Training Log Archive: cfosp1In the 29 days ending Feb 29, 2016:
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Monday Feb 29, 2016 #
Note
XC skiing on snow, over the past 5 years. Also reflects my development as a skate skier and starting to do some races.
Last year was exceptional. A bad year in terms of snow but working not too far from Hyland Park Reserve led me to take full advantage, before and after work. I now work downtown and commute by LRT or bike, not as easy to get over there. I did quite a bit more roller skiing in 2015 when compared to previous years.
| Year | Event | Distance | Duration | Activities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015-16 | XC Skiing | 1039.5 km | 77:33:53 | 75 |
| 2014-15 | XC Skiing | 1251.4 km | 92:49:49 | 94 |
| 2013-14 | XC Skiing | 1054.9 km | 79:41:29 | 85 |
| 2012-13 | XC Skiing | 792.9 km | 61:23:23 | 68 |
| 2011-12 | XC Skiing | 429.9 km | 36:44:37 | 30 |
Last year was exceptional. A bad year in terms of snow but working not too far from Hyland Park Reserve led me to take full advantage, before and after work. I now work downtown and commute by LRT or bike, not as easy to get over there. I did quite a bit more roller skiing in 2015 when compared to previous years.
6 AM
Biking Commuting 35:17 12.28 km (2:52 / km) +159m 2:42 / km
ahr:128 max:149 shoes: All-City Space Horse
Home to TPC
6:12 AM; Hamline Midway/Como Park
2.3 °C; Cloudy
I could live with bicycle commuting on this date, i.e. every quadrennial but I should really be able to ski instead, before or after work. No complaints having the conditions just right for a brisk early morning bike ride to work this morning, though. The strong wind had dried out the remaining puddles and the temps had not dipped below freezing yet. I rode through Hamline-Midway and S St. Anthony to find some shelter from the wind. Still, it was slow going, and not many other cyclists out.
6:12 AM; Hamline Midway/Como Park
2.3 °C; Cloudy
I could live with bicycle commuting on this date, i.e. every quadrennial but I should really be able to ski instead, before or after work. No complaints having the conditions just right for a brisk early morning bike ride to work this morning, though. The strong wind had dried out the remaining puddles and the temps had not dipped below freezing yet. I rode through Hamline-Midway and S St. Anthony to find some shelter from the wind. Still, it was slow going, and not many other cyclists out.
3 PM
Hiking 32:13 [1] 3.39 km (9:30 / km) +25m 9:10 / km
ahr:96 max:110 shoes: Asolo FSN 95
Energy Park Short Hike
4:25 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
-4.0 °C; Cloudy
Got home, found that dogs had been fed and it looked like Lynn might be out for a walk with Mellie. Just as I was heading out the door with Roux, I heard Mellie yip. She was in her crate. Glad I noticed. Cold outside, but no mud. Nice walk!
4:25 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
-4.0 °C; Cloudy
Got home, found that dogs had been fed and it looked like Lynn might be out for a walk with Mellie. Just as I was heading out the door with Roux, I heard Mellie yip. She was in her crate. Glad I noticed. Cold outside, but no mud. Nice walk!
Biking Commuting 33:10 11.66 km (2:51 / km) +91m 2:44 / km
ahr:132 max:149 shoes: All-City Space Horse
TPC to Home
3:42 PM; Hamline Midway/Como Park
-4.1 °C; Cloudy
As predicted quite a bit colder than on the way to work this morning. Very bearable, though. Like this morning, I cut through the neighborhood to avoid the wind.
3:42 PM; Hamline Midway/Como Park
-4.1 °C; Cloudy
As predicted quite a bit colder than on the way to work this morning. Very bearable, though. Like this morning, I cut through the neighborhood to avoid the wind.
Sunday Feb 28, 2016 #
6 AM
Biking Commuting 29:45 9.94 km (3:00 / km) +78m 2:53 / km
shoes: All-City Space Horse
Midway YMCA-Home-Dunn Bros
7:24 AM; Hamline Midway/Como Park
1.6 °C; Cloudy
After done with swimming, decided to do a coffee run to Dun Bros. Stopped at home to pick up wallet and reusable bag. returned via Fry and the pedestrian bridge West of Snelling. The north wind felt cold after yesterday's balmy weather. This is really more like what you'd expect from late February and still not quite.
7:24 AM; Hamline Midway/Como Park
1.6 °C; Cloudy
After done with swimming, decided to do a coffee run to Dun Bros. Stopped at home to pick up wallet and reusable bag. returned via Fry and the pedestrian bridge West of Snelling. The north wind felt cold after yesterday's balmy weather. This is really more like what you'd expect from late February and still not quite.
Swimming: Laps 46:11 1.85 km (24:58 / km)
Midway YMCA Lap Swim Breast
6:17 AM; Midway YMCA
I was going for 80 lengths breaststroke, to continue my "water therapy." Figured out that the breaststroke clamshell motion works both my adductor and abductor muscles, which I need to overcome remaining groin pain. Started with 40 minutes, which I could track on wall clock, which would bring me close to my goal. Indeed, only an additional 8 lengths remained.
6:17 AM; Midway YMCA
I was going for 80 lengths breaststroke, to continue my "water therapy." Figured out that the breaststroke clamshell motion works both my adductor and abductor muscles, which I need to overcome remaining groin pain. Started with 40 minutes, which I could track on wall clock, which would bring me close to my goal. Indeed, only an additional 8 lengths remained.
Biking Commuting 6:49 [1] 2.25 km (3:02 / km) +9m 2:58 / km
shoes: All-City Space Horse
Home to Midwy YMCA
6:00 AM; Hamline Midway/Como Park
3.7 °C; Cloudy
Ride to Y does not take a lot of time or effort.
6:00 AM; Hamline Midway/Como Park
3.7 °C; Cloudy
Ride to Y does not take a lot of time or effort.
1 PM
Hiking 1:09:30 [1] 6.85 km (10:09 / km) +70m 9:39 / km
shoes: Asolo FSN 95
Energy Park-Como Ave Hike
1:27 PM; Hamline Midway/Como Park
2.1 °C; Cloudy
Cold (compared to yesterday) and blustery, after the light snow stopped. We did not mind. Roux had a grand old time chasing rabbits along the tracks. He'd scare one up, chase it for a couple minutes, come back to me and find another one to do the same all over again. I wish I had his speed and energy.
1:27 PM; Hamline Midway/Como Park
2.1 °C; Cloudy
Cold (compared to yesterday) and blustery, after the light snow stopped. We did not mind. Roux had a grand old time chasing rabbits along the tracks. He'd scare one up, chase it for a couple minutes, come back to me and find another one to do the same all over again. I wish I had his speed and energy.
Saturday Feb 27, 2016 #
7 AM
XC Skiing Skate 1:37:20 25.94 km (3:45 / km) +577m 3:23 / km
ahr:149 max:197 shoes: Atomic Worldcup Skate '11
Hyland Skate Skiing
7:32 AM; Hyland Park Reserve
3.3 °C; Clear
Karl and I got to Hyland for a 7:30 start. Great conditions for the first 3-4 laps, then the uphills started to be sugary. More people started to arrive and after putting our 6 laps (minus Boulder Ridge) in, we called it a day. Pretty awesome to have this resource. Only saw Andy from our group, I think the majority are at Pepsi Challenge or in Finland, for the World Loppet event. If the trail survives today's spring tems, I see a chance for another couple of visits to Hyland next week.
For me, a strict non-winter rider, this is the first winter for which skiing and bicycle commuting overlapped, both at the beginning and at the end of the season.
7:32 AM; Hyland Park Reserve
3.3 °C; Clear
Karl and I got to Hyland for a 7:30 start. Great conditions for the first 3-4 laps, then the uphills started to be sugary. More people started to arrive and after putting our 6 laps (minus Boulder Ridge) in, we called it a day. Pretty awesome to have this resource. Only saw Andy from our group, I think the majority are at Pepsi Challenge or in Finland, for the World Loppet event. If the trail survives today's spring tems, I see a chance for another couple of visits to Hyland next week.
For me, a strict non-winter rider, this is the first winter for which skiing and bicycle commuting overlapped, both at the beginning and at the end of the season.
12 PM
Hiking 1:03:04 [1] 4.6 km (13:43 / km) +51m 12:59 / km
shoes: Asolo FSN 95
Energy Park Hike
12:56 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
14.3 °C; Clear
Hike with Lynn and the dogs, spring-like weather, super warm but not good for the remaining snow.
12:56 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
14.3 °C; Clear
Hike with Lynn and the dogs, spring-like weather, super warm but not good for the remaining snow.
Friday Feb 26, 2016 #
6 AM
Biking Commuting 4:17 [1] 1.54 km (2:47 / km) +1m 2:46 / km
shoes: All-City Space Horse
Home to Green Line
6:05 AM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
-3.8 °C; Partly cloudy
First time on the bike since mid december of last year. Feels good. Almost missed the train, just got there in time to hop on. Parked bike in TCC basement bike room. Very easy. I can't quite believe that this is it for the winter. Who knows, maybe there's going to be a foot in mid-March.
6:05 AM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
-3.8 °C; Partly cloudy
First time on the bike since mid december of last year. Feels good. Almost missed the train, just got there in time to hop on. Parked bike in TCC basement bike room. Very easy. I can't quite believe that this is it for the winter. Who knows, maybe there's going to be a foot in mid-March.
3 PM
Hiking 34:11 [1] 3.54 km (9:39 / km) +30m 9:16 / km
ahr:94 max:107 shoes: Asolo FSN 95
Energy Park Short Hike
3:54 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
5.9 °C; Clear
Beatiful afternoon, also for walk with dogs. Track team is training at Hamline field, athletes in shorts, they looked cold.
3:54 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
5.9 °C; Clear
Beatiful afternoon, also for walk with dogs. Track team is training at Hamline field, athletes in shorts, they looked cold.
Biking Commuting 27:47 11.18 km (2:29 / km) +77m 2:24 / km
ahr:131 max:152 shoes: All-City Space Horse
TCC to Home
3:10 PM; Minneapolis-St. Paul
6.2 °C; Clear
First commute ride and it was a lovely one. A little wind from the hindquarters, sunshine and mostly dry pavement. Not too much traffic, either. Kept the pace easy, switching activities and easing back into cycling. Sweet!
3:10 PM; Minneapolis-St. Paul
6.2 °C; Clear
First commute ride and it was a lovely one. A little wind from the hindquarters, sunshine and mostly dry pavement. Not too much traffic, either. Kept the pace easy, switching activities and easing back into cycling. Sweet!
Thursday Feb 25, 2016 #
6 AM
Swimming: Laps 36:13 1.44 km (25:09 / km)
Lap Swim DT Minneapolis YMCA
6:22 AM; Downtown Minneapolis YMCA
First swim since last summer. Probably more some sort of water therapy for my sore body at the end of xc ski season. There is a sore shoulder, stemming back from a roller ski spill almost two years ago, and a sore upper hamstring from another roller ski spill a year and a half ago. Sore knees to boot. Time for some healing, now. That meant at best a moderate pace for today's swim, and breast stroke only. It felt good to be in the water, though.
6:22 AM; Downtown Minneapolis YMCA
First swim since last summer. Probably more some sort of water therapy for my sore body at the end of xc ski season. There is a sore shoulder, stemming back from a roller ski spill almost two years ago, and a sore upper hamstring from another roller ski spill a year and a half ago. Sore knees to boot. Time for some healing, now. That meant at best a moderate pace for today's swim, and breast stroke only. It felt good to be in the water, though.
4 PM
Hiking 35:24 [1] 3.58 km (9:53 / km) +32m 9:28 / km
shoes: Nike Air Pegasus+ 30
Energy Park Short Hike
4:16 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
-0.5 °C; Cloudy
Cold wind from NW, but above freezing and snow is almost gone. Eager dogs.
4:16 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
-0.5 °C; Cloudy
Cold wind from NW, but above freezing and snow is almost gone. Eager dogs.
Wednesday Feb 24, 2016 #
4 PM
Hiking 45:27 [1] 4.42 km (10:17 / km) +38m 9:52 / km
shoes: Asolo FSN 95
Energy Park Hike
4:26 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
2.3 °C; Cloudy
First time in a while to do the Snelling to Lexington stretch. The dirt next to the tracks was very soft, on top of frozen ground. Roux regaled some smokers outside of the Kemps building by barking at the promotional VW with almost full-sized cow. Always cracks me up, too. Rescued a nice storage crate from a dumpster, too.
4:26 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
2.3 °C; Cloudy
First time in a while to do the Snelling to Lexington stretch. The dirt next to the tracks was very soft, on top of frozen ground. Roux regaled some smokers outside of the Kemps building by barking at the promotional VW with almost full-sized cow. Always cracks me up, too. Rescued a nice storage crate from a dumpster, too.
Tuesday Feb 23, 2016 #
4 PM
Hiking 33:11 [1] 3.14 km (10:34 / km) +25m 10:10 / km
shoes: Asolo FSN 95
Energy Park Short Hike
4:16 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
3.7 °C; Cloudy
Quick walk with the dogs. Ran into Bree and Frankie on way back, Frankie was a little taken aback by Roux's exuberance.
4:16 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
3.7 °C; Cloudy
Quick walk with the dogs. Ran into Bree and Frankie on way back, Frankie was a little taken aback by Roux's exuberance.
6 PM
XC Skiing Skate 1:27:43 19.9 km (4:24 / km) +382m 4:01 / km
ahr:146 max:166 shoes: Atomic Worldcup Skate '11
Skate Skiing Hyland
6:43 PM; Hyland Park Reserve
2.2 °C; Cloudy
Nice ski with Karl. Sugary mashed potatoes in the uphills but all in all not bad at all. Decent glide, too. A variety of paces, also practicing my V2 in this easy-control snow. Now, if I just could emulate this on very firm snow, I'd be golden.
6:43 PM; Hyland Park Reserve
2.2 °C; Cloudy
Nice ski with Karl. Sugary mashed potatoes in the uphills but all in all not bad at all. Decent glide, too. A variety of paces, also practicing my V2 in this easy-control snow. Now, if I just could emulate this on very firm snow, I'd be golden.
Monday Feb 22, 2016 #
5 PM
Hiking 36:22 [1] 3.57 km (10:11 / km) +23m 9:52 / km
shoes: Asolo FSN 95
Energy Park Drive Hike
5:00 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
1.0 °C; Partly cloudy
On this Monday after the Birkie weekend, snow is doing a disappearing act. In exposed, south-facing slopes (like in the green space within the Snelling to Energy Park Drive ramps) the ground is soft. No more trace of frost, here. I am quite certain that winter still has something in store for us but I am thinking we'll have a fairly early spring.
5:00 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
1.0 °C; Partly cloudy
On this Monday after the Birkie weekend, snow is doing a disappearing act. In exposed, south-facing slopes (like in the green space within the Snelling to Energy Park Drive ramps) the ground is soft. No more trace of frost, here. I am quite certain that winter still has something in store for us but I am thinking we'll have a fairly early spring.
Sunday Feb 21, 2016 #
10 AM
XC Skiing Skate 1:16:13 19.29 km (3:57 / km) +476m 3:31 / km
ahr:141 max:166 shoes: Fischer RCS CarbonLite Skate
OO to Birkie Ridge Trail
10:28 AM; Birkie Trail
-4.1 °C; Snow
First time the conditions were right for an after-Birkie ski. Enjoyed a freshly groomed trail and running into Chris, Heather, Jeremy, and a Brian Gregg look-alike. Turned out to be his identical twin brother and his mom. Also chatted with a young couple skiers in the parking lot, she was wearing Sisu Skiers race tights and appeared to be an elite skier. Sharmila Ahmed? No, Marit Sonnesyn.
Good thing to do before sitting for a couple of hours in the car ...
10:28 AM; Birkie Trail
-4.1 °C; Snow
First time the conditions were right for an after-Birkie ski. Enjoyed a freshly groomed trail and running into Chris, Heather, Jeremy, and a Brian Gregg look-alike. Turned out to be his identical twin brother and his mom. Also chatted with a young couple skiers in the parking lot, she was wearing Sisu Skiers race tights and appeared to be an elite skier. Sharmila Ahmed? No, Marit Sonnesyn.
Good thing to do before sitting for a couple of hours in the car ...
Saturday Feb 20, 2016 #
8 AM
XC Skiing Skate race 3:18:54 51.11 km (3:53 / km) +1116m 3:31 / km
ahr:158 max:172 shoes: Fischer RCS CarbonLite Skate
8:50 AM. Birkie Trail
American Birkebeiner
3.8 °C ;Chance of rain
My Birkebeiner #5 was spring skiing. Was very worried about my wax. It was just fine, even good. More congestion than I recall during my previous wave 2 Birkies. But after the Korte split it was clear sailing. Latched on to 2664, obviously a much better skier. I passed him occasionally but mostly followed. Was wondering what it would like on the lake, where this strong V2 skater would come in his own. Never found out, because I unexpectedly dropped him in the very last downhill. V2 would not have been good on the lake, anyway. Had a nice chat with him after race.
American Birkebeiner
3.8 °C ;Chance of rain
My Birkebeiner #5 was spring skiing. Was very worried about my wax. It was just fine, even good. More congestion than I recall during my previous wave 2 Birkies. But after the Korte split it was clear sailing. Latched on to 2664, obviously a much better skier. I passed him occasionally but mostly followed. Was wondering what it would like on the lake, where this strong V2 skater would come in his own. Never found out, because I unexpectedly dropped him in the very last downhill. V2 would not have been good on the lake, anyway. Had a nice chat with him after race.
Friday Feb 19, 2016 #
8 AM
Hiking 32:59 [1] 3.56 km (9:16 / km) +23m 8:59 / km
shoes: Asolo FSN 95
Energy Park Short Hike
8:52 AM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
3.3 °C; Light rain
Last Birkie-week taper hike. In the rain. Steady rain, and increasing in intensity. Dogs unphased, especially Roux, who seemed to take the puddles with relish.
8:52 AM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
3.3 °C; Light rain
Last Birkie-week taper hike. In the rain. Steady rain, and increasing in intensity. Dogs unphased, especially Roux, who seemed to take the puddles with relish.
Thursday Feb 18, 2016 #
4 PM
Hiking 34:23 [1] 3.57 km (9:38 / km) +40m 9:07 / km
shoes: Asolo FSN 95
Energy Park Short Hike
4:18 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
3.8 °C; Cloudy
Windy and warm. Does not bode well for the Birkie.
4:18 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
3.8 °C; Cloudy
Windy and warm. Does not bode well for the Birkie.
Wednesday Feb 17, 2016 #
4 PM
Hiking 34:14 [1] 3.62 km (9:27 / km) +27m 9:07 / km
shoes: Nike Air Pegasus+ 30
Energy Park Short Hike
4:26 PM; Hamline Midway/Como Park
-1.3 °C; Cloudy
Some jogging sprinkled in with the running. Picked up a stack of 8 discarded tomato cages from a dumpster. Looked almost new. The things people toss ...
4:26 PM; Hamline Midway/Como Park
-1.3 °C; Cloudy
Some jogging sprinkled in with the running. Picked up a stack of 8 discarded tomato cages from a dumpster. Looked almost new. The things people toss ...
Tuesday Feb 16, 2016 #
4 PM
Hiking 34:49 [1] 3.55 km (9:48 / km) +28m 9:26 / km
shoes: Asolo FSN 95
Energy Park Short Hike
4:18 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
0.2 °C; Cloudy
Not much to report except that the snow is slowly but surely vanishing.
4:18 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
0.2 °C; Cloudy
Not much to report except that the snow is slowly but surely vanishing.
Monday Feb 15, 2016 #
4 PM
Hiking 36:29 [1] 3.66 km (9:58 / km) +31m 9:34 / km
shoes: Asolo FSN 95
Energy Park Short Hike
4:21 PM; Hamline Midway/Como Park
0.3 °C; Cloudy
Mild weather, snow not quite slushy but soft.
4:21 PM; Hamline Midway/Como Park
0.3 °C; Cloudy
Mild weather, snow not quite slushy but soft.
Sunday Feb 14, 2016 #
8 AM
Hiking 23:05 [1] 1.47 km (15:42 / km) +4m 15:30 / km
Walking on the Bay
8:55 AM; Mt. Ashwabay, Bayfield WI
-16.6 °C; Clear
Stroll on the lake, taking in uncustomary perspectives and listening to the ice sing. Sometime the tones were shrill and unsettling. But a beautiful and crisp morning.
8:55 AM; Mt. Ashwabay, Bayfield WI
-16.6 °C; Clear
Stroll on the lake, taking in uncustomary perspectives and listening to the ice sing. Sometime the tones were shrill and unsettling. But a beautiful and crisp morning.
2 PM
XC Skiing Skate 38:53 8.63 km (4:30 / km) +99m 4:16 / km
ahr:143 max:156 shoes: Atomic Worldcup Skate '11
Sugarbush Road/Sugarbush Trail and Telford
3:18 PM; Mt. Ashwabay, Bayfield WI
-6.9 °C; Cloudy
One more lap, without the dogs. some double poling, V2 and just some more fun skiing! Zipped by Lynn at RP and she wasn't sure ti was me. Met up with her for the long drive home.
3:18 PM; Mt. Ashwabay, Bayfield WI
-6.9 °C; Cloudy
One more lap, without the dogs. some double poling, V2 and just some more fun skiing! Zipped by Lynn at RP and she wasn't sure ti was me. Met up with her for the long drive home.
XC Skiing Skijor 37:07 7.57 km (4:54 / km) +86m 4:38 / km
ahr:131 max:151 shoes: Atomic Worldcup Skate '11
Skijoring Sugarbush Road
2:38 PM; Mt. Ashwabay, Bayfield WI
-7.8 °C; Cloudy
After we dropped off Mellie, Roux's heart wasn't in it any longer. He came along but did not lean into the harness, as he did earlier, with Mellie. Nice to make it all the way to the sugar shack anyway. On the way back, Lynn called out to us, just as we were going down one of the steeper hills. That derailed us, since Roux yanked us sideways to greet her. I was more worried about him than about myself since I weigh a heck of a lot more than little Roux. But he was not hurt.
2:38 PM; Mt. Ashwabay, Bayfield WI
-7.8 °C; Cloudy
After we dropped off Mellie, Roux's heart wasn't in it any longer. He came along but did not lean into the harness, as he did earlier, with Mellie. Nice to make it all the way to the sugar shack anyway. On the way back, Lynn called out to us, just as we were going down one of the steeper hills. That derailed us, since Roux yanked us sideways to greet her. I was more worried about him than about myself since I weigh a heck of a lot more than little Roux. But he was not hurt.
XC Skiing Skijor 18:06 4.59 km (3:57 / km) +46m 3:45 / km
ahr:116 max:145 shoes: Atomic Worldcup Skate '11
Skijoring Sugarbush Road Mellie & Roux
2:16 PM; Mt. Ashwabay, Bayfield WI
-7.8 °C; Cloudy
Skijoring Sugarbush with Road Mellie & Roux. Mellie wasn't as fit as yesterday. I wonder whether it was the milder temps today or just an old pup being tired. Whatever the reason, I turned around at about the halfway mark to bring her back. Roux on the other hand was pulling hard.
2:16 PM; Mt. Ashwabay, Bayfield WI
-7.8 °C; Cloudy
Skijoring Sugarbush with Road Mellie & Roux. Mellie wasn't as fit as yesterday. I wonder whether it was the milder temps today or just an old pup being tired. Whatever the reason, I turned around at about the halfway mark to bring her back. Roux on the other hand was pulling hard.
Saturday Feb 13, 2016 #
7 AM
XC Skiing Skijor 34:31 7.45 km (4:38 / km) +88m 4:22 / km
ahr:136 max:153 shoes: Atomic Worldcup Skate '11
7:55 AM. Mt. Ashwabay, Bayfield WI
Skijoring Sugarbush Mellie & Roux 1 Lap
-19.9 °C ;Clear
-20.0 °C, beautiful sunshine, extremely slow snow. The trail had about 3 cm of fine snow dust on top, it felt like skiing in sand. The dogs were cold, it took them a while to warm up. Then they pulled steadily, all the way to Nourse Sugarbush. We did not dick around, all pictures we took were on the move, no desire to freeze in place. A beautiful morning!
Skijoring Sugarbush Mellie & Roux 1 Lap
-19.9 °C ;Clear
-20.0 °C, beautiful sunshine, extremely slow snow. The trail had about 3 cm of fine snow dust on top, it felt like skiing in sand. The dogs were cold, it took them a while to warm up. Then they pulled steadily, all the way to Nourse Sugarbush. We did not dick around, all pictures we took were on the move, no desire to freeze in place. A beautiful morning!
6 PM
XC Skiing Skate 33:02 9.91 km (3:20 / km)
shoes: Atomic Worldcup Skate '11
Book Across the Bay 2016
6:00 PM; Washburn, WI
-15.4 °C; Clear
Got to the start line about 5:00 before, no real warm-up. Rather slow out of the gate, from the second row. A ton of people passed me but of the next half hour I picked many off, one by one. I liked this year's course layout, hugging the shore. You could see the luminaries snake into the distance, dipping into bays and coming back out. BATB is over so quickly. When I got in, they did not register my time. Thought it might be related to the overhead scanner and the number with the chip on my thigh, my body shielding it from the timer. But they had a back up way to get it, an hour later I had it, a PB (which IMHO in nordic skiing does not mean much. But I moved up 16 spots from last year to 40. Very happy with that, though that may not mean much either.
I felt strong throughout, was able to pass skiers who looked technically much better than me. My eyes started burning during the last 2 km in spite of wearing my Cascos. The cold air made it in. Talked to one guy whose lids froze together.
Wax worked much better this PM than during the skijor with the dgs this morning, at -20.
Fun party after finishing!
6:00 PM; Washburn, WI
-15.4 °C; Clear
Got to the start line about 5:00 before, no real warm-up. Rather slow out of the gate, from the second row. A ton of people passed me but of the next half hour I picked many off, one by one. I liked this year's course layout, hugging the shore. You could see the luminaries snake into the distance, dipping into bays and coming back out. BATB is over so quickly. When I got in, they did not register my time. Thought it might be related to the overhead scanner and the number with the chip on my thigh, my body shielding it from the timer. But they had a back up way to get it, an hour later I had it, a PB (which IMHO in nordic skiing does not mean much. But I moved up 16 spots from last year to 40. Very happy with that, though that may not mean much either.
I felt strong throughout, was able to pass skiers who looked technically much better than me. My eyes started burning during the last 2 km in spite of wearing my Cascos. The cold air made it in. Talked to one guy whose lids froze together.
Wax worked much better this PM than during the skijor with the dgs this morning, at -20.
Fun party after finishing!
Friday Feb 12, 2016 #
7 AM
XC Skiing Classic 2:01:57 21.52 km (5:40 / km) +377m 5:13 / km
ahr:135 max:163 shoes: Atomic Worldcup Classic '13
7:50 AM. Mt. Ashwabay, Bayfield WI
Mt. Ashwabay Classic Raven-Deerpath-Sugarbush-Black Bear-Oppedahl's-Jolly's Long
-16.5 °C ;Partly cloudy
It was one of these mornings when the phlegm rolls on top of the snow when you expectorate (for real. The boy within conducts experiments with spit). But it was the best snow yet this winter, just awesome, in spit (oops, Freudian slip) of the cold. The sun wanted to peep through but was often veiled by clouds of snow of which i could not tell whether they came from above or whether they were loose snow picked up by the wind. Even in these blustery conditions, the tracks were surprisingly free of drifts. They were only apparent in exposed areas, like on top of Black Bear. Another great morning in the woods!
Kick wax worked great, Swix Polar and about 15 cm of Rex grip tape under the front half of my foot. Glide was OK, except where blowing snow had collected in the tracks.
Mt. Ashwabay Classic Raven-Deerpath-Sugarbush-Black Bear-Oppedahl's-Jolly's Long
-16.5 °C ;Partly cloudy
It was one of these mornings when the phlegm rolls on top of the snow when you expectorate (for real. The boy within conducts experiments with spit). But it was the best snow yet this winter, just awesome, in spit (oops, Freudian slip) of the cold. The sun wanted to peep through but was often veiled by clouds of snow of which i could not tell whether they came from above or whether they were loose snow picked up by the wind. Even in these blustery conditions, the tracks were surprisingly free of drifts. They were only apparent in exposed areas, like on top of Black Bear. Another great morning in the woods!
Kick wax worked great, Swix Polar and about 15 cm of Rex grip tape under the front half of my foot. Glide was OK, except where blowing snow had collected in the tracks.
Wednesday Feb 10, 2016 #
4 PM
Hiking 38:50 [1] 3.64 km (10:40 / km) +26m 10:18 / km
shoes: Asolo FSN 95
Energy Park Short Hike
4:30 PM; Hamline Midway/Como Park
-10.6 °C; Cloudy
Kind of nippy. Glad there wasn't a strong wind.
4:30 PM; Hamline Midway/Como Park
-10.6 °C; Cloudy
Kind of nippy. Glad there wasn't a strong wind.
Tuesday Feb 9, 2016 #
7 AM
Strength: Flexibility 30:37 1.29 km (23:44 / km) +3m 23:28 / km
ahr:122 max:157 shoes: Nike Indoor Cross Trainers
Fit in 21 Class
7:02 AM; TPC
Target offered a C9 sponsored workout based on Fit in 21. I don't do these fitness classes who says no to a light breakfast, a free tec shirt and yoga mat? Not at all a bad workout, certainly got my juices flowing.
7:02 AM; TPC
Target offered a C9 sponsored workout based on Fit in 21. I don't do these fitness classes who says no to a light breakfast, a free tec shirt and yoga mat? Not at all a bad workout, certainly got my juices flowing.
4 PM
Hiking 34:53 [1] 3.21 km (10:52 / km) +31m 10:22 / km
shoes: Asolo FSN 95
Energy Park Short Hike
4:33 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
-9.0 °C; Clear
GPS Recorded distance correctly but not track. Weird. Cold wind, but undeterred. Chatted with Mike from across the street when we got home, his younger daughter is moving back from Houston.
4:33 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
-9.0 °C; Clear
GPS Recorded distance correctly but not track. Weird. Cold wind, but undeterred. Chatted with Mike from across the street when we got home, his younger daughter is moving back from Houston.
6 PM
XC Skiing Skate 1:00:55 13.3 km (4:35 / km) +234m 4:13 / km
ahr:135 max:163 shoes: Atomic Worldcup Skate '11
Sisu MYR: Last Official Session for the Season
6:43 PM; Hyland Park Reserve
-11.1 °C; Partly cloudy
Sisu MYR: Last Official Session for the Season. I really did not feel like going today. Still sore from Sunday's Loppet, Battle Creek icy but Hyland as an alternative. I suggested it to Karl, who immediately agreed. We were a little late and missed the start of practice. A short, fast pyramid was on the program. 1-2-3-3-2-1 minute intervals. Since we had missed the start, Karl and I did a fartlek instead, pushing it on every uphill, the short ones as well as the longer ones. After the weekend, the fast snow conditions at Hyland felt awesome! A great way to end another great Master's Year Round season.
6:43 PM; Hyland Park Reserve
-11.1 °C; Partly cloudy
Sisu MYR: Last Official Session for the Season. I really did not feel like going today. Still sore from Sunday's Loppet, Battle Creek icy but Hyland as an alternative. I suggested it to Karl, who immediately agreed. We were a little late and missed the start of practice. A short, fast pyramid was on the program. 1-2-3-3-2-1 minute intervals. Since we had missed the start, Karl and I did a fartlek instead, pushing it on every uphill, the short ones as well as the longer ones. After the weekend, the fast snow conditions at Hyland felt awesome! A great way to end another great Master's Year Round season.
Monday Feb 8, 2016 #
4 PM
Hiking 36:53 [1] 3.57 km (10:20 / km) +35m 9:51 / km
shoes: Asolo FSN 95
Energy Park Short Hike
4:12 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
-8.5 °C; Snow
Light snow and a brisk wind, seeing workers out on the rails. Rabbits on the embankment. One jumped right in front of me, the dogs went by it without seeing it. Checking out downspout ice climbing opportunities.
4:12 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
-8.5 °C; Snow
Light snow and a brisk wind, seeing workers out on the rails. Rabbits on the embankment. One jumped right in front of me, the dogs went by it without seeing it. Checking out downspout ice climbing opportunities.
Sunday Feb 7, 2016 #
9 AM
XC Skiing Skate race 2:38:48 39.33 km (4:02 / km) +591m 3:45 / km
ahr:154 max:169 shoes: Atomic Worldcup Skate '11
City of Lakes Loppet Skate
9:04 AM; Hopkins, MN
3.9 °C; Partly cloudy
~10 minutes faster than two years ago but farther back in the pack. Difficult conditions, like soft, deep snow, favor me. My technique isn't good enough for the firm skate deck, as today's. I felt more tired and sore after today than after Sisu Ski Fest four weeks ago. Karl, who was in wave 2, caught up to me in Eloise Butler and took 10 minutes off my time. His technique is flawless, that helps. Patty caught me somewhere on Minnikahda GC and took a good 5:00. But I'm happy anyway. I don't think I would have done as well as I did even last year. I was skiing with the same group of skiers from wave 1 most of the way, mostly following. I dropped a number of them at the last water stop (1080) and passed a couple more on Lake Calhoun (1055). I latched on to skier 1051 across the lakes and practically drafted her for the last stretch to the finish. Nice to have someone to focus on.
Waxing: could have been better. Used two layers of Rex HF Blue Graphite on top of RCF Blue. It worked fine in the sun but the snow started grabbing at my skis in the shady areas. Overall OK, especially when we got to the lakes. I think HF Blue might have been better.
Clothing: wore a thin undershirt my hydration vest under the race top. worked just fine. A headband was dropped to my neck about half way through. It felt cold when facing the strong W wind but warm when I was going with it.
9:04 AM; Hopkins, MN
3.9 °C; Partly cloudy
~10 minutes faster than two years ago but farther back in the pack. Difficult conditions, like soft, deep snow, favor me. My technique isn't good enough for the firm skate deck, as today's. I felt more tired and sore after today than after Sisu Ski Fest four weeks ago. Karl, who was in wave 2, caught up to me in Eloise Butler and took 10 minutes off my time. His technique is flawless, that helps. Patty caught me somewhere on Minnikahda GC and took a good 5:00. But I'm happy anyway. I don't think I would have done as well as I did even last year. I was skiing with the same group of skiers from wave 1 most of the way, mostly following. I dropped a number of them at the last water stop (1080) and passed a couple more on Lake Calhoun (1055). I latched on to skier 1051 across the lakes and practically drafted her for the last stretch to the finish. Nice to have someone to focus on.
Waxing: could have been better. Used two layers of Rex HF Blue Graphite on top of RCF Blue. It worked fine in the sun but the snow started grabbing at my skis in the shady areas. Overall OK, especially when we got to the lakes. I think HF Blue might have been better.
Clothing: wore a thin undershirt my hydration vest under the race top. worked just fine. A headband was dropped to my neck about half way through. It felt cold when facing the strong W wind but warm when I was going with it.
3 PM
Hiking 39:25 [1] 3.28 km (12:01 / km) +28m 11:32 / km
shoes: Asolo FSN 95
Energy Park Short Hike
3:58 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
3.4 °C; Cloudy
Shake-out walk after the long ski today.
3:58 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
3.4 °C; Cloudy
Shake-out walk after the long ski today.
Saturday Feb 6, 2016 #
2 PM
XC Skiing Skijor 33:34 9.25 km (3:38 / km) +36m 3:34 / km
ahr:157 max:171 shoes: Atomic Worldcup Skate '11
City of Lakes Skijoring Loppet
2:00 PM; Lake Calhoun
3.0 °C; Light rain
Lil' Roux's first race! He did very well. I had been worried that he'd be pulling left and right, to visit with spectator or opponent dogs. But no, he kept at it. He does not have quite Mellie's competitive streak but he runs much easier. No wonder at 5 kg less in weight. He did get tired after one lap but we were able to stick with a group of skiers that passed us and even pass them back before the finish. One small tangle up with a two-dog 5k team, when they passed. We were almost as fast as two years ago, but the conditions then were quite a bit better. And there was the above mentioned competitive streak of the seasoned racing lab.
With temps above freezing, the snow was soft and there were wet spots on the lake. But that did not deter us. I'm a little worried about tomorrow's skate loppet, though. It's going to be a slog. But not only for me.
2:00 PM; Lake Calhoun
3.0 °C; Light rain
Lil' Roux's first race! He did very well. I had been worried that he'd be pulling left and right, to visit with spectator or opponent dogs. But no, he kept at it. He does not have quite Mellie's competitive streak but he runs much easier. No wonder at 5 kg less in weight. He did get tired after one lap but we were able to stick with a group of skiers that passed us and even pass them back before the finish. One small tangle up with a two-dog 5k team, when they passed. We were almost as fast as two years ago, but the conditions then were quite a bit better. And there was the above mentioned competitive streak of the seasoned racing lab.
With temps above freezing, the snow was soft and there were wet spots on the lake. But that did not deter us. I'm a little worried about tomorrow's skate loppet, though. It's going to be a slog. But not only for me.
Friday Feb 5, 2016 #
4 PM
Hiking 34:02 3.33 km (10:13 / km) +29m 9:48 / km
ahr:104 max:137 shoes: Asolo FSN 95
Energy Park Short Hike
4:03 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
-1.5 °C; Snow
The usual walk, with happy dogs, running through deep snow. When we got done, I chatted with Diane from across the street. Snowflakes in the air! We like that.
4:03 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
-1.5 °C; Snow
The usual walk, with happy dogs, running through deep snow. When we got done, I chatted with Diane from across the street. Snowflakes in the air! We like that.
Thursday Feb 4, 2016 #
4 PM
XC Skiing Skijor 29:03 7.14 km (4:04 / km) +96m 3:49 / km
ahr:145 max:159 shoes: Atomic Worldcup Skate '11
Skijoring Roux 2 Laps
4:48 PM; Hamline Midway/Como Park
-3.3 °C; Partly cloudy
Pretty good couple of loops. One wipe out when Roux stopped in his tracks when I said "no" while we were passing another team. He did not go over to say hi, but I had to spread my legs not to run into him. Beautiful evening light and no further problems with other pooches, there were quite a few.
4:48 PM; Hamline Midway/Como Park
-3.3 °C; Partly cloudy
Pretty good couple of loops. One wipe out when Roux stopped in his tracks when I said "no" while we were passing another team. He did not go over to say hi, but I had to spread my legs not to run into him. Beautiful evening light and no further problems with other pooches, there were quite a few.
XC Skiing Skijor 13:55 3.54 km (3:56 / km) +46m 3:41 / km
ahr:135 max:157 shoes: Atomic Worldcup Skate '11
Skijoring Mellie & Roux 1 Lap
4:29 PM; Hamline Midway/Como Park
-3.3 °C; Partly cloudy
Skijoring Mellie & Roux 1 Lap. Started out with a face plant, right near the parking area. Mellie was being very wild, pulling and shaking the rope with her muzzle. I think I stumble over her and landed face first in the snow. The rest was pretty good, but poor Mellie can't keep up anymore. It seems like Roux is pulling both Mellie and me. May need to take her by herself for the warm-up or cooldown and do three laps with Roux separately.
4:29 PM; Hamline Midway/Como Park
-3.3 °C; Partly cloudy
Skijoring Mellie & Roux 1 Lap. Started out with a face plant, right near the parking area. Mellie was being very wild, pulling and shaking the rope with her muzzle. I think I stumble over her and landed face first in the snow. The rest was pretty good, but poor Mellie can't keep up anymore. It seems like Roux is pulling both Mellie and me. May need to take her by herself for the warm-up or cooldown and do three laps with Roux separately.
Wednesday Feb 3, 2016 #
4 PM
XC Skiing Skijor 15:57 3.55 km (4:30 / km) +47m 4:13 / km
ahr:138 max:157 shoes: Atomic Worldcup Skate '11
Skijoring Roux 1 Lap
5:09 PM; Hamline Midway/Como Park
-6.5 °C; Clear
Only one lap today, needed to hurry home to meet Karl. Many dogs out, it's hard for Roux not to stop and say hay to every canine. One woman was walking across the golf course withe her dog, we saw them nearby 4-5 times. First time Roux wanted to really go see them. Second time it went better, last time he just kept going.
5:09 PM; Hamline Midway/Como Park
-6.5 °C; Clear
Only one lap today, needed to hurry home to meet Karl. Many dogs out, it's hard for Roux not to stop and say hay to every canine. One woman was walking across the golf course withe her dog, we saw them nearby 4-5 times. First time Roux wanted to really go see them. Second time it went better, last time he just kept going.
XC Skiing Skijor 14:55 3.51 km (4:15 / km) +49m 3:58 / km
ahr:129 max:148 shoes: Atomic Worldcup Skate '11
Skijoring Mellie & Roux 1 Lap
4:48 PM; Hamline Midway/Como Park
-6.3 °C; Clear
Skijoring Mellie & Roux 1 Lap. Not our finest lap, by far. Saw our friend with the two labs, got by without too much hold-up. Then during the downhill along Edgecumbe, Mellie decided to go wild and try to grab the rope with her muzzle just as we were passing a skier. Focusing on Mellie, I neglected to direct Roux and she snagged the skier with the rope, passing on the wrong side. The skier was totally oblivious of the danger because she was listening to music. Apologized about that fact, but it was our mistake. Embarrassing ...
4:48 PM; Hamline Midway/Como Park
-6.3 °C; Clear
Skijoring Mellie & Roux 1 Lap. Not our finest lap, by far. Saw our friend with the two labs, got by without too much hold-up. Then during the downhill along Edgecumbe, Mellie decided to go wild and try to grab the rope with her muzzle just as we were passing a skier. Focusing on Mellie, I neglected to direct Roux and she snagged the skier with the rope, passing on the wrong side. The skier was totally oblivious of the danger because she was listening to music. Apologized about that fact, but it was our mistake. Embarrassing ...
6 PM
XC Skiing Classic 9:31 1.09 km (8:44 / km) +7m 8:28 / km
ahr:136 max:147 shoes: Rossignol Max Classic
Como Classic Cooldown Lap
7:33 PM; Hamline Midway/Como/Roseville
-8.1 °C; Clear
7:33 PM; Hamline Midway/Como/Roseville
-8.1 °C; Clear
XC Skiing Classic 59:22 10.24 km (5:48 / km) +144m 5:25 / km
ahr:143 max:167 shoes: Rossignol Max Classic
Como Classic 2 Laps
6:33 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
-7.7 °C; Clear
Make up session for yesterday's storm cancellation for Karl and me. My old Rossis had very nice glide and decent kick, using grip tape. Would have gladly raced this way. Conditions were very soft, deep in some places, very shallow elsewhere. It had been groomed, but like at Highland 9-Hole earlier, the wind had moved snow around. There were quite a few skiers out, I think all of them striders, like us. The ski hill was busy, too, with skiers and snowboarders. Reminded me of Bruegel's winter paintings. First lap very busy, second lap, nobody left. Karl said: "Now that was pleasant." I agree.
6:33 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
-7.7 °C; Clear
Make up session for yesterday's storm cancellation for Karl and me. My old Rossis had very nice glide and decent kick, using grip tape. Would have gladly raced this way. Conditions were very soft, deep in some places, very shallow elsewhere. It had been groomed, but like at Highland 9-Hole earlier, the wind had moved snow around. There were quite a few skiers out, I think all of them striders, like us. The ski hill was busy, too, with skiers and snowboarders. Reminded me of Bruegel's winter paintings. First lap very busy, second lap, nobody left. Karl said: "Now that was pleasant." I agree.
Tuesday Feb 2, 2016 #
4 PM
Hiking 36:40 [1] 3.58 km (10:15 / km) +42m 9:40 / km
shoes: Nike Air Pegasus+ 30
Energy Park Short Hike
4:06 PM; Hamline Midway/Como Park
-1.4 °C; Snow
Fun hike through ~15 cm of fresh, soft snow. Freshly frozen puddles under snow are treacherous, went down on way home. During walk, I slipped when we ran along one of the Snelling exit ramp embankments. No damage done, except to my pride. Snow plowing going on at Energy Park lots, friendly plow operators waved to us and gave us plenty of space. I stayed out to shovel the sidewalk, dogs went in.
4:06 PM; Hamline Midway/Como Park
-1.4 °C; Snow
Fun hike through ~15 cm of fresh, soft snow. Freshly frozen puddles under snow are treacherous, went down on way home. During walk, I slipped when we ran along one of the Snelling exit ramp embankments. No damage done, except to my pride. Snow plowing going on at Energy Park lots, friendly plow operators waved to us and gave us plenty of space. I stayed out to shovel the sidewalk, dogs went in.
Monday Feb 1, 2016 #
4 PM
Hiking 37:00 [1] 3.69 km (10:02 / km) +24m 9:43 / km
ahr:92 max:110 shoes: Asolo FSN 95
Energy Park Short Hike
4:32 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
-0.6 °C; Cloudy
Very quiet campus today, checked with a security guard, indeed no classes today. But some track & field or xc runners were out. Energy Park looks calico, grass speckled with leftover snow or snow with grass peeping through. A fat tire slowly making his way up the pedestrian bridge ramp and the dogs getting very friendly with a pair of lovebirds sitting in a dry spot on the ramp. I see couples sitting here all the time, both teenaged and young adults, a regular lovers' lane. The Hamlin pedestrian bridge does not strike me as very romantic, but hey, that's in the eye of the beholder. City kids have to have some place to go.
4:32 PM; Hamline Midway/Frogtown
-0.6 °C; Cloudy
Very quiet campus today, checked with a security guard, indeed no classes today. But some track & field or xc runners were out. Energy Park looks calico, grass speckled with leftover snow or snow with grass peeping through. A fat tire slowly making his way up the pedestrian bridge ramp and the dogs getting very friendly with a pair of lovebirds sitting in a dry spot on the ramp. I see couples sitting here all the time, both teenaged and young adults, a regular lovers' lane. The Hamlin pedestrian bridge does not strike me as very romantic, but hey, that's in the eye of the beholder. City kids have to have some place to go.