Tag Archives: lone star randonneurs

Ride Review for Lone Star Randonneurs’ OK is OK 309 km Brevet

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At the end of 2011 I joined Lone Star Randonneurs to ride with them on some of their longer rides. First up for 2012 was the OK is OK 309 km Brevet. Going 300 km was a goal of mine so I jumped at the chance when this ride was announced.

The Good

The Lone Star Randonneurs get on with it. The forecast called for a stiff headwind for the first half of the day as we headed north and a stiff headwind for the second half of the day as we would be heading back south. There was discussion about the weather and everyone knew the conditions would make the ride tougher. Many cyclists would have caved rather than suffer through 192 miles/309 km of headwind. Not this gang.

The route, picked out by George Evans, was fantastic. Quiet, scenic country roads. About 4,200 feet of climbing, mainly rollers but with a few slightly longer climbs in there as well. The well detailed cue sheet made following the route easy.

Barn in Wolfe City, Texas  Read more... (737 words, 2 images)

Update on Goals

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With 4,580 miles under my belt so far year to date, I am quickly rounding in on the 5,000 mile goal I set for myself at the start of 2011.  Giddy up!

My application (and check) are in for Lone Star Randonneurs and I’m riding about 125 miles per week getting ready for a 300k ride in February or March.  Every time I think about the 100 mile rides I’ve done I realize 300k (~184 miles) is really freakin’ far.  I’m looking forward to meeting these randonneurs and getting out on the road with them.  I have a lot to learn.

 

 

 

Next Goal: Finish a 300 Kilometer Ride

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I have decided that for my next goal I will go for distance.  The longest ride I have done is 103.7 miles.  I’ve been inspired by the guys that ride Race Across America and the Paris-Brest-Paris and I’ve decided I’m going to add some ultra endurance events to my list of goals.

With that in mind, my next goal is to finish a 300 kilometer ride.  300k works out to 186.4 miles.  Freakin’ far!

I’m going to join Lone Star Randonneurs ( http://www.lonestarrandon.org/ ) as they organize these long distance rides on a pretty regular basis.  The calendar isn’t out for 2012 yet, but I’m aiming to tackle this goal in January or February.

One of the cool things about the randonneurs is that the riders are self supported.  Bring your own lights, carry your layers of clothes, handle your own mechanicals, find your own food and drink.  No neutral wheels.  No cars with food and fluids.  No wrench to help you out with a mechanical.  Extreme distance meets extreme self reliance.  I like it!  Read more... (224 words)