Heffalump

mhvh, not too many customers, They did seem to be pushing the letter of the law. On the way back into town with the bike in the back of a ute. we spotted a Team rider who was about to be last bike on course. He was having trouble with a tyre and asked for help. I explained about outside assistance but said I was happy to help. (as I said last bike on the course and he just wanted to finish so his runner could have a run). Next thing there is a TO threatening to DQ him. He then inflates his tyre with the tube still sticking out and thats his race over. But for a little understanding of the situation and a couple of minutes they could have had him finish the race. I keep thinking about that quote about rules being for the obedience of fools and the guidance of wise men. Thoughts?

I had to pull out on the bike due mechanical and helped for a little while at the bike turn around. This was also the penalty box. The whining that came from that box had to be heard to be believed. It was a bit embarrassing in front of these lovely volunteers to hear these guys (only guys) carrying on.

KTJ, don't worry about the descents. You are often above the tree line so you can see the whole corner, the road surface is generally very good and the motorists are very bike friendly. After a couple of weeks you will be surprised how quickly you come down a mountain. There was a nice bike shop in Bourg (2 years ago, I assume it is still there) but I would pack some spare brake pads. If you are a little tentative like me you will go through them at a surprising rate. As TC said, pack your winter gear. I was there in July 2011 and Galibier was closed for a day or two with snow. It's the mountains and it does change pretty quickly. Have a great trip, it's an amazing place.

I rode up to Ax3 6 weeks ago. One of the toughtest climbs I have ever done. Lots of changing gradient. Surprised to see the official guide refer to it as 'not utterly ridiculous' Great finish and how good does Richie Porte look for next year?

As Raff said, the ACCC is handing down it's determination on the Virgin/Tiger Merger on Apr 24. I would wait and see if that gets the go ahead before I thought of booking with them. I believe Tiger have submitted that they are losing an unsustainable amount at present. Read into that what you will. Disclaimer: I work for QF.

Loved the course, loved the fact that Concord kicked Balance arse in all fields. Just a great weekend away!

I was in Hong Kong, so ran (ok that may be stretching the truth) up Victoria Peak from Causeway Bay. Passed an old Chinese gentleman playing a wooden pipe in a park (how's the serenity). Got to the top and enjoyed great views over the Harbour and towards Stanley...would have traded it for lzbones' run in a heartbeat.

Nealo Macca Quack KAM Smurfet47 gregb PaperMan Stem TheLogicDump Clyde Nath Uncle Junior Mr Flower 24points TJ01 JeffS (wearing trannies cap with SILV) Mango steve_c Heff Swim and LC run

Like the OP I haven't done one, but based on how I felt after a HIM. I think anyone who can go twice that distance is a bloody legend, regardless of time. You don't need a long neck to be a goose Trek!

So is this what you guys mean by HTFU?

Could the percentage gain for drafting be greater for slower riders? In sailing the wind shadow cast by a spinnaker is longer in light winds than in strong winds where it seems to fill the hole much earlier. Of course even 30kph would be considered strong winds for sailing so the speed we are travelling may be above a certain threshold. However just a question for our boffins.

Some of us can only do short and fast......now what forum am I posting on?

Hey guys, I have a work trip to Manila on tuesday and we are heading out to help at an Orphanage on one of the days off. I was wondering if anyone had an old guitar lying around that they might care to part with. Most of the kids are pretty young so I would prefer a 3/4 Nylon but anything would be good. I can pick it up on Monday anytime or Sunday evening if around the city. Thanks John

I'm in, looking forward to some nice Qld weather. Anyone seen the wave starts?

Yeah nasty bug, every time you think you have it licked the bastard comes back at you. I am now extremely well tapered for Yeppoon.