Raid Corsica – Final Thoughts
Raid Corsica is over for Steve, Michael and me. It’s been an unparalleled challenge of body and mind. We rode over 600 miles and climbed 51,000 feet in six days. We struggled with aching muscles and mental fatigue. Over and over we kept asking ourselves why? Why are we putting ourselves through this anguish? Perhaps we won’t know the reason for a long time. But, we do know that in six days, we saw beautiful beaches, snowcapped mountains, magnificent gorges, pine tree forests, unbelievable rock formations, and met new cycling friends.
While there were only 19 of us in Raid Corsica, we learned that cycling is a universal language. As cyclists, we are drawn by passion and love to a sport that for most humans is completely out of the norm. Why would any person sit on a bike for 6-8 hours, day after day, and then want to talk about it over beers for hours after? Perhaps it’s the collective pain or the feeling of being part of a larger, perhaps global cycling community. Regardless, one of my lessons from Raid Corsica is that I can stretch beyond the limits of what I dreamed was possible.
We did it!
Saturday, May 17, 2014
Raid Corsica – Final Stage
The final stage of Raid Corsica brought us from the village of Aleria back to Bastia, our starting point six days ago. For some reason, the French Cycling Federation decided that even though this is the last stage, it would include the hardest ascents. We climbed the Col di San Gavono (697m), the Col d’Arcarotta (819m), and just to top it off, the Col di St Agostino. The Col di St Agostino ia only about 15km long, but at many points, the grade tops 20%. We’re talking out of the saddle, pounding the pedals. Kind of like the steepest pasts of Santa Rosa Creek, but for a couple of miles.
In addition to the climbing, the final stage brought its share of unique challenges. Like wild French dogs that bit two riders, mountain goats in the road, pigs and piglets wondering about, rough roads with gravel and sand, and narrow bridges which on one I almost did a header with a Renault, finding our way back to the hotel through heavy Bastia traffic, etc. Ya, just an ordinary day on Raid Corsica.
The best part is not that it’s over, but, that we completed the challenge with no accidents. Well sort of…Mike’s bike was hit twice, but both times he was not on it. He’ll have to explain later.
Tomorrow we head back to California. We’ll be glad to be back in the States, but, a little piece of each of us will remain in Corsica.
Next and final posting – Raid Corsica; closing thoughts.
The final stage of Raid Corsica brought us from the village of Aleria back to Bastia, our starting point six days ago. For some reason, the French Cycling Federation decided that even though this is the last stage, it would include the hardest ascents. We climbed the Col di San Gavono (697m), the Col d’Arcarotta (819m), and just to top it off, the Col di St Agostino. The Col di St Agostino ia only about 15km long, but at many points, the grade tops 20%. We’re talking out of the saddle, pounding the pedals. Kind of like the steepest pasts of Santa Rosa Creek, but for a couple of miles.
In addition to the climbing, the final stage brought its share of unique challenges. Like wild French dogs that bit two riders, mountain goats in the road, pigs and piglets wondering about, rough roads with gravel and sand, and narrow bridges which on one I almost did a header with a Renault, finding our way back to the hotel through heavy Bastia traffic, etc. Ya, just an ordinary day on Raid Corsica.
The best part is not that it’s over, but, that we completed the challenge with no accidents. Well sort of…Mike’s bike was hit twice, but both times he was not on it. He’ll have to explain later.
Tomorrow we head back to California. We’ll be glad to be back in the States, but, a little piece of each of us will remain in Corsica.
Next and final posting – Raid Corsica; closing thoughts.
Friday, May 16, 2014
Raid Corsica – Stage Five: The Queen Stage
Life on the bike has moved into a regular pattern. We get up, eat as much as possible, ride for almost the entire day, climb between 8,000 and 9,000 feet, arrive at stage end, have a beer (or two), stuff as much food into your body as possible at dinner, find a clean kit for the next day, and then go to bed. It’s an interesting existence. It’s both simple, yet very complex. So many things to consider. Just trying to replace calories is a chore. We’re burning between 4,500 – 6,000 calories a day. We try to make it up in beer and wine, but sometimes we have to stuff down solid food like pasta, rice, potatoes, and salad as well.
Today was no exception. We rose about 6:00 AM, dressed, repacked our suit cases, eat breakfast (or tried to) and clipped in about 7:35. We made a right hand turn out of the hotel and immediately started the first climb. It was about a 24% grade, but it did end before we literally tipped over.
Today’s stage had four named cols. The Col Bivio Tavogna (960m), the Col de Illarate (991m), the Col de Bavella (1,218m) and the Col de Larone (608m). While they are all tough, there is an interesting connection between the last two. After you ascend the Col de Bavella and then descend about 15km, you immediately start climbing the Col de Larone. These two were part of last year’s Tour de France.
When we got to the top of the Col de Larone, it was again very cold. So has become the pattern, we again bundled up and started the decent. From the top of the mountain back to the sea is almost a 30km decent. Along the way down, we almost it a bull, a piglet, numerous potholes, the occasional hiker, and sand and gravel. The temperature went from about 50 degrees to 75+ on the way down. Once we hit the bottom, we turned left and made the 44km race to the hotel. Despite being completely totally exhausted, we did a little pace lining and made it.
Yes, today was the Queen Stage. From my perspective it was the toughest with the most challenging climbing and almost the longest. We did it, and are somewhat looking forward to the final stage tomorrow.
Tomorrow's stage can be found at: http://www.strava.com/routes/321983
Life on the bike has moved into a regular pattern. We get up, eat as much as possible, ride for almost the entire day, climb between 8,000 and 9,000 feet, arrive at stage end, have a beer (or two), stuff as much food into your body as possible at dinner, find a clean kit for the next day, and then go to bed. It’s an interesting existence. It’s both simple, yet very complex. So many things to consider. Just trying to replace calories is a chore. We’re burning between 4,500 – 6,000 calories a day. We try to make it up in beer and wine, but sometimes we have to stuff down solid food like pasta, rice, potatoes, and salad as well.
Today was no exception. We rose about 6:00 AM, dressed, repacked our suit cases, eat breakfast (or tried to) and clipped in about 7:35. We made a right hand turn out of the hotel and immediately started the first climb. It was about a 24% grade, but it did end before we literally tipped over.
Today’s stage had four named cols. The Col Bivio Tavogna (960m), the Col de Illarate (991m), the Col de Bavella (1,218m) and the Col de Larone (608m). While they are all tough, there is an interesting connection between the last two. After you ascend the Col de Bavella and then descend about 15km, you immediately start climbing the Col de Larone. These two were part of last year’s Tour de France.
When we got to the top of the Col de Larone, it was again very cold. So has become the pattern, we again bundled up and started the decent. From the top of the mountain back to the sea is almost a 30km decent. Along the way down, we almost it a bull, a piglet, numerous potholes, the occasional hiker, and sand and gravel. The temperature went from about 50 degrees to 75+ on the way down. Once we hit the bottom, we turned left and made the 44km race to the hotel. Despite being completely totally exhausted, we did a little pace lining and made it.
Yes, today was the Queen Stage. From my perspective it was the toughest with the most challenging climbing and almost the longest. We did it, and are somewhat looking forward to the final stage tomorrow.
Tomorrow's stage can be found at: http://www.strava.com/routes/321983
Thursday, May 15, 2014
Raid Corsica – Stage Four
Today’s stage had only two named Cols; the Col de St. Georges (757m) and the Col de Coti-Chiavari (486m). Yet, we still managed to climb over 8,000 feet. No wonder we feel so tired. Conversation among the riders has gone in the last four days from, “isn’t the scenery beautiful to, how are we going to survive?” At this point, almost everything hurts.
Today was billed as the “easiest” day of Raid Corsica. And, in a sense, it was. We had a few long, semi-flat sections and the Cols were not as steep as those before and those to come. Lunch was taken at the top of the Col de Coti-Chiavari at an outdoor café with an incredible view of the sea below.
To try and capture a full day’s day ride is pretty hard. Today was no exception. We saw both white and black sand beaches, climbed into pine forests and then to barren mountain tops. Corsica is a beautiful island. Sometimes, however, it the little things that make a day on the bike exceptional. Like the old man standing outside a café who cheers us on as we pass. Or the women walking her dog that wishes us bonjour. Yes, we are sore, tired and ready for it to be over. But, what’s better than a day on a bike in France?
Well, maybe tonight’s dinner of steak, roasted potatoes, tons of French bread, and amble good French wine.
Tomorrow is the Queen’s stage of the Raid. At this point, it’s almost too much to think about.
Today’s stage had only two named Cols; the Col de St. Georges (757m) and the Col de Coti-Chiavari (486m). Yet, we still managed to climb over 8,000 feet. No wonder we feel so tired. Conversation among the riders has gone in the last four days from, “isn’t the scenery beautiful to, how are we going to survive?” At this point, almost everything hurts.
Today was billed as the “easiest” day of Raid Corsica. And, in a sense, it was. We had a few long, semi-flat sections and the Cols were not as steep as those before and those to come. Lunch was taken at the top of the Col de Coti-Chiavari at an outdoor café with an incredible view of the sea below.
To try and capture a full day’s day ride is pretty hard. Today was no exception. We saw both white and black sand beaches, climbed into pine forests and then to barren mountain tops. Corsica is a beautiful island. Sometimes, however, it the little things that make a day on the bike exceptional. Like the old man standing outside a café who cheers us on as we pass. Or the women walking her dog that wishes us bonjour. Yes, we are sore, tired and ready for it to be over. But, what’s better than a day on a bike in France?
Well, maybe tonight’s dinner of steak, roasted potatoes, tons of French bread, and amble good French wine.
Tomorrow is the Queen’s stage of the Raid. At this point, it’s almost too much to think about.
Wednesday, May 14, 2014
Raid Corsica – Stage Three
Tonight’s blog will be brief and please excuse even more mistakes in grammar, spelling, sentence structure, the Queen’s English. It’s been a day of extremes.
We woke to bright, sunny skies, but it was a bit cool. Right from the start, we had a 15+ km decent straight down a magnificent gorge. A little sketchy with the tour buses, but we maintained our line and survived. Ahead of us lay the Col d’ Ominanda (654m), the Col de Bellagranajo (723m), the Col de Sorba (1,311m), the Col de Verde (1,289m), and to top it off, the Col de Granaccia (865m). All totaled, over 9,000+ feet of climbing. Yep, our legs, shoulders, and bums are pretty sore.
The Col de Verde provided us with a real test of our reason for being cyclists. Not only is it long and grinding on a normal day, but today, mother nature decided to have a little fun with us. As we were ascending, the clouds began to gather at the top. Dark and foreboding, they swirled around the mountain top. As we finally reached the summit, it began to rain. Heavy droplets fell as we rushed to put on more layers, rain jackets and heavy gloves. As we started the 20km decent, the skies opened and it poured. It was just rain at first, but then we began to hear a pinging sound off our helmets and titanium bikes. It was hail. Soft at first, but then it really started. It was painful as the hail bounced off our legs and arms. With more miles to go, we continued, as the ice actually gathered on our gloves and arms. We made it to the village of Zicavo, where we found a café, ordered coffee and coco and hoped it would pass. It didn’t, so we layered up even more and continued. Finally it stopped, but the Col de Granaccia was still ahead. The sun came out, warmed us a bit, and we finished in grand - but tired fashion.
The hotel was a welcome sight. The group gathered for a couple of beers and then we enjoyed a dinner of roasted wild boar and pasta, was great and the day, and we, were done.
Tonight’s blog will be brief and please excuse even more mistakes in grammar, spelling, sentence structure, the Queen’s English. It’s been a day of extremes.
We woke to bright, sunny skies, but it was a bit cool. Right from the start, we had a 15+ km decent straight down a magnificent gorge. A little sketchy with the tour buses, but we maintained our line and survived. Ahead of us lay the Col d’ Ominanda (654m), the Col de Bellagranajo (723m), the Col de Sorba (1,311m), the Col de Verde (1,289m), and to top it off, the Col de Granaccia (865m). All totaled, over 9,000+ feet of climbing. Yep, our legs, shoulders, and bums are pretty sore.
The Col de Verde provided us with a real test of our reason for being cyclists. Not only is it long and grinding on a normal day, but today, mother nature decided to have a little fun with us. As we were ascending, the clouds began to gather at the top. Dark and foreboding, they swirled around the mountain top. As we finally reached the summit, it began to rain. Heavy droplets fell as we rushed to put on more layers, rain jackets and heavy gloves. As we started the 20km decent, the skies opened and it poured. It was just rain at first, but then we began to hear a pinging sound off our helmets and titanium bikes. It was hail. Soft at first, but then it really started. It was painful as the hail bounced off our legs and arms. With more miles to go, we continued, as the ice actually gathered on our gloves and arms. We made it to the village of Zicavo, where we found a café, ordered coffee and coco and hoped it would pass. It didn’t, so we layered up even more and continued. Finally it stopped, but the Col de Granaccia was still ahead. The sun came out, warmed us a bit, and we finished in grand - but tired fashion.
The hotel was a welcome sight. The group gathered for a couple of beers and then we enjoyed a dinner of roasted wild boar and pasta, was great and the day, and we, were done.
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
Raid Corsica – Stage Two
The day started with windy, but sunny conditions. Michael started early in order to get a few pictures and have a coffee on the way. Steve and I started about 8:00 heading south along a magnificent coast road. We were warned ahead of time that the road was a bit rough and the organization had authorized and an alternative route. But, deciding on beauty vs practically, we went with the coast road. Rough was an understatement. The road turned to almost gravel in places with lose rocks, sand, and potholes the size of Volkswagens. And this went on for 20+km.
What made the coast road a little easier is that we linked-up with the “British peloton” segment of our group. It’s a cycling club from England, whose members train 4-6 times a week. Very strong riders who always ride in a double pace line – complete with a whistle when it’s time to rotate. They did permit us to follow at a close enough distance where we got a pretty good draft. Let’s see, they do the work and we get to draft. What’s not to like about that?
Lunch was in the village of Piana which is at the top of the Col de la Croix. What is remarkable about the climb is that this part of Corsica is noted for its red rocks. As we ascended from the sea, one can see the red rocks above and below. Near the top, the scene was almost from Mars. Red rock carved by millions of years of wind and rain into formations unlike any we had ever seen before. Totally, “other worldly”. To date, this is the highlight of what we have seen.
When we arrive in Piana, we were hot and sweaty. As we were ordering our food, the clouds moved in and the temperature began to drop. By the time the food arrived, we were shivering. And we still had to descend. This would not be the first time of the day.
The second half of the day comprised of one objective – climbing and descending the Col de Vergio. This would be our third major climb of the day. We had already climbed the Col de Palmarella (408m) and the Col de la Croix (408m). The Col de Vergio (1,477m) is approximately 35 km long. It’s not that steep, but it never ends, never! The views we saw on the first half were spectacular, all I saw the second half was the road in front of me.
When we reached the top, it was freezing and windy. Snow was in the near distance and the fog was moving in around the mountains. We quickly put on more layers from the sag van and started the decent. Most of the lads describe the decent as brutal. I can not remember, and I’m not sure if Steve or Michael can either, a colder decent down a mountain. The decent was about 15 miles.
We reached the hotel in Calacuccia and tried to warm up. Extra blankets were brought out and bath tubs were filled with hot water. An hour or so later, local beer helped thaw the bones. And, mounds of salad, pasta with meat sauce, bread, and wine helped a little too.
All in all, it was a great day that will go down in our personal cycling lore forever.
Up Next – Stage Three http://www.strava.com/routes/244960
The day started with windy, but sunny conditions. Michael started early in order to get a few pictures and have a coffee on the way. Steve and I started about 8:00 heading south along a magnificent coast road. We were warned ahead of time that the road was a bit rough and the organization had authorized and an alternative route. But, deciding on beauty vs practically, we went with the coast road. Rough was an understatement. The road turned to almost gravel in places with lose rocks, sand, and potholes the size of Volkswagens. And this went on for 20+km.
What made the coast road a little easier is that we linked-up with the “British peloton” segment of our group. It’s a cycling club from England, whose members train 4-6 times a week. Very strong riders who always ride in a double pace line – complete with a whistle when it’s time to rotate. They did permit us to follow at a close enough distance where we got a pretty good draft. Let’s see, they do the work and we get to draft. What’s not to like about that?
Lunch was in the village of Piana which is at the top of the Col de la Croix. What is remarkable about the climb is that this part of Corsica is noted for its red rocks. As we ascended from the sea, one can see the red rocks above and below. Near the top, the scene was almost from Mars. Red rock carved by millions of years of wind and rain into formations unlike any we had ever seen before. Totally, “other worldly”. To date, this is the highlight of what we have seen.
When we arrive in Piana, we were hot and sweaty. As we were ordering our food, the clouds moved in and the temperature began to drop. By the time the food arrived, we were shivering. And we still had to descend. This would not be the first time of the day.
The second half of the day comprised of one objective – climbing and descending the Col de Vergio. This would be our third major climb of the day. We had already climbed the Col de Palmarella (408m) and the Col de la Croix (408m). The Col de Vergio (1,477m) is approximately 35 km long. It’s not that steep, but it never ends, never! The views we saw on the first half were spectacular, all I saw the second half was the road in front of me.
When we reached the top, it was freezing and windy. Snow was in the near distance and the fog was moving in around the mountains. We quickly put on more layers from the sag van and started the decent. Most of the lads describe the decent as brutal. I can not remember, and I’m not sure if Steve or Michael can either, a colder decent down a mountain. The decent was about 15 miles.
We reached the hotel in Calacuccia and tried to warm up. Extra blankets were brought out and bath tubs were filled with hot water. An hour or so later, local beer helped thaw the bones. And, mounds of salad, pasta with meat sauce, bread, and wine helped a little too.
All in all, it was a great day that will go down in our personal cycling lore forever.
Up Next – Stage Three http://www.strava.com/routes/244960
Monday, May 12, 2014
Raid Corsica Stage One
To fully understand today’s stage, we have to start last night. Before dinner, the 19 cyclist participating were gathered for an orientation session. The normal rules of cycling were discussed followed by a question and answer session. The first and only question asked was, “we understand there was a crash last week, what can you tell us?” Without going into details, all I’ll say is that when the answer was given, the room went quite. No gallows humor, no jokes, no nothing. On that not so happy note, we left for dinner.
Today’s ride was beyond comparison. Michael, Steve and I have ridden in some very sketchy conditions, but, nothing compared to today. Yes, the views of the sea were spectacular, red poppies were everywhere, goats gathered on the roads, sheep rang their bells, and cols were high and challenging.
The day was spent either ascending from or descending to, the sea. But, the real issue was the wind. Not just any wind, but, a times, gale force wind that wrapped around the island like smoke from a bon fire. No matter which way we turned it was there. Either beating us in the face, forcing us across the road, or making us pedal on even the steepest descents. It was unrelenting for the hours and hours it took us to complete the stage. As the Brits with us said, “it beat us naked.”
Normal humans would have called it quits about 30 minutes into the ride. But not us, we’re cyclist. We love what we do and we love the challenge. Although, even we at times were saying, “I want off this bike.”
Up next, stage two.
http://www.strava.com/routes/244950
To fully understand today’s stage, we have to start last night. Before dinner, the 19 cyclist participating were gathered for an orientation session. The normal rules of cycling were discussed followed by a question and answer session. The first and only question asked was, “we understand there was a crash last week, what can you tell us?” Without going into details, all I’ll say is that when the answer was given, the room went quite. No gallows humor, no jokes, no nothing. On that not so happy note, we left for dinner.
Today’s ride was beyond comparison. Michael, Steve and I have ridden in some very sketchy conditions, but, nothing compared to today. Yes, the views of the sea were spectacular, red poppies were everywhere, goats gathered on the roads, sheep rang their bells, and cols were high and challenging.
The day was spent either ascending from or descending to, the sea. But, the real issue was the wind. Not just any wind, but, a times, gale force wind that wrapped around the island like smoke from a bon fire. No matter which way we turned it was there. Either beating us in the face, forcing us across the road, or making us pedal on even the steepest descents. It was unrelenting for the hours and hours it took us to complete the stage. As the Brits with us said, “it beat us naked.”
Normal humans would have called it quits about 30 minutes into the ride. But not us, we’re cyclist. We love what we do and we love the challenge. Although, even we at times were saying, “I want off this bike.”
Up next, stage two.
http://www.strava.com/routes/244950
Sunday, May 11, 2014
The Prolog
It’s almost here. In about 12 hours, we’ll be starting the Raid Corsica. Months of preparation on and off the bike are finally going to be put to the test. Are we ready? I believe we are.
We awoke this Sunday morning to church bells, fresh ocean breezes and quite streets. All signs of last night’s protest had been washed from the city streets. What we learned is that this type of protest is not only pretty common, but very French in design. The protestors call the police and let them know where and when the protest will take place. This way, the authorities can set-up the proper barricades and have enough tear gas. How civilized.
Today was spent mostly in preparation. Our bags finally arrived and we repacked for the days ahead. One bag to carry most of our stuff from one hotel to the next, and another that will stay with us as we make our way around Corsica. Steve and I were “introduced” to our rental bikes and Michael assembled his Dean. We made the necessary adjustments to the titanium rentals including putting on our saddles and pedals. Just to make sure everything was right, we did Prolog Ride heading north out of Bastia along the coast road. If this is what the rest of Corsica is like, we are in for a treat.
Happy Mother’s Day!
Tomorrow is stage one. Here is a Strava map. http://www.strava.com/routes/239583
It’s almost here. In about 12 hours, we’ll be starting the Raid Corsica. Months of preparation on and off the bike are finally going to be put to the test. Are we ready? I believe we are.
We awoke this Sunday morning to church bells, fresh ocean breezes and quite streets. All signs of last night’s protest had been washed from the city streets. What we learned is that this type of protest is not only pretty common, but very French in design. The protestors call the police and let them know where and when the protest will take place. This way, the authorities can set-up the proper barricades and have enough tear gas. How civilized.
Today was spent mostly in preparation. Our bags finally arrived and we repacked for the days ahead. One bag to carry most of our stuff from one hotel to the next, and another that will stay with us as we make our way around Corsica. Steve and I were “introduced” to our rental bikes and Michael assembled his Dean. We made the necessary adjustments to the titanium rentals including putting on our saddles and pedals. Just to make sure everything was right, we did Prolog Ride heading north out of Bastia along the coast road. If this is what the rest of Corsica is like, we are in for a treat.
Happy Mother’s Day!
Tomorrow is stage one. Here is a Strava map. http://www.strava.com/routes/239583
Saturday, May 10, 2014
Welcome to Corsica aka What a Day
REVISED
There are traveling days and then there are day when all you do is travel. The last ones fall into the later category. Let’s just say Steve, Michael and I arrived safely and are checked into the hotel. We found a nice restaurant right on the old harbor where wine and food was consumed to convince our bodies it’s evening and not the middle of the day. Getting to this point has been challenging.
The day started not as planned. Some of the high lights include our bags being put on the wrong plane at the jet center in SLO, (fortunately we noticed it before our plane left), an hour + delay in taking off from SFO causing us to literally run through the Frankfurt airport to make our connection to Bastia and no bags when we arrived.
Just when we thought it was enough for one day, on the way to dinner we almost walked into a mini riot/protest in the town square being staged by Corsican separatists? Really, Corsican separatists? Yep, complete with angry youths dressed all in back, wearing gas masks, concussion grenades echoing off the quaint streets of Bastia and the smell of tear gas mixing with gentle sea breezes.
Yes, it’s been quite a day. Maybe tomorrow we’ll actually get to do a little of what we came here for – to ride. It's almost prologe time for Raid Corsica.
Up Next - The Prolog
REVISED
There are traveling days and then there are day when all you do is travel. The last ones fall into the later category. Let’s just say Steve, Michael and I arrived safely and are checked into the hotel. We found a nice restaurant right on the old harbor where wine and food was consumed to convince our bodies it’s evening and not the middle of the day. Getting to this point has been challenging.
The day started not as planned. Some of the high lights include our bags being put on the wrong plane at the jet center in SLO, (fortunately we noticed it before our plane left), an hour + delay in taking off from SFO causing us to literally run through the Frankfurt airport to make our connection to Bastia and no bags when we arrived.
Just when we thought it was enough for one day, on the way to dinner we almost walked into a mini riot/protest in the town square being staged by Corsican separatists? Really, Corsican separatists? Yep, complete with angry youths dressed all in back, wearing gas masks, concussion grenades echoing off the quaint streets of Bastia and the smell of tear gas mixing with gentle sea breezes.
Yes, it’s been quite a day. Maybe tomorrow we’ll actually get to do a little of what we came here for – to ride. It's almost prologe time for Raid Corsica.
Up Next - The Prolog
Friday, May 9, 2014
IT’S THE FINAL COUNTDOWN
I woke up very early this morning in a panic which almost instantly turned into a cold sweat. Causing my distress was the realization that I forgot to pack my saddle. Yes, probably THE most important thing to pack and it was still on my bike in the garage. If I could so easily forget my saddle, what else did I fail to throw in the duffel bag? So then wide awake, I went through my mental list of what’s packed and what’s not. At least I knew my Garmin was in there – or was it? So much for getting another hour of sleep. I could not rest until the saddle made its way off my BMC and into my duffel bag.
It’s Friday and the final countdown is here. In just a few hours, Steve, Michael and I will be boarding a plane for the first of three flights which will eventually land us in Bastia, France at 4:00 PM Saturday afternoon. Between then and now there is one more taper ride (mostly for coffee), final preparations at home, getting to the airport, checking-in, dealing with layovers in San Francisco and Frankfurt, claiming our bags in Bastia, finding a taxi to the start hotel, etc. Oh the joys of travel.
Rosey, however, always tells me to make air travel part of the adventure. Good advice. Softening some of the stress of this trip is the knowledge that we can use the United Club at SFO before boarding and the Lufthansa Club in Frankfurt if we have time. Also, I have a bundle of in-flight free drink tickets. I don’t know about Steve and Michael, but I plan to take full advantage of these and hopefully get some sleep on the plane. Bastia is a long way away.
It’s the final countdown, so let the adventure begin.
UP NEXT – Welcome to Corsica
I woke up very early this morning in a panic which almost instantly turned into a cold sweat. Causing my distress was the realization that I forgot to pack my saddle. Yes, probably THE most important thing to pack and it was still on my bike in the garage. If I could so easily forget my saddle, what else did I fail to throw in the duffel bag? So then wide awake, I went through my mental list of what’s packed and what’s not. At least I knew my Garmin was in there – or was it? So much for getting another hour of sleep. I could not rest until the saddle made its way off my BMC and into my duffel bag.
It’s Friday and the final countdown is here. In just a few hours, Steve, Michael and I will be boarding a plane for the first of three flights which will eventually land us in Bastia, France at 4:00 PM Saturday afternoon. Between then and now there is one more taper ride (mostly for coffee), final preparations at home, getting to the airport, checking-in, dealing with layovers in San Francisco and Frankfurt, claiming our bags in Bastia, finding a taxi to the start hotel, etc. Oh the joys of travel.
Rosey, however, always tells me to make air travel part of the adventure. Good advice. Softening some of the stress of this trip is the knowledge that we can use the United Club at SFO before boarding and the Lufthansa Club in Frankfurt if we have time. Also, I have a bundle of in-flight free drink tickets. I don’t know about Steve and Michael, but I plan to take full advantage of these and hopefully get some sleep on the plane. Bastia is a long way away.
It’s the final countdown, so let the adventure begin.
UP NEXT – Welcome to Corsica
Wednesday, May 7, 2014
Does All This Stuff Need To Be Packed?
Packing and over thinking seem to go hand in hand for me. I find this pretty strange since I do 20+ business trips a year. Most people would expect that anyone who travels as much as I do could pack with their eyes closed. Maybe some can, but not me. My natural tendency is to bring everything; including the kitchen sink and the dishes in it.
Planning what to bring for Raid Corsica has been an interesting exercise. As a frequent air traveler, I appreciate utilizing only a carry-on bag. It’s efficient, time saving, and convenient. The only downside is that all your stuff is smashed in a small “carry-on” bag which is then crammed into an overhead compartment the size of a microwave. The guy sitting next to you then smashes his bag in front of yours. Anything breakable is toast and the rest is unrecognizable by the end of the flight. But, at least you have it. Packing for a cycling adventure is a bit more difficult.
Unlike packing for a business trip where I bring a suit, two white shirts, a tie, a few undies, etc., packing for six days of cycling requires a little more planning. I actually have to stratgize about how much chamois cream, sunscreen, and bonk breakers I need in order to survive six days. Does dzNuts come in quart size? And what constitutes the prescription dosage for ibuprofen? Is a SPF 75 sunscreen enough or do I need a full-on zinc cream? Not to mention that, for days, I’ve carried on a personal debate over washing out jerseys and shorts versus packing new ones for each day.
As if just the volume of items that need to be packed is not enough, Steve, Michael and I also have the dilemma of having to bring two bags. One bag will have to carry all our stuff from one hotel to the next while we also need a “sag” bag that follows us during the day. Now I have to think about both what to pack, and how to divide it between what’s needed during the day and what’s necessary for the evening.
Rosey understands what I’m going through and has already said, “don’t over think this.” Maybe she’s right (as usual). Packing and over thinking are a conjoined process for me. Perhaps just throwing everything in a duffel like I used for surf camp is the best option. After all, if I do forget something, there are stores on Corsica.
Packing and over thinking seem to go hand in hand for me. I find this pretty strange since I do 20+ business trips a year. Most people would expect that anyone who travels as much as I do could pack with their eyes closed. Maybe some can, but not me. My natural tendency is to bring everything; including the kitchen sink and the dishes in it.
Planning what to bring for Raid Corsica has been an interesting exercise. As a frequent air traveler, I appreciate utilizing only a carry-on bag. It’s efficient, time saving, and convenient. The only downside is that all your stuff is smashed in a small “carry-on” bag which is then crammed into an overhead compartment the size of a microwave. The guy sitting next to you then smashes his bag in front of yours. Anything breakable is toast and the rest is unrecognizable by the end of the flight. But, at least you have it. Packing for a cycling adventure is a bit more difficult.
Unlike packing for a business trip where I bring a suit, two white shirts, a tie, a few undies, etc., packing for six days of cycling requires a little more planning. I actually have to stratgize about how much chamois cream, sunscreen, and bonk breakers I need in order to survive six days. Does dzNuts come in quart size? And what constitutes the prescription dosage for ibuprofen? Is a SPF 75 sunscreen enough or do I need a full-on zinc cream? Not to mention that, for days, I’ve carried on a personal debate over washing out jerseys and shorts versus packing new ones for each day.
As if just the volume of items that need to be packed is not enough, Steve, Michael and I also have the dilemma of having to bring two bags. One bag will have to carry all our stuff from one hotel to the next while we also need a “sag” bag that follows us during the day. Now I have to think about both what to pack, and how to divide it between what’s needed during the day and what’s necessary for the evening.
Rosey understands what I’m going through and has already said, “don’t over think this.” Maybe she’s right (as usual). Packing and over thinking are a conjoined process for me. Perhaps just throwing everything in a duffel like I used for surf camp is the best option. After all, if I do forget something, there are stores on Corsica.
Tuesday, May 6, 2014
Am I Ready?
The idea of a cycling adventure in Corsica arose some time ago; perhaps as early as last summer. Almost from the day the decision was made, one word has been haunting my most inner thoughts: training. Surrounding that word was, and remains, many questions. Will I be ready? How will I train during the peak of my business travel season? What does an average of 100 miles a day for six days feel like? And these were only my preliminary thoughts. As the Raid draws closer, concerns of weather, clothing, food, and rental bike have loomed larger.
Those of you who know me have long realized that I can be both absent minded and a bit ADHD. Perhaps that’s why I developed my love for being organized. It’s probably the only way I make it through even the most common day. Days that most people would view as unstructured, I visualize a minute by minute agenda of what needs to be done.
Preparing for the Raid Corsica has been both a blessing and a curse to my organizational skills. A blessing in that it has thrust me into an unparalleled personal running and riding training program. Sometimes my training caused me to get off a plane and almost immediately jump into my shorts and run in cities as diverse as New York City and Boise. On other days, I would schedule by flights so I would get in a ride before dark. It was only my ability to envision and develop a training program that included 17 cities, United Airlines, and of course the pressure of Strava, that has pushed me into probably the best cycling shape of my life. And yes, that’s the blessing part.
It’s also been a curse in that it’s been an omnipresent anxiety that wakes me at 3:00 AM and dominates my conversations with friends and family. I probably can’t go more than a couple hours without either thinking about it, wondering if I’m ready and stress about what else I could have done.
Mercifully, Raid Corsica is almost here. In a way, it’s been like preparing for Christmas. The days before are hectic if not downright insane. However, Christmas Eve does arrive. Stores close, nothing ordered online will arrive tomorrow, and the streets grow quiet. I’ve organized everything I possibly can and it’s getting close to the eve of the Raid Corsica.
All there is left to do is, pack, get there, and pedal my heart out.
Next Post - Does All This Stuff Have To Be Packed?
The idea of a cycling adventure in Corsica arose some time ago; perhaps as early as last summer. Almost from the day the decision was made, one word has been haunting my most inner thoughts: training. Surrounding that word was, and remains, many questions. Will I be ready? How will I train during the peak of my business travel season? What does an average of 100 miles a day for six days feel like? And these were only my preliminary thoughts. As the Raid draws closer, concerns of weather, clothing, food, and rental bike have loomed larger.
Those of you who know me have long realized that I can be both absent minded and a bit ADHD. Perhaps that’s why I developed my love for being organized. It’s probably the only way I make it through even the most common day. Days that most people would view as unstructured, I visualize a minute by minute agenda of what needs to be done.
Preparing for the Raid Corsica has been both a blessing and a curse to my organizational skills. A blessing in that it has thrust me into an unparalleled personal running and riding training program. Sometimes my training caused me to get off a plane and almost immediately jump into my shorts and run in cities as diverse as New York City and Boise. On other days, I would schedule by flights so I would get in a ride before dark. It was only my ability to envision and develop a training program that included 17 cities, United Airlines, and of course the pressure of Strava, that has pushed me into probably the best cycling shape of my life. And yes, that’s the blessing part.
It’s also been a curse in that it’s been an omnipresent anxiety that wakes me at 3:00 AM and dominates my conversations with friends and family. I probably can’t go more than a couple hours without either thinking about it, wondering if I’m ready and stress about what else I could have done.
Mercifully, Raid Corsica is almost here. In a way, it’s been like preparing for Christmas. The days before are hectic if not downright insane. However, Christmas Eve does arrive. Stores close, nothing ordered online will arrive tomorrow, and the streets grow quiet. I’ve organized everything I possibly can and it’s getting close to the eve of the Raid Corsica.
All there is left to do is, pack, get there, and pedal my heart out.
Next Post - Does All This Stuff Have To Be Packed?
Monday, May 5, 2014
Raid Corsica – A Brief Introduction
Welcome to my “Raid Corsica” blog. It’s been several years since I’ve blogged about a cycling adventure so I’ll have to retrain my mind to think, and my fingers to type after hours in the saddle. This alone may present an interesting challenge.
The real challenge, of course, is the Raid Corsica. For those of you who many not know about the Raid Corsica, Corsica itself, or the simple foolishness that Steve Himmelrich, Michael Bickel and I are about to embark upon, here’s a brief introduction.
Corsica is an island just off the western coast of Italy. While it’s close to the Italian coast, it’s governed by France and is actually a French “department”. It’s the most mountainous and geographically diverse of the Mediterranean islands with beautiful seas and beaches framed by towering mountains. The island hosted the first three stages of the 2013 Tour de France, so you saw it on TV last summer. But, if you didn't, here is a short video.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kRHceMQR57o
The Raid Corsica or Tour de Corsica takes place over six days. During this time we will basically circumnavigate the island, cycling approximately 1000 km (622 miles) and climbing 14,000 m (46,000 feet). The Raid was established by the Parisian Audax Club, the same merciless masterminds who devised the Paris – Beast – Paris race. The Raid is not timed. Rather, the goal is to finish each stage before being pulled off the course due to darkness. Our personal goal is not necessarily to finish first, but we don’t want to come in last either. The Raid starts next Monday, 12 May at approximately 8:00 AM (11:00 PM Sunday, 11 May in California). In the meantime, we have to get from Atascadero, California to Bastia, France.
Steve, Michael and I will be riding with 16 other cycling crazies who are attempting to conquer this year’s Raid Corsica. We believe the others are all Brits which leads me to wonder what French cyclists know that we don’t. We’ve trained and tortured ourselves. Now it’s time to taper and get a little rest.
I’ll do a couple more posts before the Raid starts. Stay tuned.
A note on the daily postings: It is with a full heart and open mind that I will attempt to post every evening after we complete the day’s stage. However, due to Internet connections, time, and perhaps just pure exhaustion, I might not be able to post every day. If this happens, I will try to catch-up the next day.
NEXT POSTING – Am I Ready?
Welcome to my “Raid Corsica” blog. It’s been several years since I’ve blogged about a cycling adventure so I’ll have to retrain my mind to think, and my fingers to type after hours in the saddle. This alone may present an interesting challenge.
The real challenge, of course, is the Raid Corsica. For those of you who many not know about the Raid Corsica, Corsica itself, or the simple foolishness that Steve Himmelrich, Michael Bickel and I are about to embark upon, here’s a brief introduction.
Corsica is an island just off the western coast of Italy. While it’s close to the Italian coast, it’s governed by France and is actually a French “department”. It’s the most mountainous and geographically diverse of the Mediterranean islands with beautiful seas and beaches framed by towering mountains. The island hosted the first three stages of the 2013 Tour de France, so you saw it on TV last summer. But, if you didn't, here is a short video.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kRHceMQR57o
The Raid Corsica or Tour de Corsica takes place over six days. During this time we will basically circumnavigate the island, cycling approximately 1000 km (622 miles) and climbing 14,000 m (46,000 feet). The Raid was established by the Parisian Audax Club, the same merciless masterminds who devised the Paris – Beast – Paris race. The Raid is not timed. Rather, the goal is to finish each stage before being pulled off the course due to darkness. Our personal goal is not necessarily to finish first, but we don’t want to come in last either. The Raid starts next Monday, 12 May at approximately 8:00 AM (11:00 PM Sunday, 11 May in California). In the meantime, we have to get from Atascadero, California to Bastia, France.
Steve, Michael and I will be riding with 16 other cycling crazies who are attempting to conquer this year’s Raid Corsica. We believe the others are all Brits which leads me to wonder what French cyclists know that we don’t. We’ve trained and tortured ourselves. Now it’s time to taper and get a little rest.
I’ll do a couple more posts before the Raid starts. Stay tuned.
A note on the daily postings: It is with a full heart and open mind that I will attempt to post every evening after we complete the day’s stage. However, due to Internet connections, time, and perhaps just pure exhaustion, I might not be able to post every day. If this happens, I will try to catch-up the next day.
NEXT POSTING – Am I Ready?
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