Monday, June 13, 2011
Martha and the No Limits Ladies running to the finish at Wasa Olympic
Martha and the No Limits Ladies running to the finish at Wasa Olympic
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Janine's Vulcan (sprint) Triathlon Race Report
I loved it! It occurred to me after that the training was much more difficult than the race (maybe I didn't push hard enough) In spite of practicing on and off the bike I was still nervous about the transitions before. My 11 year old swim start was 10:15 and mine was at 11:00 so I didn't have much of a warm up unless you count jumping up and down and cheering. Swim was fine, bike it was sooo cold and the head wind on the way back was brutal. I was able to stay aero almost the whole ride. During training I struggled at bit with the aero position. I felt a bit sick when I first started to run but then I realized in the rush to get to Vulcan and get organized that I hadn't eaten anything for 5 hours maybe a small snack at 9:30 would have helped? When I put my running shoes on I realized I couldn't feel my feet (yes it was that cold). I completed the run and still didn't have much feeling in my feet. Swim time 13:01, bike 37:13, run 24:45 overall place was 158/510 age group 17/86 females. I made my goal of being in the top 50% but I always look for where I could have done better. I am happy and ready to train hard for the next month for the Heart of the Rockies sprint. Thanks Coach for preparing me so well!
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Wednesday, June 08, 2011
No Limits Hawaii Training Camp
No Limits Hawaii Training Camp
Looking back on the camp I can say that it was a huge success. This is what we did. We started off most days with a swim in the Pacific Ocean at Hapuna Beach. This is one of the best beaches in Hawaii and once we started swimming we could see why. Warm water that was so clear you could see to the bottom even when you are 20 or more feet deep. Having this visibility made it great to see where you are going and also to view in awe at the coral and fish below. The turtles were very rare to see but Ian was able to sight one just before the start of the race and it made his day.
If you have never biked on the big island before you will be in for a treat when you come for a visit. On our 1st day we were greeted by the strong Kona winds on the way up to Hawi (turnaround of IronMan Hawaii). I cautioned everyone about the winds but until you experience them first hand it is hard to explain. Although Calgarians do know thing or two about wind.
We quickly learned that in order to stay on our bikes we had to lean our bikes into the gusting wind. The fun part was that you never knew exactly when they would hit. We did learn to watch the trees and other riders in the distance to see when the wind would hit them. Fortunately for us we did not have anyone blown off the road and at the end of the camp we all became well adept at riding in the wind. Epic was a word that was tossed around a bit after each ride. Over the course of the week we were treated to some amazing views of Haleakala on Maui, the blue Pacific ocean, Mauna Kea (dormant volcano), black lava fields and Pololu and Waipio lookouts. One aspect of the rides that I really enjoyed was that you never knew what was coming up around the corner and often times we were rewarded with another…”Wow look at that…”
The house that we stayed at was absolutely gorgeous. Something out of a dream home magazine. We would eat breakfast, lunch and dinner all outside and we were constantly being entertained by the local inhabitants. Geckos, toads, poi fish and a variety of birds. At the end of some of our rides we needed to ride back to the house and of course the house is situated up a very steep hill. What a great way to end the ride with a lung buster climb.
Now since the house area was so hilly we had to drive to complete our run workouts. We found a great quiet road down by the beach and it was a perfect addition for a Swim / Run brick. We learned how to deal with heat and hydration issues on this great stretch of road.
We had lots of changes in the weather that made the workouts just a bit more challenging. One day the winds really stirred up the ocean and this allowed us to practice our rough water swim technique. At the end of this swim some commented that they did not need any more salt today. This was a really great opportunity to practice and build swim confidence.
Race Day:
We did not know what to expect but we were ready for whatever. We trained hard in the wind, surf and heat. What would the day bring? Well as it turns out the winds were not that bad, the surf was up but no swells and the sun was out typical Hawaii style. This was perfect. The swim was rougher than we expected as we have been practicing our swims with 10 swimmers now we had 1600. The bike felt great as we built strong legs and minds from the previous day’s hard work. The run was hot, yes, but we were ready for it as we always ran in the heat.
Here is how everyone did at the Hawaii 70.3 Ironman:
Coach Todd 4:45
Ian 5:00
Chris 5:17
Doug 5:34
Stephanie 5:36
Tanya 6:13
Dave 7:18
This was an amazing week of training that ended with a world class race. I am already counting the days until next year’s camp.
Mahalo and Happy Training!!
Todd
Looking back on the camp I can say that it was a huge success. This is what we did. We started off most days with a swim in the Pacific Ocean at Hapuna Beach. This is one of the best beaches in Hawaii and once we started swimming we could see why. Warm water that was so clear you could see to the bottom even when you are 20 or more feet deep. Having this visibility made it great to see where you are going and also to view in awe at the coral and fish below. The turtles were very rare to see but Ian was able to sight one just before the start of the race and it made his day.
If you have never biked on the big island before you will be in for a treat when you come for a visit. On our 1st day we were greeted by the strong Kona winds on the way up to Hawi (turnaround of IronMan Hawaii). I cautioned everyone about the winds but until you experience them first hand it is hard to explain. Although Calgarians do know thing or two about wind.
We quickly learned that in order to stay on our bikes we had to lean our bikes into the gusting wind. The fun part was that you never knew exactly when they would hit. We did learn to watch the trees and other riders in the distance to see when the wind would hit them. Fortunately for us we did not have anyone blown off the road and at the end of the camp we all became well adept at riding in the wind. Epic was a word that was tossed around a bit after each ride. Over the course of the week we were treated to some amazing views of Haleakala on Maui, the blue Pacific ocean, Mauna Kea (dormant volcano), black lava fields and Pololu and Waipio lookouts. One aspect of the rides that I really enjoyed was that you never knew what was coming up around the corner and often times we were rewarded with another…”Wow look at that…”
The house that we stayed at was absolutely gorgeous. Something out of a dream home magazine. We would eat breakfast, lunch and dinner all outside and we were constantly being entertained by the local inhabitants. Geckos, toads, poi fish and a variety of birds. At the end of some of our rides we needed to ride back to the house and of course the house is situated up a very steep hill. What a great way to end the ride with a lung buster climb.
Now since the house area was so hilly we had to drive to complete our run workouts. We found a great quiet road down by the beach and it was a perfect addition for a Swim / Run brick. We learned how to deal with heat and hydration issues on this great stretch of road.
We had lots of changes in the weather that made the workouts just a bit more challenging. One day the winds really stirred up the ocean and this allowed us to practice our rough water swim technique. At the end of this swim some commented that they did not need any more salt today. This was a really great opportunity to practice and build swim confidence.
Race Day:
We did not know what to expect but we were ready for whatever. We trained hard in the wind, surf and heat. What would the day bring? Well as it turns out the winds were not that bad, the surf was up but no swells and the sun was out typical Hawaii style. This was perfect. The swim was rougher than we expected as we have been practicing our swims with 10 swimmers now we had 1600. The bike felt great as we built strong legs and minds from the previous day’s hard work. The run was hot, yes, but we were ready for it as we always ran in the heat.
Here is how everyone did at the Hawaii 70.3 Ironman:
Coach Todd 4:45
Ian 5:00
Chris 5:17
Doug 5:34
Stephanie 5:36
Tanya 6:13
Dave 7:18
This was an amazing week of training that ended with a world class race. I am already counting the days until next year’s camp.
Mahalo and Happy Training!!
Todd
Friday, May 27, 2011
No Limits Hawaii 70.3 training camp is about to begin
This weekend myself and 9 athletes will be heading away from rainy Calgary and looking forward to soaking up some sun on the big Island of Hawaii. We will have 5 filled days of training with rides ranging from 3500 vertical feet change to riding along the ledgendary Queen K highway. Look for updates on my facebook account.
Athletes attending are Ian, Doug, Dave, Phoenix, Stephanie, Tanya, Blair, Chris and Leslie. Oh did I forget to mention that we finish off the trip with Hawaii 70.3. :)
Aloha!
Athletes attending are Ian, Doug, Dave, Phoenix, Stephanie, Tanya, Blair, Chris and Leslie. Oh did I forget to mention that we finish off the trip with Hawaii 70.3. :)
Aloha!
Try this triathlon
Just this past weekend we saw Multisportscanada put on their annual Try this triathlon. This is an amazing event for beginners and those who want a short and quick refresher before race season is full on.
No Limits had 3 athletes doing their 1st Triathlon. Keith, Sandy and Leslie Ann. they all had a blast and are loking forward to #2. Hopefully the weather will warm up the lakes 1st :)
Next race is Calgary half marathon and full and then wasa and Vulcan. It is getting busy! :)
Keith at Try this tri
No Limits had 3 athletes doing their 1st Triathlon. Keith, Sandy and Leslie Ann. they all had a blast and are loking forward to #2. Hopefully the weather will warm up the lakes 1st :)
Next race is Calgary half marathon and full and then wasa and Vulcan. It is getting busy! :)
Keith at Try this tri
Sunday, May 01, 2011
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
The card speaks for itself
After our Boston marathon debriefing Sue pulled out this card that Mary gave her some years ago. Usually the card is on her fridge but this year Sue brought the card for some extra motivation.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Sue's Boston Marathon Report
I thoroughly enjoyed my Boston...in fact it was the most fun ever. I did manage to run for the first half and it wasn't too bad but after Heartbreak Hll I just decided to walk and putter and take it all in even more. I had a blast up until then just running along the white line on thee right side of the course smiling and high fiving or doing whatever the music called for, with the crowd along the side. I just kept interacting with the crowd and the miles just slowly went by. I (and you) knew I had not trained sufficiently for this race so my goal was to minimize my losses and get to the finish upright. I feel I achieved my goals. I sprinted along Boylston to the finish and at the line my legs were the best they have been in years. I felt fine. I had walked most of the last 5 miles or so but I really didn't mind. I knew I did not have it in me to push on the minimal long distance training I had done. So I just got into the spirit and thanked every red sox, or bruin, or other Bostonian for what has been for me quite a grand run in Boston beginning in 1996. Doing it on and off for 15 years and managing to be in the top 10 in my age group many times I am now looking back and darn proud. I really did have a good time.
So thank you Coach Todd.
P.S. God Bless Grete Waitz, a big hero of mine. I met her at my last NYNY marathon and had her autograph my t-shirt. Reading her obituary I see we shared the same birthdate.
Please note that Sue finished in a time of 4:48 and in 115th place in her age group!
Nice job Sue!!!!
So thank you Coach Todd.
P.S. God Bless Grete Waitz, a big hero of mine. I met her at my last NYNY marathon and had her autograph my t-shirt. Reading her obituary I see we shared the same birthdate.
Please note that Sue finished in a time of 4:48 and in 115th place in her age group!
Nice job Sue!!!!
Calgary Police half marathon
Well this race was one for the books. Louise woke up at 5:30 and looked outside and went back to bed. I think now that the race is over many would have wished that they too made that same decision.
The roads were very snow covered and icy. There were lots of crashes and racers needed to adjust to the ever changes road conditions. No limits had quite a few racers who braved the conditions. I am not going to post times this time around. Here is a quote from an anonymous racer:
"That was probably the stupidest thing I have done from a racing/training standpoint. Conditions were horrible and I fell twice, as did most of the people I talked to. I have a long list of injuries but I think most of them aren't too serious."
I want you to really think about this.... Just because you sign up for an event does not mean you need to do it. Or go fast because it is a race. Sometimes it is OK to go back to bed or to turn down your race dial and safely cruise the race.
Something to think about next time.....
Next race for many is Vegas IronGirls should be no snow :)
The roads were very snow covered and icy. There were lots of crashes and racers needed to adjust to the ever changes road conditions. No limits had quite a few racers who braved the conditions. I am not going to post times this time around. Here is a quote from an anonymous racer:
"That was probably the stupidest thing I have done from a racing/training standpoint. Conditions were horrible and I fell twice, as did most of the people I talked to. I have a long list of injuries but I think most of them aren't too serious."
I want you to really think about this.... Just because you sign up for an event does not mean you need to do it. Or go fast because it is a race. Sometimes it is OK to go back to bed or to turn down your race dial and safely cruise the race.
Something to think about next time.....
Next race for many is Vegas IronGirls should be no snow :)
Monday, April 11, 2011
Mazatlan Gran Pacifico Race Report by Rob Kelly
My Mazatlan adventure began with a very understanding and patient Nina and I talking about taking a few days of holiday sometime in March orApril. Our schedules did not line up to do anything before May, and
Nina was kind enough to agree to me doing something on my own. It looked like it might not happen, as it was April all of the sudden andI hadn't planned anything yet.
But after carefully planning my race season, and aggressively training for up to 7 hours a week, I decided (with some serious influence from Rose, Madi and Nathan) on Thursday to fly to Mazatlan for a Saturday
race. I fumbled around in the dark packing what gear I could find at 5:45 am on Friday, doing my best to not wake up Nina. I arrived in Mazatlan with shoes, sunglasses, and a singlet. The Serpicos came to
my rescue true to form, with Madi supplying shorts and gels, and Rose lending me her bike, helmet, and sunscreen (I stopped on the second loop of the bike at the Rose aid station for sunscreen - we chatted
with John from Minnesota while I lathered up). Jordan adjusted the bike so I could ride it without hitting the handlebars with my knees (for the most part), and with a dip in the ocean (first time - they're
not kidding when they call it salt water) on Friday evening, I felt ready to rumble.
After an early morning tour of most of Mazatlan from a cabbie ostensibly finding us a Starbucks (aka local convenience store - Rose "what? No! Starbucks! Oh, forget it, race, triathlon, monumenta del...., (to me) don't you feel we're getting ripped off?..." we arrived at the race headquarters where I grabbed a coffee and muffin for pre-race nutrition and headed into transition, not entirely sure when my heat started, and soon discovering the Gatorade bottle was too small for the bottle holder on Rose's bike. Rose took care of finding
me the only water bottle at the expo, while I set up transition and meandered down to the beach, assuming I'd see a group of people with E's printed on their legs running into the ocean at some point.
Juan from Mexico City showed me what the swim course would be while we stood waiting for the horn, and then suddenly we were off. The ocean was awesome - big waves, warm enough to swim comfortably without a wetsuit, the sun was coming up, and I just kept smiling as I thought "I'm swimming in the ocean in Mexico!"
I eventually managed to finish the swim and completely forgot to notice the Pacifico girls in their shiny hot pants who were there to direct us to transition. I hopped on Rose's bike, with her helmet perched on the back of my head and chin strap choking me very slightly, and charged out to the bike course all befuddled with the draft-legal, new-bike, sunny-weather environment and managed to push about the hardest gear I could for 15 k before I realized I was allowed to spin at a reasonable cadence. Once I figured that out, I
wiped out. It happened at the turnaround near transition, so I had a full audience who cheered me as I stood up with the help of a volunteer and sped away for the next loop. I was now feeling my groove
but all the packs of drafters were long gone, so I paced with a guy for the better part of the next 10k till I finally dropped him and rode in solo.
My Gatorade and gel only diet was by now starting to take it's toll. I was dying for a bit of water, but instead I went for the only available fluid in transition which happened to be half a bottle of powerade I had by my bike. The first 2 k of the run was a bit of a fog while I tried the snazzy bags of water to cool off. Thanks to Rose I knew not to drink them, and instead I focussed on pouring as much of the cold water on my head and back. My pace wasn't exactly blistering, and I wondered how my Achilles/calf would hold out. With a bit of
confusion as to where the loop vs finish shoot was (thanks again to a helpful official and a lot of input from spectators for getting me back on track), I headed out for my second lap feeling parched but otherwise optimistic. I slowed down at 7km because I could feel my Achilles just a bit, and thought it would probably be smarter to trade my hope of a world record on this course for what will most likely be a jaw-dropping performance at IMC.
Needless to say the roar of the crowd was a bit overwhelming as I jogged over the finish line, and I managed to avoid what would have been a long press conference by finding Rose and going out to cheer Madi and Jordan, who both impressed me with their drive and performance. Kids these days! I felt old, slow, and really inspired by how these athletes put everything on the line.
18th out of 30 in my age group, 2:34. Might be the slowest Tri I've done, but up there as far as why I love the sport. It was like I put my brain in the wash for a day. Now it's time for the next adventure!
Nina was kind enough to agree to me doing something on my own. It looked like it might not happen, as it was April all of the sudden andI hadn't planned anything yet.
But after carefully planning my race season, and aggressively training for up to 7 hours a week, I decided (with some serious influence from Rose, Madi and Nathan) on Thursday to fly to Mazatlan for a Saturday
race. I fumbled around in the dark packing what gear I could find at 5:45 am on Friday, doing my best to not wake up Nina. I arrived in Mazatlan with shoes, sunglasses, and a singlet. The Serpicos came to
my rescue true to form, with Madi supplying shorts and gels, and Rose lending me her bike, helmet, and sunscreen (I stopped on the second loop of the bike at the Rose aid station for sunscreen - we chatted
with John from Minnesota while I lathered up). Jordan adjusted the bike so I could ride it without hitting the handlebars with my knees (for the most part), and with a dip in the ocean (first time - they're
not kidding when they call it salt water) on Friday evening, I felt ready to rumble.
After an early morning tour of most of Mazatlan from a cabbie ostensibly finding us a Starbucks (aka local convenience store - Rose "what? No! Starbucks! Oh, forget it, race, triathlon, monumenta del...., (to me) don't you feel we're getting ripped off?..." we arrived at the race headquarters where I grabbed a coffee and muffin for pre-race nutrition and headed into transition, not entirely sure when my heat started, and soon discovering the Gatorade bottle was too small for the bottle holder on Rose's bike. Rose took care of finding
me the only water bottle at the expo, while I set up transition and meandered down to the beach, assuming I'd see a group of people with E's printed on their legs running into the ocean at some point.
Juan from Mexico City showed me what the swim course would be while we stood waiting for the horn, and then suddenly we were off. The ocean was awesome - big waves, warm enough to swim comfortably without a wetsuit, the sun was coming up, and I just kept smiling as I thought "I'm swimming in the ocean in Mexico!"
I eventually managed to finish the swim and completely forgot to notice the Pacifico girls in their shiny hot pants who were there to direct us to transition. I hopped on Rose's bike, with her helmet perched on the back of my head and chin strap choking me very slightly, and charged out to the bike course all befuddled with the draft-legal, new-bike, sunny-weather environment and managed to push about the hardest gear I could for 15 k before I realized I was allowed to spin at a reasonable cadence. Once I figured that out, I
wiped out. It happened at the turnaround near transition, so I had a full audience who cheered me as I stood up with the help of a volunteer and sped away for the next loop. I was now feeling my groove
but all the packs of drafters were long gone, so I paced with a guy for the better part of the next 10k till I finally dropped him and rode in solo.
My Gatorade and gel only diet was by now starting to take it's toll. I was dying for a bit of water, but instead I went for the only available fluid in transition which happened to be half a bottle of powerade I had by my bike. The first 2 k of the run was a bit of a fog while I tried the snazzy bags of water to cool off. Thanks to Rose I knew not to drink them, and instead I focussed on pouring as much of the cold water on my head and back. My pace wasn't exactly blistering, and I wondered how my Achilles/calf would hold out. With a bit of
confusion as to where the loop vs finish shoot was (thanks again to a helpful official and a lot of input from spectators for getting me back on track), I headed out for my second lap feeling parched but otherwise optimistic. I slowed down at 7km because I could feel my Achilles just a bit, and thought it would probably be smarter to trade my hope of a world record on this course for what will most likely be a jaw-dropping performance at IMC.
Needless to say the roar of the crowd was a bit overwhelming as I jogged over the finish line, and I managed to avoid what would have been a long press conference by finding Rose and going out to cheer Madi and Jordan, who both impressed me with their drive and performance. Kids these days! I felt old, slow, and really inspired by how these athletes put everything on the line.
18th out of 30 in my age group, 2:34. Might be the slowest Tri I've done, but up there as far as why I love the sport. It was like I put my brain in the wash for a day. Now it's time for the next adventure!
Monday, March 14, 2011
St Pats 5 and 10 Km
Well St Pats is now over. We had a great day to race.
The brick class used this race as the run component of the brick. We earlier rode for 2 hours at Tri-It. This was a great way to warmup before the race.
Calgary was not in the deep freeze this weekend and everyone was happy. The course was quite good with a few icy sections but as long as you slowed down everything was fine. This was a new course for St Pats and it was a pleasant change. We started at Central Memorial High and then ran to the resevoir then alongside Glenmore and then back to the school. There were a few small hills in the course which made the race interesting to say the least. I think almost everyone enjoyed themselves and the biggest lesson the brick class learned was that nutrition plays a huge role in exercise and racing. We need calories to fuel our bodies.
Here is how everyone did:
Coach Todd 39:18
Ian 39:36
Kevin 42:06
Rob 42:38
Raf 43:42
Louise 45:08
Chris 46:00
Paul 48:42
Mary 49:28
Julie 57:28
Keith 1:14:00
In the 5 Km
Bill 22:54
Karen 29:57
Great job everyone and looking forward to the next race. Icebreaker April 3.
The brick class used this race as the run component of the brick. We earlier rode for 2 hours at Tri-It. This was a great way to warmup before the race.
Calgary was not in the deep freeze this weekend and everyone was happy. The course was quite good with a few icy sections but as long as you slowed down everything was fine. This was a new course for St Pats and it was a pleasant change. We started at Central Memorial High and then ran to the resevoir then alongside Glenmore and then back to the school. There were a few small hills in the course which made the race interesting to say the least. I think almost everyone enjoyed themselves and the biggest lesson the brick class learned was that nutrition plays a huge role in exercise and racing. We need calories to fuel our bodies.
Here is how everyone did:
Coach Todd 39:18
Ian 39:36
Kevin 42:06
Rob 42:38
Raf 43:42
Louise 45:08
Chris 46:00
Paul 48:42
Mary 49:28
Julie 57:28
Keith 1:14:00
In the 5 Km
Bill 22:54
Karen 29:57
Great job everyone and looking forward to the next race. Icebreaker April 3.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Stepping Stones
Happy Valentines day! This weekend we saw Rob and Monica complete the hypothermic half mara-thon. The weather was far from being hypothermic, probably because Mary was not running in it. :)
Ironman Canada is Rob and Monica’s main goal this year and this race was a stepping stone towards Penticton in August. I really like having my athletes do these small stepping stones as it gives many benefits.
#1: You are guaranteed a workout. I like to sign up for half marathons as this guarantees me a run of 21 Km.
#2: This is a great chance to measure your fitness and see how your training is going.
#3: Motivation. This can work both ways. If you have a great race you will be motivated to train to see further improvement. If you have a poor race you will be motivated to train so that you will race strong-er at the next race (I have done this before :) ).
#4: Race strategy. Test races are great ways to try out new race strategies. You can test out many things like pacing, maintaining a specific HR, nutritional or even different shoes. Having a slower time at a test race is OK as it is a chance to learn.
#5: Racing is fun. You get to see familiar faces and catch up with people you only see at races.
#6: It is hard to push yourself in training as you do in racing. We all need to experience this once in a while.
#7: Racing will give you something interesting to talk about. :)
I hope everyone picks some interesting stepping stones towards their goal this year. Some upcoming stepping stones are listed below.
Upcoming stepping stones:
St Pats 10 Km, Ice breaker 10 Km, 1500 Timed swim, Around the bay, Police and Calgary half's.
No Limits Swim video class March 6
Training Camps
Hawaii 70.3, IMC Calgary camp July 15-17, IMC Penticton camp July 29-31. Details soon!
Ironman Canada is Rob and Monica’s main goal this year and this race was a stepping stone towards Penticton in August. I really like having my athletes do these small stepping stones as it gives many benefits.
#1: You are guaranteed a workout. I like to sign up for half marathons as this guarantees me a run of 21 Km.
#2: This is a great chance to measure your fitness and see how your training is going.
#3: Motivation. This can work both ways. If you have a great race you will be motivated to train to see further improvement. If you have a poor race you will be motivated to train so that you will race strong-er at the next race (I have done this before :) ).
#4: Race strategy. Test races are great ways to try out new race strategies. You can test out many things like pacing, maintaining a specific HR, nutritional or even different shoes. Having a slower time at a test race is OK as it is a chance to learn.
#5: Racing is fun. You get to see familiar faces and catch up with people you only see at races.
#6: It is hard to push yourself in training as you do in racing. We all need to experience this once in a while.
#7: Racing will give you something interesting to talk about. :)
I hope everyone picks some interesting stepping stones towards their goal this year. Some upcoming stepping stones are listed below.
Upcoming stepping stones:
St Pats 10 Km, Ice breaker 10 Km, 1500 Timed swim, Around the bay, Police and Calgary half's.
No Limits Swim video class March 6
Training Camps
Hawaii 70.3, IMC Calgary camp July 15-17, IMC Penticton camp July 29-31. Details soon!
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Wednesday, February 09, 2011
Customed made Guru - Experienced by Mike DeLuca
When people are considering buying a bike and ask me what they should get or what to look for, I consistently tell them the same thing every time…fit! Bike fit is the most important thing when it comes to buying and riding a bike. Think about it, when you buy a pair of running shoes, you make sure they’re going to fit you perfectly. You certainly wouldn’t spend $200 on a pair of running shoes that don’t fit properly, or that might give you blisters, knee pain, back pain, etc. If you do end up buying shoes that don’t fit properly, you won’t enjoy running. That pretty much applies to most things, if you swim it’s a proper fitting wetsuit or goggles. If you’re tall, buying a Smartcar or Mini Cooper could get uncomfortable pretty fast. If you’re planning to take that car on a long trip, it’s exponentially worse. The same logic applies to bikes. If your bike is too big or small, that’s obvious…to most cyclists…but what about those bikes that “pretty much” fit, or are “close enough?” We tend to only have the option of stock bikes and have to find ways of adjusting them accordingly to make them fit.
This bit of wisdom came to me over years of learning about biking, but more so by trial and error on my own. So when it came time for me to get a new bike, I promised myself I would take the appropriate time and effort to make sure I bought the bike that fit me best. I figure, if I’m going to put in the financial commitment into a new bike and if I’m going to have this bike for a long time, it should be ‘right’ for me. After I’d painstakingly figured out which bike I was going to get, I contacted a friend at a bike shop and I was going buy it through him. After a little while he presented me with another option on bike fit that I’d never considered. A custom built frame, specifically designed for my unique body shape and needs. After doing a little more research, I decided to practice what I preach and go with buying a custom frame and so I decided to do this through Guru. So when Lino (my buddy with the bike shop) told me that we could go directly to the factory for a sizing appointment, and he was able to get us a factory tour, I jumped at the chance!
Figure 1 Mike and Lino on the tour.
I knew about Guru and that they made a great bike, were small, Canadian, but I wasn’t aware of their ability to build custom bikes. I figured they were just a smaller, high end bike company. Was I wrong! Although they build stock bike frames and sell completely built bikes, and yes they are quality bikes, they’re mainly a custom bike company. I was completely unaware of the specialty service they provide! High quality is one thing, there is an oversaturated market of high quality bikes out there. But there are very few custom bike builders out there. There are even fewer that can provide the quality and service, with the international reach. When you mention custom bike I automatically think some hobbiest in his garage, building metal framed bikes for a local market. But Guru is providing hand built, custom designed metal and carbon fiber bike frames to an international market. Pretty unique in my books.
Figure 2 The Photon
Figure 3 The CR.901
Over a weekend visiting Lino in Orleans, Ontario (just outside of Ottawa), we took the 1.5 hour drive to Montreal to visit the guys at Guru. Our day started with a coffee and the drive. Pulling into the parking lot of the head office and factory, you’re presented with an understated yet elegant looking building. Perhaps an indication of things to come. Guru are known as a company that focuses on quality first and the appearance of their head office and factory building reflects that. We were greeted at the entrance by Mike, the Guru rep that Lino deals with through his store. He’s a high energy and friendly guy, who provided us with genuine kindness and hospitality. Another trait I realized later that is pervasive throughout everyone at Guru. The cliché term would be to say Guru ‘family.’ It’s a small group people of sharing the same enthusiastic attitude about bikes that gives you a definite family sense. This was confirmed when within a couple minutes of meeting Mike, I was offered (and accepted) a very tasty cup of espresso. A sense of the Italian ancestry that is part of the founders of the company. At one point I was expecting to see someone’s Nona in the back making some pasta! How could I not feel at home.
Figure 4 Getting a coffee from the VP.
Right after introductions to the office staff we were treated to a guided tour of the factory. It started where the bikes start; a room where sheets of carbon fibre are outlined with stencils for cutting. Once the fabric has been outlined, pieces are cut out by hand and placed into the appropriate mouldings. Normally when I hear handmade, or hand crafted, I would consider this part to be automated. Nope, not these guys. It was at that point that the level of detail Guru puts into its products really started to sink in. We moved from there to a room filled with carbon fibre tubes; head tubes, top tubes, seat tubes, bottom brackets…well, you get the point. This is where the bikes are ‘assembled.’ Or as Guru puts it, “building bikes one soul at a time.”
Figure 5 Carbon Fiber being hand cut.
Figure 6 Mike showing off the seat tube and bb of a CR.901
Guru uses a 30/70 resin to carbon fibre ratio. When the fabrics are place within the mould, Mike explained that they go in at 35/65, but during the process 5% comes out. We were treated to a seat tube and bottom bracket being removed from its mould. In the modern age of automated factories, even the process of removing the excess resin is completed by hand. The frames are then sanded and smoothed for priming and then painting. It’s at this point that all bikes, both metal and carbon fibre, converge.
Figure 7 A frame getting ready for painting
Ever damage your bike and figure you’re going to have to buy a new one, or if you have the determination contact the bike company and hope they will help you out. Maybe only charge you for the shipping or painting, but in the end you pray they will help repair (or most often) replace it! The guy at Guru will gladly repair you cracked or broken frame and do their best to repair your bike. Whether it’s carbon fibre or metal, they will repair or replace the broke piece (stays, top tube, etc.) and at the same time examine the frame and refurbish it to new. Yet another uncommon service provided.
Figure 10 A frame being fixed.
We had focused mainly on carbon fibre fabrication, but Guru also makes steel and titanium bikes. The option of custom frames is also provided for these materials. We stood for a while were the titanium and steel frames were built and admired the smooth and clean welds. After having numerous metal framed bikes, I’m accustomed to very solid, strong welds that have thick but good looking beading. But when you’re presented with such clean looking weld points, you realize the Guru difference yet again. Okay, I don’t mean to gush, I’m not a welder but those look pretty darn good to me! One of the options that steel provides is having flexibility in the designs. For 2011, Guru has added some flare and a special touch to their titanium frames.`
Figure 12 Special touches on a titanium frame
Once the tour was over (and we were done drooling over the buffet of bikes), it was time for the bike fitting. I was looking to get a Guru Cr.901 and Lino was getting fitted for a custom titanium road bike. The unique part of a bike fitting with Guru is their proprietary Dynamic Fit Unit (DFU). It’s a specially designed, completely automated and computerized bike fitting unit. The DFU doesn’t much look like a bike, more like a metal bike box with handle bars, a saddle, and crank set. Attached to the back is a flywheel which is set up with a Computrainer. On the wall in front of the DFU are two TV screens, one is the computer monitor showing the DFU software and the second shows the Computrainer outputs.
Figure 14 The DFU
The fitting starts with taking a series of body measurements and entering them in the accompanying DFU computer software. Along with measurements of inseam, torso length, shoulder width and arm length, they also enter parameters such as back flexibility, history of injuries, type of pedalling (i.e., spinning or mashing on a scale from 1 to 5), intended use for riding (road, short triathlon, long triathlon, etc.), and so on. I’m sure there are some parameters I’m forgetting, but that just shows how much information is taken into consideration.
Figure 16 Getting the handlebars just right.
Once all the parameters are entered, the DFU sets itself to the appropriate bike settings specific to the person getting fitted. The DFU puts you to approximately 95% to the proper sizing fit. Then it’s time to finally get on the bike and start riding. From there the rest of the bike adjustments are made to the millimetre by entering the changes into the computer. Once the new coordinates are entered, the DFU does all the work while you ride! I’ve never had such a better bike fitting. We ended up defining 5 position settings that were best for me, while observing my power outputs and spin scan from the Computrainer. Along with how each position feels, we looked at my spin and power to determine which position was optimal for me. In the end, we decided on two positions, one slightly more relaxed and one more aggressive, that would eventually be the design for my bike frame.
Once a set of position coordinates are selected and entered into the system, they are sent to the Guru factory and stored on file. That way, should I choose to buy another bike in the future they have the positions already on file for me to pick from. The most interesting part was when I cooled down from my ride and they were getting ready for the next bike fitting, Mike went off and designed my bike frame. Within just a few short minutes I was provided with a schematic of my bike frame with its geometry and another schematic with the appropriate saddle height and stem length and angle.
After just 3 short weeks, my bike was sitting in Lino’s store in Ottawa. Now I’m just waiting for the remaining parts to come in and I’ll be riding my new, custom built, CR.901. Can’t wait!
Figure 21 Coming at wopping 3 pounds!
Figure 22 Personalized!
This bit of wisdom came to me over years of learning about biking, but more so by trial and error on my own. So when it came time for me to get a new bike, I promised myself I would take the appropriate time and effort to make sure I bought the bike that fit me best. I figure, if I’m going to put in the financial commitment into a new bike and if I’m going to have this bike for a long time, it should be ‘right’ for me. After I’d painstakingly figured out which bike I was going to get, I contacted a friend at a bike shop and I was going buy it through him. After a little while he presented me with another option on bike fit that I’d never considered. A custom built frame, specifically designed for my unique body shape and needs. After doing a little more research, I decided to practice what I preach and go with buying a custom frame and so I decided to do this through Guru. So when Lino (my buddy with the bike shop) told me that we could go directly to the factory for a sizing appointment, and he was able to get us a factory tour, I jumped at the chance!
Figure 1 Mike and Lino on the tour.
I knew about Guru and that they made a great bike, were small, Canadian, but I wasn’t aware of their ability to build custom bikes. I figured they were just a smaller, high end bike company. Was I wrong! Although they build stock bike frames and sell completely built bikes, and yes they are quality bikes, they’re mainly a custom bike company. I was completely unaware of the specialty service they provide! High quality is one thing, there is an oversaturated market of high quality bikes out there. But there are very few custom bike builders out there. There are even fewer that can provide the quality and service, with the international reach. When you mention custom bike I automatically think some hobbiest in his garage, building metal framed bikes for a local market. But Guru is providing hand built, custom designed metal and carbon fiber bike frames to an international market. Pretty unique in my books.
Figure 2 The Photon
Figure 3 The CR.901
Over a weekend visiting Lino in Orleans, Ontario (just outside of Ottawa), we took the 1.5 hour drive to Montreal to visit the guys at Guru. Our day started with a coffee and the drive. Pulling into the parking lot of the head office and factory, you’re presented with an understated yet elegant looking building. Perhaps an indication of things to come. Guru are known as a company that focuses on quality first and the appearance of their head office and factory building reflects that. We were greeted at the entrance by Mike, the Guru rep that Lino deals with through his store. He’s a high energy and friendly guy, who provided us with genuine kindness and hospitality. Another trait I realized later that is pervasive throughout everyone at Guru. The cliché term would be to say Guru ‘family.’ It’s a small group people of sharing the same enthusiastic attitude about bikes that gives you a definite family sense. This was confirmed when within a couple minutes of meeting Mike, I was offered (and accepted) a very tasty cup of espresso. A sense of the Italian ancestry that is part of the founders of the company. At one point I was expecting to see someone’s Nona in the back making some pasta! How could I not feel at home.
Figure 4 Getting a coffee from the VP.
Right after introductions to the office staff we were treated to a guided tour of the factory. It started where the bikes start; a room where sheets of carbon fibre are outlined with stencils for cutting. Once the fabric has been outlined, pieces are cut out by hand and placed into the appropriate mouldings. Normally when I hear handmade, or hand crafted, I would consider this part to be automated. Nope, not these guys. It was at that point that the level of detail Guru puts into its products really started to sink in. We moved from there to a room filled with carbon fibre tubes; head tubes, top tubes, seat tubes, bottom brackets…well, you get the point. This is where the bikes are ‘assembled.’ Or as Guru puts it, “building bikes one soul at a time.”
Figure 5 Carbon Fiber being hand cut.
Figure 6 Mike showing off the seat tube and bb of a CR.901
Guru uses a 30/70 resin to carbon fibre ratio. When the fabrics are place within the mould, Mike explained that they go in at 35/65, but during the process 5% comes out. We were treated to a seat tube and bottom bracket being removed from its mould. In the modern age of automated factories, even the process of removing the excess resin is completed by hand. The frames are then sanded and smoothed for priming and then painting. It’s at this point that all bikes, both metal and carbon fibre, converge.
Figure 7 A frame getting ready for painting
Ever damage your bike and figure you’re going to have to buy a new one, or if you have the determination contact the bike company and hope they will help you out. Maybe only charge you for the shipping or painting, but in the end you pray they will help repair (or most often) replace it! The guy at Guru will gladly repair you cracked or broken frame and do their best to repair your bike. Whether it’s carbon fibre or metal, they will repair or replace the broke piece (stays, top tube, etc.) and at the same time examine the frame and refurbish it to new. Yet another uncommon service provided.
Figure 10 A frame being fixed.
We had focused mainly on carbon fibre fabrication, but Guru also makes steel and titanium bikes. The option of custom frames is also provided for these materials. We stood for a while were the titanium and steel frames were built and admired the smooth and clean welds. After having numerous metal framed bikes, I’m accustomed to very solid, strong welds that have thick but good looking beading. But when you’re presented with such clean looking weld points, you realize the Guru difference yet again. Okay, I don’t mean to gush, I’m not a welder but those look pretty darn good to me! One of the options that steel provides is having flexibility in the designs. For 2011, Guru has added some flare and a special touch to their titanium frames.`
Figure 12 Special touches on a titanium frame
Once the tour was over (and we were done drooling over the buffet of bikes), it was time for the bike fitting. I was looking to get a Guru Cr.901 and Lino was getting fitted for a custom titanium road bike. The unique part of a bike fitting with Guru is their proprietary Dynamic Fit Unit (DFU). It’s a specially designed, completely automated and computerized bike fitting unit. The DFU doesn’t much look like a bike, more like a metal bike box with handle bars, a saddle, and crank set. Attached to the back is a flywheel which is set up with a Computrainer. On the wall in front of the DFU are two TV screens, one is the computer monitor showing the DFU software and the second shows the Computrainer outputs.
Figure 14 The DFU
The fitting starts with taking a series of body measurements and entering them in the accompanying DFU computer software. Along with measurements of inseam, torso length, shoulder width and arm length, they also enter parameters such as back flexibility, history of injuries, type of pedalling (i.e., spinning or mashing on a scale from 1 to 5), intended use for riding (road, short triathlon, long triathlon, etc.), and so on. I’m sure there are some parameters I’m forgetting, but that just shows how much information is taken into consideration.
Figure 16 Getting the handlebars just right.
Once all the parameters are entered, the DFU sets itself to the appropriate bike settings specific to the person getting fitted. The DFU puts you to approximately 95% to the proper sizing fit. Then it’s time to finally get on the bike and start riding. From there the rest of the bike adjustments are made to the millimetre by entering the changes into the computer. Once the new coordinates are entered, the DFU does all the work while you ride! I’ve never had such a better bike fitting. We ended up defining 5 position settings that were best for me, while observing my power outputs and spin scan from the Computrainer. Along with how each position feels, we looked at my spin and power to determine which position was optimal for me. In the end, we decided on two positions, one slightly more relaxed and one more aggressive, that would eventually be the design for my bike frame.
Once a set of position coordinates are selected and entered into the system, they are sent to the Guru factory and stored on file. That way, should I choose to buy another bike in the future they have the positions already on file for me to pick from. The most interesting part was when I cooled down from my ride and they were getting ready for the next bike fitting, Mike went off and designed my bike frame. Within just a few short minutes I was provided with a schematic of my bike frame with its geometry and another schematic with the appropriate saddle height and stem length and angle.
After just 3 short weeks, my bike was sitting in Lino’s store in Ottawa. Now I’m just waiting for the remaining parts to come in and I’ll be riding my new, custom built, CR.901. Can’t wait!
Figure 21 Coming at wopping 3 pounds!
Figure 22 Personalized!
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