Rasmussen Bike Shop - Home Page

BLACK FRIDAY & CHRISTMAS SPECIALS

2011-11-22T12:03:00.000-08:00

It is official we are running some BLACK FRIDAY deals, and they are posted in our E-mail newsletter. To view click on this link and we hope you have a great holiday season. Thanks!

Important Specialized Recall

2011-10-03T13:28:00.001-07:00

Specialized bicycle company has issued a recall on the following 2011 bicycles: Sirrus Expert, Sirrus comp, Sirrus Elite, Vita Expert, Vita Comp, Vita Elite, Tricross, Tricross comp, & Tricross Sport. Ir you own one of these affected bicycles, please bring it into us and we will make sure you are taken care of. sorry for any inconvenience this may cause.

As the Seasons change

2011-09-21T09:58:00.001-07:00

As the summer comes to a close, fall brings in great riding weather, and unpredictability. With low temps sometimes dipping into the low 40's in the morning it is important to be prepared for whatever mother nature throws at us. Many of the clothes that you buy right now will be very useful when Spring finally decides to show up next year. If you diecide that you don't want to hide inside on your trainer, or join a spinning class, we also have any and all gear to be comfortable no matter the temps, or how inhospitable it gets outside. We have a great selection of all the necessities, hats, gloves, booties, warm cycling shoes, socks, jackets, jerseys, under garments, fleece tights, and arm/knee warmers. No matter what the crazy Iowa weather is doing outside, and no matter the season we will make sure you are properly outfitted to take on anything. There is no better time then now to come and check out our selection of cycling apparel.

2011-06-01T18:50:00.000-07:00

2011-02-15T09:02:00.000-08:00

So what race is replacing your Hy-Vee race in early June? We have got one for you it is Leon's Triathlon, which is on the far South side of the Chicago suburbs, and claims to be the world's fastest triathlon. The event is unique in because they offer a team challenge aspect, that is not your typical team type of race, and an individual aspect to the race as well. This would be a great event to start the season and perhaps set a new season best. For more information on the race, or to register go to http://www.leonstriathlon.com/index.php

Cirrem 100k Gravel Race Feb. 26th

2011-01-18T08:17:00.000-08:00

Cirrem is a 100k gravel race that takes place south west of Des Moines on some back roads through the most pristine county in Iowa, Warren. You will need to have all your cold weather gear at the ready as Winter in Iowa can be blustery and cold. Hopefully mother nature behaves and they have a great event as they have always had this event is well run and has perhaps the best race t-shirt in the biz. Get you bikes ready and go out and have some fun in February for registration or info follow this link http://cirrem.blogspot.com/

Tour De Cure

2011-01-11T12:39:00.001-08:00

We are an official sponsor for the Tour De Cure, and will be providing bike support on the day of. This will be a great event that everyone can feel challenged with rides of various distances to choose from a 62, 50, 25, and a 10 mile ride. It is benefiting the American Diabetes Association. The event will be June 11th, at Water Works park. For more info or to register please visit http://main.diabetes.org/site/TR/TourdeCure/IowaArea?pg=entry&fr_id=7640

Winter Race series in Central Iowa

2010-12-16T08:14:00.001-08:00

Is there a better way to test out those new snow shoes, or test your skillz, then with a winter race series. There will also be some cyclo-cross racing depending on the amount of snow we have. For info visit this link
and we hope to see you out there!

We have shoes for purchase and rent this Winter

2010-11-04T09:03:00.000-07:00

This winter we will have show-shoes for purchase, and to rent from Louis Garneau. We have 3 size runs of Men's and 2 size runs of Women's Ergotrail Louis Garneau snow shoes, as well as, poles for rent. We will rent them for $12 a day for shoes, and $18 for poles and snow shoes. We will also have some nicer performance shoes in to purchase if you want something a little nicer. Once we get snow feel free to call and reserve your shoes for a great fun workout this winter. For more info on renting view our rentals page that is linked in the upper right hand corner.

Rasmussen has 4 guys at Ironman World Championships

2010-10-04T09:11:00.000-07:00

We are glad to have 4 members of the Rasmussen Triathlon team participating in this weekend's World Championship race in Hawaii. The race is Saturday if you want to track the athletes or watch live coverage of the race follow this link http://ironmanlive.com/updates.php?race=worldchampionship&year=2010. If you want to use athlete tracker, simply put in the athletes last name for up to the minute results. We have Louis Dewild, Steve Feltz, Mike Morrison, and Doug Vander Weide. Good luck to all those guys and we'll be watching.

Congrats to Rasmussen MTB team at Boon 24hr race

2010-09-09T08:54:00.000-07:00

Congrats to everyone that competed this past weekend at Boone. Once again we had some fantastic results, individually and in the team competition. We continue to show our great talent across all aspects if cycling, and are spoiled to have great customers representing our bike shop, keep up the great work.

Orbea Demo Truck at the shop 8/11

2010-08-09T15:11:00.000-07:00

The Orbea Demo truck will be here Wednesday 8/11, and will have a full stock of 2011 bicycles waiting for you to ride. This will be a great way to ride, or test, the absolutely newest bikes on the market. From mountain, road, and triathlon bikes they will have everyone covered. Don't miss your chance to ride one of the most unique bike brand currently on the market. Their bikes have a very special ride quality to them and they are something that you would be very happy with. For more info visit http://www.orbea-usa.com/

East Village Crit 8/22

2010-08-07T08:10:00.001-07:00

This will be a great family friendly event, and if your racing it will be the coolest course you race on all year. It is in the East Village area, right in front of the State Capital. Racing starts at 8 a.m. and will last pretty much the whole day. There will be something for all ages, for more information please visit this website
http://www.eastvillagecrit.com/
We'll see you 8/22!

Urban Assault Ride 8/22

2010-07-20T12:40:00.000-07:00

The Urban Assault Ride™ is a truly unique cycling event...and quickly becoming one of the biggest in country! Here's how it works: You and your teammate will set out on a city-wide quest for 'checkpoints' on your favorite two-wheeled steeds. At each checkpoint, you'll drop your bikes and complete a funky/adventurous obstacle course, then remount your bikes and hit the streets for more.

The goal is to complete all the checkpoints in the shortest amount of time. You choose your own route and checkpoint order. This means that the most clever are often the victors.

After your pedal-powered adventure, your team will cross the finish line and enter a massive celebration. For more information on signing uo check out this link http://www.urbanassaultride.com/desmoines to learn more and have some fun.

Gear up for Race Season, and Ragbrai

2010-05-17T08:34:00.000-07:00

Some of the biggest races of the season are coming up, with RAGBRAI thrown in the middle of everything. No time is better than now to come in and get those essential items you need before your big event. With bikes from the best manufacturers in cycling we've got your next bike waiting in the wings. You can easily gain comfort and efficiency by coming into the 21st century. We also have the clipless pedals, new cycling shoes, computer, aero-bars, wet-suit, helmet, and clothing to make your next ride, or race go better than imagined. Even if you are not sure of what you need, come in and pick our brain, and we'll help you make the educated and right decision on what is best for you. That is what we are here for and what we love to do. That is what we are known for, our excellent service, and knowledgeable staff that have years in the sport, that is why people drive halfway across the state to us, and that is what is expected of us. Come in and see us, and we'll make sure you leave satisfied.

Start off the new year with a New bike

2010-01-09T09:04:00.001-08:00

Right now we have great selection of 2009 and previous year's models of bikes, that can be yours' for a great price. We are also getting in our new bikes to start the year, so if you want to be riding the latest and greatest bikes come in and see what we have with selection from brands like: Raleigh, Specialized, Orbea, Diamondback, Salsa, Surly, Haro, and Quintana Roo. Now is a great time to come in pick out brains a little bit and make sure you are on the bike that fits your needs the best. So get off that couch, venture into the cold, and come down and pick out something new for you in 2010.

Cranksgiving is this Sunday

2009-11-19T10:29:00.000-08:00

Cranksgiving is going down this Sunday! Race begins at 1:00 and it should be a great event. It is for a great cause and you will have ton of fun. Bets are going down as to who will take the win, but beyond some cycling skill, it takes a little planning and execution to bring home the victory. There will be some killer giveaways including a bike, donated from us of course. The weather should be better than last year when it snowed, I thought that made it kind of cool though. Here is a link to the event blog page if you have any questions. Show up and ride hard!

Spooky Cross 2009

2009-11-02T08:40:00.000-08:00

An awesome weekend of racing at living history farms. It is such a great fall venue for anything. A great turn out by so many people who came out and raced hard possibly 2 days this weekend. The event was really well run and they had really planned so well and took everything into account before hand. It is really becoming a big midwest event, which is great. On the Rassy racing side we had a great showing by all of out guys really highlighted by Rich Wince who came in 2nd in the Cat 3 race. He has really had an outstanding season. Cross season is winding down with really one more big race left, Jingle Cross, which is at the end of this month over in Iowa City.

Congrats to our Ironman Wisconsin Finishers

2009-10-01T08:41:00.001-07:00

We had five finishers at Ironman Wisconsin, from left to right, Doug Vander weide, Steve Feltz, Mike Morrison, Ben Garrett, and Mike Collet. All finished under 11hrs, which is fantastic for the distance and the difficulty of the course. All have worked very hard this year, so it is awesome to see the tough training pay off. We are glad to be associated to all these great athletes. It was a fantastic way for our tri team to finish off a very successful season. We can't wait to see what next year brings.

Good Weekend for Rasmussen Triathlon team

2009-09-14T12:58:00.001-07:00

Ironman Wisconsin was just finished yesterday, and we had some athletes who really turned in some great times. Doug Vander Weide showed that he has conquered that distance with a great time of 9:59:15. Mike Morrison and Steve Feltz finished very close to each other, finishing with 20 seconds of one another in a little over 10 hrs and 20 minutes. Ben Garrett finally got to see his training pay off as he had a good day finishing his 1st ironman in 10:50:12. It is such a tough distance and there are so many variables that come into play so an absolutely great showing by all those athletes.

The Doathlon For Life was also this past Sunday our guys showed up in full force with Patrick Riley coming in 2nd overall, Louis Dewild finished 4th overall in his first race back from his injury, and Adam Thompson rounded out the team finishing in 6th place.

Mtb team takes care of business in Boone

2009-08-25T08:34:00.000-07:00

With great conditions, they had a great turn out for the Boone MTB race. Our team continued to show that we are usually fighting amongst each other for podium spots. Cam Kirkpatrick took home the win with Jed Gammel coming in second. John Newell came in 3rd and 1st for his age division. Jason Alread was 4th, as well as 2nd singlespeed, and Jim Logan was 6th, and second for his age divsion. Rick Blackford continued his breakout 2009 season with a 7th place finish. The next test will be in 2 weeks at the same course, but with a grueling 24hr test of will. Many of guys will continue to roll along to great finishes, and we wish everyone goodluck as they continue their race seasons.

Domination on Dirt and Road

2009-08-10T09:19:00.001-07:00

Let's start with the Mountain bike guys. Our Rasmussen Dirt squad came out in full force and showed no mercy at the Lake Ahquabi XC race on Sunday. Cam Kirkpatrick won the expert class, which did 5 circuits of the 7 mile loop. Cam won by almost eight minutes with Jed Gammell coming in 3rd, and Rasmussen's Kent Carlson coming in 5th. John Newell won the men's 45+ classification, and Rick Blackford won the Cat 2 Men's sport open. It was a tough course with plenty of climbing, so a great showing by the Rassy boys. Full Ahquabi Results

This weekend was also the Iowa games road race. It was a great race for all the guys, but most notably Rich Wince, who continues to have a dream summer. He won for the 2 lap division and Kris Kunze brought home 5th place. It has been amazing summer for our tri, road, and mtb teams, we have to have the strongest squad of athletes in Iowa. Full Iowa Games Race Results

Major weekend of racing for Rasmussen's

2009-08-04T08:32:00.000-07:00

The greatest race of the weekend was at the Big Creek Triathlon, which was a regional qualifier for age-group nationals. Mike Morrison through down probably his best race and averaged 26.8mph on the 40k bike leg. He came off the bike and had the lead and it took a crazy fast run split from Nathan White to beat him, with Mike taking second in 1:53:51. Doug Vander Weide also had a great race taking 11th place and finishing in just over 2 hours. For the Women Chris Maravelas finished in 8th place in 2:27:10 and Amy Hanrahan was 13th place in 2:28:40. Click here for full Big Creek Tri results.

Reed Rinderknecht and his wife, Kristen, each took first place overall in the Twin Lakes Sprint Triathlon.

Also, this weekend was the State Road Race Championships and our team had a great showing. Lou Waugaman took 9th place in the Cat 1/2 race. Rich Wince took 5th place for the Cat 3's in the 108 mile race in West Branch, IA. Tony Muse is the Cat 4 State Champion, so congrats to him and to all for a great showing in all disciplines over the weekend.

Rassy road team flexes their muscles at clear Lake

2009-07-13T08:49:00.001-07:00

Rich Wince won the Cat 1/2/3 Road Race, with Lou Waugaman coming in right behind him. Rich actually won the Cat 3 race and Lou took the win the Cat 1/2 race. Kris Kunze had a strong weekend finishing 3rd in the Criterium & 5th in the road race. Pete Basso had a real strong crit, but got pushed out of the sprint at the end. Also, Tony Muse took 3rd in the Cat 4 road race in his Rassmussen Bike Shop debut. All in all it was a great weekend of racing by our Death Squad. People should start to fear the black and white, with all our strong races we have had this spring and summer.

Great Weekend showing for Rasmussen Tri Team

2009-06-19T13:56:00.001-07:00

It was a wild week-end of racing and the Rassy Tri team notched some great performances on Saturday and Sunday. Rassy athlete, Mike Morrison, crushes Kansas Half Ironman and Micah Moore flies to the fastest run split in a loaded Copper Creek Tri. Mo(o)re on that later.

Saturday at the Clive running festival, Loran Storts brought home a 8^th place overall finish, running 5:57 pace for a 10k and beating up on a bunch of 20 and 30 year olds. Storts’ full week-end was finished up with a 3^rd place finish in the 40-44 year old age group and 23^rd overall at Copper Creek.

On Sunday, the fireworks were blasting away….both before and during the Copper Creek Tri. After getting thunder-stormed out last year, almost 500 participants showed up to get their Hy-Vee Triathlon tune-up. TJ Tollakson flexed his pro-triathlete muscles on the bike to take home first place overall. The Top 10 overall was stacked with some of the best elite triathletes in the Midwest and country. Nathan White finished 2^nd place, and Jason Maurice 3^rd. both of these 20-somethings have the potential to be pro’s someday as they got off the bike and tracked down 4^th place, JJ Bailey, over the 5k run.

Rassy Tri Team’s Micah Moore (former U of Colorado runner, turned Tri-Geek) finished 8^th and turned in the fastest run split on the day of 17:10. (Tollakson ran 17:58). After swimming 750 yards as hard as you can and riding 13 miles over a hilly course at threshold pace, Micah’s 5:31 per mile splits were pro-level, for sure. Rassy’s Doug Vanderweide continues to be one of the top and most versatile athletes in the country at any distance, finishing 9^th. Patrick Riley and Joel Rinderknecht turned in very solid performances, finishing 13^th and 16^th overall and 3^rd and 4^th in their age groups.

Rassy Tri-Chick, Lisa Marshall, scorched the women’s field with the fastest female run of the day and finished 3^rd overall. Amy Hanrahan took home 2^nd in the 30-34 age group.

Kansas 70.3:

About 150 Iowans made the trek down to Lawrence , Kansas for the 2^nd running of the Kansas 70.3 Half Ironman. The pro-field featured 2-time Ironman World Champions, Chrissie Wellington and Tim Deboom, the amateur field was stacked even higher and tighter. Rassy athletes, Mike Morrison, Ben Garrett, Steve Feltz, Mike and Kristin Collet, Jan Mohs, Reed and Kristin Rinderknecht, were among the 2,000 participants.

Mike Morrison is making some serious waves in 2009 already with an overall win at the Jordon Creek Duathlon and a 3^rd place overall finish at the Pigman Sprint, came out of the gate charging from the start and finished strong in a personal best, 4 hours and 12 minutes, 4^thplace overall amateur and 2^nd in his age group to the number 1 ranked (35-39 year old) triathlete in the country, Tim Hola, from Colorado. Reed Rinderknecht finished 5^th in the 35-39 age group in 4:29. Coming out of the water in 11^th place (Morrison) and 9^th place (Rinderknecht) the two worked themselves into the top 5 with strong bike performances over the tough 56 mile time trial. Morrison’s 1 hour 24 minute run vaulted him into his Top 5 overall podium finish.

Mike Collet (4:37) made the largest jump in the 35-39 age group coming from 44^th out of the swim to 9^th off the bike and 8^th at the finish line. Ben Garrett’s, 4:35, was good for 14^th in the blazing fast 25-29 year-old age group and Steve Feltz, 4:36, worked his way up from 20^th position in the swim to 6^th position at the finish line in the 45-49 year old age group.

Jan Mohs took first in her age group, crushing the 2^nd place finisher by 33 minutes. Kristin Rinderknecht grabbed 12^th in the 35-39 female category and Kristin Collett 17^th in her age group.

Let’s bring home some hardware at Hy-Vee on Sunday, June 28^th! We’d love to see the rest of the Rassy Racing team on the Fuller hill as we suffer running up!

All Tri Bikes 15% off

2009-06-11T08:50:00.000-07:00

Save on all in stock Quintana Roo, Orbea, and Specialized triathlon bikes. We have plenty of sizes of each bike in stock ranging in price from $1599 to $8500. With tri season upon us it is time to maybe buy a little speed and improve your bike splits this summer. How many of have seen a nice tri bike fly past you during a race, and thought, "Man I wish I had one of those!" Well there is no better time than now. We only have select sizes, so be sure to take advantage of this deal before it is too late.

Steve Fuller Has A Great Race at the Dirty Kanza 200

2009-06-04T07:43:00.000-07:00

Finish. One simple word with many meanings. 85 people started the 2009 Dirty Kanza 200. The Flint Hills topography, the 90+ degree heat, and the headwinds all combined to finish off 70 of the starters at various points along the route. In the end, only 15 people were able to cross the finish line.

Leg 1 - 61 miles

After a few final words, and a warning or two from this year's host, Jim Cummins, 85 riders rolled out of Emporia, KS at 6 AM towards the town of Cottonwood Falls. After a neutral start through town, my legs and bike were feeling good, so I sat in with the lead group of 30 to gauge how the day was going to go. The group motored along at a solid 20+ MPH or so until the first climb. After the climb a group of 10 riders were headed off, leaving the rest of us to pick up the pieces and reassess the day's goals. I settled into a comfortable rhythm and started grinding out the miles. Occasionally, the comfort of "the zone" was punctured by the appearance of a video crew passing to set up for the next shot. At mile 30, I turned south only to discover a rock had cut my sidewall. I swapped out the tube and got back up to pace. A few cold water crossings and I settled into "the zone" for the rest of the leg. I arrived at checkpoint 1 in 23rd place. I booted the tire with a dollar bill, refueled, took some Aleve for my back, and hit the road about close to 11 AM

Leg 2 - 42 miles.

This started with a long steady climb out of town, followed by a screaming fast descent and some river flats into the town of Elmdale. The Aleve was kicking in and I settled back into "the zone". Nothing really notable in this section. We followed the twists, turns and rolling hills northwest along Diamond Creek Road for about 15 miles until we turned back northeast for the final push into the town of Council Grove, KS at mile 103 or so. I started standing on anything but the most shallow climbs and it made a huge difference in my speed and how my back felt for the rest of the race. I made the checkpoint around 2:30 PM and immediately took a peek at my rear tire. The dollar bill had worn through and more of the tube was pushing through the hole in the sidewall. While I went to work on a Gu packet tire boot another rider offered me the spare tire out of his drop bag, which I took. I refueled, and refilled my camelback. I emptied it and a double strength bottle of Accelerade in this section. I took in three more Aleve and headed out.

Leg 3 - 39 miles

A short pavement climb out of town and we were back on the gravel again. The temps were continuing to rise and the heat was starting to take its toll on the riders. I had passed two riders laying in the shade, both apparently overcome by the heat. Mile 121 - 125 was Lil Egypt Road, easily the most gnarly section of "road" I've ridden on. Steep downhills with lots of ruts in loose rock and flint, paired with steep uphills made of the same stuff. Miles 125 - 135 pounded at us with more rollers, but my legs were still feeling pretty good. A downhill mile of chipseal took us within striking distance of Checkpoint 3, before turning up and away across a few more gravel rollers before dropping us into the town of Alma, KS. I had been staying on top of my nutrition and hydration and my legs still felt strong. I went into the convenience store and returned with a Budweiser tallboy, a quart of gatorade, and a turkey sandwich and proceeded to refuel. The temps were starting to drop as the sun sank in the west, and if I could get through part of the last leg in the sunlight, I knew I'd be able to finish. I had two more flats this section, one front, one rear. At the checkpoint I bought a tube from another rider and left.

Leg 4 - 62 miles

The first road out of town was Clapboard Ravine Road. It's earned the name. It meandered along the flood plain of a creek past some old houses and rose up through an area called Clapboard Canyon. On the way up, I looked down and see a small box turtle walking along the road. He looked up at me as I passed, and it put a bit of a smile on my face as I thought back to the story of "The Tortoise and the Hare" that you read as a child. I had another flat on the descent. One tube for the last 50 miles. Near mile 155, another rider and I had to dodge a dozen loose cows. Near mile 160, I met up with two more riders and we rode together into Eskridge. The convenience store was closed but we managed to get a Coke and some water at the local bar. A few miles outside of town, our headlights illuminated an angry beaver and one of her kits. We rode one last long climb up and then turned and rode south for the last 25 miles. I had flat #5, ten miles from the finish and had to dodge an indecisive opossum a bit futher up the road. At 2 AM, I hit the pavement at the edge of town, the road in front of the hotel and make the turn into the parking lot, crossing the line 20 hours and 10 minutes after I started. Good enough for 9th place in the open class and 10th overall.

After receiving some congratulations, collecting my drop bag, my finisher's glass, and a prize from the swag table, I rolled through the Burger King drive-thru, get some food and then rode back to the hotel. I put the bike bike in the truck, ate and finally crashed about 3:30 AM.

Salsa Bicycles Now in Stock!

2009-05-18T15:49:00.001-07:00

We have received our full shipment of Salsa bikes, including the much sought after Selma 29'er single-speed frame. Feel free to check out the Salsa bikes and then come in and ride one at our shop. They make very high quality frames, bikes, and equipment to match our demand to deliver only the best products to you, the consumer. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Rassy Tri Team with Great debut at Summer Daze Triathlon

2009-05-11T12:57:00.000-07:00

Jeff Bratz takes 3rd (Pictured Left) and Reed Rinderknecht wins in Newton sprint triathlon. The race consisted of a 500 meter swim, a 18 mile bike ride, and a 5k run. Here is how Bratz interpreted his race. The Swim was a pool swim so that made for a bit of interesting swimming as we didn't sign up until race day and this was a TT start I got seeded behind many slower swimmers in front of me. Navigated slower swimmers and found myself with a decent time.

Got out of pool and onto bike with a decent transition. Headed out to the turnaround point and started passing folks pretty quickly. Goals here were as follows: 1) Open up legs and see how I felt after three hard weeks of training 2) Not to get passed by teammate Rinderknecht before the turnaround(Reed had a 5 minute later start than I did). Bike went well didn't get passed by Reed until ~mile 14 of bike. Felt pretty solid and had passed many of the folks that had started ahead of me. One guy that I had passed(with a 5 minute head start was drafting off of me after the pass) and I leap frogged into the finish line with him leading me into T2 with a 25 second lead.

Quickly transitioned and saw him in front of me about 200 yards. This off-season has been a lot of running faster(for me), and I felt "great" off the bike. Caught him within 1/4 mile and as I passed him, patted him and "encouraged" him to run with me-he didn't. Ran 7:41/mile... very pleased with that. Last season I was struggling to run 8:30's.

Net result 3rd place OVERALL. This was a VERY small race, but I am still pleased with the outcome. Great showing for the team as we got 1st and 3rd place overall.

Great Showing in Iowa City by Rasmussen Race Team

2009-04-28T08:34:00.000-07:00

Old Capitol bike race consists of a road race on Saturday and a criterium on Sunday. Rich Wince and Brent "PIG" Mitchell had the best weekends of all the guys on the Rasmussen Race team. PIG ended up getting second in the CAT 3 race and Richard had a win in the CAT 4 Criterium. Richard Wince's race report talks about the factor weather really played in this weekend’s races. Saturdays road race had what seemed to be 50 or so in the field as we headed out. I hung out mid pack for the first 1-1/2 laps. Half way through the 2^nd lap, on the tailwind section, I move to the front and had this wild idea that I could breakaway and TT it to the end. That worked for about 10 minutes. Between the field having to kick it up a gear to catch me and one too many hills, it seemed we had whittled the field down to about 20 people. The final lap is where I perfectly executed my plan to stay out of the money. I found myself pulling the group for the final 5 miles (seemed no matter how slow I went, nobody was interested in pulling through). In the final quarter mile someone attacked for the finish. I immediately responded, caught him and decided to continue hammering it to the finish (now spun out with my 53x12 and about 400 yards away). At 100 yards from the finish I was gassed and watched the field continue on without me. I think I finished around 10^th place.Fot the Criterium on Sunday I hopped on the internet Saturday night a Googled “Crit Race Tactics” and proceeded to study up. The plan was to stay no further than 10 spots back, and on the front, but only for a few aggressive attacks. I talked before the race with Todd Juhlen and Steve Reynolds to be watching to join me for some breakaway attempts. When the race started, the road was still 99% covered with water from the early morning rain which made for sketchy riding. My back tire washed out a bit on the first right at the bottom of the hill, but it wasn’t enough to take me down. From that point on, I was very cautious on every corner (I have enough trouble with dry pavement!). This left the only logical attack point to be the hill. We had a few attacks up the hill, but nobody was strong enough to stay with me if I hammered it too hard, and I’m not strong enough to TT away from the field, so those were all short lived. For the last few laps I stayed in the top 5 taking more than my fair share of pulls. I had a full PRC cheer squad that kept yelling “GET OFF THE FRONT RICH!!! Thanks Ladies. With one lap to go I stayed in the #2 or #3 spot all the way around. After taking the final turn to the finish line, I turned on the afterburners and never looked back. I think I ended up about 5 bike lengths ahead of 2^nd place.

Squirrel wins 6 hour slugfest at Bonebenders

2009-04-21T08:15:00.000-07:00

Weather on the net predicted rain @ 70% for the BoneBender race 3 days out. That made the plan of bike set up easy, but its an Ancient Chinese secret:) I've raced in the mud quite a few times over my small amount of years in this sport. Bikes and mud don't mix very well no matter how ancient your secret be:) The plan for the day was to get to the single track top 10, get my Leroy on and stay in the 150's groove. I was on the bike 7th man back after the running start...two guys shot off the front very fast, Dwayne Goscinski and another very fast looking fella. Make no mistake had conditions been dry those two would have been setting grass fires! I asked to get around the 4 mates in front of me with everyone obliging...Grelkinstien was sitting in 3rd when I rolled by giving him a nice slap on the booty. At this point I was just trying to find the groove. I have no idea how far we were in on the course but it was just after the the 300yrds or so of the little baby head rock section that I caught up to Dwayne. Dwayne simply said your riding it faster or better then I and simply let me by. Not a hundred yards further I saw the lead fellow washing his bike in the small creek crossing. Once across the creek I was laying fresh tracks....mmmmm this is the sweet spot of riding mud kids:)

Now not 20 minutes into the race my plan of 150's had been shot out the window. There was $$ on 1st fastest lap...I just happen to be in perfect position to just keep on pushing for that money. I kept the pedals turning and didn't have to stop one time on the first lap. Coming back into the grassy area before the check in, I see Rick under the tent thinking...ahw crud what happened:( A quick bottle change,and I was back off. 1st through the check in...sweet!

The second lap on the other hand was the worst. 125 racers, plus mud had the tread in places churned up good. This lap I would push and clean mud off the bike, but not nearly as much as many of the other riders. I started lapping folks about half way through, I saw Kim Hopkins cleaning her rear der out on the black label, later on I came across our very own brutha in black Jim Logan walking a muddy bike. It was awesome having Herb and others cheering me on at a black label crossing. Although Herb never offered a beer or even a swill of his:) Thanks Bro..but next time have a heart man! At the end of each lap we had a nice and very welcomed piece of 1/2 mile black label to ride back to the start. This was where I would look behind for the #2 guy...never saw him....there that is:) Stopping for a bottle change and a bit of PBJ, Rick tells me of his bad luck. Ripped off his rear der. Rick also let me know that I had a 13 min. lead,sweet.....at least that's what he thought:)

Lap 3..a line is starting to ride in:) Things are looking up, still walking a few sections. Once again coming by Herb, and others with no beer love for a single speeding brutha:) Plenty of chears though! Again at the long black label I look back...whew...I don't see him. Stopping for a bottle change, Rick tells me his little mistake on the time gap...it was 6 mins! Ding...gotta go!

Lap 4 I rode almost everything. Leaving everything I had on the course at this point was the only option. Somewhere after the log ride there was a grassy section, this is where I spotted Dwanye for the first time since the first lap.I bolted! I had rode without one dub the whole time, that was about to change. Surfing the lakes edge there was a big rock out cropping that you had to take wide to get around. I'd about ran myself cross eyed and well it took its toll. The rock and my left shoulder met briefly, but I kept it up right and rolling. I kept pushing this time no one was around to cheer, the end was close and I hadn't caught any glimpse of Dwanye. Through the last single track and onto the black label I knew I'd pulled it off. For more on his win, or to see more pictures visit his blogspot http://cyclinglyfestyle.blogspot.com/2009/04/bonebenders-6hrs-of-mud.html

Jeff Bratz races for first time this year at the Tour of Hermann

2009-04-20T15:31:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning we woke up to rain...boo! Got out to race town(30 min) from hotel. Helped set up PRC tent, and helped get trailer unloaded(ps-the trailer that we used for bikes etc was awesome!!!!!). I was the last to head out on the time trial so I relaxed while everyone else got ready for their effort. Rain stopped prior to Lou's start time as the event was running about 15-20 minutes behind schedule. Once Lou was gone I got my bike setup and warmed up for 40 minutes and headed up the hill to the start house for the time trial. Prior to my depart PRC Kelli was back, and was giving me tips on the course that she had just crushed-thank Kelli! After a brief conversation with Kelli, I was up. Out of the house I rolled and off to the races. First two miles felt pretty solid but had a hard time getting HR where I wanted to be...but kept pushing. Made it to turnaround and caught first person ahead of me(30 sec gap), then turned. Wind at back pushed back home, felt ok-just never really got my legs pushing as hard as I wanted and the hill up to the finish line was a bit deflating on the ego/time. Crossed in exactly 25:00 minutes...I was hoping for 23-24...but first time out this season-ok. Result=6th place in the Cat4/5 race. I guess I got 15 points for the GC in the Omnium.

Crit? Not sure what to expect. Really not sure what to expect when I see that it really was McCrea Park except longer. Not much for me to do except survive for as long as possible. I did. Terry and I talked pre-race, and he says "i am not going to go and set the pace, but hope to be there at the end"...whistle blows, and he is gone-gone so far down the road immediately there were guys looking around and asking if that guy was in our race? We did this hill(McCrea-like 6 or 7 times) after the first one I realized this was going to be painful. Painful it was, there were times when the people cheering on the hill, sounded as if they were not not cheering-rather sending little verbal 'condolences on your loss' cards...Result=not Dead Last, but learned a lot.

Road Race. Sunday a.m.=rain! Weather channel says 1-2 inches of rain, 15-25 mph winds...oh yeah did I mention that the course is 'hilly'? Rain at start line is pretty solid...race official advises of 1 mile neutral rolling start-then a 'hill' would start the race. That hill destroyed the group immediately-I was off the back but found several guys to try to organize-course is so hilly nobody could really stay together! Once again to slow for the faster guys...and to 'fast' for the really slow guys. 30 miles of hills solo mission! These hills hit over and over and over-when coupled with the rain it made for great introspection and pain. The course did have primes for King of Mountain...I am not sure if anyone in our group knew this but I won the Court Jest of the Mountain...for being the biggest joke on some of the uglier hills. Result=Not Dead last

Had a great time! Great group to spend a weekend with-everyone was very helpful! I think I will 'race' again. Enjoyed the experience.

Proud Carrier of Saltstick

2009-04-06T11:32:00.000-07:00

Saltstick is a product that has a following unlike any other. A lot of top pros use this product and there is a good reason why. It is because Saltstick capsules actually work. They give you back exactly what you lose when you sweat. If you like Hammer Endurolytes you will love this product because you actually get sodium with each capsule. Beyond that Saltstick also makes the capsule despenser that can be mounted easily on the end of your aerobars, on top of your stem, or on your race number belt for the run. If you want more information check out the website which will provide you all the information you need. If you care about performance check out this awesome product.

Wetsuit & Apparel Clearance Sale!

2009-03-24T09:24:00.000-07:00

Do to the arrival of our 2009 Orca Wetsuits we are will are offering 25% off our 2008 Quintana Roo and Profile Design Wetsuits. In the QR suits we only have UltraJohn, UltraFull, and SuperFull suits available. We have limited sizes left so come and take advantage of this deal. We only have 2 Profile Design suits left. Now is the time to come and buy some early season speed at Rasmussen's. We are also offering 40% off selected clothing do to the amount of over stock we have. We need room from the new stuff, but the old stuff is in the way. It sounds like a win for you because you can get some great summer gear, just before warm weather finally arrives. We have road, mountain, and triathlon apparel, all on sale come on in and check out these awesome deals.

We Now Carry Orca Wetsuits!

2009-03-19T12:22:00.000-07:00

We just received our shipment of the 2009 Orca wetsuits. Orca is a company that has really exploded on to the tri scene. They started making wetsuits back in the early 90's and they have always been a company that designs their wetsuits for the needs of the athlete. They currently have some of the most innovative designs and offer some of the best technology from the $200 wetsuit all the way to the $600 suit. They sponsor the best triathletes in the world and they currently sponsor the last two Ironman world Champions. This year for the first time we will be offering wetsuit rentals, which you can read the details about on the rental page. We are going to rent out the S2 wetsuits, which is a $200 entry level suit, for a price of $50. You will be allowed to rent it for a week and you can apply one rental fee towards the purchase of your own wetsuit.

Rasmussen's Voted Best Bike Shop by Cityview

2009-02-19T08:42:00.000-08:00

Once again the citizen's of Des Moines, and the surrounding area, have spoken, and voted us as the best bike shop in town. We take pride in being a bike shop that the entire family can come to. With our excellent service we will make sure that you leave our shop with the bike that will best meet your needs. We have been that way for over 35 years and our success would not be possible without the support of our outstanding customers. Thanks for your commitment and we'll make sure that we continue to adapt and grow as the bicycle industry continues to grow. The one thing that will never change is our dedicated service and we look forward to having a great 2009.

Perhaps it's time for New Shoes

2009-02-16T11:43:00.001-08:00

Maybe your cycling shoes have seen better days, and it is time for an update. Perhaps it is time to upgrade to a new pedal system, and the corresponding shoes. Well it is your lucky day because our 2009 shoes have just arrived and now we must sell our old stock of shoes. Come in now and receive 25% on all our 2008 and older shoes. Whether is be for Ragbrai, Hy-vee Triathlon, road riding, mountain bike riding we have your new shoes waiting to be on your feet. Some in now and take advantage of this amazing offer!

Team Saxo Bank Embraces BG Fit.

2009-01-16T10:58:00.000-08:00

The most dominate team, last year, gets even better with the help of BG Fit. With the help of Specialized Fit technicians and the brains behind BG Fit, Dr. Andy Pruitt, Saxo Bank (formerly CSC) team riders were put in improved efficient positions on their bikes. They used the Specialized DATA (Dual Angle Technical Assessment) system, which uses two cameras, to capture each rider's position and pedal stroke on video. Then they slowed the video down and implemented changes with new level of accuracy(for more information see the bike fit page). We have the same system in our shop that they used for the Saxo Bank riders. They implemented changes and now we may see an even more dominate team in 2009. If you want to learn more about what Saxo Bank thought of the process check out these links provided.

1. SAXO BANK and BG FIT Article

2. SAXO BANK and BG FIT Video

3. SAXO BANK and SPECIALIZED BG SHOES Video

At Rasmussen Bike Shop we too offer the full BG FIT service using the DATA video capture system, plus all of the bikes and shoes from Specialized. Call to schedule an appointment today!

Ring in the New year with some new gear!

2009-01-16T09:37:00.000-08:00

Is it possibly time for some new equipment? Perhaps your old stuff just doesn't cut it anymore? Come in to Rasmussen's Bike shop and we will take care of your need, for something new. Right now we are offering 15% off all of our 08' bikes and 25% off ALL apparel, this includes winter and summer clothing. With beautiful Iowa weather you can never have enough clothing choices on any day. This is sale won't last forever so come in and take advantage of our sale!

PRC presents Cranksgiving 08'

2008-11-14T10:16:00.000-08:00

What is Cranksgiving?
You will be given a grocery list of 12 items which you must purchase from 12 different stores. You choose the stores, you choose the route; it’s like a treasure hunt! Once all the participants return, we’ll collect the food and donate it to the Food Bank of Iowa. We will give everyone a map with local streets and stores.
When/where is Cranksgiving?
Saturday, November 22nd. Registration opens at noon, race starts at 1pm.
Mars Cafe at 2318 University Ave. in Des Moines, IA
What is the goal?
Last year they raised over 2000 pounds of food and they want to make this year even bigger!
OTHER DETAILS:
T-shirts will be given to the first 100 people to register.

Mars Cafe will be selling COFFEE, SODA, BEER, and FOOD.
NO ENTRY FEE, but you will need to pay for your groceries.
Top finisher in each category will receive the Golden Crank Trophy.
Overall winner will win $100 towards a tattoo at Yankee Doodle Dandy Tattoo.
Huge raffle to follow the event for all participants. Lots of great stuff given away!
We suggest you bring a bag to carry your groceries, cash to buy them, and a lock.
Track stand competition following the event.

More Information use link provided: http://www.punkrockcycling.com/

Nice Race Amy!!

2008-11-07T09:05:00.000-08:00

Amy competed in Ironman Florida on November 2nd. Amy had a statement race as she announced herself as one of the top triathletes in the Midwest. She was the top finishing female Iowan, mainly due to her sick bike split. She averaged over 20 mph over the 112 mile bike course, which is a nice split for anyone. Then she finished it off with a descent run, to finish in a time of 11hrs and 15 minutes, a wonderful time for her first Ironman. Next race she needs to break 11 hrs though. She worked really hard and it was great to see her get the results from her training. Congratulations Amy!! She posted this on her blog after the race, "The IM was an amazing experience ... I finished in 11 hours and 15mins. Thank you so much to my Mom, Dad, Mark, Mel and Dylan for being my IronFans in Florida and all of their support throughout the year, my coach Heather Gollnick for keeping me on track with my training and answering my endless list of questions, Stadia Sports for keeping me healthy and working with my crazy schedule, Rasmussen's Bike Shop for getting me all ready and packed up for Florida and all of my wonderful friends for their words of encouragement, cards, flowers, signs, phone calls, text messages .... I couldn't have made this accomplishment without you all! A big THANK YOU.

Rassy Dominates at Dirty Duathlon

2008-11-05T08:17:00.001-08:00

Andy Lueck(Left) won the solo race, on his single speed. His bike skills were enough to hold off second place finisher, Louis Dewild, who competed on his cross bike. It was a day for the true mountain bikers as they dominated on a course, that was not easy. Cam Kirkpatrick and his teammate blew everyone out of the water once again, in the relay category, there was no close to them as they remained undefeated. I did the race, and I have a new found respect for the mountain bikers. I was so glad when the biking portion was over. It was a great event, with a great turn out, thanks to all the volunteers who helped. The course was in immaculate condition, and I can't wait til next year.

Goodluck to Kona Qualifiers

2008-10-07T08:14:00.000-07:00

The Ironman world championships is the pinnacle of all triathlons. This year is the 30th anniversary of the race that starts in Kailua Bay this Saturday, off the shores of Kona, Hawaii. Central Iowa is sending six qualifiers, and three of those qualifiers are on the Rasmussen tri team. Reed Rinderknecht, Steve Feltz, and Doug Vanderweide will be among the 1,828 participants in this years race. Pro triathlete TJ Tollakson, will also be one of the athletes from Iowa participating this year. They will have to negotiate a 2.4 mile ocean swim, a 112 mile bike ride through the sweltering lava fields, and top it all off with a 26.2 mile run on scenic Illahee drive. We want to wish good luck to all participants, especially the ones wearing black and white. If you want to follow the athletes in Hawaii, there will be a live Internet broadcast, or you can track an athlete's progress by their last name with the link provided.

http://ironman.com/events/ironman/worldchampionship/?show=tracker&rid=172&year=2008

Race Report - Carl Buchanan's win at Cross Out Crohn's

2008-10-06T08:25:00.000-07:00

The weather was looking great for Sunday's Cross Out Crohn's CX race at Maytag Park in Newton, IA. We arrived at the venue about 90 minutes before the beginning of the Cat. 4 race so I was able to mingle with a few friends and get signed in well before I needed to get warmed up. Went out for a couple of warmup/sighting laps to get a feel for the course. This park has been good to me in the past as I was hoping for a little bit of that yesterday. Overall the course was fairly open with two sets of barriers, one runup, and numerous off-camber turns. The first set of barriers was on a flat section so it would be a fast set of barriers requiring very smooth dismounts. This was followed by a brief downhill with a tight right-hander at the bottom and then right back up. A couple more fast turns, a quick downhill and then a sweet power climb to really get the legs going. There was a short flat section at the top to get your breath back before going back down a hill with a sharp left-hander into a nice little rise on the other side with the second set of barriers about half-way up the hill. These barriers were a little bit slower but with the hill continuing up on the other side it was important to get through smoothly and get to the top quickly. Once to the top there was a short section of pavement with a 180 degree turn and then back to the grass and some more off-camber turns, some shallow ups and downs, and then back to the finish line. Total length on the course was right around one mile if I heard correctly.

I was finishing up my second warm-up lap and approaching the start/finish line when I noticed that the other Cat. 4 racers were already lining up. I made my way to the group and got into the third row and waited for go time. While sitting there I took a look around to see who was there and try to figure out a bit of a game plan. I already had an idea of what I needed to do to stay towards the front but, plans can change. Starting from the third row meant that I just needed to get a few spots off the start and make a clean turn into the sharp left-hander that was only 50 meters from the start line.

As soon as the Referee said 'GO' the 21 rider field was cleanly away and I was able to move up to sixth position heading into the first turn. The front of the field was being paced pretty fast and was stringing out so I hopped around one rider into fifth spot right away and into fourth through the first set of barriers. We then went through a handful of turns with each one getting faster than the previous and then sped through a fast off-camber left-hander make some good speed to the first climb on the course. I wanted to make sure that I stayed with the front group especially through this climb so I made my way around third as a small gap developed between the first two riders and the rest of us. I was quickly on the rear wheel of the second place rider and basically just sitting in to see how things develop. Down the next hill and through the 90 degree left into the second set of barriers seemed to give the three of us a small gap on the field. The three of us were quickly back into a single file line after the barriers and heading into another set of tight turns. As we came around the last turn of the first lap, the first two riders went into the inside of the turn and I took the outside line to maintain my momentum and was able to get around them both and led through the start/finish area for the first lap.

Being on front starts a few new challenges, at least for me. In the past I have gone out too hard and blow myself up in the closing laps. I was able to get myself to relax a bit and see how the next few laps play out. First order was to get through the barriers as smooth and quickly as possible every time I arrived at each set of them. Secondly, I planned to maintain tempo on all of the flats and attack each of the uphill areas trying to spread the group out as much as possible. Basically, make sure to leave it all on the course. Thirdly, and most importantly, pacing myself. There were a couple of spots where it was pretty easy to gauge the gaps between riders and I made sure to take a quick look on each lap to see where everyone was sitting.

The second and third laps were both almost identical as I stayed on front with a rider from bike to you who was right on my wheel. The two of us had a gap over third and I did what I could to increase that gap as much as possible. Laps three and four stayed pretty smooth for me with one small hiccup going through the second set of barriers. The speeds were pretty low here compared to the rest of the course since the barriers were in the middle of an uphill section. My dismount was pretty bad and I almost tripped over the first barrier but, I was able to stay upright with just a little wobble. I quickly ran to the top, remounted, and started shifting gears figuring that second place would be coming around me any second. I was quite surprised to see that I had actually built a gap on the next couple of riders. That helped to motivate me a little bit and I picked it up just a touch more as I made my way to the end of lap four. Amy gave me a time check as I went past and grabbed a bottle of water to cool off. 12 seconds. 12 seconds is good but, with my string of mechanicals last weekend I wasn't going to chance anything and just maintained pace. As each lapped ticked by I could see that my gap kept getting bigger and bigger until I eventually could not see the second place rider at my "checkpoint". With three laps to go I started thinking that I may actually be able to pull this off but, I didn't want to get too comfortable and kept pushing those thoughts out of my head and replaced them with staying focused on the task at hand. Once the final lap started however, the thoughts of taking my first win went back into my head and I felt like the final lap was almost a blur. Each dismount/remount was perfect, I still attacked each climb and again after each turn (using that interval practice), and kept my pace all the way to the finish for the 'W'.

Eight seasons of racing (64 total races) with cross-country mountain bikes, endurance mountain bikes, time-trialing, road racing, criteriums, and now cyclocross before scoring a victory. You could say that I was pretty happy about it all.

2008-10-02T11:12:00.000-07:00

Huge Apparel & Equipment Sale!

Do to the arrival of 09' apparel, we are currently having a SALE on autumn and summer clothing. We are also having a SALE on helmets and footwear. Save as much as 25% on selected brands. Come and take advantage of this sale, while is lasts.

2008-09-17T13:52:00.000-07:00

Cam Gets 10th At Chequamegon

This past weekend was the 26th running of the Chequamegon fat tire festival race, which is the largest mass start mountain bike race in the country. The race draws many of the top riders from around the country, who are included in a field that surpasses 2,500+ entrants. Cam finished in 10th place in a time of 2:11.51, which would have won the race last year. The winner was Jonathan Page in a time of 2:08.06, for the 40 mile race. So congratulations to Cam on an awesome race.

Lou Wins State Criterium Championship

2008-09-03T10:36:00.000-07:00

Lou Waugaman rounds out a great road season by taking the Iowa State Criterium Championship in Pella, IA. And in convincing fashion Lou lapped the entire field solo easily cruising the final 10 laps to victory.

Great job Lou!

You can read Lou's take on the race here.

Thanks to Moritz for the photo!

RACE REPORT: Kent at 24 of 7 Oaks

2008-09-03T10:11:00.000-07:00

The goal...bring back the 4-man team 24 hour championship and the $1000 check that goes with it. Andy, Cam, Jed and myself comprised the rassy a-team this year. I got the call up to join these dudes who are used to winning. A little bit of pressure to perform.....yep. This being my first 24hr race I was a little unsure what to expect through the night and into the morning. The weapon of choice would be the rigid single speed vassago jabberwocky. Not exactly the ideal setup for 24 hours of Boone's technical rooty singletrack, but it's what i've got. Andy drove up in the rassy truck and setup a couple of large tents, complete with tables, lounge chairs, full toolbox, workstand, truing stand, bike stands, lights, generator, food and drinks. Yeah...we do it up right.

Kyle, Troy and co had the Seven Oaks course in primo race day condition. Temps were in the upper 80's during the day but dropped quickly in the evening hours. Noon marked the start and Andy was chosen as the lead out man....after the gun I quickly figured out why. He had us sitting in first team position, second overall. the start included a 100 meter dash to your bike and then a 1/4 mile nasty gravel hill climb into the singletrack. A solo 24 contender Ben Shockey threw down a crazy fast first lap, giving Cam a rabbit to chase on the second lap. Cam...well in typical Cam fashion pulled away from the rest of the field giving me a nice cushion for our 3rd lap. Shortly after heading out i started hitting a little lapped traffic. With the adrenaline pumping I was able to continue extending our lead while handing off to Jed. Keeping in our ways Jed pushed the pace, further gapping the contenders.

By nightfall we had a lap lead on the other teams. Throughout the night our goal was to stay clean and clear of trouble, while still pushing a solid pace. We ended up doubling up laps after midnight to allow for some sleep. I got an hour of sleep in, which turned out to be just what I needed to finish out my remaining laps. Oddly enough the time passed by really fast, both while riding and also when hanging out at our sweet rassy camp. Quickly it was sun up and we all had one more lap to do before noon. We all had 7 laps under our belts, so 28 total by 10:15 a.m. or so. There was a little confusion as to how big of a lead we had if it was two or 3 laps on the next closest team, ("Get A Grip" from Chicago). Andy made the sacrifice and headed out for his 8th and final lap to seal the deal for the rassy team's 3rd consecutive 24 hours of Iowa win.

Thanks have to go out to Rasmussen's for hooking us up with the truck and equipment for the camp. And also for getting me some much needed cogs and gear in short order for the race. A big thanks to Sterling for letting me use his light setup for the dark weee hours of the night/morning. And I couldn't have asked for a better group of guys to race with in my first 24 hour race. I had a great time hanging out at our camp with them and others like, Sedore, Grelk, Shockey, Lebeda, and everyone else who swung by. Glad to see Shockey back to himself Sunday after getting hit hard with heat stroke. I'm already looking forward to the 7th running of 24-7 in 2009. Next up is this weekends IMBCS time trial race at Des Moines' center trails.

Cam....we want our money....no seriously.......

--Kent

Lou Wins At Iowa Games

2008-08-18T08:33:00.000-07:00

Big Lou Waugaman took the overall spot at the 2008 Iowa Games Road Race. An early break was dwindled down to three riders, Lou and two guys from another team. Lou won the race with a convincing sprint and carried home the title of 2008 Iowa Games Champion. You can read Lou's blog here.

And check out all the results of every Iowa Games event here.

Gerald Wins C4 State Championship TT

2008-08-18T08:25:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Gerald Johnson and his winning time at the Iowa State Championship Time Trial. His time of 54:40:22 over the 4okm distance was enough to take top honors in the Cat-4s and the eighth fastest time overall. Props to Collier Scholfield as well, his time of 56:27:37 got him the silver medal in the Cat 3s. Great job guys!

RBS At Big Creek Triathlon

2008-07-29T08:18:00.001-07:00

Nathan White, Doug VanderWeide, Louis Dewild, and Steve Feltz all placed in the top 10 overall at the 28th Big Creek Triathlon. Nathan landed first place overall with a 1:57:25, just twenty seconds ahead of second place. Vanderweide and Dewild got first for their division, Feltz second. Lisa Marshall took 3rd overall for all women. Congratulations to all the RBS team who rocked the Big Creek Triathlon! Full results and race photos.

Rasmussen Bike Shop & RAGBRAI

2008-07-19T09:52:00.000-07:00

Rasmussen Bike Shop is an official bike shop of RAGBRAI (Register's Great Annual Ride Across Iowa). We will have a team of mechanics out on the road to assist with any repairs and we will have a booth at every end-town on the route. Please stop by and say hello.

Meanwhile, our location in West Des Moines will still be open! Though with more than 20,000 cyclists out on the ride, things at the store might be a bit slow. Causing Adam to go a little haywire with the aero-helmet and hoola-hoop.

RACE REPORT: Patrick At Iowa Games Triathlon

2008-07-15T11:55:00.000-07:00

(Editor's note: Due to a lack of photos of our Patrick Riley, we've opted for a picture of Pat Riley, coach for the Miami Heat) On Sunday while Big Lou Waugaman was busy working his fingers to the bone at Clear Lake , 300+ triathletes gathered at Don Williams Lake in Ogden for the Iowa Games Triathlon. With a half ironman on my schedule for July 20, a sprint triathlon a week prior would be ideal for a little speedwork and race-atmosphere fine tuning (and post-event snacks).

For my money, gorgeous temps, calm winds and a 400-yard swim do a good morning make. First into the water were we of the 20-39 age group. Then men 40+, women, teams and lastly men 19-and-under.

At my first race of the year (Hy-Vee), I'd momentarily forgotten the first tenant of successful swimming: turn head, THEN breathe. The result: a goodly gulp of lake water down the wrong pipe 50 yards off the beach, and a lot of treading water while I cleared the airway. On Sunday, the swim went better, and I was out of the water in about tenth place.

Other than avoiding breathing water into my lungs (aka "Hoisting the mast on the failboat"), my race plan was to make the move of the day on the bike, possibly sacrificing some run speed in favor of getting out of sight. I knew the end of the bike course and beginning of the run course were winding roads, so being out ahead and around corners would be an advantageous position to occupy.

As with the swim, the bike was also on the short side, just 13 miles. A short, steep hill right out of T1 shocked the cycling legs into action. Almost a completely straight out-and-back with big-ring rollers, we had the slightest of head/crosswinds on the way out. By the halfway point I'd reeled in all but one cyclist, and asked myself, "What would Reed Rinderknecht do?" The answer came to me in a flash, and in a flash I buzzed past the remaining cyclist on an uphill to take over the race lead.

Six miles later I was into a bikeless T2 and out onto the run before the next guy arrived. Spectators lined the road around the transition area, and before decamping for the 5K run I individually suggested to each of them that Rasmussen Bike Shop can meet all their cycling and multisport needs. Well, that or I grabbed a cup of what I thought was cold water and threw it in my face only to discover warm Gatorade coating my eyeballs. Either way, a compelling spectacle for the crowd.

The first mile featured a little curvy climb away from the lake, and I could feel the biking effort in the legs. No first mile of a sprint or Olympic-distance run is easy, though, and I kept it loose and waited for the run legs to kick in. Two out-and-back portions on the 5K course allowed me to gauge the chasers, and while there were some fleet-footed runners in pursuit, I was holding the gap and growing it. 3.1 miles later I crossed the finish line first.

Not so fast, Longshanks! It wasn't over yet-- similar to a TT, I was in the hotseat waiting to see if anyone in later waves would better my time. The 40+ guys started rolling in and I still had the lead, but later a quick-looking 19-year-old Ben Potts came charging across the line, having started in the final wave. We compared times, and I'd managed to keep a 13-second advantage for the overall victory.

Notch another win for the DS5K.

--Patrick

Lou Waugaman Tops at Elkhart TT

2008-07-11T07:16:00.001-07:00

Lou Waugaman won the third edition of the Elkhart Time Trial with a blistering time of 15:15 (29.33 mph average). This time was only one second away from beating the course record set by Nick Frey. Great job Lou!! The rest of the team brought home plenty of decent times as well, Pete Basso took the third fastest time of the night with a 15:59 and Collier Scholfield landed a 16:09 proving that he will be back on top of his game faster than anyone imagined. Great job everyone!

Rasmussen Team Times for the 3rd Elkhart TT

Lou Waugaman 15:15 (1st Cat-123)
Pete Basso 15:59 (3rd Cat-123)
Collier Schofield 16:09 (7th Cat-123)
Gerald Johnson 16:21 (1st Cat-4)
Collier Schofield 16:49 (2nd Masters 40+)
Kris Kunze 16:51 (8th Cat-123)
Brent Mitchell 17:12 (10th Cat-123)

Full results.

RBS Takes Silver Medal at State TTT

2008-07-08T06:05:00.001-07:00

Rasmussen Bike Shop fielded a team for the Iowa State Championship Team Time Trial in Littleton, IA. The team consisted of Pete Basso, Kris Kunze, Collier Scholfield, and some random guy we found picking through the trash at Perkins (Brent Mitchell). Over the 100km race the four set a scorching time of 2:16:20 (25.53 mph average). An awesome job guys, congratulations!

RACE REPORT: Lisa at Hy-Vee Triathlon

2008-07-02T09:11:00.000-07:00

As athletes, we are sometimes faced with circumstances that test our resolve, leaving us to question our ability to continue in sport. In the last 18 months, a series of frustrating setbacks conspired to do just that. Cycling through injuries like Liz Taylor cycles through husbands, I moved from a 6-week layoff in Jan '07 (Morton's neuroma) to a 4-week layoff in May '07 (patellar tendinitis) to the 12-week granddaddy of them all in Sept. '07 (plantar fascia near-tear). Of course, I've been told that I deserved the latter injury, as I failed to yield to the insidious pain that developed at mile 7 of the 10-mile Capital Pursuit road race--that became excruciating pain by mile 9. As if my physical suffering was not indicative enough, I knew I was in bad shape when the race announcer loudly proclaimed "Here is the women's winner! Oh…it looks like she's got a cramp…" which was followed immediately by a confluence of EMT's, eager to assist.

After 12 weeks of no running and an insane amount of stationary cycling, I was finally healthy enough to resume running in January of this year. I hit the treadmill with a vengeance borne of anger and a sense of unfairness…as well as a desire to storm the running scene with an age 40 debut at April's Drake Relays half-marathon. In addition, I supplemented my run training with thrice-weekly lunchtime forays on the stationary bike, in preparation for a re-transformation into a triathlete by summer. This, to continue a semi-successful career begun in 4 B.C. (Before Children, circa 1994) but placed on a ~10-year hiatus, as well as to enjoy a relationship with Rassy's by competing on their newly-formed tri team. By March, I was ready to rumble. Bring it on baby! You name the place, I'll do the race. No matter how far…guaranteed PR. On top of the world, I celebrated a rare beautiful day in March with a 16-mile long run. Seduced by the weather and lost in the hard rock blaring from the iPod, my pace ratcheted up into tempo territory. It was so good that I could almost ignore the pain beginning to emanate from my shin. Oh yeah. OK. Shin splints, every runner's nemesis, right? Except shin splints are supposed to get better after 3 weeks of reduced and easy running. Except shin splints are supposed to be felt in a general area of the shin and not in a pinpoint area of the shin. And, you are not supposed to see swelling on the front of the bone with a shin splint are you? The MRI confirmed the disastrous news: high-risk anterior tibial stress fracture. The worst kind of tibial stress fracture. The kind that is prone to delayed healing, non-union, and the insertion of titanium rods into shins. How can this be happening to me again? My 4th injury in 15 months, and 3rd lifetime stress fracture (other 2: femur shaft). Doc ordered the full workup: caloric nutritional analysis, calcium and vitamin D nutritional analysis, vitamin D blood test, bone density test. Results: normal, normal, a bit low, normal. This was not what I wanted to hear. I wanted some reason other than that I train too much and too hard, you know?

Forty-six long days were spent only in the pool. Sometimes 90 minutes of pool running. Sometimes 45 minutes of pool running and 45 minutes of swimming. Sometimes an hour of both. Pumping iron when I got the chance. Trying to retain as much aerobic and muscular fitness as is possible without being able to feel the sweat trickle off my body and watching it pool on the treadmill or on the floor. Trying to avoid the inevitable weight gain from not being able to torch calories with weight-bearing exercise. Dealing with the pain-in-the- arse air cast that I needed to wear at all times when upright. In May, back to the doc. Sweeter words were never said: "You may now begin your return-to-running plan." My happiness was tempered by the news that my "return-to-running plan" involved a week of walk-only, followed by 8 more weeks of increasing run/walk ratios that would have me running only 3 miles per day by the 9th week. Now what? Copper Creek tri—definitely out. Hy-Vee tri—most likely out. Who knows what after that? So I began to walk (and continue to stationary bike, and swim, and pool run). Then run 1 minute/walk 4 minutes, then run/walk 2/3, then 3/2, then 4/1 (and stationary bike, and swim, and pool run). By week 5 (June 9), I'd had enough. No more walking. It was run 3, run 4, day off, repeat. By week 6 (Jun 16), I performed my Hy-Vee triathlon test: a 6 mile run. Made it! By Jun 20, D-day had arrived. Pick up the Hy-Vee race packet or don't pick up the Hy-Vee race packet?? Answer: PICK IT UP, girl.

Race morning. Up at 2:15 to eat some cereal. Got almost 6 hours of sleep in, thanks to taping Hefty garbage bags to our large southwest-facing master bedroom window. Going to bed at 8:45 is a new thing for this standard 1:00 AM night owl. Decide at last minute not to take the shuttle to start, and park in neighborhood near Raccoon River Valley Park instead. Walk to start is peaceful at 3:45 AM. Weather is going to be beautiful! I enjoy the heady aroma of the outdoors, ever more enjoyable after weeks spent whiffing chlorine. It's much better to be very early for these things; I am prone to freak-out before triathlons. Remembered panic attack last year when nobody could get the tires on my race wheels pumped up; had to ride that race at less-than-ideal tire pressure. Stupid sew-ups. Crappy 12-year-old stems. Time: 45 minutes to starting gun. Go for a run to verify shin status and get loosened up. Don't want to warm up in the water; old ladies start at 6:24, which would leave me shivering in the cold air for 39 minutes. Oh and by the way, what is up with the 78-degree no-wetsuit rule? Those of us who are still cold swimming in 90-degree water hate that rule; body temp is 98.6, is it not? No doubt--that rule was the brainchild of a man with a high metabolism. Glad the water temp is 75 and I can be relatively warm in the water in my wetsuit. Worst case would be water temp at 78.

Gun goes off, I attack the swim. As usual, the swim attacks me back. Choking, coughing, sputtering, and flailing through a million bodies, I finally manage some semblance of a rhythm by the second orange sight buoy. Dang, my butt is sinking! Kick, you idiot! Every time, you lose the race on the swim. Fight, girl, fight! Why don't I do duathlons? Answer: duathlons are cheating. Sure, just get rid of my weakest event. What challenge is that? Overshooting the swim exit by a little bit, I finally feel the gritty pleasure of terra firma underneath my fingernails. Swim is not too bad for a brick. About 3:00 faster than last year, which I'd like to think is due to increased pool time this year, but is probably due only to the effect of the "cheatsuit." Run like a cheetah to my spot in T1. Mine is the row marked by the first Kybo after the one with the smiley face. Feel slightly irritated at having to carefully stuff my swim crap into the white trash bag, but get mad at myself when I think of all the work Hy-Vee had to do to even get this event run this year. How late did those people have to stay up this week to pull this thing off? Unbelievable. Tear off on the bike. Annoyed that I am so far behind, and now I have to pass people on a 2-lane road while trying to avoid a drafting penalty. Love the rural bike course and the hills; they make me feel tough. Before I know it, I'm at T2. Have no idea what place I'm in, but I'm going for broke. Put on my new "racing flats" which are now "lightweight trainers" in deference to turning 40. Need to remember the Vaseline trick next year, if I continue to run sockless. Not feeling too shabby, considering I just gave a near all-out effort on the bike and I've only done one 6+ mile run since March. See my stud friend Robyn Friedman, finishing her team's 10K as I'm starting mine. Wish I was her. She's never injured and she finished 9th at this year's Olympic Marathon Trials. Hey! Kelli Mente…great job on the bike for that team! Burn through the first 2 miles at 6:12 pace. Is that too fast? I hope not. I still feel good. Pass mile 3 and look for my co-worker who lives in the area and said she was going to watch. Consider asking her if she can spare a donut, but decide to hold off until the post-race refreshments. See my friend Melinda who is admiring my new Rassy uni and giving me the thumbs up. Nice to have the support of friends! Ready myself for the final hill. See my friend Keith who is telling me I'm looking good. Chug, chug, chug, up and over and into the finish straight I go. Hearing the cacophony of cowbells, I cross the finish line. I see my friend Jenny in the finish chute and give her a hug. I slap hands with my husband, who also did the race. I am jubilant! PR, it was not, but jubilation…yes it was. Jubilation at being able to toe the line at a race for the first time in 9 months. Jubilation at finishing the 10K in under 40 minutes off very little run training. Jubilation at finishing overall 11th and master's 2nd under the circumstances. And jubilation at managing to complete a race without straining, tearing, cracking, or breaking a body part. I don't know what the future holds, but I plan on enjoying any run of health that I am able to sustain. Morals of the story:

* Sometimes you have to make the best of the hand you were dealt
* Never lose hope
* When injured, purchase H2O Audi's waterproof iPod case. Load the iPod with appropriate motivational theme songs such as "Pain" by Three Days Grace. Wear the unit while pool running and ignore the strange looks from the water aerobics ladies when you yell out the refrain: "…Pain, I can't get enough. Pain, I like it rough. `Cause I'd rather feel pain than nothing at all…"
* I need a swim coach

RBS Rocks the 2008 Hy-Vee Triathlon

2008-06-23T11:27:00.000-07:00

For the second year Rasmussen Bike Shop was the official bike shop sponsor of the Hy-Vee Triathlon. This year things were a bit different though, along with the event being an Olympic qualifier for the pros, it was flooded out, relocated, changed to a duathlon, and then changed back to a triathlon... but the most distinctive difference this year from last is the number of black Rasmussen jerseys that took to the race course.

It seemed that no matter what part of the event you did you were bound to see someone wearing the black of Rasmussen Bike Shop. At the expo and packet pick-up you could have bumped into Adam, Martha, Mac, Phil, Mark, or Cam... at bike check-in or race day you may have hassled Greg, Terry, Jeff, Sterling, Matt, Andy, Sean, Steve, Craig, and Squirrel while they were working in the mechanics pits. And on the race course you were likely passed by Doug, Louis, Reed, Lisa, Chris, Patrick, Heather, Matt, Amy, Jan, Kelli, Nathan, Jane, Emily, Scott, Steve, Jeff, and on and on and on.

Rassy black was in the fullest force! Thank you to everyone who was involved with what is arguably one of the most important triathlons in the world!

We want to make special mention for two of our team riders though. Doug Vander Weide and Lisa Marshall... who both took 11th in the overall results for men and women. Congratulations you two, you were the fastest in Rassy black at the Hy-Vee Triathlon!

Full results for the Hy-Vee Triathlon.

A collection of pics from Maharry, Squirrel, and DQ.

Gerald Johnson Tops At Elkhart TT

2008-06-13T11:21:00.000-07:00

Big congratulations to Gerald Johnson for laying down the fastest time at the June edition of the Elkhart Time Trials. Gerald's time of 15:57 was the only time to break 16 minutes on the 12km course. Other great Rassy team finishes came from Doug Vanderweide 16:02, Louis Dewild 16:14, Pete Basso 16:15, Steve Flood 16:38, Steve Flood's second run of 16:58, and Brent "The Pig" Mitchell at 17:21.

Pictured: Steve Flood, Gerald Johnson, Pete Basso (note the Duct Tape), and Brent Mitchell.

See full results HERE.

We'd also like to give a HUGE WELCOME BACK to Collier Scholfield. Who dropped a sick 16:27. Great job Collier, awesome to see you back. And soon, back in black! ;)

RACE REPORT: Loran At Snake Alley

2008-05-28T08:35:00.000-07:00

Kristin, Mark, and I loaded up the Expedition on Friday and headed east for what was for each of us our first attempt at the Memorial Day race weekend. Fun and laughter filled the truck as we cruised towards Mediapolis for the Friday Night road race. We arrived in plenty of time to register, pick up numbers, and enjoy the entertainment from the locals (a singing Elvis did make an appearance).

The course was 24 miles point-to-point with a few hills, a nasty headwind for the first 8 miles, 10 miles of crosswinds, and 6 miles of rollers with a tailwind. Mark was the first to start with the Cat 4s, followed by the Cat 4 women, and lastly the Cat 5 men. DQ gave me sound coaching, "stay out of the wind, do little work for the first 18 miles, but hit the gas on the rollers with the tailwind." So, off we went riding into a 20 mile headwind, the great thing about Cat 5s is that there is little strategy, with that being said, one individual pulled hard for the first 10 miles without letting go of the lead. Naturally I did as I was coached and sit pleasantly in 3rd-5th position. We made the turn heading South and the paced picked up until four of us were off the front. Unfortunately, we didn't work as well as we could have and we let 2 individuals bridge back on to the lead group. We made the turn East with the tailwind with a group of 6. I hit the gas on the first roller but shook no one- First thought was "now what?" Stay the course, rotate through, but stay in the top 2-3. Well that didn't quite work as somehow 2 people got off the front. We played around back-and-forth knowing it was going to be a 4 person sprint for 3rd place, we approached the 1k sign so I made the decision to at least make this hurt a bit. The tempo kept rising until I saw the 200 meter sign and "boom" it was time to sprint (well as much as a Cat 5 former triathlete can sprint). What I find out is that I have 150 meter sprinting ability and not 200 meter sprinting ability. After the finish the two guys I lead-out did thank me, that's the beauty of Cat 5. Overall, the race was fun, I had a blast, met some new friends, and learned some new lessons on racing. With that being said I knew the "Snake" awaited me the next day. Both Kristin and Mark had great races (I will let them recant their own stories) and finished in the money for Cat 4s.

Jane Riessen had invited us to her folks place in Burlington for a Bar-B-Q. Thank you John and Roxy Riessen for an awesome meal!

Morning came and it was time to head to downtown Burlington to get our first glimpse of Snake Alley. The "Snake" is "A one block long climb is on the historic brick street named Snake Alley, dubbed "the crookedest street in the world." The 276 foot long Snake Alley has 5 switchbacks in a sixty foot climb. The average grade is 12.5 percent in that one block. Bring a suitable gear cluster for that kind of climbing. This is one of the most physically challenging races in the Midwest". Ouch! 60 minutes prior to my race I started my warm-up as I new I needed to be warm for the start. Cat 5s did 8 laps of the .8 mile course. We lined up for the start based on when you registered. I was lined-up 35th out of some 40+ racers, back row of 4 rows, inside position for the first turn, bad spot. "Bam" the gun goes off, 100 yards take a right turn, 50 yards later you enter the "Snake", I am sitting in 2nd to last and I am close to anaerobic already. We climb the "Snake" and the fun begins. If you love to be anaerobic, like to "let the clutch out" on descents, and have no fear of tight corners, then this is the race for you! On top of all that, the fans are awesome, there are hundreds of people lining the snake either yelling your name or your team name, what a rush! Back to the race, I immediately entered Zone 5 after the first ascent of the "Snake" and decided I would be playing catch-up.

DQ and the PRC ladies were at the top of the "Snake" yelling encouragements, thanks! DQ said, "go as hard as you physically can up the "Snake", get over the top and get in your big ring and bomb the descent". Wow, that worked magnificently! Each lap I was passing people on the "Snake", passing people on the three 90-degree right turns on the descent (seeing hay bales wrapped around posts is always an encouraging sign), while taking a slight recovery for 150 yards before the next lap. DQ gave me race position updates each lap and I was moving up. With 3 laps to go I was in 7th place 30 seconds down to the leaders, 2 laps to go I was in 5th place 20 seconds down to the leaders, 1 lap to go I was in 3rd place 15 seconds down to the leaders. I totally bombed the last descent hoping to catch the leaders but having lapped other riders I did not know who the leaders were. Sprinting towards the line (go back to earlier statement of Cat 5 former triathlete sprinting)I was fortunate enough to finish in 3rd place with a new "true" love for bike racing! Standing on the podium with the Rassy's kit was awesome, collecting some swag even better, but being done with the "Snake", priceless!

Top honors for the weekend go to Cam Kirkpatrick, who did 2 races on the "Snake" totalling 24 laps and finished 1st in the Masters 40+ and 2nd in the Masters 30+. Great job Cam!

RACE REPORT: Rick at Almanzo 100

2008-05-20T08:17:00.000-07:00

100 miles of gravel should be tough, it should challenge you, but it should also reward. Almanzo 100 didn’t disappoint on any of those counts. While I could ponder and pontificate on the additional training I should have put in, the missed turns I made, or how much the headwind sucked, it is what it is and that’s all part of the race to the finish. As my buddy Squirrel so eloquently has put down in permanent ink- “Suck it up” is the only true option.

I tried to set no expectations for myself other than finishing as strongly as I could. This being my first true race, I just needed to finish. I’m too damn competitive for that so as last week focused my attention on the race I picked a few goals to shoot for. I wanted to finish in less than 9 hours total time out, in the top half of the field, and average better than 12.5 mph moving average. Considering my last gravel grinder put me at 10 hours out with over 8 hours of actual riding time, I thought these were good set points.

Friday afternoon found me picking up Squirrel for a dash north to Rochester. We’d be camping out in the race director’s (Chris Skogen) backyard. We arrived in plenty of time to take a quick spin to the shop that was hosting the start/finish line for the race. A stop for some supplies for the evening meal and we headed back to our host’s house. Calling it an early evening we turned in before 10. I tossed and turned most of the night regretting that I hadn’t brought any type of pad for my sleeping bag.

Saturday morning dawned early, chilly, and slightly overcast as I fought off the shivers and tried to decide the best clothing options for the day. I chose a sleeveless base layer, bibs, my new Rasmussen Death Squad five thousand short sleeve jersey, and arm and leg warmers. A breakfast of a homemade waffle offered up by an awesome host was downed and off to the starting line we went. Roughly an hour before start, we wandered around the host store and met some of the other competitors.

The weapons of choice were as widely varied as the competitors. Being that there were 3 categories- single speed, fixed, and open, the hardware ranged from simple to complex. One of the more interesting combos I ran across was a cross style bike with mono shock setup, running deep section HED rims and cross tires with a mustache type handlebar. I felt a bit outgunned with a hard tail mountain bike and 2.1 tires. The sun started to creep out as we inched closer to the 8 AM start time and I started warming up. Just as the race director was making the announcement to start lining up I made the decision to peel off the leg warmers and stuff them into my hydration pack. If there had been a few more minutes to spare, I’d mostly like have tossed the arm warmers as well.

With a field around 60 strong, we rolled to the start line for a mass rollout. As we had the first few miles rolling through downtown Rochester, I made sure to stay in the top 20 riders to guarantee I wouldn’t be dropped by any errant stoplights. The first little miscue came as the lead pack accidentally turned to cut through a parking lot only to find no outlet. A number circled back, but I chose the path of least resistance by hopping the curb and going across the parking. Score one for the mountain bike! I was in the top 3 for the first, last and only time of the day.

As we warmed up and rolled into the start of the gravel, we hit a couple small rollers to get us ready for the first climb of the day. A 200’ 8-10% grade blew the group into pieces. While I had gears and could easily make my way to the top, I quickly learned that I could only put power down by being seated. I had too much pressure in my tires with pretty small knobs that wouldn’t bite on the hard pack with loose pebbles on top. This would be a pretty common occurrence for the rest of the day which forced me to either climb seated or really work on smoothing my pedal stroke while standing. The main group of riders totaled somewhere in the low teens and were off like a shot from the top of the hill.

I worked into a steady pace trying to keep my heart rate in the lower half of zone 4 and began rolling off the miles. I tailed Squirrel and a few other riders in the first section and witnessed a rider go down. A very brief slow down to make sure he was ok and we picked the pace right back up. The miles now varied between flat and rollers with no major climbs for a time. Mile 25 found us rolling through the town of St Charles and enjoying another short stretch of pavement along with another climb as we headed up to and beyond I-90. This also turned us into our first real foray with the headwinds as we headed back west. After enjoying cross tailwinds strong from the northwest for the first jaunt, the headwinds hit hard.

We now stair stepped our way south and west varying between cross tail and head winds. Outside of the next pass through town of Chatsfield, we found the longest climb of the day. Close two 2 miles long and gaining over 300’ of elevation, we transitioned from tarmac back to a wide packed gravel road. I kept my pace up on the climb and slowly put some time on a couple fellows that had gained on me in the downhill into town. At this point in the race, seeing other competitors started coming mostly in areas where I could see more than a quarter mile in front or behind. For all intents and purposes, I was now riding alone.

Now focused on getting to the checkpoint in good time without making any stops, I made my first miscue of the race. I easily made the un-marked turn noted on the cue sheet, but was befuddled by a road sign that noted a turn to the right while there was also a route going straight. Convinced that the road turning sign signified that the route we were on also turned, I pushed ahead. I noted several riders that were coming up on me at the time, questioning my decision, but ultimately following me. Damn, it was a wrong turn. I paid no attention that all the bike tracks had gone straight being that I was so convinced I was right. After a mile, we all pretty much realized the mistake and doubled back down the road for 2 bonus miles on the route! At least I only drug 3 other souls along with me.

Squirrel and another fixed gear rider had caught back up to me at this point and pulled ahead for a short time. However, the road soon was to my benefit with flats and a few long downhills with very short rollers at the ends. I soon passed them and put time in the bank as well. I pushed along and rolled into the only checkpoint on the route in Spring Valley at the 62 mile marker. I was averaging well over 15 mph at this point and while I was starting to tire, I still felt good. It was time for a brief stop to reload on water (70 oz in the hydration pack and 24 oz on the bike), take some ibuprofen, and reapply the chamois crème. In retrospect, I spent too much
time at the checkpoint as I was stopped near 30 minutes.

My legs felt strong and slightly recharged as I pulled out of the checkpoint and into the wind. This leg was to be almost entirely north into a steady 15-20 mph wind from the northwest. I pulled away from some riders on the first section out of the checkpoint only to start the downhill slide to bonksville around mile 75. My heart rate freefell by 30 beats per minute, my legs ached, and although I could tell myself just to stay on the bike, it wasn’t happening. On a small incline, I finally hopped off the bike and walked for roughly 100 yards until I could force myself back on. I felt like hell and knew it was going to be a rough finish with 25 miles of headwind
yet to fight.

I struggled through another 7 miles and finally took a quick break for another gel and more ibuprofen. I stopped completely this time for about 5 minutes and focused on stretching out and getting my head together. I kept expecting riders to start streaming past me, but they didn’t come. I wasn’t the only one suffering the winds! I resigned myself to start back up and gladly found my pace slowly picking up. I was working through it.

Around mile 85 I made my second tactical mistake of the day. Not realizing that we were doing two turns in quick succession, I instead focused on the large figure dotting the center of the road ahead. Setting in the middle of an intersection was an ominous figure of a large farm dog. He was waiting ever so patiently for me to slowly crawl up to his turf. As I took stock of my options, out-sprinting him was quickly dismissed and the water bottle plan was put into action. As I approached, another large dog joined him. With about 20 feet left to go, I realized the main dog was indeed panting, wagging his tail, and friendly as could be. Whew, disaster avoided, or so I thought. I was so engrossed on finding a way to fight off a possibly hostile dog, I missed that fact that he was indeed directly ensconced in the middle of the intersection I needed to turn at. I rode 2 miles down the road before realizing I was indeed off course once again. If you’re keeping track I’m now at 6 bonus miles for the ride, woohoo….

I doubled back to find my mistake and was at least thankful for the tailwind that propelled me back. I couldn’t help but wonder how many people had just passed me while I was out exploring off course. The mistake helped fuel some determination back into my legs and I began riding with intent instead of desperation. I downed another gel and got back to work.

We finally hit pavement with about 8 miles left to go. I kept expecting there to be a turnoff to more gravel somewhere in there, but mercifully we were done. The torture was quite over though as the pavement turned to some short, but wicked rollers as we headed back to Rochester. I succumbed to a single rider in this section and couldn’t keep pace as he slowly pulled off the front. As we hit the city limits, I began to feel that bit of euphoria of knowing that I would make it to the finish. The final mile found me in a whole new world. I was physically and mentally drained, my emotions let go and the evidence starting pooling under my sunglasses. I made the final turn, the cowbell, the cheers, the finish line. I shot through and stayed on
my feet long enough to check in until I could collapse against the building with my head in my hands. I was done.

7:54 was my final time. 14.5 mph moving average. 31st place overall. As the field narrowed to 59 official entrants, I only missed my goal of top half of the field even though I handily exceeded both my average speed and overall time goals. I loved it, I hated it, I want more.

--Rick

RACE REPORT: Jeff in Albert Lea

2008-05-20T08:14:00.000-07:00

Decided to head up to Albert Lea, Minny to give it a go. This race was not on my calendar but after my previous result(chain break) at Race for Sight I needed to get back on the horse and race. The race distance was a weird one, .25 mile swim, 19.8 mile bike, and a 4.2 mile run. Longer than an sprint, but shorter than an Oly.

Originally I was going to head up Sunday morning and run the 2.5 hour trip solo mission. However; Saturday afternoon I asked my wife (Carmen) if she wanted to pack the kids and the car and head out...she said "YUP"-so that is what we did.

As I looked at the weather it was looking like it was gonna be a cool one early in the week, but as the week went by the forecast was saying warmer weather! Sawheet, warm weather! The only problem with that is nobody mentioned this to mother nature, and she left us with early morning temps in the mid-40's.

With a good long warmup of running, stretching, cycling, more stretching, KYBO visit, I finally hiked on the wetsuit and headed towards the water. I stood around long-enough that the pre-race meeting was being called and I had yet to hop in the water. Pre-race meeting was a bit longer than I had anticipated. ..sure wish I hadn't
zipped up the wetsuit quite so early-nuff said.

During the pre-race meeting the race director casually mentions "yeah we could have head and cross-winds upwards of 30 mph, but don't worry the course is layed out that it really shouldn't help anyone." I wasn't real sure what that meant but shortly I would find out.

Pre-race meeting over, brief "warm-up" swim, when I say brief and I say "warm-up" I say "brief" it is literally, when I saw "warm-up"-not so much. Exit Minnesota open water with an 'ice-cream' headache.

I was in wave 2, they sent off wave 1 and 3 minutes later I was off. The water was so cold I really had trouble settling into a breathing pattern, and never felt comfortable in the water. I later learned that I had the 12th fastest swim split on the day, but never felt good in the water. Got out and ran to T1, this was one of the
toughest transitions I have ever had, as I was so cold I could barely get my feet under me.

Grabbed my bike and ran. Once on the bike my only focus was to warm-up and get my HR pumping towards Z3. Small hill out of T1 helped with getting the HR up. It didn't take long to realize that the wind was going to be a major factor today. Winds were coming at us nearly head-on then a turn helped me slow down further as the wind was now a brutal head/cross-wind that was really knocking everyone around. Not sure why but this course suited me well as I started grabbing folks getting pushed around by the wind. Nutrtion, water, and cadence litreally all I thought about on this ride. Of the 19 miles we had the wind at our back for ~4-5 miles. When the wind was behind us I was clipping along at 35+mph!

Back into t-2, with a quick transition(47 secs) and I was running. My legs struggled on the run but I was able to keep a 8:00/mile pace. I never really had the snap on the run I hoping for, but was o.k. with the result, especially as I started cramping in the last .25 miles of the run.

After crossing the finish line a guy comes up to me and asks me my division. I tell him, and he says "yeah that is what I thought, I am pretty sure you just got first, I tried pulling you in the last two miles but could never reel you in, and think that I just got second." I looked around to make sure he was talking to me, and sure enough he was. I went and looked at the results board, and in fact I had one the division.

More hardware for the Rassy's Tri Squad.

--Jeff

RACE REPORT: Louis at Galena Triathlon

2008-05-20T08:07:00.000-07:00

After a successful spring road running season, I was itching to get the triathlon season going and see what all that off-season training had done. I headed out to Galena with a couple buddies of mine on Friday and then learned what everyone means about this course being tough. The hills are like nothing we have in central Iowa. We got a shake out ride in and put our bikes in T1 on Friday night.

You have to love a leisurely 9am race start. We were up early to prepare T1 and T2. This is a point to point race with separate transition areas. We took the bus out to the swim start. I got a few bike warmup miles but missed the swim warmup messing with my wetsuit. The water was a balmy 59 degrees. I'm in the third wave 9 min back from the first group. I get a great swim start position on the outside, front row of a gate start and really bust out to get some clear water. I swam past the first buoy by a few strokes but got the turn. I tried to find a draft but wasn't able. I got out of the water with a decent swim split for me but 106th swim split overall. It was a tough transition. I was disoriented and off balance. I think it was from the very cold water. Out of transition there is a steep hill right away so I decided to put my shoes on and then clip in. I missed my clip in and had to stop. I guy 3 min behind me fell into me and almost knocked me over. I had to readjust my front brake but then was off.

Coming out of the park on the bike was tough. It was hill after hill with no flats and we were right into the wind. I picked off most of the field in the 4 miles coming out of the park. Being point to point we were into the wind 90% of the way. I passed everyone in my wave by mile 12 on the bike and most of the field. I drank an entire aerobottle of accelerade and forced myself to take a gel about mile 11. That proved costly. I ended with the 5th fastest bike split.

Coming off the bike my legs felt good and I was ready to run them down. The first hill is ridiculous. You don't really run up this hill. Coming up the hill I started to have abdominal cramps and some stomach upset—I'm sure from that GU on the bike. I had to run a slower pace than my legs and breathing could handle because of the stomach cramps. The first 1.5 is uphill which means the last 1.5 miles is downhill and this is a strength for me. I was able to up the pace a bit without increasing the effort and picked off a guy with less than a mile to go. I was hurting but tried to not let him know it and it worked. I ended up with the 4th fastest run split.

I was the 10th one in but only one was in my wave. I ended up 5th overall and handily won my age group. I was about 4 min off the winning time.

--Louis

RACE REPORT: Ben at Wildflower

2008-05-15T14:14:00.000-07:00

Last fall, when the weather started getting colder, when I hadn’t swam in a month, and was in general lacking motivation, I decided I should do the Wildflower ½ Ironman in north central California. My Uncle Matt lives in the area, and we had discussed doing a triathlon together, and it was 7 months away…it seemed like a great idea. After persuading several other Des Moiner’s to join the party, I registered the morning of December 1st (it never filled up so I probably didn’t need to wait by my computer that morning).

So it began. After recovering from a mid-January marathon and enlisting some help (Help = Reed), I started logging some hours in February. It quickly became apparent that putting down my bike for 8 weeks was very good for my running, not so much for my biking. Oh well, live and learn. February brought with it some early morning trainer sessions and the realization that it is possible to wake up before 5am. The highlight of training came the first week in March when I joined the ‘fast guys’ in Phoenix for five days of Man Camp. It was a great escape from the longest winter I can remember and a stark contrast to my three spring trips to Moab (In AZ we did not drink a 6-pack of PBR every night or get kicked out of our hotel). I fondly refer to Phoenix as the hardest vacation of my life.

The last few weeks leading up to Wildflower were not ideal. About three weeks out I got a sinus infection. About 10 days out, I crashed (hard) on the TNWC….beyond the torn bibs/bad taste in my mouth, I got a healthy dose of road rash on my left side. A week out, my dad called to tell me that my mom was having an emergency. I high-tailed it to the hospital for a couple of days and fortunately, saw her recover very quickly (thanks to everyone for thinking of us). I was more than a little shook up. I considered punting on the whole trip, but I’m quite certain mom would have killed me and, since I had done a good job of enlisting people to go out and stay with my uncle, I bucked up and stuck with the program.

JJ Bailey, Matt Zepeda, Krista Bartholomew, Dee Mable, David Primeau and I arrived in San Jose Thursday evening. My Uncle Matt, and my adorable little cousins, met us at the airport before grabbing a pasta dinner. Friday morning we relaxed a bit and eventually found the campsite Primeau had staked out for us. After setting up camp, we walked down the hill to check-in and go for a swim (For those of us who had our USAT information with us, check-in went smoothly. If someone in our group had forgotten that info, it may have taken them a little longer but their friends were happy to wait for him or her.). With goodie bags in hand, we went down to the water and took a dip. This being the first time I’d been in open water for the year, and with Wildflower being my 3rd triathlon (ever), it’s safe to say that I’m a little out of my comfort zone with 100+ people thrashing around me in a lake. It was nice to get that ‘my wetsuit might suffocate me’ feeling out of the way early.

Back at camp we finished assembling bikes. I quickly realized that I did not bring the spacer for my DA 10 rear cassette. Crap. My cassette was sloppily moving around and I had no hopes of keeping a chain on them….back to the expo. A cool dude wrenching at the bike shope gave me a spacer, his last, and said I needed to bring it back with a beer. I was delighted…back to camp. Problem #2 arose when the hub on the 404s I borrowed was spinning freely forward and back. Luckily, Matt had a rear 404 along that I could use (yes, I owe you). After a quick test run, taping power gel to my top tube, filling bottles and packing transition bags, it was dark and I was ready for bed.

I awoke a bit stiff from the a combination of sleeping on a hill, getting very cold and not having a pillow. Regardless, i was up and at 'em in time to get some food in my belly and mill around a bit waiting for the coffee to get hot (after watching my Uncle spend thirty minutes smashing coffee beans with a hammer the night before, I felt obligated). A quick change into race gear and Dee and I took off for transition. After quietly marching up the dirt trail, we jumped on our bikes and coasted down to transition. WIth only ~25 minutes until my wave start, I gave Dee a hug and wished her luck. A few minutes of organizing later, i was in my wetsuit headed towards the water. The butterflies had arrived.

My wave was to be the fourth of the morning which had me setting sail at 8:15. When the wave in front of mine took off, I jumped in the water and splashed around a bit. I tried to position myself in the top 1/3 of the field, which turned out to work pretty well. Even so, the first 200 yards sucked. They always do. Beyond the 90 degree RH turn, I managed to fall into a comfortable groove for the remainder of the out-and-back course. When I ran out of the water I was pleasantly surprised to see that I was under 32 minutes, much faster than I had expected.

The bike leg starts out with a series of S-curves before climbing ~1 mile out of the valley floor. I made a point to take it easy for the first half of the bike, not knowing what the remainder of the bike and run courses had in store. The bike course was well-supported and my aid station learning curve was steep. At the first aid station I fumbled a water, but by the end of the ride I was grabbing 2 waters, 2 power gel's and 1/2 a powerbar (I'm not really sure why I grabbed that much). The majority of the bike is a series of rollers and gradual descents/inclines with the exception being Nasty Grade, a ~1,000 ft climb that starts at mile 42. While the climb isn't crazy steep, you'll be happy you packed all of your gears. I rolled into transition feeling pretty fresh, but a bit slower than I had hoped (2:55).

I'm new to triathlon butI'm told the bike is where you win and the run is where you lose. A fast bike ride doesn't mean much if you have to walk the last 5 miles. With that in mind, using my watch as a guage, I set off hoping to hold a 7:30 pace. The run is ~60% dirt/gravel trail and 40% hard surface and constantly hilly. I mean really hilly. Miles 1-3 were rolling along Lake San Antonio and were rather scenic if you took the time to look, but miles 3-5ish were brutal. The 7:30 pace I held the first couple of miles skyrocketed up to somewhere around 10 minutes while I trudged (but didn't walk) up the wickedly pitched trail. I vividly remember passing a guy as he vomited on himself who said "I'm fine" as I passed. Good enough.

Beyond mile 5 the course began to resemble something I could survive. College students manned the water stops and provided plenty of water, even for an idiot wearing all black on an 80 degree day. I'll have a special place in my heart for the guy who took a drink of his Natural Light as he gave me a water...classy. At mile 7 I did some sketchy math that told me I was 2 minutes off of my 7:30 pace. By now I had my legs were back under me and I began to pick up the pace.

Most of the last 5 miles of the run go thru campgrounds which provided a good number of spectators to help bring it home. Around mile 9, I felt good. I knew I was rolling the dice, having consumed ~10 power gels while ratcheting up the pace, but I was going for broke. It felt great to let 'er eat. No thinking, no analyzing, just run like mad and hope you can hold on til the end. I probably picked up 100 spots in the last 5 miles and I was loving it. The last few months of training began to flow thru my mind and it was very satifsying to let it all hang out. With about a mile to go, I started the very steep downhill to the finish. I ran as fast as I could without falling down. I ended up crossing the line in ~5:08, beating my unpublished goal time of 5:15.

That night I continued to test my stomach’s limits by eating/drinking recovery food in the form of a burrito, a few Guinness and a tub of ice cream. Ah, back to reality.

Thanks for reading.
--Ben

RACE REPORT: Patrick at Kysilis Biathlon

2008-05-06T09:52:00.000-07:00

Having warmed up with the Drake Relays on the Roads 8K run Saturday morning, at noon I headed north to Nevada, Iowa for the first annual Kyrsilis Biathlon.

Leaving aside the fact that the term "biathlon" usually denotes an event with some element of riflery [ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biathlon ], I'd noticed this event on the Fitness Sports race calendar earlier in the week and assumed it involved some mix of biking and running. Thinking it'd be a good smaller event at which a person might knock the winter rust off his TT skills, yet not knowing what to expect in terms of an event, I made the trip.

Arriving at the race site, I was encouraged to see a makeshift transition area. I'd seen course markings and police along the route, too— both good signs. Once registered, I geared up and spent the remaining time talking my legs into racing for a second time that day.

Surveying the 50 or so in the field, it looked like some cyclists and some runners, but I won't b.s. you-- perhaps not many triathletes/duathletes. That it appeared to be more of an event and less a highly competitive race was fine; I'd still treat it as such and make the most of race-atmosphere training. The distances would be a 15-mile bike followed by a 5k run.

As with what our DS5K road team dealt with at the Iowa City road race, the wind in Nevada was nothing short of howling. The bike course was 3 laps of a north/south out-and-back 5-mile loop. The straight-line express was straight out of the west, with virtually no landmark slowing it down. As we all know from Elkhart experience, this is rural Iowa.

After a brief course talk by the race director, we rolled to the start line. (Thankfully Ben Garrett wasn't there to jedi mind-trick me onto the pavement.) I'd asked the race director during the course talk if drafting would be allowed, and she answered that it would be. Given that 100% of my multisport events this year won't be, I decided I'd stick with a non-drafting mindset. The start command was given, and we were off.

Heading out, I rolled to the front. My plan was to ride steady on laps 1 and 3, and go hard on lap 2. Riding Zipp 808s with an aero frame, allow me to say that the gigantic crosswind was making things "interesting." I'm not sure I've encountered handling issues of that magnitude before, but it certainly gave me something to keep my mind off the mileage.

At the first turnaround at mile 2.5, I found myself with a 30-second gap on a pack of five. The benefit of frequent turnarounds (every 2.5 miles), of course, is being able to monitor what's happening behind you. Eventually the chase packs broke into smaller factions, and by the end of the windy 15 miles, I had what I estimated to be five minutes plus on second place.

The 5k run was an out-and-back on the same road as the bike course, and the opening was flat, thankfully, as once out on the run I was reminded of the 8k already in the legs from that morning (though the first mile of running off the bike never feels too swell, regardless). I got into a rhythm and concentrated on keeping the pace high with a quick and light turnover.

There were a couple decent rollers in miles 2 and 3 to make it a true workout, and I felt better as the run went on. A quarter mile from the finish, the second place finisher was heading out on the 5k. Because the Death Squad is a squad with a human heart, I high-fived him and offered wholesome words of encouragement. I rolled to the finish line and notched a win for the Rassy's triathlon team.

--Patrick

PS A member of the Rassy's mountain bike team was out there tearing it up, as well, though I can't recall his name. Good to see the orange cammo mixing it up in a multisport setting.

PPS Word to the wise: keep an eye on tri team member Louis DeWild, who is setting PRs left and right, including a scorching 1:17:07 (5:56 pace) half marathon at the Drake Half on Saturday. And after he dragged me around for two hours on TT bikes yesterday, I can confirm that this dude has wheels-a-plenty.

RACE REPORT: Jeff in Columbia, MO

2008-05-06T09:45:00.000-07:00

Drive 9.0 hours roundrip to Columbia Missouri-$140
Hotel in Columbia, Missouri-$100
Breaking your chain 3.7 miles into bike leg of triathlon-Priceless

End of "race report".

--Jeff

p.s.-I did carve off 17 seconds from my swim time over my race two
weeks ago.

RACE REPORT: Lou in Iowa City

2008-05-06T09:43:00.000-07:00

What would Iowa City be without crazy wind? Today it came from the west at 25mph making for a nasty section between turns 4 and 1. The race is 5 laps - 65 miles which is just perfect and the course is set on beautiful rolling hills in Ahmesh country. In fact, Iowa city and Altoona are very similar.

Today's field was stacked with large teams from Grand Performance, ISCorp, Trek Midwest, All Nine Yards, Mercy Specialized, Bike 2 You, and a few other miscellaneous "onezy, twozy's", including 3 very attractive rockstars wearing all black (Cam Kirkpatrick, Tony Nichols and Yours Truly). I'd guess around 60-80 in all. A nice P12 field.

From the starting whistle the peleton blasted, and I mean blasted into the crosswind section. We were railing it while tipped at a 45 degree angle just to stay upright. Just that first effort gapped the field. The we turned east and let the tailwind push us at 46 mph for 5 miles. That's pretty much how every lap went. So it was important while heading west toward the start/finish line to maintain contact with the main group but save enough to redline it as you turn the corned into the crosswinds section.

On lap #2 Brian Stolte and Lee Venteicher got way with a guy from IS Corp and Mercy. That left only GP and us to do the work to pull them back.

Cam and Tony were both feeling fresh and eager to move to the front. We decided to hold off for a lap hoping that someone else would to the work. Plus, with the Iowa Cup in mind it was better to have a breakaway containing non-Iowa folks (excluding Lee and the Mercy guy who are not in the top 5 on points).

On lap 3 one of the WI teams went to the front and started setting tempo so Cam and Tony joined in and did a perfect job in bringing the breakaway back in.

On lap 4, in the wind section, a small gap of 4 guys formed up the road, and then another of 4 including me. As my group rounded the corner into the tailwind section I put the hammer down. The other guys in tow, we rolled at 45-46 until we caught the lead group. Now there were 8 of us and I thought we were the winning break for sure. But after only a few half-hearted rotations, the main peleton caught us and we were all together again. Cam rode at the front with me, but Tony was absent. It was only after the race that we discovery that he had crossed wheels with someone on the hill just as our breakaway had gotten caught, and went down. He said that he got up immediately but could not reattach with the group into the 25 mph winds. He is taking home a big ol' strawberry on his arss as a souvenir. Not a scratch on the bike though. Nice work today Tony! I could tell you were having a blast and riding strong!

Immediately Trek and IS Corp attacked and were gone again. The peleton let them go. Cam and I decided to sit in and hope for help from the larger teams (recurring theme, I know).

On lap 5 the tempo began to be set. First we caught ISCorp then finally Trek. With 4 miles to go on the final approach, were all together and it was up to me to seal the deal.

With the finishing line just over the hill, my strategy was to roll up the inside. Not usually the best line but with the winds pushing the peleton toward the centerline which was being strictly enforced, I hoped that a lane would open up on the inside. With 500 to go I was sitting perfect - 2 trek guys ahead and then clear blue skies. I stood up and shifted down with 300 to go. All of a sudden both of them sat up! WTF? Their boy was off the front. I grabbed a big handful of brakes as I hit wheels with Stolte. I unclip my left foot and slid along to stay upright. Crap! I clipped back in and crossed the line on the back of the main field - 15th or so. I am not sure of the final results but I think I heard that Trek won. Although the rest of us felt like we were in the hunt, those boys in red, even without Steve Tilford, were in control all day long. Sad but true.

BIG bummer. It is so disappointing to work all day, have such good legs, and have my teammates pour our their guts out only to have something unexpected happen. I can't really fault anyone but myself. In the end, my strategy was probably poor. I should have attacked early and hoped to hold it.

But keeping things in perspective: a bad cycling result, while frustrating, is still better then a great day at the office.

I talked to Cam, who had a great time. Tony was walking gingerly from the crash, but I think he had a chance to remember how much fun bike racing is. I thought about Nate Bartels a couple of times today (the 4th member of the Rasmussen's P12 squad) who was traveling on business. I can't wait to get all 4 of us together in a few races this year.

Finally, my traveling partners; Pete Basso, Brent Mitchell and Kris Kunze - all cat 3's. Their report was all good. Despite drawing the short straw when the peleton spit on lap 3 (in the crosswind section of course), they all worked well and finished together.

Loren Storts finished 4th in his first race ever.

As of now I have not gotten a report from the masters.

From a results standpoint, no bragging rights were earned today, yet we all rode respectably. We executed well and collectively had good fitness. As a team, we are young, strong and very positive. In the end, we showed courtesy, perseverance and indomitable spirit. Nobody quit, nobody was seriously injured. Sometimes finishing results aren't the only measure of success. We will keep executing and the results will follow.

--Lou

RACE REPORT: Jeff in Indiana

2008-05-06T09:36:00.000-07:00

I was in Indiana for a family wedding, and was lucky enough to find a race that was open on Sunday morning-and got permission on the home front.

This was a very short race as it was a 400 meter swim, 10 mile bike, and a 3.1 mile swim. Talked with Loran Storts(coach) and he said "let's just see how the training has gone so far this winter- brother let the clutch out." With that input I was off to race.

Sunday morning up at 5:10 grab a quick bite to eat in the hotel lobby and leave for the race a 5:40.

Get to race, I really wasn't sure what to expect from this event. I was amazed to find that this was really starting to look like a real talented pool of triathletes. I came to find out that there was some $$$ and a great set of wheels available for winners-so the big guns come out seeking the goody.

After a nice warm-up in the rain I made my way inside to the pre-race meeting. Normal meeting, but I was a amazed that it looked like there were 300-450 people there(official total I later learned was 492)

The swim was in the Carmel aquatic center's 50 meter pool. It was a staggered(self-seeded) 400 meter "snake" swim. Where you go down one lane then go under the lane line and return in the next lane. I seeded myself in the 1:20-1:35 group and went off with a group of folks setting in the 1:30 range.

Swim starts and I find that I should have seeded myself a bit faster, or the folks ahead of me should have seeded themselves a bit slower. I immediatley close the 4-5 people ahead of me and just basically set in their wake as they were swimming in a pack and didn't want to waste a bunch of juice until they really slowed. Finally passed on flip turn from lap 2-lap 3. Swim felt real solid and I swam right at 1:20(per the race clock) but I think that my Polar was more accurate in saying 1:30.

Transition to bike was a bit slow. But head out on the bike. Lots of comfort on the bike except the two speed bumps that were on the downhill out of T1. Bike was really solid(for me) and pulled a 21.2 mph split and knocked out the bike in 28:34.

Transition to run(my weakest sport it is important to note that in all of my previous races I have never gotten below a 9:00/mile run-in any race.) Out of T2 decide to trust my training this winter and open up the HR into the Z3 range.

Mile 1-7:59 First thought-they must have missed the mile marker placement. Let's see what mile 2 looks like-Nobody passed me in the first mile-weird.

Mile 2-7:54 No kidding? Well this is amazing, let's see what happens here on mile 3. Couple of dudes pass me.

Mile 3+.1-7:42 Wow. Kick into finish line was ok. Crossed finish line and realized that I had just gone 1:01'ish.

Great day for me. Huge PR. Finished in 4th place in my division just outside the "money". Irritated with myself about that as I later learned that 18 secs between me and 3rd-I know now to dig deeper. Overall finished in the top 20% and know that I have a bit more speed in my legs than I ever realized.

Several folks asked me about my Rassy's kit-got to share the story. This was a great race! As I mentioned earlier the race was FAST. First place was a 45 minute total for the entire race-amazing!

I look forward to Race for Sight in two weeks.

Thanks Loran!

--Jeff

RACE REPORT: Brent at Finchford Roubaix

2008-05-06T09:24:00.000-07:00

At the start of the race, it was sunshine and 38 degrees with 20 mph winds. Bikes 2 You was represented by Bryan Moritz and Will Greenwood. Melon City had three guys, including Chad Bishop, who recently upgraded, making this his first race as a Cat 3. The Rasmussen Death Squad was represented by Pete Basso and myself. Representing A9Y’s was The Robinson Bros and Matt Gumm. They were delayed to the race a little when Gumm’s bike became detached from his roof rack, flipped over and shattered the back window of Scott’s car. I am sure they thought it was the Rasmussen Death Squad shooting at them. Gumm ended up riding Steve’s wife’s bike for the race. He raced one of his better races this week, so maybe Gummi will bring Steve’s wife’s bike the Tuesday Night World Championships??

On lap one of the ten lap, (50 mile race), Will Greenwood (Bikes2you) took a daring attempt (into the high winds) and goes on a solo break. It stuck for over a lap but was eventually reeled back in.

After Will came back to the group, there were a couple more attempts to roll off the front. Scott Robinson takes a solo break as well, however they all proved to be futile. Each one came back Scott was riding very strong today and held the break for over a lap and a half before coming back to the group.

After controlling the front of the peloton most of the race, Basso faded off the back only to spend a half lap chasing back on. With two laps to go cramps had set in pretty hard causing him fall off the peloton for a final time. Matt Gumm (A9Y) and Chad Bishop (Melon City) went off the front. With those two off the front, and Basso off the back, there was little cooperation from the others to chase this break down since there were only two of us (Dominic and myself) that did not have a teammate in the break. So Chad and Matt, were able to put some distance on the field. Gummi began to show signs of fatigue and faded back to the peloton, Chad stayed strong off the front remaining solo in the break.

With Chad off the front, we were not going to be able to catch him. So it was clearly coming down to a field sprint for 2nd place. On the last 1/3 of the last lap there was some cat and mouse going on to get positioned for the sprint. Nobody wanted to stick their nose out in the wind for the sprint too early. In the last ½ mile, Scott Robinson went to the front. With a little less than 200 yards to go, Dominic comes around Scott for the sprint followed by Steve Robinson, and myself. Steve came around Dominic and with about 50 yards to go, and I was able to come around Steve and clip him at the line by about a foot to take the field sprint for 2nd place.

Hats off to Chad Bishop for being able to stay off the front, and also to Scott Robinson for riding a very strong race. Great racing with Steve Robinson and Matt Gumm.

Results:

1) Chad Bishop (Melon City)

2) Brent Mitchell (Rasmussen Death Squad 5,000)

3) Steve Robinson (All9Yards)

4) Dominic Moraniec (Atlas)

5) Scott Robinson (All9Yards)

6) Matt Gumm (All9Yards)

7) Pete Basso (Rasmussen Death Squad 5,000)

DNF Chris Reed (HBA) DNF Ian Robinson (HBA)

DNF Bryan Moritz (Bikes 2 You)

DNF Will Green Wood (Bikes 2 you)

Also congrats to:

1) Lou Waugaman for a clear win in the field sprint in the Pro 1!2 to take 4th Place.
2) In other Rassy Team news, Reed Rinderknect and Loren Storts were participating in the Iron Man in Tempe on Sunday. With top ten finishes these two could qualify for a spot in the Kona Ironman this fall.
3) PRC Girls - Kellie Mente and Jane Riessen ventured over to Lincoln to participate in their racing this weekend. The woman’s racing was fierce with a couple of Cat 1 racers showing up from out of state. They were not strong enough to break to the deadly combination of the PRC team. On Day 1 Kellie and Jane take 1st and 2nd respectively. This is Kellie's first win in the open category. Nicely done! Day 2: Jane Riessen out lasted the peloton for a 1st place finish with Kelli Mente driving home a 3rd place finish. Great job ladies, keep up the incredible work.

--Brent

RACE REPORT: Reed at IM Arizona

2008-05-06T09:19:00.000-07:00

As I watched the 10 day forecast, I was laughing at severe warming trend that looked to be peaking the day of Ironman Arizona. Turns out it was the hottest day of the year in Tempe, so far. When Loran Storts and I signed up for the race, I prayed for 2 things: 1. That we would have a decent winter, so I could ride outside some. 2. That it would not be a brutally hot and windy day. Obviously God had another plan as we had the worst winter in recent history and the temps topped out at 96 degrees and 15-20 mph winds on the bike course.

I will start with the thank-you’s. First of all, my wife, Kristin, kids, Josh and Kassy, for their unconditional support and love, it just wouldn’t be possible without them on board 110%. My best pal and training partner, Loran Storts, who is my soul-brother and who pedaled and ran virtually every step with me. My folks and my mother-in-law, brothers, sisters, friends, Foster Group co-workers, all were dream makers. The Rassy Tri Team men and women that wrote me notes and provided feedback and support. Greg Rasmussen, Sterly, DQ, Terry, Jeff….you guys are rockstar…more on this later. Jenny, JJ, Matt from Zoom Performance, friends and partners in this journey. Nicole and Tim DeBoom, 2-time Hawaii Ironman World Champion, friend, and coach this year…..This guy knows what it takes….as does Nicole, Wisconsin IM champ and President of Skirtsports. www.skirtsports.com

My training leading up to the race went as close to perfect as I could ever hope. Despite having to be inside on the Compu-Trainer for many EARLY hours per week, I never went totally mental. Breaking this up with several movies and friends that came over to ride was the key. I was very blessed to make several trips to Arizona (my folks winter down there) and get a lot of riding in while vacationing and working. The 3rd thing that I prayed for was to arrive on race day healthy and injury free. This was in God’s plan.

I was complaining to Coach Tim about the heat and a few other things and his response was simple. “You better just ready to suck it up! Start worrying about things that are in your control, not the things that are out of your control.” O.k, I thought, he should know. So, I quit checking the weather and focused on my preparations. Flew down to Phoenix on Wednesday with the kids, got in late, but made it safely. Put the bike together that night and got some sleep.

Thursday, Kristin, the kids, and I went up to Tempe and Ironman Village….the energy was already building. Wanted to get in a short swim, but they only had open swim times from 8-10 am in Tempe Town Lake. We got there at 10:01am. Went and got registered and stopped by the merchandise tent. My weight was a concern and focus this year. I have been racing at 193-195 and although around 10-11% body fat, I knew losing a few pounds would help my running a ton. Weight at check-in….183…perfect.

Took an easy spin Thursday with Dad for 45 minutes and relaxed. Got up Friday and Kristin and I went back up to Tempe for a swim in the Lake….(more like a drainage ditch) water temp was a cool 65 degrees, but felt great after a few minutes. Tried out the new 2008 Blue Seventy Helix long sleeve wetsuit. It was absolutely the best fit I’ve ever had.

Saturday, I did my normal pre-race. 10 minute swim, 20 minute bike, 10 minute run. All week, I was feeling just o.k. Not until race day did I really feel good. I told DeBoom about this and his advice was this: “by the way, you are very ready for this. it doesn't matter one bit how you feel this week. good, bad, great...nothing matter till race day. it will be there. don't do anything stupid this week to derail yourself.” Again, very wise advice from a pro….i trusted him and my fitness and said, o.k., let’s do it.

Stortsy and I were able to go together to Transition and get all of our stuff done…special needs bags, swim to bike and bike to run bags. Pump the tires, fill the water bottles, final checks, etc…that makes it very relaxed when you have a pal alongside. We got a few pictures and then I headed to the Porta-John for one last break.

TJ and the Pros went off at 6:45. I entered the water immediately afterwards. Got a very short warm up in, should have done more, but wanted to get my spot in front of the starting line. Was able to get 2/3 to the right and front row. Canon went off and we were stroking. I swam in pretty clear water and after 200-300 yards, looked for a draft. The water was so dirty, you couldn’t see straight and we were swimming into the sun. I felt just o.k., and swam off to the right about 15 times and worked to get back into the draft. Started to finally settle in at the turnaround and then got very concerned. Both calves started to cramp up. Had to stop several times and grab my toes to relieve the cramp. Not sure of the reasoning, but I decided to just do what I could to make it to the end….even if I had to slow down and give up a few minutes.

I was relieved to exit in 59 minutes…a bit slower than I expected, but tried not to be too concerned, I knew it was a long day and 2-3 minutes would be easily gained or lost on the run. A quick transition and I was on the 2008 Rassy Orbea Ordu. If you haven’t seen this thing, it is super stealthy with matching Zipp 999’s (black/silver) DQ did a great job getting me the bike and getting me fit. Greg, Sterly, jeff, and Terry spent 4 hours getting a cable thing taken care of 2 days earlier. Thanks guys! It proved to be worth the time and effort. Bike was 5:04:57, I had the 9th fastest amateur bike split…less than a minute from 5th, I believe. The fastest amateur was only 5 minutes in front of me and the only guy that outsplit me in my age group blew up and ran a 4:46 marathon.

The bike was 3 loops. 18.5 miles into the wind and then back with the wind. The first loop everyone was excited, as usual, and many pushed the pace. I settled in and watched for people to self-destruct. Relax, stay aero, hydrate, food, stretch, enjoy the moment. As we hit the turn-around, it was like Christmas. I was 53-11 almost the whole way back to town. The wubba, wubba, wubba of the Zipp disk was saweet. My plan was to really relax on the second loop, as it was getting HOT, and conserving energy would pay huge dividends. I had to pee and couldn’t get it rolling on the bike, so I decided to hold it until mile 62 went I stopped to get the Special Needs Bag. Got my refills of Clif Bars, and Carbo-Pro (frozen the night before and put in my special needs bag) ahh, a nice cold shot of Carbo pro mixed with Crystal light…, took a 2 minute pee and hopped back on. A great stretch break and although I gave up 1 ½ to 2 minutes…I enjoyed every second and felt refreshed on the bike. My plan was to make my serious move on the 3rd loop into the wind and then relax and cruise the last 20 miles of the bike with the wind and get hydrated and fed. It worked perfectly. Being a 3 loop ride, the bike course was a mine field of people that had blown up and others that were in process. I tried to springboard past everyone, but quite honestly, most were not going fast enough to get any kind of boost as you go by. One rider almost took me out as I came up to pass, note to self, don’t get too close to inexperienced riders.

I don’t remember ever feeling a lot more joy than hitting that final turnaround and heading for T2. As I jumped off the bike, I looked at the bike transition area. Other than pros, I could only see 5-6 bikes in the whole field. I had a quick T2, ice in the hat, sponge on the back, gel in the fuel belt. I ran out onto the run course and immediately get passed by TJ Tollakson who was starting his 2nd loop…cool! The next person I see was Ashley Tousely, TJ’s girlfriend. She yelled, great job, Reed, you’re in 7th! I’m thinking, cool…7th place in my age group, 10-11 spots for Kona…I can give up a net 3 and still be in the running. I didn’t find out later that she mean’t 7th OVERALL, 2nd in my age group! A Good thing, because about mile 4, 2 guys in my age group go clipping by me at warp speed, they ran 3:15 marathons…mile 6, another 38 year old who ran 3:16.

My plan was to run the first loop easy, pick it up slightly on the second loop and lay it out there on the third and see what happens. I think I was too excited to see TJ, because I kept him in sight the first 3 miles…ran 7:20 and 7:35, then forced myself to slow down to 8…the rest of the day, I stayed mellow and ran 8:15- 8:30 minute miles with a 20-30 second walk through each water stop to keep hydrated and cool. Ice in the hat, down the shorts, cold sponge on the back/neck. Refill every mile. I switched to Coca-Cola at mile 9. this was somewhat of a gamble this early, but I thought I could make it work. Despite a 90 second stop to pee about mile 16, I still kept on pace. As I passed my family at the end of the second loop, I yelled “One more!” my wife, Kristin, who said she only cried 3 or 4 times during the day, yelled to me, “Nicole DeBoom said run with ice in your hands to keep cool!” I must have looked worse than I felt, because I didn’t think I was deaf, just tired! I was laughing because she yelled it loud enough that it wasn’t a secret any longer. I was calculating my time and was on track to finish around 10 hours, which I thought would be enough on a day that topped out at 96 degrees. The last 5.7 miles I was able to pick it up and run 8’s + 30 seconds for water stops. My last 2 miles were 7:45 and 7:15. Arizona is awesome because I could see my family and friends about 10-12 times during the day. This is critical when racing an Ironman….you look forward to seeing them each time. Kristin, Josh, Kassidy, Mom, Dad, Tom Hamilton, Marc Gillotti, Jenny Weber, Michelle Ennis, Jan Mohs, Amy Hanrahan, Jenny Storts, Julie V, Ashley Tousley. The more the better, for sure.

Turning the corner to the finish line, I spied my son, Josh, age 9, crouched like he was ready to receive the baton. He grabbed my hand and we sprinted to the finish line. 9:58:08. A 53 minute improvement on my time from IM Wisconsin 18 months earlier. The finish line is the best….hugs, tears, high 5’s, laughing, crying, yelling…it is surreal. I just thanked God for getting me across the line. I felt fine for about 10 minutes, but then things went south and I was wheeled over to medical for the next 3 hours….3 IV bags later I went home and to bed. I woke up at 3:00am and ate some Cheerios and had a glass of Chocolate Milk. I couldn’t get back to sleep because I was worried that I would sleep past 9:00 am which was the Hawaii sign up deadline. At 9:01 they give your slot to someone else.

At the Ironman Hawaii sign up, I was expecting a dozen Hawaiian girls to be dancing in their skirts as they called out your name and requested your presence to register..all the while the hula girls would be rubbing your shoulders and waving palm branches….HA! some dude asked you your name and then says, “O.k. that will be $500.”

As I sat down to register, TJ came up and grabbed me with a big hug and congrats. We got to register for Kona together. A nice end to a great journey.

--Reed

Official Bike Shop of Hy-Vee Triathlon

2006-01-19T22:06:00.000-08:00

We are stoked to announce that Rasmussen Bike Shop will be the official bike shop of the 2008 Hy-Vee Triathlon! On June 22nd, 2008 athletes from all over the world will gather in Des Moines to compete for the largest purse in triathlon history: $700,000.00! Register today for history in the making.