Doc Ernie's Blog

First, an apology…..
I am sorry that it has been so long since my last update. I am obviously not a blogger who is into bringing you each tidbit of news or accomplishment achieved in my life.
Yet there are a few very important physical goals that have been able to achieve since my last update in June.

During the dry season here I was able to average 100 to 120 miles per week bicycling on the road. Total miles on my Moots titanium hybrid are now 2500 in the past 15 months. Now that the rainy season is upon us, I am back indoors in group spinning classes 3 to 4 days per week. Dry roads and temps above 43 degrees F keep me outdoors and on the road.
 

Now to the reporting of two fantastic goals accomplished this cycling season....

I can now ride the entire Chilly Hilly bicycle route, 33 miles and 2500 feet of elevation gain – and do not have to get off to walk any sections. Long hills are okay, yet the steeper the gradient the more difficult it becomes. Riding the ~ 18 percent gradient up to Battle Point Park is the most difficult, fortunately it is only a short section of steep road before leveling off. My heart rate is typically 185 on that climb, not too bad for a 50 year old pump.

On September 27th 2008 I was able to complete my major training goal for the season.
I bicycled 100 miles in the Wenatchee, WA area on the Dam2Dam ride for the Mike Utley Foundation to raise funds for spinal cord injury research. The actual stats were 102 miles in 7 hours 10 minutes on the bike, average speed 14.1 mph, total elevation gain ~ 3250 feet, average heart rate 144 bpm.
I was supported by my wife Gwen, who rode 60 miles (only her third time on the bike all summer), Keith Heinzelman (my amazing physical therapist) and good friend Tom Crane who both rode the whole route with me.
Honestly, it is still hard to comprehend and believe that a C5 incomplete quad can complete a 100 mile bicycle ride in one day, riding on a two-wheeled bike. The more people I meet with spinal cord injuries, the more fortunate and blessed I realize I truly am.

Here are a few photos from the ride. First with my wife, then with Keith and Tom at the finish, and finally with Mike Utley.
Thanks for reading!