1.
Is there Freewill? We call some people and acts responsible and others irresponsible. We say people are responsible for certain tasks because of their job or position e.g. being a parent. Again, we blame people for certain acts or omissions, hold them accountable, culpable. But, it might be claimed, a person’s choices, acts, temperament, personality are the natural outcome of his genes, parental, peer, and social influences, and possibly trauma and pathogens – illness. The human mind in its choices and will cannot transcend causality concerning natural phenomena.
Individuals make choices and perform acts which seem free in that they are voluntary (not the result of external or internal compulsion, or accident) and made with awareness. But perhaps choices (and acts) which seem free because voluntary and done with awareness are at a deeper physiological, psychological (or psychoanalytic) brain/mind level not free because they are fully accounted for by scientific natural laws concerning brain or psychic processes and prior brain or psychic states. That is, the human will is not free because it is entirely part of nature and entirely governed by natural laws. There is no mysterious entity – the mind or soul – standing outside natural causal processes which directs or informs the will (choices).
The more we know about the brain and psychology the less plausible it seems that voluntary, aware choices and acts are directed and controlled by a self which stands outside the causal chain. (That the causal chain is ultimately quantum mechanistic rather than Newtonian/Cartesian does not matter.) The notion of the self as uncaused, not naturally determined, controlling agent seems to dissolve under scientific scrutiny of choices and actions. Choices, sensations, desires, beliefs, feelings, values are just as much part of the natural causal world as electromagnetism, chemical reactions, sunsets, rainbows, coal, cheese, flowers, birds, insects, reptiles, bacteria, and cancer cells. That humans have (or do not have) freewill seems to be an empirical claim (though somewhat nebulous/woolly) and the evidence seems against it.
2
Is there individual responsibility without freewill? Even if freewill is an illusion (when we act voluntarily with awareness we don’t feel compelled) is there still some sense in which an individual bears some responsibility for his own choices, actions, behavior, and hence his own situation? It is difficult to see how society could function if we didn’t hold people in some degree responsible for their voluntary, aware (though perhaps not fully aware) choices and actions, e.g. ‘It’s not my fault I went to the pub instead of staying home and doing my chores and assignments’. But isn’t individual, personal responsibility more than a convenient or necessary fiction or myth? Can one legitimately, reasonably just blame parents, genes, society, big business, Western imperialism, etc. for one’s choices and actions or one’s poor situation or bad behaviour (even if one was to some extent disadvantaged, abused, or neglected)?
Is it justifiable for an individual to blame his situation, poor choices, lack of self-discipline, selfishness, lack of concern for others, greed, neuroses, fixations, etc. on his genes, parenting, society, or relatively poor start in life? When should excuses for one’s bad behaviour or blaming others for one’s relatively poor situation stop? When does blaming others for one’s own (or one’s group’s) relative poverty, lack of achievement, negative behaviours become unreasonable/unjustifiable. At what point do false sense of entitlement, unrealistic expectations, cult of victimhood, scapegoating, or even laziness come into play? When is your start in life or social situation so bad that you don’t really have a chance? When is belonging to a so-called visible minority or disadvantaged group or past injustices no longer an excuse? To what extent do poorer cultures or societies bear responsibility for their condition?
How much is the average individual responsible for environmental destruction, war, social injustice rather than say government, big business, capitalism, Western imperialism? How much is the dark, greedy, selfish side in each of us not just the system?
3
Psychological determinants of choice and behaviour. To what extent can an individual modify his own behaviours, responses, emotions, desires? What determines whether an individual will try to modify his behaviors, etc. and persist in the effort? Why do some people become stuck in self or other harming or unproductive, limiting behaviours? Why do some not bother to take advantage of opportunities which do exist for self-improvement and advancement? Why do some people turn to drugs, alcohol, television, or gambling rather than activities which bring inner enrichment and satisfaction such as art, music, literature, dance, athletics, sport, meditation, communing with nature, learning another language, community service? Why do even some artists, writers, or athletes turn to drugs or alcohol, or commit suicide? Is it : genes ; inadequate training in interpersonal skills, self-discipline, organization, realistic expectations, accepting unpleasantness and unfairness as part of life, dealing with upsetting feelings ; lack of love, neglect, or abuse ; poverty?
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Cycling and Philosophy. Meeting.
Cycling and Philosophy. Tuesday 11/8/09
Inaugural meeting of Velociraptors – new non-profit society for promoting cycling and friendly open critical thinking on social and philosophical issues. Thursday 20th August 7-9pm. Lounge 1550 Arrow Rd. Free. Notify ahead. Velociraptors will hold regular rides and discussions. Attention is given to physical, mental, emotional, and social well being. Velociraptors emphasises empathetic, clear exploration of different viewpoints, arguments, and objections. Support of cycling for transport, recreation, and athletics is required but you do not need to be a dedicated cycle tourer or racer. More information at: (778) 430-0646, drvelociraptor.blogspot.com, velociraptors.ca, or email davidmercerphd@yahoo.ca
Thanks,
David Mercer, #2 – 1550 Arrow Rd. Victoria BC. V8N 1C6
Inaugural meeting of Velociraptors – new non-profit society for promoting cycling and friendly open critical thinking on social and philosophical issues. Thursday 20th August 7-9pm. Lounge 1550 Arrow Rd. Free. Notify ahead. Velociraptors will hold regular rides and discussions. Attention is given to physical, mental, emotional, and social well being. Velociraptors emphasises empathetic, clear exploration of different viewpoints, arguments, and objections. Support of cycling for transport, recreation, and athletics is required but you do not need to be a dedicated cycle tourer or racer. More information at: (778) 430-0646, drvelociraptor.blogspot.com, velociraptors.ca, or email davidmercerphd@yahoo.ca
Thanks,
David Mercer, #2 – 1550 Arrow Rd. Victoria BC. V8N 1C6
Monday, August 10, 2009
Velociraptors and Cycle Racing
Velociraptors promotes non-elite cycle racing – recreational, club cycle racing – safe, fun cycle racing for all ages and ability levels (including those with disabilities). The emphasis is on participation, increased fitness and well-being, athletic exhilaration and fellowship not on winning or on being the best you possibly can be. Velociraptors cycle racing moves away from ego competition and sports stars.
Many cyclists do not have the time, inclination, or genes to become elite racers. They have other priorities, interests, and commitments besides cycling and cycle racing. Nevertheless, these ‘part-time’ racers get enjoyment and satisfaction from the racing experience and pushing themselves a bit harder than they would on a recreational ride. They want to see how well they can do on a limited amount of time available for training and racing – say 6 to 8 hours per week. For many people athletics or cycle racing is only part of a healthy, rich lifestyle. There are also science, literature, art, music, philosophy, emotional development, spirituality, community service, etc.
If Velociraptors does not cater to ‘serious’, ‘dedicated’ racers why bother with racing at all? One answer is that there is no sharp divide between riding (running or swimming) for general fitness and racing. As you become fit it is natural to time yourself over a given distance. Then you set yourself a personal goal of beating a certain time. You then have a natural desire to see how well you can do in a formal setting relative to others.
Velociraptors cycle racing caters to people who are left out of ‘serious’ competitive racing, e.g. those of moderate ability; those 50 or over. In particular, Velociraptors seeks to attract women over 40 to cycle racing. Cycle racing is a demanding sport but it need be no more demanding than say 10k or half-marathon running.
Velociraptors strongly supports cycle racing being part of schools and college athletic programs. It is likely that the legitimacy of cycling for transport and of cyclists’ rights are enhanced by acceptance of cycle racing as a popular sport – one not requiring immense amounts of training and fanatical dedication. A major factor in gaining acceptance for cycle racing as a sport like running which most can participate in is to have cycle racing recognized as school sport.
Velociraptors strongly supports handicap cycle racing – races in which riders get a start or time allowance based on ability or age.
Velociraptors lobbies for Municipal or Parks authorities to set aside space on playing fields for 500 or 400 metre safe cycle race circuits (grass or similar soft surface), e.g. circuit around 2 side by side soccer pitches. Disused running tracks might also do.
Velociraptors promotes cycle rides which are between races and recreational group rides, viz. reliability rides. In these, people start in groups of about 8 at about 2 minute intervals. Everyone is given a time for the distance say 20k or 40k but there are no prizes for fastest times, no winners as such. Drafting is permitted.
You do not have to race, ever, in order to be a member of Velociraptors. You just have to support non-elite cycle racing. This may take the form of helping out occasionally with a cycle race or reliability ride, e.g. marshalling, assisting with sign-on, setting up course signage, timekeeping, judging finishing order. Helping out with non-elite cycle racing is a form of community service and cycling activism. It helps raise environmental and health awareness too.
Because Velociraptors includes promoting cycle races it must be registered with Cycling BC. This means that Velociraptors members must have a Cycling BC license which gives insurance coverage before they can participate (after an initial trial) in Velociraptors group rides even if they never race.
Many cyclists do not have the time, inclination, or genes to become elite racers. They have other priorities, interests, and commitments besides cycling and cycle racing. Nevertheless, these ‘part-time’ racers get enjoyment and satisfaction from the racing experience and pushing themselves a bit harder than they would on a recreational ride. They want to see how well they can do on a limited amount of time available for training and racing – say 6 to 8 hours per week. For many people athletics or cycle racing is only part of a healthy, rich lifestyle. There are also science, literature, art, music, philosophy, emotional development, spirituality, community service, etc.
If Velociraptors does not cater to ‘serious’, ‘dedicated’ racers why bother with racing at all? One answer is that there is no sharp divide between riding (running or swimming) for general fitness and racing. As you become fit it is natural to time yourself over a given distance. Then you set yourself a personal goal of beating a certain time. You then have a natural desire to see how well you can do in a formal setting relative to others.
Velociraptors cycle racing caters to people who are left out of ‘serious’ competitive racing, e.g. those of moderate ability; those 50 or over. In particular, Velociraptors seeks to attract women over 40 to cycle racing. Cycle racing is a demanding sport but it need be no more demanding than say 10k or half-marathon running.
Velociraptors strongly supports cycle racing being part of schools and college athletic programs. It is likely that the legitimacy of cycling for transport and of cyclists’ rights are enhanced by acceptance of cycle racing as a popular sport – one not requiring immense amounts of training and fanatical dedication. A major factor in gaining acceptance for cycle racing as a sport like running which most can participate in is to have cycle racing recognized as school sport.
Velociraptors strongly supports handicap cycle racing – races in which riders get a start or time allowance based on ability or age.
Velociraptors lobbies for Municipal or Parks authorities to set aside space on playing fields for 500 or 400 metre safe cycle race circuits (grass or similar soft surface), e.g. circuit around 2 side by side soccer pitches. Disused running tracks might also do.
Velociraptors promotes cycle rides which are between races and recreational group rides, viz. reliability rides. In these, people start in groups of about 8 at about 2 minute intervals. Everyone is given a time for the distance say 20k or 40k but there are no prizes for fastest times, no winners as such. Drafting is permitted.
You do not have to race, ever, in order to be a member of Velociraptors. You just have to support non-elite cycle racing. This may take the form of helping out occasionally with a cycle race or reliability ride, e.g. marshalling, assisting with sign-on, setting up course signage, timekeeping, judging finishing order. Helping out with non-elite cycle racing is a form of community service and cycling activism. It helps raise environmental and health awareness too.
Because Velociraptors includes promoting cycle races it must be registered with Cycling BC. This means that Velociraptors members must have a Cycling BC license which gives insurance coverage before they can participate (after an initial trial) in Velociraptors group rides even if they never race.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Velociraptors and Philosophy
Velociraptors Cycling Association www.velociraptors.ca combines support of cycling with support of philosophical exploration. But why combine cycling and philosophy? Why not cycling and music, or cycling and art, literature, science, socialism, vegetarianism, or Buddhism?
Philosophy involves clarifying and questioning core guiding beliefs, values, and presuppositions which many take for granted. Cycling is a physical embodiment of philosophical questioning. By choosing to ride a bike on public roads instead of using motorized transport (or the subway) you are challenging contemporary mainstream views about lifestyle, social and political goals. Arguably, cycling, more than being an artist, musician, poet, runner, atheist, or socialist, shows a personal commitment to an alternative, environmentally friendly, self-sufficient lifestyle. Granted there are affluent cyclists as there are wealthy or well-off artists, writers, atheists, and academic left-wingers or liberals. Many cyclists own cars, property, stocks and bonds. Nevertheless, the act of cycling challenges the cult of the private automobile and thus attacks the heart of consumerism and the pursuit of wealth.
Cycling, perhaps more than any other activity or sport merges practicality – transport, travel – with physical, mental, and social well-being. Cycling offers personal liberation as well as a deeper connexion with nature – being mobile and independent in all weathers and terrains.
Philosophy does not mean just criticizing traditional, right-wing, establishment, fundamentalist positions, or scientific materialism, logical positivism, capitalism, or Western values. Philosophy recognizes that left-wing, politically correct, liberal, anti-logical/rationalist/scientific thinking, postmodern, trendy, deconstructionist, or relativist views may also contain dogmas, biases, confusions, and nebulous, woolly concepts and assertions. Thus Velociraptors welcomes people of different political, religious, and philosophical persuasions from Catholic to atheist, Conservative to Marxist, mystic to sceptic.
Philosophy need not be just an academic exercise or intellectual pursuit. Being willing to open all views to questioning even (perhaps especially) those which are congenial/appealing or distasteful/threatening to oneself does not mean being apolitical or espousing relativism – the doctrine that all views, values, or cultures are equally reasonable or plausible (there are no trans-cultural standards of objectivity). The practice of philosophical clarification, questioning, and exploration may lead to deeper, more balanced values and commitment.
Velociraptors recognizes that disagreement is inevitable in an open society. Disagreement though often upsetting can be enriching. Perhaps civilized, courteous, empathetic life is the art of accepting and respecting disagreement.
Velociraptors is committed to promoting social justice but eschews dogmas about what this consists in and methods for attaining it.
Philosophy involves clarifying and questioning core guiding beliefs, values, and presuppositions which many take for granted. Cycling is a physical embodiment of philosophical questioning. By choosing to ride a bike on public roads instead of using motorized transport (or the subway) you are challenging contemporary mainstream views about lifestyle, social and political goals. Arguably, cycling, more than being an artist, musician, poet, runner, atheist, or socialist, shows a personal commitment to an alternative, environmentally friendly, self-sufficient lifestyle. Granted there are affluent cyclists as there are wealthy or well-off artists, writers, atheists, and academic left-wingers or liberals. Many cyclists own cars, property, stocks and bonds. Nevertheless, the act of cycling challenges the cult of the private automobile and thus attacks the heart of consumerism and the pursuit of wealth.
Cycling, perhaps more than any other activity or sport merges practicality – transport, travel – with physical, mental, and social well-being. Cycling offers personal liberation as well as a deeper connexion with nature – being mobile and independent in all weathers and terrains.
Philosophy does not mean just criticizing traditional, right-wing, establishment, fundamentalist positions, or scientific materialism, logical positivism, capitalism, or Western values. Philosophy recognizes that left-wing, politically correct, liberal, anti-logical/rationalist/scientific thinking, postmodern, trendy, deconstructionist, or relativist views may also contain dogmas, biases, confusions, and nebulous, woolly concepts and assertions. Thus Velociraptors welcomes people of different political, religious, and philosophical persuasions from Catholic to atheist, Conservative to Marxist, mystic to sceptic.
Philosophy need not be just an academic exercise or intellectual pursuit. Being willing to open all views to questioning even (perhaps especially) those which are congenial/appealing or distasteful/threatening to oneself does not mean being apolitical or espousing relativism – the doctrine that all views, values, or cultures are equally reasonable or plausible (there are no trans-cultural standards of objectivity). The practice of philosophical clarification, questioning, and exploration may lead to deeper, more balanced values and commitment.
Velociraptors recognizes that disagreement is inevitable in an open society. Disagreement though often upsetting can be enriching. Perhaps civilized, courteous, empathetic life is the art of accepting and respecting disagreement.
Velociraptors is committed to promoting social justice but eschews dogmas about what this consists in and methods for attaining it.
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Race Photos, Results, Duane Martindale.
For the past 3 seasons geneticist Dr. Duane Martindale, a past BCMCA overall champion, VCL overall winner B division, and 50 – 54 record holder Sidney time trial (24’ 01’’), has limited his own racing program in order to provide extensive photographic coverage and to coordinate race results for the BCMCA, Sidney Velo, and the Victoria Cycling League. Duane’s photos are regularly cited in my race reports. They are found at duanebc.com or bcmasterscycling.net. Photos are picked for aesthetic, dramatic, or instructional quality.
In cycle racing position on the bike is all important : be streamlined, powerful, relaxed, flat back, bent arms, fitting smoothly almost flowing over the bike. In order to see what a great time trial (or racing) position looks like go to Duane’s photos of Michael Stoehr Vh. D. (Dr. of Velosophy), Sidney Velo tt June 16th 2009 #40 – 43, May 19th #7 –11. Also study the photos of Emile de Rosnay June 2nd #49 –50, and May 26th #54 – 58. For the acme in aero (yet efficient, not strained) consult pictures of Super aero Don ‘Arrowman’ Gilmore, record holder on 3 BC time trial courses, eg. Sidney tt July 14th #3 – 7. Other models for style : ultra fast Stephen Baird former swimming champion; junior sensation Craig Logan – already 1st/2nd cat at 17; several lovely athletic women, eg. former track star Peggy Labiuk (Maass) – watch for names and pics of others; The Unknown Racer Sidney tt June 23rd #63 – 64. You may never ride as fast as these guys but if you learn to look like them you’ll be cool (and faster than if you didn’t have their style).
For more festive shots of cycle racing see The Chicks, Nanaimo River Road team tt 14th June 2009, #24; also Newton Heights June 3rd Aviawest coach Steve Lund winning with exuberant family support #78 –83.
Duane, a bird watcher, started cycle racing in his 40s after volleyball, and is believed to be conserving his energy for a major racing comeback in his 60s. Initial thoughts of beginning his comeback in 2010 received a setback when Duane realized he would then be giving 5 minutes start to rouleur extraordinaire and quadruple campionissimo Derek Tripp one year his senior. However, it is rumoured that 50s riders may be clubbing together to give Derek a sabbatical.
Duane is married to Dr. Helen Martindale optometrist, tennis player, versatile race organizer, and experienced marshall. Literary racers will savour Helen’s association through Trinity College Dublin with Oscar Wilde and James Joyce.
Duane’s trademark is a rock steady stay in the saddle position. He is still in with an outside chance at a prestigious, super elite breakthrough of the 24 minute barrier in the Sidney Velo 18k, but only if Helen lets him buy a new ridiculously expensive time trial bike. Early season training in Arizona might also be required. Costly yes, but this is the price (pun intended) you have to pay to beat Stephen ‘diesel thighs’ Price – 24’ 17’’ at age 61! Captain Chris Anstey, former Masters World Track Champion, another sexy sexagenarian, is still holding in battle formation and stoking up the knots on an array of equipment.
In cycle racing position on the bike is all important : be streamlined, powerful, relaxed, flat back, bent arms, fitting smoothly almost flowing over the bike. In order to see what a great time trial (or racing) position looks like go to Duane’s photos of Michael Stoehr Vh. D. (Dr. of Velosophy), Sidney Velo tt June 16th 2009 #40 – 43, May 19th #7 –11. Also study the photos of Emile de Rosnay June 2nd #49 –50, and May 26th #54 – 58. For the acme in aero (yet efficient, not strained) consult pictures of Super aero Don ‘Arrowman’ Gilmore, record holder on 3 BC time trial courses, eg. Sidney tt July 14th #3 – 7. Other models for style : ultra fast Stephen Baird former swimming champion; junior sensation Craig Logan – already 1st/2nd cat at 17; several lovely athletic women, eg. former track star Peggy Labiuk (Maass) – watch for names and pics of others; The Unknown Racer Sidney tt June 23rd #63 – 64. You may never ride as fast as these guys but if you learn to look like them you’ll be cool (and faster than if you didn’t have their style).
For more festive shots of cycle racing see The Chicks, Nanaimo River Road team tt 14th June 2009, #24; also Newton Heights June 3rd Aviawest coach Steve Lund winning with exuberant family support #78 –83.
Duane, a bird watcher, started cycle racing in his 40s after volleyball, and is believed to be conserving his energy for a major racing comeback in his 60s. Initial thoughts of beginning his comeback in 2010 received a setback when Duane realized he would then be giving 5 minutes start to rouleur extraordinaire and quadruple campionissimo Derek Tripp one year his senior. However, it is rumoured that 50s riders may be clubbing together to give Derek a sabbatical.
Duane is married to Dr. Helen Martindale optometrist, tennis player, versatile race organizer, and experienced marshall. Literary racers will savour Helen’s association through Trinity College Dublin with Oscar Wilde and James Joyce.
Duane’s trademark is a rock steady stay in the saddle position. He is still in with an outside chance at a prestigious, super elite breakthrough of the 24 minute barrier in the Sidney Velo 18k, but only if Helen lets him buy a new ridiculously expensive time trial bike. Early season training in Arizona might also be required. Costly yes, but this is the price (pun intended) you have to pay to beat Stephen ‘diesel thighs’ Price – 24’ 17’’ at age 61! Captain Chris Anstey, former Masters World Track Champion, another sexy sexagenarian, is still holding in battle formation and stoking up the knots on an array of equipment.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Courtney Arcadian Omnium Sat/Sun July 11 -12 2009
Comox Valley Cycling Club set an example of community oriented cycle racing. Racers ranged from age 11 to 71. A post-race meal together is an important part of promoting athletic fellowship and our noble sport. Thus the Saturday evening buffet dinner at the soccer clubhouse adjacent to Isfeld school was a good feature of the weekend omnium. Excellent conversation and food. Enjoyed chatting with May Jung (at the front in the B road race and hard on the wheel of Bill Yearwood in the hill climb) compact, powerful Ironwoman, North Vancouver Fitness trainer, and mother of 3 junior athletes.
In the pre-road race warm-up, Saturday morning, liked talking with tall Louis Watson (30s) Nanaimo, former UK Henley rower, and especially giving him a lead-out for a practice sprint. Louis discovered that 500 metres was too early to go. I like to think this preview aided his win in the A race. Pleasant discussion Sunday afternoon with Trevor Perkins (3rd A road race, 3rd A omnium) former pro downhill racer, Fort McMurray worker, in delightful Lewis riverside park Courtney – family swimming. Trevor confirmed Louis was the strong man in the As, often at the front.
As with the As a lead group of 12 or so stayed together to the end in the B road race. David Mercer got a gap of about 150 metres on the hill on the 3rd and 4th laps but was absorbed again by the highway. Bill Captain Helijet Yearwood was doing powerful surges at the front on the downhill, and instructing younger riders on the etiquette of also doing a turn. In the sprint Stuart Lynne (55) Vancouver, prominent at the front throughout, led out at about 600m with Mercer on his wheel. Mighty Mike Sevcov (56) Duncan roared by, then Bill, and Bill just got it as Mike faded in the last 40 metres.
The 60s were unlucky with Ray Morrison (Kelowna) puncturing twice, gentleman coureur Charles Sinclair and Swiss Canadian Chris Hahlen (Vancouver) former Ottawa Parliament chef and dairy farmer also flatting.
Magnanimous Duane Martindale (see separate blog) dropped out of the Bs with 1 lap to go even though very comfortable in the lead group. This was to take photos and help with the placings.
An energizing aspect of the Bs road race was the mix of riders – fast juniors, women, 55-59s, together with stately 60s. A bonus of cycle racing is getting to indulge a liking for athletic pulchritude arrayed in brightly coloured, figure-enhancing clothing. Redolent of archetypes of Homeric adventures and Olympian festivals. Remember Keats’ ‘Ode on a Grecian Urn’. Good to see Icelandic Canadian Lisa Ingimunson returning to Masters after Maple Bay. Amazonian triathlete beauty Audrey Erlandson scorched the tt in 25’ 39’’ after graciously stopping in the B road race to give Ray Morrison a spare inner tube. Tall, lissome Amanda Wakeling 15 had one of the most stylish finishes in the mountain climb – hands on drops, photos # 81-3.
In the Sunday morning time trial David Mercer received a humbling shock when at 12 k he thought he heard a car approaching. It turned out to be Ray Wagner catching him for 2 minutes! Another appropriately operatic display by Ray to add to the saga. Super aero Don Gilmore (42) Shawnigan Lake hadn’t realized the tt start was moved up but fortunately was allowed to ride late. Don bolted round the 16 k loop in a breath taking 21’ 12’’ for course record (to add to his Nanaimo River Rd., and Old Lake Cowichan Rd. records). It would add interest and incentive to assemble overall and age group records for all Masters courses, circuits, and hill climbs.
There is something mythical, mystical, epic about bicycle mountain climbs. The symbolic ascent to Olympus; Mt.Everest. Riders ahead of you spread all over the mountain labouring as frozen in slow motion. Hugh Trenchard (Victoria, 40-44) went from the gun as though in a track pursuit. Ray Wagner and others quickly found this pace was suicidal for them. Many found it difficult to gauge their efforts, not saving something for the last 3 rises. Mike Sevcov looked to be overgeared. Some wished for a gear between 39 ´27 and 39 ´24.
Winner of the mountain climb and 2nd A omnium Peter Stevenson (Duncan, 40-4) again demonstrated his seemingly easy hill devouring form. Perhaps the best overall performance was by 15 year old Jordan Duncan (son of gourmet spinach lady Joanna) – 4th B road race, 24’32’’ tt, and 9th hill climb in 35’ 50”. Nevertheless Bill Yearwood’s (Vancouver, 57) victory in the B omnium was well-earned and deserved. In the mountain climb Bill alongside David Mercer helped both recover early lost ground. Mercer moved ahead on the later ascents with Bill pounding back on the brief descents (see Clafleur photo # 0826).
Gutsy rides from Thomas Andrew age 13 (3rd C road race), Jake van der Vliet also 13, and Kia van der Vliet 11 on very jazzy yellow bike - more budding Flying Dutchpersons! The racing contribution of hippy endurance man Ernie Klassen Black Creek was appreciated.
The hardest worker of the weekend was perhaps Linda Sinclair (ex- Western Washington University Bellingham teacher) who took on both registration and results coordinating for 3 races each embodying 3 separate categories. The lovely Susanna partner of Casey Ryder (Victoria, 40-4) versatile racer and jazz guitar maestro added charm to the medal ceremonies.
Best viewing spots : Road race and tt – top of Piercy Rd. climb before decline to highway. Mtn. Climb – top of penultimate rise looking down on hairpin bend; take binoculars.
Photo Pick. RR. #14 Louis Watson in superb tt position leading Ray Wagner.
B sprint. From East side: #18 –36, especially # 22 – 29. Excellent study of Bill Yearwood hurtling himself across the line. From West side: #38 –41.
A sprint. From W. side: #58 –73. Note Louis Watson head and shoulders down in beginning. Fine aggressive aero form from 4th place Jeff Natell. From E. side: #74 –81. Note #77 good low back, elbows out, and line lunge by 3rd place Trevor Perkins.
Hill climb finish. #7 winner Peter Stevenson on drops out of saddle for finishing burst. Best power finish – Bill Yearwood on drops out of saddle # 49 – 51.
Best finishing smile – Mike Sevcov # 46.
Clafleur RR # 0746 Louis Watson tt position leading at lap end.
B sprint. # 0751. Also other beautiful dramatic shots during mountain climb.
In the pre-road race warm-up, Saturday morning, liked talking with tall Louis Watson (30s) Nanaimo, former UK Henley rower, and especially giving him a lead-out for a practice sprint. Louis discovered that 500 metres was too early to go. I like to think this preview aided his win in the A race. Pleasant discussion Sunday afternoon with Trevor Perkins (3rd A road race, 3rd A omnium) former pro downhill racer, Fort McMurray worker, in delightful Lewis riverside park Courtney – family swimming. Trevor confirmed Louis was the strong man in the As, often at the front.
As with the As a lead group of 12 or so stayed together to the end in the B road race. David Mercer got a gap of about 150 metres on the hill on the 3rd and 4th laps but was absorbed again by the highway. Bill Captain Helijet Yearwood was doing powerful surges at the front on the downhill, and instructing younger riders on the etiquette of also doing a turn. In the sprint Stuart Lynne (55) Vancouver, prominent at the front throughout, led out at about 600m with Mercer on his wheel. Mighty Mike Sevcov (56) Duncan roared by, then Bill, and Bill just got it as Mike faded in the last 40 metres.
The 60s were unlucky with Ray Morrison (Kelowna) puncturing twice, gentleman coureur Charles Sinclair and Swiss Canadian Chris Hahlen (Vancouver) former Ottawa Parliament chef and dairy farmer also flatting.
Magnanimous Duane Martindale (see separate blog) dropped out of the Bs with 1 lap to go even though very comfortable in the lead group. This was to take photos and help with the placings.
An energizing aspect of the Bs road race was the mix of riders – fast juniors, women, 55-59s, together with stately 60s. A bonus of cycle racing is getting to indulge a liking for athletic pulchritude arrayed in brightly coloured, figure-enhancing clothing. Redolent of archetypes of Homeric adventures and Olympian festivals. Remember Keats’ ‘Ode on a Grecian Urn’. Good to see Icelandic Canadian Lisa Ingimunson returning to Masters after Maple Bay. Amazonian triathlete beauty Audrey Erlandson scorched the tt in 25’ 39’’ after graciously stopping in the B road race to give Ray Morrison a spare inner tube. Tall, lissome Amanda Wakeling 15 had one of the most stylish finishes in the mountain climb – hands on drops, photos # 81-3.
In the Sunday morning time trial David Mercer received a humbling shock when at 12 k he thought he heard a car approaching. It turned out to be Ray Wagner catching him for 2 minutes! Another appropriately operatic display by Ray to add to the saga. Super aero Don Gilmore (42) Shawnigan Lake hadn’t realized the tt start was moved up but fortunately was allowed to ride late. Don bolted round the 16 k loop in a breath taking 21’ 12’’ for course record (to add to his Nanaimo River Rd., and Old Lake Cowichan Rd. records). It would add interest and incentive to assemble overall and age group records for all Masters courses, circuits, and hill climbs.
There is something mythical, mystical, epic about bicycle mountain climbs. The symbolic ascent to Olympus; Mt.Everest. Riders ahead of you spread all over the mountain labouring as frozen in slow motion. Hugh Trenchard (Victoria, 40-44) went from the gun as though in a track pursuit. Ray Wagner and others quickly found this pace was suicidal for them. Many found it difficult to gauge their efforts, not saving something for the last 3 rises. Mike Sevcov looked to be overgeared. Some wished for a gear between 39 ´27 and 39 ´24.
Winner of the mountain climb and 2nd A omnium Peter Stevenson (Duncan, 40-4) again demonstrated his seemingly easy hill devouring form. Perhaps the best overall performance was by 15 year old Jordan Duncan (son of gourmet spinach lady Joanna) – 4th B road race, 24’32’’ tt, and 9th hill climb in 35’ 50”. Nevertheless Bill Yearwood’s (Vancouver, 57) victory in the B omnium was well-earned and deserved. In the mountain climb Bill alongside David Mercer helped both recover early lost ground. Mercer moved ahead on the later ascents with Bill pounding back on the brief descents (see Clafleur photo # 0826).
Gutsy rides from Thomas Andrew age 13 (3rd C road race), Jake van der Vliet also 13, and Kia van der Vliet 11 on very jazzy yellow bike - more budding Flying Dutchpersons! The racing contribution of hippy endurance man Ernie Klassen Black Creek was appreciated.
The hardest worker of the weekend was perhaps Linda Sinclair (ex- Western Washington University Bellingham teacher) who took on both registration and results coordinating for 3 races each embodying 3 separate categories. The lovely Susanna partner of Casey Ryder (Victoria, 40-4) versatile racer and jazz guitar maestro added charm to the medal ceremonies.
Best viewing spots : Road race and tt – top of Piercy Rd. climb before decline to highway. Mtn. Climb – top of penultimate rise looking down on hairpin bend; take binoculars.
Photo Pick.
B sprint. From East side: #18 –36, especially # 22 – 29. Excellent study of Bill Yearwood hurtling himself across the line. From West side: #38 –41.
A sprint. From W. side: #58 –73. Note Louis Watson head and shoulders down in beginning. Fine aggressive aero form from 4th place Jeff Natell. From E. side: #74 –81. Note #77 good low back, elbows out, and line lunge by 3rd place Trevor Perkins.
Hill climb finish. #7 winner Peter Stevenson on drops out of saddle for finishing burst. Best power finish – Bill Yearwood on drops out of saddle # 49 – 51.
Best finishing smile – Mike Sevcov # 46.
Clafleur
B sprint. # 0751. Also other beautiful dramatic shots during mountain climb.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Kelowna Cherry Kermesse Sat/Sun July 4-5th 2009
Lithe muscled figures in vivid figure-hugging jerseys and shorts streaking down vineyard slopes. Below 4 k away a rippled holiday resort lake. Olive hills and yellow ochre villas. Mountain backdrop, cherry trees, bone-warming sun, semi-desert air. Don’t need to be in Tuscany, Greece, the Giro D’Italia, Milan – San Remo, or Tour of Lombardy. You have all this ambience in Kelowna cycle racing.
To the Winfield Criterium course, 1.7 k safe, fast, challenging : East on Beaver Lake Rd., south on Jim Bailey Rd. Best viewing spot : top of the incline by the corner, back stretch, where the breaks occur and riders are shed.
The 60s were invigorated by the presence of delectable younger female racers - David Mercer being sufficiently stimulated to lap the field. Eric Rayson (71), ex-Geordie and rock/mountain climber was last to be picked off. Rose Filiatraut of the euphonious appellation was a classy 7th out of 13.
In the under-60 crit David Kirk made a valiant solo attack at about midway to gain 80 metres only to be absorbed after a couple more laps. The field of 19 was whittled down to a lead group of 14 with 15 minutes to go. The lung-bursting last lap saw this bunch strikingly strung out. A sprint of 4, then Gary Wade, then the sprint for 6th to 11th. Peter Tonkin (45-49) ex-patriate South African, younger brother of Bruce a Victoria cycle race stalwart, was a scintillating 2nd to younger men Steve Kraetzer (35-9) 1st, and Simon Craig (40-4) 3rd. Jovial, jesting Janusz Grelecki (55-9) imposingly accoutred with classic Mercedes was first of the 50s at 11th.
To the S.E. Kelowna 9 k road race circuit : S off KLO Rd. on Spiers Rd. Viewing spot : last and steepest part of the June Springs Rd. climb at the McClain Rd. intersection. The 60s duo of Roy Quade, Calgarian ex-mathematician now violin bow maker, and David Mercer were surpassed by nimble Nordic notable Olav stunning Stana near the top of June Springs Rd. on the 5th lap. A lap later the tiring 60s tandem were caught by a lead group of 8 40s plus a single 30s rider – Trevor Haaheim. Olav’s supremacy shows in that the lead 40s riding as a strong group were able to regain only 1½ minutes on Olav racing alone. Again the run-in strung out the lead chasers. First a sprint for 2nd – 4th won by Tom Stewart (45-9) Vancouver, then another 3 at 4 seconds, followed by Anton Kew (40-4) Grand Forks about 15 seconds adrift.
Further enhancing female presence in the rr of Tanille Stickley – 1st woman.
Phil Macdougal (50-4) crashed early on a descent but courageously remounted for 16th overall and 2nd in the 50s. Elegant ex-Parisian veteran Robert Dumalanede made a wrong turn just before the finish but was close to his cosmopolitan Italian-Canadian colleague Rino di Biasio.
Combined results for the weekend’s 2 events would be :
Under-60s : 1. Tom Stewart. 2. Simon Craig. 3. Trevor Haaheim and Gary Wade – tie.
60+ : 1. David Mercer. 2. Roy Quade. 3. Des Snider.
Women : 1. Rose Filiatraut. 2. Carol Chester. 3. Barb Penner.
Photo pick (courtesy duanebc.com) : Under-60 crit : #135-6, Tom Stewart classic roadman sprint, head and shoulders way down, arms outstretched, thrusting his bike at the line. #138, powerful Anton Kew out of the saddle, on the drops, head down, flat back, throwing his bike around. RR : #113-4, again Tom Stewart in superb sprinting position.
Using my system for awarding overall points for crits (see Cedar Bowl blog May) Peter Tonkin 2nd in the under-60s crit could have received 4 ½ bonus points for beating 9 riders of younger age categories plus 3 ½ regular points (half of 7 since total field divided into 2 crits) for a total of 8. By the same reckoning winner Steve Kraetzer would have gained 5 regular points (half of 10) but only ½ bonus point, for a total of 5 ½.
Organisers Ray Morrison and Eric Rayson had to pay over $100 for the services of one flag person. Clearly, BCMCA and Cycling BC have to coordinate with BC Ministry of
Transportation to ensure that municipalities recognize the validity of our own marshalling courses.
To the Winfield Criterium course, 1.7 k safe, fast, challenging : East on Beaver Lake Rd., south on Jim Bailey Rd. Best viewing spot : top of the incline by the corner, back stretch, where the breaks occur and riders are shed.
The 60s were invigorated by the presence of delectable younger female racers - David Mercer being sufficiently stimulated to lap the field. Eric Rayson (71), ex-Geordie and rock/mountain climber was last to be picked off. Rose Filiatraut of the euphonious appellation was a classy 7th out of 13.
In the under-60 crit David Kirk made a valiant solo attack at about midway to gain 80 metres only to be absorbed after a couple more laps. The field of 19 was whittled down to a lead group of 14 with 15 minutes to go. The lung-bursting last lap saw this bunch strikingly strung out. A sprint of 4, then Gary Wade, then the sprint for 6th to 11th. Peter Tonkin (45-49) ex-patriate South African, younger brother of Bruce a Victoria cycle race stalwart, was a scintillating 2nd to younger men Steve Kraetzer (35-9) 1st, and Simon Craig (40-4) 3rd. Jovial, jesting Janusz Grelecki (55-9) imposingly accoutred with classic Mercedes was first of the 50s at 11th.
To the S.E. Kelowna 9 k road race circuit : S off KLO Rd. on Spiers Rd. Viewing spot : last and steepest part of the June Springs Rd. climb at the McClain Rd. intersection. The 60s duo of Roy Quade, Calgarian ex-mathematician now violin bow maker, and David Mercer were surpassed by nimble Nordic notable Olav stunning Stana near the top of June Springs Rd. on the 5th lap. A lap later the tiring 60s tandem were caught by a lead group of 8 40s plus a single 30s rider – Trevor Haaheim. Olav’s supremacy shows in that the lead 40s riding as a strong group were able to regain only 1½ minutes on Olav racing alone. Again the run-in strung out the lead chasers. First a sprint for 2nd – 4th won by Tom Stewart (45-9) Vancouver, then another 3 at 4 seconds, followed by Anton Kew (40-4) Grand Forks about 15 seconds adrift.
Further enhancing female presence in the rr of Tanille Stickley – 1st woman.
Phil Macdougal (50-4) crashed early on a descent but courageously remounted for 16th overall and 2nd in the 50s. Elegant ex-Parisian veteran Robert Dumalanede made a wrong turn just before the finish but was close to his cosmopolitan Italian-Canadian colleague Rino di Biasio.
Combined results for the weekend’s 2 events would be :
Under-60s : 1. Tom Stewart. 2. Simon Craig. 3. Trevor Haaheim and Gary Wade – tie.
60+ : 1. David Mercer. 2. Roy Quade. 3. Des Snider.
Women : 1. Rose Filiatraut. 2. Carol Chester. 3. Barb Penner.
Photo pick (courtesy duanebc.com) : Under-60 crit : #135-6, Tom Stewart classic roadman sprint, head and shoulders way down, arms outstretched, thrusting his bike at the line. #138, powerful Anton Kew out of the saddle, on the drops, head down, flat back, throwing his bike around. RR : #113-4, again Tom Stewart in superb sprinting position.
Using my system for awarding overall points for crits (see Cedar Bowl blog May) Peter Tonkin 2nd in the under-60s crit could have received 4 ½ bonus points for beating 9 riders of younger age categories plus 3 ½ regular points (half of 7 since total field divided into 2 crits) for a total of 8. By the same reckoning winner Steve Kraetzer would have gained 5 regular points (half of 10) but only ½ bonus point, for a total of 5 ½.
Organisers Ray Morrison and Eric Rayson had to pay over $100 for the services of one flag person. Clearly, BCMCA and Cycling BC have to coordinate with BC Ministry of
Transportation to ensure that municipalities recognize the validity of our own marshalling courses.
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