Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Best Jacket Ever!



In case you haven't noticed, the guys who work at Jack and Adams are pretty much cycling hardmen, reminiscent in many ways of Merckx, Hinault, Anquetil and Voigt. Essentially, the best parts of all those legends wrapped up in a big, Belgian taco and wearing an I Love Triathlon T-shirt.

Needless to say, we aren't ever going to cancel our Tuesday rides due to weather. We'll just keep adding layers until it is impossible to get a gel from our jersey pockets. By now, I've got enough clothing for the cold. The only days I really fear are the cold, rainy ones. The kind of days that you just find some cave inside of yourself and hideout until you are home. Gloves soaked, feet frozen, no need to drink from your bottles because the rider in front of you is sending a steady stream of water into your mouth. The kind of days like today.

Enter the Louis Garneau Climate Grid. Three of us sported the jacket for the first time this morning, and I must say that I've never had such a pleasant, miserable ride. The Climate Grid is a breathable, water resistant rain cape that is exceptionally lightweight, easily packable and translucent. It's an essential 3 season piece for riding in Texas. After four hours of drizzle and moderate rain our arms and torso's were warm and dry. I wasn't drowning in my own sweat and everyone could see us flying our J&A jerseys beneath the jacket.

Ultimately, what I'm saying is that a rain cape for cycling is one of those things that you stumble upon and think, "Why haven't I had this for years?" If you despise riding the trainer as much as I do it's a fantastic investment at $79.99. I'm relatively spoiled, working at the shop and trying out all of the latest and greatest stuff, but this little jacket has taken me completely by surprise. Best jacket ever...




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Monday, December 27, 2010

New Gear: TYR Rucksack


New from TYR: The Rucksack backpack. A bag within a bag! This new TYR bag is super functional. You can use it everyday or stow it away in it's built in storage bag and save it for traveling only. Current colors available are black/red or black/grey. Now available at Jack & Adam's for $60.00.


Eddie sporting the new TYR Rucksack!





















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Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Thunderbird Energetica Vegan Bars

Jack & Adam's is now offering local based Thunderbird Vegan bars. The bars are available in three flavors: Cacao Hemp Walnut, Cashew Fig Carrot (personal favorite), and Cherry Walnut Crunch. All options are soy-free, gluten-free, no added sugar, non-gmo, and all natural!

Stop in and check them out at the J&A nutrition tower.


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Monday, December 13, 2010

Fun -n- Fit over the holidays

3x chances to keep fit and have fun over the holidays and let out your inner child ...

1. The Sunday shop ride 12/19 will be from the Steiner Ranch Steakhouse - decorate your bike or yourself safely for the ride and stand a chance of winning free brunch post ride. As always half price brunch for the runners up and anyone else who shows up to ride. We leave, as always, at 8:30a.m. prompt.

2. Friday evening we are meeting on the deck at the shop for the legendary Austin 5th Annual Red Dress Run~ the 12 Bars of Christmas by the Austin Duathletes. We leave at 6:30pm, be at the shop in time to be in the team picture. No red dress=no run. And please consider how you'll get home, DUI is not only illegal, it isn't cool

3. New Years Day, 2nd Annual Underwear run, aka the 1.1.Run . We'll give you a card at the shop, tell you where to get it stamped and you have to run there and back, we won't give you the route. Don't want to be seen much in your underwear, travel a path less worn. Starts 10a.m.

What qualifies as underwear...

All these are free to participate in, not to mention huge fun. ++Mark.
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Friday, December 10, 2010

The Perfect Holiday Gift

Sometimes it can be diffcult to holiday shop for the triathlete who already has everything they need/want for the sport they love. If you are struggling to find the perfect gift, look no further...Jack & Adam's is here to help!!!

Jack & Adam's has teamed up with SBR Designs to offer Holiday shoppers the perfect gift: Tri Jewelry With Distinction.

Items available for purchase include both men's & women's sterling silver rings as well as sterling silver necklaces. Pricing starts at $75.00.
Stop by J & A today to get yours.

For more information click here.

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Shop ride Sundays: It's a good day to ride

This weekend we'll be riding as normal, no-drop and the advanced and intermediate. No definitive plans except the no-drop will go South to the high school, I'll be leading that ride again and will happily answer general cycling or triathlon questions while do the ride. Wonder what races to do next year, want to do your first race?? Come along, ride and ask...

As always, the no-drop is 20-miles round-trip, we aim to get finished in around 1-hour 45-mins, sometimes less, often more. The weather will start out high 50's and warm up from there, so wear thin, lightweight layers that you can remove and fold.

SUNDAY 19th it's the Steiner Steak House Christmas Ride.

See the shop website for a full description, bring running shoes, half price brunch and for the rest holiday decorated bike and rider, there is free brunch, drinks not included!

Hey, come out and ride, Sunday is a great day for it!!

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Thursday, December 9, 2010

Please BE KIND To Cyclists Holiday Benefit

Active Life Wellness and The Spring Center for Natural Medicine have teamed up to host a joint Holiday Party benefiting The Please BE KIND To Cyclists Organization.

The event takes place Thursday, December 16th from 5:00-8:pm. Take advantage of special deals during the party including 50-75% off discounts when you sign up for full consultations with Active Life Wellness and/or The Spring Center. Raffles and giveaways for ALL Participants. Stop by the chair massage booth for a massage; $1 donations for every minute you are massaged will be donated to Please BE KIND to Cyclists.







You can also donate to the Please BE KIND to Cyclists organization by purchasing BE KIND to Cyclist merchandise including t-shirts and bumper stickers.

The party will be held at the Active Life Wellness and The Spring Center Offices located at 809 South Lamar Blvd., Austin, TX 78704. View Map.

RSVP or for more information email.




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Monday, December 6, 2010

Athlete's Honey Milk


Athlete's Honey Milk will be back out at the Jack & Adam's core class Wednesday, December 8th (5:30-6:30pm). Come out and get your core worked out and follow it up with some Athlete's Honey Milk recovery drink...FREE SAMPLES!

Athletes HoneyMilkis a delicious high-protein nutritional drink made from real milk and honey.

No powders, no mystery ingredients, no hocus pocus… HoneyMilk™ is real fuel for real people. You care about what you put into your body. So do we.


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Friday, December 3, 2010

Shop ride Sundays - Whats going on?


A few updates for December on the shop ride. We had yet another great turnout last week for the Steiner Ranch Steakhouse ride, and so we be holding the shop Christmas Ride up there on 12/19. They'll be free brunch for those with the best bike, helmet and clothing decorations!

For this Sunday, if the weather holds, it will be a glorious sunny, if not cool morning for a ride, predictions are on 48f - We'll have the shop no-drop ride, that will go South for the usual route, 20-miles total.

We'd like to offer a longer ride this week for everyone else, and we may or may not split into intermediate lead by Tammy and Tempo Multisport, and Advanced with Zac. What we thinking would be good would be to take an easy ride out South East once clear of town, do one, two or three paceline groups, based on who shows up. We'll re-group after about 6-miles at a gas station, and then set off back to the shop together, it will give about a 50-mile ride.

So thats the proposal, show up and we will see what folks want to do. There should be enough ride escorts to split into different groups either way.

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Thursday, December 2, 2010

Shoe Run Run

Are you having trouble knowing when to replace your running shoes?

The Apple Store now offers an app to help you track your mileage for multiple pairs of shoes!

Check out the app features/specs:

For each pair of shoes you're tracking, you can pick a shoe brand & model, photo, purchase date, and set mileage warnings for when it's time to replace that pair.

Shoe Run Run features:
- Track multiple pairs of shoes at once, in either miles or kilometers.
- Quick & easy run entry, as few as 3 taps to add a run!
- Select from a dozen built-in photos to identify your shoes, or take a picture with your camera to tag the shoes.
- Each pair can have a name, purchase date, and brand/model assigned.
- Choose from 19 built in shoe brands and over 200 models, or add custom brand/model names.
- See histories of all the runs for each pair of shoes, and if you made a mistake, easily delete individual runs.
- Customize the mileage warnings for each pair of shoes, so you'll know exactly when to replace them, whether you get 250 or 500 miles out of a pair.
- Retire shoes that have been replaced without deleting them- they can still show up in the list if you want to go back and look at them again (or even un-retire them).
- Automatically sort your shoes by purchase date, total miles, brand, name, or last run date.

Shoe Run Run works on all iPhones and iPod Touches, and is only 99 cents from the App Store here.




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Friday, November 26, 2010

Holiday Sale!

Come shop Jack and Adam's annual holiday sale happening Nov. 26th until Dec. 23rd. Here's what you'll find:

15% off Store Wide Sale - includes Clothing, Nutrition and Accessories (does not include 2011 bicycles)

40% Off all 2010 Triathlon Clothing

40% Off 2010 Short Sleeve and Sleeveless Cycling Jerseys

40% Off all 2010 Wetsuits

40% Off all 2010 Cycling & Triathlon Shoes

30% Off 2010 Race Wheels

25% Off 2010 Bicycles

Come & get it while the gettin's good!
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Thursday, November 18, 2010

Shop ride Sundays: Taking a laid back approach

At last nights @macconow event a few people asked me what we were doing with the shop rides. Pretty simple really. We still plan to have a no-drop ride EVERY Sunday starting 8:30 and either going south or alternating up the Shoal Creek route.

Thats EVERY Sunday unless we say otherwise here, or if it is raining between 8:15 and at 8:30, in which case we'll declare a no-ride day.

For the other rides, intermediate and advanced we are taking a more laid back approach over the fall and winter months. As many of the ride escorts/leaders will be there every Sunday. Based on the number of riders that show up, we'll have the no-drop and one or more other groups. They'll be at a more base/tempo pace, and may split into those that want to go faster or slower. We won't be publishing routes and just using the rides as a good base and to keep fit.

Since this week is the Dirty Du High Five Events race w/e, we will be just having a no drop ride. Starting at 8:30.

Next Sunday, November 28th will be another in the hugely successful, Steiner Ranch Steakhouse rides. so we will be starting up their at 8:30a.m. prompt. See you there!

I have not cleared it with Jack yet, but how about a Shop Holiday ride on December 19th?? Decorate your bike and/or outfit and we'll see if we can get a prize or two together for the best entries.

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Austin Traitheletes and Austin Duathletes Update

Jack and the team, a number of sponsors put on a great event last night with Chris Mccormack, the 2010 Ironman Hawaii winner and Ironman World Champion. I was fortunate enough to give a brief update on the work I've been doing with a number of people of the future of Austin Triathletes and Austin Duathletes clubs.

I'm doing it in association with Jack and Adams Bicycle shop, but since it isn't strictly shop business, I've posted an update over on my personal blog.

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Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Off Season Blues?

Off Season got you feeling down? Not feeling motivated to ride because it is getting cold? Well Jack & Adam's and Austin Cycle Camp are here to help you get re-motivated and to help you burn off the Holiday calories!!!

We have teamed up with Austin Cycle Camp to bring you a FREE 90 Minute Trainer Workout! Please join us every Thursday in December on the Jack & Adam's deck for an Austin Cycle Camp Coach led trainer ride. Workouts start promptly at 6:15pm. Bring your own trainer or use one of ours! RSVP today here or by calling 512-861-2354.

See you there!!

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Monday, November 8, 2010

Austin Cycle Camp Rides to Gruene!!

Destination: Gruene, Texas

Date: November 19, 2010

Price: $65

Come join Austin Cycle Camp for a day trip you’ll never forget. On November 19th, we’ll take you to Dripping Springs to start an all-inclusive 45 or 75 mile ride ending in Gruene. What’s included? Check it out...

  • Transportation from Austin to Dripping Springs and back from Gruene
  • CLIF nutrition product
  • nuun hydration tablets (and water of course!)
  • Endurox post-ride recovery drink
  • A guided 45 or 75 mile ride - (includes part of the Livestrong Challenge course). Yes, guided. No cue sheet, no maps, no looking for painted arrows on the road.
  • Mechanical support on the ride (think flats, dropped chains, etc. If your front wheel spontaneously combusts, that might be a bit outside of what we can do)
  • Full shower facilities after the ride so you can completely freshen up
  • A chance to spend the afternoon in Gruene, catch some live music, dip a toe in the water, or do a little wine tasting!

If you’re in, complete the registration form here and meet us Friday the 19th at 6:45 a.m. at the parking lot beside Jim’s Coffee Shop in the Y at Oak Hill (intersection of 290 and 71). We’ll have you back to your car by 6:00 p.m. so you can spend the evening with your friends and family.


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Sunday, November 7, 2010

Following the J&A Blog by email

I've had a few emails over the summer and an interesting exchange with Allison Peacock organizer of the Austin Cycling Meetup group about tracking the blog via email.

If you use an RSS reader, I've got lots, I use Microsoft Outlook at work and subscribe to a number of tech blogs through that via RSS; I use feedburner to track a number of music blogs via RSS; and then I've subscribed to the BBC, This American Life and number of other podcasts on my Blackberry Torch phone, and I get the shop blog updates there as well. You can use this RSS feed to follow along http://jackandadams.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default

So it never occurred to me that people would like to receive the blog updates as email. Hey, the internets do everything, so I went and looked and yes, if you post the RSS feed URL in at http://blogtrottr.com/ and give it your email address, they'll show up. Neat!

How do you follow the blog? Do you use the tags we add to entries? Got any tips to share? ++Mark.

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Thursday, November 4, 2010

2010 Ironman World Champion coming to Austin!


Chris McCormack aka "Macca" will be coming to Jack & Adams Bicycles on Wednesday, Nov. 17th from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Chris is one of the most decorated triathletes in the history of the sport. McCormack became the first man in history to ever win the ITU World Championships, The ITU World Cup series and be ranked number 1 in the World in a single season. After shifting focus to longer distance racing he displayed exceptional aptitude for the distance winning many races. McCormack won Ironman Australia in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006. Twice he has finished the Quelle Challenge Roth, an Iron-Distance triathlon in less than 8 hours, a feat only 5 other athletes have completed. In 2007 he won the Ironman World Championships in Kona Hawaii after 6 attempts at the race coming as close as second, within 2 minutes of the winner, in 2006. He again won the Ironman World Championships this year in 2010.

Chris lost his mother, Theresa, to breast cancer on April 26th 1999. MaccaNow is the foundation set up by Chris McCormack that aims to donate $1,962,800 dollars to Breast Cancer and its affiliated charities by 2015. Since beginning in 2008, the foundation has raised more than $200,000 dollars for Cancer, through the help of a variety of different challenges and charities. "I lost my mother to breast cancer in 1999, at the age of 53. I set myself the challenge of raising this amount to celebrate my mothers life. $1,962,800 dollars represents 100 dollars for every day my mother was alive and I will achieve this goal. I now have two daughters and along with my wife, I am surrounded by women. Breast Cancer is a disease that is fought primarily by women, but as men it takes our mothers, sisters, daughters and wives, and as a man I will do as much as I can to help fight and support the women who are fighting this disease. My mother was taken in the prime of her life, and left behind a family of 3 boys and her husband. The disease took everything from us." Chris McCormack

Come join us on Wednesday, November 17th from 7 to 9 p.m. to celebrate Chris McCormacks latest Ironman World Championship victory and his efforts to meet his fundraising goals. There will be free food, beer, an autograph session, and a talk by Chris. Normally there is a door charge to raise the money for Chris's foundation. The Austin triathlon community has stepped up in a major way, as it always does to bring you this celebration for free. There will be a donation box on site for additional donations. The businesses involved in putting this together include:

Jack & Adams Bicycles, Hill Country Running, Texas Iron, Austin Triathletes & Duathletes, High Five Events, Advanced Rehab, Pure Austin, Clif Bar, Coogan & Associates, Lewis Sign, New Belgium Brewery, Steve Jolly Company, Austin's Pizza, and BigMouth Announcing.

Please RSVP by E-mail here! or RSVP on Facebook Here!

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Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Dirty Duathlon Weekend Nov. 20th & 21st!

Saturday & Sunday November 20th & 21st.

Rip it up at the oldest off road multi-sport event in Texas!

At the Dirty Duathlon Weekend, there is something for everyone. Come spend the weekend camping, running, and riding at beautiful Rocky Hill Ranch. Awesome trail runs on Saturday morning, the Bike Toss World Championships on Saturday night. Sunday morning is the original Dirty Du. New this year is the Dirty Du Sprint.

Don't mountain bike? No worries, this event is perfect for relays!

Saturday, November 20th, 2010
9:00 AM - Off Road Half Marathon Start
9:30 AM - 5K Trail Run Start
3:00 PM - Bike Toss Prelims
6:00 PM - Bike Toss Finals

Sunday, November 21st, 2010
9:00 AM Dirty Du Start
9:45 AM Dirty Du Sprint Start


More Info & Register Here! Volunteer Here!


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Thursday, October 21, 2010

IGO Active Neat Seats

I don't know about the rest of you but I am a sweater...big time!! During the hottest and most humid times of the year I finish a ride or run looking like I fell in a pool. Fellow sweaters know what I am talking about.

If you are headed straight for the shower post workout then sweating is not a huge issue. But what about those of us who need to drive to our shower? If you are like our family and don't want to leave the driver's seat sweaty for the next driver in the family then you put a towel down. Occasionally not a huge deal but over time it is annoying and what if you forget your towel completely? Yuck.

Igo Active, a local Austin based company, has come to the aid of athletes from all different sports with their product, Neat Seats! The product is designed to protect your car or truck seats and seat belts from sweat, stains, and smells.

Neat Seats are available at Jack & Adam's! They are perfect for the early bird Holiday shopper trying to find the right gift for their active friend or family member. Now through October 31st purchase your Neat Seat for $40 ($10 off). Need more than one? Buy one get the second half off!!


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Monday, October 18, 2010

Athlete's Honey Milk

Are you still deciding on what recovery drink to use? Well, look no further!!! Athlete's Honey Milk is coming to Jack & Adam's Monday, October 18th with free samples for all!
Finish your strength workout with a chilled recovery drink and take some samples home with you.

For more information click here.

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Thursday, October 7, 2010

2nd Annual Runnin' Down a Dream

October 20th, 2010 marks the 2nd Annual Runnin' Down a Dream fundraiser. The event benefits the Girls On the Run of Austin.

Festivities start at 6:30pm and end at 9pm. Guests will enjoy appetizers, wines courtesy of Stone House Vinyard, photography from B.Strange, cupcakes from Hill Country Cupcake and LIVE MUSIC by The Daze and door prizes. It's $20 Pre-Sale & $25 at the door.

There will also be a silent auction featuring: TWO Cruisers from Jack & Adam's Bicycles, certificates to restaurants & hotels, spa, health & sports packages & more!

Last year the inaugural event raised enough funds to give full scholarships to 45 girls; the goal this year is to surpass that number!

To purchase tickets and for more information, visit www.gotraustin.org.

About Girls on the Run
GOTR is an after-school program that uses the power of running to help prepare pre-teen girls for a lifetime of self-respect, positive choices and healthy living. Over 12 weeks, girls are guided by trained volunteer coaches, and learn about the power of positive self-image. At the end of the semester, in celebration of their achievement, girls along with their families, coaches and volunteers participate in a local 5K race.

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Monday, October 4, 2010

Shop ride Sundays: October

Just a quick heads up for the shop rides for the rest of the month.

Sunday, 10th. see all the rides go South. ACL is in town and both parking and road access will be difficult. South is the only route we know we can take for sure, even that will mean navigating a Police barricade to get up Dawson and coming back down. While the shop will be open over the w/e, parking will be difficult, maybe this is one of those times cycling down makes sense. I'll be away racing in Dallas at the Toyota Open Triathlon.

Sunday, 17th. This is the Austin 70.3 race day. We need over 100-volunteers for the bike course alone, and I need about 5 strong minded people to help me get approx. 5000 competitors and spectators from the expo/parking are over to the lake in just 3-hours. So there will be a no-drop ride only that Hugo will lead up Shoal Creek, but thats it. Please sign-up to volunteer here.

Sunday, 24th. Steiner Ranch Steak House ride. Firmly establishing itself as a popular ride amongst a core of shop riders, and a core of Steiner and north western based riders. Bring a change of clothes, some cash and enjoy half price brunch, a mimosa or two, a great view and your Sunday shop ride buddies! See you there.

Sunday, 31st. To be confirmed.

We had a number of issues this week that it would be good if people could be mindful of. The roads do get messy after heavy rain, please remember to bring your own tubes etc. for repairs. The ride escorts will help out where needed, but the best way to learn is to do it yourself.

For all the groups, but especially the Advanced group, when we are on longer rides and have either scheduled, or impromptu stops for water and to re-fuel, please try to bring just a few dollars cash with you. It's one thing for 30-lycra glad cyclists to suddenly appear at a gas station in the middle of nowhere, it's another thing entirely when half the group or more try to pay with credit cards for $1.89, $1.50 etc. It creates a lot of work in a short period for the staff. Lets be as friendly as we can. Besides, everyone knows a dollar bill makes a great tire boot if needed, so bring at least $3! ++Mark.

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Friday, October 1, 2010

October 24th Donkey Dash 5k and Doggy Dash

Get ready for the second annual Sunset Valley Donkey Dash 5k and Doggy Dash! The event will take place on Sunday, October 24th. This flat, fast walker and runner friendly course will take athletes on a tour of beautiful Sunset Valley, and is only minutes from downtown Austin. The 3.1 mile USATF certified course will start and end at Doc’s Backyard.

The top runners in the Donkey Dash 5k have the opportunity to strut their stuff and shoot for a piece of the $1,100 prize purse, sponsored by Mike Davis with Edward Jones Investments. The prize purse is dispersed over the top 3 male and female finishers, top male and female master finisher, and bonuses for setting a new course record in those respective divisions.

Donkey Dash participants will also have the opportunity to enter their canine training partners in the Doggy Dash 5k, which will take place at the same time. The Doggy Dash 5k is one of the only canine friendly events that actually utilize chip timing and bib numbers for the canine athletes. Canines are divided into two age divisions: 6 years and under division / 7 years and older masters division. Awards will be presented to the top 3 canines in each division, as well as bonuses for canines (6 and under/7 and up) that set new Doggy Dash course records.

Of course the official event mascot, Star, will be out on the course cheering on event participants as she munches her morning breakfast! There will be two aid stations on the route with water for all the participants, including the canines. After the 5k event, the finish line party will include food and drinks from Doc’s Backyard and Zen. Awards will be then be presented for the top finishers in both the Donkey Dash 5k and the Doggy Dash.

Race proceeds benefit the Sunset Valley Elementary School, which will be hosting the two aid stations on the course.

All registration information including early online pricing, packet pickup details, and race day registration can be found here.

If you would like to help out and volunteer at the event please contact Sunset Valley resident, and race director, Andrea Fisher at ironmanfishy@hotmail.com.
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Thursday, September 30, 2010

Shop ride Sundays: The Mystery of the East

This Sunday we are taking the shop rides east. The rides will all go out from downtown to controlled groups to make a safe egress from the city.

No-Drop - A few more miles than normal out to Decker Lane and then back. About 28-miles roundtrip. You'll get the chance to cycle in downtown roads in light use; this will help you develop a few additional skills. There is a faster section once you get out to Johnny Morris, but otherwise we'll be looking for the group to stay together and take guidance.

Intermediate - Will follow the same route out, and then make a left on Decker Lane, follow the Tri course around the back of the lake and then back into town via Loyola Lane. Depending on who the ride escorts are this week, this may be another paced ride. Distance if I remember correctly is about 34-miles, again up a few but a good chance to learn some city group riding skills.

Advanced - Following on from last times east ride, and with the fact the Austin 70.3 is not long, we'll be extending the Advanced ride to the same route around the back of Decker Lake, then when we get to the bridge over Toll Road SH45, we'll take a left and take on 16-miles of the Longhorn 70.3 course before dropping down Burleson Manor Rd, FM969 and back via Decker Lane to Loyola and into town. The advanced ride will complete 52-miles.

The route for all 3-rides is here on mapmyride.com - for some reason, it has made a mess of the actual turn directions, although the route(s) are correct. See you Sunday, we leave at 8:30a.m.

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Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Join Team Livestrong for The Austin Marathon



THIS SUNDAY 10/3 - Team LIVESTRONG INFO SESSION 10-11am

With the triathlon offseason right around the corner, now is the time to start thinking about your winter training. One of the big events in Austin this winter is the LIVESTRONG Austin Marathon on February 20, 2011. LIVESTRONG has become the title sponsor of the LIVESTRONG Austin Marathon & Half Marathon through 2013, so being part of the inagural 2011 event will be one to remember! Whether you are new to running or a seasoned veteran, the LIVESTRONG Austin Marathon course offers something for everyone. Another way that you can get involved beyond just running the race is to participate and fundraise with Team LIVESTRONG. Raising just $500 will get you some coveted Team LIVESTRONG race gear and free entry to the event. You can sign up as an individual or you can get a group of friends together to train and sign up as a team. By participating and fundraising for Team LIVESTRONG, you join a group of committed individuals dedicated to inspiring and empowering people affected by cancer.

If you would like to learn more about fundraising with Team LIVESTRONG, stick around this Sunday 10/3 after the J&A Shop Ride. We will have Team LIVESTRONG representatives on-hand to answer your questions and also provide some cool LIVESTRONG give-aways and gear!

Join the fight at www.teamlivestrong.org.

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Friday, September 24, 2010

Shop ride Sundays: Fun in the saddle

Sundays ride for all groups is heading South. It's the Silicon Labs Marathon relays which to a degree restricts the choice of routes, plus at least the Tempo Multisport ride leaders will be racing as a team.

As always, we will have the 3-groups, leaving 8:30 a.m. prompt. First up will be the Advanced group, 38-miles inc. the River Road loop; Second will be the Intermediate group. I'll again be pacing that for 16MPH out to the CVS where the Old San Antonio Road gets to Buda.

Finally "Jack's famous no-drop" ride, will do 10-miles out and 10-miles back with ride escorts. As always we wait for the last ride escort and rider after crossing traffic light junctions and turning left, we'll also be there to supervise repairing punctures, and other minor problems. The rides are not sagged though, you need to be prepared.

AUSTIN 70.3 rides. This is the last w/e I'll be riding the course before the race, I'm going to try for race pace, so no sag, no support but I will be there with maps and to answer questions before the ride. 7am prompt. Park outside the park. Here is the meet-up point.

Safe rides this w/e, see you in the saddle! ++Mark.

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Monday, September 20, 2010

Transitioning to Off-Season Running

In this article, Kelly and Derick Williams offer some great tips about transitioning from tri season to off-season running. Of course, if you have any further questions, stop by the shop. If we don't have the information you need, we'll find it for you!

J&A: For some of us die-hard multi-sport athletes, it might not make sense to trade in three sports for one. Why do some athletes spend their winter training for running races; what are the benefits of this over a swim focus or spending multitudes of time on the trainer?

DW & KW: It is important for triathletes to change up their routine, especially when they live somewhere like Austin, where we are able to train swim/bike/run year round. For those living in colder climates, it is an easier thing to change it up in the winter (when they are buried in snow, cannot ride outside and have the opportunity to ski, do other outside activities or they are 'forced' indoors).

Not only does a running focus in the winter simplify a triathletes training schedule, but running is the best way to increase your fitness off of a minimal time commitment. So for a couple of months, they can enjoy a change of the 3-sport grind, lighten up their training load yet still maintain and even gain fitness. Running is the most efficient way to increase fitness because for the most part, you will burn more calories per minute as well as gain more cardiovascular fitness than you will swimming or cycling. One great thing about run training in the Fall/Winter is that you'll notice that as the temperatures come down, so will your paces for the same given effort. We notice that athletes can generally run 5-15sec/mi faster on their training runs once temperatures start dropping below ~75deg. This means that you can get in some much higher quality workouts during the Fall/Winter and see some nice running fitness gains that you can then carry over into the following season!

J&A: When is a good time to start making your transition from triathlon to run training. What are a few good events to plan on doing during the winter in Austin?

DW & KW: The transition really depends upon when someone ends his/her season. I'd say in the range of October or November is when most of the bigger triathlons and series' come to an end, and with the cooler weather, the shift to running is a welcome change. That said, I think that people should take 2-3 weeks "off" or of low key, very unstructured training. During this time, it is good to limit training; do not make it a priority, and simply do whatever sounds fun each day; if that is nothing, that is alright too.

In terms of winter Austin running events, a few fun and laid back ones that fall in the November-February time frame are the Dirty Duathlon (an off-road run/bike/ run in November), Thundercloud Subs 5 miler (on Thanksgiving), Decker Half Marathon (early December), Jingle Bell 5k, and then of course the Austin Distance Challenge will run from October through the Austin Marathon in February, each race progressing in distance. Another fun activity to try is open water swim events, which I know also take place over the winter months in Austin as well. Also consider trail running races for a change of pace and scenery and to limit the pounding on the body.

J&A: Triathletes tend to be an intense crowd, what are some good rules to remember when you're transitioning from three sports to one to avoid overdoing it and putting yourself at risk for injury. Does swimming and running still have a place in a winter run training program?

DW & KW: While a run focus can be a welcome change in the winter, it definitely does need to be approached with caution. Remember that if you are a triathlete, this is STILL the 'off season' so best not to completely wear yourself out running too much (or worse, risk injury). If you do not have a program you are on, be careful of your total run volume. (What do you usually do in tri season?) and of course, light swimming and cycling are always a good idea to keep the body healthy. Also consider adding in some other complimentary activities you may not have time for in the summer months like yoga, pilates, light strength training, mountain biking, etc. Just about the only thing you have to rule out in Austin is snow skiing!

J&A: How can athletes 'keep it interesting' without three different sports when training for running races (especially longer-distance races like marathons)?

DW & KW: See above; try to find activities you would like to do during triathlon season but never seem to find time for. Again I re-iterate that a good yoga instructor can be invaluable; you will discover imbalances you have in your body from all of the "single plane" activities (meaning they are repetitive and take place in a simple forward-backward motion, and provide little need for lateral stability) and you will probably even be sore from the first few sessions! Keeping it interesting really comes up to how creative you want to get, so in this respect, do what sounds appealing to you; know that if you stay active, you can start up the official season with not only renewed excitement for the sport but also with good base fitness.

J&A: After culminating a winter season with a challenging race, what are a few tips for recovery and getting back into multi-sport training?

DW & KW: Just ease back to the routine. Triathlon season is very long in a state like Texas, when local events begin in March and go through November. Create your race plan for the season, then step back and figure out when you need to be training most heavily. If you do not know how to do this, find a coach to help guide you through the season. With a good plan, you should never feel 'rushed' to get back to your peak triathlon fitness; the process to start your season should be a gradual build. A lot of athletes start the year off with so much enthusiasm and zeal that they over do it for those first few months and are either injured or burned out by June. Pace yourself and focus on a progressive training program so that you are continually getting better and limiting the potential for burnout and/or injury.

*********************

Athletes as well as trusted coaches, Derick and Kelly Williamson have been in Austin for about 5 years now. They draw from their broad experience as athletes and awesome educational backgrounds to provide excellent and accessible coaching for all levels of athlete. Check out the Durata Training website, to learn more about them.
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Barton Springs clean-up


Last week I posted an appeal for our community to come together and help out with the Barton Springs cleanup after the "Hermine" storm.

I took part in the 4pm shift, I was delighted to meet a few new people from the tri/cycling/swimming community but even more delighted to see hear about the community coming together throughout the day, supported by groups like Austin T3, Trizones and TexasIron. There were just 2-people not from the tri community on the 4pm shift. I heard the same was true for almost all of the other shifts. Later in the day at the Austin Triathlon Volunteer party, I saw two people not from the 4pm shift in Friends of Barton Springs t-shirts!
According to news reports, during the day "Volunteers cleaned more than a foot of silt and debris".

Barton Springs re-opened Saturday for swimming, but there is still much work to be done. We've scheduled a J&A Swim workout at the Springs this Friday at 7 a.m. so come enjoy the work already done.

There is still a significant deposit of leaves, mud and muck down in the most difficult area to clean. Down in the north west corner where the plant growth is most abundant, and where the Austin Blind Salamander has been known to appear. So that area needs very gentle sweeping with brooms to try to remove the silt without damaging the plants or any salamander present. If it's not effectively cleared once all the leafs start decaying it will effect the quality of the water in that area.

So, lets get out and help the Friends of Barton Springs again on the next public help day, October 7th. They are once again asking for volunteers to do 2-hour shifts, 10,12,2,4pm. Please find time to help out. I'll be at the 4pm shift again.

You do get a Friends of Barton Spring t-shirt and membership if you work a 2-hour shift, but more importantly you get to put something back into the community! Spread the word, when you volunteer, tell them where you heard about it and which group you represent. Please don't assume someone else will do it, training sessions are no excuse...

To volunteer, contact
Robin Cravey, president
Friends of Barton Springs Pool
www.friendsofbartonspringspool.org
president@friendsofbartonspringspool.org

You can probably sport a few people you know in this gallery of pictures from the statesman.com - Also the Friends of Barton Springs has a collection of videos and media reports from last weeks efforts.

Thanks. ++Mark.
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Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Shop ride Sundays: Saturday Austin 70.3 again.

The last 2-weeks of informal, semi-lead, rides of the Austin 70.3 aka Longhorn half-ironman course are this week, September 18th and next week.

I say "semi-lead" because I will show-up, offer maps, leave at 7 a.m. prompt trying to keep a steady pace to start. Once we get over the toll road bridge and away from the Decker lake circuit, everyone will be warmed up and then it's form groups based on pace.

The course is well marked with yellow arrows before, on and after turns. It's 56-miles, starts from just outside Walter E Long Park aka Decker Lake; last Saturday we had about 30-people start in various groups, everything from fast to slow. The only thing you need to know, the ride is unsupported, and there really are no water stops until 38-miles, then its the East Travis County Metropolitan Park where they have bathrooms, after that its not until 44-miles in Webberville. An earlier stop option is to detour into Elgin which adds about 4-miles to the.

Bring 3-bottles and you'll be fine to Webberville... be there for a prompt start, no need to reply, I have some spare course maps as well... You don't have to be racing to do the ride!

This ride is really not sponsored, organized or otherwise endorsed by Jack and Adams, riders participate at their own risk. ++Mark.
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Shop ride Sundays: It's Steiner Steakhouse time

An early, but brief reminder that this week's shop ride will start at the Steiner Ranch Steakhouse and head west out into Cedar Park. There will be the "famous" no-drop ride, 10-out, 10-back; a paced intermediate ride, an hour out and an out back, paced at 16MPH; and a controlled start, fast paced advanced ride, for about 32-miles.

Don't be late in arriving, the ride starts at 8:30 a.m. prompt, last time we pretty much filled the parking lot and late comers had to walk up from the overflow lot. Also, for the triathletes, there is a good 3-mile brick run from the parking lot, down the hill afterwards, so bring your run shoes[and I promise to bring my cycling shoes this week!].

After the ride and run it's brunch Steiner style. There will be plenty of water, but you can't beat a mimosa and half price brunch with live music as a pick-me-up.

REMEMBER, NO RIDE FROM THE SHOP THIS WEEK! Join us at the Steiner Ranch Steakhouse. ++Mark.

Directions via Google Maps
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Monday, September 13, 2010

Barton Springs Rescue

One of the great things about Austin, IMHO, is the sense of community. Everywhere you look or go there are established and spontaneous communities. This is especially true amongst the triathlon, cycling and running scene. Another great Austin tradition is Barton Springs. Arguably a community tradition from the start, Barton springs is maintained by the city, but only with the help and perseverance from the Friends of Barton Springs, along with a number of other groups.

Last weeks storms not only closed Barton Springs, it created a huge mess. If you have not seen this video, you should, yes the springs is under there somewhere...


Triathletes benefit from Barton Springs in a huge way. Who can say they have not been down to the springs in their wetsuit for a cold water, early morning swim? Runners and cyclists too, how great is it to sit on the side or stand in the shallow end after a hard ride or run and just calm down those raging muscle fibers?

So, nows the time we need to give back as a community. Wednesday September 15th the Friends of Barton Springs, in conjunction with the Pool manager to organize an emergency pool cleaning. There will be two hour shifts at at 10 am, noon, 2 pm, and 4 pm.

PLEASE SIGN UP for at least one shift. I have no idea what will be required, but it would be great if we could get all the athletic communities to sign-up, irrespective if you are from the J&A Sunday shop ride, Austin T3, Texas Iron, Trizones, Rogue Running, Run Tex, Tempo Multisport, and Austin Cyclecamp.

If you are from one of these communities or any other, now is the time to act. Please contact FoBS President and register for a shift. Tell Robin which group you are from so the FoBS know we are giving back. Act now! I'll be on the 4pm shift. Pass it on!

Robin Cravey, president
Friends of Barton Springs Pool
www.friendsofbartonspringspool.org
president@friendsofbartonspringspool.org
512-236-9655
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The Austin Cross Country Kid's Run


Looking for a kid's run to get the kiddos out and about? This year marks the 34th annual Austin Cross Country Kid's Run.

The event will be held along the Lady Bird Lake Trail on November 20th. The event seeks to provide an opportunity for any child, ages 5-14, in the Austin and local communities, to experience a fun and welcoming cross country run. The purpose of this event is to promote the idea that fitness is fun, challenging, rewarding, and necessary in order to achieve lifelong wellness.

This year 1379 is teaming up with the Austin Association of Physical Education and Recreation (AAPER)to give any child the opportunity to participate. The event will be made affordable by having an entry fee of only $5. Funds are being raised to help so that even those who may not afford it, can still have this experience. Any additional funds raised will further support Austin's youth in their PE classes by purchasing equipment and other instructional materials.

Registration forms, flyers, and further information about the event can be directed to Lindsay Rosenthal, 1379 Family Sports Store, by calling 512-779-4761 or by emailing Nick at nick@1379sports.com.

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Saturday, September 11, 2010

Rolfing @ Jack & Adam's this Sunday

Please join us for the Jack & Adam's Sunday Shop ride...wheels down at 8:30 a.m.

This week the ride will be greeted at the finish by Christopher Horan from Austin Rolfer.
Rolfing clients experience reduced levels of acute and chronic pain and higher levels of physical, mental and emotional vitality because Rolfing focuses on bringing better alignment and balance to your entire body. Rolfing structural integration is a sophisticated and effective form of hands-on therapy and movement education. Its goal is to create structural, functional and energetic changes within the body that help free mind, body and spirit from limitations, injury and pain.

Rolfing works to bring higher levels of function, efficiency, balance, and strength to the body’s posture and movement patterns by improving joint alignment, increasing range of motion, evoking inner body awareness, and establishing body-wide coordination and continuity of movement.

Chris will be available to work on athletes from 10-12:30 on the Jack & Adam's deck.

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Thursday, September 9, 2010

Ironman 70.3 Austin

Do you want to be a part of the 2010 Ironman 70.3 Austin race but do not want to race the event? Well look no further...you can volunteer!!

The 2010 Ironman 70.3 Austin Triathlon is looking for a few good men/women to volunteer at the event.
There are several different categories in need of volunteers. For more information please click here

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Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Shop ride Sundays: Catch-up

First up, a big congratulations for everyone from the shop ride who raced at Austin Tri. I hope we managed to catch up with most of you and either wish you good luck before the race, or congratulate you afterwards.

Big-up for Tracy Ohargan who finished 2nd in her age group at the sprint race, Tracy has been riding with the no-drop group!

Next-up a big thanks to Tammy, Kelley from Tempo Multisport for taking care of last weeks ride with most of us helping out with the Austin tri. Good luck to Kelley who takes on the road racing scene for the next 2-weeks as a member of Velossimo racing

We have decided to change around the schedule for the rest of September based on the success of the Steiner Steak House ride and slot another ride in on the 19th. So the schedule for the rest of the month looks like this:

12th No-drop does Shoal Creek, Intermediate and Advanced will go North
19th Sunday Brunch Ride, Steiner Steakhouse Style (details here)
26th No-drop and rides go South

I'll be hosting unofficial rides of the Austin 70.3 course on Saturday 11th, 18th and 25th, leave at 7 a.m. sharp from the entrance to Walter E Long Park aka Decker Lake. For this weekends rides, and any before then I'd recommend taking extra spares, and a puncture kit. The roads will have all sorts of trash on them after the heavy rain. Be careful out there.

Finally, many of you were on the shop ride last month when Sandy Carson came along to take pictures for Bicycling Magazine. Sandy has put the pictures online here, and you can order copies. They also serve as a great summary of the general ride(s).

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Tuesday, September 7, 2010

J&A Tuesday Night Run

The Jack & Adam's Tuesday night run for September 7th is cancelled due to rain. See you next week!
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Wednesday, August 25, 2010

CASA Superhero Run



Sunday, September 19, 2010 at The Domain, 7 am.


Because “every child needs a hero, but abused children need superheroes,” CASA is hosting the 5th annual 5K, the CASA Superhero Run, complete with a chip-timed 5K race, Kids 1K and many chances for our participants to become their own superhero: obstacle courses, photobooth with superhero attire, healthy snacks fit for the strongest hero, a superhero costume contest and a chance for everyone to get their own superhero name and symbol. The CASA Superhero Run raises money to help ensure that someday every child in Travis County who needs their own superhero will have one! This event also serves as a chance for CASA of Travis County to publicly honor our superheroes, our CASA volunteer advocates, while offering a fun day for families and a professionally-organized race for the Austin running community.


Check out the CASA Superhero Blog here.


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Monday, August 23, 2010

The AVIA Austin Triathlon is OPEN for registration!


The AVIA Austin Triathlon is OPEN for registration!

September 6th, 2010

Imagine a world class triathlon held in the front yard of one of the most active and outgoing cities in the US. Imagine a large event with the atmosphere and intimacy of a small hometown race. Imagine biking down the most historic street in Texas. Imagine the fun. That is The AVIA Austin Triathlon!

The 2010 edition of The AVIA Austin Triathlon will bring many of the features you've only dreamed of having at an event:

•A $5000 prize purse that pros and age groupers are eligible to win.
•Live music on the bike and run course, and at the finish line.
•Free post race massage and ART, with over 20 therapists.
•Free post race food, drink, beer, and treats
•Technical clothing & hats free in your packet.
•A multi-sport expo with over 30 vendors, with interactive games and prizes
•An incredibly spectator friendly course
•A challenging urban race course completely closed to traffic
•A finish line party you won't want to end
More Info Here! Volunteer Here!

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