Sandia Creek Century (Matt's Memorial Today)

Route I ended riding today.

I had been planning on riding down to Matt O'Neil's Memorial in Chula Vista today via the Honey Spring Permanent reverse route. Matt was a long time Randonneur, who lived and rode out of Chula Vista in the mid-2000's. He since moved northward to pursue his educational goals and kept after his riding in earnest there. As noted before, he was killed by a rookie driver during a long 3C Brevet up north earlier in the month. I rode with Matthew several times, but wouldn't classify him as a personal friend.

It was real foggy out and I was felt slow on the bike as I left San Marcos around 0530. I had stopped at the 7-Eleven for a start receipt, just in case I decided to ride the Sandia Creek route instead. For some reason, the fog lifted as I neared the coast. I was on route to the memorial if I went south on Coast Hwy. 101and on another route if I went north. I chose north as I felt a little "off" today and the long ride down in 100 degree temps might make me a little grouchy at the memorial. Also I never did like to "socialize much after those affairs, so the choice was easy.

I did my normal stops at Magee Park and soon I was in mud riding east on the SLR. I felt like it today. Made another stop at the College Ave. Park to get some water before I headed eastward. Must be a brake rub as I stopped at Bonsall McDonald's for an answer. Felt a little stronger as I made the climb around Fallbrook on Green Canyon and Oak Grove. A quick flashback brought me to realize that there was a headwind riding eastward earlier to Bonsall. No wonder I thought the brakes were rubbing and I was dead-meat! Stopped at Carl's Jr in Temecula for the normal break. I had several $1 off coupons for a shake, but opted for a cheaper alternative. Long slow climb up Rancho California this time. It was getting warmer and I couldn't wait for the top. Sandia Creek Road is quite nice riding till the last 14% climb. I think the climb to Fallbrook is harder, for it is longer. I was crawling up that one.

Matt O'Neil at '07 Bear To Honey Spgs Start

I tried a choc sundae with a GU pak to boost me up at Bonsall McDonalds! As I was leaving, a large group started arriving from Olive Hill descent. Black and green jerseys. Decided to go up Lilac Road climb instead of San Luis Rey, just to liven me up some. I also knew that group would be right behind me. I hadn't been up that climb for years now and it was much easier than I had remembered. 3 of the group passed me just before the top. I stopped over at the Shaun Harrison Memorial on the other side.

As I passed Champagne Village I hooked up with 2 riders ahead. As we started the last big climb of the day, the gal took off. I followed her and we started chatting as I was sucking air. Seems the other rider is her ex-husband! Huh! They started in Carlsbad and were riding back via San Marcos. She was middle-aged and a nice looking rider on her new Focus Carbon. I left her at the top waiting for her ex. I made the trip over to Country Club is short order, as there is a new smooth road section on the Nutmeg downhill. Fast! A hot-dog fixie was trying to race so I had to amp it up some and passed him after every red light. He didn't stop for stop signs either! We turned together racing down Mulberry St and as I passed for the last time, his drive-line gave way and he stopped in the road. Too bad for HOTDOGGIE!

Ron Smith & Matt at Alpine deli during Permanent break

Finally made it home around 2:00 PM. The day started out real sluggish, but after some warm-up and a few gel paks laced with ice cream, I was good to race up the hills! Sorry I missed Matt's Memorial, but there was plenty of rando jerseys to go around.

Foggy early, clear later
Hi: 97   Lo: 66
97 miles

-randorides

Ursa Minor (Box Staple-O-Rama)

Box staple from early flat tire!

Didn't find out till late yesterday that the ladies version of the Thursday OFR group was riding north to Dana Point today. Thought I might hook up so I plugged in the Ursa Minor schedule. Rode over to the 7-Eleven start on the SOMA with headlamp and rear blinkies. Arm warmers would come in handy later on.

After the usual Reese Piece (which I didn't eat) receipt, left just after 0530 and headed eastward. That didn't last long as had a flat front tire as I was on a right hand turn. Those are bad, but didn't loose it this time! Just happen to be a lighted driveway where I pulled into to fix things up. Used the arm warmers to lay on the curb to sit on. Finally pulled this big box staple from my tire. I always wonder how those things manage to get in there? Used the cartridge pump for the final fill up...it seemed a few lbs low.Might refill when I get to the Harbor Dr. parking lot (where the gruppo was meeting for the ride north).

As usual, after a flat repair, one is a little skeptical on air pressure and on the look-out for more flats. Same here as I rode toward Solana Beach. Headlamp was good enough as the sun was making the roads lighter by now. No stop at the Solana Donuts as usual. Trying to cut out some of that stuff on the rides now, along with hi-octane colas with the sugar "kick"! Stopped at the Carlsbad 7-Eleven on Oak St. for a ice refill. Next up was the Magee Park bathroom for relief. Rode on Pacific Street for a final stop at the Harbor Dr. bathroom, where Thursday rider Joe was. We chatted and then rode across the street, under the RR tracks for the meet up at 0830.

Group went through main gate, then turned right

Not much going on there, as a few riders were lurking around. One was fixing a flat while the others were waiting for him. Steve Ring rode in and a few others. At 0845 we rolled out for the ride northward through the Camp. Just after the main gate, we took a right and looped around through housing and a big downhill to Stuart Mesa. They called it a "short cut", but in fact it is much longer. I was thinking of riding "easy" today, but after a bit 3 of us broke away and got into the "hammer mode". Regroup at the Las Pulgas gate, where Ben Hassel and Eric Rix were waiting. Nice to see them back in the saddle again after both had Sciatic Nerve surgery and had been off the bikes for months. They were all excited to be riding with the group again and related all their latest stories.

Stopped at the usual San Onofre Campground #11 for a regroup. I left a little early and stopped at the Surf Camp just ahead. Noticed they had a fly trap but it was full of bees dying. No wonder there is a shortage of pollinating bees reported the last few years. Regrouped after Trestles Bike Path, where several went to Carl's Jr and then  return trip back. I hadn't noticed any reported super waves up here from the Pacific hurricane. Much bigger ones were in Carlsbad. Group rode through the neighborhood and to Doheny State Beach. There was deep sand over the path there and Dee and others stopped to walk through. Not me. I grabbed a few gears and powered through. They commented that they were taking the highway when they came back this way! I turned east on the San Juan Path and would meet up in 50 minutes for the return trip.

No big hurricane waves at Doheny State Beach today.

On the return, I did a slo roll through Doheny Park and on to San Clememte, hoping the group would catch up later. The big-ring climb up the hill through town was good and I was catching my stride. I realized that a nice tailwind always makes you feel fast and fit. Stopped at #11, where a bar of soap allowed me to wash up my hands. I figured no use waiting around for the group, so I proceeded south to the Las Pulgas gate. About a mile in, I came across a older rider on a silver Cannondale with one pannier on the back and a roll under his handlebar. We started chatting and he was on his way back to Hemet. Says he was a racer and now was getting into longer rides. Said he was helping his brother build his house there, but also stated he didn't get along with his brother. When he said he had to stop in Oceanside to get his mail, I began to wonder where he actually lived! Gave him a rando card with links to Hemet routes and bid "good riding" . After a stop at the Harbor Drive bathrooms, I was off on the SLR to finish up the route. Felt quite good on the rest of the ride and the climb up Champagne Blvd. A heck of a lot better than the Tuesday ride, with only 1 day rest!

Full sun most of the day
Hi: 90's   Lo: 64
129 miles

-randorides

Lake Henshaw Century (Option)

Gamin Stats from today's ride.

Undecided about the route today, so I'll opt for the Palomar/Henshaw start. When I get to the So. Grade turn, I'll decide then. Same start route. No fog today, so early riding was much easier than last trip. Sort of a hurried start as I loaded up the SOMA for a 10 hour day. Double standard rear blinkies and just a helmet light for the 2 hours of early darkness.

Left around 0400 and rolled eastward on Mission Road. No traffic and all green lights! Should be like this all the time. Arm warmers were rolled up and down several times depending on the terrain. Just a glint of sunrise as I encountered the Rincon Grade downhill. It gets rougher every time I go down this. Maybe with a early start, I'll do Cole Grade and the short run on no-bike lane 76 to start the climb next time? Hard time blowing out the "plugs" in my lungs to clear them out as I was climbing up toward So. Grade. It usually takes me around 45-50 minutes to get up there, and today it was 43 minutes. Decided on the Lake Henshaw route as I passed several Davis Tree Trimmer trucks parked at the So. Grade turn. The guys were out planning their day with a map laid out on the hood.

Nice riding this early as the sun was up and I was riding in the shadows. No wind to speak of here, but today's forecast was for higher wind out here. Felt as though I was riding in mud on the way to the lake. Saw several campers along SLR stream roadside. You can hear the water rustling down the rocks as you ride by minus the road traffic noise this early. Finally made it to Lake Henshaw Store. Rolled up to Mike Berry's green office and had-do there. Packed my arm warmers and ate some almond laced ww crackers and a carry along banana. Only one truck out front with 2 guys chatting about something. Stayed 5 minutes and slo-paced eastward under clear skies and temps in the 70's (Garmin).

Santa Ysabel's favorite Rando stop

Mesa Grande is a tough little climb when it's hot out. Not today, as the temps were great and lots of shady shadows on the way up. Still no clear lungs, so I opted for a drag on the Albuterol Inhaler I always carry. That didn't help much as I wound my way through the trees on the Mesa. I stopped to count the mailboxes at Black Cyn. Road. Of course, some rancher had his truck parked right there with the door open. I nixed that idea and slogged along the mesa. Nice downhill and soon I was headed for Santa Ysabel with no headwind at all! I was flying now at 20 mph!

I like Don's Market. Parked in the shade by the big wooden map outside and picked up some water, a banana and iced my bottles. Sat by the water machine and stretched out a bit with a banana in hand and some more almond crackers. Munched on my Chocolate Power Bar too. Just after 0900, I rolled out. Noticed the Garmin temp was now 87F. Warming up quick.

Lots of "Construction Ahead" signs on the way down the hill. I think they were working on the road shoulder. Be nice if they would add about 2 feet to the bike lane the whole way. Not much wind as I turned onto Old Julian Hwy. and more downhill ahead. Saw a group of 5 riders scattered out as they were climbing up toward Santa Ysabel. Later on, met one older rider with miles of climbing left ahead. After the turn onto 3rd Street, met a Mac Imacseng look alike in a pink kit. He was too proud to wave back. Stopped at the normal Ramona 7-Eleven stop for a GU laced Smores IC Sandwich for 99-cents. Sat outside in the shade while breathing in second-hand tobacco smoke. I was there maybe 10 minutes. Finally left to light traffic through Ramona on Hwy. 67. The after shade Garmin temp was 95F now. Warming up fast for 10 AM.

The turn onto Highland Valley Road brought instant tailwinds and I was soon cruising at 22 mph past the penned buffalo! Not to last, as after the Archie Moore turn brought the normal headwind. I was down in the drops and sucking winds till I hit the rollers. Used the 34T chain-ring now as I never seemed to have the right big ring gear for those 2-12% bumps ahead. Feeling much better now as the last S-curve downhill was car free for a change.

Gamble Lane climb from last rando ride.

Along the HV river bottom I noticed these new 2-foot wood sticks with black plastic cups on them all along the road. I finally stopped and rolled over to check them out. Empty black 2-1/2" PVC with clear caps on the bottom and open on the top! I figured they were to catch insects or something? Noticed my tires were filled with thorns, stickers and goat-heads now. Nice. I lifted my bike to the road and carefully picked them all out, front and rear. Then used my brush on the rotating tire. Clean now and hope I got them all. Did the loop-e-doop over the Cable Bridge and made a stop at the Mule Hill Chevron for ice. Chatted with the young attendant there for a bit. Temps were now in the mid 90's and warming up some more.

Off I went, saving up all day for Gamble Lane. First off, I took the Kit Carson Park Bike Path to the bridge. Gee-whiz! They need to shave off those bumps and resurface that thing soon. After the short El Ku climb, I cut off and took the first road that crossed Centre City Pkwy. Then a right on Old CC Parkway which comes out a bit up the Citracado climb westward. Logged that shortie at 19%. Kept it in the 34T ring as I looked ahead to Gamble Lane. Last time, it was a tough go with camera in hand. This time it was no problem on the 14% grade. Rode the normal route from there via Harmony Grove, Country Club Lane and Barham Drive to the finish.

 Weather was warming up all day with light winds. This ride would rank 2/5, due to the slow feeling start, probably due to no proper stretch out warm-up. Oh well.

Clear skies all day
HI: 102   Lo: 59 (Garmin Temps)
100 miles

Coffee At Peet's Populaire

Garmin Stats from today's Coffee At Peet's route

Left well after 0600 on this last-minute Saturday shortie ride. After looking outside, decided to add the Planet Bike headlight and also the helmet light. SOMA has two rear stationary blinkies. Fog was socked in around San Marcos this morning! Also added arm warmers, as the Twin Oaks weather station said it was 60F out. (That means it's a few degrees cooler.)

Spotty heavy fog leaving the 7-Eleven, and up past the old Escondido Country Club. Cleared up by the time I topped out at Deer Springs Road. I could see the fog bank in the distant valleys from there. Did meet one lonely riders coming up Champagne Blvd. He was too busy to wave back. Noticed the Garmin temp has dropped to 57F. Won't be long before early starts will be cold again. Bummer! Nice 19 mph pace along Camino del Rey through some light fog. No riders there today. Stopped at Bonsall AM/PM for a 30 cent receipt. With one clerk, had to wait in a long line just for that. Iced the bottles and headed out.

Saw 2 riders ahead of me as I entered Hwy. 76 WB. Those boys were rolling fast, but I figured I might catch them before the SLR Bike Path. Kept a steady 22 mph with the help of some downhills and finally caught them just as they turned right on Old River Road! They must have been doing a loop back? SLR has no headwind today as I pulled a racer guy for 2 miles before he passed. Feelin' it a bit as I averaged 19 mph to Oceanside with no buddy help. I was trying to manage it so I wouldn't run out of gas later on the rollers.

Cheap buy for rando "proof of passage"

Stopped at Circle R on Coast Hwy. for a cheapo receipt. Clerk found me one mini-Snicker bar for 33 cents! Took the main drag through town and stopped at Magee Park bathrooms for relief and a bottle refill. Had to ride the grass out of there as the yoga gals were all over the sidewalks. One said the grass was too wet for them!

I finally hooked up with 2 areo-bar guys blasting southward on Coast Hwy. 21-mph pace till we hit a little roller, where the boys died. Switched groups to a threesome with one lady. Seems they were going inland on SR-56 Bike Path same as me, then over to Del Dios and San Elijo. Gal said it was 52 mile loop. Also mentioned one rider came down from Alpine this morning. He was riding up front and only later did I realize it might have been Drew Peterson on his red bike? Our nice group split up at Del Mar, as they took the "neighborhood" loop. I rode through town as always and stopped to check the aero-bar guys alongside the road. Seems one had some rear hub problems. Probably too much power broke something? Didn't see the nice threesome again as I turned onto Carmel Valley Road.

Regular action on the SR-56 Bike Path today. Finally passed 2 like riders wearing Italian jerseys with the Bianchi cycling caps! Guy said it was a "long day". I know what he means. Picked up a banana at the Bikeanywhererepair.com stand as I turned to Circle R on Camino del Sur. Got something for a receipt, iced up the bottles (no cola this trip), chomped a banana and rolled out. I had been feeling good till now with no signs of leg fatigue being 4 hours into the route. 

SR-56 Bike Path was busy today!

This changed as I climbed the rollers to Rancho Bernardo. I was chasing 2 riders up Camino del Sur, till they turned onto Artisian Rd. Moderated the pace through RB, took the Martinal Road shortcut past the Elementary School and a extra climb in there. Not too long and I was slogging the Pedestrian Bridge over Lake Hodges. Not many riders around today. Thought about the Citracado Road turn we took a while back, which leads to the tough climb up Gamble Lane for a longcut. Not today, as I took the Inland Rail Trail back to San Marcos.

Started out slow and picked up the pace all the way to Camino del Sur stop. Legs seem to tire out some on the rollers after that. Didn't break the 5 hour mark riding the SOMA this trip. This was a good workout with the group speed work in the middle. Maybe 2 days off before a Palomar trip?

Fog early AM, clear later
Hi: 96   Lo: 55 (Garmin temps)
82 miles


-randorides 

Ursa Minor Permanent - (iPhone Roadie Special)

Route map of the Ursa Minor Permanent

Time for some annual birthday miles. Prepped the bike up yesterday: charged the batteries, drink mix in the
Camelbak bottles, extra goodies ready and clothes laid out ready to go. Didn't know exactly which route I was taking. I have several options, but usually don't decide until I wake up. Early wake-up means a longer ride, depending on route. I got up at 0300 and decided to do the Ursa Minor route for August.

Rolled into the Mulberry 7-Eleven at 0445 to overcast, warmish humid weather despite the rain shower we had last evening. No clerk around so I went back in the beer cooler and got him. After a Reese Piece for a 20 cent receipt, I clicked on the Garmin "Start" and headed down Mission Road with blinkie blazing and the helmet light leading the way.Rolled down my arm warmers.

 I opted for a alt route over to Del Dios Hwy. this trip. I followed the "Fix My Bike" route and looped over to Barham Dr, Meyers and followed Country Club Lane to Harmony Grove and Citracado. I wanted to see if it was longer than the regular Ursa Minor route to the same place. Seemed to be about the same distance with no traffic. Del Dios around 0500 is almost void of traffic. You need good strong lights to see far ahead in case of falling rocks in the bike lane. The headlamp allows me to spot it far ahead, which was useful today. Slightly more traffic now as I approached Rancho Santa Fe. 90% of the traffic turns there onto Via Del A Via. Pleasant riding the rollers over to Solana Beach, with a solo pit stop. Did see one rider on a race set up who had those neat spinning lights in his front spokes. They really show up in darkness. Stopped at the Solana Donut control for a "Red Velvet" donut with choclate coating. Everything there is 75 cents, so I figured what the heck. I could munch that all the way to Carlsbad.

Bell Helmet, 2 iPhones, Camelbak cap from todays "road goodies"

Cruised up the coast in blah mode. Looped around and picked up a white iPhone in the traffic lane near San Elijo State Beach. Smashed glass, but it was working. No hook-up with a fast group today. Guess it must be too early? Went straight through Oceanside as in-town traffic was nil. When I got to the Harbor Drive turn, cars were backed up waiting for Base entry. I did manage to cut through and made the I-5 turn lane. Not long and I was cruising north amid the noisy highway traffic.

Stopped a the Rest Stop bathroom and had a drink from the fountain. A few minutes and I was turning off Las Pulgas and on the bike route northward. Construction crews were at work on the second rail line early today, and several trucks were using the road. Same gal as before at the tank tunnel, yelling instructions at riders. Don't know what she says, but it's LOUD! Several racers out today and I used them to pace me through the campground. No stop for water break there today, but I did stop at the stop sign by the ranger shack! I opted for El Camino Real route through San Clemente today. Bike way, State Park and San Juan River Trail were all quiet this morning. Stopped at Carl's Jr. for a IC Sandwich. Laced it with GU as I ate my tuna on ww crackers. Filled my bottles there and headed back.

Felt good now as I used the tailwind to rest up. Had a good strong climb up through San Clemente and Trestles Bike Path. Was passing San Onofre Power Plant thinking why there were 200 cars in the lot there. Heard someone yell out my name and quickly looped around and met "Goose" northbound sitting on the railing waiting. We chatted a bit about his ride with the mini-OFR ladies group today. In about 10 minutes several riders showed up and he continued north with them. I hooked up with 2 girl riders who pulled me to the Campground #1 bathroom. I hit the head and watered up there. Noticed a warm, filled regular Camelbak bottle someone left behind. I took the cap and headed south. (I'm way short on Camelbak caps for my large assortment of bottles.) Met 2 touring riders at Las Pulgas Road, deciding which way to go. I mentioned "turn left through the camp" and then decided to use the I-5 route this trip.

Yummy GU!

I-5 bike lane was full of trash. Saw a Bell Helmet and went back to check it out. Looked good, so I straped it to the front of my HB bag. Full time concentration just to miss the lane trash. After the Rest Stop pass-through, it wasn't quite so bad. With the tailwind, it was easy cruising at 20 mph all the way in. Saw a first time green light at Harbor Drive and took it straight across! Jumped the SLR at Cleveland St. and used the tailwind to push me eastward at 17 mph. Minimal traffic on Hwy. 76 late morning and the lane was clear of junk. Stopped at Bonsall McDonald's for a Chocolate Sundae. I added a pak of Carmel GU to juice it up! Filled one bottle with Coke. Ate the rest of my crackers and elevated my feet. In 10 minutes, I was gone.

Wow, nice to have a tailwind to aid your legs along Camino del Rey. Didn't feel all that great on the Hwy. 395 mini-climb so I backed off and paced up Champagne into a headwind and Garmin temps at 100F. Used the in-out of the saddle technique to make it up to the light in 12 minutes. Far removed from the years past! Centre City Pkwy. gets rougher every trip. Headwinds increased westbound on Borden Road. Finished up before 1400 hrs. Rode home and hit the home made recovery drink:
1 scoop Instant Breakfast
1 scoop Carbo-Pro
1-scoop Cliff Recovery
10oz Soy Milk
Lots of Ice
Put in 20 oz bike bottle, shake and enjoy!

Overcast early, sun later
Hi: 90's   Lo 67
124 miles

- randorides

San Marcos Century (How to overload a HB Bag!)

Fire burn area along Old Hwy. 395 is ripe for mudslides

Rainbow 1.24 Permanent. Yep, that's the route today. Was planning to get up early and hit the roads. Woke at 0230, felt tired and decided to continue my siesta! Did awake for real at 0400 and prepped up. Felt a little "blah" as things didn't fall into place easily. By the time I rode the Fuji over to the start it's 0520. Not enough time to properly digest my agave/banana-laced oatmeal and green tea.

Warm out as I plodded northward with only a single headlamp to light the way. Headlamps are nice as they allow you to "flash" the red-light sensors to change before you get there. Staying darker now in the mornings, as daylight hours are shrinking. Not a good sign for those long routes. Riding northward on Hwy. 395 and watching the lines of traffic over on I-5, makes you wonder where everyone is going. Thought I would change up the route some and after Circle R, kept going on Lilac Road over to Hwy. 395. Stopped at the Shaun Harrison Memorial at the intersection and plunged down from Day Lilly Hill. Rode the 76 over to Rice Canyon amid light eastbound traffic. Did the normal paced climb up to Rainbow via Rice Canyon. Hit the bathrooms and then ate some stuff before riding southward. Instead of the usual Live Oak Park/Green Canyon, I decided to change it up and turned south on Old Historic 395 and climbed up Day Lilly Hill. Still a lot of burn-out from recent wildfires along the road, with branches and dirt in the bike lane. A big rain would make this a real mess along the climb. I turned right on Lilac down to Bonsall. Haven't been this way in a while. Met one girl rider really struggling up the climb. Stopped at Bonsall McDonalds. Ice cream machine was broken again, so I opted for a Parfait instead. Laced it with Carmel GU and listened to several loud mouthed businessmen in white shirts and ties.

Fuji with full load on handlebar bag made for tipsy riding!

Soon I was off westbound into a slight headwind. Did the normal SLR thing today. Did stop along the Bike Trail to help a girl trying to adjust her MTB seat. The seatpost bolt was all rusted tight and after a bit I did manage to get it adjusted. Told her she should lube up the bolt/nut to free it up. I also managed to whack my forearm on her seat and got a big bruise there. I got some ice from my bottle and tried to mitigate the swelling as I was riding. Stopped at the Circle K for 33-cent receipt. Another stop at the Carlsbad 7-Eleven for a IC Sandwich. Went over to the strand and stretched out while looking at a lifeguard swim out and warn some paddle board swimmers.

On the ride south, some blue jersey guy on a newish Felt Tri bike went by. I didn't think much of it, till I passed him on every little climb along the way. At least I made him work hard as I pulled off and stopped at Nytro in Encinitas to check out stuff there. Joe M. and I chatted about this stuff I saw on the SDrando blog called "Infinite". They had some there.. 3 different types: Race, Regular and Endurance. Endurance had some protein. Retail for this was $34 for 3 lb canister. Too much for me, even at a discount. Joe said they were trying to get some smaller packets in next week. I picked up 2lbs of Carbo-Pro and a few other things. Joe also threw in a few "promotional items" for me to try. Also indicated my Cygolite 800 search was a real bummer. Seems they weren't friendly at setting up a new dealership. Still need a stronger bar light without using the dyno-hub setup.

Goodies in the bag.

I packed up my stuff in a white Nytro bag and ended up putting it on top of my bar bag. Didn't bring my blue porta-pack this trip. Thought later I should have asked Joe if they had those throwaway paks I had seen before. I figured the whole bag weighed around 7 lbs. After a few miles south, I saw that that didn't work very well with balance. Stopped in Solana Beach and sat down on on a roadside bench. Ate a sandwich and re-arranged the bag. Needed an alternative, quick. Walla! How about I cut the route and do the San Marcos Century instead? Same stops so far! That seemed the best alternative and I started up Lomas Santa Fe. No control out of the saddle, but sitting down was manageable.

Worked my way up to Rancho Santa Fe and then the slog up Del Dios Hwy. past the dam. Weather seemed to be about 5 degrees cooler than yesterday. Made a ice stop at Wendy's and slogged on down Harmony Grove Road toward San Elijo. Wasn't feeling it now. Maybe 50%. Didn't feel tired, just "off". With the extra unbalanced weight on the handlebars, riding always seemed a little tipsy. Finished up in San Marcos around 1400 hrs. Got a Reese's Piece for receipt and rode home. Not one of my super days on the bike, but good enough to finish up OK.

Clear skies all day
Hi: 86    Lo: 67
103 miles

-randorides

  

Bike Path X Two Populaire, Racing TREK Di2

I slightly modified this Bike Path route today.

SD Randonneurs Dudley's 300 Brevet today. I'll do a short route with an early return on this Saturday. Left San Marcos start around 0600. I did the Escondido loop and picked up the regular route there. Stopped on the Nutmeg St. climb to pick up a red "Survival Backpak" with goodies inside. Several bars of survival meals, a couple of ponchos and several tube tents. Heavy load, trying to strap onto the top of my HB bag. One rider riding on Camino Del Rey today. At the Bonsall AM/PM, I pulled out the "goodies" from the backpak and rolled it up. Strapped the other things on top. That worked much better. Reloaded the ice at a packed AM/PM and got a cheapo item for receipt.

Rode solo on the San Luis Rey River Trail. Not a lot of action there, nor headwind yet. Today's weather was clear from the start. Looks like a warm one inland later-on. Massive amounts of riders along the coast hwy. I stopped at Magee Park for the bathrooms and filled my bottle(one) there. Tried to hook up with different riders along the ride south, but they don't stop at red lights like I do. Finally got behind several SDBC riders, who were very passive with their riding today. Possibly because their group had the big head on crash at Fiesta Island on Tuesday night. Swung by Nytro. Nothing going on there, but at least they were open early this Saturday. Followed up with a race-a-pace up through Del Mar.

Picked up a rider in blue as I turned onto the SR-56 Bike Path. He had a dirty TREK using Di2 electronic shifting. He kept clanging between big and small chain-rings and not using the rear cassette much. As soon as I pulled in behind him, he picked up speed as I expected. I wasn't into racing today, so I just hung around. He could climb OK and we diced it out till the last longish climb up to Camino Del Sur (where the Circle K stop is). He took off up the climb and I answered. Part way up he was done & I was feelin' it, so I backed off and chatted with him. Said he was on his way home. There was the normal water coolers and bananas on the Bike Path at the Camino Del Sur Street. I think some Filipino riders set it up. Kudoz to them. Didn't stop there as I needed a receipt from the ice cream sandwich. Sat outside on the curb and didn't stretch my legs. Ate my tuna sandwich and chatted with a couple of local riders.

Picked up a 5 lb. roadside "Survival Kit" on Nutmeg Street today.

Started up the Bike Path toward Poway and my quads tightened up like violin strings! Had to stretch the out on the bike. Climbed up to Sabre Springs and never stopped at the 7-Eleven on Poway Road. Never did like that stop much. Instead I stopped at the bathroom part way up Pomorado Road Rolled over to the Lake Hodges Bike Path and needed ice water bad. Stopped at the Mule Hill Chevron and got a 99 cent fountain Gatorade in my bottle and filled the cup with Mtn. Dew. Some dude there was telling me about his luck with the Lotto Scratchers. Left there and climbed up through South Escondido, over to Quince St. and followed the Inland Rail Trail back to San Marcos. Filled my bottle with ice at the 7-Eleven and got as far as the Fire Station on Mission Rd. when my front tire went low.  I might have been able to ride it home, but decided to change it instead.

I soon pulled into the vacant, shady Joslin Center and picked out the glass. Quick tube change in the shade and I was soon on my way over to the Harley Dealer on Furniture Row against a warm headwind. Zaharah had set up her knitting booth there for some Harley event today till 3:00 PM. Checked out things there and headed home. Didn't even get a free burger or cola! Drank a bottle of recovery mix, one iced Vitamin water and started another one. Shows how dehydrated I was today. Bad move with only one bottle. Last trip one worked good, this time it was 15 degrees warmer with clear skies. Duh.

Clear skies all day
Hi: 90's   Lo: 64]
81 miles

-randorides

Aztec Century, Roadie Crash, BB Failure & Racing Madone 6.2

Aztec Century Route. I did Reverse.

I was dead meat late yesterday (Wed.) and thought I wouldn't ride for sure today (Thursday). You know how it is... got up real early feeling a little rested and figured to give a shortie route a go-go. Ate lite, rubbed up and stretched out good before I left the house. Rode to the 0644 Sprinter headed for Oceanside. I was packed with bikes, about 12 in all. I hung around with mine for no metal to metal contact. Got off at the Couch Street Station and climbed up Canyon St down to Hwy. 76. Played around till 0745, when I started from the Benet St. Chevron. Got a Fiber One Bar for receipt.

Rolled over to the SLR under overcast skies... some call it "marine layer". Bike Path @ Benet St. was open today with no barricades for "Workers Ahead" stuff. Cruised past the O'side Pier and over to Magee Park early. Rode down the coast with Kiwi Stuart and Alan L. Picked up Bruce Tipton at Poinsettia Lane. Arrived for a OFT regroup at Swami' around 0910. They are finally putting a roof on the bathrooms there after 6 months of fencing off the area and stinkie porta potties. Group hung around a while and I finally left early. Group of 12 caught up near Cardiff By The Sea. Had a regroup at the top of Torrey Pines. Porta Potty there was clean as usual. Thursday AM is the usual cleaning day! Water fountain wasn't working. I usually wash things down after a spirited climb up the hill.

Leaving UCSD campus, new guy Cardiff John touched my rear wheel and went down out in the road. While others were attending to him, Tom ask me to check out his front derailleur. Said it was shifting OK earlier today, but now wouldn't go into the big ring. Flipped the bike over and checked things out. Discovered his BB race was separating from the carbon frame. His riding day was over*.

Tom's Bottom Bracket came loose.

* Here is Tom's update on that:
"The bad news from Tom: My bike suffered an irreparable breakdown this morning while riding with the OFR Thursday group to Mt. Soledad.  Briefly, the bottom bracket separated from the carbon fiber frame and started to slide out.  Luckily I stopped to see what was causing a chain ring shifting problem and discovered this serious failure.  I said goodbye to the group of 7 and headed to the Performance Bike shop in Sorrento Valley which meant I had mostly a downhill coast to get there.  They said the problem could not be fixed and suggested I take the bike to a Specialized dealer.  I chose to take it to UTCyclery in La Jolla which was closest to my home in Carmel Valley.

The great news from Tom:  Because I am the original owner of my Specialized Reubaix(sp?), Specialized is giving me a new frame!  It's a silver 2014 X-Works!  They are shipping it from Utah to the bike shop where they will transfer my SRAM components to the new bike.  I should have it by the end of next week."

Cardiff John was soon back on his bike**. I told him to get ice on it quick. He was riding down with the group to LaJolla for a break, then up Mt. Soledad. I parted company with them and hit the Rose Canyon Bike Path on my way to Morena Ave. I don't take the Damon/Mission Bay Drive anymore due to the several heavy merging traffic areas. I soon cruised through Fashion Valley Mall and was heading east when I spotted 2 riders up ahead. Caught one rider at a red light . He soon turned off into the shopping center. The other guy was hammering away. I soon caught his wheel. Silver TREK Madone 6.2 with real deep dish wheels. Probably in his 40's and looked like a racer. Said he was going to the Mesa to finish off the 50 mile ride. He was hitting it hard and I wasn't planning on a high HR day, but what the heck. We were both going up Montezuma Road, so the race was on. I knew he was in distress when he kept shifting around and finally got spinning into his 34T ring. Must have been a tailwind as I was still in my 50T ring up front and feeling good. Kept up the tempo and had at least 100m on him when I turned to McDonald control. I was sucking wind after the extreme heat and high HR. Time for a overpriced choc sundae to get back up to Oceanside. I told the clerk that sundaes cost 80 cents more here and he said that "it's SDSU"!

Hung around sucking water and added some GU Vanilla Gel to the sundae. Filled the bottles with ice and headed down the hill. Didn't need any more races for sure. Stopped at my favorite bike path tree for relief on the headwind way back. Eased a bit up Morena but more headwind on Rose Canyon. Plodded up through UCSD looking for some riders to hook up with for pacing. Nada. The Del Mar climb was less than spectacular to say the least. Thought about stopping at Nytro for some refuel goodies, but passed this trip. No hook ups going up the coast to Oceanside into the normal headwind either. Rolled into the finish for a bottle refill and I was off to climb up Canyon St. and back to the train.

Most riders have no idea how to stack bikes on Sprinter Train

Train was packed again. I had my bike against the seats, where I managed stacking the first bike on mine. I always put the rear derailleur to the inside and hook my helmet on the top of my seat-stays, to form a "barrier" for bikes. First bike up was a hot looking tall blond riding a fixie. She knew what was going on, for sure. Most riders just "throw" their bikes on the stack... pedals in spokes! They were all stacking and yacking. Got off at San Marcos Civic Center, along with the blonde. She took off eastward like she had a date! I limped home with sore legs from inactivity on the train.

Time for recovery drink at home. I mix 2 scoops of Carbo-Pro and 1 scoop of Instant Breakfast in 10 oz on Soy Milk. Add ice and shake the heck out of it. Tastes yummy too. Used to buy Whey Protein, but it seems to cost too much vs other methods. Both seem to work good enough.

Cloudy early with clear skies later
Hi: 86   Lo: 67
96 miles

**Cardiff John Crash Update:

Thanks for checking in. Considering I almost took Kelly with me it could have been worse. Lower back is pretty sore today roadrash on elbows is reassembled and looks sort of better already. Really glad I rode with you the rest of the way thank you all for the concern. Had the tension on my pedals cinched up at Revolution in Solana yesterday, my first time there and it seems to be a great shop. Good luck figuring out your chain problem and I hope Tom has his bike for Thursdays ride I am planning there. Cardiff John

-randorides

Sandia Creek Century

Sandia Creek Century Map

This route is a take-off from the true-tested "Busted In DeLuz" route, with a San Marcos start and taking Sandia Creek Rd. instead of DeLuz Road. However. the option still remains to use DeLuz if you want some variety! Started the route at 0600 on the dot with receipt in hand. Riding the Fuji for this one. Headlamp and one rear Planet Bike blinkie. No arm warmers of late, as the start temps have been well above 60F in the mornings.

Uneventful ride over to LaCosta via Mission Road, La Posta and Rancho Santa Fe. Lite traffic and no other riders in sight. Hit the bathrooms at the trusty Circle K there and got a 39 cent Carmel for a receipt. Put some ice in one bottle and hit the road. One Swami rider blasted by on the way to the coast.  I closed a little on the climb over I-5, but he turned off on Vulcan. Nice pace up the coast to Oceanside, with overcast skies and hi humidity making it feel real hot already. Did the pier route looking for a bike path hook-up. Not to happen today nor was there any tailwind this early. Stopped at Bonsall for a ice refill. They had ice in the machine this trip. If not, crushed ice is better to fill bottles with at AM/PM.

Lite traffic still makes the turn onto Mission Road northward a little tricky at times. Geared down for the climb up to Green Canyon Rd. It's always a nice ride there and better when I spotted a rider up ahead. Just as I approached, he turned off on a side road. I see a lot of riders going that way.. must be for the climbing? 34T up Oak Park and saving up for later. Never did like the climb to Rainbow. Don't seem to have the right gear combo for that anymore. Passed by a tri-rider just after Rainbow. As soon as we hit the 5% section I was closing fast. Caught him just as we started the downhill into Temecula. He was long gone. I wasn't done yet however. I did the sidewalk switch-a-roo and missed all the turn traffic unlike him on Hwy. 79. Pulled into the 7-Eleven instead of Carls Jr. Had a ice cream sandwich and laced it with GU Gel. Sat next to the propane tanks stacked in a rack by the front door. Filled my bottles with ice and rinsed them off under the outside faucet. I later realized I had several $1.00 off coupons for Carl's Jr. shakes! Next time?

Rainbow Cyn. Road. 90F already in mid morning

Really warming up now and it was only 10 o'clock! Big side-wind going up Rancho California. Near the top there was a tailwind. I noticed the Garmin reading 104F now. No wonder I was wet! Turned onto Sandia Creek with lots of car traffic. Geared down for that last 14% climb and took a breather at the top before the fast downhill ahead. Of note: after the last trip they had filled in many of the big road holes and the downhill is only half-ass now. Still rough on some corners and you'll need to hang on tight. Also noticed a "NO TRESPASSING" sign at the roadside parking on the path to the nudie pool. Saw many burn out spots there from a wildfire. Real hot going up the climb to Fallbrook. Didn't stop at the listed Fallbrook JIB, but instead opted for the Bonsall McDonald's instead.

My mistake. No ice cream for sundaes, just for high priced shakes! Nice policy. I didn't get anything there, but opted over to AM/PM instead. Iced up there and soon

New Mtn. Dew refuel. Not bad

was back on the road just after high noon. Always a pleasant ride along Camino del Rey. Held a steady 10 mph up Champagne, a long way from the old days when I could relax and go up at 12mph! Must be the heat and wind? Ya, right. Centre City Pkwy. has really become bumpy and rough of late. Especially since it's downhill and normal speeds are in the 30's. No traffic and no riders this time of day to the finish. Got a 20 cent Reese Piece for proof of passage and a freebee Mtn. Dew Solar Flare in the bottle. I was quickly otta' there and heading home. F
elt good at the end and no Tylenol today for tendons.
What the heck, I'll make it up on Thursday?

Overcast early and clear later
Hi: mid 90's    Lo: 67
98 miles

-randorides

Randonneur Matthew O'Neil Killed by truck

Matt rides along the coast on his recumbent

Our friend and fellow Randonneur Matthew O'Neil was hit by a truck on Saturday evening and was killed while riding the California Central Coast 1000km put on by the Santa Cruz Randonneurs.

Here is the Santa Maria.com article:
 "A 33-year-old cyclist from Chula Vista was killed Saturday evening when he was struck by a pickup pulling a trailer on Foxen Canyon Road, according to a California Highway Patrol report.
The man, who's name was not released, was riding a Bacchetta recumbent bicycle westbound on Foxen Canyon Road east of Dominion Road when he was struck about 7:30 p.m., the CHP report said.
A 16-year-old boy from Santa Maria was pulling a horse trailer westbound on Foxen Canyon Road with a 2007 Chevrolet 3500 dual-wheel pickup when he struck the cyclist, who died at the scene, the report said.

Accident scene on Foxxen Canyon Road

Neither the boy nor his 18-year-old male passenger, whose names also were not released, were injured in the collision.
The CHP said neither drugs nor alcohol were a factor in the collision, but the incident is still under investigation."

-randorides

Coffee At Peet's Populaire

Rando route map for Coffee At Peet's Populaire

Short recovery ride today with Keith Olsen. Keith has a new set of Velocity rims built up to Cris King hubs. Started at 0630 for this lo-key ride. Met some interesting riders along the way, especially a well tanned old gal at the Camino Del Sur Control who was telling tales of her recent European riding adventures. Also some near-races with the local riders out for a Saturday hammer-fest.

Keith wasn't feeling too well this trip, but we finished up anyway.

Early overcast clearing out late morning
Hi: 86   Lo: 65
81 miles

-randorides

University Loop Permanent

University Loop Permanent route map

Rolled out of the house at 0530. Outside temp was 64 degrees with cloudy skies overhead. Wore arm warmers after the Tuesday ride and all the fog. Not today! Got a receipt at the local 7-Eleven and then rode over to the start near CSUSM.

Decided to add some early miles and rode over to Escondido where I picked up Centre City Parkway northbound. Deer Springs intersection red light doesn't trip for bikes so had to use the out of the way light button to cross over. Champagne downhill speeds todays was 32 mph. Decided to take off the arm warmers on Camino Del Rey as it was so nice out. Very few cars along there this morning. Stopped at the Bonsall AM/PM and got a packet of Belvita Breakfast Wafers instead of the usual cheapo candy thing. Filled my bottles with ice at McDonalds next door and hit Hwy. 76 westward.

Lots of usual early traffic along here. I did a turn around and picked up a lime green reflective vest. Have to wash it up and then decide if it can be used for cycling. Packed it nicely on the front bag with my arm warmers. No riders at all to hook up with on the San Luis Rey Bike Path today. Decided to take Coast Highway straight through Oceanside today as I was chasin' the clock. Needed to meet up with the Thursday OFR Gruppo at Magee Park in Carlsbad at 0830 hours.

Arrived at 0825 and they had just left early. I chatted with Dee Wells and her riding friend. They were riding to Swami's in Encinitas too, so we rode together. Picked up a new rider, Bob, along the way south.Bob has a PowerTap rear wheel, so he was ready to race! Also "crazy Doug" joined in for a bit too. Had a regroup at Poinsettia Lane, where another 6 riders joined up for the ride south. Got into Swami's at 0900 sharp.

Found reflective vest like this.

Another group of 10 riders were waiting there. Someone decided that they were riding to Ocean Beach today via LaJolla Shores. That's a nice ride and resulted in a group of around 20 riders total. They hung around for a long time, so I finally just rolled out a little ahead just to stimulate them leaving soon. The main group rides the back way through Del Mar and I usually take the Coast Hwy. Today a Sheriff Deputy had a girl rider pulled over by a stoplight and was writing her up for something. Her nice shiny Bianchi Carbon won't look so good tonight! Rode up Torrey at a locked in 10 mph and got water at the top. We all regrouped there.

A few riders turned around there, leaving a wholesome group for the rest of the route. They turned off at LaJulla Shores Dr. and I went straight down Gillman. Picked up some racer guy on a Colnago carbon and raced with him to the Mission Bay Dr. turn. I went straight and did the route quick link up to Morena Blvd for the ride southward, mission all the Mission Bay traffic. From Friars Road through Fashion Valley there were signs all over: "No Qualcom Parking" Preseason football tonight.. Chargers vs Dallas Cowboys. I'm sure Qualcom Stadium will be sold out. Rode up to SDSU and got my usual mini Hot Fudge Sundae at McDonalds. Price went up! Coated it with GU Vanilla Gel for a real power treat. Filled my bottles with ice and sat around a bit. Fall semester will be starting soon and this place will be packed around noon everyday.

Qualcom Stadium hosting Chargers vs Dallas today.

Easy ride down the hill and into a headwind as I rode west. Morena Blvd had it's normal side wind and it helps push riders along. I took the steeper Scholars Dr. through UCSD Campus. A few riders along this stretch. Big downhill at Torrey, as they are still working on the top end with some center median landscaping. Climbing up Del Mar got passed by a hammerhead! Couldn't hold his wheel this trip. Looked down and my rear tire was half-flat. Looks like it lost 20 lbs of air. Kept going up the coast and stopped at Nytro to check out Joe and fill my tire up a bit. Joe was at some big Cervelo conference. I filled my bottles and caught up with Jim Wisener on the ride north. He rode with the OFR group this morning.

Jimbo cut off at LaCosta Ave as I continued on to Carlsbad control. Iced up there and hit the rollers via the back way to San Marcos. Traffic around San Marcos Blvd. was a little busy, even at this time of day. 

Good ride today with the meet up at Magee Park. Nice to ride with others to break up the time and hear what's going on. The OFR Gruppo has a Grand Fondo in Mammoth ten of them will ride in September. Maybe Sam Thomas from Albany, NY will join in!

Route video at: http://youtu.be/Djf9eohXGws

Typical overcast inland early with clear skies later
Hi: 84   Lo: 65
127 miles with over 6500' elevation gain

-randorides

San Marcos Century

Basic San Marcos Century map

New route today with lots of local climbing. Permanent #2413. After a look-out, added additional rear lights to the SOMA and another headlight. Fog-A-Lot this morning. Not your usual misty fog, but real heavy, wet and lo-visibility type. You could maybe see 100 meters if you had street lighting.

From the start, I felt my way northward on the usual route. Couldn't find the Nutmeg St. turn and rode past it and under I-15. Did a quick U-Turn in the fog and finally found it with the help of my helmet light. Finally climbed out of the fog as I rode north on Centre City Pkwy. Nice and wet now as was everything else around. Good thing I wore my arm warmers. They were covered with a nice sheen of moisture. After crossing Deer Springs Road, I could see fog lined valleys far ahead. It was getting a little lighter out now and visibility was back to near normal.

Very lite traffic today climbing up Circle R and around through the rollers on Lilac Road. This is a nice section to ride in the morning. Always a steep climb up Couser Canyon, but the reward is a nice multi-mile downhill on the other side. Started up Rice Canyon at a moderate 10 mph pace, but eventually geared it back as I was sucking wind on those steep little uphill rollers. Stopped at the Rainbow Market bathroom and wiped things down.

Super heavy fog when I left San Marcos at 0500.

Lots of traffic down Old Highway 395 and on Mission Road to Fallbrook. Must be the Marines heading for duty at Camp Pendleton. Relaxing ride down Oak Grove and Green Canyon. I stopped at Bonsall for a GU gel induced sunday to go with my banana. Iced down my bottles before heading out.

No wind to speak of on Hwy. 76 this morning. Uneventful turn onto the SLR Bike Path westward. Did pick up a racer guy and we diced it out to Oceanside. He was on a Specialized and had been in the gym lifting weights of late ( from looking at his pronounced triceps). Not very talkative as he was having an effort at my pace. So was I! Stopped at the Carlsbad 7-Eleven control for a 20 cent Reece Piece. Picked up a bunch of fast riders going down Coast Hwy. and followed them to Encinitas. Stopped by Nytro for my normal fuel load which I carried on my back in my carry along strap bag.  

Cruised by the Mobile Station control after the first climb up Lomas Santa Fe. This next section to Rancho Santa Fe would be really nice if they would add about 2' to the bike lane (or lack of bike lane). Del Dios Hwy. always has a few riders any time of the week. Warming up some on the climb past the Lake Hodges Dam. Water didn't look so algae green as last trip. Escondido Wendy's is a sort-of necessary control before embarking on the Harmony Grove route to San Elijo.

Dude dusting off scooter at San Elijo Control.

At the San Elijo Chevron, there was this scooter guy who kept putting quarters in the air machine to "dust off" his ride! I watched him a while and even took pic of this event. Got a 99 cent drink and filled my bottles with ice. The route reverses course with a long climb up San Elijo Road to the top where it turns into Twin Oaks and a 50 mph downhill to San Marcos. To avoid the crossover of Hwy. 78, esp. later in the day, a short loop around CSUSM and back to the finish.

This is a tough little route for a century. Lots of climbing at the start and at the end of this one.

Route video at: http://youtu.be/_QFGdl8iCeM

Heavy fog at the start..clearing later with sunny skies
Hi: 83     Lo: 56
103 miles with 7800' of climbing

-randorides

Fix My Bike Popularie: Rain-O-Rama

Hi-end surfer sedan along Coast Hwy.

Time for a new shortie rando route with the camera. I called this one: "Fix My Bike", as it passes many North County Bike Shops. Also I'll submit this one as a reverse from the regular route. Same Fuji bike set up as the last ride. I wiped down the chain only. Left well after 0700 under slightly overcast skies and temps in the high 60's. This route follows the old NCCC route back to San Marcos via Woodland, Barham and through the commercial business section to Country Club Lane. Downhill on Del Dios highway, I stopped to take a few lake shots and put in some new batteries. Took interesting pics through Rancho Santa Fe town to Solana Beach. Only stop open early is the SB donut place, so I hit them up for a Red Velvet with choc icing! Darn good stuff but not that good for you! Stopped to pick up a small package in the bike lane. Turned out to be a pair of Batman glasses.

Filipino Flyers on SLR

Stopped to take pics of any bike shops on the way up the coast. Hundreds of riders out this time of day, most of them either hammering on their TT bikes or beginners out for some exercise. Had a front slo leak by the Carlsbad Power Station, so I rolled over to the beach and set up there. No hurry on this trip, so I changed it out and checked out the hard-bodies at the same time. 1/4" thorn in my worn G'skins.

Proceeded northward taking a few shots. Pulled off behind Buccaneer Beach in the parking lot to oil my chain. It was grinding away a little. Stopped by Pacific Cycles in Oceanside. They were just opening and I didn't see Chuck out front. Rode by the Pier and it was packed with people. There were tents set up in the amphitheater there, so something big going on today. Overcast now as I turned onto the SLR and picked up a group of Filipino riders. One of the riders, "Ron", wasn't feeling it and was cramping up a bit. Offered him some cramp-aid, but he refused. Rode with him to College Ave. park, where they started their ride today.

Batman glasses found on Coast Hwy.

As the SLR passed through the residential area, did a loop back and gave the Batman Glasses to a young boy with his father. Looks like they were canvasing the neighborhood with their bibles. Continued over to Santa Fe St and then eastward on Hwy. 76. Starting to sprinkle now, as I cruised the wide bike lane. Lots of traffic today as the rain picked up all the way to Bonsall. Stopped there amongst a big group of 20 Celo Pacific riders. They had a black support van there and were a little "iffy" on the weather. Rain had stopped by now and most of them left westward on the oil slick roads. Several called it and loaded up their bikes there. Looked like one girl had gone down already, as her whole left side was dirty and smudged up. Went inside and had my power break of HF Sunday with GU gel on top! Yummy! Sat around a bit before loading up with cola and water. Headed out under real humid air.

Celo Pacific support van at Bonsall

Rain had stopped and the roads were drying out as I rode along Camino Del Rey. Really good riding along here with a tailwind. Started the climb up Old Hwy. 395 and more rain started again. Lasted over to the climb up Champagne Blvd. Used the 34T chain-ring up here and cruised up at a whopping 9 mph. Must have been a strong tailwind now as I was over 30 mph going down Centre City Pkwy. to  the Nutmeg turn. Took a few flower pics along here and enjoyed the no-car traffic. Final stop for a receipt/pic at 7-Eleven and I was off to home.

Started out slo and sluggish. Weather was good till the rains came. Just enough rain to gunk up the drive-line with road mud, but not enough to clean it off! RUSA jersey was a total brown out, so I soaked it immediately when I got home. Good thing I oiled the chain with the carry along WD-40 ampule! Clever idea!

Partly Cloudy to rain
Hi: 76    Lo: 64
67 miles

-randorides