That time of year

It's the time of year where I'm enjoying some long rides, some time on the cross bike, and those cool beautiful late summer mornings. I rode down to the UW Memorial Union Terrace the other day before work to enjoy a book, some coffee, and the view of the lake. I have plenty of memories from this classic place - it's been a favorite destination of mine since I moved to Madison in 1997.


Got on the cross bike and did some off road riding three times this week and it was great. It's fun to be riding in the grass again and honing the skills. Saturday was the cyclocross clinic taught by Jonathan Page with myself and some other Planet Bike teammates helping out. We had a great turnout with about 25 riders for the morning beginner session and close to 40 for the afternoon advanced.


Jonathan is a super nice guy and he had some great tips for everyone. We also played several spirited games of foot down which was totally fun. Thanks to Renee, Dave, Bob, Jonathan, and everyone else who helped put it on. Also, I got to spend a quality 8 hours in the chamois, so . . . well, you know how the saying goes ;) Here I am in the new skinsuit.

The weather has been hot here in Wisconsin and I've gotten out and enjoyed some nice long rides. The riding west of Madison is beautiful with all of the hills and everything is still really green although that's soon to change in the next couple of weeks. But it feels good just to be out enjoying the ride.

The Madison Ironman is just 6 days away and Dave is making his final preparations. A bunch of family will be in town for the event and we're all looking forward to Sunday. It'll be a bright and early morning starting at 4am with just over 2000 folks hitting the lake at 7. If all goes as planned Dave should cross the line around 5:30. I'll be sure to document the day in photos :)

Hope everyone had a good 3 day weekend!