Written by Tiny Dancer and Baby Gorilla.
Stats by Raymondo 'Under the Radar' Smith
Course:Port Wakefield to Glenelg (Adelaide)
Distance: 114km
Ride Time:3 hours 51 min
Average speed:29.7km
Metres climbed:137 metres
Temperature min:7 degrees
Temperature max:29 degrees
Wind direction:Light North Easterly not really there to be recognised in any form of assistance
Tiny Dancer Stats: Day 15
Average heart rate: 106 BPM
Max heart rate: 173 BPM
Average cadence: 88 RPM
Stats for the Tour
Course:Esperance (Western Australia) – Glenelg (Adelaide South Australia)
Distance: 2532.32km
Ride Time:91hours 19min 21secs
Average speed:27.7km
Metres climbed:8329 metres
Temperature min:5 degrees
Temperature max:36 degrees
Maximum Speed: 72.8km
Maximum Distance: 236km
Wind direction: Every conceivable direction in a 360 ͦ
Total distance heading in a Northerly direction: 548km
Total distance heading in a Southerly direction: 779km
Total distance heading in a Easterly direction: 1205.32km
Total distance heading in a Westerly direction: A big fat zero
Days into Headwinds: 5
Days with Tailwinds: 5
Days accumulated with Crosswinds: 5
Ray’s Total Calories: 98007 (without a heart monitor connected)
Road Kill Count by Mel, Rusty, Ray & Baby G.
4 x Skippy’s 3 x Snakes 9 x Shingle Back Lizards 2 x Crows
Nothing: A Caravan Park with nothing in a town with nothing with nothing to do there.
Well that was the official word over the phone that Captain Kev received as he phoned ahead for accommodation last night into Port Wakefield. Needless to say his reporting of our planned accommodation that night created a rather sombre mood amongst the troops. There we were, about to embark on the last 60 km riding into the last night prior to our final day of this epic journey with the news we were heading to absolutely nothing. Upon arrival we were pleasantly surprised to find well, everything. A town, houses, pubs, shops and a caravan park with everything.
It seems that Captain Kev’s voice sounded like a ’Bandido’s’ biker, after shouting repeatedly at cyclists during the challenge and 7 in 7 rides, along with the failure to explain we were arriving on push bikes not harley’s, convinced the council staffed caravan park to downright lie to him.
An early Start on this the final day.
Day 15 commenced early as we had a timetable to keep so as to arrive on time at the Sip and Save LMG cellars in North Glenelg on time at 12 midday. So it was up at 5am, out of swags, hot showers for some and a quick breakfast and pack up. It was a cold roll out and after a ring of the cow bell by none other than the ‘Shark’, we were on a way for the final day.
There was a very casual pace set along the A1 rolling towards Adelaide the usual yellow room at around 20km. There were some delightful agricultural themed fragrances in the air enough to stimulate the olfactory senses of this grupetto anyway. So it was a steady roll on to our morning tea at Lower Light at the lovely’s Tracy's Diner with the giant sun drenched windows warming us up as the counter was manned by the delightful and chipper Tracy. It was here that a peculiar raft of events were to unfold.
Firstly we met a trucker who was labelled ‘a complete knob head’ by an anonymous member of the crew. It seems that he disliked cyclists because they only travel at 10 km per hour and that holds him up. It was only after his exit that we all realised he was the actual first competitor in ‘Australia’s Trucker Biggest Loser 2012 Series’ as his fellow 7 Truck Driving competitors arrived during the following 30 minutes. There was also a surprise delivery of fresh bread by a retired member of the ZZZ TOP band.
Rusty serves a great coffee
The biggest surprise of the morning was however reserved when the lovely Tracy invited our own Rusty Carbo Balls, the travelling lycra clad barista, to assist her with the preparation of not only our coffee orders but also those of a travelling couple who arrived during our stay. With Kevy performing a wonderful job as the waitress our meals and coffees both arrived on time and were of a very high standard.
The traveling couple Barbara, a cancer survivor herself and husband John gave rusty 8/10 for the cappu-latte, too much froth apparently was the reason for the lost 2 points.
Following morning tea we headed down the A1 at a slightly more enthusiastic pace. There was time for one last dance for Tiny and Raymond 'honey my butt cheeks of steel will be home in 2 days' Smithers. There was also time for a little mental cycling lesson for Anna. Unfortunately for Tazer she endured a hard and tough day in the saddle yesterday so it was suggested she trial one of the Dancer’s strategies. This particular strategy is to spend the entire session on the bike thinking of nothing but a blank blackboard but you are allowed the option of adding a smiling face in the bottom left corner, but this face needs to have diagonal eyes because it is good to keep them guessing.
Guest Rider on the left.
40 km out from our destination there he was. Challenge rider and Gypsy Smiddy rider Brendan Lynch who joined us for our final hour or so and on the fly explained to me that he was born in Brisbane, lives in Melbourne but works in Adelaide. I had some difficulty working that out at 40km/hr along the dual carriage way, so thought better of it and returned to the blackboard to erase the ridiculous amounts of information Anna was attempting to write there. Brendan was of great assistance as he navigated us through to the picturesque coastline east of Adelaide, thanks again Brendan. That's it from Tiny Dancer, I'll hand you over to Baby G now.
The final couple of hours into the finish
We traversed the busy dual carriageways towards Port Adelaide at a rapid pace thanks to excitement and the beautiful hot-mix road surface. Jeff and Kevvy in the support vehicle provided excellent protection from the traffic to our rear as we enjoyed the final stretches of our journey, where we set a pace averaging 35km/h for the last 40kms of highway before hitting the beachside suburban roads.
We soon hit the coastline at Semaphore and found an appropriately yellow coloured amenities block on the beachfront. We regrouped and prepared for the final 15kms south along the coastline to Glenelg where our dedicated fans were awaiting us. Day rider Brendan Lynch navigated us through the streets of his adopted home town and spirits were high for our impending arrival then, after a quick stop for Rusty to transform into his alter-ego Eric the Alien, we bid farewell to our dedicated support drivers as they went on ahead to the finish line. Soon enough, we were snaking our way left and right through the streets before discovering we had taken a wrong turn and were now approaching our destination from the opposite direction.
We soon saw the balloons, streamers and the backs of our loved ones who waited patiently for our arrival from the north. Thanks to a busy road full of traffic, we halted at the turning lane on the opposite side of the street to the North Glenelg Sip and Save bottle shop, our glorious finish line after 2530 km of riding. Our dedicated fans and loved ones were not be outsmarted however by our misguided direction and they ran cheering and waving, towards us full of excitement as we rode into the car park.
We had made it!
More kindness stories
Hugs, cheers, tears and photos were exchanged by all and we were soon into the final Smiddy Huddle for the trip – three cheers for everyone involved! Neil and John Ward from Sip and Save Glenelg North provided us with cold (non-alcoholic) beverages and David Kranenburg from our principal sponsor LMG (Bottlemart and Sip & Save etc) was quick to shout us all lunch at the neighbouring fried chicken shop. We were also visited by journalist Brett Williamson from 891 ABC Adelaide who took Sharky aside for an interview about our journey. You can hear the audio report here http://www.abc.net.au/local/stories/2012/09/28/3600005.htm
Shark Man's Gumbie Mistake
We were soon back on the road and with Ray (it’s just a jump to the left, and then a step to the right) Smith back at the navigational helm, we were quickly into the bar of the Bay Motel Hotel for some celebratory beers courtesy of manager Greg Viles and again David from LMG. It was here that some sharp eye noticed that Sharky had committed the ultimate cycling faux pas, a ‘gumby’ mark on his right calf, a grease tattoo from rubbing his leg on the front chainring of his bicycle. Today was the one and only time of the whole tour that Sharky revealed his pin white legs, which are normally covered up in long lycra to protect from sun damage. But today he celebrated by revealing legs as bright and as white as a new born's bottom. Anyway this is such a rookie error for such an experienced rider, a mistake learned multiple times by Anna during the 15 day ride, and an exhausted Sharkman was excused due to his epic month of cycling but only after a decent ribbing by all his fellow riders.
Over dinner at the local City Thai Restaurant, eating the special City Banquet, we all shared our favourite moments on the bike. Tailwinds featured heavily in conversation, JL reminded us of his love for his swag, and Tony’s loud and humorous excursions from his lalophobia also made the highlight real.
7in7 riders find out where their raised funds are utilised
It is now Friday afternoon and I have been slow to finalise this journal after a well-deserved sleep-in. I can however tell you about the amazing invitation we accepted today to visit one of our fundraising beneficiaries - the Flinders Medical Centre Foundation right here in Adelaide. We were welcomed by events manager Deb Palmer and introduced to CEO Deborah Heithersay, who explained to us the development of the cancer centre she is obviously so proud of being part of. They provide a holistic approach in their care for cancer patients, which she likened to a ‘hippie hospital’ with lots of space, interaction between doctors, patients and researchers and soon to be provided alternative therapies and treatments for outpatients. It would be a one-stop-centre for cancer treatment and recovery with yoga classes even planned for the morning. We then listened to Professor Pam Sykes explain her research into radiation treatments for cancer and her focus on preventative rather than curative treatments. During a quick tour of the facility we saw the helipad, some laboratories and a plaster cast hand print of Lance Armstrong from a previous visit to open the building. Tiny dancer noted that his hands perfectly matched the treasured imprints, which made me realise – I’ve never seen Tiny Dancer and Juan Pelota in the same room together… The girls then proceeded to air kiss the image of Lance Armstrong impregnated into the glass door of the research facility,before we were off again on our tour.
PHD student is really 'The Hulk'
For me, the highlight of the tour was meeting Professor Pam’s PHD scholarship student Cameron Dougherty, the recipient of a scholarship directly funded by Smiling for Smiddy! We enjoyed talking with Cameron over coffee, hearing about his inspiration to leave a career in pharmacy to take up the three year scholarship, learning of his role in the ongoing research and in true 7-in-7 style adopting him with the nickname “Bruce Banner” that he certainly seemed proud of. We look forward to hearing about your progress at Flinders Medical Centre Foundation when we see you (or the Hulk) next year to kick off the 2013 leg Sharky’s Oz 7-in-7 ride when it departs Adelaide for Melbourne and a lap of Tasmania. We know you can smash cancer Dr Banner!
For everyone in the groupetto the chance to be exposed to where our fundraising is being utilised was certainly an unforgettable end to an amazing and challenging experience. Our visit really pushed home the importance of our cycling, more so than the 30km/h headwinds, and what an impact we are making in the world. What a sensational conclusion to our long journey with lifelong friends.
Sharky said to tell you that in a couple of days time he will submit a 'Final Wrap' on the 7in7 tour for 2012. Until then, hope you have enjoyed the journey and thanks for all the support over the past 15 days of riding.
Baby Gorilla, also known as Craig Mitchell.
http://www.smiddyfundraising.com.au/event/7-in-7
Friday 28 September 2012
Thursday 27 September 2012
BOTTLEMART SHARKY'S OZ 7in7 DAY 14 JOURNAL BY MEL AND JL
Written by Hell Mel Speare & JL
Stats for the day by Raymond “Georgina” Smith
Course: Whyalla to Port Wakefield
Distance: 167kms
Ride Time: 5 hours 18 min 11sec
Ave speed: 31.6km/h
Top Speed: 72kph coming down descent into Port Wakefield
Metres climbed: 566 metres
Elevation Max: 194 metres
Temperature min: 17 degrees
Temperature max: 30 degrees
Wind direction: Northwest. Hooting tailwind until lunch, then tail cross wind due to road direction
Tiny Dancer Stats:
Av Cadence:88 rpm
Av Heartrate: 109
Max Heartate: 178 (with some chick on his wheel)
Ray Av Cadence: 87rpm – Awarded silver, bronze and participation medals by the only Tiny Dancer
Road Kill Count by everyone
3 x Skippys
8 x Shinglebacks
2 x Crows
(numbers beginning to dwindle)
Well here we are, blog for day 14 - Wednesday.
This morning the alarm went off 5.40am just as I had set it the night before knowing it would give me a good 20 minutes to lay in my swag and enjoy the last quiet minutes before readying myself and packing up for the day. Pressure was on for me to be up as I knew I had to give Sharky’s swag a shake at 6am so I could make sure he was up and ready for our 7am roll out. You see, this morning’s roll out was one of great importance. We had a 7.05am coffee date at McDonalds, Port Pirie before the scheduled 8am roll out to begin our ride for the day. 167km from Port Pirie to Port Wakefield, which with some careful planning from Ray (I love Telstra) included a little diversion in order to keep us safe and off the highway.
It should be noted that all riders and crew were on time and delivered as scheduled. Well done team!!
After the planned coffees, hot cakes, raisin toast and banana breads were all consumed we again for the second time today, managed to stay true to our schedule and depart Port Pirie McDonalds – on time. Of course only after Kevvy’s traditional 100 year old bell was rung by the delighted 1 millionth Port Pirie McDonalds customer.
The diversion off the highway and on to the “B” roadway was a great choice. The road conditions were great, traffic friendly and scenery on either side of the road spectacular. The green of the fields against the grey skys that didn’t open; the remnants of old stone cottages that scatter the paddocks all surrounded by the hills in the distance.
Coupled with the view of our garmins ticking over the first 50km at 35kph with the help of the friendly breeze at our back, it was the perfect cycling morning.
By morning tea stop at Port Borough we had 60km under our belt where, while the cheese, vitaweets and tomato make an appearance we hear a shriek (manly of course!) from Rusty who’s fundraising tally is increasing daily. Rusty had just received a very generous donation from fellow bike rider Neil Lucas who also very generously assisted us Smiddy riders with food and accommodation last night. Once again, it humbles us all to see such generosity come from those that we encounter along this fabulous journey. Thanks Neil and good luck with your cycle trip in October.
Today has been another big cycling day for us all. Our bodies and minds are tiring but not wanting this adventure to end.
Take me back 12 days and I’m positive that time was actually standing still. Now it seems that the days, hours, minutes and seconds are flying by at an ever increasing rate of knots and while I can’t wait to get home and see my kids, Pete and my incredibly supportive family and friends, I’m not so sure I’m ready for it all to end.
I’m struggling to think that my nights rooming and swagging under the stars with the Sharkman (my new bestie), Anna and the rest of the 7 in 7 crew are limited to this night here in Port Wakefield.
You may think that after spending the days cycling side by side we may be sick of each others company, the silly jokes and banter, the stories of life, family and friends, but I’m not.
I’ve had the joy throwing down the swags in the unused pub bar at Noresman; slept soundly in a special old pub room that may resemble the room from a crime scene of NCIS episode and shared a room with 6 others in Eucla, where as Tiny would put it, was so alive with the metabolic burning of calories that the door need to be jimmied open for fear of setting off of heat detectors.
But it’s the nights under the stars in our swags that I have really loved. The simple joys of throwing down the ground tarp and setting up that oh so comfy looking swag. Listening to the stories from the day with my swag neighbour while hammering in pegs, installing swag poles and rummaging through gear bags getting ready for showers.
Sharky, my bestie camp neighbour, has made sure I don’t trip over my swag cover or catch my hair in the zipper as I snuggle myself down for a sleep on the condition that I give his swag a shake in the morning to make sure he’s up and ready for breaky. A perfect camp duo I think.
Come the morning pack up I’ve been spoilt with the Rusty and Ray jumping at the bit to perfect the swag roll and what better way to do so by rolling multiple swags, including mine. Love your work, so much so, my fingers are crossed you continue to perfect it tomorrow. J
Over to you JL.
So it's JL here now with my view of the afternoon session. 106.87km on the clock.
I'll do from half way through lunch and that finds me in a kebab shop at Wallaroo. I was purchasing a little 600ml slice of magic recovery juice - chocolate milk. I've learnt the healing, fueling, recovering and regenerative powers of chocolate milk from my nutritional brains trust, the Tiny Dancer.
I then went back over to the park where Kevvy and Jeff had set up lunch, grabbed a spot on the grass under an obelisk and had a Powernap. From 12:52pm until 1:27pm.
I never really rated the Powernap. Not until today. I'd heard through Sharky, Mel and The Tiny Dancer that the Powernap was Captain Awesome. Those 3 are Powernap professionals on the Powerade Powernap World Tour. Most lunch breaks Mel or Sharky are putting a few sneaky zed's to bed. Tiny being a more black and white individual around the why's and wherefore's of napping only naps at morning tea. It's not a rule. That just happens.
Refreshed and revitalized I found myself a bundle of alert energy as we rolled out. There was a flurry of activity in the first stage after lunch.
The Taser Anna ran over a 2" stick and her 20kg yellow beast ran rough shod through the stick, shattering its hopes of retaining any sort of integrity.
There's been a rift between Rusty and Baby G. Yesterday at afternoon tea there was one Coke. Baby G wanted it. Rusty drank it. Notch one up in the memory banks.
Then earlier today at morning tea there were five wonderful salt and vinegar rice cakes. Baby G ate them. I admit that I assisted. There was much gnashing of teeth. Rusty came up for his favourite little rice based snack food and alas there was none for him.
One all.
This afternoon there were digs, jibes and fun poking. I've done some root cause analysis and the fundamental reason was under catering. It was not the frustrations of living in close quarters for 2 weeks. It was not over eating. It was under catering.
On the way out of town there were two very smooth pieces of smooth smooth hot mix asphalt. A big shout out to Raymondo for kicking off Frank Sinatra's "I love you Tarmac, and if it's quite alright I love you Tarmac..."
Amongst the smooth asphalt was great swathes of gravelly edges. There was one point where Rusty called gravel left with his fingers and then there was a need to call gravel right. He was channelling spirit fingers. Not jazz hands. Definitely spirit fingers. Big Hi to Katie Warren for inspiring the memory of this.
10km after lunch, coming into Kadina we witnessed some solid sprinting from Sharky. Rusty had gone out early into the 60 sign, saw there was no competition and lifted his foot off the gas. Sharky came from the back of the pack and smashed out an effort for 117m, just pipping Rusty for the Johnny Cash.
For the next 10km or so, every time there was a slight issue in the pack, Sharky blamed the rabble on his spirit breaking win. He finally had one and was basking. Yours truly is yet to capture one so I feel his drive to achieve.
We climbed out of lunch consistently for about an hour. There was a long long long steady climb over 10km to the 145km mark where we ascended around 200m. About 3km from the top of the climb, our resident spotted jersey mountain goat, Rusty, decided to rub our collective noses in his already secured title by making a burst off the front.
Over the next 2.5 km he put about 800m into the group and little did he know that we were looking for a drink stop about 20 from the end, and that's why he was pulling away so fast. With Rusty powering away in the distance we pulled over and had a coke, chips and applied chamois and sun cream.
Rusty had lobbed into a church converted into a Frosty Fruit vendor about 2km up the road then rolled back to us, just as he finished his ice cream.
On the road again we climbed the last kilometre or so before dropping the 200m over about 6km, the first part being at 9%. Baby G, Ray and I had a crack at the top part of the decent, before the York Peninsula opened up in front of us. We sat up when to admire the view when all of a sudden Tiny came past us at about 54km/hr. Mel was tight on his tail and when Tiny turned around he saw her there, thought "I've got a bit left" and cranked it slightly.
He turned it up to 56 and then turned around and Mel was still there. He thought he still had some left in the tank so he cranked it a little more and there was 60 on the Garmin. He turned around and Mel was still there. It now became a pride thing. He pushed as hard as he could with an angry "aaaaaaaargh". His heart rate monitor was beeping, his legs were burning and he finally dropped her at 61. Pride intact he started to soft pedal at around 66. He was so far ahead we didn't regroup for about 7km, such was the furious fury of Tiny's form.
We then rolled the last 10km into Port Wakefield, with the last 3 of it being back on the major Adelaide Highway. Made our way to the local and only caravan park and scored a great grassy camp site, complete with beers, mixed nuts and an assortment of stretches.
Swags up, showers had, Taser and Rusty created a great stir fry with rice for us. We did the nightly journal reading and the newly traditional reading of emails and comments of support from home. Really great last night on the road.
Strange day today on that it was our last big day. Last day over 100 miles. Last night camping in swags. Last night of this journey. Bit sad but a bit excited about Adelaide tomorrow. We've ridden over 2400 in the 13 days.
There's been some stunning cycling days and we've been incredibly lucky in general with the weather. The epic tax we paid in that first week with the head winds have paid off in spades in the second week.
Thanks again to Sharky for inviting me to come along on this month of cycling. It's been an amazing experience, and I genuinely fear the bubble is about to burst as I enter the reality of my life again.
Cheers.
JL.
http://www.smiddyfundraising.com.au/event/7-in-7
Stats for the day by Raymond “Georgina” Smith
Course: Whyalla to Port Wakefield
Distance: 167kms
Ride Time: 5 hours 18 min 11sec
Ave speed: 31.6km/h
Top Speed: 72kph coming down descent into Port Wakefield
Metres climbed: 566 metres
Elevation Max: 194 metres
Temperature min: 17 degrees
Temperature max: 30 degrees
Wind direction: Northwest. Hooting tailwind until lunch, then tail cross wind due to road direction
Tiny Dancer Stats:
Av Cadence:88 rpm
Av Heartrate: 109
Max Heartate: 178 (with some chick on his wheel)
Ray Av Cadence: 87rpm – Awarded silver, bronze and participation medals by the only Tiny Dancer
Road Kill Count by everyone
3 x Skippys
8 x Shinglebacks
2 x Crows
(numbers beginning to dwindle)
Well here we are, blog for day 14 - Wednesday.
This morning the alarm went off 5.40am just as I had set it the night before knowing it would give me a good 20 minutes to lay in my swag and enjoy the last quiet minutes before readying myself and packing up for the day. Pressure was on for me to be up as I knew I had to give Sharky’s swag a shake at 6am so I could make sure he was up and ready for our 7am roll out. You see, this morning’s roll out was one of great importance. We had a 7.05am coffee date at McDonalds, Port Pirie before the scheduled 8am roll out to begin our ride for the day. 167km from Port Pirie to Port Wakefield, which with some careful planning from Ray (I love Telstra) included a little diversion in order to keep us safe and off the highway.
It should be noted that all riders and crew were on time and delivered as scheduled. Well done team!!
After the planned coffees, hot cakes, raisin toast and banana breads were all consumed we again for the second time today, managed to stay true to our schedule and depart Port Pirie McDonalds – on time. Of course only after Kevvy’s traditional 100 year old bell was rung by the delighted 1 millionth Port Pirie McDonalds customer.
The diversion off the highway and on to the “B” roadway was a great choice. The road conditions were great, traffic friendly and scenery on either side of the road spectacular. The green of the fields against the grey skys that didn’t open; the remnants of old stone cottages that scatter the paddocks all surrounded by the hills in the distance.
Coupled with the view of our garmins ticking over the first 50km at 35kph with the help of the friendly breeze at our back, it was the perfect cycling morning.
By morning tea stop at Port Borough we had 60km under our belt where, while the cheese, vitaweets and tomato make an appearance we hear a shriek (manly of course!) from Rusty who’s fundraising tally is increasing daily. Rusty had just received a very generous donation from fellow bike rider Neil Lucas who also very generously assisted us Smiddy riders with food and accommodation last night. Once again, it humbles us all to see such generosity come from those that we encounter along this fabulous journey. Thanks Neil and good luck with your cycle trip in October.
Today has been another big cycling day for us all. Our bodies and minds are tiring but not wanting this adventure to end.
Take me back 12 days and I’m positive that time was actually standing still. Now it seems that the days, hours, minutes and seconds are flying by at an ever increasing rate of knots and while I can’t wait to get home and see my kids, Pete and my incredibly supportive family and friends, I’m not so sure I’m ready for it all to end.
I’m struggling to think that my nights rooming and swagging under the stars with the Sharkman (my new bestie), Anna and the rest of the 7 in 7 crew are limited to this night here in Port Wakefield.
You may think that after spending the days cycling side by side we may be sick of each others company, the silly jokes and banter, the stories of life, family and friends, but I’m not.
I’ve had the joy throwing down the swags in the unused pub bar at Noresman; slept soundly in a special old pub room that may resemble the room from a crime scene of NCIS episode and shared a room with 6 others in Eucla, where as Tiny would put it, was so alive with the metabolic burning of calories that the door need to be jimmied open for fear of setting off of heat detectors.
But it’s the nights under the stars in our swags that I have really loved. The simple joys of throwing down the ground tarp and setting up that oh so comfy looking swag. Listening to the stories from the day with my swag neighbour while hammering in pegs, installing swag poles and rummaging through gear bags getting ready for showers.
Sharky, my bestie camp neighbour, has made sure I don’t trip over my swag cover or catch my hair in the zipper as I snuggle myself down for a sleep on the condition that I give his swag a shake in the morning to make sure he’s up and ready for breaky. A perfect camp duo I think.
Come the morning pack up I’ve been spoilt with the Rusty and Ray jumping at the bit to perfect the swag roll and what better way to do so by rolling multiple swags, including mine. Love your work, so much so, my fingers are crossed you continue to perfect it tomorrow. J
Over to you JL.
So it's JL here now with my view of the afternoon session. 106.87km on the clock.
I'll do from half way through lunch and that finds me in a kebab shop at Wallaroo. I was purchasing a little 600ml slice of magic recovery juice - chocolate milk. I've learnt the healing, fueling, recovering and regenerative powers of chocolate milk from my nutritional brains trust, the Tiny Dancer.
I then went back over to the park where Kevvy and Jeff had set up lunch, grabbed a spot on the grass under an obelisk and had a Powernap. From 12:52pm until 1:27pm.
I never really rated the Powernap. Not until today. I'd heard through Sharky, Mel and The Tiny Dancer that the Powernap was Captain Awesome. Those 3 are Powernap professionals on the Powerade Powernap World Tour. Most lunch breaks Mel or Sharky are putting a few sneaky zed's to bed. Tiny being a more black and white individual around the why's and wherefore's of napping only naps at morning tea. It's not a rule. That just happens.
Refreshed and revitalized I found myself a bundle of alert energy as we rolled out. There was a flurry of activity in the first stage after lunch.
The Taser Anna ran over a 2" stick and her 20kg yellow beast ran rough shod through the stick, shattering its hopes of retaining any sort of integrity.
There's been a rift between Rusty and Baby G. Yesterday at afternoon tea there was one Coke. Baby G wanted it. Rusty drank it. Notch one up in the memory banks.
Then earlier today at morning tea there were five wonderful salt and vinegar rice cakes. Baby G ate them. I admit that I assisted. There was much gnashing of teeth. Rusty came up for his favourite little rice based snack food and alas there was none for him.
One all.
This afternoon there were digs, jibes and fun poking. I've done some root cause analysis and the fundamental reason was under catering. It was not the frustrations of living in close quarters for 2 weeks. It was not over eating. It was under catering.
On the way out of town there were two very smooth pieces of smooth smooth hot mix asphalt. A big shout out to Raymondo for kicking off Frank Sinatra's "I love you Tarmac, and if it's quite alright I love you Tarmac..."
Amongst the smooth asphalt was great swathes of gravelly edges. There was one point where Rusty called gravel left with his fingers and then there was a need to call gravel right. He was channelling spirit fingers. Not jazz hands. Definitely spirit fingers. Big Hi to Katie Warren for inspiring the memory of this.
10km after lunch, coming into Kadina we witnessed some solid sprinting from Sharky. Rusty had gone out early into the 60 sign, saw there was no competition and lifted his foot off the gas. Sharky came from the back of the pack and smashed out an effort for 117m, just pipping Rusty for the Johnny Cash.
For the next 10km or so, every time there was a slight issue in the pack, Sharky blamed the rabble on his spirit breaking win. He finally had one and was basking. Yours truly is yet to capture one so I feel his drive to achieve.
We climbed out of lunch consistently for about an hour. There was a long long long steady climb over 10km to the 145km mark where we ascended around 200m. About 3km from the top of the climb, our resident spotted jersey mountain goat, Rusty, decided to rub our collective noses in his already secured title by making a burst off the front.
Over the next 2.5 km he put about 800m into the group and little did he know that we were looking for a drink stop about 20 from the end, and that's why he was pulling away so fast. With Rusty powering away in the distance we pulled over and had a coke, chips and applied chamois and sun cream.
Rusty had lobbed into a church converted into a Frosty Fruit vendor about 2km up the road then rolled back to us, just as he finished his ice cream.
On the road again we climbed the last kilometre or so before dropping the 200m over about 6km, the first part being at 9%. Baby G, Ray and I had a crack at the top part of the decent, before the York Peninsula opened up in front of us. We sat up when to admire the view when all of a sudden Tiny came past us at about 54km/hr. Mel was tight on his tail and when Tiny turned around he saw her there, thought "I've got a bit left" and cranked it slightly.
He turned it up to 56 and then turned around and Mel was still there. He thought he still had some left in the tank so he cranked it a little more and there was 60 on the Garmin. He turned around and Mel was still there. It now became a pride thing. He pushed as hard as he could with an angry "aaaaaaaargh". His heart rate monitor was beeping, his legs were burning and he finally dropped her at 61. Pride intact he started to soft pedal at around 66. He was so far ahead we didn't regroup for about 7km, such was the furious fury of Tiny's form.
We then rolled the last 10km into Port Wakefield, with the last 3 of it being back on the major Adelaide Highway. Made our way to the local and only caravan park and scored a great grassy camp site, complete with beers, mixed nuts and an assortment of stretches.
Swags up, showers had, Taser and Rusty created a great stir fry with rice for us. We did the nightly journal reading and the newly traditional reading of emails and comments of support from home. Really great last night on the road.
Strange day today on that it was our last big day. Last day over 100 miles. Last night camping in swags. Last night of this journey. Bit sad but a bit excited about Adelaide tomorrow. We've ridden over 2400 in the 13 days.
There's been some stunning cycling days and we've been incredibly lucky in general with the weather. The epic tax we paid in that first week with the head winds have paid off in spades in the second week.
Thanks again to Sharky for inviting me to come along on this month of cycling. It's been an amazing experience, and I genuinely fear the bubble is about to burst as I enter the reality of my life again.
Cheers.
JL.
http://www.smiddyfundraising.com.au/event/7-in-7
Tuesday 25 September 2012
BOTTLEMART SHARKY'S OZ 7in7 DAY 13 REPORT BY SHARKY
Written by Mark "Sharky" Smoothy
Stats for the day by Ray (I love you tailwind) Smithers
Course: Whyalla to Port Pirie
Distance: 167km's
Ride Time: 5 hours 40 min
Average speed: 28.7km/h
Metres climbed: 393 metres
Highest elevation: 107 metres
Temperature min: 8 degrees
Temperature max: 32 degrees
Average speed of 24.5km/h for first 76km's into Port Augusta
Wind direction: Headwind for first 76km's, Tailwind for 91km's
Tiny Dancer’s Special Stats:
Average heart rate: 109 BPM
Average Power: 143 Watts
Average cadence: 84
Coffee shots at Port Augusta coffee shop (5)
Time spent out of control (Nil) So much coffee cancelled out Captain Silly.
Road Kill Count by April (9) Lucy (5) and their Mother Robyn Conway
8 skippy's
3 lizards
2 snakes
1 magpie
2 crows
The great Journal writers\
Thank you to Tiny Dancer and Taser for the awesome journals over the past two nights. What a great pleasure it has been for me this trip to not only get many nights off from writing the journals, but to be able to sit back, listen, and thoroughly enjoy the readings each night. Back in 2006 when Ron, Ollie and I left for Townsville for that very first Smiddy Challenge, adorned with our 10kg backpacks, each night a journal was written, and each night that journal was read out to our group of 3. That tradition has passed down to each Smiddy event and of course to this extended 7in7 journey around Australia. I have records of every blog ever written since 2006 for every Smiddy Challenge event and every 7in7 leg. My, the stories over the years are pure gold and I keep them for future reference for a time when I can sit back, put my feet up and have time to reflect. So to all the past blog writers I dedicate today's journal entry to you.
An alarming night\
After a night spent at Hotel Spencer in Whyalla, where it is a common occurrence for the fire alarm to sound -and sound it did- precisely at 9pm, when someone had a shower and left the door open. Apparently if the bathroom door is left open while lathering up, the steam from the shower sets off the smoke alarm in the bedroom. This was explained in detail by one of the frustrated fire brigade personal who hinted that they attend false alarms to this Hotel regularly. So after the non-existent fire was laid to rest, everyone was invited to return to their rooms. For the 7in7 crew sleep always weighs heavily on our minds. As much of it as possible is the best thing to do prior to another big day in the saddle, and that is exactly what Taser did not get. My inside mole informed me that Taser was up until 12, slept until 4am and finished her blog just prior to roll out at 7am. A great display of dedication and passion Taser showed by completing her blog, as have all the crew who have done a blog this trip. I have said it before and I will say it again, I LOVE YOU GUYS!
76km's of headwinds gets the crew a reward in Augusta
Weather man Ray suggested we get out butts on the road early as a vicious headwind was expected mid-morning on the road up to Augusta. By the time bikes were unlocked from the hotel storage, and the Conway girls in Lucy, April and their Mother Robyn sent us on our way with the honour of ringing the cow bell, it was 7:20am. Thank you also to Robyn for staying behind and washing all our stinky riding attire. Raymond 'Laundry Boy' Smithers is enjoying the break. Anyway off we roll and the wind was present right off the bat -light at first- with just enough power to tickle your nasal hairs. We had time for a quick yellow room visit -called by yours truly- at the 11km mark, a second one at 30km's, and BAM, it hit us! Full on headwind, up to 25km/h and our nasal hairs were now being ripped out! A snap decision was made to ride to the 45km mark, where we had a quick stop to demolish one of the yummy fruit cakes that Robyn brought with her, made by Rusty's Mum Tina Korda. (Thank you Tina, very tasty and much appreciated.)
Port Augusta was at the 76km mark and the group were unanimous in their decision to tough it out until then, and have an extended morning tea break at a real cafe. So for the road crew, that now consisted of Kevvy, Jeff, Robyn and the two rascally little worker girls, Lucy and April, there was no morning tea to prepare. Instead we all met at this Coffee shop that I felt I was meant to visit. I could not believe my luck when I led the group to the first coffee shop in sight and saw that it was called 'Ozzies' Cafe. You see that is my Father's name, a name that it not so common anymore, but popular in the 30 and 40's. I was immensely impressed, took a photo and sent it directly to my brother Terry to pass on to the folks. Dad's 79th birthday is in two days time so it could not be more appropriate. Dad will be chuffed for sure.
The taboo brown room discussion
After a slow average of 24km/h, or 3 hours of torture to ride just 76km's, we were all famished. JL and Baby G polished off 2 worlds best milkshakes waiting for their scrambled eggs on toast to arrive. It was here that Tiny Dancer had 5 shots of coffee along with some light and fluffy eggs, more on that later. The omelets were sensational and after a good one hour stop it was time to get back on our steeds. Now we all comfortable mention the 'Yellow Room' in our journals, but I am going to go where no writer has dared to visit. Read no further if you are squeamish because the 'Brown Room' has to be discussed due to my second visit of these intriguing musical toilets on this trip. As far as I know these toilets are as popular a tourist destination in South Australia as it is visiting the Flinders Ranges, which we rode beside for much of the day, but I will let you be the judge of that...
I am convinced they are needed back home in Queensland and would welcome your input, maybe a petition to our old mate Can Do back in sunny Queensland? Anyway a quick visit was needed by the group prior to rolling out of Port Augusta, and the first thing one notices is the lack of a door handle, as the door opens and closes at the touch of an electronic button. Once inside and comfortably seated, popcorn ordered and ready to go about your business, a calming male laxative type radio voice instructs you to take your time, enjoy, but to be aware that once 10 minutes has elapsed the door will automatically open... Which could be a tad embarrassing if your pants are still around your ankles. Anyway helping you along the way is some beautiful, we-love-the-world relaxing type music -the type they use when you are waiting for a Vodafone operator- but then a voice at 5 minutes interrupts the music that implores you not to dilly dally too much and from then the pressure is on.... A press of the button ejects measured amounts of loo paper, mysteriously the music stops at this point, which I must add is very disappointing as I was just getting into it. Upon arising from the royal throne one notices that there is no button to flush the toilet. I nearly panic, as I know Taser is waiting next, but quickly my fears dissipate when it is revealed that not until you actually use the automatic soap dispenser and sensor motion water dispenser and electronic hand dryer, does the loo dump the evidence and scare you with a throaty and noisy airline type flush. I had the undeniable joy of beating the 10 minute siren and retreated knowing that Taser was indeed in for a treat.
The eggs and the legs
So 76km's up one side of the great Flinders Ranges into a howling headwind, then the next 91km's we were rewarded with a 25km/h tailwind. The tasty and filling morning tea, and now the tailwinds, put the zen back in the yen, and 8 riders were as excited as a pack of gorilla's infested with flees and scratching themselves silly. Pretty exciting hey? It was during this stage that Tiny Dancer enlightened me with the following quote;
light and fluffy eggs make for fluffy and light legs. He got me to repeat it 5 times really fast and told me that if I was successful he would buy me protein bars for my entire life. I got to 4 and was looking good but fluffed it on the 5th one and TD's protein stash was safe.
Sharky needs a feed now!
For the remainder of the afternoon we enjoyed the great tailwind that pushed our daily average up to a respectable 28.7km/h. We enjoyed two more food stops, one at 120km's, then another one that I sprung on the group at 140km's. At that 120km stop I consumed too much simple sugar foods and was struggling and knew I needed something more substantial. 3 tuna, cheese and tomatoe rye wraps later and I was good to go. Had I not been selfish and done that I knew I would suffer like a dog come tomorrow's last long stage of another day over 160km's. The crew were good about it and I thank them for their understanding. Anyway we had daylight to spare when we cruised into Port Pirie Tennis Centre and we celebrated with our normal hugs all round another successful day done and dusted. Two to go!
Rusty's annoying song
Special mention goes to Rusty for coming up with the most annoying song of the entire 7in7 journey in 5 years, even worse than "100km's to go" from last year, see Journal number 24, issue 12, edition 2 from 2011, page 18, paragraph 9 on the second to last sentence if keen to sing that one. Anyway this is how Rusty's song went and please do sing along.
"I've got a song that will get on your nerves."
"Get on your nerves"
"Get on your nerves
Repeat three times and in-between each verse sing this;
"And it goes something like this."
Rusty made each of us sing it at least once, before making all of us sing it together. It was a really special memorable 'forgettable' moment.
Truckers that will get us with their dogs.
I learnt a new trucky terminology today, not a good one as it turns out. The windy stretch into Port Augusta was on a beautiful piece of road with stunning views of the Flinders Ranges and the vibrant blue of the Southern Ocean inlet. What ruined it was not the amount of traffic, but how dangerous and impatient some of the motorists were along that 76km stretch. One white 4WD bypassed Kevvy and Jeff and swung in so close to the peloton that they narrowly missed taking out all 4 riders in the outside lane. It was scary and totally unnecessary. Hell Mel said to me afterwards that she had to restrain herself from lifting her finger, and that is was something she never did, but that incident brought her close. We all felt the same way. The incident with a couple of trucks was even scarier. Once again a semi-trailer 2 carriage truck went close by the group, and then swung the second trailer in to just miss JL and Tiny. He was heard to say over the UHF to another truckie, "I scared the c*#ts with the dog. Dog means the second trailer. I hope that Karma exists and he gets his own back one day. It was stressful for the crew and Kevvy and Jeff took charge and came so close behind us for that final 20km's into Port Augusta that nothing could get close to us. Thank you beautiful road crew. One day people like that may need treatment for a cancer related illness. Does not seem right they receive it...
A Baby Gorilla who is as courageous as a lion
Baby G told me that last 25km's coming into Augusta was up there with the lousiest he has ever felt on the bike, which is the third time on this trip he has stated this fact, each episode worse than the other. The thing I love about Baby Gorilla is that he feels that way but just buries his head closer to the top bar on his bike and soldiers on until we reach the next stop. He is as hard as nails and has earned the respect off all the riders in this year's 7in7 peloton. The G also has an amazing sprint on him and very rarely loses a sprint to the 60 sign as we enter each town. Today the boys gifted me with a win for the 60 sign into Port Augusta, but I declined as I wanted to win one fair and square or not at all. Rusty on the other hand had no qualms in taking my spot once he realised I had sat up.
Maria Smiddy
Tonight Maria Smiddy surprised us all with a phone call from New Zealand. Each and everyone of us got to chat to her briefly. It was a highlight of the night and very much appreciated and loved by the group. Thank you Maria and David for thinking of the 7in7 crew.
Scott bikes rock
Just before the Challenge event Mel and and Matt at Avanti Plus Bicycles in The Valley helped Rowan and I out with new CR1 Scott, Shimano equipped bikes, for all future Smiddy rides. Just an update for Matt and Mel that after 4000km's of riding in 21 days it has not missed a beat. Not one mechanical, no punctures on the Maxxis tyres and is a gem to ride. Thanks guys for your support. So if you're looking for a bike or parts please drop in and say hi to this beautiful married couple, who treat their customers like they are close friends or family.
Thank you to Mark, Neil and Noel
Firstly to Noel and Bronwyn Bates, my home-stay hosts for the Smiddy Challenge who look after me each year in Biloela. They kindly arranged the contact here in Port Pirie at the Tennis Centre. Noel lived here and was a member at this club. Thank you to Mark, who helps to run the centre and was here to welcome us in and basically to take over the whole centre and use it at our leisure. Lastly thank you to Neil Lucas, who is licensee for Port Augusta and Port Pirie McDonalds, who donated all the food for the night.
Neil's ride for children and rider donation
Rusty organised a collection amongst the crew and we came up with a $200 donation to go towards Neil's fund raising page. You see Neil has organised his own epic ride with 24 mates of 1200km's over 7 days, which begins in October. His ride is raising funds for sick kids and the McDonald House Foundation. Neil was invited to stay for the journal reading tonight. I think we will be seeing Neil on a future Smiddy ride. He has the Smiddy spirit that's for sure.
Sorry this journal has gone on but hope you have enjoyed it.
With just two days to go the crew are excited but also remembering not to switch off until we safely arrive at our destination.
Thank you for the donations that continue to come through, here is the link again in case anyone out there is still keen to donate
http://www.smiddyfundraising.com.au/event/7-in-7
I know the crew would love to hear from our supporters out there so if you wish to send any messages to the crew, we finish at 12pm at our sponsor's destination in Glenelg. I will make sure the messages are read out to the group at our celebration dinner on Thursday night at the local Thai restaurant. Send to sharky@smiddy.org.au
Take care and expect a special combined journal tomorrow from JL and Melissa.
Cheers.
Sharky
PS MICHAEL AND CATHY, THINKING OF YOU GUYS BECAUSE OF THE 14 MESSAGES I MISSED ACROSS THE NULLARBOR. LOVE YOU BOTH FOR IT. THE 6 I FOUND WERE BRILLIANT!
Stats for the day by Ray (I love you tailwind) Smithers
Course: Whyalla to Port Pirie
Distance: 167km's
Ride Time: 5 hours 40 min
Average speed: 28.7km/h
Metres climbed: 393 metres
Highest elevation: 107 metres
Temperature min: 8 degrees
Temperature max: 32 degrees
Average speed of 24.5km/h for first 76km's into Port Augusta
Wind direction: Headwind for first 76km's, Tailwind for 91km's
Tiny Dancer’s Special Stats:
Average heart rate: 109 BPM
Average Power: 143 Watts
Average cadence: 84
Coffee shots at Port Augusta coffee shop (5)
Time spent out of control (Nil) So much coffee cancelled out Captain Silly.
Road Kill Count by April (9) Lucy (5) and their Mother Robyn Conway
8 skippy's
3 lizards
2 snakes
1 magpie
2 crows
The great Journal writers\
Thank you to Tiny Dancer and Taser for the awesome journals over the past two nights. What a great pleasure it has been for me this trip to not only get many nights off from writing the journals, but to be able to sit back, listen, and thoroughly enjoy the readings each night. Back in 2006 when Ron, Ollie and I left for Townsville for that very first Smiddy Challenge, adorned with our 10kg backpacks, each night a journal was written, and each night that journal was read out to our group of 3. That tradition has passed down to each Smiddy event and of course to this extended 7in7 journey around Australia. I have records of every blog ever written since 2006 for every Smiddy Challenge event and every 7in7 leg. My, the stories over the years are pure gold and I keep them for future reference for a time when I can sit back, put my feet up and have time to reflect. So to all the past blog writers I dedicate today's journal entry to you.
An alarming night\
After a night spent at Hotel Spencer in Whyalla, where it is a common occurrence for the fire alarm to sound -and sound it did- precisely at 9pm, when someone had a shower and left the door open. Apparently if the bathroom door is left open while lathering up, the steam from the shower sets off the smoke alarm in the bedroom. This was explained in detail by one of the frustrated fire brigade personal who hinted that they attend false alarms to this Hotel regularly. So after the non-existent fire was laid to rest, everyone was invited to return to their rooms. For the 7in7 crew sleep always weighs heavily on our minds. As much of it as possible is the best thing to do prior to another big day in the saddle, and that is exactly what Taser did not get. My inside mole informed me that Taser was up until 12, slept until 4am and finished her blog just prior to roll out at 7am. A great display of dedication and passion Taser showed by completing her blog, as have all the crew who have done a blog this trip. I have said it before and I will say it again, I LOVE YOU GUYS!
76km's of headwinds gets the crew a reward in Augusta
Weather man Ray suggested we get out butts on the road early as a vicious headwind was expected mid-morning on the road up to Augusta. By the time bikes were unlocked from the hotel storage, and the Conway girls in Lucy, April and their Mother Robyn sent us on our way with the honour of ringing the cow bell, it was 7:20am. Thank you also to Robyn for staying behind and washing all our stinky riding attire. Raymond 'Laundry Boy' Smithers is enjoying the break. Anyway off we roll and the wind was present right off the bat -light at first- with just enough power to tickle your nasal hairs. We had time for a quick yellow room visit -called by yours truly- at the 11km mark, a second one at 30km's, and BAM, it hit us! Full on headwind, up to 25km/h and our nasal hairs were now being ripped out! A snap decision was made to ride to the 45km mark, where we had a quick stop to demolish one of the yummy fruit cakes that Robyn brought with her, made by Rusty's Mum Tina Korda. (Thank you Tina, very tasty and much appreciated.)
Port Augusta was at the 76km mark and the group were unanimous in their decision to tough it out until then, and have an extended morning tea break at a real cafe. So for the road crew, that now consisted of Kevvy, Jeff, Robyn and the two rascally little worker girls, Lucy and April, there was no morning tea to prepare. Instead we all met at this Coffee shop that I felt I was meant to visit. I could not believe my luck when I led the group to the first coffee shop in sight and saw that it was called 'Ozzies' Cafe. You see that is my Father's name, a name that it not so common anymore, but popular in the 30 and 40's. I was immensely impressed, took a photo and sent it directly to my brother Terry to pass on to the folks. Dad's 79th birthday is in two days time so it could not be more appropriate. Dad will be chuffed for sure.
The taboo brown room discussion
After a slow average of 24km/h, or 3 hours of torture to ride just 76km's, we were all famished. JL and Baby G polished off 2 worlds best milkshakes waiting for their scrambled eggs on toast to arrive. It was here that Tiny Dancer had 5 shots of coffee along with some light and fluffy eggs, more on that later. The omelets were sensational and after a good one hour stop it was time to get back on our steeds. Now we all comfortable mention the 'Yellow Room' in our journals, but I am going to go where no writer has dared to visit. Read no further if you are squeamish because the 'Brown Room' has to be discussed due to my second visit of these intriguing musical toilets on this trip. As far as I know these toilets are as popular a tourist destination in South Australia as it is visiting the Flinders Ranges, which we rode beside for much of the day, but I will let you be the judge of that...
I am convinced they are needed back home in Queensland and would welcome your input, maybe a petition to our old mate Can Do back in sunny Queensland? Anyway a quick visit was needed by the group prior to rolling out of Port Augusta, and the first thing one notices is the lack of a door handle, as the door opens and closes at the touch of an electronic button. Once inside and comfortably seated, popcorn ordered and ready to go about your business, a calming male laxative type radio voice instructs you to take your time, enjoy, but to be aware that once 10 minutes has elapsed the door will automatically open... Which could be a tad embarrassing if your pants are still around your ankles. Anyway helping you along the way is some beautiful, we-love-the-world relaxing type music -the type they use when you are waiting for a Vodafone operator- but then a voice at 5 minutes interrupts the music that implores you not to dilly dally too much and from then the pressure is on.... A press of the button ejects measured amounts of loo paper, mysteriously the music stops at this point, which I must add is very disappointing as I was just getting into it. Upon arising from the royal throne one notices that there is no button to flush the toilet. I nearly panic, as I know Taser is waiting next, but quickly my fears dissipate when it is revealed that not until you actually use the automatic soap dispenser and sensor motion water dispenser and electronic hand dryer, does the loo dump the evidence and scare you with a throaty and noisy airline type flush. I had the undeniable joy of beating the 10 minute siren and retreated knowing that Taser was indeed in for a treat.
The eggs and the legs
So 76km's up one side of the great Flinders Ranges into a howling headwind, then the next 91km's we were rewarded with a 25km/h tailwind. The tasty and filling morning tea, and now the tailwinds, put the zen back in the yen, and 8 riders were as excited as a pack of gorilla's infested with flees and scratching themselves silly. Pretty exciting hey? It was during this stage that Tiny Dancer enlightened me with the following quote;
light and fluffy eggs make for fluffy and light legs. He got me to repeat it 5 times really fast and told me that if I was successful he would buy me protein bars for my entire life. I got to 4 and was looking good but fluffed it on the 5th one and TD's protein stash was safe.
Sharky needs a feed now!
For the remainder of the afternoon we enjoyed the great tailwind that pushed our daily average up to a respectable 28.7km/h. We enjoyed two more food stops, one at 120km's, then another one that I sprung on the group at 140km's. At that 120km stop I consumed too much simple sugar foods and was struggling and knew I needed something more substantial. 3 tuna, cheese and tomatoe rye wraps later and I was good to go. Had I not been selfish and done that I knew I would suffer like a dog come tomorrow's last long stage of another day over 160km's. The crew were good about it and I thank them for their understanding. Anyway we had daylight to spare when we cruised into Port Pirie Tennis Centre and we celebrated with our normal hugs all round another successful day done and dusted. Two to go!
Rusty's annoying song
Special mention goes to Rusty for coming up with the most annoying song of the entire 7in7 journey in 5 years, even worse than "100km's to go" from last year, see Journal number 24, issue 12, edition 2 from 2011, page 18, paragraph 9 on the second to last sentence if keen to sing that one. Anyway this is how Rusty's song went and please do sing along.
"I've got a song that will get on your nerves."
"Get on your nerves"
"Get on your nerves
Repeat three times and in-between each verse sing this;
"And it goes something like this."
Rusty made each of us sing it at least once, before making all of us sing it together. It was a really special memorable 'forgettable' moment.
Truckers that will get us with their dogs.
I learnt a new trucky terminology today, not a good one as it turns out. The windy stretch into Port Augusta was on a beautiful piece of road with stunning views of the Flinders Ranges and the vibrant blue of the Southern Ocean inlet. What ruined it was not the amount of traffic, but how dangerous and impatient some of the motorists were along that 76km stretch. One white 4WD bypassed Kevvy and Jeff and swung in so close to the peloton that they narrowly missed taking out all 4 riders in the outside lane. It was scary and totally unnecessary. Hell Mel said to me afterwards that she had to restrain herself from lifting her finger, and that is was something she never did, but that incident brought her close. We all felt the same way. The incident with a couple of trucks was even scarier. Once again a semi-trailer 2 carriage truck went close by the group, and then swung the second trailer in to just miss JL and Tiny. He was heard to say over the UHF to another truckie, "I scared the c*#ts with the dog. Dog means the second trailer. I hope that Karma exists and he gets his own back one day. It was stressful for the crew and Kevvy and Jeff took charge and came so close behind us for that final 20km's into Port Augusta that nothing could get close to us. Thank you beautiful road crew. One day people like that may need treatment for a cancer related illness. Does not seem right they receive it...
A Baby Gorilla who is as courageous as a lion
Baby G told me that last 25km's coming into Augusta was up there with the lousiest he has ever felt on the bike, which is the third time on this trip he has stated this fact, each episode worse than the other. The thing I love about Baby Gorilla is that he feels that way but just buries his head closer to the top bar on his bike and soldiers on until we reach the next stop. He is as hard as nails and has earned the respect off all the riders in this year's 7in7 peloton. The G also has an amazing sprint on him and very rarely loses a sprint to the 60 sign as we enter each town. Today the boys gifted me with a win for the 60 sign into Port Augusta, but I declined as I wanted to win one fair and square or not at all. Rusty on the other hand had no qualms in taking my spot once he realised I had sat up.
Maria Smiddy
Tonight Maria Smiddy surprised us all with a phone call from New Zealand. Each and everyone of us got to chat to her briefly. It was a highlight of the night and very much appreciated and loved by the group. Thank you Maria and David for thinking of the 7in7 crew.
Scott bikes rock
Just before the Challenge event Mel and and Matt at Avanti Plus Bicycles in The Valley helped Rowan and I out with new CR1 Scott, Shimano equipped bikes, for all future Smiddy rides. Just an update for Matt and Mel that after 4000km's of riding in 21 days it has not missed a beat. Not one mechanical, no punctures on the Maxxis tyres and is a gem to ride. Thanks guys for your support. So if you're looking for a bike or parts please drop in and say hi to this beautiful married couple, who treat their customers like they are close friends or family.
Thank you to Mark, Neil and Noel
Firstly to Noel and Bronwyn Bates, my home-stay hosts for the Smiddy Challenge who look after me each year in Biloela. They kindly arranged the contact here in Port Pirie at the Tennis Centre. Noel lived here and was a member at this club. Thank you to Mark, who helps to run the centre and was here to welcome us in and basically to take over the whole centre and use it at our leisure. Lastly thank you to Neil Lucas, who is licensee for Port Augusta and Port Pirie McDonalds, who donated all the food for the night.
Neil's ride for children and rider donation
Rusty organised a collection amongst the crew and we came up with a $200 donation to go towards Neil's fund raising page. You see Neil has organised his own epic ride with 24 mates of 1200km's over 7 days, which begins in October. His ride is raising funds for sick kids and the McDonald House Foundation. Neil was invited to stay for the journal reading tonight. I think we will be seeing Neil on a future Smiddy ride. He has the Smiddy spirit that's for sure.
Sorry this journal has gone on but hope you have enjoyed it.
With just two days to go the crew are excited but also remembering not to switch off until we safely arrive at our destination.
Thank you for the donations that continue to come through, here is the link again in case anyone out there is still keen to donate
http://www.smiddyfundraising.com.au/event/7-in-7
I know the crew would love to hear from our supporters out there so if you wish to send any messages to the crew, we finish at 12pm at our sponsor's destination in Glenelg. I will make sure the messages are read out to the group at our celebration dinner on Thursday night at the local Thai restaurant. Send to sharky@smiddy.org.au
Take care and expect a special combined journal tomorrow from JL and Melissa.
Cheers.
Sharky
PS MICHAEL AND CATHY, THINKING OF YOU GUYS BECAUSE OF THE 14 MESSAGES I MISSED ACROSS THE NULLARBOR. LOVE YOU BOTH FOR IT. THE 6 I FOUND WERE BRILLIANT!
BOTTLEMART SHARKY'S OZ 7in7 DAY 12 JOURNAL
Written by Anna Tate – formerly known as Taser but now just Tired Tate
Stats for the day by Ray (of Sunshine ) Smithers
Course:Arno Bay to Whyalla (yes the very place Craig Emerson so successfully rapped about)
Distance: 152.1 km
Ride Time: 5 hours 13 min
Average speed:29.1km/h
Metres climbed: 650 metres
Temperature min:10 degrees
Temperature max:20 degrees
Wind direction:Cross tail wind out of the South West – turning into a light headwind post lunch
Tiny Dancer’s Special Stats:
After a day of reserve, preserve and conserve, Captain Pain came out not once but twice today. The first a 4 km pre nutrition smash out which would see him cover a decent incline solo with the following stats:
Average heart rate: 147 BPM
Power: 154 Watts
Average Speed: 35.7 km
The second was to come at the very end of the day when Tiny made a dash for the 60km sign possibly a little earlier than expected due to Whyalla’s enthusiastic use of 80km signs. His 1km sprint racked up the following stats:
Average Heart Rate: 156 BPM
Power:320 Watts
Average Speed: 41km
Road Kill Count inspired rather than captured by Rusty
1 x Skippy
3 x Snakes
12 x Shingle Back Lizards
1 x Red Panda (reported by April and Lucy)
1 x Red Frog – lost in transit from back pocket to Anna’s mouth
The problem with Faff
5:34 am – my alarm goes off and as usual it takes me a couple of minutes to register where I am and who I am with. This morning I wake to something a little different, I’m in my own room in my own bed with no Smiddy riders in view. It’s a little weird. In the last two weeks, even my trips to the yellow room are typically shared with Mel so to be alone is something new.
This morning we’re not due to leave until 8 am, so 5:30am may sound a little early, but trust me there is an art to preparing for riding, and after 11 days I am yet to perfect it. While I may not have makeup, hair or wardrobe decisions to contend with, there seems to be a lot of other stuff to do and inevitably I enter the faff zone.
So far I have been in good company, Sharky, Tiny Dancer (surprisingly) and JL (perhaps not so surprisingly) have also struggled to meet team kick off times, but they have sharpened their game of late so today I have pre-emptively set my alarm early enough to factor in an appropriate level of faff.
It will come as no surprise to those of you that know me that in this 2.5 hours I only managed the following - put on outfit, freshly washed, sorted and laid out by Ray, prepared and ate two weetbix, applied chammy cream, jammed all stuff (2/3 not used) into one bulging bag and fetched my bike.
It’s an interesting time in the ride. We’re close to the end but not close enough to celebrate. We’re far enough from the start to taste success and with around 600 km of the 2530 km there is a quiet confidence building in the group that we can and will do this. To date not one rider has squished themselves into the Gorilla (not a jeep) mobile for some van time, an impressive feat particularly for the three who already had The Smiddy Challenge under their belts when we met up in Perth. As my legs start to tire and I take more and more shelter within the grupetto my respect and gratitude to the rest of the team continues to grow.
We roll out on time (sort of) to the ringing of Kevy’s bell by the lovely Bev from the Hotel Arno, who also presented us with a $110 donation collected from locals at the bar. Our sincere thanks again for your incredible generosity.
Both the warm up and winds are kind and a rhythm is soon found. Today we are continuing along the Eyre Peninsula. I don’t know why, but for some reason I thought the entire ride was through the desert – neither details nor geography being my strong points- so this section which features corners and coastlines as well as mostly favourable winds has been sheer bliss. Wattle and other flowers line the roads, the hills are rolling, the shrubbery green. It’s beautiful, but I don’t think my appreciation would have been so great had I not recently experienced the unique nothingness of the desert.
So much to be thankful for
Gratitude is recognised as one of the keys to happiness and in my quest for zen in my everyday life I will often note down what I am grateful for at the end of each day (ok mostly I just do it in my head, but I do do it). Perhaps it is because you really appreciate the little things when you are on journey like this or perhaps it is because journeys like these really highlight what we have to be grateful for. Whatever the reason today’s list is particularly long.
Today I am grateful for:
• Waking up in my own bed thanks to the hospitality of strangers
• A microwave to warm my weetbix - a close second to mint jelly in terms of excitement levels
• A clean kit smelling ever so slightly of lavender thanks to the washing wonders of Ray
• The yellow room call coming just as I was reaching my outer bladder limits
• Arriving at both morning tea and lunch to find day bags out, food on table and cold drinks on hand thanks to Gorilla and Kevvy
• The chance to really get to know Sharky as our great story swap continues
• Changing scenery and roads that bend
• Craig for taking care of all comms between the group and Gorilla mobile and ensuring our safety
• Gentle pushes from Tiny and Sharky
• Fingers pointing me where to go for best wind shelter in the group
• Significantly lower road kill count
• Rusty with his ever watchful eyes for first realising that I was struggling in the afternoon session and finding me a better spot in the grupetto and then spotting that a rubbing brake pad may be part of the reason for my slump
• JL and Ray for pulling off a skilful move to fix said brake pad while travelling at high speeds
• Craig for providing and Mel for installing a plug into my handle bars
• The chance to ride with and learn from such strong riders who continue to generously and patiently share their knowledge
• Messages of support from the real world
• The abundance of pick and mix and other lollies in South Australia
• Rusty's wife Robyn and their two gorgeous girls April and Lucy for their pom pom welcome into Whyalla
• Kev and Gorilla for once again putting their bodies on the line in order to secure accommodation at a special price at a particularly special place
• Real coffee at a real cafe
• Tiny dancer pulling a classic Dancer move and shouting a surprise dessert for the whole group
• Isocol and its healing if painful ways
• Hot shower, warm beds
• Mel for showing me how females survive cycling
• The chance to be part of something truly remarkable
• Witnessing, reflecting on and being part of true mateship
Mateship
Since beginning my Smiddy journey earlier this year I have learnt a lot about a lot of things. Some lessons have been relatively straight forward and expected such as the importance of not wearing underwear and that aero bars are more than just chocolaty goodness. Some however have caught me by surprise. The power and importance of mateship is one of these life lessons that Smiddy has highlighted and amplified. This actually makes sense given that it is the close mateship between Adam and Sharky that inspired Smiling for Smiddy.
Here on the ride the power of mateship is abundantly clear. I see it every day. The real hugs shared between JL and Craig at the end of particularly tough sessions where others may not have noticed their struggles, the sharing of each and every muesli bar by Rusty and Ray, the on again off again relationship between Tiny and Captain Pain.
It's not just from within the group. The mateship from outside has also been incredible. From Mel’s great mate who has created a message for her for each and every day of her rides, Sharky's mates Cathy and Michael for dressing up 20 trees across the Nullarbor with signs of support, my own friends and loved ones for their endless encouragement.
Inspiring is a word that is used often to describe this trip and its members. Like many of you I have been inspired - to be more adventurous, to do something for others, to be fitter, stronger and to eat more protein. To be a better mate is my latest addition to this list.
It’s very late and if these legs have any hope of making it through tomorrow I better get them to bed.
Cheers
Taters
Amendment to Day 11
(Public Apology from the Author Tiny Dancer to Rusty Carbo Balls)
You see as a test to all readers of this journal not a single reader noted that the Ultimate Smiddy 7 in 7 rider formula totaled only 7/8ths. That is because a giant 6 foot 6 inches was missing from the equation. Somewhere in the fatigue and delirium post ride journal writing there seems to have been a slight editing error and Rusty’s attribute went AWOL. Perhaps subconsciously his omission occurred as a square up for the nickname that now seems to have become a permanent fixture in my life.
So here it is:
Rusty Carbo Balls adds to our equation the ultimate team man or domestique. He is the go-to man for all problem solving, he is totally selfless and constantly assisting the team all day long. Strong on the bike and very much the Jens Voight of this team. Helps all day long but when given permission from the Director is strong enough on the bike to chase the stage win.
Stats for the day by Ray (of Sunshine ) Smithers
Course:Arno Bay to Whyalla (yes the very place Craig Emerson so successfully rapped about)
Distance: 152.1 km
Ride Time: 5 hours 13 min
Average speed:29.1km/h
Metres climbed: 650 metres
Temperature min:10 degrees
Temperature max:20 degrees
Wind direction:Cross tail wind out of the South West – turning into a light headwind post lunch
Tiny Dancer’s Special Stats:
After a day of reserve, preserve and conserve, Captain Pain came out not once but twice today. The first a 4 km pre nutrition smash out which would see him cover a decent incline solo with the following stats:
Average heart rate: 147 BPM
Power: 154 Watts
Average Speed: 35.7 km
The second was to come at the very end of the day when Tiny made a dash for the 60km sign possibly a little earlier than expected due to Whyalla’s enthusiastic use of 80km signs. His 1km sprint racked up the following stats:
Average Heart Rate: 156 BPM
Power:320 Watts
Average Speed: 41km
Road Kill Count inspired rather than captured by Rusty
1 x Skippy
3 x Snakes
12 x Shingle Back Lizards
1 x Red Panda (reported by April and Lucy)
1 x Red Frog – lost in transit from back pocket to Anna’s mouth
The problem with Faff
5:34 am – my alarm goes off and as usual it takes me a couple of minutes to register where I am and who I am with. This morning I wake to something a little different, I’m in my own room in my own bed with no Smiddy riders in view. It’s a little weird. In the last two weeks, even my trips to the yellow room are typically shared with Mel so to be alone is something new.
This morning we’re not due to leave until 8 am, so 5:30am may sound a little early, but trust me there is an art to preparing for riding, and after 11 days I am yet to perfect it. While I may not have makeup, hair or wardrobe decisions to contend with, there seems to be a lot of other stuff to do and inevitably I enter the faff zone.
So far I have been in good company, Sharky, Tiny Dancer (surprisingly) and JL (perhaps not so surprisingly) have also struggled to meet team kick off times, but they have sharpened their game of late so today I have pre-emptively set my alarm early enough to factor in an appropriate level of faff.
It will come as no surprise to those of you that know me that in this 2.5 hours I only managed the following - put on outfit, freshly washed, sorted and laid out by Ray, prepared and ate two weetbix, applied chammy cream, jammed all stuff (2/3 not used) into one bulging bag and fetched my bike.
It’s an interesting time in the ride. We’re close to the end but not close enough to celebrate. We’re far enough from the start to taste success and with around 600 km of the 2530 km there is a quiet confidence building in the group that we can and will do this. To date not one rider has squished themselves into the Gorilla (not a jeep) mobile for some van time, an impressive feat particularly for the three who already had The Smiddy Challenge under their belts when we met up in Perth. As my legs start to tire and I take more and more shelter within the grupetto my respect and gratitude to the rest of the team continues to grow.
We roll out on time (sort of) to the ringing of Kevy’s bell by the lovely Bev from the Hotel Arno, who also presented us with a $110 donation collected from locals at the bar. Our sincere thanks again for your incredible generosity.
Both the warm up and winds are kind and a rhythm is soon found. Today we are continuing along the Eyre Peninsula. I don’t know why, but for some reason I thought the entire ride was through the desert – neither details nor geography being my strong points- so this section which features corners and coastlines as well as mostly favourable winds has been sheer bliss. Wattle and other flowers line the roads, the hills are rolling, the shrubbery green. It’s beautiful, but I don’t think my appreciation would have been so great had I not recently experienced the unique nothingness of the desert.
So much to be thankful for
Gratitude is recognised as one of the keys to happiness and in my quest for zen in my everyday life I will often note down what I am grateful for at the end of each day (ok mostly I just do it in my head, but I do do it). Perhaps it is because you really appreciate the little things when you are on journey like this or perhaps it is because journeys like these really highlight what we have to be grateful for. Whatever the reason today’s list is particularly long.
Today I am grateful for:
• Waking up in my own bed thanks to the hospitality of strangers
• A microwave to warm my weetbix - a close second to mint jelly in terms of excitement levels
• A clean kit smelling ever so slightly of lavender thanks to the washing wonders of Ray
• The yellow room call coming just as I was reaching my outer bladder limits
• Arriving at both morning tea and lunch to find day bags out, food on table and cold drinks on hand thanks to Gorilla and Kevvy
• The chance to really get to know Sharky as our great story swap continues
• Changing scenery and roads that bend
• Craig for taking care of all comms between the group and Gorilla mobile and ensuring our safety
• Gentle pushes from Tiny and Sharky
• Fingers pointing me where to go for best wind shelter in the group
• Significantly lower road kill count
• Rusty with his ever watchful eyes for first realising that I was struggling in the afternoon session and finding me a better spot in the grupetto and then spotting that a rubbing brake pad may be part of the reason for my slump
• JL and Ray for pulling off a skilful move to fix said brake pad while travelling at high speeds
• Craig for providing and Mel for installing a plug into my handle bars
• The chance to ride with and learn from such strong riders who continue to generously and patiently share their knowledge
• Messages of support from the real world
• The abundance of pick and mix and other lollies in South Australia
• Rusty's wife Robyn and their two gorgeous girls April and Lucy for their pom pom welcome into Whyalla
• Kev and Gorilla for once again putting their bodies on the line in order to secure accommodation at a special price at a particularly special place
• Real coffee at a real cafe
• Tiny dancer pulling a classic Dancer move and shouting a surprise dessert for the whole group
• Isocol and its healing if painful ways
• Hot shower, warm beds
• Mel for showing me how females survive cycling
• The chance to be part of something truly remarkable
• Witnessing, reflecting on and being part of true mateship
Mateship
Since beginning my Smiddy journey earlier this year I have learnt a lot about a lot of things. Some lessons have been relatively straight forward and expected such as the importance of not wearing underwear and that aero bars are more than just chocolaty goodness. Some however have caught me by surprise. The power and importance of mateship is one of these life lessons that Smiddy has highlighted and amplified. This actually makes sense given that it is the close mateship between Adam and Sharky that inspired Smiling for Smiddy.
Here on the ride the power of mateship is abundantly clear. I see it every day. The real hugs shared between JL and Craig at the end of particularly tough sessions where others may not have noticed their struggles, the sharing of each and every muesli bar by Rusty and Ray, the on again off again relationship between Tiny and Captain Pain.
It's not just from within the group. The mateship from outside has also been incredible. From Mel’s great mate who has created a message for her for each and every day of her rides, Sharky's mates Cathy and Michael for dressing up 20 trees across the Nullarbor with signs of support, my own friends and loved ones for their endless encouragement.
Inspiring is a word that is used often to describe this trip and its members. Like many of you I have been inspired - to be more adventurous, to do something for others, to be fitter, stronger and to eat more protein. To be a better mate is my latest addition to this list.
It’s very late and if these legs have any hope of making it through tomorrow I better get them to bed.
Cheers
Taters
Amendment to Day 11
(Public Apology from the Author Tiny Dancer to Rusty Carbo Balls)
You see as a test to all readers of this journal not a single reader noted that the Ultimate Smiddy 7 in 7 rider formula totaled only 7/8ths. That is because a giant 6 foot 6 inches was missing from the equation. Somewhere in the fatigue and delirium post ride journal writing there seems to have been a slight editing error and Rusty’s attribute went AWOL. Perhaps subconsciously his omission occurred as a square up for the nickname that now seems to have become a permanent fixture in my life.
So here it is:
Rusty Carbo Balls adds to our equation the ultimate team man or domestique. He is the go-to man for all problem solving, he is totally selfless and constantly assisting the team all day long. Strong on the bike and very much the Jens Voight of this team. Helps all day long but when given permission from the Director is strong enough on the bike to chase the stage win.
Monday 24 September 2012
BOTTLEMART SHARKY'S OZ 7in7 DAY 11 JOURNAL
Written by Tiny Dancer ( unfortunately I think that is going to stick) thanks again to Rusty Balls for that one.
Editing, gratefully received from many.
Stats for the day by Ray ( I found my legs today ) Smithers
Course:Port Lincoln to Arno Bay
Distance: 117.6km
Ride Time:3 hours 21 min
Average speed:35km/h ( Ray / Craig in Smash-fest Finish)
Metres climbed:529 metres
Temperature min:18 degrees
Temperature max:24 degrees
Wind direction:South Westerly turning to South in the afternoon.
Tiny Dancer Stats:
Average heart rate: 109 BPM
Max heart rate: 153 BPM
(Reserve / Conserve and Preserve in action all day folks)
Average cadence: 88 RPM
Road Kill Count by Mel, Rusty, Ray & Baby G.
4 x Skippy’s
3 x Snakes
9 x Shingle Back Lizards
2 x Crows
A SLEEP IN TO REMEBER
After several early starts to avoid unfavourable wind conditions what a pleasure it was to stay in a comfortable bed for some very valuable 8-9 hours of sleep. On the back of 236km the previous day it was indeed “GOLD” for riders and road crew alike.
A special thanks to Michael our very generous host at the Port Lincoln(Bottlemart) Hotel. Michael donated to the entire team, both room accommodation and breakfast which was extremely well received by the tired riders and crew on the back end of a long day in the saddle. The LMG and Bottlemart Hotel chain have been fantastic supporters of both this years 7 in 7 journey and for the past 4 years. Their financial assistance for 2012 allowed us earlier in the trip to enjoy a hot shower and a bed at the end of each day of being smashed by headwinds across the Nullabor.
The winds have certainly become more favourable since a member of the team who shall remain anonymous has stopped SHOUTING AT IT. ( picture Lieutenant Dan on the mast of the “Jenny “ in the movie Forest Gump)
PRESERVE / RESERVE / CONSERVE
This was the overriding theme for the day as we starting preparing for day 11 on the road. After a great breakfast the riders gathered in the car park ready for the rather unusual short day of 117km, at the also unusual start time of a very civilised 10am.
A brief coastal shower passed over at 10am so that was waited out by the riders in the Bottlemart Hotel drive through. It was here that the drive through sensor got an annual record number of hits for 10 am on a Sunday morning much to the annoyance of the attendant on duty, sorry about that mate.
Departure was delayed by the rain for only 10 minutes or so and at 10.10 am we rolled out for a day of Preserving / Conserving and Reserving both our energy stores and our under carriages. We eased out of town single file for the initial part of the day with a blustery side wind on our left shoulder and some spectacular coastal scenery to the right. The “single up” routine lasted for 15 km until the traffic thinned out and the road fattened up. We left the coastline after 20km and the wind remained strong at 20-35km cross tail from our left until the 40 km mark where it turned and gave us even greater assistance.
A NEW “YELLOW ROOM” MORNING RECORD
Today a new record was set with 20.7 km being reached before the first “Yellow Room “call came from the group. This morning’s yellow room was held adjacent to a stunning field of yellow canola plants with a backdrop of treeless hills to our left. From my vantage point all I could see was yellow so more fluids were added to all bidons.
It was a fairly uneventful next hour on the tarmac prior to lunch break at 51km excepting a few notable mentions. Firstly at 38.3 km and 43.4 km Sharkman was seen at the front both free-wheeling and soft pedalling aided and abetted by Rusty Balls. For all of you who have been in a Grupetto, this is of course, once witnessed and verified as true and correct, always going to make it into this blog. The second event was the 11.4 km turn Sharky did on the front, ( a 7 in 7 2012 record thus far) thanks to 2 enormous lamb shanks consumed the previous night.
Protein Vs Carbs ( the debate rages on)
Proteins are biochemical compounds consisting of one or more polypeptides typically folded into a globular or fibrous form, facilitating a biological function.
( Wikipedia)
There have been great discussions ongoing in the grupetto regarding the dietary intake requirements for endurance cycling events such as the one we currently find ourselves in. It was personally noted that when Sharky’s combined butt cheek width was equal to his seat post width that he may actually be eating up his own body to fuel the ride. So it was suggested that perhaps an increase in protein may be of assistance to increasing his energy levels with the added bonus of avoiding any further shrinking of his buttocks.
A quick text to Kerry Leech a Dietician at Eatsmart Nutrition in Brisbane who look after the Reds and Broncos confirmed that endurance events such as the 7 in 7 require the consumption of 1.2 – 1.6 grams of protein per kg of body weight per day. That is actually not that easy to get on the road, so you need to go out of your way to actually get that amount.
So the Sharkman has been introduced to the Tiny Dancer diet and his recent trend to a more carnivorous diet was surely responsible for the record turn on the front today whilst the soft pedaling and free-wheeling would most likely be attributable to being beside Rusty “Carbo” Boy at the time. The rest of the crew have joined the “Dancer Diet” and the protein recovery protocol, so it’s now milks all round at the end of each day.
THE ULTIMATE 7 IN 7 RIDER ( THE 2012 FORMULA)
Whilst spending a little bit of time on the road one does get to thinking some strange thoughts to dwindle away the km. So there it was, popped into my head to replace the rather monotonous and continuous staring at another man’s backside, a thought regarding that we would surely end up with one hell of a bike rider if we were to combine a strength or attribute from each individual in this group.
Under the Radar Ray would bring the most needed skill of tactical nous as he always knows wind direction, distance to go, speed and terrain.
Baby Gorilla would bring a kick arse sprint finish to the line, often the harder the day the better the sprint.
Mel would add some steely determination so the preparation and work was done when needed on time every time.
Anna (Tazer) Tate would add some junk yard dog into the mix so that when under pressure there was some mongrel there to get you through.
Big JL would bring the strong lead out power to unleash the team sprinter and reel in the breaks going up the road.
Yours truly AKA Tiny Dancer would throw some deception into the mix, so opposing riders would not know whether Captain Sensible or Captain Pain was showing up.
That brings us finally to the Sharkman. Those of you who know him will have your own ideas regarding his best attribute / quality. But for me it is Focus. He has set himself some considerable goals and although these are both physically and mentally challenging he remains unwavering in his focus to his cause and to the memory of a mate.
In summary a rider made up of 1/8 of each of the above elements would surely be a formidable force on the road.
Afternoon Smash Fest
The last 68km after our lunch break were assisted by ever increasing tailwinds. The wind gusts were still occasionally from the rear /side but we enjoyed some considerable time with it gusting to 40-50km right up our hoops.
First drinks after lunch were brought on by the first official flat tyre of the journey. Special mention to Maxxis refuse tyres which are the official sponsor of Smiddy events. Mel, Sharky and Big JL all have done over 3500 km on the same tyre set without issue. No such luck for our Italian obsessed friend from the North, who to no-one’s surprise suffered the first flat of the journey caused by a shard of glass penetrating the rubber of , yes you guessed it a product of an unnamed Italian tyre company at 79.84 km into the day. Total distance into the journey for the Italians was 1886km, Maxxis refuse still going strong at double the distance. ( you join the dots…………………)
After a brief water refill at 20km to go, Sharky offered Under the Radar Ray $20 to his fundraising total if he made the most of the 40-50km gusting tailwind and time trialed the last 20km into Arno Bay. Ray immediately sold his soul to all around seeking assistance to his fundraising cause. After a brief conversation between the 2 captains it was Reserve, Conserve and Preserve that one the day. So Captain pain was not playing today. So Rusty Carbo Balls shot off down the road joined by Ray ( I have good legs today) Smithers, Big JL and joined in a last minute decision made by Baby Gorilla.
The remainder of the grupetto rolled in at a leisurely 40-45km/hr with heart rates steady at 110 beats per minute. Carbo Balls bonked early in the Smash Fest and fell back to assist the Preserve, Conserve and Reserve group cover the remaining distance into Arno Bay. A quick photo opp at the friendly Dolphin and we were on our way, mainly sideways being blown around by the same 50km gusting winds, to the Arno Bay Hotel. It was here that we met David and Bev the owners of the Hotel who were amazingly generous and supportive of our cause and arranged accommodation in their lovely restored Hotel by the ocean side.
A shower followed by a short afternoon snooze and mission accomplished. The day was done on the bikes and all except The Italian Job had managed to Preserve, Conserve and Reserve themselves for the remaining 4 days of our journey.
Bev arranged a Sunday evening roast for us at the Hotel dining room which was sensational. An eerie shriek filled the room when Tazer realized there was mint sauce to spread upon her roast lamb. This was spine chilling and loud. A second shrieking noise was then heard when JL heard Bev announce that her specialty was Ice Cream Nut sundaes. So after a Bevy of orders ( sorry Bev could not help myself there) bellies were full and a quick photo with Bev ( resplendent in her new Smiddy T shirt) and signed canvas, and it was upstairs for the nightly journal reading and some more sleep for most, but some journal writing for others.
Arno Bay Smash Fest Stats
Stats for the Smash Fest by Ray ( I found my legs today ) Smithers
Course:Last 18.5 km into Arno Bay
Distance: 18.5 km
Ride Time:22:43
Average speed:48.9km/h ( Ray / Craig in Smash-fest Finish)
Top Speed:63.4 km/h
Wind direction:Smashing South Westerly gusting to 50km/hr
Heart Rate:High enough for Baby Gorilla to still taste his lunch
The “Hey Guys” Vs “Awesome” Johhny Leyshon Day 11 count.
At the risk of not having much to write about I was on the lookout for some fill up. So it was decided after a brief breakfast conversation with some anonymous fellow riders ( a good journalist does not reveal his sources), that I would tally Johnny Leyshon’s output of apparently his 2 favorite sayings.
My gut told me it was likely to be “Awesome” and my protein enriched stomach was indeed accurate in it’s prediction with the final tally being:
“Hey Guys” being heard some 16 times but completely overwhelmed by the 33 “Awesome’s” heard through out the day with a late crescendo coming at the evening meal when JL consumed Bev’s customized Nut Sundae.
So to wrap up the day it was mission accomplished Day 11 done and dusted and riders and crew recharged ready to tackle Day 12.
Honorable Mentions
a. Cadence: (rpm)
b. Johnny Leyshon and Rusty Carbo Balls think this refers to a girl’s name.
c. Sharky used to know her in the eighties and nineties but has forgotten her phone number.
d. Mel went to school with a girl that had that name.
e. Under the Radar and Tiny Dancer are old school 90 plus.
f. Tazer now knows it’s not a girls name but thinks garmin is a boys name.
g. Baby Gorilla likes all girls names.
2. Our fabulous road crew who pander to our every needs. I have served on the other side and their work is often under valued and unrecognized but that is certainly not the case in this grupetto. Thanks boys.
3. Our families and work mates who assist greatly in allowing us to be here. No Deb I did not put this point especially in here so you will let me ride Tasmania next year Ray and Rusty made me do it so they can smooth things over with their wives.
4. You guys for taking the time to read our journal. It was a hard act to follow after the great journal writing over the past 10 days especially from someone who thinks in bullet points.
If you are reading this and contemplating participating in a Smiddy event I cannot recommend the experience highly enough. I am enjoying every minute especially the painful minutes and would like to thank Mark for allowing me to join him on his journey this year.
To my fellow riders, it is a pleasure to share the road in your company and look forward to more laughs over the coming days.
Bye for now,
Tiny Dancer out.
Editing, gratefully received from many.
Stats for the day by Ray ( I found my legs today ) Smithers
Course:Port Lincoln to Arno Bay
Distance: 117.6km
Ride Time:3 hours 21 min
Average speed:35km/h ( Ray / Craig in Smash-fest Finish)
Metres climbed:529 metres
Temperature min:18 degrees
Temperature max:24 degrees
Wind direction:South Westerly turning to South in the afternoon.
Tiny Dancer Stats:
Average heart rate: 109 BPM
Max heart rate: 153 BPM
(Reserve / Conserve and Preserve in action all day folks)
Average cadence: 88 RPM
Road Kill Count by Mel, Rusty, Ray & Baby G.
4 x Skippy’s
3 x Snakes
9 x Shingle Back Lizards
2 x Crows
A SLEEP IN TO REMEBER
After several early starts to avoid unfavourable wind conditions what a pleasure it was to stay in a comfortable bed for some very valuable 8-9 hours of sleep. On the back of 236km the previous day it was indeed “GOLD” for riders and road crew alike.
A special thanks to Michael our very generous host at the Port Lincoln(Bottlemart) Hotel. Michael donated to the entire team, both room accommodation and breakfast which was extremely well received by the tired riders and crew on the back end of a long day in the saddle. The LMG and Bottlemart Hotel chain have been fantastic supporters of both this years 7 in 7 journey and for the past 4 years. Their financial assistance for 2012 allowed us earlier in the trip to enjoy a hot shower and a bed at the end of each day of being smashed by headwinds across the Nullabor.
The winds have certainly become more favourable since a member of the team who shall remain anonymous has stopped SHOUTING AT IT. ( picture Lieutenant Dan on the mast of the “Jenny “ in the movie Forest Gump)
PRESERVE / RESERVE / CONSERVE
This was the overriding theme for the day as we starting preparing for day 11 on the road. After a great breakfast the riders gathered in the car park ready for the rather unusual short day of 117km, at the also unusual start time of a very civilised 10am.
A brief coastal shower passed over at 10am so that was waited out by the riders in the Bottlemart Hotel drive through. It was here that the drive through sensor got an annual record number of hits for 10 am on a Sunday morning much to the annoyance of the attendant on duty, sorry about that mate.
Departure was delayed by the rain for only 10 minutes or so and at 10.10 am we rolled out for a day of Preserving / Conserving and Reserving both our energy stores and our under carriages. We eased out of town single file for the initial part of the day with a blustery side wind on our left shoulder and some spectacular coastal scenery to the right. The “single up” routine lasted for 15 km until the traffic thinned out and the road fattened up. We left the coastline after 20km and the wind remained strong at 20-35km cross tail from our left until the 40 km mark where it turned and gave us even greater assistance.
A NEW “YELLOW ROOM” MORNING RECORD
Today a new record was set with 20.7 km being reached before the first “Yellow Room “call came from the group. This morning’s yellow room was held adjacent to a stunning field of yellow canola plants with a backdrop of treeless hills to our left. From my vantage point all I could see was yellow so more fluids were added to all bidons.
It was a fairly uneventful next hour on the tarmac prior to lunch break at 51km excepting a few notable mentions. Firstly at 38.3 km and 43.4 km Sharkman was seen at the front both free-wheeling and soft pedalling aided and abetted by Rusty Balls. For all of you who have been in a Grupetto, this is of course, once witnessed and verified as true and correct, always going to make it into this blog. The second event was the 11.4 km turn Sharky did on the front, ( a 7 in 7 2012 record thus far) thanks to 2 enormous lamb shanks consumed the previous night.
Protein Vs Carbs ( the debate rages on)
Proteins are biochemical compounds consisting of one or more polypeptides typically folded into a globular or fibrous form, facilitating a biological function.
( Wikipedia)
There have been great discussions ongoing in the grupetto regarding the dietary intake requirements for endurance cycling events such as the one we currently find ourselves in. It was personally noted that when Sharky’s combined butt cheek width was equal to his seat post width that he may actually be eating up his own body to fuel the ride. So it was suggested that perhaps an increase in protein may be of assistance to increasing his energy levels with the added bonus of avoiding any further shrinking of his buttocks.
A quick text to Kerry Leech a Dietician at Eatsmart Nutrition in Brisbane who look after the Reds and Broncos confirmed that endurance events such as the 7 in 7 require the consumption of 1.2 – 1.6 grams of protein per kg of body weight per day. That is actually not that easy to get on the road, so you need to go out of your way to actually get that amount.
So the Sharkman has been introduced to the Tiny Dancer diet and his recent trend to a more carnivorous diet was surely responsible for the record turn on the front today whilst the soft pedaling and free-wheeling would most likely be attributable to being beside Rusty “Carbo” Boy at the time. The rest of the crew have joined the “Dancer Diet” and the protein recovery protocol, so it’s now milks all round at the end of each day.
THE ULTIMATE 7 IN 7 RIDER ( THE 2012 FORMULA)
Whilst spending a little bit of time on the road one does get to thinking some strange thoughts to dwindle away the km. So there it was, popped into my head to replace the rather monotonous and continuous staring at another man’s backside, a thought regarding that we would surely end up with one hell of a bike rider if we were to combine a strength or attribute from each individual in this group.
Under the Radar Ray would bring the most needed skill of tactical nous as he always knows wind direction, distance to go, speed and terrain.
Baby Gorilla would bring a kick arse sprint finish to the line, often the harder the day the better the sprint.
Mel would add some steely determination so the preparation and work was done when needed on time every time.
Anna (Tazer) Tate would add some junk yard dog into the mix so that when under pressure there was some mongrel there to get you through.
Big JL would bring the strong lead out power to unleash the team sprinter and reel in the breaks going up the road.
Yours truly AKA Tiny Dancer would throw some deception into the mix, so opposing riders would not know whether Captain Sensible or Captain Pain was showing up.
That brings us finally to the Sharkman. Those of you who know him will have your own ideas regarding his best attribute / quality. But for me it is Focus. He has set himself some considerable goals and although these are both physically and mentally challenging he remains unwavering in his focus to his cause and to the memory of a mate.
In summary a rider made up of 1/8 of each of the above elements would surely be a formidable force on the road.
Afternoon Smash Fest
The last 68km after our lunch break were assisted by ever increasing tailwinds. The wind gusts were still occasionally from the rear /side but we enjoyed some considerable time with it gusting to 40-50km right up our hoops.
First drinks after lunch were brought on by the first official flat tyre of the journey. Special mention to Maxxis refuse tyres which are the official sponsor of Smiddy events. Mel, Sharky and Big JL all have done over 3500 km on the same tyre set without issue. No such luck for our Italian obsessed friend from the North, who to no-one’s surprise suffered the first flat of the journey caused by a shard of glass penetrating the rubber of , yes you guessed it a product of an unnamed Italian tyre company at 79.84 km into the day. Total distance into the journey for the Italians was 1886km, Maxxis refuse still going strong at double the distance. ( you join the dots…………………)
After a brief water refill at 20km to go, Sharky offered Under the Radar Ray $20 to his fundraising total if he made the most of the 40-50km gusting tailwind and time trialed the last 20km into Arno Bay. Ray immediately sold his soul to all around seeking assistance to his fundraising cause. After a brief conversation between the 2 captains it was Reserve, Conserve and Preserve that one the day. So Captain pain was not playing today. So Rusty Carbo Balls shot off down the road joined by Ray ( I have good legs today) Smithers, Big JL and joined in a last minute decision made by Baby Gorilla.
The remainder of the grupetto rolled in at a leisurely 40-45km/hr with heart rates steady at 110 beats per minute. Carbo Balls bonked early in the Smash Fest and fell back to assist the Preserve, Conserve and Reserve group cover the remaining distance into Arno Bay. A quick photo opp at the friendly Dolphin and we were on our way, mainly sideways being blown around by the same 50km gusting winds, to the Arno Bay Hotel. It was here that we met David and Bev the owners of the Hotel who were amazingly generous and supportive of our cause and arranged accommodation in their lovely restored Hotel by the ocean side.
A shower followed by a short afternoon snooze and mission accomplished. The day was done on the bikes and all except The Italian Job had managed to Preserve, Conserve and Reserve themselves for the remaining 4 days of our journey.
Bev arranged a Sunday evening roast for us at the Hotel dining room which was sensational. An eerie shriek filled the room when Tazer realized there was mint sauce to spread upon her roast lamb. This was spine chilling and loud. A second shrieking noise was then heard when JL heard Bev announce that her specialty was Ice Cream Nut sundaes. So after a Bevy of orders ( sorry Bev could not help myself there) bellies were full and a quick photo with Bev ( resplendent in her new Smiddy T shirt) and signed canvas, and it was upstairs for the nightly journal reading and some more sleep for most, but some journal writing for others.
Arno Bay Smash Fest Stats
Stats for the Smash Fest by Ray ( I found my legs today ) Smithers
Course:Last 18.5 km into Arno Bay
Distance: 18.5 km
Ride Time:22:43
Average speed:48.9km/h ( Ray / Craig in Smash-fest Finish)
Top Speed:63.4 km/h
Wind direction:Smashing South Westerly gusting to 50km/hr
Heart Rate:High enough for Baby Gorilla to still taste his lunch
The “Hey Guys” Vs “Awesome” Johhny Leyshon Day 11 count.
At the risk of not having much to write about I was on the lookout for some fill up. So it was decided after a brief breakfast conversation with some anonymous fellow riders ( a good journalist does not reveal his sources), that I would tally Johnny Leyshon’s output of apparently his 2 favorite sayings.
My gut told me it was likely to be “Awesome” and my protein enriched stomach was indeed accurate in it’s prediction with the final tally being:
“Hey Guys” being heard some 16 times but completely overwhelmed by the 33 “Awesome’s” heard through out the day with a late crescendo coming at the evening meal when JL consumed Bev’s customized Nut Sundae.
So to wrap up the day it was mission accomplished Day 11 done and dusted and riders and crew recharged ready to tackle Day 12.
Honorable Mentions
a. Cadence: (rpm)
b. Johnny Leyshon and Rusty Carbo Balls think this refers to a girl’s name.
c. Sharky used to know her in the eighties and nineties but has forgotten her phone number.
d. Mel went to school with a girl that had that name.
e. Under the Radar and Tiny Dancer are old school 90 plus.
f. Tazer now knows it’s not a girls name but thinks garmin is a boys name.
g. Baby Gorilla likes all girls names.
2. Our fabulous road crew who pander to our every needs. I have served on the other side and their work is often under valued and unrecognized but that is certainly not the case in this grupetto. Thanks boys.
3. Our families and work mates who assist greatly in allowing us to be here. No Deb I did not put this point especially in here so you will let me ride Tasmania next year Ray and Rusty made me do it so they can smooth things over with their wives.
4. You guys for taking the time to read our journal. It was a hard act to follow after the great journal writing over the past 10 days especially from someone who thinks in bullet points.
If you are reading this and contemplating participating in a Smiddy event I cannot recommend the experience highly enough. I am enjoying every minute especially the painful minutes and would like to thank Mark for allowing me to join him on his journey this year.
To my fellow riders, it is a pleasure to share the road in your company and look forward to more laughs over the coming days.
Bye for now,
Tiny Dancer out.
Sunday 23 September 2012
BOTTLEMART SHARKY'S OZ 7in7 DAY 10 JOURNAL
Written by Sharky (Lunch onwards, and Baby G from sunrise to Lunchtime)
Stats for the day by Raymond “I Love Telstra” Smith (Stat's man is out of control!)
Course: Port Kenny to Port Lincoln
Distance: 236 km's
Ride Time: 7 hours 36 min
Average speed: 30.8km/h
Metres climbed: 1157 metres
Max elevation: 130 metres
Temperature min: 10 degrees
Temperature max: 28 degrees
Wind direction: Every which way (Easterly, Westerly, Southerly, Northerly, all over the shop, blustery with wind gusts up to 50km/h.)
Max Speed: 72.4 km/h descending into Port Lincoln, also fastest speed of entire trip.
Best 10km splits: After lunch when wind direction changed to a 40km/h tailwind was 44.2 and the next 10km leg was at an average of 44.4km/h with a time of 13min 30sec.
Most 10km splits over 30km/h average was 12
Max Cadence: 205 by Under the Radar Ray.
Average Heart-rate for Tiny Dancer 116 beats per minute (Tiny is not human!)
Average Cadence: for Tiny was 86 rpm
Road Kill Count
As recorded by Mel Speare, with bell rung occasionally by Rust Bucket Conway and spotting provided by the whole bunch.
23x Shingleback Lizards
4x Skippy
3x Snakes
1x Bearded Dragon
1x Wombat
1x Crow
1x Currawong
1x Galah
Special Mention to one undead shingleback lizard with attitude that we spotted in the middle of the road. It broke from a slow waddle across the bitumen to quickly turn and attempt to attack Rusty Balls flying past at 52kmh with a wide open mouth, no wonder we are seeing these things squished all over the roads.
A Special Road Kill Count by Connor Speare (Hell Mel's Son, who did this in honour of his Mum on his way to a camping expedition with the family)
From Dalby to St George
67x Kangaroo,1x Snake, 2x Pigs, 1x Bluetongue Lizard, 2x Cows, 5x Rabbits,1x Black UFO, 2x Crows, 7x Bags of Bones
An excellent effort here from Connor. Mum is proud of your effort and enthusiasm and I am sure Andy Schindler would be impressed that his legacy is living on with the next generation.
Hi guys, Sharky asked for my help with this journal, hope you enjoy. Baby G.
This morning I awoke in my swag to a dark starry sky, something the small remote speck on the map of Port Kenny afforded us with in abundance. Now that we are less weary from our arduous headwind biased crossing of the Nullarbor it is a special treat to be camping out in our swags. Rolling them out in the campsite of the evening and rolling them up in the morning is a team effort, with plenty of bonding opportunities as Kevvy prefers the swags rolled up neat and tight – a two person task. The swags are also very luxurious, with a domed canvas cover, flyscreen, and as many of the crew expressed excitedly over dinner tonight some windows and hidden internal pocket spaces. A huge thank you must go to Mel for organising the swags, sleeping bags and ground sheets from OzTrail at a heavily discounted price and also arranging free freight to Esperance, this was a huge saving for the group. The swags are an opportunity for the big long blokes like Rusty to stretch out the legs free from the confines of the short single motel beds. They’re also an opportunity for the lighter delicate sleepers like Tiny Dancer to seek refuge from the snorers and position their swags as far away from big Johnny Leyshon as possible.
After enjoying the stars for a moment it was time for the usual breakfast routine and preparation for the days riding. There was also a stunning sunrise (my favourite part of the day) as the golden orb ascended in the East and cast a warm peachy glow onto the darks clouds in the Northwest.
In the flurry of packing up camp we received a kind donation of $20 from the couple camping in the site next to us. We mustn’t have been such terrible neighbours even though our best most seasoned snorers were camped on their side of the grass and would have sounded like an army of tree loppers working through the night.
The honour of ringing the bell was bestowed on “Under the Weather Radar” Ray Smith for his dedication to laundry, weather forecasting and all things good. We then hit the road and Rusty Balls decided to cancel the neutral zone and get straight into the pace making. There were a few complaints about the speed so early, but it was me who was the first to crack and call the rotation of the groupetto to get the big diesel off the front. It was the first sign my legs were going to be bad today, probably the remnants of my run the previous evening with Sharky and Mel though the small seaside town of Port Kenny. We found it to be a gorgeous little spot with a jetty and some locals that heckled us from the veranda of the pub, but really not much else in the town. This was later explained by our resident Stats Man Ray to be a result of an aids virus plague in the 1930s. His weather stats are from the ever reliable Bureau of Meteorology but his local history is sourced from Wikipedia, maybe not so credible in this instance.
The next person to crack was Mel who called for the yellow room and the bunch rolled to a stop at just 9.5km, a new record. It was then also clearly evident that the tailwinds Ray had been predicting for the past to days were now blowing in a morning thunderstorm. For the next 40kms we were teased with the occasional rumble of thunder and flash of lightning ( a severe concern to someone as tall as Rusty) and sprinkled with some light rain as we were chased by black clouds. Tiny Dancer remarked that some of the clouds resembled “an x-ray of a giant colon and we were about to be dumped upon.”
Slightly further down the road we saw a quaint road side bakery stall. This got the attention of the wet groupetto as we all dreamed of our favourite café with hot coffee and fruit toast. We later found out Jeff and Kevvy didn’t resist their own temptations and dropped in to pick us up some fresh bread rolls for lunch.
Morning tea had us roll into the small picturesque seaside village of Elliston. Unfortunately our faithful road crew, the Two Ronnies, had picked the most uninviting spot for lunch, a windy as hell picnic table on the point, no shelter, stinking of rotting seaweed and an audience of enthusiastic seagulls who trying hard not to be blown away in their attempt in stealing some precious Sao’s with cheese and tomato. Although the scenery was truly spectacular, we quickly relocated to a better location on the suggestion of the bunch.
After rolling out of morning tea to more threatening rain, a new yellow room record call was made by Sharky, at only 5km! This turned out to be a disrobing stop to remove the rain jackets that were now no longer necessary, but we all tried our best to squeeze out the last of morning tea refreshments.
The next 40kms saw blustery cross winds and some gradual climbing of the local rolling hills which JL likened to Dunedin. The going was tough due to the winds blowing strongly across our left shoulder, so much that the road wasn’t wide enough for us to form echelons sufficient to protect the whole bunch. Soon enough on a downhill grade with Tiny Dancer putting in one of his famous “Capitan” session with Rusty at his side I found myself out of position on the back of the bunch with nowhere to hide struggling to keep up in the gusty winds.
Thankfully it wasn’t long before we rolled into lunch at Sheringa, a small corner store/roadhouse/pub in the middle of seemingly nowhere that the Gorilla has scouted out during his trip west to Esperance to meet us before the ride. We were greeted by a bunch of the local sheilas who were all dressed up and gassed up heading off to the local football grand final for the “Roosters”, but not before a truckload of pre-game drinks. We got a donation and also a flash of skin when one of the "ladies" lifted her skirt to show us her garter belt. Clearly they were attracted to Rusty’s good looks (hey it’s not just Tazer who thinks so!). The store owner Kathy was very generous by allowing us to use the beer garden for our lunch stop, and she was repaid with a flurry of cappuccino orders from the riders. Kathy had been kind enough to donate a couple of cartons of soft drinks, juices and sport drinks to Jeff when he visited the first time. We have enjoyed these over the past ten days and were very appreciative when she again donated us some flavoured waters after lunch. A quick photo later and we were heading back out onto the road, and as Ray had promised, the blustering crosswind had tuned to become a howling tailwind. I will now hand you over to Sharky.
Baby Gorilla.
A 189km day turns into 236km's!
A huge thank you to Baby Gorilla for helping me with this journal today. Originally I had planned to write it solo as per usual, but when our 189km day to Wangary turned pear shaped due to no available camping accommodation, we decided to extend the ride a further 10km's into Coffin Bay, meaning a 200 km day and a 4:30pm finish. But it did not finish there, (please read below story) as we ended up cycling another 36km's into Port Lincoln. You see when we rolled out of Wangary, Kevvy and Jeff shot ahead of the group to see if there was suitable accommodation in Coffin Bay. The riders were left to make our way to the turn off to Coffin Bay, but once there we realised it meant turning into a 40km/h headwind for 11km's with half of it on dirt. Questions were asked from a passing motorist and we were told there was a tarmac road 10km's further along on the Flinders Highway. With our tailwind we made tracks for that road, got there and the sign said 14km's to Coffin Bay. By this stage we were at 210km's, it was now 4:30pm, very cold, no road crew, 8 very tired riders, and now a 14km stretch into those same headwinds. Coffin Bay was living up to it's name! Kevvy and Jeff were both called with no luck contacting them. Suggestions were flying thick and fast; stay here and camp on the side of the road or wait for road crew? It was Tiny who saved the day with the suggestion that we ride a further 30km's into Port Lincoln with a tailwind, which he said would take the same time as slogging into a headwind for 14km's. So messages were left on both Jeff and Kevvy's phones and off we went. Eventually they phoned us, cancelled accommodation arrangements in Coffin Bay and hightailed it and caught us 15km's from Port Lincoln. A quick stop to put on some warmer clothes from the vehicle and finally, after leaving at 6:45am, arriving at 6pm and 236 very long kilometres behind us, we rolled into the Grand Tasman Hotel, which coincidentally is linked to one of only 3 Bottlemart outlets in South Australia.
We love Bottlemart and manager Michael Griffiths
A huge thanks to Jeff, (Gorilla) who called the manager, Michael Griffiths, explained our situation, and that this event was sponsored by Bottlemart. Michael then kindly turned around and donated 4 rooms for the group to share, as well as throw in a free continental breakfast for everyone. So by the time we unloaded, checked in, stowed the bikes, showered, shopped for snacks, did our 2 days of washing for 10 people, called love one's, answered some emails, ordered and ate dinner at the Restaurant linked to the Hotel and read out Melissa's excellent journal, it was 10pm and time for some tired bodies to get some sleep. That is except for Baby G and I, who agreed to help me write the journal entry from the start today to lunch time, and I would do from lunch to the finish. It is now 11:30pm and I am sharing with Kevvy in a double bed, while poor Melissa is in a single bed right next to us, trying unsuccessfully to sleep while Kevvy coughs up a lung and I tap tap tap away on this apple wireless keyboard I have linked to the iPad.
So that was how that part of the afternoon and night finished, now for the report from lunch onwards. So rolling out of lunch we were gifted with an incredible 40km/h tailwind, with gusts blowing as hard as 50km/h. It was unbelievable changing day of wind, rain, sun, cold, and hot conditions throughout the day, but those 50km/h gusts that hit us at afternoon tea and then when rolling out will always be remembered.
Rather than give a rundown of events from lunchtime onwards I will instead do a few bullet points of events that happened throughout that long 6 hour strewn out afternoon into Port Lincoln.
Rolling out from lunch, full belly of food and instantly sitting on 40 plus kilometres an hour.
Rolling out of lunch and all the team feeling great except for 1 Shark.
Not wanting to ruin the moment so suck up the fact that my guts are full of chocolate milk, wraps, coffee, electrolyte, cashews and water and that it all wants to come back up.
Watching the girls on front clock their fastest ever speed on a flat section, with that kick-arse tailwind at 54km/h!
Covering that first 10km out of lunch at an average of 44.2km/h.
Covering the next 10km's at an average of 44.4km/h!
Suffering like a dog during those segments but sucking it up so as not to ruin the moment.
35km's into crazy lunchtime speeds and hearing someone yell out the words I had waited for since lunch, "EASE IT UP PLEASE." I could not have been happier...
Watching the strong men of the bunch Ray, Rusty, Baby G and Tiny form a 4 man rotation off the front and protect the rest of us from the elements.
Asking Ray to go to the front, stay there and slow it down for the last 25km's into afternoon tea and failing miserably as he was next to the hypo active Tiny Dancer.
Listening to Tiny beg to Ray if he could please go from 44km/h to 46, then to 48, then finally in a pleading voice to 50km/h on a slight downhill section with the wind up our crackers.
Watching Ray shake his head in the futility of controlling an out of control dance man in full swing.
Loving it when Baby G and Rusty charged to the front, took control and finally ended Tiny's energetic dance steps. Thanks boys. Love your work.
Just watching my team throughout a day when I struggled the entire way, and fully appreciating their unbelievable caring friendship and sacrifices to help me achieve my goal of riding around Australia. Utmost respect to all, riders and road crew. Love you guys!
That last 30km's into Port Lincoln and Taser taking time off from tasering her fellow riders to talk to me for an hour.
That same 30km's and watching the lads swap turns on front and protecting Mel, Anna, Johnny and I. Man we have a strong team this year. I am in awe!
That wicked descent into Port Lincoln, losing 120 metres of altitude gain in a
Watching the hard lads go for the umpteenth 60km/h sign this trip, going into Port Lincoln, with Baby G the victor. Being a slightly downhill sprint, with a tailwind speeds of over 70km/h were reached during this sprint. Crazy stuff after nearly 2000 kilometres of riding, but the boys need their fun.
And finally the camaraderie of the group, when we finished in the car park at the Grand Tasman Hotel, reaching an all time high after completing such an epic day that kept getting extended.
So that was our 10th day on the road. It is now 7pm the next night and we are 120km's down the road in the seaside town of Arno Bay. Last night I fell asleep writing the blog and have only just finished it now. Hence the reason you are getting this a day late.
Tiny Dancer is doing today's blog so I will hand you over to him.
Here is the donation address http://www.smiddyfundraising.com.au/event/7-in-7
and thank you for sharing our amazing journey.
Love to all.
Sharky.
Friday 21 September 2012
BOTTLEMART SHARKY'S OZ 7in7 DAY 9 REPORT
SORRY FOR THE DELAY IN GETTING THIS BLOG OUT, PURELY DUE TO NO COVERAGE UNTIL NOW. I WILL NOW HAND YOU OVER TO HELL MEL.
Written by Mel Speare
Stats for the day by Raymond “Bruce” Smith
Course:Ceduna to Port Kenny
Distance: 173 kms
Ride Time: 5 hours 53 min 8 sec
Average speed:29.4km/h
Metres climbed:497 metres
Temperature min:8 degrees
Temperature max:29 degrees
Wind direction:Just from the East
Most impressive road stretch: 36.8km early in the day
Average Heartrate:
Average Cadence:77rpm
Road Kill Count by Hell Mel assisted by, well, everyone!
23 x Shingleback blue tongue lizards – (yes they do exist!)
1 x small cute type green lizard that may have been froglike
1 x Parrot
2 x Rabbits
Special mention goes to the live Shingleback blue tongue that Baby G almost sent to a higher place.
Hey everyone, Mel here. Well today is day nine which in my current world is the only way I can track what day of the week it is. Gone is the significance of the words Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday or Friday.
Day nine saw us all crinkle back the zippers of our swags in the dark of the early morning to begin our packup and preparations for today’s leg from Ceduna to Port Kenny. A South Eastern journey along the South Australian coast taking in sights along the Flinders Highway.
This leg consists of 171km of cycling, where winds are predicted to be with us. So we decided last night to continue the pleasure of arriving at our destination reasonably early in the afternoon by making an early start to our day.
6am roll out quickly became 7am – relaxing to enjoy that one last toilet visit before we hit the road – a delay that has become quite pleasurable when the pressure to beat the predicted winds has been lifted.
7am we roll out with the honour of bell ringing being given to Jeffery, or as we all know and love him, Gorilla. Gorilla began his 7-in-7 apprentiship with Captain Kevvy this year and has been doing a sterling job.
Gorilla sent us on our way for todays journey where we roll out of the lovely seaside town of Ceduna.
Now Kevvy and Gorilla have created quite a bond, where, wherever Kevvy goes, Gorilla goes. The Dynamic Duo, the 2 Ronnies, Minnie and Mickey, Tonto and the Lone Ranger. So as we athletic types have the staying power of a neut at the pub, Gorilla kindly looked after our Captain Kevvy where they continued to while the night away in the good company of a quiet ale or two.
Now Tonto and the Lone Ranger are two of the most committed supporters any team could possibly wish for. They’re up early every day making sure we’re out of bed, fed and watered and ready to hit the road at our designated roll out time. They pack up the trailer, pick up anything JL leaves behind, wash our dishes and take care of any check out formalities required. And that’s all before we get to our first break stop where for the 2 Ronnies, it must seem that groundhog day begins again.
Today was no different. As usual breakfast was out and ready for us all, but where were Gorilla and the Captain? A glance left and a glance right and what do we see but the two of them snuggled tightly under their covers grasping the last moments of possible shut eye. Time management maximised once again by the Dynamic Duo!
The support, encouragement and hugs you give all of us, honestly makes our days and I’m not sure I could ever find enough words to express our absolute thanks to both of you.
Preserve, Conserve & Reserve
As Taser and I are grateful for the helpful cycling tips of our more experienced fellow cyclists, we took yesterdays advice from our very own Tiny Dancer with gusto. Backpedal to yesterday, the call was, while we wanted to make the most of the 2nd day of expected tail winds, we should be mindful to “preserve, conserve and reserve” our energies throughout the day and not smash ourselves given we were only half way through our journey. So with the tips of the grupetto bestowed upon us, Taser and I made hay of what was a great day of cycling. Now given that today – day 9 – was of similar conditions as yesterday, Taser & I both made the assumption that preserve, conserve & reserve was the preferred grupetto styling.
We quickly learned that was yesterday’s tactic. Today, Tiny Dancers alter ego, “the Captain” made his presence felt when Tiny Dancer and Baby G took to lead the group smashing out a paceline speed until the ‘ease it up boys’ call comes from the rear.
A cheeky grin comes from the Tiny Dancer with wild eyes. In good spirits and sportsmanship he has proudly regained his pride in the grupetto pushing the team to their limits and declaring “I may have been tazered by the Tazer, but today the Tiny Dancer dances”.
Look up
As many of us early rising cyclist know, when you’re up early in the morning, its freezing cold and you’re climbing that darned hill that never seems to end or your simply spending 5 days battling a headwind, you can sometimes have a momentary lapse and wonder what on earth you are doing out of your warm and cosy bed. Fast forward 5 seconds and you remember to look up. Look up and to the left of you and to the right and you see the amazing land we have bestowed upon us.
From the day our journey began, which was in a minibus driving from Perth to our starting point in Esperance we have been fortunate enough to appreciate the beauty of our amazing country. The vibrance of the brilliant yellow of the canola fields and the ruddy clay of Noresman. The Nullarbor from Norseman to Ceduna (that I for one had half expected to be a hot, boring, straight stretch of road) had us all awestruck as we quickly realised that the road was actually a windy, boring straight stretch of road, but was more so one of the most incredibly fascinating landscapes we may ever get to cycle. The landscape changes from west to east of this amazing limestone basin; the Malle woodlands and grasslands; the dried up salt lakes that sparkled and glistened in the sunlight and the amazement of cycling from one end of the escarpment to the other from Madura to Eucla in one shockingly windy day – simply beautiful!
As we take in todays route from the picturesque Ceduna to Port Kenny where the greens of the wheat fields roll into the crystal clear ocean to the brilliant blues of the skies, we remember to look up and around us, we are reminded of the fabulous world around us and how incredibly lucky we are to being a part of such and inspiring journey.
I know it has been said before and will not likely be the last time you hear it, but to families, friends, supporters and crew – the love and encouragement you send our way, the time you allow us away from our everyday duties to take to the road and join Sharky on this amazing journey – Thankyou! You guys are the real wind up our tails.
While there is so much more that I could add to this blog, I have Captain Kevvy tapping his toes giving me the countdown making sure I get to bed at a reasonable hour. Our last day of big ks tomorrow with 189km from here at Port Kenny to Wangary, so I best sign off.
G’nite all. Sleep well.
Mel
PS Remember the link…
http://www.smiddyfundraising.com.au/event/7-in-7
Thursday 20 September 2012
BOTTLEMART SHARKY'S OZ 7in7 DAY 8 REPORT
Written by Rusty with special assistance from Ray “under the radar” Smith and gratefully edited by Baby Gorilla.
Stats for the day by Ray
Course:Nundroo to Ceduna
Distance: 152km
Ride Time:5 hours 7 min
Average speed:29.6km/h
Metres climbed:489 metres
Temperature min:5.5 degrees
Temperature max:29.6 degrees
Wind direction:North Westerly turning to South Westerly in the afternoon.
Tiny Dancer Stats:
Average heart rate: 106 BPM
Max heart rate: 176 BPM (Sprinting for the wrong sign)
Average cadence: 86 RPM
Road Kill Count by Mel, Rusty, Ray & Baby G.
2 x Skippy’s
7 x Wombats
2 x Snakes
21 x Shingle Back Lizards
1 x Possum
1 x Rabbit
Everything’s made in China
Another shorter day lay ahead so it was decided to head out early today and get to Ceduna with plenty of time to spare. Undercover Ray bounced out of his top bunk like a kid on Christmas morning, keen for his morning shower that in his words “make him feel soooo good”. Ray’s enthusiasm for just about everything is normally very infectious, although at 5am it can sometimes feel a little out of place. This morning he was a little louder than normal and woke the lovely Chinese couple staying in the room next door. The couple were very intrigued with the people in lycra hovering around outside their hotel room before dawn. Fortunately the gentleman was quite excitable, a bit like a Chinese version of Ray, and seemed to know a little about where all the good bikes are made these days. He pointed out that although Ray’s bike is an expensive Italian Colnago, it is actually made in China before being sent to Italy to have a sticker put on it. After a few photos with our new friends, including one of him on my 10ft tall bike affectionately known as the “GIANT” Giant, we assembled for a 6:30am departure and the honour of ringing the cow bell was given to Baby Gorilla for his efforts whilst in charge of the road kill count for the first 5 days of our journey. A task that just about sent him loopy due to the sheer volume of dead Skippy’s on the road.
I would also like to acknowledge the amazing help from the staff at the Nundroo road house who made our stay so memorable. They were a special mix of unique individuals that seemed very comfortable with their own company. Of particular help was the young fellow whose moustache growing ability made me feel a little less of a man, your knowledge of the EFTpos machine was amazing.
Rolling out at dawn saw us witness an amazing red desert sunrise that at one point produced a smiley face as it rose behind a cloud, both stunning and entertaining. When you spend so much time riding a bike you start to appreciate the subtle differences in road surfaces. The type and condition of a road has a direct effect on the parts of your body you don’t talk about with friends, unless of course you spend far too much time together with very little to talk about. Today we experienced an 8km section of road with a “hot mix” shoulder. At the time JL was on the front of the Grupetto translating War & Peace into Japanese, so for the other riders the turns on the front weren’t coming quick enough. Hot mix to a rider with a sore backside is the ultimate in luxury.
WhWere is Kat “Panda” Balls when you need her?
Our first encounter with civilisation today was a town called Penong. We were all hoping it would be South Australia’s “Curry Capital”, but to JL’s delight it was actually a sister city to Amsterdam, having a uncanny amount of windmills for its size. Our Smiddy sister Kat “Panda” Balls would have been in her element. Baby Gorilla suggested Penong could be the place JL retires to; he could start a White Horse ranch and entertain passing tourists by explaining the complexities of a game that accumulates points by merely identifying objects to those around you. It would be similar to our encounter with Gloria and Peter who we met yesterday at Nundroo roadhouse, (Peter has had a lung removed due to cancer), a couple that showed interest in us before JL tried to convince them they should start their own windmill spotting game. Gloria seemed keen, although Peter wasn’t so trusting and questioned if JL was trying to set him up for failure at the hands of his wife. As Peter walk off toward his car he pointed off into to the distance a yelled “windmill”, much to the excitement of JL and the disappointment of Gloria who thought she was the only one clued up to this game.
Our focus quickly returned to arriving as early as possible to Ceduna so we could have a few hours to kick back and get a few formalities sorted. Once through Penong it was all business with nothing too much to report except for another roadside message from Sharky’s friends Michael and Cathy Jennings. This was the sixth and final message for Sharky and it’s been great to see how much he has enjoyed and appreciated the effort his friends have gone to.
We are the crazy ones
Having a few hours of daylight in Ceduna to set up our swags and get organised has been extra special today due to the number of people that have approached us and enquired about our Journey. Ray and I seemed to be doing alright with the older ladies, picking up the odd donation, whilst Ray on his own still seems to be attracting attention in the shower blocks from older men. Is it right that after standing around half naked that another man gives you money? I guess if it’s for a great cause then one shouldn’t question how the donation is sourced. A win/win situation hey?
It has been humbling to talk to those who have passed us in their travels and shown a genuine interest in what we are doing. The sad but increasingly common subject of cancer has become a familiar story amongst most of the people we have met, with stories of lost love ones and personal, often ongoing battles with cancer dominating the conversations. One gentleman we met this afternoon, and gave us a donation, explained how he has had 4 melanomas removed but due to early detection he has avoided any further problems.
People love seeing us on the road and enjoy it when they have the opportunity to talk with us. We have become known as the “mad” or “crazy people” riding our bikes a seeming impossible distance every day.
We could not do it without you
As mentioned a few times already, but probably not enough, when someone commits to taking part in an event like Smiling for Smiddy it has a ripple effect on the lives of those around them. Husbands, wives, children and work colleagues are all impacted when we put our hand up to partake. Back in the “real world” someone is picking up our kids from school, chasing our work responsibilities, walking the dog and mowing our lawns. We think of you every day and thank you for making it possible to experience this once in a lifetime opportunity. The Smiddy family extends far beyond those who are fortunate enough to be doing what they love, riding bikes.
She’s got legs and she knows how to use them
Everyone gets something different from their Smiddy experience, although one of the common themes is the amount of inspiration people draw from taking part. This year’s 7 in 7 is no different. Anna & Mel’s work on the bike has been nothing short of amazing. Today I sat behind them at one stage whilst they were averaging close to 40kms per hour on the front of the Grupetto chatting away comfortably.
Mel completed the Smiddy challenge ride of 1600kms just 5 days before our departure from Esperance, so has now racked up over 3010kms. She also contributed more than her fair share of time to assist with organising this year’s 7 in 7. Whilst on the ride Mel is busy every night massaging tired bodies and making sure Sharky remembers to brush his teeth and upload his journals.
Anna, although constantly apologising for her lack of experience on the bike has risen to every challenge and more than held her own. She has then backed up by doubling as our chef and putting in 2 or 3 hour shifts some nights to produce great meals.
Mel and Anna your efforts on the bike are admired by your fellow riders and all the additional things you do for us are really appreciated. You are both truly inspirational.
As we’ve moved further away from the sparse open plains of the Nullarbor our friends at Telstra have provided some of us with an opportunity to reconnect with family and friends. Tiny Dancer has finally been able to update his status on Face Book from “I’m one scary guy” to “Don’t smile at me or I’ll yell at you”.
I get by with a little help from my friends
Last year during the challenge ride I was fortunate enough to meet some awesome people. Justin Carney, Ray Smith, John Leyshon, Craig Mitchel, Katrina Cousins and the Shark man himself have stayed in touch and become great friends. Kate Warren was also someone who I loved spending time with and was a huge favourite with my two daughters April and Lucy. I made a conscious effort to support Kate through her 7-in-7 journey last year as it must have been an incredibly hard time for her. Kate sent me a book titled “The Book of Hard Words”, and as a tribute to her I have chosen a sample to share:
LALOPHOBIA – (lal-oh-FOH-bee-uh) from the Greek lalien (to speak) plus phobia (fear)
Definition: a morbid fear of speaking that is no just confined to public speaking, but exists in a wide variety of circumstances.
Upgrade your vocabulary: Don’t say “Tiny Dancer is reluctant to communicate with others”, say “Tiny Dancer suffers from lalophobia”.
Your love is lifting us higher
We love the messages being sent so please keep them coming. Last night Sharky read the group an email from one of this year’s Smiddy Challenge riders, Stephen Potts.
Pottsy I have taken the liberty of quoting your email below, I hope you don’t mind. We all found it very moving, especially those of us with young children.
Sharky and the Team
Keep up the great work. You are making a difference… here’s proof!
I have 3 daughters. Matilda is almost 5, Isabella 3, Lucy 1. I explained to them that Sharky is still riding his bike, and that he didn’t stop at Townsville. They were most impressed! Matilda then turned to me and said ‘is Sharky still raising money for Adam Smiddy so other people won’t die of melanoma?’. Yes, I said, with a lump in my throat. They next morning, Matilda – who normally carries on about what clothes she wants to wear to kindy – got dressed with minimal fuss. I said ‘good girl, you’re all dressed for kindy’. She tells me ‘I’m wearing a T shirt today Daddy (instead of a sleeveless dress) so I won’t get melanoma’. It stopped me in my tracks. She’s not even 5 and understands what cancer and melanoma is, and what she can do to help prevent it. My heart sank when I thought to myself ‘what if one of my girls got cancer’… I even find that hard to write, let alone think or say.
Matilda and Isabella know about Smiling for Smiddy and Sharky’s Oz 7 in 7 because they ask to hear the story about Adam every morning that I put my Smiddy jersey on, with the picture of Adam on the sleeve. So THANK YOU for helping the next generation of kids and their parents… thank you in advance, from me – a parent, who never wants to be in the position of having to say goodbye too soon.
Chins to the wind! Ride on!
Pottsy
It’s fast approaching bed time and quality sleep hard to come by so it’s over and out from me. Thanks again to the awesome Shark man from allowing me to share this amazing journey with you. You have really made it feel like “Our Journey” not just Sharky’s 7-in-7, another example of how special you are.
Cheers,
Rusty (aka the looker… thanks Anna)
P.S. A massive thanks to Mark and Leanne Miller who have pledge $1.00 for every kilometre ridden on today’s stage, $152.00, to the worst fundraiser. This is great news for me as I’m currently in 8th position when it comes to getting others to part with money. Thank you so much for your generosity.
Sharky has been sending out the wrong link to the 7-in-7 fundraising page, please use the one below:
http://www.smiddyfundraising.com.au/event/7-in-7
Stats for the day by Ray
Course:Nundroo to Ceduna
Distance: 152km
Ride Time:5 hours 7 min
Average speed:29.6km/h
Metres climbed:489 metres
Temperature min:5.5 degrees
Temperature max:29.6 degrees
Wind direction:North Westerly turning to South Westerly in the afternoon.
Tiny Dancer Stats:
Average heart rate: 106 BPM
Max heart rate: 176 BPM (Sprinting for the wrong sign)
Average cadence: 86 RPM
Road Kill Count by Mel, Rusty, Ray & Baby G.
2 x Skippy’s
7 x Wombats
2 x Snakes
21 x Shingle Back Lizards
1 x Possum
1 x Rabbit
Everything’s made in China
Another shorter day lay ahead so it was decided to head out early today and get to Ceduna with plenty of time to spare. Undercover Ray bounced out of his top bunk like a kid on Christmas morning, keen for his morning shower that in his words “make him feel soooo good”. Ray’s enthusiasm for just about everything is normally very infectious, although at 5am it can sometimes feel a little out of place. This morning he was a little louder than normal and woke the lovely Chinese couple staying in the room next door. The couple were very intrigued with the people in lycra hovering around outside their hotel room before dawn. Fortunately the gentleman was quite excitable, a bit like a Chinese version of Ray, and seemed to know a little about where all the good bikes are made these days. He pointed out that although Ray’s bike is an expensive Italian Colnago, it is actually made in China before being sent to Italy to have a sticker put on it. After a few photos with our new friends, including one of him on my 10ft tall bike affectionately known as the “GIANT” Giant, we assembled for a 6:30am departure and the honour of ringing the cow bell was given to Baby Gorilla for his efforts whilst in charge of the road kill count for the first 5 days of our journey. A task that just about sent him loopy due to the sheer volume of dead Skippy’s on the road.
I would also like to acknowledge the amazing help from the staff at the Nundroo road house who made our stay so memorable. They were a special mix of unique individuals that seemed very comfortable with their own company. Of particular help was the young fellow whose moustache growing ability made me feel a little less of a man, your knowledge of the EFTpos machine was amazing.
Rolling out at dawn saw us witness an amazing red desert sunrise that at one point produced a smiley face as it rose behind a cloud, both stunning and entertaining. When you spend so much time riding a bike you start to appreciate the subtle differences in road surfaces. The type and condition of a road has a direct effect on the parts of your body you don’t talk about with friends, unless of course you spend far too much time together with very little to talk about. Today we experienced an 8km section of road with a “hot mix” shoulder. At the time JL was on the front of the Grupetto translating War & Peace into Japanese, so for the other riders the turns on the front weren’t coming quick enough. Hot mix to a rider with a sore backside is the ultimate in luxury.
WhWere is Kat “Panda” Balls when you need her?
Our first encounter with civilisation today was a town called Penong. We were all hoping it would be South Australia’s “Curry Capital”, but to JL’s delight it was actually a sister city to Amsterdam, having a uncanny amount of windmills for its size. Our Smiddy sister Kat “Panda” Balls would have been in her element. Baby Gorilla suggested Penong could be the place JL retires to; he could start a White Horse ranch and entertain passing tourists by explaining the complexities of a game that accumulates points by merely identifying objects to those around you. It would be similar to our encounter with Gloria and Peter who we met yesterday at Nundroo roadhouse, (Peter has had a lung removed due to cancer), a couple that showed interest in us before JL tried to convince them they should start their own windmill spotting game. Gloria seemed keen, although Peter wasn’t so trusting and questioned if JL was trying to set him up for failure at the hands of his wife. As Peter walk off toward his car he pointed off into to the distance a yelled “windmill”, much to the excitement of JL and the disappointment of Gloria who thought she was the only one clued up to this game.
Our focus quickly returned to arriving as early as possible to Ceduna so we could have a few hours to kick back and get a few formalities sorted. Once through Penong it was all business with nothing too much to report except for another roadside message from Sharky’s friends Michael and Cathy Jennings. This was the sixth and final message for Sharky and it’s been great to see how much he has enjoyed and appreciated the effort his friends have gone to.
We are the crazy ones
Having a few hours of daylight in Ceduna to set up our swags and get organised has been extra special today due to the number of people that have approached us and enquired about our Journey. Ray and I seemed to be doing alright with the older ladies, picking up the odd donation, whilst Ray on his own still seems to be attracting attention in the shower blocks from older men. Is it right that after standing around half naked that another man gives you money? I guess if it’s for a great cause then one shouldn’t question how the donation is sourced. A win/win situation hey?
It has been humbling to talk to those who have passed us in their travels and shown a genuine interest in what we are doing. The sad but increasingly common subject of cancer has become a familiar story amongst most of the people we have met, with stories of lost love ones and personal, often ongoing battles with cancer dominating the conversations. One gentleman we met this afternoon, and gave us a donation, explained how he has had 4 melanomas removed but due to early detection he has avoided any further problems.
People love seeing us on the road and enjoy it when they have the opportunity to talk with us. We have become known as the “mad” or “crazy people” riding our bikes a seeming impossible distance every day.
We could not do it without you
As mentioned a few times already, but probably not enough, when someone commits to taking part in an event like Smiling for Smiddy it has a ripple effect on the lives of those around them. Husbands, wives, children and work colleagues are all impacted when we put our hand up to partake. Back in the “real world” someone is picking up our kids from school, chasing our work responsibilities, walking the dog and mowing our lawns. We think of you every day and thank you for making it possible to experience this once in a lifetime opportunity. The Smiddy family extends far beyond those who are fortunate enough to be doing what they love, riding bikes.
She’s got legs and she knows how to use them
Everyone gets something different from their Smiddy experience, although one of the common themes is the amount of inspiration people draw from taking part. This year’s 7 in 7 is no different. Anna & Mel’s work on the bike has been nothing short of amazing. Today I sat behind them at one stage whilst they were averaging close to 40kms per hour on the front of the Grupetto chatting away comfortably.
Mel completed the Smiddy challenge ride of 1600kms just 5 days before our departure from Esperance, so has now racked up over 3010kms. She also contributed more than her fair share of time to assist with organising this year’s 7 in 7. Whilst on the ride Mel is busy every night massaging tired bodies and making sure Sharky remembers to brush his teeth and upload his journals.
Anna, although constantly apologising for her lack of experience on the bike has risen to every challenge and more than held her own. She has then backed up by doubling as our chef and putting in 2 or 3 hour shifts some nights to produce great meals.
Mel and Anna your efforts on the bike are admired by your fellow riders and all the additional things you do for us are really appreciated. You are both truly inspirational.
As we’ve moved further away from the sparse open plains of the Nullarbor our friends at Telstra have provided some of us with an opportunity to reconnect with family and friends. Tiny Dancer has finally been able to update his status on Face Book from “I’m one scary guy” to “Don’t smile at me or I’ll yell at you”.
I get by with a little help from my friends
Last year during the challenge ride I was fortunate enough to meet some awesome people. Justin Carney, Ray Smith, John Leyshon, Craig Mitchel, Katrina Cousins and the Shark man himself have stayed in touch and become great friends. Kate Warren was also someone who I loved spending time with and was a huge favourite with my two daughters April and Lucy. I made a conscious effort to support Kate through her 7-in-7 journey last year as it must have been an incredibly hard time for her. Kate sent me a book titled “The Book of Hard Words”, and as a tribute to her I have chosen a sample to share:
LALOPHOBIA – (lal-oh-FOH-bee-uh) from the Greek lalien (to speak) plus phobia (fear)
Definition: a morbid fear of speaking that is no just confined to public speaking, but exists in a wide variety of circumstances.
Upgrade your vocabulary: Don’t say “Tiny Dancer is reluctant to communicate with others”, say “Tiny Dancer suffers from lalophobia”.
Your love is lifting us higher
We love the messages being sent so please keep them coming. Last night Sharky read the group an email from one of this year’s Smiddy Challenge riders, Stephen Potts.
Pottsy I have taken the liberty of quoting your email below, I hope you don’t mind. We all found it very moving, especially those of us with young children.
Sharky and the Team
Keep up the great work. You are making a difference… here’s proof!
I have 3 daughters. Matilda is almost 5, Isabella 3, Lucy 1. I explained to them that Sharky is still riding his bike, and that he didn’t stop at Townsville. They were most impressed! Matilda then turned to me and said ‘is Sharky still raising money for Adam Smiddy so other people won’t die of melanoma?’. Yes, I said, with a lump in my throat. They next morning, Matilda – who normally carries on about what clothes she wants to wear to kindy – got dressed with minimal fuss. I said ‘good girl, you’re all dressed for kindy’. She tells me ‘I’m wearing a T shirt today Daddy (instead of a sleeveless dress) so I won’t get melanoma’. It stopped me in my tracks. She’s not even 5 and understands what cancer and melanoma is, and what she can do to help prevent it. My heart sank when I thought to myself ‘what if one of my girls got cancer’… I even find that hard to write, let alone think or say.
Matilda and Isabella know about Smiling for Smiddy and Sharky’s Oz 7 in 7 because they ask to hear the story about Adam every morning that I put my Smiddy jersey on, with the picture of Adam on the sleeve. So THANK YOU for helping the next generation of kids and their parents… thank you in advance, from me – a parent, who never wants to be in the position of having to say goodbye too soon.
Chins to the wind! Ride on!
Pottsy
It’s fast approaching bed time and quality sleep hard to come by so it’s over and out from me. Thanks again to the awesome Shark man from allowing me to share this amazing journey with you. You have really made it feel like “Our Journey” not just Sharky’s 7-in-7, another example of how special you are.
Cheers,
Rusty (aka the looker… thanks Anna)
P.S. A massive thanks to Mark and Leanne Miller who have pledge $1.00 for every kilometre ridden on today’s stage, $152.00, to the worst fundraiser. This is great news for me as I’m currently in 8th position when it comes to getting others to part with money. Thank you so much for your generosity.
Sharky has been sending out the wrong link to the 7-in-7 fundraising page, please use the one below:
http://www.smiddyfundraising.com.au/event/7-in-7
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