Time flies by here in Tucson, almost as fast as the fighter jets that are constantly overhead… It seems as if I just got here, but it has been nearly a month already! I’ve been training for collegiate nationals lately so that has kept me on the bike. Collegiate Nationals, but aren’t you out of college now? Very good question. More specifically I’ve been training with Chloe as she prepares for the race weekend. Most days where she’s doing intervals I’ve been helping by setting pace with the SRM. It’s great because if she looks comfortable for two seconds I can just up things that little bit extra. All in the name of getting that training effect… I like being on my bike and she likes having someone to chase so it all works out nicely. She, of course, is the favorite to win the STXC, XC, and the Omnium titles in Division I for the next four years. I might be somewhat bias, but she’s set to do very well irregardless of my predictions.
I finally did a ride up the Catalina Hwy on Tuesday and rode until about 6,000 feet before turning back down. I didn’t leave with enough food or drink to ride to the top, so after 11 miles I headed back to town. I’d heard about how dynamic the ecologically changes are going up the road and it was as impressive as I expected. Next time I head that way I’ll be sure to fill my jersey pockets a bit more completely…
The Taurus passed the emissions test today after initially failing on Monday. Apparently the check engine light can’t be on so some repair work was in order to diagnose and correct the problem. I’m not one to understand much ‘carspeak’, but the camshaft sensor was missing and the part it mounts to was also wrecked and had to be replaced. Long story short, now at 213,000 miles it’s running like a charm AND the check engine light is getting a well deserved break after burning brightly for the past 123,000 miles. Next step will be getting AZ plates and drivers license. After that, registering to vote ought to have my residency off to a legitimate start.
I’ve missed the Wisconsin fall to some extent, but when I heard on the phone that it was snowing recently I was quite pleased with Tucson’s 85 degree sunshine. Thanks for checking up on me! Keep it Real, -TJ
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