Rolf Devinci

In -2C temperatures and under blue skies I managed to get in a 50 km club ride this morning. Accompanied by 7 other riders we did the usual Saturday morning route out to Laurie Park and back. It was cool but not uncomfortable,especially when exposed to the direct sunlight. What a nice bonus! Sure felt good to get back out on the road although the worse part will be cleaning the bike later tonight.(wink)

Having sold my old Schwinn mtb to a lady heading to Cuba with the intent of leaving it there for her Cuban friend I was in a situation where I wanted(needed)to purchase another newer MTB. I was looking for something that was capable of more advanced trails but could also double as a commuter and,perhaps,to dabble in cyclocross next season. It just so happens(fated?)I bagged first place in the football pool at work this month and with the money from the Schwinn sale I had about $500 in the war chest.I have been checking Kijiji and also spec`ed out some new bikes at the shop. I really liked the Giant XTC line but with the 2010 XTC 2 listed around $900(plus tax) I had quite some way to go before I could justify the purchase. Especially considering I just bought a new road bike six months ago. Turns out I was eyeing a bike on Kijiji that was my size, had a nice component mix and seemed to be in great shape. Listed at $700 it was a little more than I wanted to spend for a used bike. Turn

Having survived the holiday season and all the extra calories it entails without self destructing too much it`s time to start Spring training in January to prepare for the upcoming cycling/duathlon season. Once I finished the last beer in the fridge January 3 I am now off the brew to avoid the needless extra calories over the winter months. Having gained about 10 pounds since the first of December it was time to reign in the questionable dietary habits. Research has shown that protein consumption in the morning for breakfast satiates one for longer and helps mitigate the urge for snacking during the day.It also cuts out excessive carbohydrate intake when you(I)don`t need it.....sitting at a computer all day.Not very condusive to weight loss. As a result I have begun to add lean protein sources to my breakfast regimen; eggs,dairy and whey protein powder and have limited the breads and cereals.I have noticed a difference and no longer find myself starving by 10:30AM craving a cinnamon