Weather Schmeather!

So, it’s January, and you really want to ride your bike! But it’s JANUARY and it’s 26 degrees outside. Surely that’s too cold to venture out, right? Well, no. 

You’ve probably heard the one about how “there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad apparel choices”, right? While we might not agree entirely (after all, who wants to ride a bike during a hurricane, for example ), we do generally agree that if the roads are not icy there really isn’t any temperature at which it’s too cold to ride a bike.

So, how DOES one keep warm when the temperatures plummet? The keys to success are proper layering, minimal breaks, and hot beverages (we’re fans of thermoses that fit in our bottles cages).

Proper layering. We've all heard this term, but what does it really mean? There are 3 parts to effective layering:

1. A moisture management inner or base layer – having wet or sweat-damp clothing against the skin is the surest way to feel chilly in cold weather. The ideal base layer is one that grabs the moisture and transfers it AWAY from your skin and TO the outer face of the base layer, where it can move into the mid (insulating) layer of your apparel. While the base layer may not be dry on the outer face, the inner face of the fabric should feel dry to the touch, thus keeping you warmer. It is important that you pick a base layer size that provides you with a FORM FIT. The fabric must touch your body to work properly.
   
2. An insulating mid layer – This is the layer that retains the heat being generated by your body. Synthetic insulating layers generally do this by trapping heat between the fibers of the peached/brushed/lofted materials they are constructed from. Wool insulating layers do this as a natural function of the wool fiber itself, trapping the heat inside the fibers.
   
3. A wind/water outer layer, also known as a shell – This is the layer that protects you from what Mother Nature throws AT you.
   
   
   Chose a thermal wind blocking soft shell for cold but dry conditions. 
   Garments of this type generally have a windproof outer face, often covering the entire garment, but sometimes with strategically placed panels of thermal material only to aid in venting excess heat. The outer face will also typically have a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) treatment that will help mist or light rain bead up and roll off the jacket rather than being absorbed. This feature will generally be overwhelmed with moisture if the wet weather is persistent, so do not rely on soft shell to stay dry if the weather is expected to be persistently rainy.  The inner face will generally be an insulating layer. Choose a weight depending upon your personal “thermometer”.
   
   
   For wet weather, choose a waterproof hard shell. 
   Waterproof shells use a waterproof membrane (such as GoreTex or eVent) which is generally laminated between a face fabric and an inner material for durability. The face fabrics are also typically treated with a DWR application to aid in moisture beading off the garment. While waterproof shells are also great wind layers, they do not move moisture vapor as fast as a typical wind shell, so some people are prone to overheating in waterproof shells. Waterproof shells are best reserved for wet conditions, when possible.

This general layering system can be applied to the bottom half of your body as well. When it’s very cold, choose a cycling knicker or tight, add some wool socks, and cover it all with a pair of wind-blocking, non-chamois tights such as the Pearl Izumi Amfib Tight.

Face, fingers and toes all need to be protected as well. Choose a cycling cap like the Hincapie Arenberg which covers the ears, or a thermal balaclava when temps fall below freezing. Choose windproof and/or waterproof insulated gloves to keep fingers warm. 

Remember that after taking a break, the first thing to feel chilled when you start riding again will be the extremities like your fingers and toes! Ride a little harder after a break and those digits should warm back up again in 10-20 minutes. Don’t hesitate to get some help from modern science. Chemical toe and hand warmers can be a digit-saver in really cold conditions. They don’t work when wet, however, so try to keep your hands and feet dry in the rain, by using waterproof accessories.

One final note about layering on your legs and feet – when overlapping layers, think like a roofer putting shingles on a roof and don't give the water a path in towards your skin. Tights or rain pants should go outside and on top of your booties.   If you tuck your pants in, you'll end up channeling runoff directly into your shoes!

Want some suggestions? Here are some of Susan’s personal favorites:

1. 
   Moisture management base layer: “I’m a huge fan of having a synthetic moisture transfer baselayer against my skin. My personal favorites are Pearl Izumi’s base layers made with Minerale as well as Craft’s Active Extreme base layers, particularly the configuration with the Moving Wing feature. Both of them move moisture like a champ.”
   
2. 
   Insulating mid layer: “The ability to retain warmth when wet gives wool the upper hand as an insulating layer. Modern wool is super soft, never scratchy, retains its shape, is machine washable, and is warm even when wet. I love the cycle-specific jerseys from Ibex, such as the Giro Jersey and from Icebreaker, such as the Viva Jersey.
   
3. 
   Wind/water outer shell layer: “Here in the rainy Pacific NorthWet, most of my winter rides find me in a GoreTex Ultralight Oxygen Jacket. On the rare occasions when it’s dry enough (which generally means it’s very cold!) to go without a fully waterproof layer, I am partial to a windproof soft shell, like the GORE Windstopper Jackets that we carry.

This past Sunday (January 13th), Susan rode 71 miles during which the temperature averaged 28 degrees. How did she stay warm? Here’s what she wore, head to toe.

• Sugoi Balaclava
• Pearl Izumi Minerale L/S Windfront Baselayer
• Wool Jersey (similar to Ibex Giro)
• Thermal Soft Shell jacket (Similar to GORE Winstopper Thermal)
• Pearl Izumi Best Ever Winter Glove
• Louis Garneau Pro Knickers
• Pearl Izumi Amfib Tights
• Smartwool Socks
• Little Hotties warmers
• Sidi Diablo Boots
• Pearl Izumi Amfib shoecovers

Why Consider Bib Shorts?

Some women find bibs to be more comfortable than shorts. The bib design eliminates the need for elastic around the waist and is therefore more forgiving in the mid-section. This feature is particularly attractive for women that have what is often called an "apple" shape, ie. A waist measurement that is large relative to their hip measurement. The bib strap design holds the shorts up and helps keep them in place. As with all cycling apparel, it's important to get the proper fit, size, and style for your body type and riding needs.

Many women have shied away from bibs because they perceive them as being a "pain in the butt" when it comes time to use the bathroom. Since the bib straps rest on the shoulders, it's usually necessary to remove the jersey or top for bathroom access. Many of our vendors have solved this issue by creating features that allow the shorts to disconnect at the back and drop down similar to standard shorts. These easy-access features have been designed as buckles, zippers, and 'drop-tail' flaps.

You can shop our entire selection of women's bib shorts here, or call us with all your questions! Don't take our word for it; read what our customers are saying about bibs below! Happy riding.

Power Bib Short

by Hincapie

Power up! The compression of the lycra in Hincapie’s Power Bibshort enhances your performance and reduces fatigue. The chamois is amazing, too, with one of the most comfortable constructions we’ve ever felt. With abrasion-resistant panels in the saddle wear areas, they really have thought of everything here. Get race-ready: all you need to do is pull this bibshort on and you’ll be ready for the podium.

These are amazing!

“I ride 150-200 miles a week and train for time trials throughout the summer. These are always my first choice for shorts because they are so amazingly comfortable. After wearing these I will only buy bib shorts in the future for all my shorts needs.”

Cynthia the cyclist, competitive cyclist

Manchester, ME

Absolutely Great

“Wore it for the first time on a 33 mile ride, and it was perfect. I also really liked the snap back that allowed me to drop the bottoms, so I could use the porta potties without worrying about straps dragging on the ground. I am a small, but with a long torso, so the length of the straps was a concern. A Team Estrogen customer service person helped me to find the best bib for my size, and she did a great job. Amazing service! They made that ride great, and I continue to enjoy wearing them. My riding buddy calls them my "Georges".”

Service and delivery comments:

“The delivery was fast, they arrived in perfect condition. I used a lot of customer service! I am sort of small, but with a long torso. The first pair of bibs I tried had straps that were too sort, so I started asking questions. Anna got my measurements, and went and tried on several pairs for me. She told me the Hincapies were a better length, and that the smalls should fit (rather than the mediums I was tending toward) and she was right. As a result of her help, I had my bibs in time for the Venus de Miles, and the ride was pure pleasure.”

b, avid cyclist

Boulder, CO

Xenon Zippety Doo Bib Shorts

By GORE BIKE WEAR

Cover all your bases with this sleek yet tough bib short. Welded seams along with compression panels provide unparalleled comfort and high performance. Abrasion resistant material ensures protection against chafing and a specially designed bottom allows for quick and easy bathroom breaks. If you are serious about your gear, this piece is for you.

Bibs Rock!

“Ladies, give these a try. Men have been wearing bibs for ages and for a good reason, they are more comfortable.”

wheelaway, casual/recreational cyclist

Portland, OR

The Perfect Bib

“The straps and the chamois are totally comfortable, the legs don't ride up, there's no pinching at the waist and the zippers are a dream - you don't feel them at all and they make it totally no hassle to "drop your drawers."

Long Distance Rider, avid cyclist

Silver City, NM

Mondo Bib Shorts

by Louis Garneau

The snug fit of a nice road cycling bib is hard to match. A well-made garment will fit over your body like a true second skin. Louis Garneau’s Mondo Evo Bib does exactly that, making you feel as efficient (fast!) as you can possibly be. With materials that help your body circulate blood, laser-cut cuffs that all but eliminate a transition from bib to skin, and a fit that’s second to none, this is a piece of gear that can actually make you faster. Amazing!

Outstanding bibs

“These bibs are just amazing. I really don't have enough words to describe them. They're invisible on the bike, even the chamois which I was worried would be a bit stiff and bulky, completely blends into my body and movement. The legs stay in place without any unnecessary squeezing from the compression bands. The fabric is effortless, great wicking, feels like it's part of my skin. These bibs are everything I ever expected high-end cycling apparel to be.”

CycleJane, avid cyclist

Austin, TX

No Squeezing!

“This is my first pair of bibs, so I can't compare them to other bibs...But I can say that I won't go back to shorts if I can help it! These are so comfortable and I never realized how constrictive shorts are around the waist until I put these on. The shoulder straps lay neatly along my sides. I love that there are no leg grippers/chafing. Initially I worried that the chamois was too thick, but it's actually quite comfy and somehow less obtrusive (and less visible!) than the thinner ones in my other shorts. Wicking is great all around.

The *only* reason that I give these 4 stars instead of 5 is that I feel they may run a bit small in the thigh. I am 5'2", 130 lbs, proportionally heavier in the hip and thigh. Usually I buy a large short to be safe and to avoid sausage effect, and that's what I did here. I find these bibs to be a bit tighter than I expected and the seaming was slightly awkward there. But I'll stress that it's purely a cosmetic issue, and not even a big one...I was still perfectly comfortable even though I wish my thighs looked a little smoother.

So if you're between sizes, especially below the belt, I'd advise you to round up. That said, I would absolutely recommend these awesome, comfy bibs!”

ohlefty, avid cyclist

Baltimore, MD

RSE Bib Short

By Sugoi

Sugoi pulled out all the stops with their RSE Bib Short. Aggressive styling, ultra-comfortable Cross-back bib straps, and their most advanced chamois. No comfort feature is overlooked with these; they’ve even eliminated an inseam for reduced bulk! There’s nothing to hinder you here, no reasons to worry about anything other than your ride. Comfortable and fast: what a combo.

Most comfortable bike short ever

“The thing I love about these shorts is that there is no waistband to dig into your stomach and hips. I love these shorts and will buy another pair within the next month or so. Worth every penny!”

Patbfit, avid cyclist

Clarkston, MI

Almost Perfect Bib

“Wide band at leg bottom makes this bib feel more compressive than my other bibs and the legs don't ride up. Because the straps don't have a clip, it's pretty easy to wiggle each arm out of the strap without taking off your jersey when you need to use the loo. When riding, however, the straps do feel tight on my shoulders - with my other bibs, am totally unaware of the straps. I do have a relatively long torso - if you don't, the straps might not be an issue ”

LBS, avid cyclist

Silver City, NM

FR Carbon Bib Shorts

By Giordana

Serious bibs for serious bike babes. The Giordana FR Carbon Bib Short is updated for 2011 with a slightly higher front rise. Constructed from a combination of HC44 compression fabric, Ametista™ with carbon fibers and perforated Antigua™fabric, these Giordana bib shorts are among the most advanced bibs on the market.

Great Bibs!

“A woman on a group ride recommended them. She said she loved them but that they ran small. Other reviews stated the same. I ordered one size larger and they fit perfect. These are my first pair of bibs and the most comfortable bike shorts I've ever worn. The pad isn't too bulky and the bottom of the legs don't give me sausage legs or cut into my thighs. I love them.”

Bikechick, avid cyclist

Midwest

nothing compares to these bibs!

“beware of these bibs! once you wear them, nothing will ever feel as nice. the body clone seamless technology is amazing and makes for a perfect (and flattering fit). the other shorts are in the drawer.”

lone rider, avid cyclist

Toronto, ON

AT LAST!!!!! A COMFY SHORT FOR WOMEN

“I have searched long and hard for a bike short that stays comfortable for the duration of the long rides - at last I have found it. Just enough padding without too many separate sections that sometimes tend to bind. More isn't always better.

If your looking for a comfortable short with a flattering fit, this is the short for you.”

Lozell, avid cyclist

Denver, CO

Drop Tail Cycling Bib Short

By Pearl Izumi

The Drop Tail Cycling Bib Short with In-R-Cool® technology is specially designed with the lady rider in mind. It offers the convenience of a drop tail so you can ride in your favorite bibs and make use of the facilities hassle free. No more peeling off those layers. Phew!

Comfortable and convenient

“For a long time, I was reluctant to try bib shorts given the high price. I finally decided to use a gift certificate to spring for a pair, and am glad I did.

I've had my Pearl Izumi drop-tail bib shorts for about a year, and use them on club rides and for racing. They are a marked improvement on regular shorts, particularly for longer rides, as there is no waistband to dig into you. The leg grippers are a little uncomfortable and rubbery-feeling off the bike, but not at all noticeable when riding. The drop-tail system works as advertised, so on group rides I can zip in and out of the restroom and not hold people up. (The drop-tail feature also keeps me a lot warmer than other bibs, with which I have to remove several layers to get the shorts off.) “

Squid, avid cyclist

Portland, OR

My new favorite shorts!

“These were my first pair of bibs and I was really hesitant to drop down the cash with all the mixed reviews I had seen about female bibs. All the negative reviewers are wrong, bibs are the way to go! I didn't even realize how much my regular shorts cut into my waist until I rode 50-ish miles wearing the bibs. Feels great to not worry about showing off the slit between my jersey and shorts! “

Bibs and Bikes, avid cyclist

Denver, CO

Surf City Marathon Race Report

Katie is TeamEstrogen.com's buyer and resident triathlete extraordinaire. Katie works hard to bring you the extensive and thoughtful selection of apparel you've come to expect from TE. She is also a two time finisher of Ironman Canada, and continues to see success in the sport she loves. Katie is our go-to gal for advice on wetsuits, swimwear, goggles, and all things triathlon. She recently raced the Surf City Marathon in Huntington Beach, CA. You can read her race report below!

by Katie, TE Buyer


My initial goal was to get through the training and run the event injury free. Being injury prone for the last couple years made this goal feel lofty.

Once I accomplished my training goal I decided to up the ante and set my sights higher. How would I know what I was capable of if I didn't push my limits? I decided to “race” the marathon and give it everything I had. At my first marathon (3 ½ years prior), I successfully ran and even qualified for the Boston Marathon, so I knew my goal wasn't far fetched.

When running a marathon (either Ironman or stand alone) I never think of the full distance because that would just be overwhelming and rather terrifying. Instead, I think of each mile I am going to run down.
Passing one mile marker after another, I remind myself of the training and hard work that have gotten me here.

I've never needed help finding motivation. My momma made sure I was stocked at birth. I am a person who has been humbled by injuries (let's also not ignore the fact I keep aging up). What I needed was help finding confidence that had faded over time. I found this confidence from my friends and family. They kept me company on long runs that scared me, listened to my worries and complaints, and provided positive, loving support. They joined me in post training feasts, although I don't think I had to twist anyone's arm. I'm now rambling on. What I'm getting at is they believed in me and gave me the tools I needed to believe in myself. Although I was running this marathon solo, I felt my friends were running with me. As corny as it sounds – My friends and family are the wind beneath my wings.

Back to the race!

Race day came and I felt confident. I walked up to the starting corral and waited with friends until the final count down. Bang! The gun went off and my engine went from idle to cruise control. I knew not to push the throttle. I stayed focused on breathing calm, keeping my upper body relaxed, and trying my best to run efficiently.

Everything felt good until mile 10 or 11. At this point, the course took a U-Turn and I ran directly in to the rising sun. Oy! My eyes! I wore sunglasses but ignored advice to wear a hat or visor. Sweat poured down my face and stung my eyes, blinding me as I ran towards the orange flaming ball. I ran without sight for a good five minutes while rubbing my eyes and prayed that I wouldn't run into someone. Thankfully, it passed and I regained my vision without needing to stop.

The run went on comfortably until right after mile marker 20. In a matter of seconds, my stomach wrenched and I spewed out my insides. Holy Moly! That was a disgusting first! My Gamin vibrated to alert me that I had stopped moving. Really?! So, on I continued . Now, my goal was to pick up my pace and reach the next aid station. I seriously needed to wash my mouth out or I was going to get sick again from the taste. As I approached the aid station, I grabbed whatever sports drink they offered and used it as mouth wash.

The last 10k felt like an eternity. I had thrown up all my GU and electrolytes and was now running on empty. I tried to channel caloric reserves from my rendezvous at Coldstone the night before. Once I lost nutrition, it was hard to keep a positive outlook. My legs wanted to run, but my body and mind did not. The darkness set in and I started to walk. I could only stand walking for a few seconds, I couldn't stand moving sooooo slow. I started to run again. This would only last a matter of minutes. I was too tired. I grabbed a banana from an aid station. I knew solid food would upset my stomach, but it didn't matter. If I didn't eat something I would have ended up walking all of it. The banana wasn't exactly rocket fuel, but it did allow me to pull my head out of my a** and run in the last bit.

I crossed the finish line at 3:43 – 7 minutes longer then my revised goal and a PW (personal worst). Although I didn't technically achieve my new goal; I still felt like a success. I did race the marathon, I continued to run after I puked, and I did not DNF (even though I secretly wanted to in the end). I stayed healthy training, during the race, and after into marathon recovery. I accomplished so much this day. I am a very grateful and proud woman for this experience.

Katie rocks Ironman Canada 2011

Preface

I won. No, I did not win IMC. No, I did not win my AG. I won the battle of health. In the last year and a half I have over come achilles tendonitis, frost bite and a stress fracture (second in 2 years!) I am learning how to live and train for endurance with rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia. Do you know what kind of mind f*** it is to have constant "phantom pains" and muscle fatigue? Joint flare ups that eliminate a key long distance workout are no walk in the park either. I paid for a coach that couldn't keep me healthy. I had doctors tell me that I was in the wrong sport. Whenever I would get healthy something in my body would break. I started to believe the negative words I heard from professionals. I thought my bad luck was never going to end. Basically I had no hope to continue training. If it wasn't for my Mom, Jesse and Robert.... I may have quit. These 3 people NEVER doubt me. They were my night light in my darkest hours. Sue and Alanna kept my light going during training and Don ensured my bike was safe to ride.

Pre Race

I couldn't have asked for the days leading up to the race to go any smoother. I stuffed my belly with OgoPogo's famous ice cream. Butterscotch ripple became my favorite! I rested my mind by watching Joe Dirt, The Jerk and The Best of Will Farrell's SNL. LMAO! I was surrounded by people I love – which kept me strong. For the first race ever – I was never nervous to race. For me the battle was won walking up to the swim start healthy. Race day was my celebration party with 2800+ new friends.

Swim

Was kick ass! I was supposed to meet my mom at the hotel an hour prior to the start but we missed one another. Robert and I got into the water to warm up. I hear some lady shouting from the sideline, she was waving her arms all about. It was my mama! I ran through the water to her. She rolled up her shorts and walked in to meet me. I was so happy I got to see her prior to the start. At this point I lost control of my emotions and started to cry – out of joy!

The tears had to quickly come to an end. I had an Ironman to race! I rejoined Robert at the start. I'll never forget standing behind the start line, in the water, holding his hand. It was the best feeling ever. A quick kiss and off we went.

How was the actual swim? It was easy-peasy! Seriously. I never felt nervous. Never had open water shock. Never had rapid breathing, even with getting pulled under numerous times. I was in my happy place. Every 3rd stroke I looked at the mountains and smiled before I inhaled. Life was good. This swim was good.

After rounding the last turn of the buoys (1/2-2/3 way in) I found myself alone. I had swum out wide and was close to the kayaks and sailboats. Uh-oh. No feet to draft and I was a bit off course! Agh! I focused on turning in to straighten/shorten out the rest of the course. I swam until I could touch the sand, jumped out and headed for the swim exit! 1:08:07 – 2 min PR baby!


T1 - Was short and sweet. I ran out of the water feeling fresh and giddy. How can one not feel giddy when you know you're about to get striped? I run over to two volunteers and say “Strip me ladies!” And they did. I was out of my wetsuit and on my bike in no time! 2:52 – PR again!

Bike

There's not too much to say about the bike. I had planned on riding the course at “x” amount of watts – which equaled 2.5watt per kg. It was forecasted to be a hot day so I rode more conservatively then I had originally planned. I ended up with a 2.4 avg.

The bike started with a bit of acid reflux. I'm sure this was provoked by lake water. Maybe OgoPogo polluted the water. I took some Zantax and rode the first 40ish miles uber easy. Ritcher came and I stayed in my granny gear to spin easily up watching my watts. Then I hit the rollers. They felt MUCH less difficult this year. The out and back came and went. I stayed aero and kept a pretty good pace. The ride went by so fast I didn't really start paying attention to mileage until around 70. This was my dark spot in '09. But not for '11. This was a power zone for me. I made a lot of passes from mile 70-85. As usual my power and endurance grew the longer I stayed out. History did repeat its self as I encountered the dark zone as I started the ascent up Yellow Lake. This was NOT a good place for me. I tried to stay positive and smiled as the fatigue started to chip away.

Perception is reality. If everyone thinks that I look strong I will perform as if I am strong. This carried me up the hill. I was looking forward to the descent but not so much the headwind. I had to work to go down which wasn't much fun. I could have done without the crosswind and the 3 times I had wheel wobble. I suppose it was just enough of a scare to wake me up for T2.

Finished in 6:03:18 – a :30 PR over '09, higher wattage and easier effort on a hotter, windier day. I had almost flawless nutrition and hydration. I never felt hot or thirsty on the bike. Thank you Maltodextrin and Saltstick! I had a little acid at the start but managed it well, medicating throughout the ride.

I owe a lot of “Thank You”'s for my bike leg. First goes to my bike fitter - Michael Sylvester. He found a crack in my bike frame, which resulted in a new and better bike. Michael also provided an outstanding fit, which helped with my comfort level, efficiency and run transition. I've been fit by others in the Portland area and Michael is the BEST, hands down. I have to raise my hands and praise Felt. They quickly replaced my B16 with a beautiful DA. I also have to thank my great riding partners Sue, Don and Alanna. You all made the longer rides much more enjoyable, even when my break was rubbing for 80+ miles. :). Alanna, you made bricks enjoyable....I think that might be an oxymoron.


T2 – T2 was pretty quick as well. In '09 my T2 was almost 10 minutes. I was not going to allow a repeat. I recited what needed to be done as I ran into the woman's tent. I did this again out loud so my volunteer could follow and help. LOVE volunteers. I quickly got my back shellacked in sunscreen and I was off in - 4:43. Another PR!

Run

This leg should have been called The Death March. I started running around 2:20pm. At this time the race director had requested that the locals turn on any sprinklers and watering hoses available. It was HOT. HOT like a habanero! I think the high hit 95 and I was running right in the midst of it.

I watched my pacing on my Garmin. After a measly 5 mins I ran into a wall of heat. I heard my mama cheering for me on my way in, off from the bike. I knew I'd have to put on a front and run “happily” by her, so she wouldn't see my suffering. I wish she had stayed with me for the run, if she had I may have never stopped to walk.

The “death march” started for me a little past mile 3. My 8:45 avg dropped to a 10 min pace by mile 6. It just went downhill from there. Mile 3 to mile 9 was my darkest time. I had a goal of breaking 11 hours. That was a long lost dream. The heat was pounding down. It was eating my energy alive. I feared I wouldn't be able to PR from '09. I ran up to a local athlete and I confessed my fear. We accessed the situation. From a muscular standpoint my legs were great. No fatigue, no cramping, no pain. Hydration and nutrition were also great. I was still consuming calories – even though I was repulsed by the taste and thought of gels. I was only suffering from the bubble of heat that I was encased in. When running I was avg'ing 8:20-8:40 pace. I just had to run more then I walked. He provided “hope” and off I ran....to try to salvage some kind of PR.


I opted out of bike and run special needs. I didn't want a reason to stop. Yet at the ½ way turn around on the run I stopped and walked. I wish I had packed a letter to myself. I'll make sure to do that on my next race. A little HTFU self note would have helped.

I ran by Sue on the way back. She had gotten two flats on the bike thus putting her behind me. She was feeling the wrath of the heat as well. We exchanged a quick hug; this was the highlight of my run. I wanted to stay and run with her, but we were too far apart.

My arms and lips were sun burnt. Each aid station I came upon I'd drench myself in water. I kept ice in my sports bra and sponges on my back and under my hat. I ran with ice in my hand to rub on my burning lips. At mile 15 I had to stop and go pee. It was the first time I had to go since the start of the race. I have never been so excited to have to pee, and be able to pee a lot! This girl was hydrated!

By 6pm I could feel the temperature start to fall. It was easier to hold my pace. The walk breaks became less frequent…..until mile 22 ½. Side stitch. Oh owe! The pain was immobilizing. I just stood on the side of the road and whimpered in pain. It felt like someone was cutting into my torso with a dull knife. A guy I had been run/walking past for the last 8 miles caught up to me. He advised me to stretch out my torso and press my hands firmly down on the cramp and try to run while doing so. It worked! Within minutes the cramp was gone and I was running pain free again. Thank you Greg from London, Ontario! I was able to run most of the way in and even sprint for the last ½ mile to the finish line. I crossed the line with the biggest smile ever. I am once again an IRONMAN.

Run time was 4:32:43 – 1min30 PR over last year :)


Post race recovery consisted of a rack of ribs, nachos and 3 martinis.

Gazelle Madelief

I picked up my new Gazelle Madelief this morning. This latest addition to my bicycle stable came courtesy of the the BTA's annual Alice Awards and Auction fundraising event. I didn't go to the event with the *intention* to buy a new bike, but upon arriving, I fell in love with it.

Today being one of the first truly warm, sunny days we've had all spring, I decided to take the bike to make the 8-9 mile round trip to the bank. Did I *really* need to go to the bank today. Sure. But what I REALLY needed was some fresh air and sunshine.

Pedaling a single speed upright bike with coaster brakes is a new experience for me. I discovered that it tops out of speeds of maybe 8-10 miles an hour, after which there's no point in doing anything other than relaxing and coasting as the world slowly passes by. And, I discovered that this is perfectly OK with me! At 8mph, there's no hurry. At 8mph, there's no sweating. At 8mph, I can look around and appreciate the sunny day and warm breezes.

Of course, I also discovered a few things about biking in the suburbs that is not readily apparent at 15-20mph.

Turning left at big intersections was an eye-opener. I'm typically a vehicular cyclist. I take the lane when I ride, and when I need to turn left, I cross the travel lanes and use the left hand turn lane. This is a perfectly reasonable thing to do at 15-20mph. At 8mph, it was uncomfortable. I couldn't accelerate to merge. Nor could I move speedily through the intersection when the left signal activated. Hhhmmm. On the trip home, I decided that at 8mph, the sidewalk and pedestrian signals seemed like a better way to get through these intersections.

I realized that I've gotten out of touch with what it feels like to be a slower/less confident cyclist. I've become so confident in my abilities over the years, that I've forgotten how fast and scary suburban high-speed traffic must feel to the transportation cyclist who only rides to get from point A to point B, and oftentimes does so on a bike not capable of moving very quickly.

As I navigated my way over the Highway 26 overpass (on the sidewalk, in the opposite direction of vehicle traffic) it also impressed upon me once again how terribly UNconducive to cycling our suburban roads really are. And that, if we truly want to see an increase in the ridership here in the suburbs, we simply must find a way to make our roads feel safer and more accessible to the folks riding along at 8mph.

The 2nd R

Reduce Reuse Recycle.

We've always recycled our cardboard and re-used the crushed paper, bubble wrap and other inner-packaging materials that come our way. However, one of our frequently used shipping materials, Tyvek envelopes, proved to be problematic.

Tyvek is theoretically a 100% recyclable product, but a local collection infrastructure does not exist. Instead, the recommended solution is to ship a big, new Tyvek bag stuffed full of the used Tyvek bags, all the way across the country, where the material will be down-cycled into plastic benches, decking and similar products. To us, this did not make much sense, so we decided to ask our customers if they would like the option to receive their orders in reused packaging.

The response to our query was overwhelmingly positive so we quickly implemented an option in our shopping cart to allow customers to select previously used packaging. We also switched from recycling cardboard boxes to reusing as many cardboard boxes as possible.

We are happy to report that more than 30% of our customers are now choosing this option!

THANK YOU to all of our customers who choose to reuse packaging - we appreciate your assistance in helping us to reduce our impact on the planet.

PS. We will still be recycling the Tyvek envelopes that have reached the end of their useful lives, but we are collecting them until a local recycling option becomes available or we can ship them in bulk via a freight carrier instead of the more expensive (and more polluting) small package carriers.

PPS. Yes, we are considering having the reuse option be checked by default. We'll work the kinks out first at lower volumes and if all goes well, it will become the default choice.