S. M. Lukas

For Sale: Specialized P.3 Dirtjumper

2011-10-13T15:19:00.002-05:00

Selling my 2007 Specialized P.3 Dirtjumper for "dirt" cheap.
MRSP at the time was $1700. Only been ridden by 125lb me. So I am looking pretty cheap. Need to get rid of it and make a few extra bucks. No offer is too cheap...well...maybe

Specs are all pretty much the same as stock, so take a look, make me an offer. Let me know!

lukas_sarah@hotmail.com

http://www.specialized.com/us/en/bc/SBCBkModel.jsp?sid=07PBikes

Progressive Hardtail
The 'P' in 'P.Bikes' doesn't stand for "Pretty". No fluff and no sparkly stuff. Just bombproof rides that mix advanced technology and top-shelf materials with geometry proven in the street, park and dirt.

You study physics on eight-packs, quarter pipes and off random walls down empty streets on the wrong side of the tracks. You need a bike that's not afraid of to take a few tumbles and learn a few lessons on the dark side of the street. So we created the P.Series.

The P.3 can ride it all, but is most at home on the dirt, whether jumping or freeriding hardtail-style.

Gateway Cup Part Deux (cyclocross)

2011-09-25T17:06:00.004-05:00

2 great races in St Louis. Gateway Cup and Gateway Cross Cup. Really had a lot of fun at them, and the courses and crowds were great! My legs, not so great. Thanks to both promoters for setting up amazing races.

After having a rocky fall season I thought what better than to throw myself into a small UCI cross field. It seemed like a great idea. So did wearing Owen's longsleeve skinsuit since I never got mine. A bit baggy, but we make it work.

After racing my....erm...cross bike at Gateway Cup it needed some tuning up from my crash. In a last minute attempt to fix I wanted to race in St. Louis, and it was anything but glorious. I'll admit, being able to see Ashley James again was uplifting, and her support helped me out a lot. She's a true person and it was good to have a spirit like hers around again.

Off the line I was struggling. UCI officials were on my about my tire size. "No, they really are 32mm tires." I tried to tell him and he did not want any explanation.

"You will need to get those check out, now roll up."

Ugh. Pit in my stomach as I rolled up to the second and last row of our starting order. A bit out of it I tried to peak my way around to see the start light which would tell us to go. Seriously? I can't even see it. With such a small group, a strong start it crucial. I guess the light must've turned green because we are going!

I am sure I blew out a knee from spinning so fast. My chain dropped from the big ring and thought I was too weak to go back up. What did I ever do to it to defy my wishes? Maybe it was pissed I had raced it on the road and crashed it numerous times. Understandable.

From there, the race only got worse. Caught up in a crash on a tight turn didn't help. I once heard a saying, others have excuses, but I have my reasons why. I definitely am not sure if mine are true reasons, just a long list of excuses why I felt miserable.

Not only was that race an embarrassment, but I did get a nice payout. I felt like it was consolation payout...Nice try. Better luck in 4 years when your muscles develop.

So, with an exhausted set of legs I try to recover for my first collegiate mountain bike race coming up this next weekend.

Gateway Cup the Original

2011-09-25T15:52:00.003-05:00

Losing myself in something other than blogging my updates have been weak. Maybe it is because I do not have too much to update on. Left Boulder, Colorado and back in the Midwest. I am currently in St. Louis, MO. Maybe not the most ideal location to be at the moment, but it will do.

Labor Day weekend was the annual Gateway Cup. 4 days of crit racing in St. Louis.

Unfortunately, my 4 days were short lived only completing one race, Friday's evening race.

Day 1: The heat was blistering as we raced for maybe 40 minutes. Cramped in the finishing sprint and finished in the upper midpack. The field was huge! I was so impressed for a local women's race. Just under 50 starters! Pretty happy to see that. I just wasn't motivated to do anything. All I did for the day was sat in and sprinted in the field sprint.Photo: Me sticking around with my new Belgian teammate, Junior rider Hanne Zmierczak.

Day 2: Felt pretty good during the race. Once again, didn't put that effort out to put my position in a great final place. Maybe that was where I went horribly wrong. Once again a field sprint, but it was fairly spread out.

I was in full sprint, in the drops, standing up, gritting my teeth. All of a sudden a rider that I was following sits up before the finish and rolls her rear wheel into my front. I watched as my front wheel headed into her cassette and heard the blow-out. My front wheel blows and I felt like I it all happened in slow motion. I heard every scrape, and felt every burn. The rim scraped the ground and I fell on my left side. I somehow managed to turn my body during the slide to make sure I would get road rash on every limb. It only made sense. I also made sure to slam my head to the ground as I hit so I could justify buying a new and prettier helmet. I finally came to a hault, but no one else did. Of course, it's a sprint, who wants to stop?? I opened my eyes to see a rider barreling straight at me, no chance of missing. I closed my eyes, and somehow did not feel a damn thing as I got hit. Apparently she slammed my head? Who knows.

So there I was, the finish line just up the road, me lying on the ground, God knows where my bike was, and my head throbbing. After the last of the lapped riders rolled through I was "tended" to.

That ended my Gateway Cup 2011. Or so I thought. Yes, it was the end of my racing that weekend, and for a little bit. After easing my way back into proper hygiene, like showering, I was finally back on the bike.

Raced my ass off at Chequamegon 40, where I could get my ass kicked by Lea Davison and Christian Vande Velde. Brian Matter and my coach TJ Woodruff rocked the race, and I am one of those riders that makes their result look outstanding.

Living in the Mountains

2011-08-27T20:39:00.006-05:00

Boulder

2011-05-22T08:56:00.006-05:00

Some photos of my first riding day in Boulder

Moving on...

2011-05-22T08:53:00.002-05:00

Very excited for what is in store for me next, I have taken 2 jobs out in Boulder. I am looking forward to interning for VeloNews and as well for Trek Store Boulder. Things started going my way after a mentally challenging spring road season, I am excited to be out in Boulder working in the industry I love the most, and riding in some of the best riding in the country.

Road Nationals

2011-05-09T22:47:00.003-05:00

Road nats was pretty tough this year, but no where near the insanity of last year's. The weather cooperated to the extent to make us all so happy. I think it was Carla sending some light from above.

The road race was far from easy for me this year. My heart and my head just were missing towards the end of the season. I felt a lot of misjudgment for my lack of results this season and it was hard to give it everything I had. I think that is the worst feeling ever when there are the people who are only there if you are on top.

I felt I had a great season once I came into form, especially considering I am not a road racer and raced all season on a cross bike. Granted, the cross bike was one of the nicest cross bikes on the market, I still use that as a slight excuse to my lack of heart in road.

I enjoyed the crit race, and found myself enjoying crits pretty much the entire season.

Perhaps, though, the best part about a challenging nationals weekend, is seeing the people that matter most to me. My family and my friends. It was hard to see all of us go separate ways after LWC, but it's the moments when we reunite and see eachother doing what we love that makes it great.

Owen raced the men's TTT. Luckily for me we only have 2 women so no TTT for me. They missed the stacked podium by 2 places and finished 7th.

Team World Bicycle Relief

2011-04-11T15:37:00.002-05:00

Check it out here.

For Sale

2011-04-07T15:26:00.002-05:00

Optic Nerve Autovaughn sunglasses

Check them out here

Cost: $59.00

Never been used or worn. New with tags, box, lifetime warranty, and soft glasses bag.

Color: Shiny Powder Pink

This new platform combines all the benefits and ergonomics TORIC lenses offer, with a sleek, aggressive sporty platform. Maximum coverage, vented lenses and a wicked cool shape create a combustible and visual combination. Fits medium face shapes well for both men and women.

Features:

100% UV Protection

Active Lens Venting

Focalpoint Lens Technology

Four-point Frame Fit

Polycarbonate Lens Resin

Tactilite Rubber Components

Notre Dame...

2011-04-01T21:41:00.002-05:00

...was not my weekend

It truly was just not happening for me. Especially in the crit race.

Road race was fair.

That's about all the words I have for last weekend.

To come in the future

2011-03-30T21:31:00.003-05:00

Some things to come in the future...aside from me racing and training, I have been growing something in my mind.

With some talks with Empower-A-Child President, Wilson Hannington Kabeera, we believe that a sort of race/ride that will be as a form of a fundraising ride for Empower-A-Child will be in the works.

With the knowledge and network base I have, or may not have, I hope to follow through with this hope and dream. I would love to develop a ride for this organization that I feel so passionate about and spent part of my last summer working for in Uganda.

As plans and developments come into play, I would appreciate any ideas, suggestions, or help along with this. This will not happen within the next month, but I'd love to build towards an amazing result.

Please...let me know of any help whether they are just words of encouragement or physical suggestions of some things that could help make this a success.

MTB Nationals

2011-03-22T15:28:00.002-05:00

Old Mountain Bike Nationals article found here.

For the first time for in program history, the Lindenwood cycling team sent two riders to the mountain bike nationals. The Lions finished 19th in the team omnium ranks with just two riders being scored.

Zak Haffner and Sarah Lukas travelled to Truckee, California to compete in two events each, cross country and short track. The first event was a challenging and technical cross country course approximately 25 miles in length. Haffner raced to finish 51st in a challenging men’s field, and Lukas, having raced at nationals before, finished 23rd.

The second race was a 30 minute-long challenging short track race. Haffner finished 39th in his best result of the weekend. Lukas had an impressive short track race, completing her best finish at mountain bike nationals yet. After battling for a podium spot with Colorado University rider Deidre York, Lukas fell back to finish in 10th.

Fort Lewis College won the omnium competition dominating the weekend’s races.

Haffner and Lukas qualified for nationals with impressive showings at regionals which were hosted by the University of Missouri.

Ohio State and Mizzou

2011-03-15T10:58:00.004-05:00

The racing continues in this part of the country giving us beautiful weather one day, and Wisconsin weather the next. Sometimes my body does not know what state I am in.

It makes me want to scream...I just want to ride outside throughout the week!

The races have been tough with results ranging from satisfactory to disappointing. I am still waiting to be completely happy with my race weekends.

Thanks to Paul Baker for some fabulous photography, and letting me steal his camera for my own picture taking.

Me and my wonderful ex-teammate, Alder Martz after the Time Trials in Columbia, Missouri this past weekend.

Me and Owen pre 70 mile road race

The racing continues...

Crit Race

2011-03-05T09:45:00.001-06:00

The crit race was hard...not sure why I struggled so much

Here's to next week's race.

LWC Road Race

2011-02-26T17:51:00.004-06:00

We traveled to my old stomping grounds in Kentucky for the first official race of the season. Unsure of what I felt about it. Feelings of sadness from missing the town and the people, feelings of excitement to put my legs to work and ride my bike, feelings of nerves of possible disappointment...All the feeling flood me before the race.

(Photo Credit to Ryan Storm)

The field size was good and the weather agreeable. I felt stronger on the course this year. We had 2 longer laps. The first lap went well, stomping up the climbs and having a nice group split. I found myself settled in the lead group with my teammate Ashley R. Trying to stay away from working too hard we trying to find a good spot. The rest of the lap was not too bad until we came up to the lap point...Little Cake Hill. Do not be fooled by the pleasantly delicious sounding name of the hill...it is a BITCH. Steep, long, painful. Some have called it "Ashley James's Hill" for her crushing efforts she put on it last year. Little Cake Hill as the one who suffered. But this year there was no Ashley James to hurt it, so in turn, it just hurt me.

The winning attack happened on this hill. Anna Young and Jackie Kurth blasted up it leaving the rest of us in definite pain. I put my strength into my legs and my heart to get me up it with the group. I got to the top with the rest of the strung out group. It regrouped quickly...But I did not. The cramping calves allowed me to be dropped very easily from the recovering group. I spun and spun to keep them loose, but it was not going to subside any time soon.

Once the cramping went away I found myself with one long, hilly lap to go...Alone. I was able to keep motivated to hope those behind me would not catch up. Last thing I wanted was to be caught by the chase group, even though it would have made the lap so much more enjoyable. There is not much more to say about it as I rolled in for my finish.

My legs were a bit tired, confidence a bit bruised, but I am well on my way. It will take a little time I know, but I cannot give up.

Tomorrow we are set up for the crit race. Something I have been performing a little better in.

Until then, enjoy!

Winter Training

2011-02-11T12:22:00.002-06:00

Sydney

2011-02-11T11:28:00.012-06:00

Me and Owen headed to Sydney before the flight out to the States. What an awesome city! I wish I had gotten more time here. But the two days there was enough to make me not want to return back to the snowy, icy states.

Darling Harbour in the evening was beautiful. The lights of the city on the harbour water reflected to make everything even brighter.

It was a calm area. Even though the amount of people around at the restaurants and at the harbour was a large amount, it did not feel incredibly busy. There were kids playing in the water fountains, and groups of girls going for a night out in their stilettos.

A slow walk around Darling Harbour is very tranquil.

And it was not uncommon for a commuter bike to be a nice fixie track bike with Hed 3 Carbon wheels.

The next day was another nice stroll to Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House.

While we missed the hype of Oprah at the Opera, we did get to check everything out.

The outer side of the Opera House was much different than I thought. It was crafted with neat tiles that fit properly together. The color was more of a creme.

If you were lucky and had a little money to spend, you could climb the Syndey Harbour Bridge with a support crew of other frightened volunteers. The view must have been breathtaking though.

While the silly people are climbing the bridge, we had our own idea of fun...finding some delicious cupcakes.

Our choice cupcake was chocolate molten.

We also opted for the cheaper bridge climb and walked across the bridge.

It still gave us a great view of the Opera House.

Here is a view of the Australia Flag with the Centerpoint Tower in the background

And finally, a friendly companion to join us on our travels. We removed him from our car.

Remembering

2011-01-29T23:29:00.008-06:00

I think about when I was younger, where I am now, and how things have changed. I look at where I have been, what I have done, what I have lost, and what I have gained. Sometimes I am not sure where I lost track of it all. I grew up in northern Wisconsin, but found myself living in Kentucky, London, Africa, Missouri, and found a home in Australia. All those places are my home, so where do I ever call "home"?

I continue to be a free spirit, a wanderer. Where I feel most comfortable, on the bike. It takes me anywhere, brings me to anyones, and gets me to see anything.

(Photo credits to: Thomas D Compton)

I feel like I work hard, but not hard enough. I push myself, but not far enough. I hold back. I misjudge.

Times comes and goes so quickly. And sometimes it can be taken from us. In such short time we lose so many that we love. Some are even taken from us doing the things we love the most.

Love with everything. Don't waste time. If you love doing it, do it. And remember the beauty that we are given. Carla was surely a beautiful thing. Her words spoke to us, and with each pedal stroke we saw what she had in store for us. We know her talent was rare, but we cherish every moment that she was given to us.

My favorite memory of when I first met Carla:

It was in 2007, Collegiate Mountain Bike Nationals in Banner Elk, North Carolina at Lees McCrae.

Muddy, wet, and cold, we all warmed up for the xc race.

She rolled up next to me during warm ups wearing tennis shoes and flat pedals. I looked at her and thought, man she is going to have a rough day. I asked her if she used clips ever and Carla responded that she chose to use tennis shoes because it'd be easier to run the course in the mud than to ride.

We laughed and there wasn't any more need for explanation. The logic worked. And she proved it to us. She finished in 3rd place, and only went on to do amazing things afterwards. She always will stick in my head though, as wearing her blue helmet and those tennis shoes. My how we evolve.

RIP Carla

Australia

2011-01-24T16:53:00.001-06:00

More to come....

Stay tuned for more!

Christmas and New Year's in Australia

2011-01-24T16:48:00.003-06:00

I spent the good holidays still down in Australia. Everything was fairly low-key, but I enjoyed it a lot. I needed some time where I did not feel that when I got home I needed another vacation.

Christmas was lovely at the Belton house and they brought me in as part of the family.

New Year's was spent at the neighbour's house after watching fireworks on the beach. It was a 60th birthday party, but oh my do Australians know how to have a great time! The food was wonderful. Everything from kebabs, pavlova, cheese and sausage dishes, and plenty and plenty of champagne.

Ellenborough Falls

2011-01-24T16:27:00.007-06:00

The drive to Ellenborough Falls, still in New South Wales, was beautiful. We went there with Owen and his family to check it out and have lunch at a small restaurant nearby.

Here is a shot of the fall itself.

A very large ant...no no, it's actually just zoomed in. Tricked ya though!

Owen looking out at the Falls' lookout. Gorgeous views.

A cicada beetle, bug, thing. There was so many of these cute creatures on our journey to the falls, and their mating calls were insane enough to have intelligent travelers bringing their own ear plugs. I missed that note of advice. I took some video to show how loud they were but I seem to be unable to locate it....

Camping at Barrington Tops

2010-12-22T19:49:00.007-06:00

Owen was awesome and took me camping from Sunday until Wednesday. He had it all planned out as to what areas inland Australia we could hit up and getting all of our stuff together.

We drove a few hours inland from where Owen lives on the coast to a town called Gloucester. There, we grabbed a beer and watched a little bit of lawn bowl before heading out of town to the woods. Lawn bowl is quite interesting and I have only seen it in the movie CrackerJack. Interesting game.

Once we set out to the woods we found a nice campsite that sat right next to Manning River. It was very cozy and very beautiful. The drive out was just as amazing too.

Owen was quite the chef, cooking us up some very nice dinner. Then it was just some reading, card playing, and relaxing by the river.

We did get a chance to do some adventuring about throughout the area, fighting through the wind, but at the same time seeing some of the most beautiful landscape I have ever seen. Words and photos cannot do it justice, but it's the best attempt I can make.

We then headed to camp out at some "mountains" called Barrington Tops.

Our campsite again was next to a lovely river where we did some more adventuring. We found a beautiful pool in the river. It was breathtaking, and all it took was some skilled rockhopping up the river.

Besides from the vast and gorgeous countryside, we got to hang out with some animals. Mainly a great little goat that decided to jump up into our truck. Very friendly, and just wanted a nice little pat....or some food...whichever he could get I suppose.

The trip ended as we drove back to the coast to Diamond Beach. The evening was spent kicking around in the ocean and enjoying some great fresh seafood that Owen's father picked out himself from the low tide. I could not ask for more...

Diamond Beach, Blackhead

2010-12-22T05:32:00.003-06:00

This is probably the easiest way to sum up the past few days here in Australia. A photo story might show the best of what I have seen thus far. I have done some riding, some racing, some surfing. Everything has been wonderful. Staying with Owen and riding with the boys really could not be better.

I am not so sure how much it will truly feel like Christmas without all the white snow. But I am quite alright with that!

Enjoy some photos of hiking at Blackhead beach nearby Diamond Beach where Owen lives, and also some riding pictures.

A heart that Scott had found

Overlooking Blackhead again.

The climb up to overlook Blackhead Beach

Owen at the top.

The rocky surroundings

Owen jumping into a rock pool at Blackhead

Owen showed me this nice cave at Blackhead, as well as his strength.

Tide pool at Blackhead Beach, nearby Owen's house where I am staying.

Tim and Owen teaching me how to surf.

Owen catching some waves.

This is Diamond Beach, right behind where I am staying.

The bridge going into Forester, about 20 miles from Owen's house at Diamond Beach

Diamond Beach surfing

Forester

Starting to train again...

Owen, Scott, and Tim at the Wednesday night races

Australia

2010-12-17T20:40:00.000-06:00

After much work, I finally made it to Australia.

Here in Diamond Beach is gorgeous. I will post some photos and stories soon. With limited internet it is tough.

Some side notes:

surfing is wonderful

living next to the beach is even better

I am very out of shape

I am never coming back to the US

My baby Blue

2010-12-02T14:57:00.002-06:00

As cross season came upon us, so did a new member of my family...

As you can see here, my new cross bike joined us. Now, he has been around for awhile, but I just did not give him credit when he first arrived. I do apologize for the lack of attention to him, but here he is.

Unfortunately, I did not get to race him as much as I had intended, but will be racing him soon in Australia...but I think I am going to race him on the road..... shhh.

Anyways, if you have any interest in this beautiful steed, he could be yours. For a small price of course.

He is a small s/m (52cm) stallion, but with lots to offer. I may be willing to part with him if anyone has a desire to make an offer. I would more than likely sell him just as a frameset, and it would be in January when I would sell him.

Any takers??

World Bicycle Relief

2010-12-01T14:28:00.002-06:00

Support Team World Bicycle Relief! Help donate to buy a bike for people in Zimbabwe.
Donate easy online...$5 would do the trick.
Here is the link, donate under me, Georgia Gould, Jeremy Powers, anyone! to help out.

Thank you!

The Spirit of St Louis

2010-11-21T11:01:00.002-06:00

St Louis Blues vs Ottawa Senators the other night.

Blues won 5-2.

Not too bad of an evening!

Cyclocross

2010-11-08T17:56:00.002-06:00

My first cross race this season...

On a brighter note: Headed to Australia for 6 weeks for training during the cold winter months. Looking forward to Christmas on the beach.

Congrats to Brian, Andrea, and Rachael on great finishes at Iceman.

Mountain Bike Nationals- Lake Tahoe

2010-10-20T15:30:00.010-05:00

I have been fairly busy lately. Mainly with the moving to St. Charles, Missouri where I now race for Lindenwood. Yes that is correct. I no longer am with Lindsey Wilson College. They were amazing, but after 3 years it was time to move on. So here I am.

I spent the summer racing crits and came into the fall struggling on the mountain bike. It seemed like my kind of luck. I struggled with the transition and found little quality training time. Regardless, I had to suck it up and race the mountain bike season.
Conference went well. I only race 2 race weekends. One race weekend in Columbia, Kentucky, and the other race weekend in...well...Columbia, Missouri. Two different Columbia's that offered me the same results in each race. 2nd. It began to sink into me that I couldn't push myself far enough to make that 1st happen.

Regardless, I had a weekend off, then spent last weekend in the altitude filled mountains of California. Northstar, Lake Tahoe.

It was that time of year again for mountain bike nationals. It was my fourth year in a row and you think by now I'd feel at ease with the idea of it. Oh no, I was anticipating getting crushed.

I was excited for nationals, but this year I opted out of racing downhill and 4cross for the opportunity to focus on endurance as opposed to omnium. This is a decision I am very happy about.

Northstar may be one of my favorite mountain bike venues I have been to. The downhill, xc, stxc, all of it is a blast.

The weekend started out with cross country on Friday. 3 laps of UP and DOWN. No inbetween it felt. But it suited me well. The first two laps I settled in so comfortably on the climbs I didn't feel the effects of the fact it was a climb or the 7000 feet. I settled into a top 10 position.

As you can tell, I clearly enjoyed myself, as Ric Damm's excellent photography skills have captured. Race photos were taken by him. Thank you!
By my third lap I feel back...quite a bit. Not really a bonk, but just a lack of fitness to hold on to. A good size group caught and passed me and I could not react. I held on for 23rd for the day.

Short track was the next day, Saturday. 30 minutes of pure hell. I could only imagine how my sore legs would hold up for 30 minutes, that was if I didn't get pulled.

Miraculously something happened. First lap I stayed steady behind a group. I anticipated them to tire quickly after a fast paced start and I could overtake them. I was able to move through the mid pack and up into 6th place behind Jill Behlen. 3rd and 4th place were right in front of us and podium contention was in the fate of me and my legs. It was up to me to make it happen, and she was right there.

Knowing just what was at stake pushed me. I tried to hold on until Deidre York and another of her teammate caught up to me and pulled in front of me. I now sat in 9th. After some back and forth action and another girl passing all 3 of us, we sat in 8-10 place.

I was guaranteed a top 10 if I stayed steady. Final lap came and I stayed close on the wheels in front of me. As we climbed the last climb I waited to make my move before the singletrack. Unfortunately their strength out matched mine and I found myself 10th going into the singletrack, thus deciding my race.

I finished 10th for the day.

I could not be happier with my results at nationals this year. I feel strong, which I did not expect to feel.

After some adversity this summer and fall season, it came together for me when I needed it to, and it felt great. I feel motivated. I have so many people to thank. Lindenwood Uni and team, Chris Mileski, Gear Grinder, my wonderful family and of course the Aussie crew. I could not have done it without any of them.

Most importantly, I could not have been out there, or my past 3 nationals if it wasn't for Jeff Littman. Jeff helped me acquire my Orbea Alma, and did everything he could to get it for me. He was a miracle worked, and I believe he still is. We love you, Jeff.

So thank you to everyone who still supports me, whether I'm in Wisconsin, Kentucky, Missouri, Africa, Europe, or California. Knowing you guys are still behind me makes a world of difference.

Next up: Cyclocross. No Iceman. If you are interested in an Iceman entry, I do have mine yet. Feel free to get ahold of me!

Gateway Cup

2010-09-23T09:22:00.001-05:00

Lots of fun crit racing in some new colors

Chippewa Valley Firecracker

2010-07-19T20:14:00.003-05:00

Pretty much a flop of a race.

The start went well...Really well...

(Photo Credit to the amazing Brittany Night)
I felt good in my warm up- I just all around felt great. Until the last lap something bonked on me. Not my legs or my endurance, but wow did my stomach eat itself. And I went straight backwards.
With the motivation of those around me, all I search for was a finish- regardless of the result.

And that's what I got- a finish.

Next up??

Secret Training in Missouri...

The Latest Scoop

2010-07-08T10:49:00.002-05:00

How busy things have been...but then in reality when I look at it all- it hasn't been all that busy.

When I got back from Uganda I felt pretty sick. Stomach bug? Maybe it was the complicated foods that we have here that I wasn't used to? It still bothers me. Maybe I have a parasite...

Anywho, I did my first mountain bike race at Kewaskum. I figured it couldn't be all that bad since I have done so much riding on the road, Kewaskum is practically a road course. Not much technical skills out there. I was wrong and my body said "no."

I decided to see how my body would respond to high intensity, so I hopped in on the Tour of America's Dairyland. I did a crit in Sheboygan, and really didn't feel all that bad. Besides the end field sprint I really had great positioning and covering during the race.

I must be riding alright then. Subaru Cup was up next. A big race with lots of opportunity for redemption. Cross Country was a fluke. Same story different race. Short track was on Sunday then, with Super D to follow. Short track went better, still not fabulous. And Super D I crashed out on.

It just hasn't been on my side and it is very frustrating.

This weekend is Miner's Revenge and Eau Claire. I am thinking just racing up at Eau Claire.

Oh well..until then my friends

Uganda Photos

2010-06-03T12:07:00.004-05:00

Coming Home

2010-05-30T13:42:00.002-05:00

My time is wrapping up as my flight for the States is coming up quickly. So much to recap on- but photos might be the best when I get the opportunity.

Travel Struggles

2010-05-23T00:15:00.006-05:00

I left the States almost a week ago now. I flew out of Chicago to Detroit on Sunday- missing the WORS race in Rhinelander. I did get a chance to preride the course and have a good time seeing everyone again.

I got into Detroit and rushed to my flight to Amsterdam. It felt like it was really happening now. I got on my flight and off to Amsterdam we went. Somewhere over the Atlantic Ocean the pilot gets on the PA and announces that due to the ash cloud the Icelandic volcano has produced we had to turn around. So we turned around and headed back for Detroit.

I had no idea what was going to happen, as Europe is my source for connecting to Africa. Should I find a ship?

We landed in Detroit at about 11pm Monday. After figuring everything out, and Delta hooking most of us up with a hotel, I finally was in bed at 3am. The next morning I was able to rebook a flight at 4pm. I was on my way to Amsterdam...flying first class...

Once in Amsterdam I realize my harddrive had crashed on my computer. Fabulous surprise. But I then was able to book a flight straight to Entebbe, in Kampala, Uganda.

Jayan from Empower A Child picked me up from the airport and drove about and hour to our house. I got there and was greeted with dinner and some wonderful friendly people.

I tried to settle in as I was a bit late from delayed travels. But I made it.

These photos are from around our house.

So I arrived late Tuesday night. On Wednesday we went to Kamtalemwa. Katalemwa is a hospital for children with severe disformaties such as bow legs etc, or war victims from north Uganda and Africa. These children are able to have surgeries performed free to help them. It was great to be around them and lift them up.

On Thursday we began the day at Nsambya, a babies/children's orphanage. We helped with work around the orphanage as well as played with the kids. After that, we ate lunch and headed to a Remand Home. The Remand home is for older kids and teens who were either delinquents or had no where else to go.

I'll update on Friday, Saturday, and today as I get more time later on. I just wanted to catch you guys up on a little bit of what I have been doing and some photos as well.

Kampala

2010-05-19T22:38:00.001-05:00

I arrived in Kampala safely. It is amazing here and the people are great. Internet is a bit slow so photos may come at a later date.

Check in soon!

Photos from Nationals

2010-05-17T09:10:00.003-05:00

Road nationals photos. I have been so busy but I wanted to get some of these up.

Road Season

2010-04-24T19:50:00.001-05:00

Hope and Support in Uganda

2010-03-23T12:02:00.003-05:00

Hey Everyone. This post is a bit different than my racing going on right now.

Many things are going on. School has been crazy busy as I edge closer to graduating with an Accuonting Degree and possibly a double major in Communications. Racing is in full swing. And I am highly motivated.

For 2010 I am returning to Gear Grinder as they have been highly supportive of me for over the past 3 years, even when I became injured and didn't show much for results last year.

Currently, in between training, racing, school work, and life itself, I am doing everything I can to go to Uganda after road nationals in May.

I am working through an organization called Empower-A-Child. They specialize in outreach programs and trips to Uganda and Kenya. I got accepted to go over to Uganda for 2 weeks: May 17-31.

Hope

(Amazing photography by Leslie Alsheimer photographing World Relief Projects and Uganda Outreach)

I am in need of much support right now. Both prayer and financial. If there is any way you would be able to find it in your heart to support this, it would be greatly appreciated. I am running low on time and still need to raise about $3000 to make this trip happen for me. I am heading over there alone, but will meet up with people from the States and UK.

Don't Panic

If you are willing to support me and possibly make a donation, you can mail me a check, or you can click my Donate PayPal button in the right hand corner of my blog. I would appreciate any amount. A little bit goes a long way, and it really is for a wonderful cause.

If you want more information get ahold of me. You know I love to talk!

Lindsey Wilson & Depauw Races

2010-03-20T10:18:00.004-05:00

Road season is in full swing. Shew, it's been awhile since I've done the whole road racing thing and wasn't sure how it'd go at all. My first race was our home race which brought amazing weather.Our road race was a challenging 50 mile course. We did two 25 mile laps with some solid climbing. I expected to get shelled on some of the climbs. I felt my training wasn't where it needed to be. But I ended up hanging in there with the chase group until we all strung apart. Finished midpack. Very happy with that result.The next day we had our crit race. Criteriums = the devil for me. I've always struggled with them. My expectations were so low going into this race. Little did I know I would find myself in the chase group again. We dropped the rest of the group and ended up 9th.

Depauw Road Race

The next weekend we headed to a cold and rainy Depauw for some racing. The road race was a sketch fest. Hidden pot holes, limited visibility. I just didn't feel right with the race. I fell back in the pack, which I am glad I did. In our field sprint there were some nasty crashes.Then Kip decided to get the van stuck in about a foot of mud. Awesome.My teammates broken Zipp wheel. Notice the spokes.
Next day was a crit. Another crit. Which was called another sketch fest. Wet, sandy turns were giving lots of carnage for the earlier races.

Had no teammates for this race, made me a bit nervous. Off the gun Marian attacked. I wasn't sure where to settle in. I settled in behind a chase on the leader, Sinead Miller. Carnage hit our field as there were crashes in the same corner in this parking lot crit, followed by a big mud pit if you rode off the road.Luckily I kept it up right and attacked the main group to finish first behind the chase. Which gave me an 8th place finish. Very happy with my crit riding.

Next up we had our Spring Break which was spent training in the beautiful weather and country roads of Kentucky.

Ebay Listing

2010-03-15T16:12:00.003-05:00

I have some cycling gloves up for sale if anyone is interested. Bid away.

Team Training Weekends

2010-03-11T11:47:00.002-06:00

The weather has been crazy. Snow one day. Beautiful 60s the next. But lately the weather consistancy has been fairly nice. Jersey and shorts weather. Amazing.
The team decided to do a 3.5 hour ride a couple weekends back and enjoy eachother's company while getting in some good miles.Not much to say about the riding, but some great views, great roads, great climbs, and great company.

These were just a couple shots from the ride.

For Sale

2010-01-26T13:29:00.002-06:00

FOR SALE

2009 Tricross Expert Frameset

I love this bike. But it is time for me to pay off some things and get rid of the bikes. The Tricross frameset a size 52cm.

On the smaller side but great for both cross racing and commuting on.

The frame is: E5 SLX Aluminum, fully manipulated tubing, smooth weld semi-compact Freeroad design, FACT carbon seat stays with Zertz inserts (my favorite part- it really was a neat addition to the frame)

The fork is also very nice. It is the S-Works FACT carbon, monocoque construction, full carbon legs, crown and steerer with Speed Zertz (yet again, a favorite)

I have the headset as well for it which is a Specialized Mindset, 1-1/8" integrated threadless, sealed cartridge bearings, 25mm alloy cone with some spacers.

I may even throw in the Specialized Pave II, FACT carbon seatpost with Zertz inserts and some brake mounts.

It's all negotiable what you would like with the bike. I just would like to kep the wheel set and groupo primarily.

If you have any interest in Lars, my Specialized Tricross, let me know. Send me a message on here or email me at lukas_sarah@hotmail.com.

The price is negotiable- I am looking around $400-$500. OBO. It is in excellent shape and only had me riding/racing on it.

Tell your friends :)

Cyclocross Nationals- Bend, Oregon

2010-01-14T19:16:00.004-06:00

Cyclocross Nationals was still pretty great this year. Raced both the Elite/U23 and the Collegiate race...which happened to be back to back on the same day on Sunday.We flew out...left from Nashville, Tennessee, flew into Denver, Colorado, then from Denver flew into Portland. From Portland we drove up to Bend.

Mt. Hood was beautiful, as was the scenery and it reminded me of a mountanous northern Wisconsin. I loved it.
The weather was cold but our team really had a great time. Here we are with Tim Johnson after the awards ceremony. He got another Nationals win in the Elite race. Tim is also an Lindsey Wilson College alumni. Good to see we have a good future ahead of us!

Me and Tim.

The Deschutes River where the course was just across from. Our hotel was right ontop of a little shopping village where we could look out and see the races. It was a great location.

In the little village, me and some of the crew went out for flatbread pizza. Wow...it was amazing.

Jake me and Stefan. Together from the beginning and now not much longer and we won't be racing together.

Here is my onlooking at the beginning of the Elite race...feeling in way too over my head. I survived the race and finished 3rd in the U23 race...no podium for U23 though? Odd...

Then after a quick change into the clean white skinsuit I began the collegiate race.

I was feeling a lot more pain this race. But everytime I passed the pits I could hear coach and my teammates yelling just to leave it all out on the course. That this was it.

I was sitting only midpack but I just needed to do whatever I could for a satisfying race and to say I left it all out there.Needless to say...I did leave it all out there. (Photo compliments of Janet Hill.) I had nothing left in me. Thanks to Becca Finley who took care of me after the race. She was amazing.After all the jazz, thrills, and pain were all passed it was time for the award ceremony. Stoked for Ashley for winning U23! And our team took 3rd.Needless to say our team is fairly motley...Still a great season. May not have been my most successful in results, but I am ready for a new year....a hard semester of school...very hard...but hopefully with some good time management skills I can get back on form since my crash and surgery.

Here's to 2010

LWC Cyclocross

2009-12-02T19:33:00.004-06:00

Post Race interviews...

Well. We had our regional cyclocross race the weekend before Thanksgiving here on campus.

I was dreading this race for some time. I was feeling miserably sick

Basically it went the same both days. Ashley took off at the start and on Saturday I had no desire to even think I could ever sit on her wheel. I was miserable with whatever weird sickness I had. I ended up 2nd for the day.

The next day I had a little more motivation knowing that I could survive the race sick. My plan was to hold onto Ashley's wheel off the start. Unfortunately, people got between us so I couldn't even give it an effort immediately. It threw off that intention but I had a much stronger race.

I felt better and enjoyed the pain a bit better. Another 2nd place finish.

Allie (our pro BMXer), me, Brooke Crum, and Ashley after our race.

...our post-race baked potatoe. Delicious.

Next up is nationals out in Bend, Oregon. U23 and Collegiate races.

See you out there!

Iceman

2009-11-09T10:30:00.003-06:00

The Iceman is always a good race to hit up. I love the atmosphere, the north, the race, everything. We had a good crew racing this year and really good representation in the Pro men and women's race.

Me and Andrea before our warm race

The race went decent. The start this year was on the road, and we had about 40 women racing. It got a little sketchy and after the first turn girls shuffled a bit and a small crashed happened. I got the back of the crash, luckily being okay I was up and trying to catch the gapped lead group.

The group had accelerated leaving me popped off the back. Probably where I would've been either way. But totes magotes, I had some great riding partners, including Michelle Peoriso who really got caught up in the crash and still did awesome to catch back up. She's awesome!

Claire showing me photos of the finish. She kicked ass in the singlespeed category! This course can be brutal at the end for SS.

Mom drove out to be my supporter and cheer for me. It was so good to see her again.

Props to Brian on a great race, and Dunlap and JHK with some prestigous wins. It was a great race with some great competition.

USGP #2 Louisville

2009-11-09T10:18:00.003-06:00

Another USGP down. A little bit of tendonitis in the knee is hurting things a little bit.

I had a great support crew, my friend from LWC, Samantha who loved me no matter how much ass kicking I would get.
Samantha plays for our volleyball team, hence the height and fitness.

One thing I have learned this cross season:

I have learned that Katie Compton and Katerina Nash don't care if I can ride a 30 foot rock wall. They will all still crush me to a point of complete misery.

No matter what skills I have, they don't help much when I don't have the legs to back them up.

Pit Crew.

Mountain Bike Nationals Photos

2009-10-28T20:37:00.004-05:00

Collegiate Mountain Bike Nationals. Lake Tahoe. California. Northstar Resort,

Cross Country start. Chloe Forsman with the big W. Madison Pitts and me during FourCross qualifying. Madison finished 3rd. Killer.

Top two advance. Didn't make the cut. Atleast made the qualifying cut.

Best finish all weekend : fourcross at 16th

Short track was an improvement by a few places from cross country

Attacked a small group too early.Waiting for our downhill runsBest downhill course I've ridden so far.

Walking the course a few days earlier.

Nationals was great and finish 8th in omnium. Maybe podium next year if I get my butt in shape.

MTB Nationals- Truckee, California

2009-10-16T23:41:00.003-05:00

(the downhill crew walking the dh course)

Brief update on mountain bike nationals in Truckee, California...

The views are beautiful. The courses are extreme. The team is great and the riding is amazing. All-around the trip has been so amazing. I cannot complain.

Today we race cross country which was about a 22mile race. It was won by Miss Chloe Forsman. The course was at about 7000 feet at Northstar resort in Cali. It started with the race through the village and then on to about 800 feet of climbing. After we got to about 4 miles of 800 feet of climbing there was 4 miles of 800 feet of descent. (roughly) I survived the 3 laps with 26th place.

We still have short track, 4cross, and downhill yet to race. The downhill course even hits snow it's up so high. It truly is amazing out here.

(playing chess in the village)

Nationals Bound - California

2009-10-14T13:34:00.002-05:00

We are on our way to nationals... currently in Las Vegas killing time...behaving...not getting married and not playing slots...Antarctica?Hoover DamLunch in the airport...

On our way to Lake Tahoe, California for Collegiate Mountain Bike Nationals soon.

Collegiate Conference Regionals

2009-10-14T13:09:00.005-05:00

So much has happened and I say this everytime, but I have severly slacked in updating at any effort. So right now is the perfect time for a quick recap.

We raced our collegiate regional race at Mizzou in Columbia, Missouri.

I was nervous and anxiety ridden going into the weekend. Which is pretty much how the entire season has been. A lack of confidence and it messes with my head. But I have been trying to channel that in a more positive way.

I went into the race weekend leading the conference but only by a small margin- mostly thanks to my gravity race results. I just needed to perform consistantly this weekend to hold that lead for the Conference win.

Cross Country = Win

Wow- pretty surprised and happy

Downhill was the same day as cross country and I had a great Giant Reign to ride for the race. We did 2 runs on an amazingly fun course. It was the best of 2 runs. My first run left me in 2nd place against my own teammate less than a second down. Second run I made up about 5 seconds off my first time to take the win.

Sunday short track...
a 3rd win. 3 for 3.

I had the conference locked if I finished slalom.

I struggled a bit in slalom and was no match formy competitors (my teammates who are BMX pros ) but they did awesome and I found myself with a 4th place finish.

Overall, 3 for 4 with a conference title.

Finally redemption after last year. Now we are off to California for mountain bike nationals in Lake Tahoe...

USGP #1 Planet Bike Cup

2009-09-29T23:43:00.004-05:00

Back up to Wisconsin for another race weekend. This time the USGP in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin.

Nothing like a nice and easy Pro race to start the cyclocross season off.

So at the startline I was staged next to Allison Dunlap. A dream come true perhaps, but it was at that moment when I looked around me and saw them all....Katerina Nash. Georgia Gould. Alison Sydor. Katie Compton. the list goes on...but I just knew this was probably the biggest race I have done to date.

The course was great and technical. Tight twisty turns with a nice set of barriers and a solid run up. The start was fast and I went out hard thinking I needed to stay in front of a certain group. I made it to the first set of barriers where me and Rebecca Cleveland were side by side. She had some seat slippage but it was a good person to by riding by.

The run up was a good twist to the fairly flat course, and definitely tired me out. I began to crack and lose my group- before I knew it I was toast.

While I survived the race with a low result: I was happy with the experience and motivation to get my act together for cross season and mountain bike nationals coming up.

The men's race was pretty sick watching Jeremy Power's with a win. Brian Matter had a pretty solid race and watching Erwin Vervecken who won the Sunday's race.

USGP #2 is on its way...

Cheq 40

2009-09-29T23:21:00.003-05:00

A few updates to make: so the next couple will be fairly short just to get them in.

Let's start with Chequamegon where I was place at about 1500 people back from the preferred starting positions...

None the less, I have bettered my time by almost 1 hour since my last Chequamegon.

An age group finish along with a 5th place in the Crit Cross made for a fairly successful weekend.

I was happy with the 15 hour drive up.

Miner's Revenge

2009-08-22T09:40:00.002-05:00

I really have not done well with keeping up on riding, racing, whatever may be on here. Back in July after I got back from Europe me, Andrea, and the guys from the shop did a great race up in Greenland, Michigan called the Miner's Revenge. We were required to have lights as part of the course went straight through the mine and it was pitch black in there. Check out the video at about 3:30 minutes in to see some riding in the mine by me and Andrea. I decided to sport a flannel for a lap, but it proved to be much too hot in the weather we had.It was a crazy technical course but it was such a great time. The mine was about 1 mile of riding? It was really cool, really rocky, and there was a point you had to get off an walk because it was too low to ride a bike through.

The climbs were grueling and left me in a good amount of pain as Andrea was ahead of me...too far to even chase.

I looked like a spooked animal with my Topeak Moonshine headlamp on.

Overall- it was a great day! Andrea won and I came in 3rd. For a little bit of prize we got some rock from the mine with copper embedded in it. It may sound a bit off but it was really actually sweet.

Back in Kentucky

2009-08-18T13:52:00.004-05:00

This is what happens when the Welsh and the Aussie soccer players get ahold of your spandex...and helmet...and they find a guitar...

Ore 2 Shore

2009-08-18T13:47:00.002-05:00

I felt pretty solid at Ore to Shore. Unfortunately they categorized me in the male division, but I guess I did alright as a 20-24 year old male.

In reality I should've hit the podium behind Holly Liske but never protested as I rushed home after the race to pack and move my belongings to Kentucky the next morning.I ended up with a time that was significantly faster than any time I have posted for Ore to Shore. I think it was a number of things that contributed to this- I believe a lot of it was my consistancy and focus that TJ helped me with- and it was also the solid conditions of the course.

I am happy I went up there and am finally getting back into season.

Stay tuned for more riding and living updates!

Time

2009-07-29T12:42:00.007-05:00

Wow- time has flown by- and I have done no updating of my blog...

I have been crazy busy with working at Bikes-n-Boards and trying to get in good riding. With taking some time away from WORS I have been able to refocus a bit and enjoy my own riding and why I truly like riding.

Europe was wonderful- I thought I would throw up a quick photo story here just to update a little bit.

WIMBLEDON

Stonehenge and Bath, England

Public Enemies: London, UK Premiere

Marion Cotillard and Director Michael Mann

Johnny Depp

Beautiful Paris

Last couple days in England

Congrats

2009-07-01T03:24:00.001-05:00

Shout out to this guy who just got a new little girl. Congrats Tristan and Jamie!

Paris: I went to the Louvre and all I did was Climb Shit

2009-06-22T03:30:00.003-05:00

Paris has come and gone. It seems like yesterday I was just contemplating even possibly going. So for the fact that it already has happened is unfathomable.

It was a wonderful time, and here are some photo teasers to get you started. I will add some more a little later once I have some down time...That seems like never! I always seem to be on the go, but never rushed.

Big Ring Classic

2009-06-15T16:58:00.006-05:00

Wow do I feel ridiculous. Wouldn't it be good to put a race update up from my last race? Especially since I had a pretty good time there? I'd say we are all ready for the Big Ring Classic update!So I will cut more to the chase. After an evening of a downpour, we were ready for the chilly 28-ish mile race head of us. I wasn't sure how I'd fair. I had been training, but it didn't show at Rhinelander...I was pretty disappointed with that. My main goal was to stick with a good train at the beginning. I sat on Holly's wheel until the singletrack when Comp guys rolled in to break it up.Before half way I decided to face plant pretty hard. Therefore bending my handlebars a few degrees off. I was going to stop to attempt to straighten but decided to race as much and as long as possible. At this point I was sitting 6 or 7th throughout the second lap.
The third lap came, I just wanted to maintain my position. About 3 women got me right in the last lap as I just started to lose a little bit of strength.

Nonetheless...I finished...not last...and not second to last! I was very proud to have a little more of a satisfying result. Not quite where I'd like to be but its an improvement.

I hope with some good riding in I should be able to maintain that power a bit more. Still no podium close, but I'm creepin closer... Thanks for the support from those who have been giving it. I'm glad I've got friends like I do mountain biking that I can't find in Kentucky. Thanks!

Photography skills by the talented riders and photographers, Brittany Nigh and Christine Czarnecki!

Richmond and Hyde Park

2009-06-14T16:17:00.005-05:00

Today was a great great day. I had such a blast today and there wasn't too much that went on! The girls and I decided to do a picnic lunch at Hyde Park today It was a great sunny day. Definitely need to stay hydrated over here!

It was fun to go out with all the girls again. We all picked some food up to pass from the grocery store...including some NUTELLA which is packaged very large over here! Glorious day.

Sara has been such a great person over here. She has been super fun, and I'm super excited that I get to go to Paris with her this weekend!

Food.And yet again at Hyde Park and the Prince Albert Memorial Monument.Later on I decided to do an excursion. Hope I don't die and hope I make it back. It was a little risky, but I am so happy I did it. I did a search for Richmond Park, which is where I told the best road riding in London was.After some searching and a short 5 mile ride from my studio apartment, I found it at Roehampton Gate.

This park has 2500 acres of land and wildlife everywhere! It was so amazing. I didn't feel like I was in London, I felt like I was in a safari or something.

Some beautiful scenery on my ride.

Some deer.

Don't worry, the roads are indeed paved.

Some public restrooms within the park. So cute! Who knew toilets would be so attractive?

There were cyclists everywhere. I could easily hop on a train or relax to get in a great workout. It was like a group ride everywhere I looked!

Tomorrow is my first day of classes so I just hope I can make it through that! The students seem pretty smart here. I was even told Imperial College (where I go), is like the MIT of England...Great!

Until next time! Cheers!

Portobello Market and Kensington Palace

2009-06-13T17:27:00.006-05:00

These first two pictures are from yesterday's tour. I just like the fact that I can make any respectable photo pretty vulgar.

I am here with a Yeoman guard and a knight...

Today was pretty cool. We went and checked out the Portobello Market in Nottinghill. Very awesome. Great stuff there too! New, used, old, all of the above.

We even got to use the "Tube."

It gave me a chance to find some really cool things....

Afterwards I finally got my bike and got it dialed in. I then rolled up to Hyde Park where Kensington Palace is, rode a bit then checked out the palace. It was great.

Spent some time on the steps of Prince Albert's Monument/Memorial.

After the day we hit up Oneill's for some brewskies. I actually enjoyed the Guiness and StrongBow.

The Official Tour: Day 3

2009-06-12T14:29:00.005-05:00

Today was our big bus tour in London. The double-decker was pretty sweet, weather was great, and London would soon be dominated.In front of my flat/apartment.We then got to go check out Buckingham Palace. It was awesome. This is a fountain there. These girls I just met basically yesterday or so. Great ladies!

Buckingham Palace. Good afternoon, Prince William.

I also have learned to shoot a medieval crossbow. Watch out people!

This is at the Tower of London. It was amazing there. I was having some issues with my tendons in my ankle again so I have been troubles walking. Which sucks terribly. All day today my ankle throbbed, but I couldn't let it stop me from just enjoying the country!

We then took a boat river tour too.

It led us into the Tower Bridge (aka London Bridge).

Oh, and Big Ben!

Hi Big Ben!

Sara and Sarah. We be going to Paris next weekend

London by foot

2009-06-11T15:33:00.007-05:00

Navigating London has been much better as time goes on. It's fairly easy to get around!

I do my grocery shopping here at Sainsbury's which is actually pretty nice.

I have also never seen so many sizes of Nutella. The regular size is off to the size, but the big one is HUGE!

A bunch of us decided to go hit up the town, and fit 5 of us in the telephone booth. I know we could've fit more!

The Prince Albert MonumentStanding in front of Harold's. Harold's was like a department store on steroids! They sold puppies for like 1500 pounds. They even had some of the top designers in the world: Versace, Dior, Valentino, Rock & Republic!

Finding some Rock & Republic jeans made my heart flutter...

The Galliano displays were really kind of neat, using handle bars for the hanging of the garments along with a bicycle seat for the brand.

The shoe show room in Harold's.
I believe these shoes were only made special order. Could not be purchased on the spot and had no price.

Hit up the Cafe' for lunch and some paninis.

Sara, Sarah, and me, Sarah...

Me and Sarah in front of Holy Trinity Brompton church grounds

Some more London neighborhood

And some more.

London Begins

2009-06-10T13:52:00.004-05:00

Virgin Atlantic flight from Ohare to Heathrow.Took 8 hours on the flight, not horrible.Vegetarian Risotto for dinner. My mode of transportation from the airport to my flat, or my "apartment."
First day I got to take in the real London life, especially the iconic telephone booths.

Then my first meal was espresso, along with some fish and chips in the local pub. Delicious.

Here are my flatmates. Which are also called as "roommates." Three of us are named Sara(h).

Oh, and Huey made the trip too. Here he is in his photo-op at the famous Hyde Park!

Day 1 in London. Complete.

WORS Rhinelander

2009-06-02T17:38:00.003-05:00

Conclusion at the Beginning: Camp Tesomas Boy Scout Camp has stolen my soul...they have cracked me.

It all went down the drain this weekend...my competitive drive was not there and neither were any form of legs. The night after the race I had a dream that I had surgery on both legs and couldn't walk. I was rocked.

The course whooped me as did the field of women. Was it the course or am I really that far off from being in shape?

It surely is a mystery to me, and while I figure out what all went wrong I am planning for my next race in Wausau. After Rhinelander I questioned whether to put more demoralization in the works. I decided why not??

The start of the race was decent. I sat about 8th or 9th for a little while. Riding fairly smoothly. But like 99% of the times on this course, I then went backwards.

I lost all contact. And soon myself questioning if I could continue another 11 mile lap. With some encouragement from the supporters around me, and Ms Baranova, we finished the lap and enjoyed the ride together on and off with Christine.

That's the thing, the women are all so supportive and have a respect for you regardless of if you are at the front or the back. I respect them just for that.

Congrats to Brian on his win and Andrea for 3rd in the women's field. Awesome to see them on top.

Red Sox

2009-05-26T11:57:00.003-05:00

So as a guilty pleasure, I am a huge Red Sox fan.

Was able to go to the Metrodome for Memorial Day and spend the day watching some All-American baseball with the boys.

Was a great day with a win

RASTA Rally

2009-05-26T11:55:00.001-05:00

I survived! Led for about 5 miles, then went backwards a bit.

Finished 4th.

Satisfaction.

WORS Race this weekened. Anyone need a place to stay? I live 15 minutes away from the race course. Give me a shout if so.

715.617.2741

Travelling Back North and WORS

2009-05-21T12:17:00.003-05:00

Finally I decided to make the travels home. Leaving warm and sunny Kentucky behind.

After a nice hike to the point and a jump in the lake, it was decided to leave Kentucky that evening at 10pm and drive straight through to Sheboygan...

Chicago has a pretty neat sunrise too. It was fun driving through there at about 5 in the morning.

Finally rolled into Sheboygan at 7am and off to bed.

Sheboygan was great, getting to spend some time at Lake Michigan, checking out the new shop, and riding some mountain bikes.

Finally after a few days at the Nagode household and some fabulous meals, I decided to make the journey north. I ran into a WORS race where I burned my lungs and my vocal cords doing some announcing and calling up awards.

Next up: Possible RASTA Rally and WORS Rhinelander as I finalize for my trip to Europe in 2 weeks....

When does it end...

2009-05-09T23:54:00.002-05:00

When I think I am ready, I get dished more. After a good crash in my last crit, I fractured the ole hip to put it simply. It's not severe, and my MRI showed some things but all in all I will heal without surgery.In turn, I was unable to go to Road Nationals in Colorado this weekend...A little hard to swallow. I am just getting back on the bike, I will be at Iola, but racing will come in due time.I did get to spend time with my friends and be there for them as they graduate from LWC.
Mom even came down to support.

It'll be hard for me to leave here. I'm definitely getting much more at ease down here beyond biking, but just a part of living.

Are me and Wisconsin on the verge of breaking up??

Old and Broken

2009-04-18T23:08:00.004-05:00

As I sit here working in the dorms on campus til 2AM, I felt it necessary to update this blog of mine...Easter has come and gone...I colored eggs with my buds and tried to enjoy the Easter away from my family.
Dunken eggs...

Then last night was our Spring Formal was last night. Gave us an opportunity to chill and have a good time.

I also acquired some more roommates for the apartment, one being Kayla who's on the volleyball team...

and the other, Samantha, who is also on the volleyball team. 2009-2010 will be a good year...Maybe healthier?

Then came the big moment for me...my first race of 2009 and since the surgery.

The race was at Purdue/Marian. Purdue roadrace didn't treat me so well with a kicker of a hill that kicked my butt...

Was able to finish, and didn't finish last either. I was stoked about that.

But then the crit was a different story...rainy...wet...slick but fun course...Was following Ashley's wheel, when she went down in a turn and I had no other option but to follow her action and eat crap as well.. Finished the race about 10th, which put me at about midpack. I was pretty happy with that finish...

Little did I know I'd be feeling the aftermath in my shoulder and hip a week or 2 later...

I am trying to recover with numerous doctor visits trying to figure out why my body just won't work anymore. It's a bit stressful and frustrating, but I am just hoping I can get back on the bike soon...

Ankle Update

2009-03-15T10:15:00.003-05:00

There has already been 2 weekends of road racing for the MWCCC scene, and I have been able to check out both. Not necessarily race though.

The team really has been steeping up and already giving a name for themselves against the teams that didn't think we had a road program.

Murray State was our first race. Wasn't able to do too much, as I was still basically on crutches and not walking. But luckily, Weston Pope brought out his BMX bike which allowed for me to scooter around comfortably.

I then slowly got off of the crutches and....annnnd....found myself on my first bike ride! I went to visit the doctor, and gave me permission to try short rides, roughly 5 miles.

I was really feeling good. There was a stiff, unbalanced-ness to my left side, along with a nasty pressure of where the surgery was done. It was just nice to get back out, even though any time I needed to stop, I couldn't guarantee I could unclip my left leg.

Then, a day after my first ride was another collegiate race in Indiana at Depauw University. The road race was Saturday, so I brought my bike and did a little spinning around on the gorgeous 70 degree sunny, yet windy day. I road the course backwards about two times. After that, there was a TTT at about 5pm. It was only 5 miles long, so I decided to join in just so we had enough to finish the race, enough to get some points for the team, regardless that we came in last.

So that Saturday was very rough on my ankle, leaving me to watch with a very sore leg. It also left me back at school with a sore, bleeding wound. I have been off the bike since that weekend since I have pushed the healing back. The ankle itself is doing great, but the incision is doing rough.

I go to the athletic trainer everyday where they work on my leg. The incision is having some difficulty healing, and may need some more stitched. We will just look at it this next week, and see if stitches are necessary. The oozing bloody mess has been no fun.

I get E-Stem therapy done pretty much everyday I go in. Which sometimes feels great, and sometimes feels pretty nasty. E-Stem, in a short way, is a form of therapy that basically uses electrical stimulation of the muscles to work the muscles in the ankle/leg. Once my incision is a little more cleared up, I will use ultrasound therapy on the actual tendon to help heal that.

So, Spring Break week is now. Everyone has left to go riding in warmer climates and enjoy some on the bike time. I am a little held back so I am staying pretty much in Kentucky to chill, catch up on school work, and maybe, just maybe get back on the bike.

I am walking comfortably, I walk without the boot cast, and have been working my range of motion to the point I have very little limp.

For Sale

2009-03-13T14:39:00.001-05:00

For Sale: Selle Italia Saddle off of my Orbea

Happy bidding

Update

2009-02-14T20:55:00.001-06:00

Ouch. Still can't walk. Still haven't started physical therapy. Tried spinning on the trainer - epic failure. But I feel myself slowly feeling better.

Surgery

2009-02-07T10:06:00.003-06:00

Surgery has come and gone and I lay here on the couch back in Kentucky with beautiful weather outside, trying not to fall into a state of depression. To keep myself occupied I will try and do whatever it takes, whatever crutches allow me to do... A simple "yes" is required on the leg/foot that is to be operated on. I can do that! An early morning drive to the hospital and I was off into surgery. The procedure wasn't too complicated, they would make in incision on the back of my heel, it's a little over an inch in length. They then chopped off some bone and cleaned up the debris around the achilles tendon and I was hopefully good. We don't know if it was a successful surgery. We will find out soon! I cannot wait to feel good again.

About 4 hours after arrival I finally was out of surgery and hopped up on pain medicine. It always puts me in such a friendly mood. But, it sure did hurt at the point in time.

This lady right here was great through all of my whining, crying, whatever it may be. Thanks mommy!
And many days are speant just like this. Actually, its a great picture of what I look like right now.

And nothing beats the aerial view of the Northwoods in its beautiful state-of-mind, Winter.

Frozen Tundra

2009-02-01T14:41:00.002-06:00

Left for Louisville at some insane hour so I could catch my early houred flight. I think I left at 2am? I had been up since 5am the morning before for weightlifting, so I was ready to crash at that point.After about a 30 min delay because of ice, we finally were off.
Once I hit St. Paul it was time to transfer to my mini private jet...something like that....

That's when I realized not many people travel to the frozen tundra. Reminder: I was the in the very back row of my flight. No one was behind me.

Well, I am up here chilling, painting, school work, just taking care of some business and then hopefully getting a little healthier in the process...I'll update after the surgery once I know more.

Back North

2009-01-30T05:36:00.003-06:00

I am quickly approaching my flight back home to the North.

I'll be home in my neck of the woods for a week getting some surgery done and recovering for the up coming race season. Sounds like plan, Stan!

Luckily, I have been able to get in some riding outside along with some fun trainer/roller time. Let's hope the training doesn't let up too much!

Da Nort Woods

2009-01-19T12:14:00.002-06:00

Things I like to do in da Nort.Snowmobile.

Hockey.

Beautiful ski views.

Skiiii.

Ski some.

Weather has been cold. -30s.

Kentucky. Snow. New Road bike. New year. New season.

Help Brian get to Worlds.

Tagged by Amanda

2009-01-02T20:09:00.003-06:00

Well- I normally don't do this stuff, but as I sit pretty bored in Kentucky in the evening since I can't ride right now I will fill this out...Oh yea, by the way, I am in Kentucky. I will put some pictures up soon-ish. Me and Ashley came down for New Year's and riding...

Amanda Miller tagged me on this one so I figure why not share a little bit of myself with you...

List 6 random things about yourself that most people do not know, then tag 6 more people and post their links:

1. I am an accounting major and don't even plan to take my CPA exam or become an accountant.

2. I was the captain of my soccer team in High School

3. I have a tattoo that I got with Ashley on Sweetest Day

4. I had an industrial ripped out of my ear at 2007 mtb nats

5. I am insane about caring for my teeth and occasionally have nightmares that things happen to them

6. I have Lyme's Disease

Cyclocross Nationals

2008-12-17T16:10:00.006-06:00

KCCX finally gave me something to smile about this year. Goal set from 2007 cyclocross nationals: podium in U23 this next year. It was a goal I was unsure if was reachable. I felt it was. With the help of TJ and the support at LWC, we finally made it happen.

The weather was beautiful for the weekend. I went into it feeling good and confident. Although, the start line looked stacked and intimidating.

Going off the line I was 3rd into the wholeshot behind Sam Schneider. A position I could not believe I was holding. Soon, Ashley came around me and I was sitting comfortably in 5th. Just in contention for the podium.

After a crash in the first lap, Danielle Haulman, a former CX national champ passed around me and I was then in 6th. I quickly got up and stuck on her wheel. I made a pass before the lap point on the asphalt. She stuck on my wheel and I was unsure of if there was going to be any tactics I'd have to worry about. I slowly pulled away and I decided to hit every climb hard. As she dropped back I slowly closed in on 4th place Sam Schneider. The closest gap I had on her I think was about 20 seconds.

Unable to close the gap, I was able to finish with a strong lead and the final spot on the podium

Maybe I had a tear come to my eye as I crossed the finish line...Ashley finished 3rd so me and her stood next to eachother on the podium. A great day for both of us.

Bjorn was able to pull off a 5th place finish in his U23 race as well.

The collegiate race was a little more rough on me. Maybe I had spent myself in the race the day before, maybe it was the 20 degree temperature drop on the start line before we went off and my lack of wearing a base layer, it could have been a million things. Those girls are strong.

I think I finished 15th and mid pack. Ashley hit the podium for a second time.

After that it was all super fan business...

And celebrating the off season.

The team LWC took 3rd to Lees Mcrae and Fort Lewis.

I just want to thank everyone who has and continues to support me. Gear Grinder, Hyundai, Lindsey Wilson, the team, the staff, Josh Nagode who prepped me the entire weekend, my family, and furthermore, my coach TJ. He made it happen after I snapped my chain on the start line last year for U23 and I told him, "I'm going to get it next year."

Brookside Indiana Cyclocross

2008-12-10T11:39:00.003-06:00

This weekend was a slightly impulsive trip for a final cyclocross race before nationals.Last one of the OVCX series. It was about 20 degrees and an icy course which led for great conditions.Me and Ashley decided to rock Filip's kits for his family, representing Brooklyn and Poland. We definitely fooled them by convincing everyone we were part of the Polish National Team. Surprise!It was an okay race. A good fast field for the women resulting in a little bit of pain.

I ended 7th with some motivation to push harder when I actually get to nationals. Cannot hold back like I do in these races. I finish them and have a good amount of breath left.

On the way back to campus definitely found some cheap gas. 1.39$$$. Sweet...

Race photos by Greg Sailor.

Storm the Greens Cyclocross

2008-12-02T09:47:00.002-06:00

Well- I decided to head up to Louisville for the Kentucky State Championships this past weekend. Storm the Greens.

It was pretty great weather. about 6C outside, but warm enough for bare legs, some leg balm, and no gloves!

The race was a blast. I decided to rock a little old PC-Dub action as my jersey for today, and passed on some more PC-Dub and Gear Grinder onto the unattached (aka, kenda rider) Ashley.
We are just trying to enjoy our cross time here in the series before heading to nationals.

The race was highly uneventful for me. Chilled. Tried to catch a girl in front of me. No dice.

We were inverted teammates.

Next up, possibly a race in Indy. Either that or just nationals in about a week and a half!

LWC Cyclocross

2008-11-24T14:11:00.004-06:00

So this past weekend our school hosted the cyclocross weekend, and also Regional Championships. I had been out sick for the collegiate cross season so I was making a debut coming back. I also was unsure how I'd be feeling since it wasn't too far back I had been puking my guts and sleeping 20 hours a day. I don't have any visuals of my race but I can tell a little bit about it. Saturday's race was a brutally hilly course. 1 run up, 2 stair cases, and one gnarly downhill. The downhill let across a concrete walkway where with about 5 laps to go, sitting in 2nd place, I decided to bomb the downhill uncontrollably, which therefore led into a sliding crash across the one piece of concrete in that section. My ass hurts...

So I finished 2nd to Miss James.

Here is the first concrete staircase with about 40 steps in the first race on Saturday. We showed our LWC pride with the homemade flag created the day before. Very proud.
Sunday's race was good. LWC had a dominating field in the men's and women's. Women there was ONLY LWC riders. Ha. So my race was alright. Finished second, behind James again who flatted and almost gave me an opportunity to catch her, but she maintained a good pace afterwards and held the gap. Oh well, I tried, I'll take it.

The sand pit that Peter Smith jumped into everytime...

The money preems...

Clayton Omer and Danny Estevez went 1, 2, in both races.

LWC, Bitches.

After a long weekend of hard work it was time to hit up the cafeteria.

Next up...Storm the Greens in Louisville? Jingle Cross in Iowa? Nationals? Something like that.

LWC Jerseys For Sale

2008-11-16T16:39:00.002-06:00

So with the original designs of Sarah Lukas, we are selling our designs to you guys. If anyone is interested in anything from our college, just let me know and I will ship the jerseys out to you. Here are pictures and lists and prices of what we have for offer. Hope you guys are interested!

Short Sleeve Jerseys - $45
Cycling Shorts - $60
Long Sleeve Jerseys - $52
LWC Windbreaker Jackets - $50
LWC Windbreaker Vests - $43
BMX Jerseys - $50
Fleece Arm Warmers - $20
LWC Cyling Gloves - $17
LWC Socks - $5.95
LWC Shoe Covers - $18

Get ahold of me!
lukas_sarah@hotmail.com

Iceman Cometh

2008-11-15T09:59:00.005-06:00

So I was headed up nort' for the weekend and not so sure if I wanted to leave Kentucky...

...I was leaving beautiful 80 degree weather...

Not that the beaches of Michigan were going to be that bad...but it was a little chillier than my liking. It was another year for Iceman, first year racing with the big girls...coming off a week of not even touching my bike, this was going to be really interesting.

I didn't have much of a game plan...hang on Heather's wheel? Okay, maybe. So I threw some atomic balm on my legs and decided to be one of the few...okay the only one in the women's field to run it bare legged. I was just feeling ambitious (or stupid).The line up didn't give me too many nerves. Sometimes it gets to the point where I know I have a lot of control out of my hands I don't get as nervous. But when the race is actually something that might be big for me that's when you know something is on the line.
The race was tough. I struggled and I did die at the end...somehow by just "chillin" the last leg of the race due to lack of being able to go hard, I still managed to better my time from last year by over 5 minutes. So that was the only thing that really stoked me on my race. It was tough, cold, and Iceman.

A sick top 3 men's finish of Jeremiah Bishop, B-Matter , and Michael Anderson.

Regina, Don, and me after my race.
And a solid crew at the banquet.

Michelle Periso and I at the banquet
Then some delicious Mexican food to end the night...besides them all hitting up the Bell's Party of course.

Wait...I also so Riccardo Ricco there? What?? Just thought I'd share my secret life with you...

Yay for Iceman.

As for now...Been puking my guts out with this stupid Norovirus...No cross race for me this weekend...they left without me.

Trying to recover from a bummin' time.

Welcome, Obama

2008-11-05T10:13:00.001-06:00

President Obama was glad to pose for a couple photos with me and Ashley. What a good sport.Congrats bro.

Happy Halloween

2008-10-31T11:20:00.001-05:00

Be safe children

Mountain Bike Nationals

2008-10-27T17:45:00.009-05:00

With the uncertainty to whether or not my S-Works would hold up, I crossed my fingers for my Orbea to come. The day we left, Tuesday, it rolled in from UPS at 10am. Threw it together, took care of a little adversity that came along the way and got it up and running.

There is a whole lot of beauty to it.

So I am thinking of names for him. My roommate, Lindsey, suggested Pegasus.Loaded up the trailer Tuesday, and headed to Banner Elk, North Carolina for nationals. About 7 hours later we were there. Deer.We stayed right on Beech Mountain. And as you can see it is Eastern America's Highest Town at 5505 ft.Fred's. General. Store. Has. Everything. The view from our porch.

Prerode the course on Wednesday while the weather was still dry and warm. First time I ever rode while it was dry in Banner Elk.

The very talented LWC team.

After a nice preride we did some downhill practice, but then found ourselves racing soon on Friday. The rain came that morning and made every course for the rest of the weekend cold and wet. Thank you Mother Nature.

My xc race was okay. Had a good start but couldn't maintain the position because of slick terrain and my lack of skill. I ended up midpack to Clara Swart who won. Short track was Saturday morning. I finished about 17th or so, midpack yet again, but felt really good out there. I gave Ashley my starting spot because she had a much better chance at a great result. She finished 8th so the decision was well worth it.Downhill was a little nerveracking going into...but I was just ready to do what I could to make an attempt at a good time and a safe ride. The course is about 1.5 miles long down Sugar Mountain.I was able to cut off 2 minutes from my time from last year. Same course, very similar conditions. 11 minutes last year, 9 minutes this year. Winning time is about 5 minutes. Those women rip it.The 20 foot rock slab mid-course. Super sketchy wet, but very fun. Slalom was Sunday morning. The main event. What an event it was. Qualifying was first and they only took the top 16 women. I figured all I had to do was get down the run and not crash...I got to the last bermed jump and I crossed gates! Automatic disqualification! Cursing, the drop of a helmet, so much disappointment in myself.

I walked up to my coach and said, "Coach. I fucked up." I couldn't believe how stupid I had been. Luckily, multiple people had done the same thing. Afterwards, the officials taped off separate lanes to prevent this from happening. We then protested in an unfair advantage. We won the protest and had the option to rerun our qualifiers!

I was 3 seconds faster than my original run with a new time of 42 seconds. The leader was 39 seconds. I was sitting in 10th. I then was seeded in brackets.

My first run was against pro Sage Wilderman. So she does gravity now and then. Oh, did I mention she won the national Downhill the year before and took 2nd this year? Nonetheless, I was stoked to race against her. She bumped me out of contention, but I held onto the tenth place finish.

Our team took 4th with the lead teams being Lees-Mcrae, Colorado-Boulder, Fort Lewis, you know...I ended up 8th overall for omnium. Maybe in a year or two we can throw a podium in the mix.

Then, Weston Pope won his national championship for Dual Slalom.

I am beat......Time for a small break before Iceman and the cyclocross.

Fall Break

2008-10-22T00:49:00.005-05:00

So I had a week off before Mountain Bike Nationals that is currently happening, and I spent it lonely and at home while the family was out in California.Not having too much to do, the week consisted of cold weather riding and coffee shops before and after.

The colors of fall.

Then had a chance to tear Sebastian apart and give him a good cleaning before nationals. I wasn't sure if my new bike was going to come in on time, but it did....and Sebastian was torn apart for parts. O well, at least he was fixed up.Made a stop in Madison before we left for Kentucky...That was fun and painful.

Then in Lousiville we decided to play human tetrus by picking up 3 of our teammates from the Louisville Airport.

Trying to fit in 5 people's fall break luggage, along with a bike box and other junk, we only had one seat open for 3 people.

Luckily the trip back was only an hour and a half so 2 people sitting on one lap isn't that bad.

Purdue Regionals

2008-10-13T12:45:00.004-05:00

Regionals at Purdue University.

Saturday: Cross Country

Finish: 1st place

Sunday: Short Track

Finish: 3rd place

Slalom Race

Finish: Crashed out first run

Argh...

Fun weekend. And now I am back in Wisconsin for a full week!

Nationals are next week in North Carolina. Time to pin it!

Here is hopefully not what will happen in this year's downhill race at nationals. Not being able ti ride the grassy downhill because the mud slid you out. But what a blast it was.

Butler MTB Weekend

2008-10-11T14:56:00.004-05:00

Slacker of posting I am. This last weekend we went up to Indiana to Butler College for another bike race. My NEW bike did not come in yet so I scrapped together pieces (actually my mechanic Kip Spaude did) and rebuilt Sebastian and brought him to life. Thank you so much!

The XC race was on Saturday followed by Downhill a little later in the afternoon. I didn't feel too hot for the xc race. We started off Emily, Rachel, and me. Had a little group going, and then me and Rachel pulled away on the first lap. We then had a Marion rider, Becca, tag along for the ride. We stuck together for Lap 2/3 until Becca and Rachel left me in their dust. Feeling pretty bummed, I came through and Becca was about 45 seconds in front of me. I rode my final lap attacking every hill, mainly because I enjoyed it. And chilled the rest. Coming up on the final singletrack stretch before the finish I saw Becca. I attacked and passed her with about 1/4 of a mile left. Finish 2nd with Rachel in 1st.

We then had downhill a little after that. I was a little worried since I was just using Sherwood, my Specialized P3 = hardtail freeride bike. He worked like a champ. With excellent coaching from Charles Mooney who raced for Lindsey Wilson as an excellent gravity rider, he definitely gave me the confidence just to tackle the ride.

My run went very well, but I was going against National Podium-er, Jamie Bourgo, from Michigan Tech. I was very happy with the times I put out and even did my last run on a flat tire.

On Sunday we had Short track and mountain cross. Short track = more pain and 3rd place. Just had nothing in the tank.

Mountain cross on the bmx course was next. Qualified behind Bourgo again. She crashed in our first heat which knocked her out of the running. She more than likely would have been the first place contender over me.

(Qualifying Run...looking like a complete goober)

I then went on to win that event.

Obviously an exhausting weekend as we crammed into the van and people stole the camera to show the love.

This weekend is regionals at Purdue University in Lafayette, Indiana. Why you are all at She-Vegas living it up. But I do come home this next week after Purdue for fall break. I drove up to Purdue separate so then I can go straight home Sunday. Sweet deal, eh?

Jonathon Page UCI

2008-10-05T21:46:00.002-05:00

Glad to be on State Street again.
Ian's Pizza at 1am. Just rolling in from Kentucky and needed a snack.
Wisconsin!
The race itself for me sucked. Elicia made an appearance in the Gear Grinder kit which made me excited to see her.

I got rocked, safe enough to leave it at that. But I finished.
It honestly was just great to be back home around the people I love.

Lindsey Wilson MTB race

2008-09-21T13:06:00.005-05:00

This weekend our school hosted the Collegiate race. I was pretty excited since Dallas Fowler and some other Wisconsin riders came down. (Excluding Tim Drankus who wussed out...) I was able to borrow Dallas's Big Sur for the weekend and enjoyed every minute of it.

Short track was on Saturday. It was a little tough but a fun course. Ashley beat me for 1st place and I rolled in between the huge gap for 2nd. She just used those roadie skills and capitalized on it.

Dual slalom was after, and qualifying was a breeze. I got the best time so therefore was seeded first.

I had a "bye" for my first round. When the finals came around it was me against me teammate. Not wanting to do anything stupid I just rode my race and tried not to get too zealous, which I tend to do. I rolled in for 1st in slalom.

Finally, today was the kicker. It was the first cross country race I have done SINCE KEWASKUM...shhiiiyyyyttt. It was good. Started off the line steady, was able to make it into the woods first. After that I never saw anyone. It was good. After I went hard up some hills and lost the group, I just finished my race smoothly, once again not wanting to blow up or risk injury. It was a super chill race, which made it fun. I also got 1st for the xc race.

To round up the weekend, I was pleased. Aren't I always? My new bike should be coming soon.....

Next weekend I will be heading back to the homeland of Wisconsin for some UCI action...Thank you Jonathon Page.

Loveland Cyclocross

2008-09-17T22:03:00.007-05:00

Last weekend I bugged out on Chequamegon. The trip would have been insanely long and gas prices were shooting well above $5 down here because of Hurricane Ike.

I decided to do some travelling to Ohio and do a cyclocross race. Very early to be doing cyclocross but what the heck. Time to start getting used to the new bike.
So a little speed bump came along in our night before the rave. Me, Ashley, and Zach decided just to camp at the race course which was a public park. We set up our tent by the already marked pits on the race course and went to bed.
At about 2am the cops weren't having that. They saw the marked course of caution tape and thought we had vandalized the course. Yea, go figure. After we explained the situation to him, the cop took our IDs and put us in the system. It probably didn't help that Zach was Canadian and didn't have a social security number...It took awhile to straighten everything out.
During the wait of being put into the system the cop told us to pack it up.
He then let us go and escorted us to a hotel. Thanks....After a nice night of sleep, we were up for the race. We headed back to the scene of the crime and started getting ready. I scarffed down some chicken and rice before the race. A beautiful day turned into 70 mph winds and tornadoes not too far from us. My race was rough. I took 10th in the Women 1/2's. Ashley absolutely slaughtered the field and won it. Congrats to her. Maybe she can teach me her ways. I was just exhausted and didn't have it. The one thing I was super happy with was my barrier dismounts and remounts.
The rest of the day after my painfully embarrassing race was spent taking pictures and cheering on the people I know...
...and fixing the barriers that people kept running into.

Overall it was a great weekend. Even though I sucked it up, I was satisfied with our adventures and look forward to the mountain bike race this weekend, and then the UCI race in Madison the next. Hopefully I will pull it together by then.

University of Illinois

2008-09-08T23:28:00.006-05:00

This weekend quite possibly was my breaking point. It was a very rough weekend both emotionally and physically. Let me begin with Saturday.The bike had been fixed by Mr. Skiles Keith and it was running well prior to the race. I warmed up on the bike and did some sprint leg openers and there wasn't too much sign of distress. But with the luck of my season, why would I expect much to change at this point. At the start line I was ready to rock. About 200 yards off the start line my derailluer snapped so bad that it flung into my rear wheel, puncturing my tire and giving me a flat, along with a broken bike.
After some anger was let out, and about 20 minutes passed, I took a teammates cyclocross bike and swapped it in hopes to do 20 miles on a mountain bike course for some points. After 10 miles my body was trashed and I dnf-ed...again...I had hit an all time low, and an all time depression.

Short track was the next day. I had a great guy, Clayton Omer, lend me his 20" Orbea Alma Carbon bike to race on. What an awesome bike it was. Me and Ashley pulled away from the field and took turns pulling. She was on a cross bike. The race was very consistent as we began to lap the field. We rode very strong and very steady.In the end, I was able to pull of a win in the sprint finish, but would not have achieved that win without the help of Ashley. So she is my superstar of the week.
So I accomplished a victory finally, and it felt so great. Now I am figuring out a new bike in the realization that I am pretty sure my chain stays are bent or my dropouts. I am still working on that one. But I have a couple bikes in mind, and a couple student loan agencies to go through....
I am ready to take some steps forward in my life...

I just decided to skip Chequamegon this year. Good luck to you who all race! I will be missing it.

Mizzou Collegiate Opener

2008-09-03T09:56:00.003-05:00

The first season race of the year. The unveiling of the new kits that I helped to create. You better like the plaid/BMC style look.

The cross country race was on Saturday. I had no idea what to expect my competition to be like or where my fitness level to be in comparison. It has been such a long journey since last year, while I continue to lay high expectations upon myself, I don't always expect to live up to them.

The course in Missouri is really fun and fast. We also had to gorge a river by paddle...atleast I felt I needed one. I was able to pull off the front off the start line and get a commendable lead. By the time I was lapping through for lap 2 I had over a minute gap on the 2nd place woman. She used to whomp on me last year.

My adrenaline was cruising up until the point when I nailed a solid rock with my tubeless and popped the tired off. Damn flat. With unsufficient equipment to fix it and a faulty valve, I dnf-ed the race and watched my competition go by as I walked back to the start venue. It was tough to swallow as I lost the first win that I could have had on a mountain bike.

Sunday was then my point of redemption in the short track race. I looked forward to the brutal course that was about to conquer me. I started off with a little bit of shifting problems going up the hill and found myself in last. As I cruised up the steepest and loosest hill, I captured my lead.

The course was working into my favor as I began to lap the field. It wasn't until I could feel the victory when Sebastian began to get fiesty again. The shifting was skipping and as I looked down to see my rear derailluer, I then noticed it fly off the bike. In complete anger, frustration, sadness, and worried that I will have to spend 300$$ on a new XTR, I got off the bike, slammed it down and just walked into the woods. I couldn't believe what just happened.

My 2nd possible victory opportunity....SLASHED.

What was left now was my dual slalom race. I had crashed in my qualifying run, but it still seeded me 2nd on the bracket.

I made it past my first rounds against Shannon Miller from Mizzou.

I then proceeded to the finals against Sam, my teammate, who podiumed last year at nationals, and she took me down. So I was able to get one finish in this weekend, and it was a 2nd place in slalom.

Overall, I had a pretty emotionally rough weekend not being able to acheive what I set forth to do. I feel JHK when he said about his season "when it rains, it pours." It sums up the season I have had, both in road, WORS, and now beginning in collegiate.

This next weekend I head up to Illinois for possible redempetion, or possible to get defeated by our new star on the team Ashley James, and lose out on my only victories I had a chance at. I'm bummin' right now.

Mammoth Caves

2008-08-18T10:09:00.003-05:00

So me and the Residenc Life Group went to the Mammoth Caves for a camping trip late last week.

Being moved down to Kentucky I have been so busy, it is unbelievable. I barely had time to fit in bike rides. Not because I was just tired from the busy schedule, but because it was like a 20 hour gig a day!

Luckily, I was able to get in some solid training down at the camp on the tandem.

Then, we finished the trip with a lantern tour in the caves where our only illumination was the lanterns.

Kewaskum Hurt Fest

2008-08-13T07:24:00.003-05:00

So here is the great race report from the day after Ore to Shore. I hate to say it but it was one rough race for me. My worst WORS results this year. Nothing like ending my WORS season with a bang huh?

Chloe came out to race, I think her last debut was Wausau of '06 which I volunteered at due to my Lyme's, mono, strep trifecta. Unfortunately, the grueling course the day before didn't help her bike any and she dnf-ed with a seized hub.

I really don't want to go lap by lap relaying for you, but the morning of the race was a little nerve racking. Leaky brakes led to a quick bleeding by TJ, who honestly has been an amazing coach. After some minor adjustments I had done just about all I could to the bike. The shifting was a little stiff and seizable, but nothing I could do.

My race was very similar every lap. I lacked intensity. I lacked acceleration, jump, and maybe some motivation. Which I don't think was a bad thing. I knew off the start line that when I was unable to hold Claire, Lindsey, or Lisa's wheel, that it wasn't my day. I generally can, and the course would have been perfect to do so.

It slowly came down to every woman who passed me I just let go. I didn't even make an attempt to grab a wheel. (I also heard I wasn't the only one not too into the race)

Oh, and many people were asking and wondering, this is NOT our team skinsuits...I know we all want one but this is a special occasion I think.

But I finished, and I didn't want to. I got a good double weekend in.

I'm in Kentucky now.

Ore to Shore

2008-08-10T10:28:00.003-05:00

Raced Ore to Shore yesterday which was pretty solid.

While I love Marquette dearly, I always say how much I love Ore to Shore, but then when I do the race I forget where I ever came up with that. It wasn't terrible this year, my goals were to get top 10 and better my 3:58 time.

The morning was rainy, a little cool, but mainly very wet...How would this sandy course respond?

Well, I sat about 12th the entire race after I made an attack about 20 miles to go on a group of 4 women. It was successful as I had lost sight of them without having to turn myself inside out in the attack. Unfortunately with all the puddles it created the nastiest chain suck when I was really grind to go up hills. It would jam and I'd be stuck. The group caught and went away with about 8 miles left. I was unable to grab a wheel.

So I was bummed about that, but I finished 17th, one better than last year, with a time of about 3:31, so much better than last year.

Let's see if I can survive Kewaskum and then a 10 hour drive to Kentucky.

Moving Out

2008-08-10T08:42:00.003-05:00

So the week leading up to the Ore to Shore/Kewaskum extravaganza has been hectic and even stressful for me.It has been all about packing up for the 5 months in Kentucky before the next time I come home; more than likely. With work, biking, and everything else, it was hard to focus on the move.

I went out kayaking one beautiful evening which was a nice break from the hectic monotany. I hadn't been out at all this year so I was very glad to have fit it in!

The night was beautiful and I saw some great things. It's weird to live right on the river like this and sometimes forget its beauty. Usually in the summer we spend a lot of time down at the river, but this had been the first time I put my toes in its water all summer.

I really hope that once I get to school things will slow down a bit and I will have a chance to breath. I know that sounds oxymoronic, but I felt busier in the summer than I had last school year. So other than that, it is off to Ore to Shore on Saturday for a nice 48 mile jaunt around a few towns -mountain bike race, and then a 5 hour drive to Kewaskum for a nice 20 mile mountain bike race. What better?