Stephen and Kerry

Meet Colorado’s TeamType1 – Elite Squad athletes.

2011-09-14T13:12:00.000-07:00

When: Thursday September 22nd

Where: Barbara Davis Center - lobby & conference room
(1775 Aurora Ct # A140, Aurora, CO 80045)

Time: 5:00-7:00pm

Light refreshments will be provided

Panel discussion and Open Q&A session with TeamType1 athletes.
Learn about how they train, fuel and manage their diabetes at an elite athlete level.

Discuss diabetes management routines, nutrition and anything else that is troubling you with how to be an athlete with diabetes.
Product vendors will be onsite to discuss diabetes products and nutritional options while exercising.

TT1 Participants include:
Dustin Folger – has had diabetes for 23 years, a long-time runner who took up cycling in college and specialises in omnimum and criterium road racing events.
Daniel Schneider – Has had diabetes for 15 years, Cat. 3 road racer who excels at going really fast for short distances.
Dan Cunkelman –has had diabetes for 13 yrs – focus is on XC/endurance Mountain Bike events
Kerry White – has had diabetes for 30 years and is a new mother. Specializes in ultra-endurance road and mountain bike events, as well as off road triathlons, Nordic skiing and Alpine touring.

The mission of TeamType1 athletes is “to instill hope and inspiration to people around the world affected by Diabetes. With appropriate Diet, exercise, treatment and technology, we believe anyone with diabetes can achieve their dreams”

Visit www.teamtype1.org for more information about Team Type 1, its athletes and mission.

The New Normal

2011-03-17T19:52:00.000-07:00

YIKES!! I cannot believe 7 months have passed since the birth of our precious bundle of joy Calen Nash White, born September 14, 2010. Some days it seems like it was an eternity ago that I was pregnant and struggling with the daily tasks of attempting to have perfect blood sugar control, maintain my sanity and pretending that I was still an athlete. Being pregnant seems like a bit of a blurr now and I can understand how some people forget what it was like and proceed to produce more offspring after they were heard to have said - I am never getting pregnant again. I am sticking to my guns on this statement, there will definitely only be one, One is plenty. Calen has been an incredible miracle in our lives.

The next phase began with an anticipated amniocentisis to determine if baby's lungs were adequately developed for them to begin induction. This was not to be as I did not have enough amniotic fluid, they did not want to take some of the little I had and determined induction would begin that evening no matter what. The Doctor also commented that I had an "Ugly Placenta", not the vote of confidence I was hoping for after 9+ months of torture. Induction began Monday evening around 11pm with my first dose of oxytosin the cervix softening drug they use when you are not dilated but they want to induce. This drug is delivered once every 4 hours, the cervix begins to soften with hope that labor will commence and progress. After 16 hours of labor, 4 doses of oxytosin, contractions increasing in pain and magnitude and only 3 cm of dilation things were not going great. I was pretty crushed, I could not handle the pain any longer and succumbed to an epidural. Stephen breathed a sigh of relief as I was finally able to make conversation with him and communicate, which had been difficult in hours 12-16 as the pain increased and my ability to tolerate decreased. I had assured him that I did not want to be asked if I needed drugs and I would tell him if I did. I finally admitted defeat and did what was needed.

The anaesthesiologist was a magician as he inserted the needle into my spinal column in between contractions that were about 2-4 minutes apart and extremely painful. Being told to sit up straight and stay as still as possible while your pelvis feels like it is going to expode and you are about to puke for several continuous minutes is definitely not the easiest thing to achieve. But we did it and I was made somewhat comfortable.

Unfortunately dilation did not progress, in fact Calen seemed to be sneaking his way back up instead of down and his heart rate was showing signs of distress after each contraction, it was dropping as normal but not recovering fast enough. They brought in the on call Doctor and she spoke with us indicating that things were not looking super hopeful that I would deliver vaginally, but we wanted to try a little longer. She happily left to wait and see. Immediately after this I had further contractions and heartrate non-recovery from Calen that incurred too much stress for me. I decided a C-section would be best, as recommended by the Dr, as I could not cope with the stress of knowing if I kept waiting I might end up in an emergency C-section and Calen was already not doing super well heart rate wise. Induction had begun around 11pm 9/13/2010, I was prepped and wheeled in to the operating theatre at around 10pm on 9/14/2010. Calen arrived less than 45 minutes later after several elephant like pushes on my chest and a set of nimble hands yanking him from his comfortable shelter that had been home for the past 9 & 1/2 months. He came out kicking and screaming with good apgar scores and into his anxious Dad's arms. I got a brief look before he was wisked away for tests and care while they sewed up my pelvis. I dont remember a whole lot except that Dr Kahn told me I had nice abs as she was sewing things up and I was dreading the 6 weeks of minimal activity they told me was in the cards to recover from a C-section. This was a brutal shot to my heart as I had anticipated riding my bike and resuming normal activity within a couple of weeks after my dream labor with no drugs and a natural delivery (apart from the initial induction drug they would have to give me), "NOT", but it is what it is and I accepted that it was all worth it for a healthy baby.

Calen having his hearing test

Calen showing off Mum's great sponsor Powerbar

Acceptance is a state of mind...
and something I am learning to cope with as "The New Normal" life moves along. What is "The New Normal"? Well let me begin by revealing the secrets that all women who have had a baby or babies seem to think should be maintained as secrets until you Deliver.
1. In 6 weeks you can resume normal activity - False. I would say more like 6 months and for some this could actually be never. Thinking I went into the delivery process pretty fit for a pregnant lady the recovery has been long, slow and pretty depressing at times.
2. You will be tougher and faster "NOT", it sure does not seem like it and some days I feel like toughness departed with the placenta they disposed of and told me was ugly.
3. Breastfeeding is a joyous and bonding experience - hmm... I would have to say it has been ardous, difficult and for me one of the hardest things I have ever had to endure, but worth it for the health of our youngster. For those of you that love it and find it a bonding experience I envy you as the joy for me has been an empty basket.

We had great help and company with visits from both My parents from Australia and Stephen's Mum and step Dad from Michigan. We had lots of help and babysitting and were able to sneak in a few late fall mountain bike rides together. Something that comes too little too often still at this point in time.

Calen with the GrandDad's

After the first few months of sleep deprivation and stress with Calen not gaining weight despite valiant attempts at breasfeeding, followed by pumping and feeding him whatever was left we had to introduce formula to suppliment my breastmilk. In a 2 week period while we went nordic skiing in West Yellowstone over Thanksgiving he finally gained a pound. Things were looking up. My reticence to feed Calen formula came from reading that Children of type 1 parents are more likely to acquire Type 1 diabetes when fed with formula so I wanted to avoid this for as long as possible. This however was simply not possible and as time has passed I have accepted and fed him whatever was needed to help him grow and reach more than the 1 percentile mark for his age. We are now well beyond that and he is happy, healthy and almost 16 pounds. I have a love-hate bond with my breastpump, an experience I am so thankful I will not be repeating. It is and will be for a few more months my sidekick.

Calen's first Christmas

Sporting our handmade Frog hat

Calen has had many adventures in his first 7 months, a trip to West Yellowstone to nordic ski and be pulled in the Ski Chariot. This involved some sub-zero temperatures so a few days indoors and some time in the Ski Bivy. A few skiining trips up to the gondola, swimming in the pool at Stephen's work and most recently in an outdoor pool in Tuscon AZ. Many trips in the jogger around Eagle, Eagle-Vail and Fruita. And soon to be attempted a trip behind the bicycle in the Cycling Chariot. He thoroughly enjoys it and gets lots of good nap time.

Calen in the Chariot Baby Bivy

Out for a Ski Adventure

Calen's first trip on the Gondola.

Calen testing the Jogger without the sling, he is now big enough to sit up in it.

Calen enjoying the pool

Solids...
Now we have moved on to some solid food, just practicing right now. Calen has taken a great liking to feeding himself and making loud grunting noises as the spoon approaches his face, sometimes reaching the mouth but more often than not reaching other parts of his face. It is a most entertaining time for us, a lot of cleanup but worth it.

Calen the Green Bean Goblin

Play time is the best too, as long as it involves some jumping, things to grab and noises. Jumping is Calen's most favourite thing to do. Here is a link to our latest toy which provides hours of entertainment and jumping.

Calen enjoying his saucer

We enjoyed a brief trip to Tuscon AZ at the beginning of April to enjoy some warm weather and sunshine. I got to join TeamType 1 elite guys for some great riding. We Enjoyed a climb up the infamous Mt Lemmon and several other super nice routes. Stephen was the babysitter and enjoyed a few rides too, including a climb up Mt Lemmon with the setting sun. We had some pool time with Calen and super nice warm days.

I am so grateful for the great support I have received from Team Type 1 www.teamtype1.com as I continue the Diabetes Journey and hopefully a return to athleticism.

Thanks also to Powerbar www.powerbar.com for their continued support in helping me stay fueled as a Mum and returning athlete.

I am so thankful for Calen's wonderful Dad and all the things he has given up to help me be able to get some fitness back. Hopefully I can return to some mountain bike racing this summer, only time will tell.

I return to the phrase from my friend Linda Guerrette all the time as this journey continues.
Life is a Journey, not a destination...
The journey has good days and bad ones.
Sometimes the journey is overwhelming,
sometimes it brings us joy and laughter.
It is definitely a journey I feel very unprepared for most of the time.
Some days I wish time would move so much faster and other days I wish time could stand still for a little longer.

Until the next installment, happy spring :)

Wilson Cup

2011-02-27T10:38:00.000-08:00

Vail Nordic Club
Presents the 28th Annual
WILSON CUP
Saturday, March 12, 2011
4:30 p.m.

Event: 20km Freestyle (10km Beginner +Jr.)

Location: Vail Nordic Center

Cost: $20, $10 VNSC members, junior or beginner
Day of race registration only
Categories: Men’s and Women’s Junior, Beginner, Sport, Expert, Master 40+, 60+

Extras: Cash prizes in Expert and Masters, Post Race Supper
Brought to you by: Vail Nordic Ski Club, Vail Nordic Center, Vail Recreation District, Pedal Power Bike Shop, Powerbar
Additional family members can enjoy supper for an additional $15

Questions?
Call Dawes Wilson 476-1914,
Or e-mail: daweswilson@hotmail.com

Triple R - A to V Skimo Race

2011-02-03T07:43:00.000-08:00

Go big and go home! (If you live in Vail.) Saturday, Feb. 5 there will be an endurance Triple R event Arrowhead to Lionshead ski race

8 a.m. start at the base of the Arrowhead lift. Free parking approx. 1 min. from the base of the lift, just ask for directions at the security gate as you enter ArrowHead.
Four ascents and descents, Approx. elevation gain, 6,500 to 7,500ft. Roughly sub 4 hours for the faster times. Arrowhead to Vail. The route will ascend Arrowhead skiers choice and continue to the top of the Larkspur lift at Beaver Creek. Skiers must go around the unload station on the uphill side and descend skiers choice to Redtail camp and ascend to Spruce Saddle, again skiers must go around Spruce Saddle on the up mountain side. Descend Rose Bowl, exit backcountry gate at bottom of Rose Bowl, descend following orange and silver stripe flagging to start of ascent to line shack (old Cabin on the ridge in the clearing, note; we may have someone there with a fire and some drinks) on Meadow Mt., descend skiers choice to bottom of Meadow Mt. (there is a groomed road down from the Line Shack), Cross Highway 24 and Eagle River at bridge just south of Meadow Mt. base, walk or ski along unpaved road south to South Game Creek trail, ascend to major intersection of two drainages, follow skin track uphill left (North?), major ski route comes down from right fork. Ascend to picnic tables on Eagles Nest Ridge, descend Racer Simba (if you are on lightweight gear, take the catwalk around Racer Simba on skiers left) and continue descending skiers choice to Lionshead base and finish.
Required gear:map or local knowledge, cell phone, food, water and appropriate extra clothing. Recommended gear: AT race? or lighter gear and consummate skill.
There are two major bail out points with bus service. Base of Beaver Creek and the base of Meadow Mt. If you are unsure about taking this on, ski with a friend.
Logistics: If you want to leave a car in Lionshead and get a ride to the start email Mike Kloser at MKloser@vailresorts.com The plan for this is meet at the Red Sandstone Park (small parking lot just west of the Pedestrian bridge that goes over I-70) on the North Frontage Rd. at 7am, and carpool to Arrow Head.

Pending Arrival....

2010-08-30T20:25:00.000-07:00

T-minus 13 days and counting, although by the time I post this it will most likely be a lot closer than this....

In fact now it is T-minus 9 days and counting...

The time for anxiety and reflection has reached new heights and the thought of the next phase of our lives and what it will hold is extremely daunting but exciting all at the same time. I am not afraid, just petrified, and am truly anxious about what the coming years will hold. As with many folks starting a family (or so I have been told) I continually ask myself - Can I truly be the great parent that everyone dreams they will be?

What does it take to be a great parent but also maintain your own personality and sanity?

The fear of loosing my identity as a cyclist comes to mind, but Stephen continues to assure me we will still live our active lives just with a munchkin in tow. I know my husband will be the best Dad in the world, no offense you all you other Dad's out there, but of course I know he will be the best one for our son. I on the other hand continue to question my personal selfishness and ability to sacrifice the unlimited time I have always had for myself and give it to someone else. Those that have been through this process seem to think that a change will occur and these things will simply adjust and I will be able to continue being active and be a good Mum...I am hoping this will be the case.

For those that have questioned my sanity in continuing to ride my bicycle while 36 weeks pregnant, that is my sanity and my happy place. I know our child will need a happy place, for me through this struggle with identity and diabetes, my bicycle has been this place. I am comfortable, reflective and it settles anxiety like no other drug on the planet. If I was a hiker I would have continued hiking, so as a cyclist I have continued cycling. As one of my wonderful friends Sari has said, "Pregnancy is not a disease...". I have embraced this advise and used my athletic ability and made adjustments to accommodate what being pregnant does to you. To take my happy place away would have been the biggest mistake I could have made in terms of a (hopefully) successful pregnancy. The tests and Dr visits all seem to show signs of a healthy baby boy who is about to make his way into this world, hopefully this will be the outcome, but the underlying stress is... you dont really know until he shows up.

My personal fears of my eyes incurring further retinopathy damage have been put somewhat to rest. My third trimester eye appointment was stable and I was given 'Good Luck' wishes as I departed the office that I have visited numerous times in the past 9 months. My A1c is holding steady in the upper 6's which is not perfect but a miracle based on the fact that I started this at 8 and the pressure was on to get it into the 6's in a big hurry. Insulin resistance from week 20 until around week 34 was a huge struggle and brought many tears to the table. Without my amazing partner and soulmate I would not have made it through these tough weeks. Stephen's continued faith and confidence in my ability to bring our child into the world made all the struggles melt away, even when I did not believe I could possibly do it.

As my belly expands beyond comprehension I continue to question the sanity of those that claim this is a joyous time of life. Rest and make the most of it...NOT. Rest is simply a myth, sleep happens only in your wildest dreams and being comfortable is simply thoughts of something that existed in the past.

I have had bi-weekly stress tests since week 32 measuring "Rocky's" heartrate to make sure he is active and doing his thing. All have been normal so things are looking good as long as they stay that way for another week or so. And yes I have been riding my bike to the office with the goal that when I then have to sit still "Rocky" steps into action and does his thing and I can leave quickly. They are looking for regular heartbeat with 4-5 active sections to determine that he is moving around just like a baby should.

I have visited the Perinatologist in Denver monthly for growth scans, ultrasounds and evaluations, the Barbara Davis Center for monthly evaluations of my diabetes, A1C checks and sanity checks and the eye Dr for eye checks once each trimester. Without the support of these wonderful medical practitioners I could not have undertaken this enormous task and cannot be more thankful for having this support system available to me. The miracles of modern medicine, Continuous Glucose monitors and incredibly caring people...what more can I say but Thank you.

Hit and Run reflections...

So we are now at 8 weeks from the time I was hit and run while peacefully commuting on my bike to work, Saturday morning July 3rd. I am still nursing a badly sprained ankle although thanks to Neil Master's and his amazing physical therapy skills it is almost normal.

We still await the news from Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) who is apparently "investigating" to determine if they can match the car and its broken passenger mirror and various other parts to anything on my bicycle indicating that it was in fact that car that hit me. My bicycle has been in their possession since about July 7th, although the car has been returned to the owners. We continue to doubt the effectiveness of the CO State Patrol and question who is the victim in this case as it surely feels like I am not the victim but the one being vicitimised. They took my transportation away and have basically indicated that the investigation time is unlimited while continuing to avoid anything that might resemble polite informative communication.

I would like to thank Kalie Palmer for her great eyes in spotting the offending vehicle and calling the police. Many thanks to all the folks that have asked how I am doing and written letters to the editor in the Vail Daily supporting the reasons why people in our beautiful valley choose to ride their bicycles on the road vs bike paths in particular instances.

I hope to put this case to rest sometime in the future and put the offending driver out of the drivers seat, but things are not looking so hopeful with that currently. If anyone has an inside link to the CBI I would love to put some fireants under their butts to finish investigating, make a decision and let me get on with my life and have my bicycle back.

Until the next installment, most likely with Baby in tow and a much reduced waistline I hope ... adios.

And Remember as I am reminded so many times every week, a phrase from one of my wonderful friends Linda

"Life is a journey, not a destination" - I hope to embrace the next part of this journey with courage, strength and love for our new family addition.

Enjoy the beautiful Autumn weather and stop by and see Stephen & I up on the Bluffs on your way out for a nightride on the Boneyard in the coming weeks.

Heffalump in the making...

2010-06-23T10:08:00.000-07:00

Heffalump in the making...

So I have now reached the 6 1/2 month mark - time is flying by... NOT... as a competitive cyclist when you are not competing or training for anything, and seem to be simply getting fat, the days seem to be very long waiting for this little blessing to make his presence known.

He seems to be having a good time now though playing soccer in my belly and making me feel like a heffalump in the making - thus the title of my blog.

For those of you unfamiliar with the term Heffalump, as I found my workmates were not familiar, here is a little background.

In the fifth chapter of Winnie the Pooh, Pooh and Piglet attempt bravely to capture a heffalump in a trap. However, no heffalumps are ever caught in their trap, and indeed they never meet a heffalump in the course of the books. The sole actual appearance of heffalumps in the books come as Pooh tries to put himself to sleep: "He tried counting Heffalumps but every Heffalump that he counted was making straight for a pot of Pooh's honey ... and when the five hundred and eighty-seventh Heffalumps were licking their jaws, and saying to themselves, 'Very good honey this, I don't know when I've tasted better', Pooh could bear it no longer." We learn nothing more about the nature of the beasts in the writings.

Although this is never explicitly stated, it is generally thought that heffalumps are elephants from a child's viewpoint (the word "heffalump" being a child's attempt at pronouncing "elephant").

So hopefully the picture helps explain a little how I feel and am sure am going to feel even more like in the coming weeks. "Rocky" as we call him, because he is about the size of a small rockmelon, is about 9+ inches long and apparently will approach 17 inches in the next 3-4 weeks. Yikes - I can hardly breath now and eating anything more than a few slices of bread at a time makes me feel like my belly is going to explode, it is unfathomable understanding what this is going to be like when he is double the size in a few weeks.

So Diabetes wise what has been going on?

MyA1C at last visit was 6.3, yipee!! the best it has been since I was a teenager, although some days it surely does not feel like it could possibly be that good. At about 20 weeks "Rocky" started inflicting the apparent insulin resistance factor in a big way. Any insulin I put in seemed like it was going into an abyss. Doses have dramatically increased despite the fact that I am eating far less carbs than I have in a long time. The Doctors assure me this is normal and good to know I am like everyone else with diabetes that gets pregnant. Not great for the mental fortitude you need when battling blood sugars has always been tough, now it just got a little harder. Exercise has still continued to be my saving grace, although nowdays it seems to be difficult just to ride on the flats, climbing passes or hills is pretty much out of the repertoire. I long for the days when I can return to the summers of riding Benchmark (my favourite climb for wildflower viewing) or Resolution Road (for the ultimate punishment) as it will not be this summer.

"Rocky's" growth is right on target according to the Ultrasounds I have been having once a month. Hope is he will stay on target along with blood sugars as this hopefully will prevent him from growing too big too fast.

The many lows I had during the first trimester have definitely petered off and I have become much better at managing them when they do come, in the past a blood sugar of 34 would have seen me passed out, now I am still somewhat alert but definitely not right and have already treated it if it gets to this point. My Powerbar sponsorship has continued to be an enormous blessing helping me with fuelling while I am exercising and for those anytime lows, my ever failful Powerbar Performance Chocolate Peanut Butter flavour is always the saving grace or a couple of rasberry gel blasts definitely gets me back on track.

We have discussed options with the Doctors and it is sounding like unless "Rocky" decides to come early on his own, they will do an amnio at around 36-37 weeks and if he shows good lung development they are then most likely to induce early to help prevent placenta complications or issues that sometime arise for people with diabetes late in the pregnancy such as pre-ecalmpsia.

My strong desire is of course to have a normal delivery with no C-section but only time & "Rocky" will decide this.

In the meantime Stephen is trying to cram as many races in as possible and we hope to continue our active lives despite major changes on the way. Adios until the next update.

4 Months and Baby's got Outdoor plumbing...

2010-04-18T12:57:00.000-07:00

We have now passed the 4 month mark, had the amnio and now have to sit and wait 10 days for the results. The Doctor was very positive about everything and almost talked us out of the amnio but if you want to know that there is nothing chromosomally wrong, the amnio is the way. The alternative is to wait 10 month and hope for the best.

Our Baby now has a spine, 4 heart chambers, 5 fingers and toes on each hand and foot, 2 kidneys, a stomach and the right connections to the bladder so things are looking good. Hopefully the test results will show the same. Oh, we noticed that baby is well equiped with outdoor plumbing so that narrows our name selection down.

I called my family and let them know and this was the first response I received:
It is the first round of negotiations between Moses and God, and before long Moses can't stand it. He bursts out,'Am I hearing you right, God? The Arabs get all the oil and we get to cut the ends off our what?' quoted from Peter Fitzsimons' book.
Hopefully the new White will have the same sense of humor as his Grandpa.

My A1C was 6.7. That is as low as it has been since my teenage years so things are looking a lot better for the peanut growing inside. Now I just have to maintain and try to get the A1C down a little lower. The hypo events have decreased. I have one about every 2 weeks, but still pretty scary. I have not only inflicted them upon my husband but my friend Karen who went for a mountain bike ride with me last week. About 45 minutes into the ride, I continually tried to inform her that I was perfectly fine, even though I could not stay straight on my bike. Finally I realised I did not really know where I was and she thoughtfully guided me down the road back to our new home. Thank goodness for riding with a buddy...and not forgetting to tell them to force feed you if you start acting strange.

After the amnio the recommendation is for 72 hours of non strenuous activity. Otherwise, the risks of miscarriage are very high. I was at the end of my patience rope but I still adhered to the recommendation. I managed to unpack the house and drive my husband crazy with depression, jealousy and many tears, hopefully this can cease and I can resume normal activity. I am getting slow but I definitely still need the exercise adrenalin high I get every day. I know I will reach a point when riding might not be comfortable so I am definitely milking every day I get right now until that time comes.

We have now moved into our new house - Or should I say the garage of our new house. I successfully unpacked lots of things to then find that my husband thought they should live in a different places. In all circumstances he was right and things have been moved a second time, I guess the baby has already stunted my brain cell activity who knows what it will be like in another few months.

We have successfully managed to make some of the biggest life changes you can make all in a few short months - New house, baby on the way, buying a new washer and dryer, about to purchase a lawnmower and a new king sized bed that I will need a forklift to get up into in a few short months, all we need is to add a new job into the mix (not planning on it) and it would be the ultimate change recipe. Any of you thinking you havevtaken on a lot of life challenges lately we probably have you beat. I think we might be better described as "Late Bloomers".

That is about it for now except that I cannot even begin to describe what an amazing Husband I have! I would not have made it this far without him, nor will I make it to the end without his incredible support, calming nature and unquestionable commitment to our life together. Thanks Honey and adios until the next post...

Ultra athleticism on sabbatical...

2010-03-05T08:40:00.000-08:00

Ultra-athlete, Diabetic, Pregnant, and 39...feeling like the odds are stacked right now

So I thought I might share some insight on what my past 13 weeks has been like now that the cat is kind of out of the bag. It has been a roller coaster ride like no other I have ever experienced. Moments of sheer elation that we might be able to have a kid, but more extended periods of extreme stress and anxiety living with the notion that if I screw up this tiny little peanut growing inside me will pay the price - nothing like having the weight of the world on your shoulders...

I have said for the past 5-6 years I wanted to have a child but needed to get my A1C down so I would not have a repeat of any eye damage like I suffered in 2003-2004, and of course so I could have a healthy baby. If I got my eyes in a stable state and my A1C in the target zone of 6.5 then it would be somewhat less risky. Needless to say I never reached the ideal 6.5 and although I kept trying things did not seem to be working in my favour, at least not at the pace they should have been. I was working at my own pace while fitting in the Ultra-Endurance lifestyle, managing things to suit my exercise schedule and not much else. Then the news came, we were both in denial for several days but this was real, now getting my A1C down was not going to be on my own time, it had to be NOW! and in a big hurry.

I changed my mind on whether I should go through with this every 10 minutes for about 2 weeks, until I had visited the Barbara Davis Center and got some more educated information on whether this would be a good or bad choice. As always my Doctors and the nurses at BDC were incredibly supportive and encouraging and more or less said if you want this we can make it happen, now is as good as any time, you are 39...
In fact I am at a point in life where the possible implications of having a baby at an advanced age are about equal with the the implications of having a baby when you are a diabetic. So of course we decided to put them both together and make life super challenging - mature age and almost 30 years with Diabetes what more could I ask for!

For starters I had to immediately stop taking Symlin the 'blessing' drug that has helped me manage post meal blood sugar spikes. Blood sugars now are back to spiking immediately after meals as the insulin does not seem to work for about 1-2 hours after I have injected, especially in the mornings.

Second I gave up Caffeine - after a week of trecherous headaches and feeling pretty crappy I am not just in a permanent "Grumpy" state as Stephen puts it. I pretty much have lived the past 10-15 years fueled by caffeine so this is a big change for me and one that I dont regret but the transition has been rough to say the least.
And third but not least important Diet soda - I have not given it up but I have cut back and definitely have not been consuming any of my favourite Diet Mountain Dew when energy is going south. So it has been a big adjustment, probably for the better but probably one I will not stick with once this is all done.

Everyone says the sacrifices are worth it so I am banking on that being the case.

So am I excited... well deep down yes but on the surface there is so much stress and anxiety that it is hard for me to express excitement at this early stage. There are so many risks you ask yourself many times a day - is this the right thing? should we
go through with it? And after 5 hypos requiring assistance from Stephen in the past 6weeks each time the questions re-arise. We hope all will go well and maybe things will get easier as I learn the ropes but I am not counting on it as I know this process is not easy for the non-diabetic. I hope I can be smart, and tough - we know for sure the kid is going to be tough since it has already made it this far.

WEEK 7
At 7 weeks we had an ultrasound - I cannot say much else except that it was like a lima bean with this fast pounding heartbeat. It made us melt to think there is something that little inside with a beating heart already. I was poked and proded and had copious amounts of blood drawn for all the tests that can be done at that early stage to get some baseline results. Lucky me, they also found I had low thyroid T4 levels and an enlarged thyroid so off for an ultrasound of my Thyroid gland and they started me on some thyroid medication - indicating it might just be for while I am pregnant but the likelyhood of diabetics also suffering from thyroid disorders could mean it might be medication I will be taking for life. Either way life just got a little more complicated, one more tablet to add to the injection regimen.

So what have I been doing - testing my blood sugar obcessively; exercising as much as my body can handle - and some (the and some days unfortunately have caused 4 night time hypos usually the night after I have overdone it); using the Navigator CGM as much as possible to see what my patterns are and trying to manage everything to get my A1C down.

The basic synopsis of my blood sugar patterns is, I have insulin resistance, especially in the morning. Exercise is the only thing that seems to make the insulin work (but even in the morning insulin does not work). I have to overbolus with shortacting insulin at meals to keep my bloodsugars in the normal zone, to then exercise and hit rock bottom each time I go out. Bloodsugars rise when I ride my trainer in the mornings because this preganacy - dawn phenomenon thing that seems to last from about 6am - 10:30am. Then things seem to start working a little better, I can run before lunch and get my blood sugar nice and low, then nordic ski or do some activity after work and watch it plummet so low that on occasion I have reached the low point so quickly that I dont know where I am (i.e. my ski up Vail mountain one evening, which was my usual Tuesday night expedition). Fortunately on that particular night Stephen decided he would also skate ski up, I was classic skiing and had left before him. He found me at the dragon's breath mine, disoriented, freezing cold and no idea where I was. Needless to say I have now been banned from going out at night alone anywhere except the nordic center. Blood sugars are down but safety risks for me when exercising have been extremely elevated.

WEEK 10
At 10 weeks we visited the Perinatologist, the Retinal specialist for a check of my eyes and another visit to the Barbara Davis Center.

Perniatologist was an awesome guy, gave us tonnes of extremely valuable information, but laid down the negatives in one nice neat pile - I would compare the pile to that of an elephant.

Phew... and people still want to proceed after hearing all that...

Well yes when you see that little thing squirming in my uterus, its arms and legs now waving around, all the negatives get put aside. Oh and by the way it still had a heartbeat. That was a relief after a few days of my boobs not hurting, when they had hurt non stop for about 9 weeks, I freaked out that something had gone wrong. Not to mention the 12 hour AT race I did with Wendy on the weekend, I did not push hard but it was a long effort with a peanut growing inside, I had to be worried. Yes I am now banned from any further racing too...

A1C went from 8.0 to 7.3 in 4 weeks the biggest drop I have had since visiting the Barbara Davis Center for the past 12 years, so that was good news, but still a long way to go. The literature says ideally you want your A1C to be between 5.0-6.0 during pregancy YIKES! I am not even close and dont know if I will ever get close to that but the tried and true TeamType1 challenge of "Strive for 6.5" definitely seems like it might be possible now. That is my goal. If I can get to 6.5 then I will re-evaluate the target.

My eyes are stable, fingers crossed I can keep it that way and have to have checks each trimester to re-evaluate things. This was yet another check mark in the book of positives and whether to proceed so things are looking up. Now if only the Gods could make my blood sugars right things might be almost good...but that would be too easy.

INSULIN RESISTANCE
So what does it mean to be insulin resistant. Here is a good example for you. One morning since blood sugars simply did not seem to be coming down when I had insulin and breakfast I decided to try and see how long it would take for it to come down with my breakfast bolus but no breakfast.

Hmmm.. well I had the insulin expecting in about 30 minutes to see it start dropping so I could then eat. It was also an experiment to see how long should I really wait after injecting before eating. Well 2+ hours passed blood sugar only dropped from 170 to 140. So I guess my breakfast bolus is not really for breakfast it is just an extra bolus I need to cover something other than food. Disconcerting yes, what can I do about it - NOTHING (except of course treat with the appropriate amount of insulin). Results and Conclusion - double the breakfast dose as something is wreaking havoc on my body and it is not breakfast.

Week 12

So I have just passed the week 12 mark waiting for the first trimester screening to make sure nothing is abnormal. Once I have this screening we can then determine if I should go for the somewhat risky CVS test to guarantee that the child may or may not have Downs Syndrome or a variety of other issues, or if the screening comes back with fairly normal results then I will wait and have an amniosyntesis at 15 weeks. Oh the joys of waiting for good or bad news, it is enough to cause a heart attack at this point, or at the least days of self induced depression wondering what the outcome will be.

Like clockwork - as the folks at the BDC had predicted blood sugars tend to go low from around weeks 10-13 - I have had perfect control for almost a week now, starting to wonder if I am dreaming until last night when I had my 5th hypo since beginning this journey. Thank goodness for my husband and his amazing ability to stay calm conditions of utmost adversity. I woke in a semi-comatosed state as he tried to make me eat a gu, which has definitely not ever been a voluntary food choice for me. Even with what feels like less than half my brain working I still know that I hate gu and it is like pulling teeth for him to get me to swallow the stuff. Apparently diguised on toast still does not work :)

Things seem to be getting risker by the day, Stephen seems to run through states of not knowing if he really wants me to go through with this. Having to watch me in these most unglamorous states I am sure is super worriesome and not to be taken lightly however, at this time I am committed provided the tests come through ok. The hypos need to stop, however they are inevitable when trying to get your A1C down in a hurry these are bumps in the road that I hope will soon pass.

I have tried my hardest not to back off and stay as active as always. Some days it is easy, other days I feel like a beached whale plugging along thinking - maybe it would be easier to become a couch potatoe, but that is not in my nature. I am committed to ride my bike as long as possible and still be an athlete at least until my belly is too big to balance on the bike, then I guess I will resort to swimming and walking. Oh I am already yearning for the summer days of long rides that I know I am going to miss but it is just a short snippet in my life so I am going to learn to cope... even if it does make me grumpy.

Week 13

Well I am screened and waiting for blood test results but the neck skin measurement was positive so fingers crossed all will be good. At his time the Doctor encouraged me to just wait for an amnio at 15weeks, he seemed confident that thing were looking good so I will go with that.

So until the next post hopefully I have given everyone lots of gossip and good humor.

Rando Renegade Rally Classic

2010-03-03T04:27:00.000-08:00

The fourth running of the Triple R Classic course will be this Tuesday, March 9 at 5 p.m. Start: Bottom of Vista Bahn A Course: Skiers choice ascend to bottom of Chair 4, Chair 4 Liftline to in run of Whoopee Jump, Boot pack to top of Chair 4 cliffs, ascend to PHQ Vail Mt. summit, Descend Forever to bottom of Chair 5, touch maze,
ascend Forever to PHQ, Descend Swingsville ridge to Prima Cornice top gate, follow markings skiers right to narrow bony chute, descend remainder of Prima Cornice to Chair 11. Descend North Face Catwalk and Lower Riva to Vista Bahn
B Course: Same ascent to PHQ, descend Riva

Required gear: Helmet (Bike OK), powerful headlamp w/sufficient batteries, SAFETY STRAPS or ski brakes!, Attachment system or pack for the boot pack, cell phone Smart things to bring: Extra clothes, energy drink, extra headlamp, goggles
Post race get together at Vendetta's

Rando Renegade Rally Tues. Night Crit

2010-01-21T18:38:00.000-08:00

It is happening again. The first of five planned RRR events is Tues. Jan. 26 at 5:30 p.m. The first event is perfect for the low snow conditions that prevail so far this year. Format will be a one hour, as many laps as you can do crit format. The start will be at the bottom of the Vista Bahn at Vail Mt.. The skin track will Z up through the woods climbers right of Pepi's face, crossing two catwalks to gain the catwalk that comes over from Bear Tree. Rip and descend International to base. Last face is icy but no rocks. Repeat. Last year, fast people did six laps. Start a lap before one hour you get to finish it. Required equipment:Helmet, straps or brakes for skis, bright headlamp, event must be done on one pair of skis, extra skins OK. This RRR is good for skiers of all levels and Summit County folks. No knowledge of local terrain required, no one left up high in the dark.

Vail Nordic Team 28th Annual Ski Swap

2009-10-28T09:00:00.001-07:00

We will sell your Nordic, Snowshoe, Telemark, AT & Backcountry Gear

Where: Vail Nordic Center (Vail Golf Course Clubhouse basement)
When: Saturday, November 21st 9:00-4:00

Equipment Check In:

Where: Vail Nordic Center Basement
When: 4 - 8 p.m. Friday, November 20^th
Or by arrangement - call Dawes Wilson 970-476-1914 or Stephen White 970-376-1033.

An 10% Commission of the price of the sold gear goes to the Nordic Programs of Ski Club Vail and Vail Nordic Club
Entry into the Swap is FREE

No Alpine Downhill gear please!

Presented by:
The Vail Nordic Center,
Ski Club Vail and Vail Nordic Ski Team

24 hr National Mountain Bike Championships

2009-10-16T20:34:00.000-07:00

Last weekend Kerry and I drove about 5 hours to the west to compete in The 24hrs of Moab mountain bike race just outside of Moab, Ut. We have both competed in 24hrs of Moab numerous times, but this year it is was selected as USA Cycling's National 24 hr championships. Kerry competed in the womens solo division, I organized a 4 person team consisting of Mark Roebke, Mike Gibbs and Ed Oliver. We signed up for the Vet 35+ division.

We had the power and consistency to take the national title. Kerry finished a very strong 4th.

Kerry finishing up 25 hrs of racing. Yes it is a 24 hour race, but finish a lap before noon, you have the option of going out on another lap and Kerry would never pass up an oportunity to ride her mountain bike.

One of the many sand traps on course. The course consisted of a 15 mile loop. The 1st half is technical and sandy. The 2nd half is more wide open and not nearly as sandy as years past.

A dusty Le Monds style start. Riders run about a 1/4 mile before hopping on their bikes. This spreads the field out before hitting the technical sections.

A dust mask is a good call.

Late afternoon, top of the 1st climb. The La Sal mountains are in the background.

Everyone camps at the venue during the 24 hr race. This adds a lot of flavor to the race and I believe it is why 24 hr mountain bike racince is so popular especially among people who would otherwise never show up for a mountain bike race.

Kerry charging down the 1st sandy descent early in the race.

My team mates before the start of the race. Ed, Mike and Mark. We all rode consistent and strong especially during the night.

The result of solid strong error free riding, top step of the podium.
2009 24hr National Champions.

Kerry finished a very impressive 4th overall in an extremely competive women's pro solo division.

Chaos during the Le Monds style start. We were all glad Ed was off the front of this mess.

Nose Dive. Years past I used to ride this section. Now, I do not even consider it.

Sunset

2009 24 hour National Champions

This is Ed's 2nd national championship in 2 weeks. Ed also won an Xterra Triathlon National Championship in Ogden Ut.

24 hours of Moab legend, never looks to be suffering, Mike Gibbs.

24 hr races require a bright set of lights. Riders making their way down the final descent to the finish.

Mark even with a very bad cold was killing it every lap. Very impressive!

Weeks 3 & 4 - Slovenia - Austria - Czech Republic - Austria - Germany

2009-09-07T06:41:00.000-07:00

Here is our route in case you did not read the earlier blogs this shows our entire 4 week route. This section begins after the large toop on the map where we took a turn southward toward Slovenia

http://www.gpsies.com/map.do?fileId=hyrqsmgbzpayeiza

Day 15 Rest Day Lienz - Amlach (25km)

Yes our rest day we still managed to ride just far enough to find a good cheap campground to do some laundry at - we washed and dried everything for 1.50 Euro - bargain. Found a nice guest house where they spoke no English and had more stuffed animals on the walls than anything we have ever seen before.

Day 16 Amlach - Kranjska Gora

This day started with a nice gentle climb 5-6% right out the front door. Then down into Kotschach. and onto another spectacular Austrian bike path. As Stephen says "catwalks to the next set of mountain passes for us to climb"

The next pass was not quite so easy - we climbed to 1530 meters to find that Nassfeldpass was closed on the other side. Being on Bicycles does have its advantages as we were able to get through the closure area and proceed down the other side.

There were several motorbikes who had come from the same side as us who were also uninformed of the closure. They were allowed to pass through the closure area also and proceed down. This was a relief since we had hoped to reach Kranjska Gora that day and a pass closure would definitely have put a dent in our travels.

We passed through the town of Tarvisio and onto some very nice bike path through the hilly woods that characterised Slovenia (despite the fact that we were still in Italy) and finally across the boarder.

Our dream cabin just next to the boarder of Slovenia

The Austrian bike path system is simply awesome

Yet another castle ruin along the way

Day 17 Kransjka Gora - Vrsiic Pass - Passo de Predil - Tarvisio - Kransjka Gora

The View of Triglav National Park from the town of Kranjska Gora

Entering Triglav National park and the climb up to Vrsiic Pass

We climbed Vrsiic Pass through the Triglav National park with cobbled switchbacks up to a glorious summit. The park is named after the mountain Triglav (three heads), the symbol of Slovenia. The summit of Vrsiic was not inhabited by quite as many motor cycles as the passes we had visited in Austria and Italy, it had a spectacular view of the craggy Dolomites and a guy riding around at the top on his bicycle collecting fees from the motorbikes and cars as they stopped at the top to view the scenery. If you did not stop you were lucky and did not have to pay the National Park fee.

The cobbled switchbacks up to the top of Vrsiic Pass

There were goats hanging out at the top licking the walls of rock underpasses for salt.

Vrsiic Pass
The pass plummeted downvalley and followed the Soca River for several miles. The Soca River is world renouned for canoeing and kayak trips - the upper part of the valley, where the Soca is still untamed by dams, has wild, milky blue - green waters. We admired the beautiful scenery as we followed the river downstream.

The Milky Blue Soca River

This was the view from the small town Log Pod Mangartom (definitely a view that would be awesome to wake up to every day), just before we climbed to Passo de Predil and past a fort from the Napoleonic era.

We then headed back up Passo del Predil into Italy. The climb was flavored with Italian steepness, steep rocky walls and then an old abandoned passport checkpoint at the top that in its time must have been a bustling boarder checkpoint.

The Deserted Boarder Checkpoint at Passo del Predil

Instead it is now deserted - we sat an ate cookies in the shade of the checkpoint station and then headed down to Lago de Predil for our last cup of Italian coffee before we would head back to Slovenia and then Austria, Czech Republic and Germany. We savored the incredible view and the distinct aromas of Italian prepared coffee that only they know how to prepare.

Coffee at Lago del Predil - the final taste of Italian Coffee

Day 18 Kranjska Gora - Dravograd

We were sorry to leave Kranjska Gora - a beautifel place with a spectacular view of the Dolomites in the Triglav National park right outside the door and some of the nicest sunny days we had the entire trip.

Solvenia has beautiful rolling hills, deeply forested and friendly people, our stay was short but definitely left us with nostalgia to return. Probably next time with better planned accommodation stops.

This was the first of two 100 mile days. We had a hard time finding accommodations once we decided it was time to stop. After checking in at the Tourist office in Dravograd we found that once you leave the tourist areas, accommodations are minimal. We paid 78 Euro for what would be classified as a two star hotel at best in the US - it was considered a 3 star hotel in Slovenia. The people were all super nice and helpful and we were thankful for a place to sleep and safely store our bikes. Tourism is expanding in this beautiful country but definitely not a primary industry yet.

Day 19 Dravograd - Maribor - Graz/Freisach

Our second 100 mile day.

From Dravograd we followed the Drava River thorugh Maribor the city center was somewhat beside the River and a very nice facade to follow however, on the city outskirts it showed signs of depression and hard times.

One of the more interesting sights amongst the vineyards and fruit trees was a little remote control car action we came across just before crossing the border back into Austria. And some interesting bike route signage!

This was our view as we ate lunch and crossed back into Austria.

We continued North along the Mur River Radweg through Graz. Riding through the city center on a Sunday afternoon and it was absolutely hopping. Somewhat of a hippy 'Boulder' city feel with thousands of people out enjoying the sunshine, bike paths and parks. If more people did this in America we would probably reduce the escalating obesity and Type 2 diabetes epidemics.

We had hoped to find a place to stay on the North side of Graz but again pickings were slim. Still riding at 7:15pm we were getting stressed. After stopping at a B&B in Fresiach which was full, they referred us to another guesthouse in town which was partially closed. We had a very comfortable room and super awesome breakfast and were ready to forge on.

Day 20 Freisach - Mariazell

On this day we passed through Gossing and saw a spectacular iron water fountain - a guy riding his bike powered by pee power. And some other super bike route ornamentation.

We followed a route through Seeberg pass where Stephen promised me we were not climbing more than 800 feet, nedless to say at 1100 feet we were still climbing.

The town of Mariazell has a spectacular Basilica. This Basilica has seen visits from two Popes in 1983 and 2007; it sees many traditionally organized pilgrimages and pilgrims on their own, walking barfooted in the sourrounding hills, submitting their requests or just giving thanks—all of this makes Mariazell the epitome of what pilgrimage is in Austria. The Basilica of Mariazell has two focal points: the sacral shrine and the artistic high altar designed by Fischer von Erlach. The most significant part of the Basilica, outshining everything else, is the late-Romanesque Miraculous Statue of the Madonna, carrying the Holy Child on her right arm. We did not see these sights as it was closed by the time we arrived, the eterior of this Building is impressive and it indicates the presence of volumes of people. We had the pleasure of experiencing it in the sublime quiet of the evening with an almost empty town plaza.

Mariazell Basilica Views of the Valley from Mariazell

Mariazell sunset

Day 21 Mariazell - Ybbs to the Donau River (Danube) to Grein.

We left the pretty town of Mariazell and headed back to the Donauradweg - one of the most famous bike routes in Europe. Many people journey through one or all of the four segments of this route

Donaueschingen-Passau (559 km)
Passau-Vienna (340 km)
Vienna-Budapest (306 km)
Budapest-Black Sea (1670 km)

We rode only a small segment of this route however the cyclists on this path were numerous and it was great flat riding to help us recover from the numerous passes we had climbed in the prior weeks.

Crossing the Donau by ferry to Grein where we found an unusual guesthouse.

We spent the night with Peacock's screeching all night, on and off rainfall and awakening to the Roosters crowing at an unreasonable hour. Breakfast on the other hand was long after the rooster had crowed and we got a later than desired start to another day of threatening skies.

Day 22 Grein - Linz - Czech republic (Vyssi Brod) - Cesky Krumlov

We had originally planned on travelling into the Czech Republic and onto Prague but somewhere along the way in our travels we determined that possibly Prague was not the ideal location for us to finish and get back to Jodie and Berten's place in Duisburg. However we were determined to at least experience a taste of the Czech Republic. Upon crossing the again deserted boarder, we rode through Vyssi Brod which was inhabited by many immigrants trying to sell various goods at roadside stalls, it was a little disconcerting and we were concerned that it was not the most ideal town to spend the evening. We visited the grocery store to find that the Currency was indeed not the Euro and currency conversion was a little challenging. Once we determined the exchange rate we realised food was definitely a little cheaper in this part of the world, except we were not sure what we were eating since the labels were definitely a challenge to decypher.

The Czech's definitely indulge in Pork products and many tinned vegetable/oil based items, not quite as many fresh vegetable products were available as in Austria and Italy.

We arrived in Cesky Krumlov after 7pm, we passed hundreds of canoe trip campers along the route wondering if we were going to find a place to stay. Fortunately our first stop we found the best accommodations of our entired trip. A guest house with attached kitchen. Our breakfast was served while we were still in bed, a fridge stocked with Czech beer and drinks for about $1.00 each, an internet connection and a super nice host. We would have loved to have stayed longer but now the days were limited and we needed to make it to our destination in Bad Weisee.

Cesky Krumlov is a beautiful cultural town, alive with activities ranging from Canoe trips to outdoor opera performances. Definitely a place to be visited.

Day 23 Cesky Krumlov - Horny Plana - Nova Pec - Ulrichsberg

The route from Nova Pec to Ulrichsberg was some of the most scenic and awesome cycling road we could have asked for. Deserted roads, in the woods, beautiful wildflowers and no rain. We topped out and crossed the boarder from Czech Republic back into Austria via Scharding a small Nordic ski town that had a Nordic Fitness park and ropes course setup right along the side of the road. We got to watch a few people testing their skills in the ropes course.

Early in the day we managed to find ourselves in a military area for the Czech Army. The roads were deserted and super riding however we did get passed by several army vehicles the last on came to a virtual crawl as it passed as. Then as we approached the next town - where it seemed the headquarters were located we stopped to review our map. A gentleman came out and informed us which way we needed to go, there were not going to be any road choices at this intersection.

Views of some of the old communist era buildings plain and grey that served the working era purposes. Many of the buildings are still of course being used. The more modern buildings, built since this time have a little more color and character to them allowing the people to input some of their personal flair into their home.

Day 24 Ulrichsberg back to the Donau - Passau - Mullheim

This day saw rain for almost the entire day. We had about 30km of relief as we rode along the Donau through the beautiful town of Passau that sits on the confluence of three rivers - the Danube is joined in Passau by the Inn from the South, and the Ilz coming out of the Bavarian Forest to the North. From 1892 until 1894 Adolf Hitler and his family lived in Passau. The city archives mention Hitler being in Passau on 4 different occasions in the 1920s for speeches.
During World War II the town housed three sub-camps of the infamous Mauthausen-Gusen concentration camp: Passau I (Oberilzmühle), Passau II (Waldwerke Passau-Ilzstadt) and Passau III (Jandelsbrunn). It was the site of a post World War II American sector displaced persons camp.

We were finally dry, after passing through Passau and changing routes from the Donauradweg to the Innradwegthe Inn river. Then, just as we thought we were safe and could continue a few more Kilomters the rain hit in bucketfulls and the bike path turned to dirt. We were a mess arriving in Mullheim a small town. We desperately saught a warm dry place, paid a small fortune for a room in a newly remodelled Guesthouse. They were so kind it was worth every penny. They washed our clothes, shoes and even our bikes for us while we left dirty muddy tracks everywhere.

The Donauradweg continues from Passau to Vienna (Part II-This is the most popular section) it continues for 340 kilometers to Vienna. On this section there are paved paths for all but 100 meters on either the north or south banks with bridges, ferries and some dams linking the two banks. The trail is typically traveled from west to east as it is down-hill and the winds are typically from west. All along the way there are delightful small towns, placid scenery, castles on the hills, monasteries, and excursions into woods and farm country, something we may have to return to on a future adventure.

The beautiful city of Passau

Day 25 Mullheim - Burghausen am Linn - Salzburg - Wals

From Mullheim we continued down the Linn river, riding in Austria but looking across the river into Germany. We stopped for lunch at a park that overlooked the Burghausen Castle.

The skies looked as though they would open up most of the day and finally did as we were grocery shopping (at the last possible minute as usual) in Salzburg. We sat out the rain and continued a few miles out of Salzburg to Wals. Salzburg has magnificent cultural heritage all along the river, which was getting close to flooding. Stephen snapped pictures as we tried to make our way out of the city.

Day 26 Walz - Steinpass - Wall - Bayrischzell - Bad Weisee

The weather continued to look pretty ominous as we set out for our last day of loaded riding (at least Stephen was loaded). We planned to spend a couple days in Bad Weisee and do some day trips to Garmisch and surrounding areas while staying with a long time family friend Jackie Petterson.

We had some climbing to do beginning with Steinpass then through Erpfendorf, Oberaudorf and up into the skies. The town outside of Oberaudorf had a most appropriate name 'Wall' as the 2-3 km stretch through the town was a wall. Probably the steepest grade we had climbed our entire journey. We topped out at a small ski hill and then dropped down into Bayrischzell as the rain started to fall. We drank coffee in Bayrischzell hoping it would stop but to no avail. It did eventually ease up but we were chilled. We dressed in mulitple layers to finish the last 30km to the Tegernsee and Bad Weisee. Yet again 3km from our destination the skies opened and we rode the final few kilometers in the rain.

It was a relief to arrive at Jackie's. We indulged in some Italian fare for dinner and slept in the next morning. The rain had been coming down steadily most of the night and continued that way for 2+ days.

Week 2 - Austrian Alps to the Dolomites

2009-07-27T10:51:00.001-07:00

Day 6 Biberwier(Lemoos) to Wattens

This marked the beginning of riding in alpine terrain with a nice gentle one to start - Fern Pass

Followed by Kutai at the other end of the spectrum it was brutally steep with some stretchs of 18-20% grade and and a consistent 12% average, it climbed several thousand feet over 18 miles. We stopped to rest at a Volunteer fire station about 9km up as a rain downpour began. We waited it out sitting in the shelter of the firestation and finished the climb. And descended into Wattens in sunshine.

This was our first true taste of how the Austrian's like to build their roads. Recovery zone on the switchbacks with brutal grades along the stretches between the switchbacks. Unlike the Italian's, who build gentler grades between the switchbacks but brutal grades through the switchbacks.

Day 7 - Wattens to Mittersill

We meandered in the beautiful valley passing through Schwaz, then Fugen and a climb up Gerlospass. I had heard much about Gerlos while teaching skiing in Australia as many of the Austrian instructors including the Thredbo Ski School director at the time Roland Wanner were from Gerlos. The side we climbed was definitely the gentler version. It has high alpine Moors (a nature-conservation area) on the top of the pass. Then we plummeted down to the view of Krimml Waterfalls – the highest waterfalls in Europe (part of the Hohe Tauern National Park) and into the Krimml Achen Valley. If we had come from the other side up through the KrimmlValley the road is steep with many switchbacks. The Gerlos Alpine Road has only been open to traffic since 1964, when the Province of Tyrol and die Tauern Power Stations connected the road between the Pingauer Höhe and the community of Gerlos during the construction of a gigantic reservoir.

As we stopped at the information and viewing area on our way down we learnt that above the Krimml Waterfalls there is the Krimml Achental valley, the longest and most elevated Tauern valley. Upstream of the top stage of the waterfalls the trail becomes flat, with beautiful Alpine pastures. One of the side valley's branching off the Tauern Valley is the Windbach valley. The Windbach valley has one of the oldest crossings over the mountains of the Krimmler Tauern, the historical ”Säumerweg”, a mule track into the South Tyrol Ahrn valley, the route farmers would travel with their herds.

The road connection from Salzburg to Tyrol, however, has an even longer history

http://www.gerlosstrasse.at/en/gerlos-alpenstrasse/geschichte/karrenweg-zum-goldschatz.htm

Day 8 The Grossglockner to Heligenblut

The next day we set out for an even bigger adventure as recommended by the hosts at the Gausthaus we stayed at in Mittersill. The Grossglochner, an experience that should not be missed. Thus, we set out for the Grossglochner, the highest peak in Austria, on a day where the weather was a little questionnable - we stopped in Bruck for coffee and free internet which could be found at most MacDonalds in Austria (I always knew Micky D's would be good for something). The weather was holding but not improving, so we forged on.

We arrived at the Gates to the national park to be told by the gate attendant we should not go up. At this point we had already climbed 5km of 12% grade and Stephen was not turning around. The road climbed from about 700 meters to 2500 meters over 22km. The weather held for quite a while but then we hit 2000 meters and things got ugly.

http://www.grossglockner.at/en/

"The Grossglockner is more than just the highest mountain in Austria. It is enveloped in the aura of an extraordinary personality, cast on all who fall under its spell.“.... As a popular excursion destination it is the epitome of an impressive natural experience for many people: size and power can be felt here, one is subject to the fascination of the eternal ice and the elemental force of nature." For us as we climbed this 22km pass from 700m to 2500m, at about 2000 meters the clouds blew in, it started sleeting and the wind was icy cold.

The views would have been spectacular - except that the clouds covered most of it. There were moments of clarity where we had glimpses of magnificent glaciers but only for a few brief moments. We arrived at the first Alpine Refuge bitterly cold and wet, things were ugly. Stephen had the strength to forge on, without his will power I would have been beside myself. The height and magnitude of the glacers was amazing, despite the lack of views.

We put on everything we had except the fleece pullovers we had brought for cold evenings. This included one of our most valuable purchases - plastic helmet covers, undershirt, jersey, 2 sets of armwarmers, vest, shell jacket, gore tex jacket, leg warmers, plastic bags on our feet and headbands. Oh an did I forget to mention the glove overmits I brought for emergencies.

We forged across a couple kilometers between 2300 and 2500 meters then the road plummted down into the little town of Heligenblut. Stephen had a flat and we were wet and cold. We decided to call it a day and found an empty gasthaus and purchased groceries right at closing.

Day 9 Heligenblut- Lienz - Toblach/Dobbiaco to Cortina D'Ampezzo

This day was a long one but incredibly beautiful. We finished the decent from the Hohe Tauern through Hochtor, then into Lienz. Here we caught a section of the Drau bike route a well travelled route, usually ridden in the opposite direction to us where cycling tours ride almost all downhill from

Lago di Misurina

Over Passo Tre Croci and into Cortina

Day 10 Cortina the surrounding passes

We decided to stay 2 nights in Cortina - a beautiful town tucked in the Dolomites with spectacular peaks jutting out in a 360 degree view. Of the multiple roads leaving Cortina there is only one that does not go straight uphill. This is the route we left via on Day 11 due to predicted bad weather.

Some of the 360 panorama from Cortina D'Ampezzo

However on this day we were going to embark on a 75-80 ride with several passes. First we climbed the early part of Passo de falzarego and then turned to climb Passo de Giau. The climb was awesome with spectacular views of the Dolomite formations. Down the backside of Passo de Giau we determined we had definitely ridden the easier side, which had been humbling nevertheless.

The View from Passo de Giau the first of many epic views of the Dolomites. This pass had an epic climb from the other side also one we might have to return to in the future.

We were already cooked at this point and realised we had bitten off more than we had bargained for. We decide to return back to Cortina via just one pass versus 3 so climbed to the summit of Passo di Falzarego. A spectacular winding road.

Passo Falzarego then dropped us all the way back into Cortina.

Again with spectcular views of this Beautiful town, rock underpasses, veiws of cable cars, ski jumps and more.

Day 11 - Cortina - Valle di Cadore - Feltre

The weather dictated a change in our original plan to spend several days in the Dolomites. The prediction was for heavy rain so we headed to the lower lands for a couple days to avoid climbing passes in bad weather or having to sit inside and wait it out. We followed sections of the Via Claudia Augusta Route - The Via Claudia Augusta follows a route blazed by the Romans 2,000 years ago, a heritage still vivid as you ride across wagon wheel scars and by age-old ruins. It bears witness to the fascinating building achievements of the Romans, and to the history and events of the Roman era and of the Middle Ages.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Via_Claudia_Augusta

We rode down Valley into Valle di Cardore, down into some spectacular canyon-like roads. There was some heavy industry in the valley from mining. The road was fairly quiet with a heafty headwind as we dropped in elevation. Then the valley opened out into a more hilly valley terrain. We would our way through the hills avoiding the rain that had settled into the Mountains. The roads were awesome, quiet and a gave us a true taste of the real Italy.

We arrived in Feltre to discover it is challenging to find accommodation in bigger towns and cities that is affordable. The tourist information office was super helpful and we found an affordable hotel. To get to it we wound our way through the cobbled streets and walls of this super culturally oriented Town. They have a university and some excellent Italian language courses, not to mention Feltre is one of the towns that is an entryway into the Dolomites.

Day 12 - Feltre - Trento - Bolzano - St Ulrich

We departed Feltre again with grey skies and the chance of rain. Once we passed through Trento we had the pleasure of a wide and super nice bike path all the way int Bolzano. A hopping city where we sat in the Piazza enjoying a break in the rainy weather. Stephen indulged in the glories of Italin Gelato. We then continues up valley, after a short rainstorm planning to stop before heading back up into the Mountains. The weather started to improve and as usual our short day got extended as we started the climb back into the Dolomites.

The town of St Ulrich was a beautiful ski town - we stayed in a super nice Guest house with the name of Panoramik- the hosts were excellent.

Another castle along the bike path from Bolzano to San Michele

Day 13 - St Ulrich - Corvara (Val Gardena region)

This was an epic day with 4 passes and the awe inspiring views of the Dolomites. Words cannot express how incredibly nostalgic this scenery is - you have to ride it to believe it.

We started with Passo de Sella followed by Passo Perdoi then down for coffee and up over Passo Campolongo.

Then we arrived in Corvara to light rain, found a great guesthouse to stay in, the rain stopped and we did the final climb up to Passo di Gardenia.

Climbing up to Passo Sella

Passo Perdoi

This region of Italy is called the Alta Badia Region

Day 14 - Corvara - Bruneck - Toblach - Lienz

We returned to the Drau bike path from Toblach to Lienz we got to ride 47km all downhill this time. Stayed in Lienz to do a bit of housekeeping and rest since we had not taken a rest day yet.

Corvara and Cortina were lovely places if we win the lottery one of these towns will be our second home :)

Bicycle Touring in Europe as a Type 1 Diabetic

2009-07-04T18:53:00.000-07:00

After finishing a most amazing 5 week vacation in Europe I have so many memories, spectacular scenery and laughs to reflect on. It was an incredible experience riding with my husband Stephen; deciding on routes and passes to climb, finding places to stay each night and learning how to work outside my usual controlled and predictable daily schedule.

The Dolomites in all their spectacular glory

One of the Many spectacular passes we climbed in the Dolomites

We rode approximately 3000km (1850 miles) in 27 days with one day off (we actually rode 25km even on that day) and a couple of shorter days where we rode less than 80km. We did 2 century days (160+km/100miles) in our third week and averaged around 80-130km (60-90 miles) a day for the rest of the time. Our journey included total elevation gain of over 32,000 meters (over 100,000 feet).

Check out this link for the GPS track of our route

http://www.gpsies.com/map.do?fileId=hyrqsmgbzpayeiza

There is one word to describe how we felt upon arriving in Bad Wiesee, Germany which was the end point of our tour - "Cooked" but extremely happy.

What were the challenges?

The biggest challenge was needing to keep my insulin cold and having to ask people each evening at the places we stayed - including guest houses, hotels and inns - if they could put my insulin in their fridge and the ice pack we carried with it each day in the freezer. This is kind of tough when you dont speak the language - this included German, Italian, Slovenian or Czech depending on what country we happended to be in at the time. But I got brave and did it. We used our IPhone translation app and managed to get across the message that it was medicine and needed to be in the fridge. It all ended well and I came home with no frozen or ruined insulin or Symlin.

Late in the second week of the tour I did experience some extra high blood sugars which seemed to last all day. On day 2 of highs I took a closer look at my bottle of Apidra and realised it was cloudy and had gone bad. This is the bottle I generally dont keep refrigerated as it is the one I am using all the time. From this point I kept it in the pannier bags with the ice pack to try and avoid any further problems.

Finding places to stay - we did not have any reservations and played it day by day. We usually had a destination in mind but nothing set in stone in case weather turned inclement or we simply did not go as fast as we thought we would. We would then arrive at a town where we knew we were done and start knocking on doors of Gasthauses, Pensions and the occational Hotel when we were desperate. Often if we arrived in a town early enough the Tourist information offices would be open and they generally had great listings of open accommodations. We would find a few in our price range and ride there to see if they still had rooms. Generally at the time of year we were there it was pretty easy to find availability, however as soon as you go into larger towns and cities it was more difficult. One Sunday evening just outside of Graz, Austria we had checked several places and were not having luck finding anything affordable. We passed through 3-4 towns with no luck, it was after 7:30pm, Sunday so no stores open and we still had no bed and no food for dinner. We did find a nice place thanks to the Owner's of a guesthouse that was full - they referred us to a neighbor down the road - we had a super nice place to stay then dinner and straight to bed. The evening accommodation hunt was often our time of tension as neither Stephen nor I like knocking on doors asking for a room, but we survived and for the most part had excellent accommodations along the way.

I was on severe luggage/weight limitations as Stephen was carrying 2 panniers with all our gear. This included 2 t-shirts, 2 pairs of shorts, undies & socks and one extra set of riding clothes. Then syringes, test strips, insulin for a month plus extra in case of breakages, Omnipod POD's and an ice pack for the insulin. I decided to take only the bare minimum number of Omnipod POD's to just last the days we were away and if necessary I would just have shots if there were any malfunctions. I went only 2-3 days without a POD the whole trip which was great, definitely makes dosing with short acting insulin much more convenient.

The beautiful Town of Cesky Krumlov, Czech republic

How did I manage my food intake and insulin doses?

What is my normal regimen so you can see what I changed.

Omnipod Basal Rates
10pm-8am 0.05 units
8am-10pm 0.1 units

Apidra

Morning Apidra dose - 2units extended, .75 immediately then the remainder over 1.5 hrs
Lunch Apidra - 2units
Dinner Apidra - 12 units extended - 5-6 units immediately then the remainder over 1.5-2.5 hours.

Lantus

AM 6 units
PM 16 Units

Symlin

Pre-breakfast 6 units
Pre-Lunch 8 units
Pre-dinner 10 units

The Omnipod extended boluses have also been my saving grace as I use Symlin - which I only used primiarily at the evening meal during the tour. Being able to extend my insulin doses has prevented some of the severe lows I have faced when taking Symlin, a full dose of short acting insulin and eating a meal. The symlin slows absorbtion of food into the blood stream to help with the post meal highs that I experience, however as I was learning how it worked I had a several severe post meal low blood sugars. The omnipod extended bolus has allowed me the opportunity to have the insulin delivered in an extended fashion as the symlin wears off and the food starts being absorbed. For me the Symlin slows food absorbtion dramatically for the first 45 minutes then it begins to go in and my short acting extended dose can then cover the absorbtion.

So how did I change things while touring?

I cannot believe how much food I consumed for the entire duration of our tour. I was eating at least double my usual carbohydrate quota at breakfast, lunch and dinner and dropped my lantus doses from 6 units in the AM to 4.5 and evening from 16 units to 13-14 units.

During the day my Apidra doses were about 50-70% of normal. It took about a week of dropping doses at the beginning of the tour and then stabilised so I kept the doses pretty much the same for the remaining 3 weeks. Usually 1.5 - 1.75 units for breakfast; 1 - 1.5 units at lunch and usual dose for dinner as my food consumption at dinner was usually quite large.

My control was not ideal - a little higher average than I would have liked but at the same time things were quite stable and with the stressors of foreign countries, using a more obscure treatment regimen and riding bicycles everywhere with not car for transport this was probably a "safer" strategy for me. My A1C was not really any worse than my last Dr visit but not any better so now that I am back home in a routine my focus is still get down into the low seven % then hopefully six % by next year. It is as always a work in progress for me that I am not as good at as most of my Team Type 1 compatriots - they are great inspiration for me to keep striving to get to the ideal zone.

I am a non red meat eater, or the other white meat - this is definitely a challenge in Europe as the staple seems to be Pork served in all varieties ham, sliced meats, salami's and sausage. Aquiring Chicken and turkey meat pre-cooked was expensive and definitely not great quality, so instead I resorted much of the time to cheese. We also ate the many fresh baked bread options from the amazing bakeries in every town, cookies and powerbars for food while out riding.

I consumed more bread and cheese than you would think was humanly possible throughout our Journey - now I will have to cut back and hope that I can bring my cholesterol back to normal. It has been a little above normal for the past year so I may have to make some major adjustments or start taking medications to keep it normal. That bums me out as I love Cheese which of course is not the greatest for High Cholesterol.

My weaknesses - cheese and butter. I use the cholesterol lowering type and try to eat low fat cheeses but this does not seem to be helping my cause. Anyway that will be the next project to address with the Dr when I go back to the Barbara Davis Center for my next appointment in July.

Coffee at Lago del Predil, Italy

after our climb through Triglav National Park in Slovenia

then Passo del Predil Italy and back to Kranska Gora Slovenia

What happened after the tour...

I returned to my normal insulin doses almost immediately after we had completed our tour. I definitely had a few days of highs as my body was trying to figure out why I was not exercising, just like when I finished RAAM. Your body responds with a state of insulin resistance as it is not sure how to work when you cease exercising all day and return to a more "normal" existence. Not that I would classify my schedule as normal but my body still has to adapt to normal versus 4-7 hours a day of riding my bike.

We returned to Colorado and I was back on my usual training schedule pretty quickly but oh boy my legs were pathetic. They hurt pretty much all the time when climbing for the first 3 weeks after returning to our 8150 feet living environment. I think my body needed time readjusting to altitude. Despite lots of fitness, that did not make up for not being at 8000 feet for 5 weeks and then suddenly returning. I expected to be able to go mountain bike and climb passes immediately, which was not really the case.

4 weeks later things are looking up. Legs have stopped hurting and Mountain biking is feeling a little more comfortable now. My A1C was not stellar but not really any worse than before I left. I definitely kept things a little on the higher end being in unknown places and not knowing what medical care would be like if something went wrong. Now I am back on track and trying to get it down again. Cholesterol is still high but not as bad as I thought it might be after 5 weeks of eating tonnes of Cheese, that is a relief.

Please send any questions you might have on Diabetes and bike touring to me at kerry.white@hotmail.com.

"Life is a journey not a destination..." Our trip was definitely an unforgettable journey and has left a longing in our hearts to return to Europe again, it is an amazing place for cyclists.

Bicycle Tour of Europe 2009 - Week 1 Romantische Straße

2009-06-30T04:05:00.000-07:00

For four weeks Kerry and I toured through Germany, Austria, Italy, Slovenia and the Czech Republic. We covered appoxamately 3,000 kilometers and who knows how many meters of climbing. We tried our best not to follow the typical touring routes in Europe, but instead to visit the side valleys and climb the passes that most Europeans consider only possible on so called "Racing Bicycles". Below is a recap of the first five days of tour.

Part 1 Romantische Straße

The first part of our European Tour was down the Romantische Straße or Romantic Road. The Romantic Road starts in Würzburg, Germany and travels south through Bavaria finishing in Füssen, Germany. "A Trade Route During The Middle Ages, Germany's Romantic Road Still Retains Much Of Its Medieval Character. The Road Often Winds Through Forgotten Sections Of Countryside, Connecting Walled Towns And Picturesque Villages. Travelers May Enter A Town Through An Arched Gateway Complete With Guard Towers. Inside, You Will Find Gothic Cathedrals, and Half-Timbered Fachwerk Houses". Though the route is typically driven by car, however there is a well marked cycling and a well marked hiking/mountain bike route between each city. We managed to use a combination of both routes to complete a the 4 day tour down the Romantische Straße .

Kerry's parents Bill and Wendy, sister Jodie and newborn nephew Timo joined us for the entire journey down the Romantic Road. It was a great way to warm us up for the additional 3 weeks we were going to spend touring without a sag. They travelled each day to our chosen destination in an RV, carried our luggage, purchased and cooked food and made it an awesome start to our vacation. Our heartfelt thanks to our Family for enduring 6 days in an RV - Jodie especially with a 3 month old it was quite the adventure and she handled it like a pro, despite the fact that she has only been a Mum for a few months.

Marienberg Castle Fortress in Wurzburg
Day 1 we rode from Wurzburg to Rothenburg ob der Tauber about a 140 km. We had some difficulty finding the start of the cycling route. I had downloaded a track on to my GPS, but the track turned out to be the hiking route.
Wurzburg is the northernmost town on the road. It was founded in 650 BC by the Celts and is the center of the Franken wine growing region.

Kerry was a little upset when within 15 minutes of riding we started down single track. I thought it was a perfect start to a 4 week tour. Our first week definitely involved some meandering from the paved Romantiche Strasse route to the off road route, which were both well marked and covered an amazing variety of terrain, cultural spotlights and magnificient views. The adventures had begun...

Rothenburg ob der Tauber was founded in 1170. "The name "Rothenburg ob der Tauber" means, in German, "Rothenburg above the Tauber". This is so because the town is located on a plateau overlooking the Tauber river. As to the name "Rothenburg", some say it comes from the German words Rot (Red) and Burg ( medieval fortified town), referring to the red colour of the roofs of the houses which overlook the river." The town is located in the Franconia region of Bavaria.

A famous street in Rothenburg called Plönlein with Koboldzellersteig and Spitalgasse

The Town Center

White Tower in Rothenburg (circa 1172)

Town Wall in Rothenburg

Day 2 - Rothenburg ob der Tauber through Dinkelsbuhl,Nordlingen, Donauworth to Oberndorf am Lech we pedaled a 145 km.

Dinkelsbühl: Dinkelsbühl had a much more down to earth real people feel, as compared to Rothenburg ob der Tauber. We stopped for coffee and pretzels in the walled town and watched as the daily mayhem continued.

Another walled town we passed through was Nordlingen. Nordlingen is a also a medieval city with a surviving wall surrounding it. During medieval times this wall provided protection for those living within. Nordlingen is built in the crater of a meteorite that crashed to earth many years ago. It was more of a real walled city - less engrossed in the tourism and more of a real town with people simply going about their business.

One of the multiple entrances to Nordlingen where we promptly got lost and almost ended up coming back out the same gate we entered through.

Donauthworth is said to have been founded by two fisherman where the Danube (Donau) and Wornitz rivers meet. We rode through a gate into the walled city that has been converted into a home it was a very cool sight.

Day 3 - Oberndorf am Lech through Augsburg, the Pfaffenwinkel region and Landsberg am Lech

Augsburg: Augsburg has a rich history dating back to the Roman empire. Dubbed both "The Renaissance City" and "Mozart City", it has been an important center of trade down through the ages. During the Renaissance, Augsburg was a main cultural center which is reflected in its fine Rococo architecture.

It was a bustling city where we dodged cobbles and electric buses and had the usual backery stop for a mid morning snack.

Pfaffenwinkel: It's a small region rather than a town and is famous for its churches and pristine landscapes; a must-see is the pilgrimage church Wieskirche ("Church in the Meadow") in Steingaden; this rococo masterpiece is on the list of the UNESCO world Heritage sights." We were a little oblivious to its significance but it definitely looked cool as we rode by.

Landsberg am Lech is yet another picturesque medieval walled city 35 km south of Augsburg along the Lech river, but Landsberg has a twist. It's known for its prison, in which Adolf Hitler was incarcerated in 1924 and where, in cell 7, he wrote Mein Kampf.

Day 4 - Kostertechfeld to Rieden AM Forgensee (Fussen)

We continued on the catwalk like bike path through beautiful countryside to the destination of Fussen. Here we visited the exterior of Neuschwanstein castle and stayed in a campground right on the Forgensee (Forgen Lake). Neuschwanstein castle was used as a the basis for the Disneyland castle seen all over the world. It is a magnificent sight

Neuschwanstein castle (built between 1869 and 1886, by King Ludwig II of Bavaria) is the most famous castle in Germany and it is located in the small village of Schwangau near Füssen. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neuschwanstein_Castle

Some of the Magnificent Neuschwanstein architechture throughout the years of its construction

Castle Hohenschwangau (restored 1832 to 1836 by Crown Prince Maximilian of Bavaria, Ludwig's father) is the romantic neighbour castle of Neuschwanstein. We rode around this one as we were castled out by this point.

Castle Hohenschwangau the sister castle of Neuschwanstein

Neuschwanstein Castle and Hohenschwangau Castle mark the end of the Romantic Road and the start of the Bavarian Alps. Fussen is Bavaria's highest town (800-1200m above sea level). We still had some time before Wendy, Bill, Jodie & Timo had to return home so decided to venture to the Highest Mountain in Germany - the Zugspitze: at 2,964 metres. Although we decided not to take the cablecar to the Peak due to exorbitant costs the views were amazing and our thirst for the Alps was building. The mountains always feel like home to us and we were at the gateway to some epic climbs.

The view of the Bavarian Alps as we approached Lemoos

Day 5 - Rieden AM Forgensee to Lemoos

On our final day with the Lawson RV Sag we rode from Rieden AM Forgensee to Lemoos, checked out the Zugspitze and found a campground with a spectacular view of the mountain as our last night with the Lawson clan. The following day we would depart without our faithful sag and the many awesome meals that always accompany the Lawson family. Stephen would not have his hand selected beers each night nor that hot cooked meal. It was awesome to spend time with our family in such beautiful places, hopefully there will be more sagged bike trips in the years to come. Unfortunately Jodie's husband Berten could not join us for the adventure down the Romantic Road but hopefully he can enjoy the pictures and stories as well as seeing how much Timo grew in one small week while travelling in an RV.

The base of the Zugspitze cable car

Morning Farewells and a final look at the Zugspitze

Stephen was loaded up and we were headed for the Bavarian Alps and The Dolomites.

Double Commando Run Speed Tour

2009-03-26T18:59:00.000-07:00

Vail Nordic presents the 1st running of the Double Commando Run Speed Tour. The speed tour will be held Saturday, April 4, 7:00 am sharp. This is an Elk Mountain Grand Traverse style tour in which teams of two will start and finish on Vail Mountain at the base of Gold Peak in front of the Larkspur restaurant following a route of their choosing to Vail Pass and back. The recommended route roughly follows the famous Commando Run Ski Tour.

Each team will choose the type of ski equipment to use, speed (touring pace or race pace), and route. The only mandatory gear is a cell phone for each team member.

Expected race times for the fastest teams are between 6.5 and 7 hours. The shortest route is approximately 14 miles one way.

There will be a manned gear drop at the Vail Pass rest area. The cost for this service is $10.00 per person payable to the person that valets the bags. There will be 5.5 hour cut-off time for accessing your gear at Vail Pass. If you do not think you can make the half way point before the cut-off time please carry adequate food, water and clothing.

Please RSVP to Stephen White xcwhite@hotmail.com 970-376-1033 or Dawes Wilson daweswilson@hotmail.com 970-479-1914.

When: Saturday April 4, 6:45am mandatory pre-tour meeting. 7:00 am tour start

Where: Start and finish is on Vail Mountain, Base of Gold Peak (far eastern access to Vail Mountain) in front of the Larkspur Restaurant.

Parking: Village Parking Structure Not sure of the parking charge, but I guarantee you that it is cheaper than your typical race entry fee.

Entry Fee: None

Gear Drop Fee: Mandatory $10:00 per person payable to the valet that takes your gear to Vail Pass and back. Arrangements will be made for picking up gear left at Vail pass after you finish the race.

Mandatory Equipment: Each person must carry a cell phone

Recommended Gear: Skis that you are able to safely maneuver in spring like conditions(Metal edge Touring, AT, Telemark, X-C classic, and Skate skis are all legal), ski skins, adequate clothing, eye protection, food, water and a map.

Route: Your choosing, but here is a link to a map of the recommended one way route http://www.gpsies.com/map.do?fileId=zrfndsdirqxhdtvc

Post Tour Party: My house - directions will be provided.

RSVP: Stephen White xcwhite@hotmail.com 970-376-1033 or Dawes Wilson daweswilson@hotmail.com 970-479-1914

Triple R Classic Tonight

2009-03-19T06:24:00.002-07:00

Fourth running of the original Triple R (Rando, Renegade, Rally), course this Thurs. March 19. Start will be at the Vista Bahn at 5 p.m., this will allow most to finish without a headlamp. Course will be the same, skiers choice to Midvail, chair 4 liftline w/bootpack through cliffs, A course-descend Forever to bottom chair 5, ascend Forever, descend frontside via Prima Cornice upper gate, down catwalks to Vista bahn. B course- same first ascent, descend Riva or Gandy Dancer if winch catting on Riva. Required gear- Helmet, headlamp, ski retention device, pack or bandolier for bootpack, cell phone. Suggested-food, water, extra clothing, clear glasses or goggles Questions? email xcwhite@hotmail.com

Triple R Classic Tonight

2009-03-19T06:24:00.001-07:00

Wilson Cup 20km Nordic Race Results - 3/7/09

2009-03-07T20:03:00.000-08:00

The blizzard conditions made for an extremely difficult 20km. During the race 3-4 inches of snow fell on a frozen corn surface. We plan on staying with the late afternoon start, dinner afterwards format. The post race dinner was much more fun than the race. Thanks to all that raced.

20 KM Men
1. Stephen White 1:03
2. James Howe 1:04:43
3. Dane Johnson 1:06:55
4. Dawes Wilson 1:08:18
5. Ryan Mihm 1:08:59
6. Bill Allen 1:13:47
7. Scott Rogers 1:14:23
8. Rober Fitz 1:16:20
9. Sean OBrian 1:18:28
10. Eric Gallagher 1:18:40
11. Shane Sluder 1:21:08
12. Ryan Mora 1:26:08
13. Eric Kapitalik 2:18.0

Women
1. Mia Stockdale 1:17:36
2. Kerry White 1:29:19
3. Susie Vick 1:;35:04

10k
1. Rob Hamina 1:19
2. Sally Ryerson 43:00 - Stop after 1 lap.
3. Rob Bailey - 1:02 - Stop After 1 lap.

Solo RAAM as a Type 1 Diabetic

2009-03-01T16:53:00.000-08:00

For those of you who have not read my story about competing in the Solo division of RAAM in 2007, I have decided to share my story below that I wrote over a year ago. You might ask Why Now? Well I hope that it might help some people out there Type 1 diabetes who are struggling with the day to day challenges of this insidious disease.

And now that we have become bloggers I want to let people know about what Solo RAAM did for me looking to the now.

So ....As they say Hindsight is 20-20 look for my next blogs on how I am working towards 20-20.

Race Across America as a Type 1 Diabetic

Twenty to twenty-two hours a day of cycling for nearly two weeks through 14 states, across all types of terrain and in all weather conditions, all while managing type 1 diabetes. For most people, this sounds impossible. In retrospect, it does sound pretty crazy, but it is also the ultimate way to challenge yourself with what life it truly about.

I have found the words of the philosopher Eric Butterworth to be an expression parallel to how I wish to live my life…

“Why be an average person? All the great achievements of history have been made by strong individuals who refused to consult statistics or to listen to those who could prove convincingly that what they wanted to do, and in fact ultimately did do, was completely impossible.”

After competing in RAAM twice as a team competitor, the race has developed for me into an addiction that is difficult to describe. RAAM has an aura that is unmatched by any other race I have competed in, it drives you to return and compete again and again. The complexity of the challenges and obstacles that competitors and crew in RAAM endure is mind boggling, but at the same time forms an internally compelling desire that gives you no choice but to return and compete again.

This past year, I was determined to enter as a solo competitor and fulfill what seemed to me to be the ultimate personal challenge - 3050 miles across 14 states with my goal being to finish in the time cut off of 12 days and five hours. Managing sleep deprivation, keeping average speed above 10.1mph (the minimum to meet the cut off times), tolerating and consuming enough food to sustain energy and coping with physical ailments such as saddle sores, were just a few of my personal fears in undertaking this event. My additional challenge was to manage my type 1 diabetes in order to maximize physical performance - a challenge that I struggle with on any normal day, let alone while riding 20-22 hours a day.

My initial compelling reason was totally selfish and really a personal challenge for me to see if I could be tough enough and good enough to complete such a huge undertaking. RAAM is what one might classify as one of the ultimate tests in the limitations of humanity - what more can I say in regard to compelling reasons (in the warped kind of way that ultra endurance athletes think!). To simply make it to the start line of RAAM is the ultimate test in organization, determination and will power. To finish is the icing on the cake.

As the time grew closer the compelling reasons began to change, as I realized this was not about me challenging myself any longer. I was out to express to people - that those of us who are inflicted with type 1 diabetes can do anything we set our hearts and minds to. As I made my way across the country, the expression broadened not just to those with Diabetes but to all those people supporting and watching my progress. Not finishing the race was not an option. It was important to make it because my crew and people watching the race were counting on me to prove that anyone can do it, all you need is enough heart and desire, some physical preparation and a good dose of perseverance.

Preparing for the race

The planning for the event proved to be a full time job in the two month lead up to the race.
Had I not decided to quit my job due to some personal issues I do not think I could have done it – that is the organizing or the training. As I have indicated above, to make it to the start line you deserve a medal for diligence.

Training for the event began with base endurance which was something I had been building for the past eight years as a cyclist and in general my whole life trying to live a healthy lifestyle.

Throughout the 2006-07 Winter I trained roughly 15-20 hours a week by skiing and cycling on my indoor trainer. I did a lot of long backcountry ski touring throughout the winter months, as living at 8150 feet (with average snowfall above 300 inches) makes riding in the winter pretty challenging. I classic and skate ski on groomed trails around our home, do long backcountry tours on roads and in untracked snow. As the spring and summer emerges I substitute skiing with riding, running and the occasional swim. Of course my number one choice is to ride, but the diversity keeps me from injury and overtraining (sometimes).

As the weather became warmer I began training outdoors for 25-40 hours per week. In the spring (beginning the second last week in April) I went to California for 8 days and did several 100+ mile days followed by a 3 day solo trip with a small backpack from Salinas CA to Malibu, CA. This was a key element to building mental and physical toughness as I had no-one to call and bail me out, I was on my own. Then, through the remaining weeks from the end of April until the end of May I continued with several 2 day back to back long rides such as 200 miles followed by 80-100 miles. In the weeks leading up to the race, I slowed down a little and did shorter rides at a high intensity. I also continued until about 3 weeks out from the race to run 2 times a week and occasionally swim to keep the variety and try to avoid overuse injuries.

RAAM preparation is not really only about the 9 months of specialized training prior to the race but more the end result of an ultra endurance lifestyle. I think you will find that many people who do this race may not be cyclists but are endurance athletes in a variety of sports. The training you do is a lifestyle, everyday, not just to prepare for a particular race. The lifestyle choices you make are what help prepare you for an event like RAAM. My regimen is more of a daily lifestyle choice to try and help manage my type 1 diabetes, stress and depression and of course to stay healthy.
I love to ride my bike, it is not really about racing but about the way exercising makes you feel – the training is simply a way to add some structure to daily activities which assists in maintaining healthy living with mental and physical focus.
This however is a bit of an oxymoron because it is very easy when attempting to be an ultra athlete to over train. Which in-turn causes stress, depression and lack of motivation. These are some if the challenges I have often struggled with. My training regimen could be accurately labeled as Obsessive-Compulsive. I think for almost all RAAM solo competitors they probably have many of the same OCD characteristics, usually you must suppress and control them in order to maintain other life functions, but during RAAM preparation and the race – you can let it all hang out.
My crew wagered bets on how long it would be after RAAM before I got back on my bike – for some it was a couple weeks, my Mum was the most accurate she said a week. I went home and raced in the local mountain bike series race on the back of a Tandem with my husband Stephen the day we arrived home 5 days post RAAM. Stephen shook his head and said no but I won the battle. This was a social event to simply let my friends and all those supporting me know that I was home, alive and well and it was great to feel my heart almost jump out of my throat again.

The Race

So what happens when you ride a bike for 20-22 hours a day for 13 days straight as a Type 1 Diabetic?

Let me begin by saying ‘nothing is as it seems’. Everything we had predicted with my insulin doses did not quite pan out as anticipated, but this was not going to stop me from achieving my goal.

I began the race using a Continuous Glucose Monitoring device which was a great asset initially, but as with many new medical devices it had some quirks. The device was good, but I returned to my faithful blood sugar monitor three days into the race to help with consistency in my readings. I tested myself about 10-13 times each day and once an hour when I was not feeling the best. My long acting insulin doses (of Lantus- a stable base line 24 hour insulin) were a twice daily event. Normally an 8 unit dose in the morning and a 16 unit dose in the evening. Then short acting insulin injections at meal times throughout the day. Usually these are 3 times daily 2 units in the morning, 2 units at lunch, 8 at dinner and 4 before bed. I had worked collaboratively with my endocrinologist in lowering my insulin doses as we thought this would be necessary for the first several days until I reached a baseline level of insulin that I would need for the remainder of the race (about 50-60% of what my normal daily doses would be of my long acting insulin) and a larger drop in the short acting insulin that is taken at meal times. It was anticipated that my short acting insulin would possibly be needed in small doses when eating meals but not really while I was eating on the bike.

Things seemed to be okay the first few days, blood sugars were dropping and I was eating plenty. Then around day 4, things started going haywire. Blood sugars were rising then I would take short acting insulin and bring them down but a few hours later they would rise again – each time I ate more than 1-2 portions i.e. 15-30 grams of carbohydrate my blood sugar would rocket up. The long acting insulin doses that I take 2 times daily were not enough to cover the load. In prior 24 hour mountain bike races I have kept my blood sugars stable just using long acting insulin (at about 75% of the normal dose) with little need for the short acting insulin. This however was not the case after multiple days of constant exercise.

My Endocrinologist – Dr Peter Gottlieb from the Barbara Davis Center in Denver - after reviewing my blood sugar logs and food log seems to think that my body entered a high stress/hormone phase probably around day 4. This is when blood sugars began to rise and although the exercise intensity was still high – where-by muscle glycogen supplies were constantly being exhausted, the stresses on my body were requiring additional insulin to assist with processing food and most likely the high levels of adrenalin and hormones in my body (which also raise blood sugar levels). I continued to raise the long acting and short acting insulin doses throughout the race but in hindsight not nearly enough.

As a counter strategy in trying to bring my blood sugars back into the more normal zone and for other reasons as well as blood sugar control, I began to consume a high protein diet. My food intake initially was heavily carbohydrate loaded with ‘powerbars’ and energy drinks as the primary energy source for the first 1-3 days. Additionally, I ate trail mix, salty crackers, yogurt drinks, jerky, cheese and bread/bagels with peanut butter. After three days, I began to feel that something was not quite right and that I was lacking in energy. I had lost a significant amount of weight in what seemed like a very short period of time so my diet was changed to a very high protein content - six eggs burrito for breakfast, avocado sandwiches, chicken and cheese at other intervals throughout the day. Over the next several days this high protein content definitely helped improve my energy levels. I was also consuming bread and butter, trail mix, Powerbars and the occasional stick of licorice or jerky but the carbohydrate content was definitely not at a level one would think you would need to be riding your bike for 20-22 hours a day. My crew adjusted to this high protein diet as I had lost a lot of weight around day 4-5 and this definitely helped with some of the muscle loss I had experienced. But unknowingly it also was the right strategy for resupplying my muscles with energy while my blood sugars were in a much higher than ideal state.

My nutrition was definitely unusual and not really what I had anticipated. Thus – my diet was very high protein with considerable carbohydrate consumption but if blood sugar control had been better I may have consumed more carbs than protein. Yet another “What if “ scenario that I may never know the answer to. The strategy used at the time was absolutely successful. Fast food, cookies, cakes, alcohol, Gu’s etc are not part of my normal daily diet. The daily management of my blood sugars is a super challenge, I have made a conscious choice to not add any more variables into my diet because it tends to be fairly unmanageable as it is. I may have eaten a McDonald’s grilled chicken sandwich at the final time station in NJ (just the thought of it now makes me shiver) but this is as close as I ever get to fast food. French fries and hamburgers are definitely not on the foods that I eat list – any time, cycling or not. My diet is very healthy, but any carbohydrate consumption for a diabetic is challenging. Your body does all sorts of things with that fuel – and the same fuel from day to day can have very different effects on your blood sugar depending on the moment. Simply living is pretty challenging some days, but riding my bike is one of the experiences in life that helps me feel like I can be normal for a few moments in time, and when things are in control I can eat Powerbars – my favorite and most faithful riding, running, skiing, swimming and all round energy food.

Saddle Sores

The next biggest issue apart from Blood sugars being out of whack was saddle sores.
If there was a reason to DNF my butt would have been it. My massage therapist had a role change mid race and became my crotch therapist. I tried just about every possible item you could buy to ease the pain and discomfort. Lanacaine cream and bag balm were the best as they provided a combination of pain killing with antibiotic treatment to at least prevent the abrasions from getting worse or becoming infected. My analogy of RAAM and saddle sores is - at best you will have some discomfort, at worst saddle sores can be a very real reason to DNF. For me it became a battle of mind over matter – in which I would not let the matter win! We cut apart several hundred dollars worth of saddles to help with easing some of the pressure points causing discomfort and I used an adjustable stem which allowed my mechanic to change my handlebar position as the situation developed. By the end I could only laugh at myself as I looked like I was sitting in an armchair with the arm rests displayed at about chin height – definitely for comfort not aerodynamics. The remedial bar position – a position which I kept for several weeks after arriving home until my husband ordered me to put the regular stem back on proclaiming “You are not racing in RAAM anymore, that is embarrassing to look at!”

Sleep Deprivation
Ah if only you did not have to sleep to make the most of your waking hours – RAAM would be easy – NOT. Sleep deprivation however is an obstacle you must learn to manage and keep in control. If I had not had to sleep I could have kept riding as physically my body and mind were in it to the finish, but when you are falling asleep while riding you have no choice but to stop and sleep. My originally planned 3 hour sleeps per night were not really doing the trick, and since I was falling behind the necessary pace we had already cut the sleep time to 1.5-2 hours. After a few different approaches we found 1 hour around 10-11pm when I normally would go to bed, and then another hour around 4:30-6am were working better. Then if I started weaving and riding poorly my crew would stop put a blanket down on the side of the road and I would take a 10-15 minute power nap and get right back on the bike. The power naps staved off falling asleep for 45 minutes to an hour and then I would need to do it again. Usually a couple of power naps a night until my sleep at 4:30am would do the trick and keep me safe and riding as much as possible.

Despite the fact that I was an unofficial finisher due to missing the final time cut off in Indianapolis, Indiana - I gained so much. There was overwhelming support and encouragement from people all over the world for me to continue to Atlantic City and feeling this energy and hearing messages from supporters helped me to continue. My amazing crew showed an incredible commitment to me, one that I can never repay them for and a commitment which drove my desire to continue all the way to the finish line. My goal is to continue this hope and inspire people to live their dreams and believe in the impossible. Dream it, Plan it, Live it!

The Clark Bridge a momentus crossing of the Mississippi River

The RAAM Aftermath

I don’t know what you think but I had imagined that Racing RAAM was the hard part. I would have to say that the post RAAM events have been almost if not more challenging than riding my bike for 13 days. RAAM ends when you reach the finish line…Diabetes unfortunately does not.
I think I could describe my post RAAM condition as one whereby I have reached the maximum state of Insulin resistance. My body has been in a general state of protest. I stored everything I ate and gained 10 lbs. My body was preserving itself just in case I might be crazy enough to put it through the same punishment again. Body and mind in these instances are not communicating on the same plane. Even though my mind knew I would not do it again any time soon, how was my body supposed to know too.

My blood sugar control was off the wall – highs every day and they just did not want to come down. I was still exercising a bunch – maybe not full speed ahead but not really anything lower than what my normal exercise routine had been pre-RAAM training – 2-3 hours a day broken into 1-2 or 3 separate sessions. Trainer in the morning before work, run at lunch a few days a week and ride or swim after work. Then long rides on the weekend.

Well back to the Doc it was. I have worked diligently for the past 8 years with my Doctor to bring a disaster laden A1c reading of 11+ (The A1c is a laboratory test that indicates the average amount of glucose in the blood over the last few months. Roughly speaking, if your A1C is 6, you have been keeping your blood sugar around 135 mg/dL on average. The higher your A1C level is over time, the higher are your chances of developing serious complications from diabetes including retinopathy, amputation, kidney failure, heart disease and neuropathy.) Down to 7.9, but now I knew I had most certainly been on the upswing. I have been in the danger zone for complications from diabetes for several years as I have tried many different insulin regimens, exercise and healthy lifestyle habits to bring my A1C down into the desired 6.5 zone. Obviously I am not there yet and I took an upswing back to 8.7 after RAAM preparation and racing. Now however after 3 months of diligent carbohydrate cutbacks, altering insulin doses and returning to a somewhat more normal schedule I made a miraculous drop to 7.6 over a 3 month period. The nurse and Dr were practically dancing in the office when they saw my last A1C, this did not however come without a great deal of self control and more than diligent management. I am determined to make it to 6.5 in the next year and of course more importantly stay there. I have already had one period of Diabetic retinopathy treatments. As the Dr explained I am on rung 6 of the second 10 runged ladder of danger – I cannot let my guard down and must stay vigilant in reaching this goal for the sake of seeing the incredible beauty that surrounds us every day of our lives.

Defining the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

This country is of course even more beautiful when travelled on a bicycle. My Dad describes this incredible country and the moments of RAAM with words of such eloquence I cannot help but share them with you..

“Many parts of the country have left a lasting impression on me. Just the thought of riding “from sea to shining sea” is a concept of great immensity. I find both the oceans (superior and inferior – an Australian term of course) an inspiration. I love Oceanside – such a great place to start. The pure adrenalin rush of the start is also very special. I love the California Coast Ranges with their stark outlines and lack of trees.

The desert and the Salton Sea were sights to behold and the Colorado River seems out of place when you eventually reach it. The Indian country of the Navajo and Utes was forbidding and little reward for native Americans – just like Central Australia and the aborigines. Monument Valley at sunset was very special and the Rocky Mountains need no explanation – their grandeur astounds. Your ride up Wolf Creek Pass will never be forgotten by those of us privileged to see it. The plains of Colorado and Kansas with the rolling hills of “Misery” were seemingly endless. The State Capitol at Jefferson City is as Dave puts it “the only good thing about Missouri” The mighty Missouri River and crossing the Mississippi on the Clark Bridge were special moments.

National US 40 recalls history lessons and the Covered Bridge we crossed reminds me of your Grandma Crews and her love of these old landmarks.
Just when you think it is all over then comes the Appalachian Mountains and finally the brassiness and crassness of Atlantic City.

I have left out the two which moved me most. The Tornado destruction of Greensburg, Kansas was incredible to see and the early morning in Gettysburg reminds us of how Americans slaughtered Americans in the Civil War. Both places brought tears to my eyes.

Nothing we saw compares to the sight of your relentless ride with all the courage it took to go on and on towards your goal. It was priceless to watch and indescribable in it’s manifestation of all the heart and soul which makes you the pesky fighter you are.
We love you all the more for this and thank you for wanting us to share it with you.”

The Finale...

I hope that you might concur with RAAM Communications Manager, Perry Stone whose words express what I had hoped to achieve. To show the world that courage and bravery can go a long way, and that Diabetes is not the end of the world it is merely the commencement of a realization that life is not a destination but a journey…

‘I have to wonder if what Kerry White did, in some ways, isn’t grander than just becoming an official finisher of RAAM. Isn’t what she accomplished the greatest example of ‘making the best of it’, that you have ever seen?
What a wonderful world, she had the courage and bravery to show us so much. She may have come in last, but for many, she led the whole way.’

Race hard - Train Long

2009-03-01T15:07:00.001-08:00

Kerry and I this past weekend decided to double it up. That typically means a race on Saturday and a long, hard day of training on Sunday. We are currently training for the North Routt Coureur des Bois x-c ski race. It is a 90km loop from Steamboat Lake to the Wyoming Border and back.

Early Saturday we headed over to Grand County to compete in the Snow Mountain Ranch Stampede 42km Nordic race. The Stampede is one of oldest and most attended x-c ski races in the state. The course is challenging and 42km of fun. Kerry and I both produced excellent results. Kerry took 3rd in women's classic and I topped the podium for the 2nd weekend in a row. The conditions were the typical cold & dry Colorado snow. To add little excitement to picking my race skis and the pre-race warm up, I discovered I missed the wax by 7 degrees Celsius on the warm side easily. The week preceding the race, Colorado went through major warm spell and we were fooled into thinking the weather would remain warm on Saturday. I should have rembered that Grand County is always one of the coldest places in the country. I did not decide on which pair of my skis to use until about 10 minutes before the start. Usually, I make my ski selection at least 45 - 60 minutes prior to starting. I flipped a coin and went with warmer of the two pair that I had narrowed it down to.

I was able to make my winning move on a long sun exposed climb 15 km into the race and then steadily increase the time gap over the rest of the field all the way to the finish line. Kerry made a move on 'the lady in orange' (the woman beat her last week in leadville ), about 15 km into the race. This put her into 3rd place, but after the hard effort she was unable to ski down 1st or 2nd place.

Sunday morning we slept in, well Kerry slept in till 9:00am, I can never sleep past 7:00am. Then we spent most the morning getting motivated with the help of our coffee press while planning our early summer bike tour in
Europe. After the outside air temperature warmed up, we decided on a mill creek, mushroom bowl ski tour. Essentially a 30 km lap around the Vail Mountain Ski area with about 1400 meters of climbing. Kerry decided to make the tour on her 10 year old Atomic wax-less skis and I decided to skate ski the route. A decision I regretted about half way in. It is much easier to climb 1400 meters on classic skis than skate skis. The weather and skiing were perfect. Vail must have groomed the mill creek road on Saturday making for perfect skate skiing

The air temp was near or above 0 degrees Celsius and just a scattering of clouds in the sky. I skied both climbs with short sleeves and no gloves. Since Kerry was on Classic and I was on skate skis we split up for the tour. The ski took Kerry around 5 hours and me around 3 1/2 hours. I felt wasted from the previous days race I believe I normally do this route in under 3 hours(if only I had gotten the wax right). On the 2nd major climb from the bottom of China Bowl to the top of PHQ (Patrol Head Quarters, top of Vail Mountain), I could barely lift my arms to pull and my head was hanging so low, I though I was going to kiss the tips of my skis. Anyways, it has an excellent weekend of training for the North Routte. Hopefully a good result and race will come for both of us.

In case anyone is interested in doing one of the hardest skate ski tours in the Vail Valley, I mapped out the route below.

Zodiac Spires from Benchmark

Mount Holy Cross looking past Blue Ski Basin

Ellen Miller's 50th Birthday - Age is a state of Mind

2009-02-25T18:20:00.001-08:00

Bright and early this morning (thanks Ellen for letting us sleep in till 6:00am this year), we skinned up to the top of Vail Mountain to celebrate Ellen's birthday. Find out more about this amazing woman and highly regarded athlete by visiting her website

http://www.womenontopoftheworld.com/

Does Ellen look 50 to you? My guess is closer to 30, but she is proud to be turning 50 years old.

The whole gang.

Vail Ski Patrolman - Billy Mattison

Mike and Emily Kloser

Blondie
Ellen and Blondie competed in the Trans-Alp running race last year

How many people skin 3,000 vertical feet to celebrate their 50th B-Day? Ellen would say more should.

Marie-Christine, Blondie, Ellen and Cosmo
Dawes Wilson
Neil Henzler removing his skins.

Kerry White and Marie-Christine

Ellen and Adam

Eeva visiting from Alaska

It was a beautiful morning.

Suffering at 10,000 feet

2009-02-22T15:55:00.000-08:00

Nothing makes you feel sorry for yourself faster than competing in a cross country ski race that starts, finishes and actually never dips below 10,000 feet in elevation. Today Kerry and I competed in the Leadville Loppet 44km x-c ski race. The race is held on the Mineral Belt Trail in Leadville, Colorado. Kerry skied the 44km classic ( makes my lower back hurt just thinking about it) and I skied the 44km Freestyle, known to many as skate skiing. The conditions were ideal with sunny skies, air temperatures in the mid 30's and snow tempurates well below freezing. Normally this race brings on the worst in Colorado weather.

I had the pleasure of skiing all but 1 km with former mountain bike pro and rando race skiing legend Pete Swenson. This is not a race you want to ski by yourself. Lots of wind and fast wide open decents. Having someone to draft makes a hard race just a bit more pleasurable. Neither Pete nor I were interested in pushing the pace probably due to having to use thin, dry Colorado air. The race came down to last 1 km climb to the finish line where Pete decided he had had enough.

The Vail Nordic Ski Team was well represented in the top 10 placings occupying 4 spots on the Men's side and Kerry taking 2nd overall in the Woman's classic. Travis was 3rd, Dawes Wilson 5th, Adam Plummer 9th and myself taking the overall.

Here is Kerry's take:

Today we went to Leadville to compete in the 44km race in the Mineral Belt Trail. The race is a fundraiser to keep the trail maintained.

It was beautiful and sunny very little wind and just a bit too warm for classic skiing. It started okay in the awesome treed runs right by the Colorado Mountain College Campus. They have some great terrain for Nordic skiing. Then you exit the treed nordic area onto the Mineral Belt trail and ski about 25k out an back on some beautiful trail with spectacular views. By this time the sun had been out for a while, the tracks were becoming a little glazed which made for some challenges on what is the right kick wax.

I had 4 layers of Toko red and one of Violet on top. Just after passing the 2nd aid station at about 11km I bonked. The morning had started with a blood sugar of 223 before warming up, then went to 78 10 minutes before the start so I had to eat a bunch of powerbar gel blasts, thought I would be good. However things got worse - I went way too hard at the start, had a huge crash at the bottom of the first descent right out of the start and then tried to catch up to the one other lady I could see classicing ahead of me. I drank gatorade at the first and second feed but then oh boy did I blow up. Had to stop twice to eat some powerbar and more gatorade at the third feed. Finally at about 18km I started feeling like I might survive the rest of the race, as I was passed by Stephen, then Travis, then Dawes and then Adam all on their way back to the finish. I had stopped feeling sorry for myself and finally got my pacing back.

I was doing okay at the 22km turnaround, the tracks were a little slippery but I still had enough wax to kick a bit and double pole on the flats. The mineral belt trail has pretty gentle inclines and declines so you can get by with limited kick. Then at around 15km to go it tops out and you begin the winding ups and downs in the trees back to the finish. The tracks were fast for a bit, then I hit some slush and nearly went head over tail. Laughed at myself and worked through the tree trails to the end with almost no kick but too close to the finish to stop and rewax.

Felt very thirsty at the end and Stephen was waiting to greet me with his camera so he could post me on facebook. He has become a facebook addict now. The feed after this race is always good with lots of homemade soups and chilis, but the prizes and raffle are a time sucker. We laughed a bunch while hoping one of our raffle tickets might come up so we could win a cookie or fanny pack, the best prize was a set of poles but not to be for Vail Nordic today.

Stephen had planned to have me drop him off in Red Cliff so he could skate up Shrine Rd and ski back on the Commando run but decided he had had enough for today - thank goodness as I was cooked and wanted to go home for couch time.

Training by Headlamp

2009-02-19T20:12:00.002-08:00

If you work 40-50 hours a week, often the only way to get any decent amount of training in is to strap on the headlamp and head out after dark. Kerry and I probably log about 50-70% of our training hours after dark in the winter months and that was definitely the case today.

I decided to do a classic ski up to the top of China Bowl on Vail mountain this evening. So I waxed up the classic skis with a nice long thick layer of kick wax and started up the cat-walks out of Gold Peak. I skied Mill Creek road up to the bottom of chair 11 and then threw on a some narrow skins and went straight up the ski runs the rest of the way. When I was young, I xc skied up and down trails a fair amount after dark without any light. Now days, I always bring some sort of head lamp. Once I reach the top of the Ridge, I decided to ski the ridge over to the Lionshead gondola and checkout the action at adventure ridge. Lighting is definitely not a problem there as adventure ridge can be seen from top of any other ridge/peak in the county and is quite the eye sore. From the gondola I skied down Lodge Pole, Ledges and made my way back to Gold Peak. This was definitely the hardest part of the ski but excellent downhill practice. You think you are a good skier, try linking turns down ungroomed blues on 205 racing classic skis and low top racing classic boots.

Kerry did a similar ski tonight up Mill Creek and over to the gondola. She is not a big fan of skiing down in classic equipment so she rides the gondola down. This definitely produces some strange looks from the tourists. Ski up, ride the lift down. Not the way most people operate.

Commando Run

2009-02-17T19:10:00.001-08:00

One of our favorite ski tours is the Commando Run. Most guide books have the following to say about the Commando, "The Commando Run from Vail Pass back to Vail Resort is regarded as one of the most challenging and best ski tours in Colorado. The Commando Run is named for the U.S. Army’s 10th Mountain Division soldiers who used to train along this demanding route for high-altitude skiing combat and the commando raids during World War II. Popular today for its outstanding views and quality of snow." We highly recommend this tour for any avid back-country skier.

The Commando Run is a staple of our yearly training plan, and we have use it to train for such events as Elk Mountain Traverse, Coureur des Bois 90 km Ski Race, and simply to maintain endurance. Most winters we complete the tour 3-4 times. The tour typically takes us anywhere from 3-6 hours to complete depending on snow conditions, chosen equipment (anything from heavy metal AT to light weight racing x-c classic equipment), motivation, route decisions and company.

Thursday of last week, I had one of my best outings on the Commando (except for the fact that Kerry was unable to join us). Making the tour enjoyable were long time local/national endurance legends Dawes Wilson, Ellen Miller, Billy Mattison, Mike Kloser (the pace was fast and furious) and Andre Boesel. The trail was skied in, temperatures moderate, zero wind, and a clear sky with a bright moon for visibility. We started at 5:30pm, Dawes kept the pace fast, and we completed the tour by 9:00pm.

Chicago Ridge

2009-02-16T16:32:00.000-08:00

Today's Adventure comprised of a skin up to Chicago Ridge, a windblown ridgeline above Ski Cooper just outside of Leadville. There was a cat track all the way up which made for easy skinning, despite the fact that Kerry was bonking right from the get go. Then we did three runs in some pretty nice pow pow, with some windblown sections but overall great skiing.
We then skied down, poached the lift to the top of Cooper and back to the car.
Now we are couch bound and ready to watch another day of Tour of California coverage.