24 hours 7 days a week

Its sad leaving the riding routine, but transition rest and autumn running is a special time of the year.

2011-12-03T21:56:00.001-07:00

Its sad leaving the riding routine, but transition rest, autumn running and pow is a special time.

Of the mountains in town, Mt Fernie has been my favourite run this year taking 52 minutes for the ascent to 6000' up moccasin (left side) and hour on heikos (right side). Running this mountain thru seasons I have accumulated different feets and still experimenting, Salomon hike boots, Salomon S-Lab, Sorel snow boot, snow shoe - the floor is ever changing.

Now into full winter swing snow shoe runs up Mt Fernie are around 1hr to about 300ft from top, the trail is getting steeper with snow pack and its all up. One thing, snow shoe skiing in pow on the way down is awesome.

Yes its sad leaving riding, but wouldn't have to stop if I had one of these I could still be bombing trails right now. FatbackTi

Its white outside and sledding, skiing should be what its about but I'm still thinking bike and deciding between Carousel vs Revelate bags, seems Carousel is more slimline.

Happy trails, off for a run up the mountain.

twas the season of work, mountain missions on foot and 2 wheels.

2011-11-05T22:16:00.000-06:00

Six in Stix Enduro Cranbrook

Cranbrook BC enduro, 6hrs in the Stix was a fun race to close out 2011, chasing riding buddies for 7 laps measured a 4th place in 40+ category, 8500ft climbing and 94km.

The season just passing marked another phase of change and advancement working with CTS Coach Lawrence Mize but with little racing for the year just one 24 hour solo and 6 hour enduro.

Taking time to look at efficiency on the two wheel machine, better running, life, work and rest was needed for a kind of reset and will serve well in 2012. There is definitely technique in setting attainable race schedules when your a family man and worker. Simplifying life to open time for competition is a creative challenge that doesn't always work out, but when it does and I see the kids in full excitement the trial and effort to making these moments for the family becomes all worth it.

This year riding the Gary Fisher Superfly 29er I discovered a whole new machine on the up and cadilac on the down, a fun bike to race, and has increased my overall speed, it has served me well. This hardtail 29er is my next venture into pedal powered efficiency, I think it will suite my blue collar working style.

This year I rode some longer distance rides that took me to scenic rich areas of the Upper Waterton Lakes National Park and around the Elk Valley, BC my home. There's something intriguing of long distance rides, the curiosity of what happens, the logistic of fuel and water source, a topic of endless contemplation for those searching for the minimalist setup and practice to venture on big distance.

Flathead Valley

Consistent training, efficiency on the bike, recovery, integration with family and physically demanding job is not a challenge, its an art. An art that gets better and takes shape with persistence and time.

Well I had a taste of what would be involved in adding altitude to training, living at 3000' and having access to 6000'-8000' to train by bike and foot could arguably be a plus. Training at elevation around these parts is achievable but not the easiest of things, the Leadville 24hr course climbs to 12 000' so I will be revisiting the altitude thing with the Coach when its time.

Fulfilling training requirements this summer I found myself reaching stunning Canadian Rocky isolations, a good accumulation of experiences in the mountains.

Over time the randomness of the mountains becomes predictable, ride after ride on the same connector trails, over the same mountain passes, roads and routes home, the weather changed the same way, cold wet miserable was miserable wet and cold, head winds out, head winds back, animal detours in their usual spots, hot glaring suns, dusty trails and freak storms, I enjoyed it all.

The riding season is short here, I'm gonna miss it but not for too long for I will be in Australia after the turn of the year and riding bikes early.

All in all this year I had a good volume of hard working rides and runs, I have worn out a number of my @Swiftwick socks, they have served me well.

The fall colours are gone, now its all snow and a whole different collection of gear and clothing.

Thanks TrekBikes, Hammer Nutrition, Swiftwick, Sportmulti, Guides Hut and CTS for the year, see you in 2012.

One More Lap - TwoFour Spokane

2011-05-30T19:05:00.044-06:00

Recovering after 25 hours of race time I feel cleansed, humbled and possibly wiser than before Round and Round Spokane began.

Although I didn't hit my target at Spokane there were successes to this self support, lap pacing was better, followed a race plan and maintained focus on time and efficiency all race, end result 7th place, 16 laps.

The end result was a bit confusing for me for I had it at 17 laps, I had two sources of intel, the timing tent was telling me to chase #25 (that was always a lap ahead and finishing with 18 laps) and friends in team next door had me at 17 laps.

Spokane is a well organised event, its a fun course with a few short rock garden sections (that seem to get rougher each year) and although no rain during the race this year there were big puddles on course from waters falling the week before, all in all a very race friendly route that doesn't really bottleneck.

This time around I had no appetite to eat and lived on @HammerNutrition. Perpetuem and Endurolyte pills kept me moving and could only manage to peck at jubes, cashews, dumplings and some potatoes.

Being sick and taking antibiotics I stopped the medication Friday morning before leaving and wonder if this was the reason for no appetite. My Wife made all this food for me and I didn't touch it, so I'm stuffing face right now that my appetite is back.

HammerNutrition Perpetuem is an amazazing product, this was the first race virtually fuelling all liquid and was great to build confidence in a product that satisfies the stomach and provides a consistent energy level, it simplifies the #solo effort.

Simplifying my fuelling strategy to HammerNutrition products and even reducing the selection of Hammer products used has been the ticket to completing 24 hours with a clear head, no dosing, lasting power and legs firing snappy to the end. This race I was living on perpetuem for calories per hour, endurolyte pills for electrolyte profile replenishment per hour and whatever nibbles I could get down. This simplified fuelling version reduced the stress on the stomach and proved to myself that less is better than more when it comes to ultra-endurance.

For some reason this first race of the season seemed harder this year than last, maybe because I was freezing for so long, lacking the usual training volume or both. Lining up at the back on the startline to avoid the kicking and screaming, the run was fine, did a couple good laps to then get cramps lap 3. Switching to the other Top Fuel with a slightly lower post height I rode around cramps for a few hours to be better around 10pm lap 7.

Lap 8 cramps gone, but now cold and have nasty knee pains when out of the saddle. Midnight arrived, was behind on the lap schedule, still no appetite, took a dose of ibuprofen for the knees, was cold till the morning and knee pain was back around 8am.

Lap 9 was about riding end half of lap in the dark after battery ran out and catching the wheel of a gentleman from the Spokane Fire Department that brought me to the timing tent (thankyou Sir), rather exciting happening for around 2am.

Lap 10 around 3.30am, still no solid food appetite, freezing cold, living off Perpetuem and jubes. This lap I had a confusing moment, staring at the endurolyte bottle I was trying to figure if I just took the 4 endurolyte pills or was I just about to. A lap later I realised that I hadn't taken the pills and needed to figure a system in the pit so I didn't get confused again.

With a good lap 11, lap 12, knees were aching again, needed to up my lap speed but couldn't get out of the saddle for long and started figuring lap count and lap times needed to close out the race.

Per my thought for the past hours I needed to clock laps at most 01:25 in order to arrive before midday so to go out on one more lap, which at the time I thought was to be #17. Arriving around 11.30am I was finally warming up, my knees were feeling the crunch but with 30 minutes to go I couldn't sit around and went out on one more lap.

Besides some disorganisation in the pit with a few moments of frustration when I couldn't find things the self support played out pretty good. Even though it didn't rain I went thru 2 pairs of @swiftwick twelves, 2 pairs of @swiftwick fours, multiple pairs of gloves, 2 pairs of shoes, shorts and 4 jerseys, the crazy thing is that I needed more dry clothing.

After the race I got asked, what do you solo riders think of during races ? My answer was "you really gotta do a 24solo in order to appreciate the answer to this its different for everybody, what goes thru your mind depends on how your going, how your training has been, where you are in life, what you want from life, 24solo reduces a person to a primal state so the thinking gets pretty deep sometimes emotional".

Thanks to my CTS Coach Lawrence Mize, @HammerNutrition and @Swiftwick that made my race.

TwoFour Spokane - riding in circles

2011-05-09T01:56:00.019-06:00

the prospect of cold and wet weather doesnt exactly make for great preparatory thoughts, this week of 24hr spokane I find myself abit erratic but all in the name of getting ready to ride for a day and do a self support.

going over gear, and packing to hitch a ride is a minimization process and have it down to: 1 bike (was hoping 2 bikes), bike stand, 10x10 tent, 50gal mobile tool box, 75L dry bag, 1 medium size cooler of premade food, sleeping bag & mat, 2 slabs water, 15 water bottles, $50USD in hand, bag of @hammernutrition, 1 x 130lbs rider

this first 24hour of the year is a grab bag of miles to kick off the season, the plan is to stoke the engine and chug along for twofour in 5hour blocks, sometimes pitting can take a lot out of your sails so looking to get used to stopping less and moving consistently.

big snows this winter limited early season riding but found some off road climbs close by that bake in the sun, these dried up quick and made cold days bearable this spring. although winter's cycling volume is not where it usually is and had some bouts of sickness, I put in some quality snow shoe running time and interested to see if I feel any benefits this twentyfour.

on top of 3 kids my wife makes these races happen for me, I see a full stock of @hammernutrition on the shelf, she has done some baking and will make a cooler of food that gets me out the door and back - I just add water.

I am privileged on having a very supportive network and thankful for I would not otherwise reach new levels, so loading up on gear, carbs, race day boost and rest, getting my head where it needs to be and will be ready to do a good effort to represent

See you in twitterland during round and round - Follow http://twitter.com/#!/jessemong

"Suffering is humbling. It pays to know how to get your butt kicked." - Caballo Blanco

2011-03-16T23:04:00.021-06:00

Spring rides are a box of chocolates and not always tasty.

The previous weekend, rides were 4hrs of melting snow, rain and graupel showers one day and 3andhalf hours of snow flurries the other not giving any free rolling miles. This Easter weekend was sun and firmish ground that made it feel like you had legs and actually enjoying the roll.

All in all good to get solid days on the bike in various weather conditions and have the right layers to keep dry'ish and warm (enough).

Impressed with the Top Fuel drivetrain the other week, barely made it back last 20km with deraileur and cables icing up. Spring storms are trickier than winter snow storms, never thought to carry de-icer.

The winter felt long with some downtime with pneumonia after working and running in a lot of foul weather, twas a swift kick in the nuts and was relegated to short easy dog walks. However not all was lost for the first half of winter had quality snow running miles as a base prep for Alaskan 100miler - Susitna.

[ If there's been a saving grace in challenging weather, its these gloves below. ]

Next race on the roll:

May 28th Spokane WA, Round and Round 24 Hour.

Early season 24solo, friendly course, friendly event, great river locale.

Something went haywire in my head this winter, twofours have been about being at the mercy of personal demons, this year I am chasing these demons down and droppin them at 2am.

"Suffering is humbling. It pays to know how to get your butt kicked." - Caballo Blanco

Hate running out of @Sportmulti gold, supplements are not cheap these days when your looking to consume all year round, cant say enough about the Sportmulti product and how the company helps athletes.

TRX Suspension Training

2011-02-07T22:24:00.002-07:00

With family and work time is short when it comes to training. The TRX is the perfect tool for the time conscious.

24 hour solo races are demanding, the TRX helps condition the complete body to prepare for this.

A new season with 2NINER power

2011-01-08T00:18:00.022-07:00

2010 has gone, tings happened, some tings didn't.

Long outside rides in the middle of winter are gold, refreshing for the mind, body and motivation.

This off season has been about making a consistent routine stick, so by season start, life will be organized. Keeping racing part of a lifestyle with supportive wife, kids, work is a challenge in time use and planning. Its made us simpler.

This winter I have found the combination of @trx_fitness and snow shoe running pow a very good cross train in cardio, in motion and feel smoother on the Cycleops. I'm excited for the season.

Race night, this photo excites me and makes me nervous at the same time, harmless looking event down there, but really a collection of gong shows happening.

There's a luring something about 24 hour races, something that gets certain people returning for more. It can't be the lemans start.

Its more than just riding in circles, they're constructive emotional journey's. Next up is May 28th Round and Round.

Race schedule

Adding this tool to my shed, don't know how its going to be paid for, but it will be in there shortly. Got this beautiful machine to try and bomb the TR3, TR4 roads quicker. #2NINER @Vote for me

Top 10 Christmas gifts for cycling freaks

2010-12-01T10:08:00.023-07:00

If your married to, boyfriend / girlfriend to or are a fanatical human addicted to cycling and heading into off season, check these top 10 gifts to get your freak on.

1. Build over the offseason with

2. Dont let boredom kill aspiration, get a TRX

3. Your socks for all sorts ...

4. Get what you need and be energized

5. Say no to mold

6. See what you need to see

7. Motivation in your ears

8. Maintain Race power, get a trainright video

9. Want to make your mark in 2011, get a coach

10. Cross train it with balance

2010 season closed due to snow

2010-11-15T23:50:00.025-07:00

Another day, another dollar we say at work - another season, at another level we strive as cyclists.

Pretty sure I got there this year, up a level that is. If anything another layer of experience, racing wisdom and insight to dealing with the self when fatigued, empty and retarded.

2010 was successful in that it confirmed the solution for the fueling issues I was having. Since consuming Hammer Nutrition, staying away from simple sugars the bonks and distress of twofour solos are gone. Now its possible to complete a race plan without having some gaping timehole between 1am and 4am.

Thanks to CTS Coach Lawrence Mize I achieved what we set out to this season and after a rest transition in November, its preseason cycleops trainer and powertap time.

This year the business was at the front with 2 x twofour's, the latter being 24hr solo nationals, then a mashup of 6hr, 8hr, marathon and 3 day stage.

Thoroughly enjoyed the shorter course races but, for some reasons still have the 24hr format as a favorite at the moment.

This year I found some order to the madness of a 24hr, and discovered it thru self supporting a couple twofour's, including nationals.
I also discovered there are some races you just don't do self support, including nationals. The order to the madness came in the form of simplicity, there was nobody around, nobody to answer, quietness, you do everything - simple - fuel, keep moving, concentrate, gitter done.

This season I had a taste of UCI, a taste of podium and looking for more of that in 2011. Next season is shaping already for exciting times, with a number of new events on the circuit and possible new venture on a Fernie based team.

There's one person that makes my season happen and that is my Wife - thanks Wife.
And thanks Nick Nault photography for the pics.

Kootenay Krusher 50km

2010-09-12T23:48:00.009-06:00

13th - 3hrs 38min 50km singletrack loop.

Camped out in Nipika grounds Saturday, race start was a friendly Sunday 10am.

At the race briefing prior to start, announcer expresses extreme caution riding the rim trail of the canyon for falling is certain death.

Comfortable temperature for a mass start of 110 riders, got hung up on a riders handlebar at the gun almost went down, loop around the grounds, then a fast pace into 2 lanes of traffic, then into singletrack - bunch was thinned quite well.

The 50km loop is continuous climbing and descending between 3300ft to 4100ft and takes you around a rim trail of the Kootenay river canyon - exhilarating views.

Weaving thru some early traffic to get to my team up the trail I finally got on and settled into tempo. Around 25-30km on a brief road section a roadie passed me leading into singletrack then slowed down to descend, again I was behind the eight ball as I see my guys ahead pull away.

The second half of the figure eight loop had more rough technical track, constant in and out of the saddle to keep the bike rolling over the irregular terrain. At this stage there's no bridging to my team, I am feeling the effects of not eating, not drinking enough, then get smacked with quad cramps in both legs, tried pedaling thru it but just got worse - well that made me stop and eat.

Gassing out and cramping up put me back 18minutes, I was frantically chasing all race I neglected fueling right. Well, still getting used to the intensity and fueling logistics of short course racing I'll have another crack at it in a couple weeks at the Highroller.

Swiftwick Socks are in the mail

2010-09-06T13:06:00.007-06:00

Hi Riders from this years 24Hr Spokane, 24Hr Canmore & 8Hrs of Labor your @SWIFTWICK goodies are here and I am getting them out to you.

I know most of you were stoked to sport the twelves, but stock was low, bare with me and I will talk to the generous reps at swiftwick. In meantime I am sending out a mix of zeros, ones, fours and sevens - they are all compression tech socks and guaranteed they will be the best socks you'll ever wear.

If your racing, a performance athlete or interested in the products follow @swiftwick or send me a note on twitter.

"Do what moves you"

8 Hours of Labor, Butte

2010-09-05T21:47:00.016-06:00

Triple Ring Productions
8 Hours of Labor, Homestake lodge Butte Montana.

77 miles 8hrs 11 laps - 2nd place

Cow patties and a rough type track through mountain drainages at 6000ft.

Above: Gave 1st place Bill Martin a set of @Swiftwick merino twelves

Below: Course profile for 11 laps
Fun crowd, challenging just like anything over a certain time, but did'NT have it to get closer to 100mile.

Drove down 7hrs with 2 Fernie team mates, we placed 2nd, 4th, 5th.

1st place Martin lapped us twice, I caught team mate Gilmard over a couple laps and caught team mate Cunnane around lap 8. Cat and mouse with Cunnane for a couple laps till I could make a gap stick equating to some 5-10minutes.

This course is good for racing, for its always changing, rough cut and meanders back on itself so you can see your rider ahead and get an idea of gap to bridge.

The day was hot to start with brief cooling afternoon shower with thunder to full on wind gusts at the end of the day. I like these outback races where you can park on the trail, we backed onto the track, dropped the tailgate, slapped a bucket of bottles on tailgate like a case of beers and set off riding.

Couple bites of a sandwhich, 1 hammer bar, bunch of hammer gels, couple bottles of heed, 1 coke, apart from that survived on endurolytes, perpetuem and water.

Pack up, post race lassagne, awards, down a 5 hour energy bottle and a drive home to Canada missing a turnoff and driving an extra 3hours arriving home Sunday 4am.

Thanks to Chris, Mandy and Triple Ring Prod.

UCI Results for TR3 - oldest guy in the group

2010-08-31T23:19:00.004-06:00

Trans rockies stage 3

2010-08-11T21:45:00.003-06:00

This last day was a mix of road, hike da bike, all terrain downhill and creek crossings, 65km, 5676ft vertical, 4hrs 25min, 21st on the day, 23rd on GC.

Better day again, avoided the 2 crashes at the back of start block 1. Kept with the main group for 15km, then when dropped twice there was no chance of bridging again.

Settled into a consistent tempo till checkpoint 2 around 40km and started seeing other main bunch dropees.

Caught a hard working train up the hike da bike that had short rideable sections, arrived at the top with good energy, legs were still firing good and timetrialed it home. Overall enjoyed this adventure like day the most out of the three.

Next year 40+ category.

Trans rockies stage 2

2010-08-09T21:01:00.006-06:00

More of a road day today, 5856ft vertical, 71km, 4hr trip time, GC doesnt change from 24th.

Overall a better day on faster ground, congestion on key downhill pitches meant tripoding to a stop, check the profile, the steep descent riders were walking this and made for tricky overtakes.

Had the pleasure riding with 759 warren ellis, overtook me on the downhill, caught his wheel at 30km and brought me in at 15km to go when I had no work left.

Last day tomorrow, 65km with estimates 1hr hike a bike.

Trans rockies stage 1 - timetrial

2010-08-08T20:31:00.009-06:00

The Fernie timetrial loop got 2 good days of rain and amongst the last to go, I had a hard time in my own backyard mud and roots. A bunch of bails, 1 good head ringer, was trying to force the downhills and was not getting any flow on. Not the time I expected, 02:34:00, 24th Open mens.

Long roadie section to start tomorrow for first 1hr and half, will see if the legs have recovered from canmore.

Fernie teammate is in 16th, I have 10 minutes to pick up, (results)

Trans Rockies Day 1 Route

2010-07-30T22:10:00.004-06:00

Fernie Trails Course setter: TR Day.1

24 solo nationals recap

2010-07-29T21:55:00.014-06:00

This recovery week has been a surprise for I was expecting to feel something from last weeks sickness leading to canmore. But all is good, feeling fresh on recovery rides and preparing for Trans rockies in 10 days.

The 24hr solo in canmore this past weekend was the Canadian nationals and was the hardest 24 I've done to date. Everything was a factor, the heat, the technical loop and I was doing a self support race.

The heat was throat scratchy dry, still felt its beat down at sundown and lost all appetite. I remember a couple spoons of pasta not sitting good in the stomach and all I could handle was dumplings and perpetuem.

If it wasn't for the the hourly @HammerNutrition endurolyte pills, I dont think I would have made it thru to the night.

At the start line they put solo category at the front and i found myself running for my life at the gun, I was literally getting run over by team riders and anybody over 5'6". They made us run a 1km rocky loop in bike shoes and I fought cramp twinges till both legs seized up a climb on lap3. Making it in from this lap I packed a musette bag with food, bottles and went str8 to team area to find Fernie Mountain Massage, 30minutes later I was back on track.

Recalling from race notes, 7.59pm onwards I had trouble eating solids, from this time till finish I ate about 10 dumplings, couple bananas, handful of jubes, 1 packet of oats, 2 hammer bars, couple hammer gels and kept sustained by perpetuem, endurance amino and kept awake with anti fatigue caps.

For the last half of the race @HammerNutrition was the main fuel providing calories and for the first time my legs were firing sharp and snappy all the way to the end, a testament to endurolytes.

Early morning 1.36am was a confusing time, in a daze it was hard to figure battery swap time, couldn't find things that were right in front of me in the pit and felt the need to talk to a human.

4.31am came around and this was the crux time, I was getting sloppy on the downhills, losing concentration and really needed a re-charge, had to take a nap. I set the bike, changed @Swiftwick twelves, had a nibble of food, put my down jacket on and lay on the floor - 20minutes later my alarm went off, hopped on the bike and went to work on another lap.

At 6am I started seeing who fared overnight, and started trying to figure how many laps I could fit within 1pm, these were very difficult thoughts and had to play it lap by lap. With hours to go I was pretty empty, couldn't eat solids and was living on perpetuem, endurolytes, water and kept rolling thru the pit stopping to just swap bottles - just wanted to gitta done.

Coming in at 12.01 I realistically needed 25minutes in order to safely complete another lap, the 4am cat nap cost me a lap and about 5 places - thats 24hr racing.

All in all this was a gr8 race to complete, looking at my race log below I am recalling more and more moments, I came out the other side of this one a better person. Sometimes its not about the placing but the quality of the 24hr journey - I had a good ride.

Trek EVO rocker

2010-07-21T14:26:00.003-06:00

Sometimes race preparation just doesn't go the way you want.

24Hr Solo Nationals

2010-07-19T14:40:00.002-06:00

With Nationals in 5 days I get a smackdown of fever, delirium and strep. First time this has happened at the end of a taper and find myself creating stress in the mind.

Pumping my body with meds and everything to help me recoup in time I need to be smart, check my pride at the door and potentially pull the plug on Canmore 24hr. For making the wrong decision here could mean effecting TR3 as well that is ten days after.

Reading @lancearmstrong last post I have to remember how lucky we are to be alive and well and remember who I am riding for - My Mum that passed to cancer and all those out there struggling with life.

#TDF chalk bot - In Memory of Purita Mong

2010-07-18T23:36:00.006-06:00

Congratulations, your message was printed on the roads of France.

Thank you for sharing your inspiration. Now it is visible to everyone.

Trans Rockies Stage2

2010-07-18T22:27:00.004-06:00

Shout out to Trans Rockies riders, you will ride this at some stage during day 2.

This 4000ft descent will approx take fast riders 20-25minutes, the ridgeline you see in backgrounds of some frames is where you descend from.

Thanks to Fernie Trails & Ski Touring club for building such an epic trail.

Trans Rockies Stage2 from jesse mong on Vimeo.

Calling 2010 Trans Rockies Riders

2010-07-18T08:45:00.002-06:00

Calling all Trans Rockies riders, heres a short video showing trail included in Stage1 Fernie BC timetrial.

2010 TR3 TT Teaser from jesse mong on Vimeo.

Reference video for CTS Coach Lawrence Mize

2010-07-17T00:21:00.008-06:00

TR3 Stage1 Extended Video
This is reference video 2 for CTS Coach Lawrence Mize.
Singletrack climbing and descending.

@transrockies riders can get an idea of the trail riding for Stage1 timetrial,
this video contains snippets of gravel road, single and double track.

If your not racing TR, come visit Fernie and ride our world class trails, you will not be disappointed.

2010 Trans Rockies Stage1 trails from jesse mong on Vimeo.

24 Hour Nationals / TR3

2010-07-12T22:46:00.012-06:00

Nationals
Time is flying by, Spokane 24hr in May seems like weeks ago, but since we had a beautiful baby girl, construction season jumped into full swing, tour divide is finito, le tour de france is into its first rest day, 24hr nationals are in 2 weeks and I don't know what I am doing for support or transport - however I do know that I cant wait till @heathermong all in 1 support crew is available again.

A busy life practices the focus you need for 24hr solo racing, 24hr solo racing practices the sustaining mind for a busy life.

TR3 Stage2
This is a reference video for CTS Coach Lawrence Mize.
This climb is the approach of the 4000ft climb to Porky Blu trailhead Fernie, this is Trans Rockies Stage2.

This stage starts with a 15km logging road climb to a double track around 5000ft, 5km of doubletrack to 7km of singletrack to a peak of 7000ft and ends in a 25minute downhill of epic scenery.

Next post will have video snippets of doubletrack/singletrack climb and descent.

Double header: 24hr Nationals & TR3

2010-06-17T01:01:00.009-06:00

"Hmm, I've done this twice before but I'm abit fried I cut between the clamps right".

A scheduled ultrasound and midwife appointment turned into an overnight deal with a beautiful 5lbs 6oz baby girl at the other end.

With a growing tribe at home, work getting busy and irregular weather, wise use of planned time will be the key to getting training rides in.

We are 4 weeks out of the double header: 24hr solo nationals then TR3. Of which I realistically have one more training build, a taper till 24hr, then a tight 10day active recovery before trans rockies.

With a newborn this year I am lucky to be at races, let alone having my Wife there supporting. So 2010 is about self support and at this point I am figuring what to do for Canmore. As for TR3, I will do the same as last year, hitch my bags between stages with someone, do own camp setup and food out of a cooler.

Round & Round - Team TRP / Hammer

2010-05-31T22:12:00.023-06:00

29th May Spokane WA -
Round and Round 24Hr: 15 laps - 4th

the 24hr solo self support experiment went pretty good last weekend and was able to follow a plan and complete a race time of 24:01:04.08

course was a fast and flowy 25km loop with great riverside scenic, event hosts are very accommodating with pit setups, organization, facility and vibe was great

the highlight of the race was a photographer with a gorilla suite running across the track freaking riders out in the early hours of the morning, all in the name of action shots - i thought it was a bear at first

sitting in my tarped off 10x10 tent i had everything surrounding me on the floor, cooler with premade food, premade bottles of Hammer HEED, perpetuem, water, FRS, bag of clothes, light & battery all setup, premade coffee in a flask, lap record sheet and cellphone.

by 2am it was kaos, with rubbish, empty bottles, wet gear, dry gear everywhere and comical in the dark for I just had a small petzl for extra light - maybe went too minimal this race

the backup wheel set came in handy, needing to change out an untrue front wheel and slow leak rear tire, apart from that the Trek Top Fuel had one drive train clean and that was it for 24hrs

watching time in the pit was challenging on top of feeding, finding stuff, checking bike, changing clothes, warming up, and texting Wife so she can tweet updates - although challenging I think self supporting helped keep me engaged and focused on what I needed to do to keep moving

another thing with self support is your pit is peaceful and at 3am your thoughts are loud

my thoughts were loud around this time for I was cursing and swearing for some idiot rode a big pool beside me and kicked up a wave of mud water soaking me, this was my last change of gear and took awhile to warmup after this - no happy

the @swiftwick merino wool saved me during the early morning when I was freezing, I wore a FOUR and TWELVE and life was great. wearing TWELVES all race I felt a more consistent leg temperature, even after sitting and muscles fired at good tempo all throughout

props to @hammernutrition, solved my stomach distress and bonk by cutting the simple sugars out

Thanks to my sponsors, its a good start to the season.
NEXT target is 24 Hour Solo Nationals, Canmore AB - July

Round and Round 2010

2010-05-27T23:27:00.001-06:00

Its the week of Spokane 24hr, last rides for this taper and last ride till course inspection on Friday and race start 12 noon Saturday 29th May.

With my wife unavailable for this race due to - pregnant, I figure to try a self support this time round, I guess like Ed Hunt back in the day. Putting this race plan together my mind is refreshed on just how much the Mrs does for these races.

Well everything is packed, food is pre-made, its pouring rain at the event site already, I got all the gear I need, off to work.

concentrating on bit by bit successes - kaizen

2010-04-08T22:10:00.001-06:00

Recovering from a 3 week sickness bout and 8 or so weeks out from 24hr spokane, its demoralizing watching my meager wattage on the bike - wheres the fitness gone, how long till I get it back, do I have enough time. Its a fluster much like the 24hr solo thing, if thinking about the 20 or so hours left to ride I can get flustered, when really I should be concentrating on small bit by bit successes - kaizen.

Kaizen is a Japanese word which, in English, closely translates to "continuous small improvements". This concept of continuous improvement has been around for thousands of years in the Japanese culture.

Early season training loop around broadwood beautiful scenery

Cabin fever is over

2010-03-19T21:46:00.002-06:00

was dormant for days last week, didn't run dogs they're all stir crazy
will miss a good 2 weeks of training and trying to mentally let go of this happening and move on

haven't been this sick in a long time, reverse flu, straight to the chest then up to the head, fevers, cough headaches, abs of steel after non stop coughing

if it wasn't for the sickness, hanging out at home with the family has been great and gr8 rediscovering what chill out means, went crazy shopping online though, think I have all racing stuff ordered up, cant wait to consume FRS

sleep, the best state for recovery, I think I overlook this, or maybe the day job overlooks this

we've gone from -20cel hard pack snow biking to spring melt to mud in a matter of weeks this march, the town level is bare but the ski hill and elevation is getting bits of snow and the weather is into its very variable every 30 minutes crapola phase

looking out the window yesterday I saw rain, snow, grouple, rain then sun in a space of 20 minutes, was visualizing what I should have on me to keep rides friendly

my early season training loop * is open * and i am busting to get back to business, just need to kick this other crapola in my chest

cabin fever is over

next stop: 24th May, Round and Round Spokane WA - 24 Hr solo

No snow - bring on spring

2010-03-08T14:12:00.003-07:00

Barest march we have had in awhile, with no snow bring on the spring.

Riding past local history

2010-02-28T12:02:00.006-07:00

Its winter but its spring like, drove to check where snow lines are to see where to ride today.

Will ride past 2 historical sites:

400 year old Cottonwoods

and Coal coke ovens, dating back to 1903.

Snow pack loop - bonus winter riding

2010-02-11T17:48:00.007-07:00

Trail riding always a bonus during winter, a great change up to indoor trainer work.

Thanks to sled grooming (cathy korn) and fernie snowshoers trails have been buff and there is a snow pack loop of 1200ft vertical available for riding or running.

This hour loop is around 6mile:

Scary trail to Cemetary by pass extension to Eco terrorist,
up Ridgemont rd to Kids stuff to Erics connector to Erics and down
up Ridgemont rd to Broken hip down to Scary trail, Loop back up to Eco terrorist up Ridgemont rd to Eco terrorist proper entrance to Sidewinder down and take branch to Brads gay trail, to Whats up doc down to Cemetary bypass down scary trail to Coal creek.

With temps at plus 5cel, its spring outside and frozen trail is shrinking, its pedal circles or walk.

24 Hour Solo Mtb Warning

2010-02-07T22:40:00.001-07:00

- Swiftwick socks - by Cyclists for Cyclists

2010-02-03T01:02:00.007-07:00

Not only the best athletic socks, but also the warmest and most comfortable cold temp arm warmers.

Training routes for spring - flathead

2010-01-28T22:26:00.000-07:00

Its the middle of winter and plotting training rides for the spring.

As training rides have got longer over time I am now riding into some of the most beautiful areas of BC, the Flathead and upper reaches of Waterton Park. Beautiful but under threat of mining.

Directions in google earth "Flathead River BC" lat=49.3528647923, lon=-114.612799819

There are positive movements in the news, but in any case check out the Flathead and act now.

A UNESCO World Heritage report is recommending a permanent prohibition on mining in the Flathead River Valley.

And that a single conservation and wildlife management plan be developed for the entire trans-boundary Flathead region.

Flathead news

The season gone

2009-12-26T21:48:00.006-07:00

Thats a wrap...

Cash determined the end of the 2009 season, a reminder of the bi-product of following a cyclists path; perpetual poverty.

Not making 24Hr Moab or any cyclo-cross it was fall riding of larch needle trails, snow, freezing rain, mud, and some cold wind chill temps - some of the best adventure riding this year.

Worlds this year was not the smoothest and finished outside top 10 in 11th, a few things to work on. Thanks to my Wife, Support crew and Sponsors for helping me complete this years journey. Heres a pit #27 recap, thanks Dave Paetzold for the video.

World Solo 24hr 09 from jesse mong on Vimeo.

2009 was a busy year, maintaining focus between events, throughout the year and not just during each race was key. Balance between family, training, rest, racing and work is a fine line battle - I believe I can neutralize this battle.

Trail builders in Fernie are something else, I put in quality miles on trail this year and my improvements are because of these trails, shout out to y'all, thanks for the real singletrack.

The Trek Top Fuel is an endurance climbing and descending machine, low 20's lbs in weight, stiff when railing corners and an integrated unit when under suspension, consistent performance at +30cel, -30cel or caked in mud, an efficient all terrain and hike-a-bike friendly machine - nothing else can be said but - I want another one.

Well, with 2009 shortly coming to pass, off season training in swing, I am preparing to see what I can accomplish in 2010. Check you on the flipside.

Race vault:; select your pain

2009-12-26T11:32:00.004-07:00

If your looking to fill your race calendar, here is a growing selection of events listed by month.

12 Hours of Temecula (12 Hour MTB)
Jan, California USA

24 Hours of Sunlight (24 Hour Ski)
Feb, Colorado USA

24 hours of Old Pueblo (24 Hour MTB, fund raiser)
Feb, Arizona USA

Bike Asia (MTB marathon)
April, Singapore

Dirt Sweat and Gears (12 Hour MTB)
May, Tennessee USA

18 Hrs of Fruita (18 Hour MTB)
May, CO USA

Round and Round (24 Hour MTB)
May, WA USA

Salty Dog Enduro (6 Hour MTB)
May, BC Canada

Coolest 24 Hour Race (24 Hour MTB, fund raiser)
May, California USA

9 to 5 (MTB Ultra endurance)
June, Idaho USA

Tour Divide (MTB Ultra endurance)
June, Canada-USA

RAAM (Road Ultra endurance)
June, USA

24 Hours of Rapelje (24 Hour MTB)
June, Montana USA

BC Bike Race (MTB Stage)
June, BC Canada

Coolest 24 Boggs Mtn (8 & 24 Hour MTB, fund raiser)
June, California USA

Castelli 24 Hour (Road 24 Hour Criterium)
June, Feltre Italy

12 Hours of Rim Nordic (MTB 12 Hour)
June, California USA

Brek Epic (MTB Stage)
July, Colorado USA

Race Across Oregon (Ultra endurance)
July, Oregon USA

24 Hours of Adrenalin (24 Hour MTB)
July, Alberta Canada

Intermontane Challenge (MTB Stage)
July, BC Canada

Laramie Enduro (MTB 70 mile)
July, WY USA

Butte 100 (MTB marathon)
August, Montana USA

Leadville 100 (MTB marathon)
August, Colorado USA

Trans Rockies Challenge - TR3 / TR4 / TR7 (MTB Stage)
August, BC Canada

Bow 80 (MTB marathon)
September, Alberta Canada

8 Hours of Labor (8 Hour MTB)
September, Montana USA

12 Hours of Snowmass (12 Hour MTB)
September, CO USA

24 Hours of Leadville (24 Hour MTB)
September, Colorado USA

Cheakamus Challenge (MTB Stage)
September, Whistler Canada

Stone Temple 8 (8Hour MTB)
September, WY USA

24 Hours of Moab (24 Hour MTB)
October, Moab USA

25 Hours of Frog Hollow (24 Hour MTB)
October, UT USA

Dark Knight Cross (Cyclo-Cross)
October 3rd, Calgary AB Canada

Oval Cross (Cyclo-Cross)
October 4th, Calgary AB Canada

Cyclo Cross Nationals (Cyclo-Cross)
October 10th, Edmonton AB Canada

GP Horner CX (Cyclo-Cross)
October 11th, Edmonton AB Canada

Blow St Super Cross (Cyclo-Cross)
October 17th, Calgary AB Canada

Speed Theory Cx (Cyclo-Cross)
October 18th, Calgary AB Canada

United Cross (Cyclo-Cross)
October 24th, Edmonton AB Canada

Pedalhead Cx (Cyclo-Cross)
October 25th, Edmonton AB Canada

Halloween Cross (Cyclo-Cross)
October 31st, Calgary AB Canada

Terrascape CX (Cyclo-Cross)
November 1st, Calgary AB Canada

Sea to Summit Challenge (Road endurance, fund raiser)
November, NSW Australia

La Ruta (MTB Stage)
November, Costa Rica

Got trainer video

2009-12-21T22:19:00.004-07:00

Sometimes I just gotta watch a movie while on the trainer:

Although I have workout targets set by my coach I sometimes watch CTS training DVD's (see @ www.trainright.com) to name a few; MTB, Time Trial, Climbing

On any other day I get inspired watching:

Bicycle Dreams
Distance of Truth
24 Solo
Race Day
Tour de France 03, 05, 08
The Hard Road
World Solo 24Hr Championships 08, 09
Pro

I rarely watch movie - movies, if I do its sport related, like:

Roam
Seasons
Collective
Red Bull Rampage
ISDE enduro moto
Riding Giants
September Sessions
Strapped
Kranked Series
Earthed Series
Pumping Iron

And if I'm just pumped I'll put the iPod on, watch the blank wall and visualize trail and success.

What do you watch, send me a tweet -> http://www.twitter.com/jessemong

Indoor training motivation in a Cycleops

2009-12-20T16:49:00.007-07:00

09 world solo 24hr video is playing but I'm not watching, but gazing out the window watching it dump with snow, appreciating the smooth feel of the Cycleops Jet Fluid Pro trainer.

Its what they say, real road like feel, quiet and the unit does not vibrate.
The flywheel allows for momentum to carry when you back off pedaling, allowing the rear wheel to spin, giving a smooth gear change. You can really appreciate its smoothness when doing tempo's and you can see it reflected in a consistent HR graph.

If your burnt out on the trainer get a Cycleops Pro series, the performance of these machines will help you get on it day after day in the OFF season - not to mention the results it will give you in the ON season.

Solo racing - Trans Rockies

2009-12-20T01:23:00.006-07:00

When most were in their RV's I was in tent city rooming with my stinky gear at this years TR3.

2010 TR3 will start in my home town of Fernie with a 20 mile TT of mostly singletrack. Finally our town gets to showcase world class trail.

Check it out, great way to see the rockies Trans Rockies Challenge.

If possible - dont camp, if not - bring someone to tear down, setup camp each day and prep meals.

Fluid rider

2009-11-27T01:16:00.008-07:00

Call up to line at 09 World Championships by rank.

Fluid rider on left, 3rd row back, getting closer to the front.

Comfort and warmth - Swiftwick

2009-10-10T21:38:00.009-06:00

-10 celsius out and wind chill on top - my swiftwick sock combo: 4 merino and 12 compression worked better than tights, more comfortable, no movement restriction, nice and tight - the 12 merino would be even warmer.

now just need to find a good glove that gives warmth and finger dexterity for technical downhill trail braking

Hi Rachel, could I try some 12 merino's, might need some extra warmth for the Arizona desert in February 2010.

Best Performance Socks

2010 Race Radar

2009-09-30T23:02:00.018-06:00

Rough race schedule for 2010, dont think I am allowed to do 4 x 24's might have to team up in a duo somewhere.

24 hours of Old Pueblo (MTB 24 hour solo)
Feb 13, Arizona USA (Solo is full, Duo is open)

Sea to Summit Challenge (ROAD 2 day stage)
March 10, NSW Australia

Round and Round (MTB 24 hour solo)
May 23, WA USA

BC Bike Race (MTB 7 day stage)
June 27, BC Canada

24 Hour Canadian Nationals (MTB 24 hour solo)
July 26, Alberta Canada

24 Hours of Leadville (MTB 24 hour solo)
July 31, Colorado USA

Butte 100 (MTB marathon)
August 1, Montana USA

Trans Rockies Challenge (MTB 3 day stage)
August 8,9,10, BC Canada

8 Hours of Labor (MTB 8 hour solo)
September 5, Montana USA

24 Hours of Moab (MTB 24 hour solo)
October 10, Moab USA

Halloween Cross (Cyclo-Cross)
October 31st, Calgary AB Canada

Terrascape CX (Cyclo-Cross)
November 1st, Calgary AB Canada

Going to the desert

2009-09-28T23:23:00.003-06:00

24hrs of Moab was on the radar but looking un-doable at this time.
But theres a freak show happening October 31 Southwest Utah - 25hrs in Frog Hollow.

Seeing if I can make this happen.

Fernie Highroller - funnest ride of the year

2009-09-27T01:56:00.036-06:00

Funnest ride of the year, annual Fernie Highroller poker ride. Huge turnout doubling last year, perfect weather to ride all day and tasty BBQ at the finish.

Day started at 7.30am with registration, lining up, mingling with 130 or so riders - join the FMBC & preregister online folks this ride is growing.

The Highroller is about trail appreciation, challenging yourself and riding all day - so some buddies and I figured to ride as much single track on route to checkpoints and avoid roads. Nothing like starting a ride with beautiful morning light and a flat.

The regular Highroller route is 4 sections:
HyperVentilation/HyperExtension, Moccasin/S-bomb/Brokeback, Project9, Gorby/Verbotten.

The Singletrack Tour had some extras:
+ Start dirt jump park, Roots via barn & castle mountain Powerline
+ Roots, HyperVentilation, HyperExtension

+ Ridgemont road, Eco Terrorist, Sidewinder 2 Fas Gas

+ Cross town to Rips, Burma rd, Moccasin base for poker card and frolf challenge
+ Phat Bastard, Mushroom Head, Lactic Ridge
+ Moccasin backwards to lookout for poker card and golf challenge
+ Moccasin, Slunt, Brokeback Ridge, Island Lake

+ Project 9
+ Gorby, Sherwoody Forest, Happy Gilmar
+ Old Goat, Mega Hurtz, Black Forest

+ Cedar trail into ski hill, Far Out loop up Boomerang road
+ Eville to ski hill base loop
+ Ski boundry cat track via Boomerang chair to Playground
+ Black Forest, Mega Hurtz, Old Goat, Gorby
+ Snake Bite, Verbotten, Sherwoody Forest, Park connector

+ Finish BBQ, down a couple beers, home via Dem bones, Mushroom Head, Red Sonya

Last to finish 68km, 8445ft climbing.

I continued Sunday - Highroller II and rode trail to make the total closer to 100:
+ Mad Cow, SwineFlu, Sidewinder, EcoTerrorist, Kids Stuff, Erics Connector, Erics, Split Connector, SplitBear, Eco, Kids Stuff, R-Trail, Oh Dear, Stumpy.

Highroller total 98km, 11,200ft vertical.
Highroller100

Heres some video from the day, come to Fernie next year and ride our trail.

Next big group ride - Highroller 2009

2009-09-17T21:59:00.008-06:00

The next big ride says its not a race but in Fernie it always seems to be one.

Fernie Highroller Poker Ride - September 26th

Fun local event that is attracting more and more out of town participants, challenging riding, great single track, good tour of town, challenging pace can be found.

THIS YEARS ROUTE:
1. Hyper Ventilation>Hyper Extension
2. Moccasin > S-Bomb > Brokeback
3. Project 9
4. Gorby>Verboten>Sherwoody>Bridgeview Connector to Provincial Park

After this its 24hr moab, October, 10th, to be confirmed.

#8hrsoflabor Homestake Lodge Butte MT

2009-09-06T11:27:00.022-06:00

Another day, another race, labor day weekend at Homestake Lodge, 585km drive to Butte from BC Canada on Friday, camp in parking lot to a fullmoon with Boneshaker, Muleterro Sten, Missoula Sheaphead GMan, Famous Ross Brown, owl and coyote, race Saturday, drive home 6hrs, back by midnight, successful mtb mission.

The Event: 8 hour race, 7 mile loop out & back to main lodge, approx 800' vertical of up and down, mixture of xc ski trail, single track, double track, hoofed trail, fun fast descents, tricky bark sections, and the best thing NO LEMANS RUN at the start.

Montonians are masheens, I went down there to get a challenge and got just that on a hot day and a deceptive course. I started off fast but the legs just werent there this weekend, I did 9 laps and wasnt feeling to good, the hoofed trails was killing my knee & couldnt pedal without pain in the foot, after seeing Sten & Bob drinking beer already I decided to call it a day after 6 & half hours, hang out tell stories, and rest before the drive home.

Friday night was awesome, 5 of us huddled infront of a 15" screen laptop on a truck tailgate, exchanging racing stories, GMans 09 leadville 100 (& how Butte100 is harder/realer), fishing, skiing and watching Bills 24hr world solo 09 tale - dudes can we stay in the lodge next year, we may have a better chance of seeing the wolves stroll onto the deck, I will get a better sleep and its only $20/nite for a bed.

Meeting new friends at races is great & re-seeing friends at races is so much fun, to think I met Bill, Bob, Rich on twitter is hilarious but meeting Mr Ross Brown of tender age 51, watching him give it all on course and listening to him speak of how biking has redefined his life and spirit is priceless. Affirms that my passion for 2 wheel transport is common - thats just how I roll.

Shout out to Alex and supportive mother Martha, another inspirational young athlete story in the making, check him out, MTB isnt even his primary sport, wish I started my athletic dreams at seventeen.

Nothing exciting but heres my drive to Butte, dont worry I was watching the road when filming.

Next race, 8 hours of Labor - Butte Montana

2009-08-22T21:21:00.012-06:00

8 Hours of Labor, Butte Montana - September 5th 2009
Beneath the Continental Divide, should be fun.

Said I would never do self support and camp after trans rockies. Well I'm wrong, using this ghetto setup for next race in Montana, 8 hours of Labor @ Homestake Lodge. Another drive, camp, eat out of cooler race deal. I'm coming to get you @boneshakerbike.

Look forward to #actionwipes shower.

Wish I had Skins during Trans Rockies and Worlds

2009-08-17T10:54:00.006-06:00

Freezing during TR stages and needing every recovery edge between stages seeing majority of riders with skins I felt left out. Hoping I can get in on this product before cyclo-cross season in a couple months.

Next race in 9 days, Fernie Full Throttle Dirt Crit

2009-08-13T16:00:00.002-06:00

Next race is short course crit at the ski hill, yet to confirm details usually 3 loops of xc course 7km or so, something like that.

Fernie Full Throttle Festival Dirt Crit
More info soon.

Sign of good drivetrain

2009-08-12T18:58:00.006-06:00

Underneath this muck is a Trek Top Fuel, this is Nipika mud collected during last stage TT in the TR3.

Although sporadically losing gears, a drivetrain that can work with this amount of muck is a good drivetrain.

There is actually a stick wrapping the derailleur cog, I pulled the main branch out at about 10km and rode the remaining 34km with it in there, didnt want to stop and lose time.

Trans Rockies Solo 2009 - 7th in GC

2009-08-12T13:38:00.005-06:00

Stage.1 Panorama to K2 Ranch, 45km, 6800ft climbing

Out the start gates it was straight up Panorama resort mountain on steep cat road to variable terrain ridgeline riding with awesome Interior BC views. Dropped by the main group up the climb rode through CP.1 without stopping hoping to gather time, worked thru cramping in legs on hike-a-bike section, topped up fuel at CP.2 and TT'ed to K2 ranch eventually sitting in behind strong dead goat racing mixed team (Pat&Trisch).

Nutrition not the best this day, placing 7th on GC in 3:31:09 hours.

Stage.2 K2 Ranch to Nipika Resort, 72km, 8505ft climbing

Started in seeded block 1, a fast start on road to Fairmont resort, made jump with GC riders I was watching, bridged to lead group and cruised in pack for 10km chatting and mingling. As soon as the climb started the leaders attacked and disappeared up the trail and fractured the group big time, put the hurt on early that lasted all day. Today in my mind the race was Trans Hike-a-bike, the views were epic, cant even remember how long we all hiked it was really tough but we were rewarded with some sick descending single track.

Nutrition was better today, no cramping, kept 7th on GC in 6:07::53 hours.

Stage.3 Nipika to Nipika Time Trial, 44km, 3387ft climbing

Start block 1 went out at 1pm at minute intervals, I was soaked before I checked in at timing tent, our group got the worst of the rain and sticky clayey mud. From CP.1 the mud was in control of drivetrain and could only shift between small and middle ring, for the last 25km or so I had sporadic use of cassette gears, as usual there were hike-a-bike sections and the slippery mud made things tough. Very technical day in the rain, 2 wheel drifting in mud, slick roots, alot of rider traffic on course to negotiate (slower start blocks started first), was riding strong but fell off the pace in last quarter.

Nutrition was good today, fun day with epic canyon views.
TR made timing mistake should be 7th in GC, TR used wrong TT result actual time is 3:21:00 hours.

All in all a tough 3 days, very strong competition, very challenging terrain, great event vibe and organisation. Pics and video soon.

TR3 - Trans Rockies Solo

2009-08-04T20:03:00.007-06:00

Recovering from worlds and working outdoors has been tricky, but we'll see how things fair at TR3 this weekend.

The Trans Rockies race ends in my home town but TR3 only rides the first 3 stages, hope to hook up with some local friends racing duo, ship my bags between stages in their RV, setup tent by night and eat out of a cooler for 3 days.

Dont think my entry includes showers, but got Action Wipes.

The first day has 1 major climb early then coasting, second day is longer 72km day with 2 major bumps in the profile and last day is a 45km TT loop, all with some real scenic views. Weather is unsettled with moving showers, its prime time for random rockies weather, could be a mud bog in tent city.

Will try sending tweets from camp, hopefully get cellphone service.

Next race in 10 days, Trans Rockies Solo

2009-07-30T22:29:00.007-06:00

I have 10 days to recover before the premiere Trans Rockies 3 day solo stage race. On the road again. Thanks to sponsor Fernie Central Reservations for making this happen.

Stage	Start	Finish	Distance	Elevation
1	Panorama	K2 Ranch	45.3 km	2267 m
2	K2 Ranch	NipikaResort	72.2 km	2835 m
3	NipikaResort	NipikaResort	44.1 km	1129 m

2009 24 Hr Solo World Championships

2009-07-27T21:35:00.029-06:00

Special thanks to my Wife, my support crew and sponsors for making this event possible for me, to date this was the most brutal race I have ever done and am pleased that I went the 23hour:42minute distance. These races really cannot be done successfully without support - thankyou, thankyou, thankyou ...

24 hr races are hard enough as it is, add a 500m sprint at the start in biking shoes, rough technical single track, 1800ft of climbing per lap and high temps - you dont have a race, but a brutal monster that beats you down in the first quarter and puts finishing in doubt.

I put in a good effort in the run, spent the first couple laps pedaling watchfully around leg cramps, lap 3, 4 my pit was massaging biofreeze into legs.

Lap 5, 6 cramps were gone but then was feeling the effects of the heat, this is around 7.30pm and reading the wifes notes I was getting moody, lap 7, 8 moody, bringing time to 11pm and lap times were suffering.

Lap 10, 11 shite hits the fan and I go into the hole from 2 to 6am, timings all out, dosing on course, fuzzy vision, puke in the pit, bodily shutdown, lights on course seem like I was doing a time lapse photo or an acid trip, morale was at an all time low.

If there's one person that can get me out of the hole, its the calming Wife, warmed me up in the lodge, put a fueling plan together, dress me, motivate, put me on the bike, run between pit and feedzone - finish the race.

The last 4 hours is exciting stuff, this is when we realize the cost of time lost, in the end I was shy minutes from committing to a 15th lap that would put me in 8th position. Risky for if i didnt make it in by cutoff all the effort would result in a DQ and that doesnt mean a dairy queen - well better luck next time.

Well thats that, back to the drawing board to work on mistakes and improve the fueling strategy.

Shout out to @thequeenofpain on the 3peat, Leighton on 4th, @boneshakerbike on 6th and Cary on 2nd and for dragging me along those last laps.

Results on Cycling News

Jesse Mong #27
Placing 11th, 25,200ft climbing, 140 miles

24 Hr Solo World Championships live feed

2009-07-23T10:38:00.003-06:00

Everything set, everythings fine, just gotta stand inline.

Check the race live feed here #WSC24

2 days till Worlds

2009-07-16T18:45:00.032-06:00

2 days till race, getting excited but trying not to think too too much of what is ahead. All the work is done, all rested, its just waiting out time till the gun goes off.

The last coupla days out from races are the hardest for me, one minute I'm all normal the next I'm some fruit cake all pumped up, HR racing, someones trying to talk to me but I'm out there with the fairies visualizing riding.

Packing, checking lights, fidgeting getting anxious, organizing equipment & meet times for crew, going over food with wife, carb loading, motel booked, got transport, pit passes bought for crew, resting, clearing my head and a few other things to do.

Weather forecast says scattered showers, well I'm going prepared for all sorts rain, mud, wind, heat. Leaving early Friday morning for Canmore, arrive around midday, register, setup pit, pre-ride course, rider meeting at 3pm, mingle, retire to the motel.

Well like buddy says in bicycle dreams - I may fair better, I may fair worse, but one things for sure I wont be the same. After 24hour races, if you get to set new limits and get to leave it all out on the course I dont think your ever the same as when you started.

Looking forward to sharing an experience with a whole bunch of fruit cakes I dont know, that want to find out just how much suffering they can muster.

Will have twitter updates during race ... see you on the flipside

Main race of the year WSC24

2009-07-09T23:29:00.010-06:00

2 weeks to go till world championships in Canmore, all the intense work is done and all thats left is a taper of easier riding.

When immersing in endurance events theres alot to immerse in at the halfway point of the season. The Tour de France is in full exciting swing, Tour Divide finished recently, My buddy just raced across the Gobi, RAAM just went by, Race across oregon just started, Badwater ultra is about to start, BC Bike race just finished and Intermontane is coming up. No shortage of inspiration, numerous people striving to see what they are capable of, and I hope to be one of those fruit cakes to try and answer this question in a couple weeks.

What ultra endurance athletes go thru and why is something that differs on an individual level, however these three movies really encapsulate the philosophical overtones of why: "Distance of Truth", "Bicycle Dreams", "24 Solo" - check em out.

To my Wife, Support crew and Sponsors, thanks for everything so far, its going to get emotional.

< 1 month till worlds

2009-06-26T20:07:00.026-06:00

Warm weather for todays ride a great change and way to end last full build before worlds. The World championships is the main event this year and is just under a month away, from here on in the focus is arriving 100% ready for July 25th.

The body is feeling the work from build just gone, the mind and legs are solid, been sleeping well, eating well, no injuries, following the plan. Looking forward to rest week coming up, then a half build, a 2 week taper, then we will be at race day.

I just watched bicycle dreams and the journalist described RAAM as "controlled breaking down" of the riders. Hmmm sounds very familiar, but in 24solo MTB I dont think its controlled, its an out of control smack down.

Heres a view of home from top of a climb today,
the bench was chopper lifted in.

What tire for mud, wet roots and good roll ?

2009-06-23T22:49:00.005-06:00

Conditions @ WC across the border in Canmore last year was epic, torrential rain, mud and rooty course made riding with speed a real commitment.

The weather is still all over the place and Canmore is in 4 weeks, I figure to expect bad conditions again. Trying to decide what tire to test out for mud and wet roots, have narrowed it down to either the maxxis advantage or medusa.

Maxxis Advantage

Maxxis Medusa

View of town on way home

2009-06-21T18:39:00.006-06:00

On way home - view of town and moving weather from microwave tower @ 7000ft.

Town of 5000 looks even smaller from here.

Grip ergonomics

2009-06-20T23:15:00.005-06:00

Getting numb fingers on longer rides,

trying these Ergon GX1 grips out.

Comfortable so far, good support for the up and down, Grip ergonomics.

Lead up to worlds

2009-06-09T23:07:00.012-06:00

6 weeks till solo world championships, 4 week build, 2 week taper arrive 100% ready. Have had a lot of variable weather riding days but not a lot in the scorching heat, hope to get in some hot days before end of July.

Splashed out and broke the bank on a new set of light & motion race lights, stoked on them already that i have forgotten the cash spent.

Have had good preparation to this point, no injuries, had a good pre race in May and excited to tough it out against a strong field of riders again.

In between races

2009-06-04T00:21:00.009-06:00

With a week and abit of recovery riding after Spokane, it is back into interval builds till World Championships end of July in Canmore. Have to get out there in the heat and get used to it.
Thanx for the shades.

Month and half till Canmore, working on some fueling things, changing to light and motion lights, new pair shoes , all good to go.

World Championships

Driving

2009-05-28T21:57:00.014-06:00

Round & Round 24hr Recap

2009-05-25T11:56:00.025-06:00

RoundAndRound.com event in Spokane was a great race, people are so friendly, laid back vibe, well organised, great camping, fun course, strong riders, but didnt get to try the pizza.

24:02:19 hrs, 15 laps, 360km, lost 9lbs, 7th position.

Although less course climbing than other races, it had a couple short tricky sections that can catch you off guard, beautiful location by the river.

I don't think there is easy in the 24hr format, flatter courses just means your hammering longer, either way you get the desired affect and i got the beat down this race.

Race day was 35 degrees celsius, hottest day I have had on the bike this year so far and I was not doing to well with the heat. Started off well with consistent lap times and roll thru pits, managed dinner over 2 laps around 6pm, but the fear started showing around lap 10, 1am.

Lap 12, 4am the fear settled in, couldn't eat, shivering, couldn't warm up, eyes were fluttering and was passing out on the spot. It took 2 hrs to get over this bonk, 45min in the car with heat turned up and another hour in the pit trying to fuel, haven't been this deep before.

I was in 4th position at this stage, but in the worst condition, I have never ridden tempo for 20hrs before. My Wife urged me to regroup to get out and get that podium position, atleast protect my current standing.

Lap 12 bonk pushed me to 7th position, it started heating up again, it was light out and the energy boost of the morning was not there for me. I got out and busted out 2 good laps and on the last descent I was yelling to myself "yes I am done". Through the transition I see my Wife with bottles, I immediately know whats up, she wants me to go out again, oh I was so done and thinking pizza already. There was something like 6 riders jockying for position and I needed 15 laps to protect 7th, I pleaded to sit briefly, stripped layers off, drank and did a driving miss daisy lap to walk up the last short hill, @thequeenofpain passed me fresh as a daisy on the climb and i tried to say something but nothing worked, I was toasted.

To my Wife that drove home 8hrs after up all night and support, amazazING, couldnt do it without them, and the Trek Top Fuel, what can i say "Ultimate endurance machine" rode the same bike all night.

There was a group of local Fernie friends riding in teams and made the not so flowy times so much better, my town is awesome; (250) thanks for the encouragement.

Next stop Canmore, Solo World Championships in July,

another beautiful place, but very unpredictable weather.

Off to the races

2009-05-17T20:41:00.012-06:00

"Its amazing how much time you can spend packing, repacking for an event."

The journey starts 4am tomorrow morning. First stop grandma to drop the boys off, 3hrs and then over the border another 3-4hrs to spokane, do food shop, setup camp, eat, check course out, eat, do some human watching, pass out.

Car packed, some US greenbacks in pocket and off to the big smoke for a weekend.
Hoping cellphone lasts for some twittererer-ing by pit.

Back in a coupla days with some 24 solo updates.
Heard great things about this race www.roundandround.com.

24Hr Round and Round Spokane - 1 week out

2009-05-17T19:07:00.011-06:00

So hopefully at this time next Sunday I will have finished 24hr Round & Round Spokane and home in this exact spot all cracked out after a solid ride and a 7 hour drive home.

For 2 seasons I have used a 2 week taper before events and followed some carb loading method during the tapering period. This year I am moving from classic carb loading thought to the supersaturation method that doesn`t have the low carb starvation phase. Basically I am boosting carb intake over the taper, in my case 2 weeks.

Heres a brief powerbar article:
Carbo Loading Version 2.0 via Powerbar

With a week out I am checking gear, deciding food, burning & charging light batteries, making playlists, washing bottles, eating, resting and getting excited to ride. Just need to find a minder for the dogs and we are all good to go.

Saddle calous, sores

2009-05-14T22:26:00.004-06:00

Got saddle calouses or sores from off season trainer work and you gotta get on the bike next day.

Dont laugh but this nipple cream has given me overnight relief and calouses gone in days.

The thick consistency reduces the abrasiveness against the short, the lanolin moisturisers calouses, instructions say use sparingly, whatever, for a sore ass pack it on just before bed, to get thru a workout pack it on before ride.

Goin for a ride

2009-05-12T23:30:00.000-06:00

Last day of peak 1

2009-05-09T12:16:00.008-06:00

Feels good, weather is cooperating this SATdee, actually see blue sky, but the track is muddy.

Today's the last day of first peak and come Monday we are into our 2 week taper for Spokane race. Feels good to be here, been a long winter, been a great sequence of builds.

Gearing up ere, pumping some tunes, warmup on trainer and off for ride. Coach Lawrence says 4 hour EM ride, rides tapering down.

Training ride gone huge

2009-05-06T13:30:00.004-06:00

Working on same idea for our local region, is called hitch a ride and is for mountain bikers, more info coming this summer.

Weather is what it is, racing in 3 weeks

2009-05-03T20:05:00.005-06:00

Good weather, bad weather, good weather, bad weather happens every year, it is what it is, gotta go with it.

3 weeks to go till spokane race, after the kids being snotty for weeks I finally get some of it, should kick this in a few days.

Dialing in my new top fuel, week of steady state riding coming up then a 2 week taper before race, all set to go.

Hoping for a solid ride at spokane as a build for the season and prep for worlds in july.

Good weather, singletrack

2009-05-02T09:43:00.015-06:00

2 weeks in a row of good weather on Saturday rides, summer is working its magic and i have singletrack to climb & descend all day.

This loop gives me 1765' of climbing per lap, abit under the vertical of the World Solo loop but steeper grade should even things out.

Accumulative vertical always sounds better and is 3530' per lap and should get 14120' (7060' climbing) in by end of ride, will be a good day, blue bird day, awesome views, great downhill and my home is on the loop so i can pit out of the house and dont have to carry tonnes of food - super convenient, just like the race.

Its hike a bike season - warm feet are nice

2009-04-30T23:29:00.007-06:00

This training route climbs to 4800' then descends to 900', with a few good snow traverses at the top to run your bike across.

Still fairly deep snow up high but well worth the walk, these Swiftwick socks I am trying out work good, the cut is high enough for some protection, keeps good fit when wet, surprisingly keeps feet warm when wet, still comfortable when wet.

Best sporting socks ever - Swiftwick

2009-04-29T15:41:00.013-06:00

Gone are the days of wearing 2 sets of cycling sox, these swiftwick socks are something else.

Extremely comfortable, warm and uniform fit throughout (no bunching of sock in ski boot), cant beat merino wool.

Thanks Liebelei.

Single track one day, fresh pow the next

2009-04-23T10:26:00.011-06:00

Was riding dry single track yesterday in warmth, 24 hours later we are approaching a foot of snow, whats going on. Cant fight it - join it, Lawrence can I go do a skin workout and ski fresh pow instead of trainer today.

While on the topic of skinning, here's 24 hour ski race been looking to do for awhile, 2010 may be the season, check out www.superhumanmag.com its sick !

4 weeks till racing in Spokane

2009-04-22T01:46:00.005-06:00

1 month to go till 24 hour in Spokane WA,
snow still melting in Fernie,

have 1 singletrack open that gives me 1100ft of climbing, fun fast downhill, and enough offroad routes for long rides,
i think i have what i need to deliver me to event
and of course i have my CTS coach; lawrence mize

Gear all accounted for, passport is valid,
stoked to try out my Swiftwick socks
and try these all the rage Action Wipes out.

RoundAndRound

Single track snow removal

2009-04-20T22:39:00.003-06:00

Gave single track abit of help with clearing itself, took a shovel to "Roots" and you can ride the first loop. Cellphone photos not too good, but great view watching the weather pass by late evening. Hopefully riding single track tomorrow April 20th, i say hope, snow is in the forecast.

Action Wipes - natural, reusable !

2009-04-19T12:35:00.007-06:00

Found this reusable product, Action-Wipes, so much wipe wastage at 24hr races.

Think i could use one here.

"Durable, washable, reusable, made with natural ingredients, therapeutic aromatherapy oils of eucalypt and tea tree"

Jesse loves his new bike !

2009-04-18T23:54:00.003-06:00

Jesse loves his new bike !

Doesnt want to get it dirty.

Top Fuel 9.8

Todays ride, feel like a sherpa

2009-04-18T09:34:00.008-06:00

Todays ride, heading out from Fernie to torquoise route: Lodgepole-Harvey Pass US border bound, searching for climbs but expect to hit snowlines, need 5hrs in saddle today (dont worry lawrence only 5). Feel like a sherpa humping all this food in.

6.5hrs later, miscalculated route time, abit of weather to start, soaked in mud in first hour, a few mtn passes, circumnav broadwood, finish with warm blue bird day.

Clean diet caveat, are you getting the sodium intake ?

2009-04-15T10:09:00.006-06:00

With slight cramping on some longer training rides of 4-6 hours i questioned my fueling strategy. With adequate hourly intake of food and sports drink i questioned my pre ride loading and diet.

With trying to eat a whole food diet for a clean burn, i discover that i may not be getting the sodium intake i require. This may explain the problems i experience in the first 6 hrs of these races.

Although i dont want to drop the clean diet, i am paying more attention to pre-loading and i think its working. For information on sodium loading check this FirstEndurance post, and if you have issues try the test it may help.

Routes on google earth

2009-04-12T21:38:00.012-06:00

Snow is melting and routes are opening up, here is some work in progress loops, pick and choose from 50km to 200km loops.

Mountain passes still closed, green loop to the south you can climb up 3/4 ways.

If you got google earth load this KML for more routes, cool app for scoping mountain missions.

Interior BC Canada, Alberta to the east, Glacier National Park USA to the south.

Biking lifestyle

2009-03-25T23:45:00.000-06:00

Bikes from Mat Barlow on Vimeo.

Motivationals

2009-03-19T09:57:00.005-06:00

Mental focus

2009-03-18T11:37:00.008-06:00

Spring around the corner, 2 months till first 24 hour for season, training is ramping up for its first peak, snow still outside, and playing the waiting game for the melt and rideable trail

Coach Lawrence has me on high threshold riding and getting a glimpse of where I am at and the gains from work over winter, I transitioned last October with unstructured riding for about 3 weeks and resumed schedule training from November till now indoors

Over winter I have been trying to keep my mental focus entirely on cycling, being fanatical about riding and racing

I have had difficulties getting started in these races so the Spokane race in May is a test run to try a few things before 2009 worlds

Training concerns I have my CTS coach, my support is dialed, my nutrition plan evolves each season, I have most of the equipment I need, mental focus is my weak link

Trying to really concentrate this time around, don’t be distracted, start focusing earlier be in that zone well before race day, stick to the game plan, dont hold anything back

“Focus and be the right dude at the right time”
Cam Mccaul (Seasons)

Anti bike theft, does not work on carbon frames

2009-03-15T20:38:00.001-06:00

High-Tech Antitheft Bicycle Spray
The threat of bicycle theft remains one of the main deterrents to urban cycling. The problem is that your bicycle is worth money thus thieves want it. Good locks will make the bike more difficult to steal but they don't make it less attractive. The thief will thus seek a way to defeat your locks.

That's why WorkCycles unique Bicycle Antitheft Spray is so unique. Instead of defending against cutters, jacks and grinders it attacks the underlying motivation: desire. After applying Bicycle Antitheft Spray your bicycle appears so worthless that locks are necessary only to avoid having your bike picked up by the trash collectors.

The secret ingredient to Bicycle Antitheft Spray is a specially developed electromagnetically activated, powdered memory metal. This amazing material was initially developed to stow giant reflectors and antennas inside small satellites.
Antitheft Spray is easy and fun to use: Just spray liberally over your bicycle, wait one hour to cure and then hammer, bend and kick your bike into a suitable, undesirable shape. The instruction book includes tips and examples. With the press of the activator button the bicycle will spring back to its original form and color!
Available only in red. Kit includes Antitheft Spray, instruction manual, seat-tube mounted activator switch and rechargeable battery pack. Tools not included. Works on all metal and leather parts.

Spring a week away

2009-03-14T19:40:00.007-06:00

With spring a week away, mountain bike videos are out and got the stoke on, but still snowing.

The Collective movies, for all avid mountain bikers.

First Endurance optygen prototype

2009-03-12T20:18:00.005-06:00

FE working on next next generation optygen, you mean it gets even better.

Link

Top Fuel Technology

2009-03-12T12:18:00.004-06:00

Swiftwick Merino, Olefin performance socks

2009-03-05T17:56:00.005-07:00

Thanks SWIFTWICK for your sponsorship, cant wait to replace my socks with swiftwick and be warm this spring, could even test out a pair of ski socks it wont stop snowing.

Spokane 24 hour solo countdown

2009-02-26T14:31:00.003-07:00

Last equipment orders, organise pit needs, bike arriving in april, got minders for the boys, passport, registered paid in full - all good to go.

A big bunch of Fernie riders are racing also should be fun.

Course map here.

More weather - psyche

2009-02-25T13:35:00.002-07:00

Just as I was getting excited with warmer temps and snow melt more blizzards roll in, feels like I am training for the alaskan iditarod.

Type 1 & 2 diabetic athletes

2009-02-19T15:32:00.003-07:00

Do you have or know someone with diabetes? Check these inspirational people Team Type 1.

Team Type 1 are on their journey to professional cycling’s greatest race, the Tour de France, they are shooting to get there by 2012.

Splitting rides inside / outside

2009-02-19T14:55:00.005-07:00

Time in the saddle is ramping up in prep for Spokane 24hour. Fulfilling total workout times by doing intervals inside, jumping on bike and finishing outside in the snow (sometimes start outside). Forecast for 15-30cm of snow over weekend, so I am at the mercy of weather and discipline to train inside. Could possibly drive down to Montana and ride - black ice scares me.

Trek Bikes - Parker Zimmer

2009-02-19T14:24:00.005-07:00

Big thanks to TrekBikes for considering me for sponsorship, greatly appreciated, I am looking forward to building a relationship and brand representation over this season into 2010.

Cheers Parker
Trek the Company

It snows in Fernie

2009-02-18T00:11:00.003-07:00

This photo is from 2008, it snowed 31ft in a season.

It snows here and it snows good.

MTB Awareness in the Elk Valley

2009-02-17T23:25:00.005-07:00

Through my cycling I want to represent the mountain bike lifestyle in the Elk Valley, its value and the importance of our trail systems. With on-going development in the valley our trails are subject to pressure as housing estates, golf courses and land reclamations surface.

Promoting MTB via media and local events is to generate awareness of our evolving world class trail systems, its geography and the need for land use planning to consider integrating with MTB so to preserve trails.