tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87150725112301293032024-03-13T08:34:58.550-04:00Shawn Ambrose - The adventures of a middle-aged biker :-)I'm blogging about my 50+ year old self, my love of biking, my struggles to stay in shape, and anything else that comes to mind.Shawn Ambrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17796941060570488364noreply@blogger.comBlogger21125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8715072511230129303.post-61945675184099938382017-09-03T21:42:00.004-04:002017-09-03T21:42:36.674-04:00Happy September!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SJ6DUkB9xzQ/WayoetPLlgI/AAAAAAAADGQ/b30h3K4IPsoCaqnK9xlwQCUyF7x-lVs8gCLcBGAs/s1600/Ohio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SJ6DUkB9xzQ/WayoetPLlgI/AAAAAAAADGQ/b30h3K4IPsoCaqnK9xlwQCUyF7x-lVs8gCLcBGAs/s640/Ohio.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
It's September. The days are getting shorter, the evenings cooler. And football season is upon us!<br />
<br />
So why the "Welcome to Ohio" sign? As I prepare for Lorie's Lakeside Century on September 16, I've been going on some long rides to prepare. More often, I'm riding to towns in Ohio (Antwerp and Paulding) because it's logistically easier for me. There is a c-store around Mile 18 of the ride for the 1st break, and after I hit the half-way point, I know that c-store is waiting for me as I prep for the last 18 miles. In general, the roads heading to Antwerp and Paulding are better for biking as well. Finally, while it may sound silly, there's something about crossing a state line while on a bike. It's only 25 miles on the bike, so it's not a long distance, but it's a certain feeling that I can't describe as I cross the state line on a bike...but it's pretty cool!<br />
<br />
Speaking of long rides, I biked 77+ miles on Saturday, and 61+ miles the week before. Tomorrow I'm riding with Three Rivers Velo Sport for the Labor Day Ride and plan to ride 50ish miles. I'm ready. I'm very excited for Lorie's Lakeside Century because I am riding with a friend, along with one of my former MBA students and her friends. Should be a great ride. Here's hoping for good weather in a couple of weeks.<br />
<br />
In other news, for now, I'm slowly winning the "Battle of the Bulge."<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yzeL3bSvKiY/WaytonhN8aI/AAAAAAAADGg/sk3bkjm8bmUS-ZxMdR-Wd7uw8RGSGSmnQCLcBGAs/s1600/Shawn%2BWeight%2BLoss%2B090317.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="662" data-original-width="911" height="464" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yzeL3bSvKiY/WaytonhN8aI/AAAAAAAADGg/sk3bkjm8bmUS-ZxMdR-Wd7uw8RGSGSmnQCLcBGAs/s640/Shawn%2BWeight%2BLoss%2B090317.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm down 26.8 pounds for the year! My goal for the end of the year is to be at 200 pounds. I don't know if that will happen, because I had that bad stretch when I was injured due to my bike accident. I performed a regression analysis; and according to the analysis, I am projected to come in at 210 at the end of the year. The next few weeks for me are critical, because in the past, my weight loss tends to stall out around 220...I become discouraged...then I quit. I need to plow through this.<br />
<br />
Finally, my thoughts, prayers, and donations are with the people of Houston. Both my wife and I have family there, and we are heartbroken at the devastation that Harvey brought. Thoughts and prayers are important, but please, give to a reputable charity and help.<br />
<br />
Here's to my favorite month of the year...September!<br />
<br />
ShawnShawn Ambrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17796941060570488364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8715072511230129303.post-40869578168024726612017-08-06T18:00:00.001-04:002017-08-06T18:00:38.210-04:00Canoeing, biking, and other random stuff...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tfDeRF7HMN4/WYeK4yl5H6I/AAAAAAAACi4/LKsUroSotJkpr8dUlxxikYOWkjyURijTgCLcBGAs/s1600/Allegheny%2BRiver.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tfDeRF7HMN4/WYeK4yl5H6I/AAAAAAAACi4/LKsUroSotJkpr8dUlxxikYOWkjyURijTgCLcBGAs/s400/Allegheny%2BRiver.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
It has been a great two weeks!<br />
<br />
The last week of July, I spent a week in the Allegheny National Forest. I'm the Assistant Scoutmaster of Troop 34, and our troop spend three days on the Allegheny River. As you can see from the picture above, it is a beautiful river. We had a great three day trip, covering 45 miles on the river.<br />
<br />
We saw a great deal of wildlife. Fish jumping out of the water, bald eagles flying, and the scenery! The Allegheny River is a great novice river. There are a couple of class I rapids, but overall it's very calm. The river is also designated a wild and scenic river, which means that it's basically untouched. I'd love to come back up here and do a trip, and as much as I love Boy Scouts, to have an adult trip... :-)<br />
<br />
A couple of shout outs...<br />
<br />
1. Piper and her crew at Allegheny Outfitters in Warren, PA are just fantastic. They took care of our troop, gave us a great update on river conditions, and were very prompt with our pickup time. Here's the website: <a href="https://www.alleghenyoutfitters.com/">https://www.alleghenyoutfitters.com/</a><br />
<br />
2. Pizza and Ice Cream - there is only one place to go in the Allegheny National Forest...and that's Bob's Trading Post. Great Pizza, and HUGE portions of Ice Cream! <a href="http://visitanf.com/bobs-trading-post">http://visitanf.com/bobs-trading-post</a>/ <br />
<br />
After my trip, it was time to get back on the bike.<br />
<br />
I had an easy ride on Saturday July 29 as I was still recovering from my canoe trip. But this past week was a good (but interesting) week on the bike.<br />
<br />
My total mileage was 114 miles. Yesterday I had my long ride post injury (43.9 miles) and I rode 114 for the week. Had a great "E" ride with the gang from Three Rivers Velo Sport on Tuesday as well. It's nice riding with people. In a couple weeks, I'm going to try to step up to the D group on Tuesday...we'll see.<br />
<br />
I also had an interesting ride on Thursday. I like riding the St. Mary's Greenway, and was on a ride on Thursday when a few riders were stopping traffic. Apparently a rider witnessed two men chasing each other with shots fired. The police came, and I had to take a detour on my ride. Interesting to say the least...<br />
<br />
The coming week is shaping up to be a good week. Going to ride 50 - 55 miles on Saturday and work in a couple of other rides as I gear up for Lorie's Lakeside Century. One of my friends from the Tour de Friends riding group is going to ride also. We haven't seen each other since we rode in May, and I'm looking forward to getting together again.<br />
<br />
Until next week...<br />
<br />
Shawn <br />
<br />Shawn Ambrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17796941060570488364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8715072511230129303.post-84262771630225924702017-07-23T20:31:00.000-04:002017-07-23T20:50:09.547-04:00The battle rages on...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S1ZcOi2SF7c/WXU8OiKUUbI/AAAAAAAACiU/_CksqRfclagGO7OklceeRGx-ZnA1HE9-wCLcBGAs/s1600/Shawn%2BWeight%2BLoss%2B072317.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="662" data-original-width="911" height="464" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S1ZcOi2SF7c/WXU8OiKUUbI/AAAAAAAACiU/_CksqRfclagGO7OklceeRGx-ZnA1HE9-wCLcBGAs/s640/Shawn%2BWeight%2BLoss%2B072317.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
30 weeks of data lends itself to good data analysis - or so the legend goes...(See: <a href="https://statswithcats.wordpress.com/2010/07/11/30-samples-standard-suggestion-or-superstition/">https://statswithcats.wordpress.com/2010/07/11/30-samples-standard-suggestion-or-superstition/</a>)<br />
<br />
My goal is to get to 200 pounds by the end of the year. According to the regression equation:<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; language: en-US; mso-text-raise: 0%; vertical-align: baseline;">y = -0.6934x + 241</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; language: en-US; mso-text-raise: 0%; vertical-align: baseline;">y = -0.6934(52) + 241</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; language: en-US; mso-text-raise: 0%; vertical-align: baseline;">y= 205</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; language: en-US; mso-text-raise: 0%; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; language: en-US; mso-text-raise: 0%; vertical-align: baseline;">I'm close. My injury and family reunion season (marked by the uptrend from weeks 23 - 29) definitely set me back. However, I'm not that far away that I still can't make my goal. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; language: en-US; mso-text-raise: 0%; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; language: en-US; mso-text-raise: 0%; vertical-align: baseline;">Had a great week on the bike. Total mileage was 119, and rode 40 miles yesterday in hot and humid conditions in the middle of the day. Although I was a little stiff after the ride, I felt good this morning.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; language: en-US; mso-text-raise: 0%; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; language: en-US; mso-text-raise: 0%; vertical-align: baseline;">The coming week will be a different type of workout week. I'm going on a 46 mile canoe trip with my Boy Scout Troop - and my upper body will get a workout. I'll be gone Monday - Friday, and then seven weeks to Lorie's Lakeside Century. I think I have a great mileage base back and will be fine for the Century. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; language: en-US; mso-text-raise: 0%; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; language: en-US; mso-text-raise: 0%; vertical-align: baseline;">I'm also starting to toy with the idea of purchasing a used road bike over the winter months for 2018. I ride a Trek 7.1 hybrid, and while it's a good bike to ride the Great Allegheny Passage and C&O Canal Towpath (the reason why I purchased it), I'm seriously considering a road bike to improve speed in 2018. My brother purchased a road bike on eBay for his son and he loves it. I don't want to spring for a new road bike, but like the idea of a decent used one.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; language: en-US; mso-text-raise: 0%; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; language: en-US; mso-text-raise: 0%; vertical-align: baseline;">Thanks again for taking some time to read my blog. I appreciate it greatly!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; language: en-US; mso-text-raise: 0%; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; language: en-US; mso-text-raise: 0%; vertical-align: baseline;">Shawn</span>Shawn Ambrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17796941060570488364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8715072511230129303.post-57935452727682934722017-07-16T21:11:00.000-04:002017-07-22T21:33:54.680-04:00Back on the bike - and on to the next goal...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H47aEsx1vDY/WWwMdGDvtzI/AAAAAAAACh8/VOdv_e1wXLI_qmLM5KTQr-AeirhQ-LSIwCLcBGAs/s1600/LLC_logo_color%2B-%2Bweb%2Bsmall%2B175.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="207" data-original-width="175" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H47aEsx1vDY/WWwMdGDvtzI/AAAAAAAACh8/VOdv_e1wXLI_qmLM5KTQr-AeirhQ-LSIwCLcBGAs/s400/LLC_logo_color%2B-%2Bweb%2Bsmall%2B175.jpg" width="338" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
September 15, 2017 - Lorie's Lakeside Century.<br />
<br />
I've been cleared to ride and have been on the bike for a couple of weeks now. The shoulder and wrist are still a bit sore from time to time, but that's just going to take time. Meanwhile, it's time to start riding again.<br />
<br />
I rode for 35 miles on Saturday. Overall, I felt good. I averaged just under 12 MPH for the ride, which is good considering a good bit of my ride was in the City of Fort Wayne where I had to stop a bit. Afterwards, my thighs were a bit stiff, but overall, I felt good. I plan to put in some miles this week, and then after spending the last week of July in a canoe with Boy Scouts, I can put in 7 solid weeks of training. I feel good about the ride, and I'm excited that one of my GAP ride buddies has decided to ride Lorie's also. (Note - I did not say she is going to ride WITH ME, as I expect she will ride at a much faster pace than I will...but it's all good!) :-)<br />
<br />
This week I plan to have good rides on Tuesday with Three Rivers Velo Sport, and a speed workout on Thursday. There's a section of the St. Mary's Pathway just south of Foster Park that is an old road, that I can let loose a bit and not worry about traffic. I plan to start working on some speed as I get ready for the ride.<br />
<br />
Again, thanks to everyone who encouraged me while I was recovering. I wanted to ride RAIN this year (it was yesterday); but it's ok. Congrats to many of my fellow 3RVS members who had a great ride yesterday in RAIN!<br />
<br />
Now that I'm riding again...I'll have incentive to keep my blog up to date. Thanks for reading!<br />
<br />
ShawnShawn Ambrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17796941060570488364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8715072511230129303.post-45813689438183261282017-06-11T19:22:00.000-04:002017-06-11T19:22:28.644-04:00Crash...and a change in plans...May 30 and I'm out on a ride with 3 Rivers Velo Sport...and as we are stopping at an intersection...I hit the front brake a bit too hard...and over the handlebars...and another biker on top of me...<br />
<br />
Kudos to all the club members who were with me. They kept me down, made sure I was ok, (and at the time I thought I was...). Got up and rode about 28 more miles and considering it was very windy...rode respectfully well.<br />
<br />
Got in the van to ride home...left shoulder is beginning to kill me. Pull into the driveway and have my daughter take me to the ER at Lutheran Hospital. Left shoulder is killing me, right wrist hurting a little bit.<br />
<br />
After evaluation and some x-rays...the left shoulder...badly bruised...but not broken...<br />
<br />
the right wrist...fractured...<br />
<br />
So on June 19 I go to Fort Wayne Orthopedics to have my wrist evaluated. It's feeling fine. The shoulder is recovering nicely as well; but I was supposed to be in peak training for RAIN now, and now plans have changed.<br />
<br />
No RAIN ride for 2017...and I AM OK WITH THIS.<br />
<br />
While I think I would be ok for RAIN, (according to the website you need to go 12 - 14 MPH to finish by 9 pm), another year training will help me, so there it is. I'm cautiously optimistic I will be cleared to ride on June 19, and I can gear up for Lorie's Lakeside Century in September, and then stay on a good winter program.<br />
<br />
I've also decided to ride a thru trip from Pittsburgh to Washington DC during the last week of July in 2018. That will be a good reward for riding RAIN.<br />
<br />
So, it's the exercise bike at Planet Fitness once again...and an update after June 19...<br />
<br />
ShawnShawn Ambrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17796941060570488364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8715072511230129303.post-379430645861634352017-05-28T20:31:00.000-04:002017-05-28T20:42:00.584-04:00Great Allegheny Passage - Complete!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hPkWmjpk0HQ/WSSvUgO07gI/AAAAAAAACYc/bXwp8jWe6qo75rZ49gt_plNEwJFCWrIrwCLcB/s1600/Point%2BState%2BPark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hPkWmjpk0HQ/WSSvUgO07gI/AAAAAAAACYc/bXwp8jWe6qo75rZ49gt_plNEwJFCWrIrwCLcB/s640/Point%2BState%2BPark.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
For those who follow my blog, I have been gearing up to ride the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP)for several months now. Well, it happened. I just spent an amazing few days on the GAP. I dare say that it was an extraordinary experience!<br />
<br />
<b>Tuesday May 16</b><br />
<br />
In September 2015, Amtrak announced roll-on, roll-off (RORO) bicycle service for the Capitol Limited. The Capitol Limited originates in Chicago, with stops very close to the GAP and C&O Canal Towpath in Pittsburgh, Connellsville, Cumberland, Harpers Ferry, and Washington, DC. I took advantage of the Capitol Limited last year when I biked solo from DC to Pittsburgh, and I decided to use the service again.<br />
<br />
I left my house in Fort Wayne for the 40 minute drive to the Amtrak station in Waterloo, IN. I downloaded the Amtrak app to check the status of my train. When I left Fort Wayne, the train was running on time. I left in plenty of time to grab a couple of things at the store I needed for the train trip (Powerade, Trail Mix, and Gummy Candy). As I was pulling into Walmart to pick up these critical items, I received a text alert...my train was now running 45 minutes late. Well, at least I didn't need to rush at Walmart...<br />
<br />
I picked up what I needed, and drove to the train station, and waited, and waited...My 10:23 p.m. departure became the midnight train to Cumberland, when I departed from Waterloo...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GoJSbZ9XWlo/WSVyFKNnpTI/AAAAAAAACYs/CY3rPJQ6ImkPNehFbpmRt0naAVRKgQDOQCLcB/s1600/Shawn%2Bbike%2B-%2BWaterloo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GoJSbZ9XWlo/WSVyFKNnpTI/AAAAAAAACYs/CY3rPJQ6ImkPNehFbpmRt0naAVRKgQDOQCLcB/s320/Shawn%2Bbike%2B-%2BWaterloo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I found out the reason for the delay was there was a bridge that was stuck open in Chicago. Regardless, I settled into my seat and prepared to sleep. Fortunately, I had two seats to use. This picture gives an idea of how much room you have to sleep in coach:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VfzybymXN74/WStebhIGCSI/AAAAAAAACeU/Uc9rFS4Uuhct9hOynCSy_kP2kfmA5E6KgCLcB/s1600/reclinedcoach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="220" data-original-width="330" height="213" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VfzybymXN74/WStebhIGCSI/AAAAAAAACeU/Uc9rFS4Uuhct9hOynCSy_kP2kfmA5E6KgCLcB/s320/reclinedcoach.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From Amtrak's web site</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Wednesday May 17</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
I woke up from my sleep around 6 a.m. - not bad...6 hours of sleep in a coach seat! I checked Google Maps and saw that I was close to the Ohio/Pennsylvania border. I decided to get up from my seat and move to the observation car. One of the things I like about taking the train is the ability to get up and walk around while traveling, which you can't do with many other forms of transportation. I also know that on the way to Pittsburgh, the train would go through Rochester, PA - my hometown! Here's the video:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwJlyMkkwme9W8_5qkYuk3ihVkGE9I2pHNIeOkLgp7Yiki4JDFP3F0-Kjn2jsA02YC-jfMtVjgmphEzJFLvqg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After going through Rochester - I knew that Pittsburgh wasn't that far away!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aD-xp3czJpE/WSV2UH5z6rI/AAAAAAAACY4/cWM1yCNxS5gBTs7UDkY16D4XBbtChK5iACLcB/s1600/Pittsburgh%2BSkyline.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aD-xp3czJpE/WSV2UH5z6rI/AAAAAAAACY4/cWM1yCNxS5gBTs7UDkY16D4XBbtChK5iACLcB/s320/Pittsburgh%2BSkyline.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After arriving in Pittsburgh, I settled back in my coach seat, and slept a bit more...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After my nap, I just looked out the window at the beauty of the Laurel Highlands. I've been through here before on two previous rides on the Great Allegheny Passage, but the beauty never grows old. I just became more anxious to ride the trail...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After arriving in Cumberland, I was met by my brothers Bruce, Brian, and Gregg. Brian and Gregg agreed to ride with me, and Bruce was their ride from the Pittsburgh area to Cumberland. We ate lunch at the Cream City Creamery...which I highly recommend. After lunch - it was off to the Fairfield Inn in Cumberland to check in.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The Fairfield is very convenient for bikers. It is located RIGHT ON the C&O towpath. Of course, the Fairfield is a Marriott property, so the service, cleanliness, comfort was top notch. After getting settled in, Brian, Gregg, and I went for a quick spin on the C&O Towpath.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The C&O Towpath is a tougher ride that the GAP. While the GAP is primarily crushed limestone on the abandoned Western Maryland Railway, the Towpath is a goat path. Literally. This picture from Trip Advisor give you an idea of what the Towpath looks like around Cumberland:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ScpS0NePDuY/WStez3UkXiI/AAAAAAAACeY/Q_xtIqVgY0EaNirIV76gFr_wtSCLM7XpACLcB/s1600/c-o-canal-towpath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="410" data-original-width="550" height="238" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ScpS0NePDuY/WStez3UkXiI/AAAAAAAACeY/Q_xtIqVgY0EaNirIV76gFr_wtSCLM7XpACLcB/s320/c-o-canal-towpath.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From Trip Advisor</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Nevertheless, we did an 18 mile spin, got back to the hotel, and I took a nap 😊😊😊</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After the nap, it was time for our pre-ride social at the Crabby Pig, where our group would meet. I organized the trip on Facebook, so some of us had never actually met each other. We had a great time getting to know each other over a great meal. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sxTBfsi2BGw/WSV81VJ60eI/AAAAAAAACZI/NSe83hAH_mYt95eWWEWvJVDdo9fAyp30QCLcB/s1600/Shawn%2527s%2Bmeal%2B-%2BCrabby%2BPig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="1440" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sxTBfsi2BGw/WSV81VJ60eI/AAAAAAAACZI/NSe83hAH_mYt95eWWEWvJVDdo9fAyp30QCLcB/s320/Shawn%2527s%2Bmeal%2B-%2BCrabby%2BPig.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crabby Pig - Ribs and Crabcake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After a great meal...it was time to sleep...and ride!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Thursday May 18: Cumberland to Rockwood</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9tNq7fC3ut4/WSV9FuG3YMI/AAAAAAAACZM/F1UDT_JjW4sSrPe2n-31xn-37fYAqS6_wCLcB/s1600/The%2BGang%2B-%2BCumberland.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9tNq7fC3ut4/WSV9FuG3YMI/AAAAAAAACZM/F1UDT_JjW4sSrPe2n-31xn-37fYAqS6_wCLcB/s400/The%2BGang%2B-%2BCumberland.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The gang getting ready to depart<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XlBe6cXEick/WStgJavW3qI/AAAAAAAACek/ibyqcYtIILEPu_gom42uXEdQ9ZlVxF5_QCLcB/s1600/IMG_1658.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XlBe6cXEick/WStgJavW3qI/AAAAAAAACek/ibyqcYtIILEPu_gom42uXEdQ9ZlVxF5_QCLcB/s320/IMG_1658.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
Seven of us started the ride: Me, Jeff, Nancy, Laurie, Ayleen, Gregg, and Brian. Due to a previous commitment, Jeff and Nancy would ride to Connellsville and head back home. After a couple of delays...we were ready to go, with a nice 1,787 feet of climbing over 23 miles<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g4C8WK2479M/WSV-fwHQY1I/AAAAAAAACZY/cdoFG85egiAvcThNgTlvAae4KWRIFmUJgCLcB/s1600/Leaving%2BCumberland.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g4C8WK2479M/WSV-fwHQY1I/AAAAAAAACZY/cdoFG85egiAvcThNgTlvAae4KWRIFmUJgCLcB/s400/Leaving%2BCumberland.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Departing Canal Place in Cumberland</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://gaptrail.org/assets/PlanATripSlices/GT_Web_PlanATrip_ElevationChart-a93a1e8b136d4c8f0449180676316a86.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="399" data-original-width="800" height="316" src="https://gaptrail.org/assets/PlanATripSlices/GT_Web_PlanATrip_ElevationChart-a93a1e8b136d4c8f0449180676316a86.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo from Great Allegheny Passage</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The ride up the mountain, while not difficult, is relentless. Unlike most hills, there is no break. You are climbing, and climbing, and climbing.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7vRzBHLiRNE/WStiJkeaeoI/AAAAAAAACfA/e7PZ76avaBom5ROyIc5jk0Q5MSv1fpmDQCLcB/s1600/DSCF0029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7vRzBHLiRNE/WStiJkeaeoI/AAAAAAAACfA/e7PZ76avaBom5ROyIc5jk0Q5MSv1fpmDQCLcB/s320/DSCF0029.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Along the way, you get to ride through tunnels:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FhuRJYjLHao/WSthYN9zhWI/AAAAAAAACe0/TOCOkYW1Pkwat9xPw87io-J0q4jPO_0qwCLcB/s1600/DSCF0037%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FhuRJYjLHao/WSthYN9zhWI/AAAAAAAACe0/TOCOkYW1Pkwat9xPw87io-J0q4jPO_0qwCLcB/s320/DSCF0037%25281%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
And see some great views...<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y2-3Bl_GIJ4/WSthrByjHTI/AAAAAAAACe4/MOowpml2HvYD_sxg47HpYzxRbtiELmGKgCLcB/s1600/DSCF0033.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="879" data-original-width="1600" height="175" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y2-3Bl_GIJ4/WSthrByjHTI/AAAAAAAACe4/MOowpml2HvYD_sxg47HpYzxRbtiELmGKgCLcB/s320/DSCF0033.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
But, after a bit of time, we made it to Frostburg...16 miles up...7 miles to climb...in good spirits!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HvePYPEzUMY/WSWaoGsWLDI/AAAAAAAACZo/Lk6nwnd-XG4lKsSZIgGmNfOG1unjBHcEwCLcB/s1600/Frostburg%2B-%2BGregg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HvePYPEzUMY/WSWaoGsWLDI/AAAAAAAACZo/Lk6nwnd-XG4lKsSZIgGmNfOG1unjBHcEwCLcB/s320/Frostburg%2B-%2BGregg.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NrRdy0Dpd0k/WSWapoi0VZI/AAAAAAAACZs/_B1bPLQgtsUg_PwQUHT3eb4B4_EWBsd7ACLcB/s1600/Frostburg%2BBrian.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NrRdy0Dpd0k/WSWapoi0VZI/AAAAAAAACZs/_B1bPLQgtsUg_PwQUHT3eb4B4_EWBsd7ACLcB/s320/Frostburg%2BBrian.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-djEOEgR0cAs/WSWasPIW_rI/AAAAAAAACZw/yCpfd9Jt3AUZpdTgldIvCbC9xfW1wpRNgCLcB/s1600/Frostburg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-djEOEgR0cAs/WSWasPIW_rI/AAAAAAAACZw/yCpfd9Jt3AUZpdTgldIvCbC9xfW1wpRNgCLcB/s320/Frostburg.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
After a well deserved break - we used the strategy of getting to:<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Mason/Dixon Line</li>
<li>Top of Big Savage Mountain</li>
<li>Eastern Continental Divide</li>
</ul>
<div>
First Stop...Mason Dixon Line!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zm8_m7BE9As/WSWc123EhSI/AAAAAAAACZ8/iLDt_nCCG9AvT2Rz1sCdINP1wRvjZeTwgCLcB/s1600/Shawn%2BGregg%2BBrian%2BMason%2BDixon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="540" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zm8_m7BE9As/WSWc123EhSI/AAAAAAAACZ8/iLDt_nCCG9AvT2Rz1sCdINP1wRvjZeTwgCLcB/s320/Shawn%2BGregg%2BBrian%2BMason%2BDixon.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rNEnnu0cvD4/WSXLMaszwdI/AAAAAAAACaU/Kh-gV3SpbKoyQKMSFEfPbmyHv1N07ZY1gCLcB/s1600/Mason%2BDixon%2BLine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rNEnnu0cvD4/WSXLMaszwdI/AAAAAAAACaU/Kh-gV3SpbKoyQKMSFEfPbmyHv1N07ZY1gCLcB/s320/Mason%2BDixon%2BLine.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Then...the top of Big Savage Mountain<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iByd9Vx6tgc/WScyixYvlOI/AAAAAAAACas/l6sI5nCv7pUfWLJXmh6zqHh854qnuEGCACLcB/s1600/Shawn%2Bbig%2Bsavage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iByd9Vx6tgc/WScyixYvlOI/AAAAAAAACas/l6sI5nCv7pUfWLJXmh6zqHh854qnuEGCACLcB/s320/Shawn%2Bbig%2Bsavage.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zu7EyKokAaU/WStg4IIyCEI/AAAAAAAACes/o35dNpCsTyoHatGCiMhILgx2gVXCyQROQCLcB/s1600/DSCF0052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zu7EyKokAaU/WStg4IIyCEI/AAAAAAAACes/o35dNpCsTyoHatGCiMhILgx2gVXCyQROQCLcB/s320/DSCF0052.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div>
<br />
And after a ride through the Big Savage Tunnel...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y0bZtvj1Jik/WStigyt4kMI/AAAAAAAACfE/8TCILMPbwqYbVaKDQdiTKoht058GCmRqQCLcB/s1600/DSCF0054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y0bZtvj1Jik/WStigyt4kMI/AAAAAAAACfE/8TCILMPbwqYbVaKDQdiTKoht058GCmRqQCLcB/s320/DSCF0054.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
...we reached the Eastern Continental Divide!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nrXvhWhZLkQ/WSczMlEPkKI/AAAAAAAACa0/l6hkdb8W_NwR5HBGMWVOG9FjrmxSiUXiwCLcB/s1600/Ayleen%2B-%2BDivide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nrXvhWhZLkQ/WSczMlEPkKI/AAAAAAAACa0/l6hkdb8W_NwR5HBGMWVOG9FjrmxSiUXiwCLcB/s400/Ayleen%2B-%2BDivide.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hAHfW8o-7JE/WSczXMQVeYI/AAAAAAAACa8/V8gqAuopLIwpsM6K13vB7Nq-yGEBvWcWQCLcB/s1600/Laurie%2B-%2BDivide%2521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hAHfW8o-7JE/WSczXMQVeYI/AAAAAAAACa8/V8gqAuopLIwpsM6K13vB7Nq-yGEBvWcWQCLcB/s400/Laurie%2B-%2BDivide%2521.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wh1dT8bfWm0/WStjvJ6PsSI/AAAAAAAACfU/AUxO-cyCOPI_K2dfdELgW8i0egCIYJiCACLcB/s1600/DSCF0067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wh1dT8bfWm0/WStjvJ6PsSI/AAAAAAAACfU/AUxO-cyCOPI_K2dfdELgW8i0egCIYJiCACLcB/s320/DSCF0067.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RY7fjRtqWZY/WSczOqtaO_I/AAAAAAAACa4/Gr2yRF-gqnM18G2xpDFXS-b-8kAvisd6gCEw/s1600/Divide%2521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RY7fjRtqWZY/WSczOqtaO_I/AAAAAAAACa4/Gr2yRF-gqnM18G2xpDFXS-b-8kAvisd6gCEw/s640/Divide%2521.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
After the divide - it was good to start riding downhill! Next stop...Meyersdale!<br />
<br />
<br />
Here's a picture of the train station in Meyersdale:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-droDdOuvCq4/WStjGBzw8DI/AAAAAAAACfM/Pk6GF_AoBTYlspty0nVLiV5R-mAeR20fgCLcB/s1600/b84e90007a42277ccb83ac8abbba0393.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="600" height="168" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-droDdOuvCq4/WStjGBzw8DI/AAAAAAAACfM/Pk6GF_AoBTYlspty0nVLiV5R-mAeR20fgCLcB/s320/b84e90007a42277ccb83ac8abbba0393.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
It was after 2 p.m, and after we all regrouped, we were in search of food. Some of the group had ice cream at the train station - while others found Fox's Pizza Den and Sheetz (or both 😜). After refueling, off to the Salisbury Viaduct. (BTW - the viaduct is 1,908 feet long, according to Wikipedia).<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s8ahhcT4fNU/WStje5GGlfI/AAAAAAAACfQ/6JPj2os49R0_rDephX9jJNgjlO-m_3F3ACLcB/s1600/DSCF0079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s8ahhcT4fNU/WStje5GGlfI/AAAAAAAACfQ/6JPj2os49R0_rDephX9jJNgjlO-m_3F3ACLcB/s320/DSCF0079.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gaZsb1fV8as/WSc1rIKk0nI/AAAAAAAACbM/za0BG8ItTfMUrSh_8vS8ESBMusjWsufQgCLcB/s1600/Sailsbury%2BViaduct.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gaZsb1fV8as/WSc1rIKk0nI/AAAAAAAACbM/za0BG8ItTfMUrSh_8vS8ESBMusjWsufQgCLcB/s320/Sailsbury%2BViaduct.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NI1V_u7qYKM/WSc35gsmBBI/AAAAAAAACbY/kyIZaku3b1I82An3TWUyZpW4UL-38v4wgCLcB/s1600/Yoga%2Bon%2Bthe%2BViaduct.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NI1V_u7qYKM/WSc35gsmBBI/AAAAAAAACbY/kyIZaku3b1I82An3TWUyZpW4UL-38v4wgCLcB/s320/Yoga%2Bon%2Bthe%2BViaduct.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
After stretching, relaxing, etc. it was the final push to Rockwood, where we called it a day.<br />
<br />
In Rockwood, some of the group spent the night at a bed and breakfast, while others (myself included), stayed at The Hostel on Main.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-o/05/ee/9b/cd/hostel-on-main.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-o/05/ee/9b/cd/hostel-on-main.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo from Trip Advisor</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Hostel on Main is an inexpensive place to stay the night in Rockwood. It's slightly more expensive than Husky Haven Campground, but less expensive than the bed and breakfast. Those of us who were staying at the hostel showered, unwound a bit, and then...off to dinner...at Rock City Cafe...home of the TNT Burger!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sSrOxDbhqFw/WSc62x6mjZI/AAAAAAAACbk/gMQoVGxSgcQdCBMQngjyQYGN0hP6-EZzQCLcB/s1600/TNT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="1440" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sSrOxDbhqFw/WSc62x6mjZI/AAAAAAAACbk/gMQoVGxSgcQdCBMQngjyQYGN0hP6-EZzQCLcB/s400/TNT.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">TNT! 8 oz burger, 3 cheeses, ketchup, mustard, mayo, lettuce, tomato, <br />
onions, pickles, fries, and slaw on a toasted bun!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
After we all ate delicious food and drank refreshing cold beverages, it was back to the hostel. When we got to the hostel, we met Yuki! Yuki was in the middle of riding from Washington DC to Pittsburgh on a bikepacking trip. After a few nights of camping, Yuki decided that he wanted a bed for the night, so he checked into the hostel. When he got to the main room of the hostel, I'll bet he was surprised to see Laurie leading our entire group in yoga!<br />
<br />
<b>Friday May 19: Rockwood to Connellsville</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
This is probably the most beautiful day of the ride as you descend gradually in the Laurel Highlands, with stops in Confluence and Ohiopyle before wrapping up the day in Connellsville. We also spent a good amount of time biking with Yuki as well!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AL3NxGtC48M/WSdiHzBp79I/AAAAAAAACb0/fjSmt158Q7sOzafx3wislHRPkBF6ziBUQCLcB/s1600/Laurie%2Band%2BYuki.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AL3NxGtC48M/WSdiHzBp79I/AAAAAAAACb0/fjSmt158Q7sOzafx3wislHRPkBF6ziBUQCLcB/s400/Laurie%2Band%2BYuki.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jVLPb4Gr-Q0/WStlkkuFukI/AAAAAAAACfs/vPEe70ytOOAZaT7D-vWyxkfTMAGOHRqYACLcB/s1600/GAP%2BRide.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jVLPb4Gr-Q0/WStlkkuFukI/AAAAAAAACfs/vPEe70ytOOAZaT7D-vWyxkfTMAGOHRqYACLcB/s320/GAP%2BRide.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-go1TWkXCIN8/WStlsAInT7I/AAAAAAAACfw/j_IyDnk1NHkPAfCgfZoAPT0wvwWnvoexACLcB/s1600/DSCF0123.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-go1TWkXCIN8/WStlsAInT7I/AAAAAAAACfw/j_IyDnk1NHkPAfCgfZoAPT0wvwWnvoexACLcB/s320/DSCF0123.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><br /></b>The beauty of this section is just remarkable - I wish I would have taken more pictures, but I was having trouble with my camera phone (my lens cracked.) In addition to Ohiopyle, this section goes through the Pinkerton Tunnel, with a bridge before the tunnel and a bridge after the tunnel as the Castleman River makes a bend.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Sd6aUS3kJx4/WSdkbakr4yI/AAAAAAAACcA/G3XWwcdiBi036rQ1ADM6W9LhlHkRJg2jgCLcB/s1600/18738656_1310124429108906_4362028514216481655_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Sd6aUS3kJx4/WSdkbakr4yI/AAAAAAAACcA/G3XWwcdiBi036rQ1ADM6W9LhlHkRJg2jgCLcB/s320/18738656_1310124429108906_4362028514216481655_o.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VUHrcXx1uyQ/WSdkyTSZJ7I/AAAAAAAACcE/Jrv1TFr0rCoOiDpuLMem8xFue81FQpCvACLcB/s1600/18739955_1310124752442207_4902598823275666376_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VUHrcXx1uyQ/WSdkyTSZJ7I/AAAAAAAACcE/Jrv1TFr0rCoOiDpuLMem8xFue81FQpCvACLcB/s320/18739955_1310124752442207_4902598823275666376_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r7zwHs6Qh-A/WSdk0h2eP_I/AAAAAAAACcI/OmJcuC5hJj41Vd0SLDQmeVcqJX67MiXUQCLcB/s1600/18700753_1310125059108843_4543209965174118909_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r7zwHs6Qh-A/WSdk0h2eP_I/AAAAAAAACcI/OmJcuC5hJj41Vd0SLDQmeVcqJX67MiXUQCLcB/s320/18700753_1310125059108843_4543209965174118909_o.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2Zqr4r9sIpU/WSdlinuLrnI/AAAAAAAACcQ/bXkUub7QVr85tXjI_z9SLEzZuqMIHCkjACLcB/s1600/18581808_10212773041390622_7394098901054975043_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2Zqr4r9sIpU/WSdlinuLrnI/AAAAAAAACcQ/bXkUub7QVr85tXjI_z9SLEzZuqMIHCkjACLcB/s320/18581808_10212773041390622_7394098901054975043_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-01nwFutsgGg/WSdmWPG34II/AAAAAAAACcY/ndFYNgMUMOACzKP70HDy23dYQFAr5a9ugCLcB/s1600/18486284_10212773042110640_346104230242981305_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="540" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-01nwFutsgGg/WSdmWPG34II/AAAAAAAACcY/ndFYNgMUMOACzKP70HDy23dYQFAr5a9ugCLcB/s320/18486284_10212773042110640_346104230242981305_n.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-npb4TVJ-TYc/WSdtUk-qQqI/AAAAAAAACc0/MOkGbqXj6wEWr7Btgq1EfvwSnrYt6n17gCLcB/s1600/18556151_10213246237497442_2983166153861707723_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-npb4TVJ-TYc/WSdtUk-qQqI/AAAAAAAACc0/MOkGbqXj6wEWr7Btgq1EfvwSnrYt6n17gCLcB/s320/18556151_10213246237497442_2983166153861707723_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lyG6V8booEo/WStl2NqVYOI/AAAAAAAACf0/7YXi_71kU_kX_azwYdBmA6j32PAcsNgBwCLcB/s1600/DSCF0129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lyG6V8booEo/WStl2NqVYOI/AAAAAAAACf0/7YXi_71kU_kX_azwYdBmA6j32PAcsNgBwCLcB/s320/DSCF0129.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eLxxMZVqVGU/WStl6UqldTI/AAAAAAAACf4/bQTzjebcYbsViPcK9GDP24x2aFNXEyDyQCLcB/s1600/DSCF0152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eLxxMZVqVGU/WStl6UqldTI/AAAAAAAACf4/bQTzjebcYbsViPcK9GDP24x2aFNXEyDyQCLcB/s320/DSCF0152.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--bCTca2QDig/WStmAf6WEOI/AAAAAAAACf8/-rRLWb1mrOEhuBz2lIrHqueIASbcHKf2ACLcB/s1600/DSCF0141.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--bCTca2QDig/WStmAf6WEOI/AAAAAAAACf8/-rRLWb1mrOEhuBz2lIrHqueIASbcHKf2ACLcB/s320/DSCF0141.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
After that scenic view, it was off to lunch in Confluence. Laurie suggested that we eat at the River's Edge Cafe in Confluence. As always, Laurie came through once again with a fantastic idea! Here was the view!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NWhZm7mO2Lk/WSdoU0guqII/AAAAAAAACck/AEcwgcPmcUUg1asSqZiAjOlLwp8WaSofACLcB/s1600/18558992_10212772876746506_7363969182327170815_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="1440" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NWhZm7mO2Lk/WSdoU0guqII/AAAAAAAACck/AEcwgcPmcUUg1asSqZiAjOlLwp8WaSofACLcB/s320/18558992_10212772876746506_7363969182327170815_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
And here was the food!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r4ThEFRp4es/WSdoc3S4DCI/AAAAAAAACco/WkjMfbgmZ60EtjdvbFGM4Fd_2pYHryaeACLcB/s1600/18556843_10212773290116840_795422339828097890_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="1440" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r4ThEFRp4es/WSdoc3S4DCI/AAAAAAAACco/WkjMfbgmZ60EtjdvbFGM4Fd_2pYHryaeACLcB/s320/18556843_10212773290116840_795422339828097890_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, that's Grilled Cheese and Avocado!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JggS-UrBWI0/WStkwqygHJI/AAAAAAAACfg/5x1v3Q1-xHMCIG4EQdzL9GuVT7t_ikxZACLcB/s1600/IMG_0853.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JggS-UrBWI0/WStkwqygHJI/AAAAAAAACfg/5x1v3Q1-xHMCIG4EQdzL9GuVT7t_ikxZACLcB/s320/IMG_0853.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After lunch, it was off to Ohiopyle!<br />
<br />
On the way to Ohiopyle, we came upon some high school students who were celebrating Senior Skip Day. One of these students wiped out her bike pretty bad. She was wearing a dress, and skinned both of her knees and elbows. Fortunately between three first aid kits (mine, Ayleen, and Nancy) we were able to get her cleaned up and bandaged. I mention this because I think it is important to have a first aid kit and extra fluids when biking in case of an accident. When I bike the GAP, I carry one gallon of fluid with me: 2 bottles of water, 1 bottle of Gatorade, and 1 bottle of Pedialyte. When it is very hot, my body handles Pedialyte better. In addition to patching up this young lady (she had several friends with her), she didn't have any fluids with her - so I left the Pedialyte with her to make sure she was hydrated and OK.<br />
<br />
As we approached Ohiopyle, the clouds began to get dark. So far, we had not hit any rain, and we were hoping that the rain would stay away. Right as we pulled into Ohiopyle, the rains hit...and we parked the bikes and dashed into the store for some yummy Hershey's ice cream.<br />
<br />
After ice cream, it was time to take in the beauty of Ohiopyle!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KcfQfoGXnFc/WStk75HhyXI/AAAAAAAACfk/PXccX4BDCAACk6Z4VdmIszaeikcQhJ63QCLcB/s1600/DSCF0133.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KcfQfoGXnFc/WStk75HhyXI/AAAAAAAACfk/PXccX4BDCAACk6Z4VdmIszaeikcQhJ63QCLcB/s320/DSCF0133.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SXgrfoVzzV8/WSdtX0ulNDI/AAAAAAAACc4/jsKBRFU6Qo0Phuq5i3_TjTI9aO24mq4rgCLcB/s1600/18620868_1310123992442283_2070393826914523906_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SXgrfoVzzV8/WSdtX0ulNDI/AAAAAAAACc4/jsKBRFU6Qo0Phuq5i3_TjTI9aO24mq4rgCLcB/s320/18620868_1310123992442283_2070393826914523906_o.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vxsOHrUFFO0/WSduCYJoynI/AAAAAAAACdE/4HiYE1ExgKQyGhtjsh9rGVEwKfhay2XqACLcB/s1600/18581585_10213246237457441_6082152025483909297_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vxsOHrUFFO0/WSduCYJoynI/AAAAAAAACdE/4HiYE1ExgKQyGhtjsh9rGVEwKfhay2XqACLcB/s320/18581585_10213246237457441_6082152025483909297_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The rain stayed away and we got closer to Connellsville. As we got close to Connellsville, Laurie stopped at a waterfall and decided to get wet:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C7x_t1pGGoU/WSdu5fNJMJI/AAAAAAAACdQ/kJAzzK6v0fUTE_-ljWB9Bs8rM-2TGMBMgCLcB/s1600/18671471_1310123639108985_8502945827081550182_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C7x_t1pGGoU/WSdu5fNJMJI/AAAAAAAACdQ/kJAzzK6v0fUTE_-ljWB9Bs8rM-2TGMBMgCLcB/s320/18671471_1310123639108985_8502945827081550182_o.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O1NqFX73Spw/WStlWKycSxI/AAAAAAAACfo/eU_qHMvVXUYtylZWmWyw3c7Ndfnvy_93ACLcB/s1600/DSCF0147.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O1NqFX73Spw/WStlWKycSxI/AAAAAAAACfo/eU_qHMvVXUYtylZWmWyw3c7Ndfnvy_93ACLcB/s320/DSCF0147.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Me...not so much...that May mountain water was COLD!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dfWLc-eMdHc/WSdtdCWqQuI/AAAAAAAACc8/htc_r_D-p9ABPuqSiG2d-kg0GOZimBDKACLcB/s1600/18620371_10213246237417440_8104287320018010974_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dfWLc-eMdHc/WSdtdCWqQuI/AAAAAAAACc8/htc_r_D-p9ABPuqSiG2d-kg0GOZimBDKACLcB/s320/18620371_10213246237417440_8104287320018010974_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
After playing around in the waterfall it was the race to Connellsville, before the rains came. We just made it in :-)<br />
<br />
Again, our group decided on different lodging. Some stayed at a bed and breakfast; others at the Cobblestone Inn. I stayed at the Cobblestone.<br />
<br />
The Cobblestone is RIGHT ON THE TRAIL. It's a brand new hotel and it is nice. Comfortable beds, large rooms, good continental breakfast, etc. That being said, there is not a bike wash station at the hotel. For a hotel that caters to bicyclists, that's an issue. My bike was muddy from the ride due to the earlier rain. The hotel did provide a bucket and rag, and I used my squirt bottle to get the worst of the mud off...but not the same as a hose. I did mention this to the clerk, and in my review of the Cobblestone on Trip Advisor, I gave kudos for the nice rooms, but mentioned the lack of a bike wash station. Hopefully they will get that fixed soon :-)<br />
<br />
At the front desk of the Cobblestone, we asked about dinner recommendations. The clerk suggested Ruvo's Italian Restaurant. Italian sounded good after a long day of biking.<br />
<br />
Ruvo's is a small restaurant in Connellsville. I didn't think to make reservations, but the owner worked us in. Ruvo's is a BYOB establishment; but the liquor store is very close if one desires a bottle of wine, and there is a bar next door if you want a cold beer. (For the record - I had root beer at Ruvo's). Dinner is served family style, and the owner came out and talked to us to ensure we ordered the right amount of food. As the owner pointed out, we weren't in a position for leftovers. So we ordered spaghetti and two chicken dishes, which also came with pasta, and homemade meatballs. Folks, this did not disappoint.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_TmvXog2Zek/WSd1W8CiBgI/AAAAAAAACdg/M5js_t5sjkUSYV7-DYKPOjDOMLcE7u4ggCLcB/s1600/18527457_10212777209334818_872149377065449979_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="1440" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_TmvXog2Zek/WSd1W8CiBgI/AAAAAAAACdg/M5js_t5sjkUSYV7-DYKPOjDOMLcE7u4ggCLcB/s320/18527457_10212777209334818_872149377065449979_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
After stuffing ourselves with delicious food - it was time to call it a night, and get ready for the final day!<br />
<br />
<b>Saturday May 20: Connellsville to Pittsburgh!</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Jeff and Nancy said good bye to us on Friday night as they had commitments back home. They were sad that they couldn't finish, and vowed to come back to finish the ride.<br />
<br />
Day 3 is the longest day of the ride, 59 miles. Why have the longest day last?<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Day 2 from Rockwood to Connellsville is IMHO, the most scenic</li>
<li>Day 2 is a good recovery day from climbing Big Savage Mountain</li>
<li>Most of the final 16 miles of the GAP from Boston to Pittsburgh are paved - so it's an easier and faster ride.</li>
</ul>
<div>
That being said, Day 3 also has the longest stretch between towns. It's 22 miles between Connellsville and West Newton. We also knew that we would be leaving the Laurel Highlands and heading towards urban trails in Pittsburgh, especially after West Newton.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We took off from Connellsville for the ride to West Newton. We started to see the Laurel Highlands fade away...</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4pICHPjQz9s/WSd6BR_L_gI/AAAAAAAACds/HOYoHLHYGpgX62L1-eYLjS_iqujmcH49wCLcB/s1600/18557163_10212782546508244_6867667434208947067_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4pICHPjQz9s/WSd6BR_L_gI/AAAAAAAACds/HOYoHLHYGpgX62L1-eYLjS_iqujmcH49wCLcB/s320/18557163_10212782546508244_6867667434208947067_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span id="goog_342383032"></span><span id="goog_342383033"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4O8msP4tGzI/WSd6gYd8dVI/AAAAAAAACd0/Zor27Lh33QY0GPl9BTsE1nMalSgSNiKkgCLcB/s1600/18519814_10212782545548220_9095599685485930085_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4O8msP4tGzI/WSd6gYd8dVI/AAAAAAAACd0/Zor27Lh33QY0GPl9BTsE1nMalSgSNiKkgCLcB/s320/18519814_10212782545548220_9095599685485930085_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
And we arrived in West Newton...and proceeded to fuel up for lunch at the Trailside Inn!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tEUUrhUnPQk/WSd64Iuy83I/AAAAAAAACd4/tP2rLFBK1cwTuC4od9XFUsmpNUeCBWlkQCLcB/s1600/18527108_10212783453210911_4026269330971910603_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="1440" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tEUUrhUnPQk/WSd64Iuy83I/AAAAAAAACd4/tP2rLFBK1cwTuC4od9XFUsmpNUeCBWlkQCLcB/s320/18527108_10212783453210911_4026269330971910603_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
After the Trailside, the final push to the finish!<br />
<br />
When we got to Boston...the trail changed from crushed limestone to pavement. There's also a bit of a hill as you leave Boston, and prepare to go to McKeesport.<br />
<br />
Once we hit McKeesport and the trail began to follow the Monongahela River, we knew we were getting close. The trail became very urban, and we passed through abandoned steel properties and revitalized waterfront property. After passing through Homestead we soon gathered at the Hot Metal Bridge...and then realized...the end was near!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-keb2sK8E2-c/WStmm4kZFcI/AAAAAAAACgE/9R8t9Qrn4LQGxKQwuk4nzgK12tSek4nPwCLcB/s1600/18739173_10213305570220723_7968769051438330606_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="725" data-original-width="993" height="291" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-keb2sK8E2-c/WStmm4kZFcI/AAAAAAAACgE/9R8t9Qrn4LQGxKQwuk4nzgK12tSek4nPwCLcB/s400/18739173_10213305570220723_7968769051438330606_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
The five of us rode together as a tight group on the final part of the Great Allegheny Passage as we approached downtown Pittsburgh.<br />
<br />
And then...Point State Park!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-weeaZMGsfnI/WStnXmBKBvI/AAAAAAAACgc/kRFFOLfNNC837Rw_KcZaWDMhu9l4VjyoQCLcB/s1600/DSCF0167.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-weeaZMGsfnI/WStnXmBKBvI/AAAAAAAACgc/kRFFOLfNNC837Rw_KcZaWDMhu9l4VjyoQCLcB/s320/DSCF0167.JPG" width="320" /></a> </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f3TVWB_0NPE/WStnKQ5MteI/AAAAAAAACgM/tcFhyAw9gNAA4e7WpuuoC-XcUAYHVkwlwCLcB/s1600/18623688_10212795839520561_5360456849363314143_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="995" data-original-width="979" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f3TVWB_0NPE/WStnKQ5MteI/AAAAAAAACgM/tcFhyAw9gNAA4e7WpuuoC-XcUAYHVkwlwCLcB/s320/18623688_10212795839520561_5360456849363314143_o.jpg" width="314" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lpqFejA8oAw/WStnO8Y_vII/AAAAAAAACgQ/5wgF6rsPCjA7igM7SVVwyl66vyWEnDppwCLcB/s1600/DSCF0162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lpqFejA8oAw/WStnO8Y_vII/AAAAAAAACgQ/5wgF6rsPCjA7igM7SVVwyl66vyWEnDppwCLcB/s320/DSCF0162.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gf6_02Vh56Q/WStnSCVOgBI/AAAAAAAACgU/jg_h70i0OwMQ4e-jyX3MAPxof1Ib5o8dwCLcB/s1600/DSCF0164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gf6_02Vh56Q/WStnSCVOgBI/AAAAAAAACgU/jg_h70i0OwMQ4e-jyX3MAPxof1Ib5o8dwCLcB/s320/DSCF0164.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MQ0CmQ_3mFI/WStnT38OiQI/AAAAAAAACgY/7iJrz36B2FoKPW0B_Uyyg_PbGAvlryLqgCLcB/s1600/Gregg%2BGAP%2BRide.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MQ0CmQ_3mFI/WStnT38OiQI/AAAAAAAACgY/7iJrz36B2FoKPW0B_Uyyg_PbGAvlryLqgCLcB/s320/Gregg%2BGAP%2BRide.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After arriving at the Point for the mandatory pictures, it was time for the ride to the Strip District and the obligatory stop at Pittsburgh's very own Primanti Bros.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CP8X9sxxXl0/WStoeQqZckI/AAAAAAAACgo/soWLJb0NxM8U_iGtqz90rtmqeG1kmY3rQCLcB/s1600/18620979_10212786470126332_5816513553736293912_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="1440" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CP8X9sxxXl0/WStoeQqZckI/AAAAAAAACgo/soWLJb0NxM8U_iGtqz90rtmqeG1kmY3rQCLcB/s320/18620979_10212786470126332_5816513553736293912_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Stories were told, hugs were exchanged...but after that, it was time...time to return to the real world...with memories cherished...and a sense of accomplishment. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Sunday May 21</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9nKI7GhID8s/WStpJ11QJ_I/AAAAAAAACgw/slaYJehYZwU1bMY9yyhFmQMoAcneCTeSQCLcB/s1600/18582333_10212797424760191_5707082587515084379_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="540" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9nKI7GhID8s/WStpJ11QJ_I/AAAAAAAACgw/slaYJehYZwU1bMY9yyhFmQMoAcneCTeSQCLcB/s320/18582333_10212797424760191_5707082587515084379_n.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I spent the day visiting my mother. I grew up in Rochester, PA, about 25 miles northwest of Pittsburgh. After a day with her and family, it was back to the Amtrak train station...and back to reality...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b> </b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b> </b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b> Closing Thoughts</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This is the third time I've biked the GAP. I did it two years ago with the Boy Scouts as an adult leader; last summer I biked solo from Washington DC to Pittsburgh.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b> </b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This time was special. My brothers Brian and Gregg joined me, along with my friends Ayleen, Jeff, Nancy, and Laurie...and we got to meet Yuki. We got to know each very well - and it was fun. Indeed, memories of a lifetime!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As many of you know, I'm active on Facebook, and some of my friends asked about going on a future trip. So...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>May 16 - 18, 2019</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
That's when I'm riding again...and if you are interested, let me know. You can reach me on Facebook, or at sambrose85@gmail.com</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'd love to have you join in the fun.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Again, special thanks for the pictures...and more importantly...the memories to Brian, Gregg, Ayleen, Jeff, Nancy, and Laurie. It was simply awesome!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Shawn </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br /></div>
Shawn Ambrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17796941060570488364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8715072511230129303.post-88762883149740789512017-05-14T20:03:00.002-04:002017-05-14T20:03:48.329-04:00GAP Week is FINALLY HERE!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JI3vEJ1b25I/WRjs19O1DrI/AAAAAAAACV0/kEcuOtEmehgrzdmw0Ksa2-Z6nN3075p4ACLcB/s1600/GAP.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JI3vEJ1b25I/WRjs19O1DrI/AAAAAAAACV0/kEcuOtEmehgrzdmw0Ksa2-Z6nN3075p4ACLcB/s400/GAP.png" width="277" /></a></div>
<br />
I've been waiting for this week for a long time. On Tuesday night I will head to Waterloo, IN, put my bike on the Amtrak Capitol Limited, and take an overnight trip to Cumberland, MD. After a pre-ride on the C&O Towpath on Wednesday, I am riding with family and friends on a 150 mile ride from Cumberland, MD to Pittsburgh, where we will finish at Point State Park.<br />
<br />
I am so excited to go!<br />
<br />
This week was a great week of riding. I rode 152 miles this week, including an 82 mile ride on Saturday. My ride on Saturday was awesome. I averaged 12.2 MPH on the ride. To compare, I rode 73 miles the previous week, and only averaged 11.6 MPH. So I'm picking up speed and endurance.<br />
<br />
I'm also getting better on the group rides as well on Tuesdays. I did a good deal of pulling the D group on our Kreager Park Ride. I averaged 13.1 MPH on the Tuesday rides.<br />
<br />
In three weeks I am going to ride in the Tour de Cure ride for the American Diabetes Association in Detroit. I planned to ride the Century, but after reviewing the recommended speeds for the Century (15 MPH), I decided to drop to the 64 mile ride. The recommended MPH for this ride is 12 MPH, which is well within my ability. I'm hoping to get in with a good group and have a great ride.<br />
<br />
I will take lots of pictures while riding the GAP! Thanks for following my blog!<br />
<br />
ShawnShawn Ambrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17796941060570488364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8715072511230129303.post-52958941423617171392017-05-07T20:21:00.000-04:002017-05-07T20:21:43.515-04:002017 weight loss...21.4 pounds!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mGRH8C4s3gE/WQ-zIsJwjhI/AAAAAAAACUc/5MVRAetrChw_OrygBsMKcAjiC884cCYKwCLcB/s1600/Shawn%2BWeight%2B050717.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mGRH8C4s3gE/WQ-zIsJwjhI/AAAAAAAACUc/5MVRAetrChw_OrygBsMKcAjiC884cCYKwCLcB/s640/Shawn%2BWeight%2B050717.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Weight loss chart from January 1 to May 7</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
One of my fitness goals for 2017 is to lose weight. I started the year at 248 pounds. I keep a chart in the bathroom where I track my weight; Sunday morning is my weigh-in day. My goal for 2017 is to be less than 200 pounds. That's an average of about a pound a week. Along the way, I have intermediate goals set up as well.<br />
<br />
One of my intermediate goals is to be at 231 pounds on May 14. I selected that day because that is the week I am leaving to ride the Great Allegheny Passage. I'm hoping of course, that the less I weigh, the easier the biking will be.<br />
<br />
This week, I weighted in at 226.6! So far, so good!My next intermediate goal is to hit 214 pounds on September 10, which is the week I plan to ride in Lorie's Lakeside Century. Summer will hopefully bring more miles on the bike, which means (hopefully) more pounds shed!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yKyROvw1p9g/WQ-1vcdZHPI/AAAAAAAACUo/ydTfgLBESLgSNfpl9SSLOIEBbUWNTSL9ACLcB/s1600/Shawn%2Bbike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yKyROvw1p9g/WQ-1vcdZHPI/AAAAAAAACUo/ydTfgLBESLgSNfpl9SSLOIEBbUWNTSL9ACLcB/s320/Shawn%2Bbike.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I've mentioned in previous blog postings that I joined 3 Rivers Velo Sport, which is the local bike club in Fort Wayne. I love riding on the Tuesday night rides. Although the rides have been a bit chilly and windy (welcome to Indiana), I've enjoyed riding with other people and learning how to ride in a paceline. The challenges I have is that I'm still working on riding in the wind, and while my fellow riders have road bikes, I ride on a hybrid. My bike is heavier...therefore more work, especially while riding into the wind.<br />
<br />
Speaking of rides, after commencement ceremonies at the University of Saint Francis on Saturday, I went on a long Saturday night ride. I had originally planned to ride long on Friday, but we had nasty rain and winds on Thursday and Friday morning. I don't mind riding in weather, but high winds AND rain is a bit much. Although it was a bit windy, I put in my long ride of the year - 73.2 miles: h<a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/974344436/overview" target="_blank">ttps://www.strava.com/activities/974344436/overview </a><br />
<br />
I'm also excited to report that I have reached my goal of raising $200 for the American Diabetes Association for the Detroit Tour deCure ride in June. Very excited for that ride, and to be helping out a great cause! Looking forward to my first century of the year! Although I've reached my goal, you can still donate to a great cause; here's the link: <a href="http://main.diabetes.org/site/TR/?px=1315747">http://main.diabetes.org/site/TR/?px=1315747</a><br />
<br />
Thanks for reading my blog. I'm amazed at the number of people who want to keep up on the adventures of a 50+ year old who is trying to lose weight!<br />
<br />
Shawn<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Shawn Ambrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17796941060570488364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8715072511230129303.post-92083183026694558552017-04-30T20:21:00.001-04:002017-04-30T20:21:11.066-04:00April Showers brings...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oJ4qc-BGCY4/WQZ8qYPIn9I/AAAAAAAACUI/NUPJUTQmMpA-hpsUu4eGL4F536fW1a5qwCLcB/s1600/Cumberland%2BGAP%2BStart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oJ4qc-BGCY4/WQZ8qYPIn9I/AAAAAAAACUI/NUPJUTQmMpA-hpsUu4eGL4F536fW1a5qwCLcB/s400/Cumberland%2BGAP%2BStart.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The Great Allegheny Passage is on my mind :-)<br />
<br />
In a little over two weeks I'll be in Cumberland, MD to ride the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP). This will be my 3rd GAP ride. In 2015, I rode the GAP with a Boy Scout Troop, and last summer, I rode from Washington DC to Pittsburgh on a 6 day solo bike packing trip. I'm looking forward to riding the GAP with two of my brothers, one of my old college friends, and some new friends I look forward to meeting.<br />
<br />
In good old Indiana, we've had a good deal of rain. I had outdoor rides on Monday and Tuesday, with a rain shortened ride on Wednesday, and three hours on the exercise bike on Saturday. The weather looks better for the coming week. I plan to go on a 65-70 mile ride Friday morning as I continue to prepare for my upcoming century ride in June.<br />
<br />
Until next week...<br />
<br />
ShawnShawn Ambrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17796941060570488364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8715072511230129303.post-6874588756549219962017-04-24T13:27:00.003-04:002017-04-24T13:27:58.205-04:00Pushing hard, getting stronger...<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t3nCGQiEArM/WP4u3EWTIQI/AAAAAAAACT4/d3aGa3oEFiI3hbueOUUneyG3YqurGMiyQCLcB/s1600/18033877_10210981312787281_1150884309183421342_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t3nCGQiEArM/WP4u3EWTIQI/AAAAAAAACT4/d3aGa3oEFiI3hbueOUUneyG3YqurGMiyQCLcB/s400/18033877_10210981312787281_1150884309183421342_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Out with 3 Rivers Velo Sport on Saturday</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e_du6xtEvk0/WP4t4eflkBI/AAAAAAAACTw/QD4sgfGtY-8Ev5JIgQC0YqeKbK03Eu3awCLcB/s1600/18118446_10212512267351434_5788755685702706833_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e_du6xtEvk0/WP4t4eflkBI/AAAAAAAACTw/QD4sgfGtY-8Ev5JIgQC0YqeKbK03Eu3awCLcB/s400/18118446_10212512267351434_5788755685702706833_n.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not a bad day on Saturday!<br /><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We're heading to the end of April. The Great Allegheny Passage Ride is a little over three weeks away, and the Tour de Cure in Detroit is just 40 days away.<br />
<br />
Indiana has a great deal of wind in the Spring, and this Spring is no exception, Rides have been windy! However, I am taking the wind in stride - knowing that these windy rides are building strength as I prepare for my ride schedule.<br />
<br />
Last week, I posted that I joined 3 Rivers Velo Sport (3RVS) is the local bicycling club. On May 1, 3RVS begins the 2017 National Bike Challenge. In order to participate, I need to track my rides on Strava. Strava is an app that keeps track of mileage, but also notes when you pause so you get your actual ride time, The challenge I face with Strava is when I bike alone, I listen to music on earbuds. My phone simply does not have enough battery power to listen to music on Pandora AND keep track of the GPS functions of Stava. May have to look into an inexpensive MP3 player...<br />
<br />
Anyhow, I had two rides on Saturday. One was 20 miles with 3RVS, the second was 40 miles on my own, Here are the links to my performance:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/953374580">https://www.strava.com/activities/953374580</a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/953626785">https://www.strava.com/activities/953626785</a><br />
<br />
<br />
This is going to be a good week. Tuesday night will be a ride with 3RVS; on Saturday, I will need to split up my long ride into two segments due to work and service commitments with my Boy Scout Troop.<br />
<br />
Finally, thanks for reading my blog. On June 3 - I am riding in the American Diabetes Association Detroit Tour De Cure Century Ride. I only need 60 more dollars to reach my fundraising goal. Please consider making a contribution, even if it's just a few dollars. Here's the link to my fundraising page:<br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/goog_223287730"><br /></a>
<a href="http://main.diabetes.org/site/TR/?px=13157476&pg=personal&fr_id=11730">http://main.diabetes.org/site/TR/?px=13157476&pg=personal&fr_id=11730</a><br />
<br />
Again, thanks for following me as I prepare for a great summer!<br />
<br />
Shawn<br />
<br />
<br />Shawn Ambrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17796941060570488364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8715072511230129303.post-74961083726159592732017-04-16T19:59:00.000-04:002017-04-16T19:59:34.224-04:00Pushing to improve...joined 3 Rivers Velo Sport!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H8bLZphnqDw/WPP8rTbXUDI/AAAAAAAACTU/FJtknaoMET0ynIrktw84LQt4lczkmAaNACLcB/s1600/Carroll%2BBike%2BRide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H8bLZphnqDw/WPP8rTbXUDI/AAAAAAAACTU/FJtknaoMET0ynIrktw84LQt4lczkmAaNACLcB/s400/Carroll%2BBike%2BRide.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carroll High School Ride </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7ClLTXceVcw/WPP8pAC8-vI/AAAAAAAACTQ/wbYkAG6-sQ8pew3DDagNeI9ta1hG84DZwCLcB/s1600/Kreager%2BBike%2BRide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="391" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7ClLTXceVcw/WPP8pAC8-vI/AAAAAAAACTQ/wbYkAG6-sQ8pew3DDagNeI9ta1hG84DZwCLcB/s400/Kreager%2BBike%2BRide.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kreager Park Ride</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
One of my cycling goals for 2016 is to ride in the Ride Across Indiana (RAIN Ride). The RAIN Ride is on July 15, 2017, and is a one day, 160 mile ride across the state of Indiana. The ride begins at 7 a.m. in Terre Haute and ends in Richmond. You have 14 hours to officially complete the ride.<br />
<br />
Obviously, I will need to put many miles on the bike to prepare. Leading up to RAIN, I am riding the Great Allegheny Passage in May, The Tour de Detroit Century Ride and the Logansport 2 Rivers on 2 Wheels Century Rides in June, and RAIN in July. In addition to miles, since RAIN is a large ride (almost 1,300 riders finished last year), I need to learn how to ride in groups.<br />
<br />
3 Rivers Velo Sport (3RVS) is the local bicycle club. I went to their first Tuesday night ride of the year at Kreager Park and rode on a C/D group ride. According to a C pace is 16/17 MPH, and a D pace is 14/15 MPH.<br />
<br />
We rode 29 miles. Indiana can be windy, with winds generally from the west. Going out, no problems. Going back, I am thankful for the riders who "tucked the rookie in :-)" and let me do some drafting in order for me to finish in one piece. My average speed was 13.11 MPH, so I guess if you round up...I'm a D rider! :-)<br />
<br />
I was so impressed with the conversations, the friendly people, etc. that I decided to join the club.<br />
<br />
On Saturday, there was another organized ride. Again, very impressed with how friendly everyone was. The A/B group went out first, then the C/D group (including me). After a few miles, when it was apparent that I was struggling to keep up with the group, a few riders dropped back and rode with me. Saturday was a very windy day (more on that in a minute). We did a 21 mile ride and I was thankful for their help (especially with the headwinds).<br />
<br />
After we got back to Carroll High School, I headed back out on the bike to put some more miles in. I rode out to Columbia City and back for a 34 mile ride. To give you an idea about the wind, here are some of my splits:<br />
<br />
Mile 15: 7:02<br />
Mile 16: 6:48<br />
Mile 17: 7:11<br />
Mile 18: 5:01<br />
Mile 19: 4:53<br />
Mile 20: 3:11<br />
<br />
You get the idea!<br />
<br />
Overall, this was a great training week. I rode 107 miles this week - and feel very good about riding the Great Allegheny Passage next month.<br />
<br />
Finally, on this Easter Sunday, my sincere wishes for a Happy Easter...and beyond!<br />
<br />
Shawn<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Shawn Ambrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17796941060570488364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8715072511230129303.post-17147772820634505332017-04-09T18:22:00.001-04:002017-04-09T18:22:37.526-04:00Has Spring finally arrived? (I hope so!)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IG1jzaoljRU/WOqt63QbI7I/AAAAAAAACSo/0LfuElmOBx4p8c0hVlbXxejKJ_qE7f6aACLcB/s1600/US%2B27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IG1jzaoljRU/WOqt63QbI7I/AAAAAAAACSo/0LfuElmOBx4p8c0hVlbXxejKJ_qE7f6aACLcB/s320/US%2B27.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tlJvb-oNwcw/WOqt8YCR4JI/AAAAAAAACSs/Fal7Nj9kvzASk65eRwwqEuIlusBPJ7iygCLcB/s1600/Wrigley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tlJvb-oNwcw/WOqt8YCR4JI/AAAAAAAACSs/Fal7Nj9kvzASk65eRwwqEuIlusBPJ7iygCLcB/s400/Wrigley.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
It's been a couple of weeks since I updated my blog. As you can see, I've been out and about :-)<br />
<br />
Last weekend (April 1) I was in Chicago for the Higher Learning Commission Annual Conference. The Higher Learning Commission accredits colleges and universities in 19 states in the United States. On Friday, I attended peer reviewer training, and Sunday - Tuesday were general sessions of the conference...which meant I was free to ride on Saturday.<br />
<br />
I took my bike with me to the conference, since I enjoy riding my bike, and went off on Saturday for a 41 mile ride. Obviously, I stopped by Wrigley Field, but also rode on the Lakefront trail, and went north and rode on the campuses of Loyola and Northwestern universities.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-69CoCYkymRw/WOqwhSPcb1I/AAAAAAAACS8/gkcoYo_xqZQK2rg2yCHG7-7lbxzwmvBkQCLcB/s1600/Northwestern.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-69CoCYkymRw/WOqwhSPcb1I/AAAAAAAACS8/gkcoYo_xqZQK2rg2yCHG7-7lbxzwmvBkQCLcB/s320/Northwestern.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ULWgLCIt6_k/WOqwfk4ciCI/AAAAAAAACS4/dGjGprXXgvMTYnpkCi4nD21qKB--cVMVwCLcB/s1600/Loyola.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ULWgLCIt6_k/WOqwfk4ciCI/AAAAAAAACS4/dGjGprXXgvMTYnpkCi4nD21qKB--cVMVwCLcB/s320/Loyola.jpg" width="180" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
As you can see from the pictures, it was a sunny day, and IT WAS NOT WINDY! It was a little brisk (in the 50's,), but I was dressed for it and enjoyed the ride.<br />
<br />
Yesterday I went out on 50 mile ride. I decided to head south from Fort Wayne to Decatur, IN. I did that to take advantage of winds from the south. I rode to Decatur into the wind, and then took advantage of the tailwind back from Fort Wayne. It was a beautiful day yesterday as well; with temperatures in the 60's. It was good to bike in shorts!<br />
<br />
My rides were:<br />
<br />
March 27 - 10 miles<br />
March 29 - 11 miles (on exercise bike - extreme heart rate interval)<br />
April 1 - 41 miles<br />
<br />
April 4 - 11 miles (on exercise bike - extreme heart rate interval)<br />
April 6 - 14 miles<br />
April 8 - 50 miles<br />
<br />
I'm looking forward to riding this week. I'm going to go on my first group ride with some members of 3 Rivers Velo Sport on Tuesday. While I like riding solo, I need to work on my speed, riding in pace lines, etc. I also plan to go on a 55 mile ride on Saturday as I work toward riding the Great Allegheny Passage May 18 - 20, and the American Diabetes Association Metro Detroit Tour de Cure Century Ride in June. Speaking of the Metro Detroit Tour de Cure...<br />
<br />
The Metro Detroit Tour de Cure Century Ride is a fundraiser. I'm trying to raise $200 for the American Diabetes Association. I'm 55% of the way to reaching my goal, and I would greatly appreciate your help. Even five dollars will move me closer to reaching my goal. Please consider donating. Here's the link:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://main.diabetes.org/site/TR/?px=13157476&pg=personal&fr_id=11730">http://main.diabetes.org/site/TR/?px=13157476&pg=personal&fr_id=11730</a><br />
<br />
Thanks for continuing to read my blog! Have a great week!<br />
<br />
Shawn <br />
<br />
Shawn Ambrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17796941060570488364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8715072511230129303.post-26705552876589961032017-03-26T09:57:00.000-04:002017-03-26T09:57:16.899-04:00Spring has arrived!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KaWu9aTX8z0/WNfFHrE6M2I/AAAAAAAACSI/ovDm4IKPrP4uGCAtmreySat0bvSFUGbIgCLcB/s1600/43.45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KaWu9aTX8z0/WNfFHrE6M2I/AAAAAAAACSI/ovDm4IKPrP4uGCAtmreySat0bvSFUGbIgCLcB/s320/43.45.jpg" width="177" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Yes, Spring has arrived - and it's about time!<br />
<br />
Overall, it was a good week to ride. I rode four times last week. Two of those rides were outside, and two were at Planet Fitness, including my weekly interval workout. Yesterday was my first long outdoor ride, as you can see above.<br />
<br />
I did an out and back from my house in Fort Wayne to Columbia City. Columbia City is west of Fort Wayne. Usually when I do an out and back to Columbia City, I know that since the prevailing winds are usually are from the west, I'll have tailwinds coming home. Well...that was not the case yesterday. The winds were 15 - 20 MPH from the east yesterday. So while that meant smooth riding on the way to Columbia City, it was challenging on the way back. Oh, did I mention that for most of the way back, it rained? I'm glad I packed a windbreaker to wear on the way back, because I needed it for sure. When I got back, my hands were cold (I wore cycling gloves with the fingers exposed), and my feet were wet, but other than that I felt good. No soreness this morning either, which is a good sign.<br />
<br />
Next weekend I'll get to do some riding in Chicago. I'm going to be in Chicago for a professional conference from Thursday evening until Tuesday, and I plan to take my bike. I enjoy riding the lakefront trail in Chicago, and plan to have a nice long ride on it on Saturday. I'll also get to visit with my niece and nephew, along with their two adorable children while I'm there.<br />
<br />
I'll close my blog entry today with a request. On June 3, I'm riding the Metro Detroit Tour deCure Century Ride for the American Diabetes Association. My goal is to raise $200, and right now, I'm at 45% of my goal. If you can, please make a donation. Here's the link to my fundraising page: <a href="http://main.diabetes.org/site/TR/?px=13157476&pg=personal&fr_id=11730">http://main.diabetes.org/site/TR/?px=13157476&pg=personal&fr_id=11730</a><br />
<br />
Have a great week - and I'll update my blog from the Windy City next week!<br />
<br />
Shawn <br />
<br />
Shawn Ambrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17796941060570488364noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8715072511230129303.post-41858759049450320282017-03-19T19:34:00.000-04:002017-03-19T19:34:45.579-04:00Welcome my son..welcome...to the machine...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eWghHkF3D50/WM8QhWGxQsI/AAAAAAAACRw/mhLkdeu76B0wLoVGp1jmf_ekSDJHXdHQwCLcB/s1600/Planet%2BFitness%2BExercise%2BBike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eWghHkF3D50/WM8QhWGxQsI/AAAAAAAACRw/mhLkdeu76B0wLoVGp1jmf_ekSDJHXdHQwCLcB/s400/Planet%2BFitness%2BExercise%2BBike.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
83 miles of biking this week, and 73 miles of it...was on this...the machine! :-)<br />
<br />
Included on my exercise bike rides was a 35 mile ride on Friday. We had another week of Indiana March Weather, which included snow, sleet, and freezing rain. However, I am cautiously optimistic that I'll get to do some riding outside this week. To ensure that I do some outside riding, I just invested in a pair of shoe covers which should arrive the coming week. I plan to do a 40 mile ride on Saturday and there is rain in the forecast. We'll try out the shoe covers if the weather forecast holds up; I want to start "going long" outside. My Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) ride is a little over eight weeks away. I feel pretty good that if I "had to" I could complete the ride now, but I want to complete the ride in comfort - and more importantly, have a good base for the summer riding season. When I rode in Lorie's Lakeside Century in September 2016, my average speed as 13.13 MPH. I'd like to significantly improve on that this summer!<br />
<br />
It is also helping my training that my weight is going down. I weighed in this morning at 228.4. In 11 weeks, I've lost 19.6 pounds...and I've hit my first goal weight. My first goal weight was 231 pounds on May 14, the week I'm going to ride the GAP (week 19 of my diet). This goal is based on losing a pound a week in 2017. I met my first goal eight weeks ahead of schedule. The next goal weight is 214 pounds on week 36 (September 10). That's the week of Lorie's Lakeside Century. When I get my weight down, I'll be flying on the bike!<br />
<br />
As we go into April, I plan to investigate the local bicycle club, Three Rivers Velo Sport. I want to push myself, and riding with others is a good way to do that. Their group rides begin in April.<br />
<br />
Hopefully when I update the blog next week, there will be more outdoor rides than rides "on the machine" as we enter into Spring! Thanks for taking time to read my blog!<br />
<br />
ShawnShawn Ambrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17796941060570488364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8715072511230129303.post-59135652753158967162017-03-12T09:49:00.000-04:002017-03-12T09:49:11.161-04:00Just another week in March...in Indiana<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iq-AeuWtxHI/WMVMRGROtkI/AAAAAAAACRM/C3FBnKxM_Q8M1WJqRetm15EET6h2nqZlQCLcB/s1600/Sailsbury%2BViaduct.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iq-AeuWtxHI/WMVMRGROtkI/AAAAAAAACRM/C3FBnKxM_Q8M1WJqRetm15EET6h2nqZlQCLcB/s400/Sailsbury%2BViaduct.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
OK, so the picture has nothing to do with Indiana. This is a picture from the Sailsbury Viaduct, taken when I rode solo from DC to Pittsburgh last year. In just a little over two months, I'll be back on the Great Allegheny Passage once again!<br />
<br />
It's March in Indiana, so as a result, the weather is in a state of flux. Between, winds, work, and a cold Saturday, all of my rides were at Planet Fitness last week. I did ride 67 miles on the exercise bike, including 30 on Saturday. The Saturday ride on the exercise bike wasn't as dreary as I thought, mainly due to watching two NCAA basketball games on the big screen while biking, while the Pandora Iron Maiden station was playing on my smartphone! With more cold and snow (yes snow) in the forecast for the coming week, it looks like Planet Fitness is in the future for a few more days.<br />
<br />
In an effort to get ready for my long rides this summer, I'm starting speed training as well. I've done two speed workouts on the exercise bike in the past two weeks. When I rode my century last year, I averaged 13.13 MPH. Want to get that up to about 15 MPH for the coming year.<br />
<br />
Oh, this week is Spring Break! I'm looking forward to a week off of work!<br />
<br />
Finally...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rUrAUV9WnpI/WMVRH7MY_uI/AAAAAAAACRc/Z48NKOva0YgaKjv-mHODbCkEAGYZNEJmACLcB/s1600/233.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rUrAUV9WnpI/WMVRH7MY_uI/AAAAAAAACRc/Z48NKOva0YgaKjv-mHODbCkEAGYZNEJmACLcB/s320/233.2.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
I put on 0.4 pounds last week.<br />
<br />
I should celebrate losing 14.8 pounds this year, but I need to be more disciplined about my eating... :-)<br />
<br />
Until next week...<br />
<br />
Shawn<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Shawn Ambrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17796941060570488364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8715072511230129303.post-80029313756897707342017-03-05T19:29:00.001-05:002017-03-05T19:29:46.594-05:00Spring Bike Tune-up, chilly rides, and other ramblings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KX3k05a1FT0/WLyo4o85xPI/AAAAAAAACQc/IFlq0heV6_4gGgrWyRvIL2Zvh7l5ww8LwCLcB/s1600/Shawn%2Bbike%2Bmarch%2B17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KX3k05a1FT0/WLyo4o85xPI/AAAAAAAACQc/IFlq0heV6_4gGgrWyRvIL2Zvh7l5ww8LwCLcB/s400/Shawn%2Bbike%2Bmarch%2B17.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Last week, I dropped off my bike at Summit City Bicycles and Fitness for the Spring Tune-Up. When I dropped it off, the mechanic told me that many things were worn out. Let's just say I'm glad I dropped it off during the pre-spring sale :-)<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>New Shift Cables</li>
<li>New Brake Cables</li>
<li>New Brake Pads</li>
<li>New Freewheel</li>
<li>New Chain</li>
<li>New Front Derralier</li>
<li>New Rear Derrailer</li>
<li>New Pedals and Clips</li>
<li>And new nuts for my water bottle to replace the ones I stripped and had a bungee cord holding together.</li>
</ul>
In essence, other than the rims, tires, and frames, I have a reconditioned bike...and it rides great! 😊<br />
<br />
The past week was a chilly week in Fort Wayne. Snow flurries, windy, etc. While I rode three days at Planet Fitness on the exercise bike, I wanted to take my bike out a ride. So on Saturday I bundled up (From toes to head: Wool Socks, compression sleeves, long underwear bottoms, biking shorts, three long shirts including a 50/50 wool/cotton shirt, a scarf, hat, and winter gloves!)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u8YJzV3Q_ss/WLyq986U2TI/AAAAAAAACQk/sw9M7Ncujfsea1kYX6KEMmj9vYIR2yiIACLcB/s1600/Shawn%2Bbundled%2Bup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u8YJzV3Q_ss/WLyq986U2TI/AAAAAAAACQk/sw9M7Ncujfsea1kYX6KEMmj9vYIR2yiIACLcB/s320/Shawn%2Bbundled%2Bup.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
When I left on Saturday, the temperature was 30 degrees, and with the wind, it felt like 20. I also had tailwinds at my back on my out and back ride, which meant it was a little chilly coming back. Despite that, I went out and had my long ride of 2017!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VCpA6vvxAKM/WLysJ8DtdRI/AAAAAAAACQw/SYnjaQN7xw0dJ51bvmPCffmvBKmnhWl3wCLcB/s1600/25.3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VCpA6vvxAKM/WLysJ8DtdRI/AAAAAAAACQw/SYnjaQN7xw0dJ51bvmPCffmvBKmnhWl3wCLcB/s320/25.3.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
Things are looking good for getting my mileage base up for this summer. My Great Allegheny Passage ride is just a little over nine weeks away, and after that I'll be gearing up to ride the RAIN Ride (Ride Across Indiana) in July. So there's going to be a good deal of riding in the future - and hopefully warmer weather too!<br />
<br />
And on a final note...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cP4zEm5ij7U/WLytIRY0MsI/AAAAAAAACQ4/ZagLuX6gAtU0MD0zvb_qx11eg1h0iiS1ACLcB/s1600/232.8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cP4zEm5ij7U/WLytIRY0MsI/AAAAAAAACQ4/ZagLuX6gAtU0MD0zvb_qx11eg1h0iiS1ACLcB/s320/232.8.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
Down 15.2 pounds since the beginning of the year!<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading my blog - comments are welcome!<br />
<br />
ShawnShawn Ambrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17796941060570488364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8715072511230129303.post-45518311279362122112017-02-26T21:18:00.000-05:002017-02-26T21:38:13.981-05:00Another good week - getting ready to ride the GAP in May!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l-drf40NRwQ/WLONpHufxbI/AAAAAAAACP0/lNxq1y8nGwMzoUqZNSUWROU7fo0EGdnNACLcB/s1600/Shawn%2527s%2Bpanniers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l-drf40NRwQ/WLONpHufxbI/AAAAAAAACP0/lNxq1y8nGwMzoUqZNSUWROU7fo0EGdnNACLcB/s320/Shawn%2527s%2Bpanniers.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MYYoQ6r6ZZU/WLONrDlwcnI/AAAAAAAACP4/yMMwbRhZugoy9BeJpo1JnpK12vmPlYE7ACLcB/s1600/233.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MYYoQ6r6ZZU/WLONrDlwcnI/AAAAAAAACP4/yMMwbRhZugoy9BeJpo1JnpK12vmPlYE7ACLcB/s200/233.2.jpg" width="112" /></a><br />
So another week has come and gone. Let's recap the week!<br />
<br />
Another good week losing weight! I dropped 1.4 pounds this week and I'm down 14.8 pounds for the month. The goal is to get to 200 pounds by the end of the year; and so far, so good (although I "cheated" today on the diet...back to Planet Fitness and the exercise bike tomorrow!)<br />
<br />
I also had a great biking week. It was a warm week through Friday, and I took advantage. My total mileage was 66 miles, and 51 were done outside. I did some riding back and forth to work (almost three miles each way), and the long ride was 17 miles. Felt good on all of my rides. Knowing that the weather was going to change on the weekend, I decided to get the bike to Summit City Cycles and Fitness for the spring tune-up. When I took it in, the mechanic noted that I wore a lot of things out. Let's see, a solo bike-packing trip from DC to Pittsburgh last year, Lorie's Lakeside Century, etc., yep, that's a lot of miles!<br />
<br />
I also purchased panniers for my Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) trip in May. I purchased the same panniers I used last year. I severely overloaded the panniers last year, but they survived the trip, and I promptly tossed them in the trash. For my GAP trip this year, I'm only riding three days, and I'm not camping, so they'll be fine.<br />
<br />
Next Saturday is the first "official" training ride for the GAP. I'm hoping that some of my Fort Wayne friends join me, not just for the training ride next week, but to ride the GAP in May. I won't call them out on my blog; but they know who they are 😉 Right now, nine people are going on the trip in May - and we are going to have fun!<br />
<br />
Until next week...<br />
<br />
ShawnShawn Ambrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17796941060570488364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8715072511230129303.post-33007713010684271212017-02-19T13:03:00.000-05:002017-02-19T13:03:27.391-05:00It's Sunny and Warm in Indiana (IN FEBRUARY) :-)<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--q9icBLYJZ4/WKnX53EhtXI/AAAAAAAACPI/uRTPijx-fXUQ4jzmBiP3IV_I5r4RH0eOQCLcB/s1600/16807159_10211868717503090_9077860724673384739_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--q9icBLYJZ4/WKnX53EhtXI/AAAAAAAACPI/uRTPijx-fXUQ4jzmBiP3IV_I5r4RH0eOQCLcB/s320/16807159_10211868717503090_9077860724673384739_n.jpg" width="180" /></a><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PEwtR7Kp7jc/WKnX3lUJoXI/AAAAAAAACPE/jKKQyWzTmikto2mD55-zf6KXpqO3jGNcQCLcB/s1600/16683835_10211875818280605_1988655683460996938_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PEwtR7Kp7jc/WKnX3lUJoXI/AAAAAAAACPE/jKKQyWzTmikto2mD55-zf6KXpqO3jGNcQCLcB/s320/16683835_10211875818280605_1988655683460996938_n.jpg" width="177" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
It's February 19, and I had the opportunity to ride outside three days because we had some nice weather!<br />
<br />
I'm fortunate because I can bike to work. If I bike to the University of Saint Francis downtown campus (where I work), it's about a 15 minute ride. From downtown to our main campus, it's about a 10 minute ride. On Tuesday and Friday I rode the bike to work, and then went for rides afterwards. My total mileage on Tuesday was 17 miles, and on Friday 20 miles.<br />
<br />
The picture of me in the bright clothes was prior to my Saturday ride. The temperatures were in the 60's, so it's time to break out the shorts. I went on a 21 mile ride out and about the Fort Wayne River Greenway, and it felt great! It's supposed to stay warm through Friday, so there will be a couple more outdoor rides this month!<br />
<br />
The scale weight shows my weight on Sunday. At the first of the year, I weighed 248 pounds, so that's 13.4 pounds since January 1. I need to take off some serious weight with the biking schedule I have this summer.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Great Allegheny Passage in May</li>
<li>Tour de Detroit Century Ride - June</li>
<li>2 Rivers on 2 Wheels Century Ride - June</li>
<li>RAIN Ride (Ride Across Indiana) - July</li>
<li>Lorie's Lakeside Century - September </li>
</ul>
<br />
If I can get down to 220 for the century rides, that would be super. The goal is to be under 200 by the beginning of 2018. That's an average of about a pound a week.<br />
<br />
Here's to the weather staying warm for a few more days!<br />
<br />
Shawn <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Shawn Ambrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17796941060570488364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8715072511230129303.post-50044438512549678312017-02-11T20:17:00.001-05:002017-02-11T20:28:10.347-05:00Riding in February!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Aibr7NJxnf0/WJ-2_-4EskI/AAAAAAAACKk/PDgPZK9KCKoJQMi02X-2qE0a33U2-aq8ACLcB/s1600/Shawn%2B1st%2Bride%2B2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Aibr7NJxnf0/WJ-2_-4EskI/AAAAAAAACKk/PDgPZK9KCKoJQMi02X-2qE0a33U2-aq8ACLcB/s320/Shawn%2B1st%2Bride%2B2017.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qvkTcP7rEw4/WJ-3Do7DtqI/AAAAAAAACKo/YcYH2GxYrKI1NCj2LazKbEX0-d8jA1cLACLcB/s1600/Shawn%2B12%2Bmiles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qvkTcP7rEw4/WJ-3Do7DtqI/AAAAAAAACKo/YcYH2GxYrKI1NCj2LazKbEX0-d8jA1cLACLcB/s320/Shawn%2B12%2Bmiles.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
It's February - and we're getting some decent weather to ride! Today the temps were in the low 50's, so it was time to take the bike out of the back room and go for the first ride of the year.<br />
<br />
I rode a little over 12 miles, from my house in a Fort Wayne neighborhood to Foster Park. My plan was to ride to Tillman Park, but the River Greenway was closed when you left Foster Park. I turned around, went through Foster Park again, and the River Greenway was closed at Jefferson Blvd, which is fairly common at this time of the year.<br />
<br />
Overall, the River Greenway is in good shape. The boardwalks were wet and in some places, had fallen leaves on them, so I took it easy on those. I also took it pretty easy for the ride. I was traveling last week and the week prior I contracted stomach flu, so I haven't been riding as much on the exercise bike as I would like. That being said, I should be able to get back into a good routine this week at Planet Fitness, and plan to ride around 15 - 16 miles outside next Saturday (the long range forecast is calling for sunshine and 50 degrees!)<br />
<br />
I'm starting to get more excited about riding the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) from Cumberland, MD to Pittsburgh in May. Hoping that time flies by. I'm very excited to ride with some friends that I've met on Facebook, along with a couple members of my family and some friends from Fort Wayne. It's going to be a great time. I know a couple of my friends are thinking about it, and I know they will enjoy the beauty of the GAP.<br />
<br />
Hoping for a better exercise week this week...<br />
<br />
ShawnShawn Ambrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17796941060570488364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8715072511230129303.post-91627348447034668432017-01-22T13:39:00.001-05:002017-01-22T13:39:20.940-05:00Just another week in JanuaryFirst off, I'll get some stuff out of the way. I had a good week on the exercise bike, biking 10 miles on Monday, with 11 mile rides on Wednesday and Friday. However, I did not have a good week on the completing the 30-minute circuit only 1 day (Tuesday). On Thursday, I took my daughter to the BMV for her driver's test (she passed!) and Saturday I spent my day with the Boy Scouts, spending the day at the Klondike Derby, with temperatures in the mid 50's!<br />
<br />
I love scouting! My two oldest sons are Eagle Scouts, and my youngest son is a Cub Scout. In a little over a year, he will cross-over to Boy Scouts, and I'm so looking forward to it. Of course, any scout outing means good eating, and last night, I had a HUGE grilled steak. I thought I was eating the side of a cow...and it was GOOD!. Bottom line, I picked up a pound last week (239.4). However, the good news is that I'm still down 8.8 pounds from the beginning of the year, and I'll take that. My goals are:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>May 14 (for Great Allegheny Passage Ride) - 231 pounds</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>September 10 (for Lorie's Lakeside Century) - 214 pounds </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>November 26 (for Pittsburgh Dirty Dozen) - 203 pounds </li>
</ul>
<br />
So for this week, I plan to get to Planet Fitness 6 days, and keep on the exercise bike for three days, and get back to the 30-minute circuit workout for three days. Once I hit one hour on the exercise bike, I'll start doing some interval work on the bike to work on some speed. I'm also looking forward to May and another ride on the Great Allegheny Passage with friends!<br />
<br />
Until next week!<br />
<br />
ShawnShawn Ambrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17796941060570488364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8715072511230129303.post-26446809400427724532017-01-15T21:27:00.000-05:002017-01-15T21:27:44.286-05:00Hello everyone!<br />
<br />
With the start of the new year, I thought I would start blogging again about my biking adventures, and life in general.<br />
<br />
I kept a blog last summer with my solo bike-packing trip from Washington DC to Pittsburgh. I want to leave that blog as a guide to anyone who wants to learn more about the Great Allegheny Passage and the C&O Towpath. If you are interested in that journey, you can check out that blog at: <a href="https://shawnambroseblog.wordpress.com/">https://shawnambroseblog.wordpress.com/</a><br />
<br />
So, a bit about me. I just turned 52, and I learned to love biking a couple of years ago after a running injury has more or less ended my running career. I've done a few bike rides, to include the Great Allegheny Passage from Cumberland to Pittsburgh with a Boy Scout Troop, the solo bike-packing trip from DC to Pittsburgh last summer, and Lorie's Lakeside Century last fall in Chesterton, IN.<br />
<br />
I'm blessed with a job that allows me a great deal of flexibility - I'm an Associate Professor of Organization and Management at the University of Saint Francis (USF) in Fort Wayne, IN. While I am not "off" for the summer, I have a very flexible schedule that allows me to do a good deal of biking.<br />
<br />
While not on the bike or at work, I'm involved with the Boy Scouts of America as an Assistant Scoutmaster for a local troop, and of course...my family. I've been married to my eternal sweetheart for over 26 years, and we have 7 children. While 2 of our children are out of the house, we still have 5 who are home, although 1 of those children goes to USF. So it is still busy at my house.<br />
<br />
OK about biking. After my century ride in September, my training fell apart. I had a very busy semester, and I did not do a good time of managing my time to work in my training. As a result, my weight went up to 248, which is the heaviest I've ever been. So I'm dieting, and resolving to be very protective of my training time, to the point of placing my training on my Outlook Calendar at work.<br />
<br />
I've been working out regularly at Planet Fitness, with 3 days on the exercise bike, and 3 days with the "30-minute workout." Right now I'm up to riding 46 minutes on the exercise bike, so I'm working my way back. I've also shed off almost 10 pounds since the beginning of the year as well.<br />
<br />
Since I tend to work better with goals - here is my 2017 biking schedule:<br />
<br />
May: Great Allegheny Passage from Cumberland to Pittsburgh (3 day trip)<br />
<br />
June: Tour de Detroit Century Ride<br />
<br />
July: RAIN (Ride Across Indiana)<br />
<br />
September: Lorie's Lakeside Century<br />
<br />
November: Pittsburgh Dirty Dozen<br />
<br />
It's going to be aggressive.<br />
<br />
So, I'll keep people up to date as I move forward, as a 52 year old man tries to get back in shape and have a great biking summer. Thanks for reading!<br />
<br />
Shawn <br />
<span style="float: left; margin: 0 0 8px 20px; width: 330px;"> </span><span style="float: left; margin: 0 0 8px 20px; width: 330px;"> </span>Shawn Ambrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17796941060570488364noreply@blogger.com0