tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41406352270956145952024-03-14T11:58:45.403+13:00The ramblings of an athlete who can't retire...Cabinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04502176318313111878noreply@blogger.comBlogger206125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4140635227095614595.post-86820590818230177702014-02-20T10:25:00.001+13:002014-02-20T10:25:16.436+13:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jh_CwVnH3h0/UwUfzJDlFpI/AAAAAAAABYI/m5iiuaEPFcY/s1600/YeahBoiSick+Race.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jh_CwVnH3h0/UwUfzJDlFpI/AAAAAAAABYI/m5iiuaEPFcY/s1600/YeahBoiSick+Race.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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I did a race! For the first time in months.... so used a suitably innapropriate bike. Tuesday nights "Yeah Boi Sick" race in the redwoods. The second running of an event to celebrate the memory of James "Dodzy" Dodds, and raise funds for the skills park to be constructed in his memory. And threw on my Rotorua in Gear T-Shirt to honour the memory of another great friend - Paddy Avery.<br />
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A lung burning blast up Nursary Rd, and a blast down Exit trail. Followed by Round 2 on the sketchy drop and root infested old exit trail. Fun on a trail bike, difficult on a hardtail, on a CX bike.....?! Got down most of it with a short run after chain derailment, hung on for grim death through these roots shown above, and then managed to throw a nice wee whip over the ramped log the ends the trail. To which I can just hear what Dodzy's voice with what his reaction would be....<br />
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... "Yeah Boi.... Sick"Cabinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04502176318313111878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4140635227095614595.post-76576810760579084492013-12-05T19:44:00.004+13:002013-12-05T19:47:06.271+13:00Famously Rotorua<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's kinda funny what you see sometimes. Especially what you can (or choose) to read into things. Had one of those moments this week when flicking through a midweek edition of the NZ Herald. Featuring a pull-out magazine highlighting Rotorua. Whilst I am currently residing in Auckland, the pull of Rotorua remains very strong. So obviously such a magazine is going to grab my interest. So I started at the front side of the mag...</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UoqJDLz8qnA/UqAa5B5yLFI/AAAAAAAABXc/G3iFHkG_D9M/s1600/Famously+rotorua.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UoqJDLz8qnA/UqAa5B5yLFI/AAAAAAAABXc/G3iFHkG_D9M/s320/Famously+rotorua.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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... "Famously Rotorua" promoting the various activities and attractions the region has on offer. I opened it up and saw this guy ...<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0YeDqzF4tkM/UqAbBzPcKFI/AAAAAAAABXk/S1fkt3Rx42M/s1600/MTB+Trail.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0YeDqzF4tkM/UqAbBzPcKFI/AAAAAAAABXk/S1fkt3Rx42M/s320/MTB+Trail.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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...then I flicked to the back section. "Proudly Rotorua" promoting the region as a great place to live and work...<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GMJufW4yPys/UqAfMOtcN4I/AAAAAAAABXw/mdAR9OH6xFQ/s1600/Proudly+Rotorua.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GMJufW4yPys/UqAfMOtcN4I/AAAAAAAABXw/mdAR9OH6xFQ/s320/Proudly+Rotorua.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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... which I open up to see this guy...<br />
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... can't help feeling like someone is trying to tell me something?!<br />
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Cabinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04502176318313111878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4140635227095614595.post-38769715663271652452013-11-14T16:20:00.002+13:002013-11-14T16:20:55.687+13:00Exploring something different<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Went exploring on the weekend on what turned into a bit of an epic. At a secret location where I know of numerous (and awesome) Moto trails. Had planned on a 45min or so skid. Was having too much fun and started following arrows. After 1hr30 I realised it was the 30km+ loop from a recent 6hr Moto race. I didn't have a water bottle... but I did have jelly snakes</div>
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Some brutally steep ups</div>
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Some rather exciting downs</div>
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And some spectacular views</div>
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Didn't think to use the camera earlier in the awesome single track. I think I only pulled it out later. Perhaps to record my last moments if I never made it out?! Almost 3hr, 30km and 1000m climbing later; after a few wrong turns/long grovelly bike carries/and scrambling to safety after disturbing 6 wild piglets (scared the parents were nearby) I made it back to the car. Massively dehydrated, hungry, and exhausted.</div>
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Might have to do that again next week</div>
Cabinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04502176318313111878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4140635227095614595.post-61367317741300710712013-11-05T16:46:00.000+13:002013-11-05T17:02:32.248+13:00People are good<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So despite the massive lack of posting activity that may suggest something to the contrary... I am still here folks. During those few months there was also a significant lack of racing or exercise motivation. I did punch out a couple of 3rd places in the N-Duro MTB series, and Mud Warrior CX events, but then it all went a bit pear shaped really. Too many life changes equalling a not so happy camper. It wasn't an easy few months but its all pretty good right now. Thanks to one thing really.... People.</div>
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People are good</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gUTeDwJnGHA/UnhlnKo_4EI/AAAAAAAABVM/TMGwTLKl3BU/s1600/MTB+with+Louis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="207" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gUTeDwJnGHA/UnhlnKo_4EI/AAAAAAAABVM/TMGwTLKl3BU/s320/MTB+with+Louis.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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People like Louis Crosby, dragging me out for wednesday night (and occasional Sunday) skids</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xKwFdwtcDK4/Unhl3pdwqyI/AAAAAAAABVU/JWClKWd4MIk/s1600/Moto+with+Pauly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xKwFdwtcDK4/Unhl3pdwqyI/AAAAAAAABVU/JWClKWd4MIk/s320/Moto+with+Pauly.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Or Pauly B. Good for a bit of a laugh at the MX track when I can get there</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CEPsT3TbSqQ/Unhl6b09THI/AAAAAAAABVc/S3meXCiHcig/s1600/ma+and+pa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CEPsT3TbSqQ/Unhl6b09THI/AAAAAAAABVc/S3meXCiHcig/s320/ma+and+pa.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Family of course. Mum and Dad who got me to hang out for a great week in Noosa. There was also Luke and Lisa but I was too lazy (or talking too much) to pull a camera out</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IlhA7X6ILu8/UnhmAYtk6TI/AAAAAAAABVk/4JDAFzwPsn8/s1600/Ra.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IlhA7X6ILu8/UnhmAYtk6TI/AAAAAAAABVk/4JDAFzwPsn8/s320/Ra.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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People like this Madman. Ra Bana. Perhaps the most generous person I've ever met, and when I decided I couldn't be bothered racing the last two NDuro events, let me take my KTM into the forest for <strike>a good hoon</strike> lead moto and track clearance duties instead</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1lgBDa5n_p8/UnhmDftUnHI/AAAAAAAABVs/Qx8XdRD2KDI/s1600/533609_10151134028898803_940285416_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1lgBDa5n_p8/UnhmDftUnHI/AAAAAAAABVs/Qx8XdRD2KDI/s320/533609_10151134028898803_940285416_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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My adopted family here who let me hang out on weekends and distract me with childs play</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-guINPtOvLOw/UnhmGuV0IKI/AAAAAAAABV0/OiBBRGz315k/s1600/CX+shot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-guINPtOvLOw/UnhmGuV0IKI/AAAAAAAABV0/OiBBRGz315k/s320/CX+shot.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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Oh yeah... there were a couple of races in there....</div>
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People like Mops. An amazing host in Wanaka for a few days. And of course old man Mikey, my MTB and Moto buddy.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j5V5A1EGQj4/UnhmNYzAIUI/AAAAAAAABWE/ER-aUBp3pVQ/s1600/sam+c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="194" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j5V5A1EGQj4/UnhmNYzAIUI/AAAAAAAABWE/ER-aUBp3pVQ/s320/sam+c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This wild untamed bushman who is always good for some random chat about anything over a coffee</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hb_odsZEC_A/UnhmQZ2S-tI/AAAAAAAABWM/Bvo4XwC0Vkc/s1600/Tiger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hb_odsZEC_A/UnhmQZ2S-tI/AAAAAAAABWM/Bvo4XwC0Vkc/s320/Tiger.jpg" width="235" /></a></div>
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Or <strike>the biggest poser</strike> one of the most genuine guys in MTB/Tri. Always keen for a lunch date when in town</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PNjPPm5_K5w/UnhmSjFMwzI/AAAAAAAABWU/3AE13xRyaus/s1600/Roz+and+Joel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PNjPPm5_K5w/UnhmSjFMwzI/AAAAAAAABWU/3AE13xRyaus/s320/Roz+and+Joel.jpg" width="319" /></a></div>
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These two who'll make a cuppa then <strike>happily</strike> patiently listen to any inane rambling that comes out of my mouth</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3VsWWTBLko8/UnhpWCmB5dI/AAAAAAAABWg/x-SFf_soJ1M/s1600/olly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3VsWWTBLko8/UnhpWCmB5dI/AAAAAAAABWg/x-SFf_soJ1M/s320/olly.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Or this guy who is so genuine and appreciative its a pleasure to assist him with his racing</div>
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To be honest if I keep on posting pics of the people I could put up here I'll be here all night. So I better stop. Suffice to say people are good. All those countless people who've made themselves available for a beer, a meal, or a cafe catchup as I travelled round the country. You know who you are. Friends are awesome.<br />
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And to all those out there I haven't seen in some time... look forward to the next time we catch up for a beer. Or a coffee maybe...depends what time of the day I guess :)</div>
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Cabinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04502176318313111878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4140635227095614595.post-90861911629135430852013-07-14T21:48:00.001+12:002013-07-14T21:48:11.694+12:00Innapropriate bicycles....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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First round of the winter N-Duro MTB series last week. Having been on the road on a sales trip for the week prior I had two bikes in the car to choose from. Potentially both equally inappropriate for a fast XC event. In the end i chose the one with no suspension, drop bars, and 38mm deep carbon wheelset....</div>
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Did I mention non-tubeless is one retro set-up i could do without? Two tube changes in the first 4km saw me dead last by a long way. However a rocket ship of a bike up hill (and maybe 36/25 as granny forced that) had me back to 10th by the end (although I only made it to 2nd in the womens race - sonia smashed me).</div>
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riding a glorified road bike in singletrack was a pretty interesting experience. If I'd become lazy with riding habits this is certainly a way to get you thinking about what you are doing! moving time on the GPS showed I could have been pretty close to the front so plenty of positives. And a week later my arms and shoulders have finally stopped aching.</div>
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Will I use it again? Maybe. Although the thought of using 3 different styles of bike bike in each of the 3 races is kind of appealing too. Got a few weeks to decide</div>
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<br />Cabinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04502176318313111878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4140635227095614595.post-55084860536587662632013-06-20T15:14:00.000+12:002013-06-20T15:14:58.914+12:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3WAToV4YCUU/UcJw2JDrXJI/AAAAAAAABUs/w2bksh5dxJk/s1600/Moto+boots.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3WAToV4YCUU/UcJw2JDrXJI/AAAAAAAABUs/w2bksh5dxJk/s320/Moto+boots.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
A change of footwear this weekend, some important lessons, and a only a couple of injuries.....<br />
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Needing a bit of a blow out mentally, I lined up for the last round of the Dirt Guide XC series. A 2hr Moto event. Bit of a change from the previous weekends which had gone XC MTB, Duathlon, then Trail Running. Instead this weekend it was the KTM 125 that would power me around the course.<br />
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Not having ridden trail in over 6 mths (or at all since March), lining up on a startline was a bit of a risk. So with no competitive intentions I just kind of followed, and watched what others in front were doing. This is not good. Ride to your strengths people. Lack of focus, and laziness in control led to a number of fairly major moments, that could've been worse. A few tweaks and sprains see me sporting some lovely pink Kinesio tape this week. But it's not too bad.<br />
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Generally I was doing 30-31min laps. My 3rd lap was the important lesson. Having had a quick refuel, I headed out in clear space. I focussed on riding smooth and "safe" fast. Riding my lines, and getting clear of others as soon as possible. Suddenly I rode a 28min lap, with far more control.<br />
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The lesson? In any activity, when there is risk involved, maintain some focus. You don't have be giving 100%, but that 80-90% commitment is a grey area where your mind wanders and dangerous things happen. Be aware of what you are doing. Have fun, but stay safe.<br />
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In the meantime everyone should watch this for an example of what amazing imagination, commitment, and skill can produce...<br />
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http://imaginate.redbull.com/<br />
<br />Cabinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04502176318313111878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4140635227095614595.post-26116609838807223492013-06-11T15:47:00.002+12:002013-06-11T15:47:50.746+12:00Working on making my legs hate me a little less....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After a week of hobbling around due to my self-inflicted leg damage from 3D's efforts, I figured my running could do with a bit of attention. So rather than plan a sensible slow base run, I took the usual approach of finding an event. Conviently the 2nd race of the <a href="http://www.trailrun.co.nz/aucklandseries/index.php" target="_blank">XTERRA Trail Run</a> series was on in the nearby Riverhead Forest.</div>
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I woosed out of the "Super Long" course option, and just signed up for the Long. So 18km all offroad, with around 500m vertical climbing; combined with torrential overnight rain, and clay based tracks, and slippery snotty goodness awaited everyone. It wasn't going to be an easy day. I ran a solid (if a little conservative) race, and trotted in 1hr20 odd later in 2nd place, around 3min down. Happy with that.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rxu9M-gA4r0/UbabGxCDHYI/AAAAAAAABTI/AT0hAo0k7w4/s1600/riverhead+shoes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rxu9M-gA4r0/UbabGxCDHYI/AAAAAAAABTI/AT0hAo0k7w4/s320/riverhead+shoes.jpg" width="179" /></a></div>
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Despite knowing full well what the conditions were likely to be, I ran in the totally innapropriate racing flats (my trail shoes are in storage in Rotorua). Still they worked out ok.</div>
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About 1km in and the RNZAF boys have already smacked it off the front. At this point I am already realising that maybe its not that cold and I could be a bit overdressed.</div>
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Nearing the finish and I am sure this carefully placed log caused cramping issues for many. While I look clean, its only because I'd fallen in a deep puddle 30sec earlier...</div>
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I'm often made aware of how much MTB race courses cut up in the wet and how much worse conditions can be for athletes further back in the field. Apparently running is no different as this young fella in the short course event demonstrates.<br />
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And even the photographers couldn't escape the conditions. Fun and challenging times allround. Hopefully I can make a couple more events in the series. Certainly a great way to learn some new terrain.Cabinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04502176318313111878noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4140635227095614595.post-19071843193021523622013-06-07T14:59:00.000+12:002013-06-07T14:59:10.962+12:00My legs hate me<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There's a saying bandied around in sport that goes along the lines of "form is temporary, class is permanent". I think the <a href="http://3drotorua.co.nz/" target="_blank">3D</a> multisport festival last week proved to me that a) any past MTB results were the result of well planned training (ie form), and that b) maybe I am really a runner....</div>
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After being dealt a hiding in the paddle leg of the Multisport race last year, I opted for the Duathlon option this time around. With some ptrretty stiff competition it was never going to be easy. Starting with the seperate MTB event the pace was pretty hot right through. Sam Gaze eventually skipped clear, chased hard by Olly, as I drifted off to a distant 3rd. Out of sight, out of mind, Olly's gap on me sneaked out to almost 2min by the end of the ride. Although I did score a couple of Strava KOM's. The other boys can't have uploaded their GPS files?!</div>
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Credit where its due though, as he smashed it. Accounting for the variation in courses (more on the Du option), he was probably a couple of minutes quicker than both Richard Ussher and Dougal Allen. So it was a bit dissapointing he missed the prize for quickest MTB split. Maybe next year the organisers could put a timing mat where the courses merge? </div>
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Onto the run I pushed hard but felt awful. Legs cramping. Forced to walk the stairs. And this was in the first 1km. While I've raced plenty in recent times, any actual training has been next to nothing, so I was paying the price. I started to feel better midway through, and to my surprise caught a glimpse of Olly near the finish as I closed fast. 2nd across the line, and the days fastest Duathlon run (and bettered by just two of the multisporters), saw me close the gap to just over 20sec. Happy with that. Apparently I'm a runner? Even if I have been barely able to walk all week since...</div>
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It's been a mad week, as I then went straight to Sydney for a work conference. The super keen (and somewhat mad) Magellan brand manager had arranged a few CX bikes, and before I knew it I was seeing Sydney from the seat of bike at 5:30 each morning. Turned out to be pretty adventurous. TT smashfests on a bike jammed in little ring. Dragging brakes. Getting an opening truck door to the side of the head in traffic. Paniced missions in rush hour traffic running late for meetings. And one legged pedalling missions after Tony stripped the pedal out of his crank. 100+ km in a couple of days exploring sydney in the small hours. Was quite Epic.<br />
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The cycling highlight of the Sydney trip was riding tis stair/ramp on the CX bike in amongst commuter cycling traffic pushing/carrying their bikes. Apparently its rarely done, and the bridge security was most impressed. My riding buddy perhaps not so impressed as aparently his attempts ended with stalls and crashes about 3/5 of the way up....Cabinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04502176318313111878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4140635227095614595.post-41244682265944847252013-05-27T15:47:00.002+12:002013-05-27T15:52:01.502+12:00woodhill360<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am rapidly making up for the summer off competition, by stacking the events in in quick succession. This weekend it was the turn of the innagural <a href="http://www.woodhill360.com/" target="_blank">Woodhill 360</a>. A 6hr event run by Tim Farmer as a fundraiser for his attempt at the years 24hr Worlds. Tim's a good bugger and does plenty for the MTB community so it was only right to show our faces.</div>
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Unfortunately the rain settled in. More fortunately, it was woodhill, and sand holds up pretty well to moisture. In fact it often gets better. Having only ridden out there twice in about 6 years or more it took me sometime to establish some flow. Thankfully<a href="http://ollyshaw.blogspot.co.nz/" target="_blank"> Olly</a> had already given me a headstart, as with our team only consistuting two of us we had decided on long (i.e. 1hr30) stints each.<br />
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Olly was solid. Banging out the laps, and luckily I was able to string together some old man consistency to maintain the gaps we were developing. Eventually we cleared out to a pretty solid winning margin. Good days training banked, and the demanding nature of the track caught up with us later. There was no big climbs, but the constant undulation added up. Turns out my 5 laps (45km ish) included over 1000m climbing<br />
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We got this sweet handcrafted trophy that Tim whipped up in his garage. We also got some chocolate; but that was gone before prizegiving ended.....Cabinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04502176318313111878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4140635227095614595.post-21727667356274085972013-05-22T10:41:00.003+12:002013-05-22T10:43:00.459+12:00Moonride 2013 Despite my annual insistence I am done with the event... somehow I keep finding myself back at Waipa, fronting the starter for the annual and somewhat iconic moonride. This time under the guise of promotional duties for my new workplace where amongst my duties is sales of <a href="http://www.magellangps.co.nz/Products/Fitness" target="_blank">Magellan</a> fitness GPS products. So a solid team was assembled and the Magellan Strava-Tards (Louis Crosby, Olly Shaw, Graham Norman, Josh Kenyon, and myself) were unleashed to take on the young guns of Team Endura and off to Rotorua we went.<br />
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The boys and girls at <a href="http://www.mtbrotorua.co.nz/cafe/" target="_blank">MBR</a> had assisted in planning out a pretty cool loop. Unfortunately the weather didn't want to play ball, and what had been a great track was shortened to a less gruelling loop. A good move for safety, but the downside being increased wheel traffic on the trails that were used, and consequently a huge amount of track deterioration throughout the day. As shown pictorially<br />
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Late in my first lap (around 2hrs or so into the event), already trying to seek out the drier less muddied lines. Ever the optimist?!</div>
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One lap (14min or so) later and the strain is already starting to show on the face. Out on course we were witnessing amazing crashes and mishaps. People falling down banks I never even realised existed, as they couldn't even maintain footing on small pinches that in the dry you almost roll up with no pedalling... yet now you could barely stand on.</div>
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Hands up if you've ridden Rotorua? So you'll know Tahi trail... the really easy flowing grade 2 trail getting everyone into the forest. 6hrs or so into the race and it was way faster to run</div>
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Some parts of the trails were still rideable. Sometimes. With care. Anyone who survived even one lap later in the day (and especially at night) intact and still smiling deserves a medal. It was pretty epic</div>
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The easy open stuff through the tent village on the grass (?) was holding up really well too. There were some interesting and entertaining crashes throughout the day</div>
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Despite the challenges the boys kept up their spirits, ate plenty of lollies, and maintained some pretty solid form all day. So much so that the small lead edged out, to a final winning margin of 1 lap + another 9 or 10mins. Pretty solid display, and earned us all one of these medals.</div>
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Even better... with an earlier start time, and the race cut an hour short..... I was home, showered, and warm in bed by 10pm. Bonus!</div>
Cabinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04502176318313111878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4140635227095614595.post-76240055956057133832013-05-09T20:31:00.003+12:002013-05-09T20:31:38.874+12:00Avanti Quantum 3.0 - Buy me.....New toys and adventures are currently on the to do list. So a few things need to go, including my road bike. So get yourself a mint deal<br />
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2012 Avanti Quantum 3.0 - Medium (55cm) Retail's for ~$4500 and upgraded with carbon wheelset<br /> <br />* ADT R4 Carbon,Performance Road Geometry - Carbon fork/steerer <br />* Full Ultegra groupset (cranks are 172.5 length with 53/39 rings) <br />* Zero 38mm carbon clincher wheelset <br />* Zero strike pro carbon bars and seatpost. Fizik saddle<br />
* Will be sold with brand new Kenda Kriterium tires <br /> <br />Bike is 12mths old, but only moderate use and very well maintained. Asking $2600. Offers to cabinracing@gmail.com <br />
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Cabinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04502176318313111878noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4140635227095614595.post-14821721639887236132013-05-07T11:50:00.002+12:002013-05-07T11:50:41.201+12:00199 posts.....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I noticed that the total posts on this blog was sitting at 199 - so to honor that significant milestone, here's a wee video link to the Mr 199 and one of the most amazing/craziest moments in sport<br />
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It seems I have inadvertently returned to racing as its suddenly becoming regular habit again. Good thing I didn't announce retirement as I'd be looking like an idiot now! Instead I've reverted to the "train little race - frequently" style of keeping in shape. Seems to work ok Deciding we needed a Magellan presence at the T42 on the weekend I gathered up my gear and <a href="http://ollyshaw.blogspot.co.nz/" target="_blank">Olly Shaw</a> and headed south. As you can see from the start pic its a spectacular location worth the trip in itself.</div>
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Race went suprisingly well. I was the holder of the course best time until Saturday. That now belongs to Carl Jones, who skipped off up the road and won by a few minutes. So he should, he left for the european world cups this morning. I did manage to hang on for 3rd, and I now hold the strava KOM for <a href="http://app.strava.com/activities/52616956" target="_blank">42 traverse</a> ....... at least until Carl uploads the data from his Magellan.</div>
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Must have worked pretty hard as we blew up enough post race that the 36km road ride back to the car took just as long as the 46km MTB race did. And the bag of natural confectionary company dinosaurs lasted 60sec. Followed promptly by a rushed trip to BK turangi.... Ouch. So a good day of training banked. I can put my feet up again until the next event.</div>
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<br />Cabinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04502176318313111878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4140635227095614595.post-50508734288288640942013-04-29T21:29:00.002+12:002013-04-29T21:29:34.999+12:00simplification<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Just one day after SingleSpeed nationals and the gears have gone back on my hardtail already as really; I am a bit soft. But there is something to be said for the simplification that less gears brings. So while the buzz over XX1 groupsets continues, I started to search for a more affordable option and here it is. Chainring from <a href="http://wolftoothcomponents.com/Home_Page.html" target="_blank">wolftooth components</a> married to an XTR clutch derailleur. Solid, quiet, simple. Highly reccomended. Cabinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04502176318313111878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4140635227095614595.post-43125042235627905982013-04-29T10:33:00.003+12:002013-04-29T20:21:42.622+12:00NZ Singlespeeds 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I seem to pretty regularly preach to people that events need to be fun, and if they're not then maybe it is time to re-evaluate. But its not so easy sometimes to genuinely follow that yourself. Especially when the competitive ego gets in the way. Which is why events like Singlespeeding really are so cool. While it hadn't been on the cards at all until a week ago, I am so stoked I got on board and joined the party.</div>
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While on one hand the NZ Singlespeed
champs is really just the biggest mountainbiking adult fancy dress party of the
year, it’s still worth a bit of hard effort once the “race” starts. So dressed as
Ralph - The Greatest American hero - I had clearly inherited super powers and
with my cape flapping in the breeze (and only occasionally snagging trees) I
streaked out to a lead of more than a minute during the first lap of three. Not the first time in such a situation.
However clearly i must have an unconscious desire not to be tattoo’ed (to honour the title it is
tradition for the winner to receive a tattoo), as it soon became apparent that I had done a stellar job of sabotaging
my own bike that I had hastily assembled 24hrs prior. Thus a slipping chain
began to hamper my progress. Still trying to ride (and run) as fast as possible…. Mainly
to get back to the beer tent as quickly as I could each lap. Did some sweet
jumps and wheelies. Tried a few whips and even a couple of nose wheelies. Was the 3rd participant to cross the line - or receive a 3rd beer. Depends which way you look at it. Which in this event is
actually 2<sup>nd</sup> equal….. along with everyone else.</div>
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One of these days I'll prepare more
thoroughly...... or not...</div>
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<br />Cabinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04502176318313111878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4140635227095614595.post-66269294957869343182013-04-05T12:00:00.000+13:002013-04-05T12:00:06.669+13:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So Easter was pretty fun (and busy). Nic headed off sailing in the Bay of Islands for 5 days with her parents leaving me home alone. I was kind of good and did the lawns, trimmed the hedges, vaccumed the house etc... But more importantly managed to cram some good times in.</div>
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Did some training. But also added in a few rounds of golf, some quality time at the moto track, and had an awesome times helping guide around a bunch of aussies from an MTB tour group. Amazing how much cooler your local trails seem when surrounded by a bunch of new recruits in awe of the trails. Suddenly appreciate how good we've got it. Enjoyed the company of the infamous "Rick Moss" from <a href="http://flowmountainbike.com/" target="_blank">Flow</a> MTB. He made me ride the <a href="http://avantibikes.com/nz/bikes/mountain/trail-mtb/coppermine-2/" target="_blank">Coppermine</a> so hard I ended up breaking spokes (maybe that was casing a gap jump... maybe). Good times. I look forward to re-enacting this cheesy photo op on some iconic australian mtb trail in the not too distant future.</div>
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Cabinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04502176318313111878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4140635227095614595.post-15898374902582898872013-03-27T10:49:00.001+13:002013-03-27T10:49:18.058+13:00Sponsorship: Advice for young players I am aware that there are many younger athletes that read this blog..... and many times I have resisted the temptation to launch into a frustrated rant about what sponsorship means and why MTB's situation may never get any better until the riders stop expecting handouts and instead start working to developing the sport, its profile, and therefore its meaning to the community.<br />
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Today, I stumbled across this piece from cyclingnews' James Huang.<br />
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I urge all aspiring athletes to read it with an open mind, and discuss it with others. Ask questions if you need to. It explains things quite well. Remember its not about you, its about what you can do for brand X<br />
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<a href="http://www.bikeradar.com/fitness/article/angryasian-sponsorship-is-not-about-you-36841/">http://www.bikeradar.com/fitness/article/angryasian-sponsorship-is-not-about-you-36841/</a><br />
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Over the years I have had this discussion with many, many people. Some get it. Others it seems to go in one ear and out the other - and they still expect handouts.<br />
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I've had some good branding success over the years with CabinRacing, Aunt Bettys Cycling, and Black Dirt Racing. What goes unseen is the untold hours behind the scenes: relationship building with sponsors/media/event organisers. Media releases. Debriefs. School visits. Community coaching. The list goes on. <br />
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My plea to our current and future athletes? Put in the hard yards on the sponsorship front. Stop expecting handouts. Be proud and passionate about your choices to pursue this hobby. Be an ambassador, and you can help change the professional opportunties in our sport.<br />
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Cabinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04502176318313111878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4140635227095614595.post-41865624676207182822013-03-20T15:26:00.002+13:002013-03-20T15:26:47.926+13:00Highlander 40km<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So I did an event on the weekend. Been a while! Decided it was worth a hit out so lined up for the 40km at last weekends Highlander. Decided to use the Coppermine in full trail ride mode. Climbed ok. Descents were suddenly heaps of fun. 2hrs and a bit later....</div>
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Bit smashed after ~1100m climbing and masses of singletrack. Oly Shaw smoked me. Brett blew up in 2nd but I fell about 30sec short of catching him. 3rd. Solid. And way less beat up than on my hardtail. Funny that?! Must do it again.</div>
Cabinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04502176318313111878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4140635227095614595.post-55128741906069536202013-03-14T16:23:00.001+13:002013-03-14T16:23:14.338+13:00New toy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Not racing seriously for a period of time has its advantages. For instance 1) A few (well, a lot) more extra dollars saved in the pocket. And 2) less need for a one purpose specialist bike. Which got me thinking as to what bike I might choose if I only had one bike. You know, something that climbs well, but is super fun downhill. Really sure footed on rough trails. Reliable etc...<br />
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.... so I bought/built one. And here she is. An Avanti Coppermine 2, with customized spec. For the tech geeks read below for spec's. For everyone else, all you need to know is its super fun to ride!<br />
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Avanti Coppermine 2 (Medium) - 130mm travel 29er<br />
Fox 34 fork<br />
Stans Arch EX All Mtn Wheelset<br />
XT Trail brakes (180 rotors)<br />
KS Lev dropper post<br />
SRAM XX1 crankset<br />
X9 type 2 derailleur + Trigger shifter<br />
XT Cassette<br />
~13kgCabinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04502176318313111878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4140635227095614595.post-48648460312919914622013-03-05T15:03:00.000+13:002013-03-05T15:03:00.654+13:00Just Chillin....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
A quick wee post to ensure everyone knows we are still alive and kicking! As we said in our last update we've just been enjoying a summer of cruising rather than structured and focussed training. In fact I (Cabin) have effectively retired - for the 2013 NZ race season at least. However the weekend just been was interesting for us mentally as between the Karapoti Classic (<em>the</em> iconic NZ MTB race), Ironman NZ, XTERRA Phillipines we watched the progress of friends from a distance.... and perhaps started to feel some pangs of competitive urge. I consequently punched out a hilly 1hr30 trail run, then tried to keep up with Oly Shaw for a 3hr+ MTB ride....had to have a wee nap later!</div>
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It's been kinda nice being on the sidelines and away from any pressure of expectation. Of course theres always too much going on in the way of real fun so we haven't been totally inactive. Been utilising my Magellan and doing a bit of Stava training as I burgle a few KOM's now and then. I even managed two events.... and used Nic's 20"BMX for both. The yeah boi sick MTB race in December. But then the Rotorua Bike Festival "Bike Speedway". 4 laps sprint races on a short, loose gravel oval track. NO BRAKES. and contact allowed. Pretty fun, and more than a little sketchy. Gotta be good training for something. Triathlon swims perhaps?!</div>
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<br />Cabinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04502176318313111878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4140635227095614595.post-84300635510394208552013-01-10T14:02:00.000+13:002013-01-10T14:02:06.130+13:00New Year update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy New Year, and welcome to 2013. Looking at the blog I figured its probably long overdue for a catch up?! Yes we are still here, but what are we up to?</div>
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I figured the pic above is probably a pretty good summary of whats been going on. Basically nothing too serious! Taken at the "yeah boi, sick" race back in December. A FUNdraising event for a soon to be constructed MTB Skills park in memory of James Dodds. A TT effort up Nursary Road, and down Exit trail. Cleary both myself and Graeme Pearson had differing takes on what would be appropriate (or most innapropriate?!) for what was essentially an XC Time Trial. Was great fun for sure.</div>
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Pretty much, since Maui (for me) and Annaconda (for Nic) there has been a distinct lack of structured training. While we have remained active, the focus has certainly been elsewhere. Nic has concentrated hard on successfully developing her business (Nic Leary Physical Therapy) and to be honest I have simply lacked focus!</div>
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Instead I've enjoyed a pretty relaxed summer. Exercise has been sporadic. I've enjoyed playing on the Moto, watching other sports, and even tried to rejuvinate my golf swing. We even tried to master sailing Keiths (Nic's Dad) Hoby Catamaran. Nic more successfully than I.</div>
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So whats next? Well I am still to figure that out! Reflecting on the past year it has been a bit of a mixed bag, with moderate success. Being honest with myself I think I have struggled for full focus. Since my Moto crash in late 2011 I think I have become a bit timid, and lost a bit of confidence in my abilities and let doubts creep in. As such I find myself doing a wee bit of soul searching as I contemplate whats next. What do I really want to do? Not wanting to commit to any "serious" training buildup until I am 100% confident in my goals/ambitions whatever they may be. Its a stange feeling after 10+ yrs of thinking I knew exactly what I wanted to do.</div>
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So instead its a matter of rebuilding my fitness, and enjoying opportunities that may present themselves along the way. </div>
Cabinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04502176318313111878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4140635227095614595.post-80137647961942919542012-11-24T09:02:00.000+13:002012-11-24T09:23:19.088+13:00Radio Sport interview<br />
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Bit of a radio interview on Radiosport on Friday. Was quite fun really. Pretty cool to do a live national radio show, hoefully didn't waffle too much! If you want a listen click on the links below. Its kinda long, and the links are generic to 15min blocks on the station, so in three parts<br />
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Part one... starts about a minute in.</div>
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<a href="http://content.radionetwork.co.nz/weekondemand/radiosport/61515.mp3">http://content.radionetwork.co.nz/weekondemand/radiosport/61515.mp3</a><br />
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Part two... maybe fast forward the section fom 8min - 12:30 (theres some golf news at that point).</div>
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<a href="http://content.radionetwork.co.nz/weekondemand/radiosport/61530.mp3">http://content.radionetwork.co.nz/weekondemand/radiosport/61530.mp3</a><br />
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Final part runs to<br />
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<a href="http://content.radionetwork.co.nz/weekondemand/radiosport/61545.mp3">http://content.radionetwork.co.nz/weekondemand/radiosport/61545.mp3</a><br />
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Hopefully I'm not the last MTB athlete to get the privilage!</div>
Cabinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04502176318313111878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4140635227095614595.post-60314594450946355132012-11-22T20:54:00.000+13:002012-11-22T20:54:30.012+13:00On the telly....<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Current TV spot. Prime and Sky Sport apparently</div>
Cabinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04502176318313111878noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4140635227095614595.post-43028154965846414342012-11-20T14:23:00.001+13:002012-11-20T14:26:17.043+13:00Lake Waikaremoana Challenge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Just back from a very cool weekend camped out on the rugby fields of Tuai, inland from Wairoa. Gateway to Lake Waikaremoana and some spectacular examples of the wild NZ back country landscapes that make our little corner of the world so special.</div>
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As nice of a getaway as it was, there was a purpose to the trip, as we towed the line at the reformed Lake Waikaremoana Challenge. A spectacular, and very testing 2 day multisport race attracting some of NZ's best talent. We were there to take on the teams category, full of assorted legends and Olympions; and partnered up with Nick Hirschfeld, and Andrew Newick. We enjoyed some fierce competition balanced with the great camraderie and spirit that these events generate.</div>
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In the final washup we finished second to "Busch roofing." A team comprising argueably NZ's best open water paddler Dan Busch, and the amazing pig hunting/beard growing/dairy farming/mtn running phenomenon that is Sjors Corporaal. Unfortunately for us their "weak" link was anything but, as Karen Hanlen proceeded to outride the majority of male competitors on the MTB legs. Cycle Obsession was a close 3rd (Raewyn Morrison, Mike Walker, and Phil Costley). Highlights of the weekend? Too many to list, but they included...</div>
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Managing to smash Stage 1, breaking away from the start, and evidently getting Dougal worried that I might be racing individually (best compliment of the weekend).</div>
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An epic and very loose pursuit of Karen on the stage 4 MTB leg - 6km of gravel and steep rutted 4WD with 370m of elevation loss. High adrenaline knocked it out in a white knuckle 10min.</div>
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Seeing Nick H pull out some fantastic run legs. Can't wait to see what he does at Kepler.</div>
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Nic smashing the first MTB for us on day 2 and continuing on to easily win the one-day multisport race.</div>
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Semi-sleepless nights waiting for our tents to collapse in the wind</div>
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Sam Clarks spectacularly entusiastic support crewing. Including beating his athletes out of transition, and full frontal bear hugs of incoming paddlers. Quite the spectacle.</div>
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The evening entertainment featuring great kai, an Opera Singing MC, local kapa haka group, and a rather fearsome Haka on the final night. Certainly memorable.</div>
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Click <a href="http://www.laketolighthouse.co.nz/default.asp?PageID=14248" target="_blank">here</a> for results and the events <a href="http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Genesis-Energy-Lake-Waikaremoana-Challenge/168320346566250" target="_blank">facebook</a> page for plenty of cool pics</div>
Cabinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04502176318313111878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4140635227095614595.post-62768940202954360152012-11-11T21:12:00.001+13:002012-11-22T20:58:14.968+13:00Garage Sale - need some bling wheels?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Due to Nic changing wheel sizes, we have some bling wheelsets that need new homes. If keen flick Nic an e-mail to discuss <a href="mailto:nicleary@orcon.net.nz">nicleary@orcon.net.nz</a> </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tyWNT_FUHbE/UJ9ccpLsbmI/AAAAAAAABK0/v3mp9JNcGGI/s1600/ENVE+26.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tyWNT_FUHbE/UJ9ccpLsbmI/AAAAAAAABK0/v3mp9JNcGGI/s320/ENVE+26.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The ultimate 26" XC wheelset. ENVE Carbon XC rims, laced to DT240 centrelock hubs, with DT bladed spokes. Super stiff, uber light, super strong. Were new in February this year. Minimal use. Excellent condition</div>
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There's a CRF150F moto too come to think of it. Make Nic an offer on that as well. Doesn't get ridden since the SX85 turned up</div>
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Cabinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04502176318313111878noreply@blogger.com3