was again well into the 90s with high humidity. But today I had a secret weapon. A good friend rode with me for half the ride. Makes all the difference to have someone with you. I was able to stay outside the whole ride.
I left my home at 5:30 this morning and I was going to meet Bruce at his home at 8:30. So I did 42 miles before I picked Bruce up. We went to the Sea Girt branch of Central Jersey Bank for some publicity photos and then we headed west. This is the first day I got off the flats and did some hills. It was a pleasure. Bruce showed me where I could get water and I was well hydrated. Hard to eat because I am drinking so much. That is a problem I hope will go away as soon as the heat wave leaves. I really enjoyed the ride with Bruce. It kept me focused and I was able to keep the speed up a bit. The last 10 miles home by myself were hard. I was tired, the wind was in my face and it got hot. But I survived to ride another day.
I managed the saddle sores as best I could. Bruce, the owner of Miles Head Sports, got me a new pair of bike shorts that were really padded. They seemed to help. I also used some powder Rene had picked up and today I got medicine that hopefully will work.
Just want to take a second to let everyone know how great Rene has been during this. She is getting me food, delivering water when I need it and basically has given up her social life for July since I go to bed at 8 pm now. A big thank you to her.
Off to take an ice bath and eat, eat and eat.
Total Distance: 95 miles
Total Time: 6 hours and 38 minutes
Total Elapsed TIme: 7 hours and 15 minutes.
Phil
Day 5 - 95 miles
The heat refuses to subside. It was again well into the 90s with high humidity. But today I had a secret weapon. A good friend rode with me for half the ride. Makes all the difference to have someone with you. I was able to stay outside the whole ride.
I left my home at 5:30 this morning and I was going to meet Bruce at his home at 8:30. So I did 42 miles before I picked Bruce up. We went to the Sea Girt branch of Central Jersey Bank for some publicity photos and then we headed west. This is the first day I got off the flats and did some hills. It was a pleasure. Bruce showed me where I could get water and I was well hydrated. Hard to eat because I am drinking so much. That is a problem I hope will go away as soon as the heat wave leaves. I really enjoyed the ride with Bruce. It kept me focused and I was able to keep the speed up a bit. The last 10 miles home by myself were hard. I was tired, the wind was in my face and it got hot. But I survived to ride another day.
I managed the saddle sores as best I could. Bruce, the owner of Miles Head Sports, got me a new pair of bike shorts that were really padded. They seemed to help. I also used some powder Rene had picked up and today I got medicine that hopefully will work.
Just want to take a second to let everyone know how great Rene has been during this. She is getting me food, delivering water when I need it and basically has given up her social life for July since I go to bed at 8 pm now. A big thank you to her.
Off to take an ice bath and eat, eat and eat.
Total Distance: 95 miles
Total Time: 6 hours and 38 minutes
Total Elapsed TIme: 7 hours and 15 minutes.
Phil
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
A Very Hard Day
July 6, 2010
Day 4 - 132.2 miles
Today was a day that had everything. That I survived was i my eyes a great accomplishment. Tomorrow is another story. Here is how the ride went. Last night I went to bed at 8 pm and managed to sleep till 4 am when I got up. For food today I took a peanut butter and banana sandwich plus a banana and also a turkey sandwich. Left my home at 5:15 and headed south to Sea Girt. It was hot but not yet bad. Saw the most spectacular sunrise. A bright reddish orange sun forecasting the heat to come. Turned around and headed for Sandy Hook. I believed that it would be the coolest place to bike. After 40 miles I made it to the end of the Hook.
Rene met me there with water and my food and then headed home to worry about me. It was 8:30 and the temperature was already 90 degrees. I wanted to get as many miles I could outside because riding indoors has not been fun. The main reason are the saddle sores I got. Outside I can change positions, it is harder inside. I was able to do 80 miles outside and the rest indoors. Also when riding outside my knee started to hurt. In all my years running I never had a knee problem. Seems to be OK now, but I will ice it soon. Took my ice bath about an hour after getting home. They are great
I have lost about 5 pounds and I am trying to eat. Drinking a lot of water has bloated me so it is a real challenge. But I will eat. My biggest problem is sitting on the bike. I have medication coming tomorrow and I got a new pair of pants to try.
To be honest the heat does not bother me that much. I am drinking a lot. If can only get over the saddle sores. But they say the only way to do that is rest. My first rest day is Monday and it probably is not long enough. When the pain is real bad I look down at the names on my bike and say this is a small deal that I can overcome.
Tomorrow is a shortday - only 95 miles!!!!!!!!!!! Suppose to be hot again but I am riding with a friend. First time I will have company. That should help.
Total Distance: 132.2 miles
Total Time: 9 hours and 45 minutes
Total Elapsed Time: 10 hours and 30 minutes
Phil
Day 4 - 132.2 miles
Today was a day that had everything. That I survived was i my eyes a great accomplishment. Tomorrow is another story. Here is how the ride went. Last night I went to bed at 8 pm and managed to sleep till 4 am when I got up. For food today I took a peanut butter and banana sandwich plus a banana and also a turkey sandwich. Left my home at 5:15 and headed south to Sea Girt. It was hot but not yet bad. Saw the most spectacular sunrise. A bright reddish orange sun forecasting the heat to come. Turned around and headed for Sandy Hook. I believed that it would be the coolest place to bike. After 40 miles I made it to the end of the Hook.
Rene met me there with water and my food and then headed home to worry about me. It was 8:30 and the temperature was already 90 degrees. I wanted to get as many miles I could outside because riding indoors has not been fun. The main reason are the saddle sores I got. Outside I can change positions, it is harder inside. I was able to do 80 miles outside and the rest indoors. Also when riding outside my knee started to hurt. In all my years running I never had a knee problem. Seems to be OK now, but I will ice it soon. Took my ice bath about an hour after getting home. They are great
I have lost about 5 pounds and I am trying to eat. Drinking a lot of water has bloated me so it is a real challenge. But I will eat. My biggest problem is sitting on the bike. I have medication coming tomorrow and I got a new pair of pants to try.
To be honest the heat does not bother me that much. I am drinking a lot. If can only get over the saddle sores. But they say the only way to do that is rest. My first rest day is Monday and it probably is not long enough. When the pain is real bad I look down at the names on my bike and say this is a small deal that I can overcome.
Tomorrow is a shortday - only 95 miles!!!!!!!!!!! Suppose to be hot again but I am riding with a friend. First time I will have company. That should help.
Total Distance: 132.2 miles
Total Time: 9 hours and 45 minutes
Total Elapsed Time: 10 hours and 30 minutes
Phil
Monday, July 5, 2010
Someone Please Turn Off the Heat
July 5, 2010,
Day 3 - 124.9 miles
Nobody said this was going to be easy. And let me tell you it sure is not. I was excited after yesterday's since it was the longest ride and I survived. Well today was another day and it does not get easier. I had a couple of things working against me today. First the heat. It was hot and getting hotter. I left real early again but by 10 am the heat was really getting to me. I was drinking water and fluid replacement. I also discovered something else. I am not eating enough on the rides. Have to take another sandwich and some cookies and other food. I lost several pounds today. Most water but I have to eat. Must confess that I was sick the last week leading up to the event. Had a stomach virus that kept from eating. So I started the event with my weight on the low side. Starting to feel stronger now but since I am drinking so much water I have to almost force myself to eat.
Finally the dreaded saddle sores have appeared big time. For 11 months I never had them.Now I have them and they hurt. I have to keep changing my positions in order to ride with the least amount of pain. I am using cream with medication, but other rides say rest is the only way for them to go away. My first rest day is Monday. A minor issue to deal with.
Today I did 90 miles outside and then the heat forced me inside to finish the ride. Even tough I rode all winter inside, I don't really like coming in and finishing the ride this way. It is suppose to be another brutal tomorrow so I probably have one more day of it.
Total Distance: 125 miles
Total Riding Time: 8 hours and 39 minutes
Total Elapsed Time: 9 hours and 5 minutes
Phil
Day 3 - 124.9 miles
Nobody said this was going to be easy. And let me tell you it sure is not. I was excited after yesterday's since it was the longest ride and I survived. Well today was another day and it does not get easier. I had a couple of things working against me today. First the heat. It was hot and getting hotter. I left real early again but by 10 am the heat was really getting to me. I was drinking water and fluid replacement. I also discovered something else. I am not eating enough on the rides. Have to take another sandwich and some cookies and other food. I lost several pounds today. Most water but I have to eat. Must confess that I was sick the last week leading up to the event. Had a stomach virus that kept from eating. So I started the event with my weight on the low side. Starting to feel stronger now but since I am drinking so much water I have to almost force myself to eat.
Finally the dreaded saddle sores have appeared big time. For 11 months I never had them.Now I have them and they hurt. I have to keep changing my positions in order to ride with the least amount of pain. I am using cream with medication, but other rides say rest is the only way for them to go away. My first rest day is Monday. A minor issue to deal with.
Today I did 90 miles outside and then the heat forced me inside to finish the ride. Even tough I rode all winter inside, I don't really like coming in and finishing the ride this way. It is suppose to be another brutal tomorrow so I probably have one more day of it.
Total Distance: 125 miles
Total Riding Time: 8 hours and 39 minutes
Total Elapsed Time: 9 hours and 5 minutes
Phil
Sunday, July 4, 2010
It Was Not Easy
July 4, 2010
Day 2 - 138.9 miles
What a day. I did things I have never done before or experienced before. This is how the day went. Got up at 4 am because that is when I woke up. Since sunrise is not until 5:30 am you really can't get on the road until 5:15 which is what I did. Did something smart. I put my water bottle in the freezer half full the night before and then in the morning filled it the rest of the way. Really kept the water cold for a longer time. I planned with Rene to meet me on Sandy Hook at 8:30 with the food I prepared and more water.
When I went on the road it was cool and beautiful. Spectacular sunrise. I rode down to Sea Girt and I was the only one on the roads. The crowds did not arrive yet. Then I headed back to Sandy Hook. Still not hot yet and the wind was out of the west which is a cross wind and was not bad. By the time I reached the Hook around 7:30 the crowds where coming. I wanted to stay on the Hook as long as I could before the crowds just made it impossible. I was able to stay there thru 85 miles. Did loops on the bike path and the roads which really was not bad. When I knew I had to leave, they had actually closed Sandy Hook to cars as it was at capacity. The temperature had also gone over 90 degrees. I decided to do the rest of the miles around my home.
There was so much traffic on Ocean Ave that I had to turn and go inland into Rumson. Here is where I felt the heat. Now over 95 degrees. I started cramping and had to stop twice because the cramps where so bad. Bot more water and decided to do the prudent thing and head for home and finish the miles in my basement. I did 110 miles outside and the rest inside on my trainer.Those last 30 miles inside where not easy. I was tired, a little dehydrated and ready to be done. Finally I finished.
After a shower I had pizza and Gatorade and I am still drinking a lot of water to get rehydrated.There is no doubt in my mind now, that the Tour de France is the hardest athletic event. Those guys race this and have mountains and also the heat. Give me a break. I am going to now take an ice bath to refresh my legs and go to sleep. Tomorrow is another day and the temperature is getting hotter. Probably split this up between outside and inside.
My thought for the day: Be careful what you dream about, it might come true!
Total Distance: 139 miles
Total Bike Time: 9 hours 37 minutes
Total Elapsed Time: 10 hours and 25 minutes
Phil
Day 2 - 138.9 miles
What a day. I did things I have never done before or experienced before. This is how the day went. Got up at 4 am because that is when I woke up. Since sunrise is not until 5:30 am you really can't get on the road until 5:15 which is what I did. Did something smart. I put my water bottle in the freezer half full the night before and then in the morning filled it the rest of the way. Really kept the water cold for a longer time. I planned with Rene to meet me on Sandy Hook at 8:30 with the food I prepared and more water.
When I went on the road it was cool and beautiful. Spectacular sunrise. I rode down to Sea Girt and I was the only one on the roads. The crowds did not arrive yet. Then I headed back to Sandy Hook. Still not hot yet and the wind was out of the west which is a cross wind and was not bad. By the time I reached the Hook around 7:30 the crowds where coming. I wanted to stay on the Hook as long as I could before the crowds just made it impossible. I was able to stay there thru 85 miles. Did loops on the bike path and the roads which really was not bad. When I knew I had to leave, they had actually closed Sandy Hook to cars as it was at capacity. The temperature had also gone over 90 degrees. I decided to do the rest of the miles around my home.
There was so much traffic on Ocean Ave that I had to turn and go inland into Rumson. Here is where I felt the heat. Now over 95 degrees. I started cramping and had to stop twice because the cramps where so bad. Bot more water and decided to do the prudent thing and head for home and finish the miles in my basement. I did 110 miles outside and the rest inside on my trainer.Those last 30 miles inside where not easy. I was tired, a little dehydrated and ready to be done. Finally I finished.
After a shower I had pizza and Gatorade and I am still drinking a lot of water to get rehydrated.There is no doubt in my mind now, that the Tour de France is the hardest athletic event. Those guys race this and have mountains and also the heat. Give me a break. I am going to now take an ice bath to refresh my legs and go to sleep. Tomorrow is another day and the temperature is getting hotter. Probably split this up between outside and inside.
My thought for the day: Be careful what you dream about, it might come true!
Total Distance: 139 miles
Total Bike Time: 9 hours 37 minutes
Total Elapsed Time: 10 hours and 25 minutes
Phil
Saturday, July 3, 2010
It Has Begun
July 3, 2010
DAY 1 - 5 miles
It was a beautiful day to start the event. Weather was perfect. I had my whole family down to see the beginning. I rode the first 5 miles with Jim Vaccaro of Central Jersey Bank, my sponsor. We had pictures taken for the papers and overall a fun day.
Hard to believe that it is underway. I am excited to see what happens. There are some many unknowns and things that can happen. That is the beauty of a sporting event. You have to play it to see what happens. We shall see. The rest of the day I will take it easy. Going to lunch with my kids and grand kids and then I will prepare for the ride tomorrow. I have decided to stay on the shore because of the heat. I will start as soon as the sun rises, about 5:30 am.
Total Distance: 12 miles
Total Time: 55 minutes
Phil
DAY 1 - 5 miles
It was a beautiful day to start the event. Weather was perfect. I had my whole family down to see the beginning. I rode the first 5 miles with Jim Vaccaro of Central Jersey Bank, my sponsor. We had pictures taken for the papers and overall a fun day.
Hard to believe that it is underway. I am excited to see what happens. There are some many unknowns and things that can happen. That is the beauty of a sporting event. You have to play it to see what happens. We shall see. The rest of the day I will take it easy. Going to lunch with my kids and grand kids and then I will prepare for the ride tomorrow. I have decided to stay on the shore because of the heat. I will start as soon as the sun rises, about 5:30 am.
Total Distance: 12 miles
Total Time: 55 minutes
Phil
Friday, July 2, 2010
Training is Done
July 2, 2010,
I have been waiting for this day for a very long time. 11 months of training is now in the books. What I am so grateful for is that I did not have a major fall and the flats I had were early on and not during long rides. What happens from now on is part of the event. I really feel I am mentally ready and I believe, though only time will tell, that I am physically ready to do this. As with any event it is all about the journey to get to the starting line. For me it was the 11,000 miles I did in training and the focus I was able to keep to get to today. I am proud of what I have done. Raising in excess of $10,000 for the LAF has been a cause worth doing.
I have put the names of cancer survivors on my bike so I can look at them and know that my battle pales in comparison to theirs.
Tomorrow is the ceremonial first day and I will ride 5 miles for a prologue. The work begins on Sunday and goes for 22 more days. I will write my experiences each day to let you experience what is happening to me during the day.
Today I rode very easy and was so excited when I got off the bike in one piece. I made it to the starting line.
Crunches: 300
Push Ups: 60
Total Distance: 15 miles
Total Time: 1 hour and 6 minutes
Phil
I have been waiting for this day for a very long time. 11 months of training is now in the books. What I am so grateful for is that I did not have a major fall and the flats I had were early on and not during long rides. What happens from now on is part of the event. I really feel I am mentally ready and I believe, though only time will tell, that I am physically ready to do this. As with any event it is all about the journey to get to the starting line. For me it was the 11,000 miles I did in training and the focus I was able to keep to get to today. I am proud of what I have done. Raising in excess of $10,000 for the LAF has been a cause worth doing.
I have put the names of cancer survivors on my bike so I can look at them and know that my battle pales in comparison to theirs.
Tomorrow is the ceremonial first day and I will ride 5 miles for a prologue. The work begins on Sunday and goes for 22 more days. I will write my experiences each day to let you experience what is happening to me during the day.
Today I rode very easy and was so excited when I got off the bike in one piece. I made it to the starting line.
Crunches: 300
Push Ups: 60
Total Distance: 15 miles
Total Time: 1 hour and 6 minutes
Phil
Easy Day
July 1, 2010
Got an early start for my next to last day of training. It was very cool outside as I wore a long sleeve shirt for the first time in a long time. Road north to Sea Bright and than back home. Really looking forward to tomorrow.
Crunches: 300
Push ups 50
Total Distance: 25 miles
Total Time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Phil
Got an early start for my next to last day of training. It was very cool outside as I wore a long sleeve shirt for the first time in a long time. Road north to Sea Bright and than back home. Really looking forward to tomorrow.
Crunches: 300
Push ups 50
Total Distance: 25 miles
Total Time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Phil
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