8/21/08

Welcome Back JOHN ! You look Marvelous!


It's Fabulous!





It Happened Again! by Gregg Senne

It Happened Again - Just Like This

Floyd (anchor): Hello, everybody. We’re back in Durango for another running of the classic Edgemont Hill Climb. Again, Gregg Senne is our lone rider out to tackle the hill one more time. The temperatures are in the low 70’s and it a bit overcast. Should be a near perfect day for a climb.

Lance (color): Yeah, great.

Floyd: Senne’s been at it since the last climb and it will be interesting to see just how much he’s improved since the last climb.

Lance: Riveting.

Floyd: For riders like Senne it’s more about the improvement than the actual elapsed time. It’s about how a little more dedication pays off in a better performance.

Lance: Looser.

Floyd: It’s about how even a recreational rider can do great things on a bike.

Lance: Man, this guy isn’t even a has-been. He’s a never was! Why do we have to cover this crap?

Floyd: Hey, it’s my job. It’s better than pouring coffee at some coffee shop on Main.

Lance: Just barely. I mean, could this be any more lame?

Floyd: Hey, give the guy a chance.

Lance: Oh, all right. Sheesh.

Floyd: That’s better. We’re waiting for the start. There’s the signal and Senne’s out on the course. It’s still the same 784’ and 3.2 miles. Let’s see what he can make of it.

Lance: Wake me when it’s over?

Floyd: The first mile is a 3% grade. It’s a good warm up for the first part of the climb. Senne’s looking pretty good here. He’s up a gear over the last time. Riding a 42/19 combination at about 17 miles per hour. That puts his cadence in the 90’s. Much better than the last time.

Lance: (snore sounds)

Floyd: Will y’ cut it out, already? Can you just do your job? It’s a twenty-minute event!

Lance: If we’re lucky.

Floyd: Whatever. (huff) Senne’s showing some pretty good form here. I think he can break his record if he just keeps it together and doesn’t make any mistakes. He’s at the half mile mark. The grade picks up here slightly, but he’s staying with his gears. I think this shows some promise.

Lance: Okay.

Floyd: We’ve heard though the back channels that Senne’s made some changes to his bike. Apparently, he’s gone to a newer and lighter set of pedals. This could work either way. It could throw him off his stride or give him a psychological boost. So far, it looks like it working for him.

Lance: Can’t buy speed. Only losers think that.

Floyd: I think he knows better. He’s lost weight and put some serious work into his technique. We’re at the first mile mark and Senne’s kept up the pace. He’s shifted down one gear for the start of the climb. He’s carrying the momentum as far as he can before shifting down. Let’s see which gear combination he picks for the first climb. It looks like, yes, it looks like the 42/23. It’s a gear higher than normal, but it looks like he can handle it. It’s looking pretty good here. Let’s hope he’s not overreaching.

Lance: How old is that bike he’s on? Straight top tube, must be ancient.

Floyd: We’re well into the first climb and Senne’s cadence is real strong. He’s showing no signs of letting up.

Lance: Uh, we’re only a few minutes into this. How tired could he be?

Floyd: That’s not the point and could you show a little enthusiasm here, Mr. I-Beat-Cancer?

Lance: Sor-ry!

Floyd: We’re coming to the top of the first climb, now. Senne’s kept up a brisk pace. Let’s see if he uses this next portion as a recovery or if he decides to gear up and go for as much speed as he can. There’s the shift. It’s up one gear and a bit of acceleration to regain the cadence. It looks like he’s putting it on the line here. This could be an all out assault on Edgemont, the likes of which are seldom seen.

Lance: Okay, he’s pushing it some. Let’s not go drama queen here.

Floyd: There’s a slight lip at the top of this flatter section. It’ll be interesting to see how Senne plays this. Will he gear up and sprint like last time or hold on to what he’s accomplished so far. He’s at the lip. There’s the shift and it’s two gears higher! Out of the saddle for some acceleration and he’s set a blazing pace on the last bit before the final climb. I think the weather, his weight loss, and the new equipment have come together. This is what a good day looks like.

Lance: How much further?

Floyd: We’re at about two and a third miles. It’s less than a mile to go. We’re coming up to the make or break point. How he approaches this final ascent will determine whether he carries the momentum over the top or loses it in the last few hundred yards. At two point six miles Senne’s, on the final climb. He’s doing remarkably well here. Even if he manages to just hang on, he’ll beat his best time by about two minutes! And, hang in there he does! He’s out of the saddle and pushing those gears to the limit!

Lance: Are we there yet?

Floyd: When this is over, you and I are gonna have a talk.

Lance: Ooo! Daddy’s angry!

Floyd: Senne’s back on the 25-tooth and in the saddle. This is the final pull before a sprint for the finish. Here the climb is at it’s absolute steepest. Good cadence. No sign of letting up. We’re nearing the crest. Senne’s out of the saddle and shifting up! It looks like a good strong finish! Judges?

Lance: I’m breathless.

Floyd: The elapsed time is 18:20! That’s 2:17 off the previous time! This is a new personal best for Senne.

Lance: Interview time? Sorry, don’t I speak Loser. (takes off headphones and leaves)

Floyd: Well, congratulations on another good showing. When did you know this might be a personal best?

Senne: I thought I might be able to shave some time off the last ride if I felt good into the first climb. I just tried to carry the momentum throughout the ride without over doing it. I didn’t really know how much better this would be.

Floyd: How much help were the new pedals? Do you think they made a big difference?

Senne: These pedals are a lot lighter, but I think it probably had more to do with conditioning, cool weather, and good luck. You can’t buy speed. Well, maybe a little bit!

Floyd: What are your plans? Are you going to keep pushing the envelope on Edgemont?

Senne: Definitely. The more I ride it, the more fun it is.

Floyd: Anything else?

Senne: Yeah, what happened to that Lance guy?

Floyd: Okay! Looks like we’re done here!

The End

8/13/08

Good News from the Rabbi

Click Here to hear the Good News!

9th and Main!

Photo Courtesy of Wade Nelson

8/12/08

Gold Medal Winners last Sunday

Click on the pic and it gets big...

8/11/08

Shonny and Mercy Join Forces

This is Big News! Durango's own Shonny Vanlandingham teams up with David Bruzzese and Mercy Regional Medical Center for Breast Cancer... and it's in Bicycling!

David Bruzzese
Mercy Regional Medical Center
(970) 764-3910

Mercy Jersey Featured in Bicycling Magazine

DURANGO, Colo. — A cycling jersey created by Mercy Regional Medical Center and LUNA Chix professional off-road triathlete and mountain biker Shonny Vanlandingham to raise money for the hospital’s new breast care center is featured in the September issue of Bicycling magazine.
Vanlandingham and Mercy Regional Medical Center jointly designed the limited-edition cycling jersey that is for sale to the public. All proceeds from sales of the jerseys are being donated to Mercy Health Foundation’s $3.4 million “Yes Ma’am” capital campaign, which is funding equipment and construction of a comprehensive breast care center at Mercy Regional Medical Center.

“The fact that this jersey was chosen as one of only 12 to appear in Bicycling magazine in 2008 speaks to how important this issue is to so many people,” said Vanlandingham.

According to David Bruzzese of Mercy Regional Medical Center, who worked with Vanlandingham on the project, the ‘Jersey of the Month’ appearance in Bicycling has resulted in calls from across the country. “I’ve been getting calls and e-mail inquiries from people all over the country who want jerseys. Many of them include a personal note about how they or someone they know has been affected by breast cancer. The stories are quite moving and full of hope.”

The jersey design features Vanlandingham’s personal touches, including her signature and an arm band with a turtle design reminiscent of tattoo styles of Hawaii, where Vanlandingham lives part time. The jersey’s primary color scheme is blue and black. The chest and back of the jersey feature the word “Fight” superimposed in pink letters over a large semi-transparent pink ribbon, representing the fight against breast cancer.
Logos of Vanlandingham’s sponsors that contributed to the fundraising project also appear on the jersey. Contributing sponsors include bicycle manufacturer Orbea USA, performance apparel maker Sugoi, athletic footwear maker AVIA, and Vanlandingham’s LUNA Chix Pro team.

Jerseys may be ordered by contacting David Bruzzese at Mercy Regional Medical Center, (970) 764-3910, or davidbruzzese@mercydurango.org. One of the jerseys is on display at Mountain Bike Specialists, 949 Main Ave., in Durango. $25 of the $60 jersey cost is tax deductible. Quantities and sizes are limited.

Vanlandingham currently competes in national mountain bike races and the XTERRA off-road triathlon series. She is a five-time National Champion with titles in cross country, short track, and marathon disciplines. With 15 NORBA National race wins and three NORBA Series Championship titles, Vanlandingham is the most successful rider in NORBA history, male or female. She splits her time between Durango and Captain Cook, Hawaii.

High resolution images of the jersey and Shonny wearing the jersey are available upon request.
davidbruzzese@mercydurango.org

8/5/08

Just another day at the Church

Some of the congregants made the Photo Op with Pro Cyclist Carmen Small McNellis at the Bridge on Sunday

Three Cups of Tea

Our boy Bob, as many of you know, is the real deal. Follow Bob and you're going places; this is a fabulous opportunity.

From Bob Chaput:

The book Three Cups of Tea is one of the most inspirational books I have ever read. It is currently number one on the New York Times paperback best seller list and has been there for 79 weeks. If you're not familiar with it go to Maria's and get a copy. After reading it, I guarantee that you'll thank me.

This true story is about a mountain climber, Greg Mortenson, who, following a failed attempt to scale K2 became lost. He was rescued by a small village in a very remote area of Pakistan. As a way of repaying the village for saving his life, he agreed to return and build a school for girls. The book chronicles his trails, tribulations and success in building that school (and many more: 64 at this time.) He is someone who turned adversity into a life's work with passion and dignity. He is living proof that one person can make a difference and just maybe change the world.

Last year Fort Lewis College selected Three Cups of Tea for the freshman reading project. As the culmination of the project the college has invited him to speak. The event will take place in the Whalen Gymnasium on September 18, 2008 at 7:00 pm. The event is completely sold out.

I belong to a breakfast group (Tuesdays with Geezers) that wants to do something meaningful to help Greg continue his work. Our goal is to raise
$25,000. We are hosting a breakfast on the morning of September 18 at the Durango Arts Center starting at 7:30 am. Attendance will be limited to 75 people. The minimum donation is $ 250/person. This will be a rare opportunity to meet and talk to Greg as well as help him build more schools. I expect the event to be fully subscribed so make your reservation early.

Send me your check payable to the Committee for the Central Asia Institute or Committee CAI. My address is Bob Chaput, 139 Crazy Horse Drive, Durango, CO 81301. Include your mailing address, telephone number and email address.

If you can't attend and want to help, send me a donation in any amount.

The Central Asian Institute is an IRS 501(c)3 organization so that your contributions will be tax deductible.

If you have questions, contact me at 247-9332 or bob@rchaput.com.

Regards, Bob
Bob@RChaput.com
(970) 247-9332

Carmen

View from the Pro Peleton:

Yep, that was our very own Carmin Small McNellis riding with us Sunday. A multiyear Pro Cyclist for Aaron's Women Pro Team, she is one of 5 on the USA Cycling Pro Team competing world wide. She's off racing again, with the U.S. Pro Women's Championships coming up mid August. Then back to Europe!


Carmen (arrows) racing World Cup in Australia, 2008

Tandemania! by Wade Nelson

From the desk of Wade Nelson:

The pews were filled and the aisles overflowing as tandems led the High Pines Worship procession on Sunday, August 3rd. Celebrating yet another beautiful day in paradise Pastor Larry praised Gosh! when he saw nearly 50 congregants gathered for communion on a day that called praise to the Creator of the Wheel. Pleasant temps, humidity down, blue skies, sunshine, and jerseys in every color of the rainbow.
Gospel Reading:
Matthew 6:28 "And why ye worry about your jersey? Notice the cyclists in my valley. They never labor but instead spin and I tell you that not even Mercx in all his woolen splendor was clothed like one of them.

Tandems captained and stoked by Larry and Jana, Mark and Patti, Brad and Pat, and Dog, err, Doug and Laurie made for some excellent wheelsucking throughout the worship. The tandems made short work of the upper valley and Pine Forest. Co-setting the pace was racer-girl Carmen, AP's daughter, who keeps pace with tandems without breaking a sweat or any heavy breathing.

Jana warming up on the Great White Hope

Pat and Brad, wearing the jerseys to prove it, recently completed their first RAGBRAI, a seven day eating competition held in Iowa that also includes a bicycle ride. Brad claims to have lost weight which anyone who's ever done RAGBRAI knows is impossible. There was some idle chatter of CHP fielding a RAGBRAI team for '09. With the Pastor Larry's ability to perform "one night" wedding ceremonies and "morning after" annulments, CHP seems like a natural for this annual trans- Iowa event.

Wade #2 and the guy from Garrhs's with the Bianchi led a nice line from Trimble out through the burn area which turned into an attack at the slight rise before the upper valley, just like it always does. This slight rise, not even a hill by Colorado standards, brings out the competitive spirit in CHP Congregants for some reason, followed by a scorching pace through the upper valley where oxygen itself is short for some riders.

Following the attack a very nice double line snaked through the upper valley and Pine Forest, led by Larry & Jana on their tandem with Carmen alongside. Another tandem shot past and took some over the shoulder photos which will hopefully turn out. Hint: With a few lead changes riders could enjoy some truly fabulous paceline practice, but when the pace is excessive, most riders are content merely to wheelsuck the Mighty Men of Gosh.

Some discussion has been held of handicapping or "hare and hounding" some of the ride, perhaps the return from Baker's, in an effort to re-group the pack instead of having it spread out over miles. Then again spread out is probably less offensive to drivers and safer for cyclists worn out by climbing Shalona Hill. A sprint to the finish is typically where a lot of accidents occur.


Carmen, AP, Bob, Wade#2, Margaret, and a few others turned around at the bridge, meeting up with local Perry Pahlmeyer who just happened to be on the course and rode along a bit. The rest of the choir presumably did the big sweat up Shalona. Some driver in a Mercedes SL, apparently afraid to let his tires penetrate the double yellow very nearly brought several riders down when a less-patient pickup truck then passed him AND the pack. Considering grabbing ahold of a 2x8 hanging out of the back of the truck and catching a ride to the front of the pack Wade #2 thought better of getting impaled on it in a sudden stop before also getting stuck behind the timid Mercedes driver

Some photos were taken at Bread, some more at Trimble, and yet more at Baker's Bridge for the new Church Webblog. After the ceremonial breaking of the bread Jana brought out several Ziploc bags of a home grown "green herbaceous substance" which, possessing with intent to distribute, she provided to Jane and other riders. Mojito anyone?

The big news of the ride was MIKE didn't flat. Not once!!! Praise be to Gosh!

Worshippers partaking in this super-sized wheelsuck, err, ride, included Rich & Marcel, Richard, Robert, Debra, Carol, Ben, Connie, Jane, Michael, Larry, Jana, Jane, AP, Tom, Wade #'s 1 AND 2, and a new BuRec guy in a green "Ireland" jersey whose name I think is Rob. And probably a few others. John, still on injured reserve, registered voters at the Bread. And may Gosh bless John.

Mark and Patti - Tandem Masters

These guys are not with the Church of the High Pines

They go to a different Church.

Although the guy in the Boure Jersey on the left looks somewhat fam... oh, never mind.

Mountain Bikes not withstanding

Patti and Mark rode Hotel Draw to Kennebec Pass last week. Epic!

The Fabulous Patti - a Rocky Mountain high

Along the way

8/1/08

Welcome O' Mennonites of all denominations

Submit anything to Larry : Goldsteins@yahoo.com

Check here from time to time (the easy way is to right-click on this page and select Add-to-Favorites so it'll be there when you want to return). Or not.

Yep that's Walt starting the Blaze last September, in the Center of Campus. The Fort Lewis College Cycling Team took over #1 in the Country this week. Coincidence?