OKFree - Capshaw's Journal

Postscript

2011-06-21T20:47:00.000-05:00

The 2011 Freewheel was a great experience. Don Keylon is a great guy and it was a privilege to spend the week riding with him. I do hope he joins me on another ride in years to come. Don – I promise to be in better shape. I only had minor problems during the ride and was most effected by my lack of conditioning. The Ross performed great for a bike that is 29 years old. I still think it is time to retire the Ross and get a new bike. I will ride again next year. Oklahoma Freewheel is still a great value and I would encourage anyone that is able and willing to give it a try. If I can ride across Oklahoma almost anyone can.

Dennis is always a welcome sight at the end of a long day. Thank you Dennis, hope to see you next year.

Day 7: Tonkawa, OK to Caldwell, KS

2011-06-21T20:42:00.000-05:00

Don Keylon and Hal Capshaw, Kansas State Line

This was the last day of our ride and we were facing on 41 miles. We elected to leave at about 7 AM knowing it was going to be a short day. The ride was mostly uneventful with a slight cross/tail wind. The last 10 miles were directly west with a full tail wind.

Day 6: Pawnee, OK to Tonkawa, OK

2011-06-21T20:16:00.002-05:00

After spending the night with Uncle Ralph I was fully refreshed. Our trip took us from Pawnee through Ponca City to Tonkawa. On the way we passed Sooner Lake, the Marland Grand House in Ponca City and 10 miles of very flat country.

Leaving Pawnee we had a south-southeast tailwind for the first 5 miles. We then made a left onto County RT 15 and encountered several rolling hills. I felt great at this point and was actually able to rise out of the saddle and power up some of the hills. At the end of RT 15 we came upon Sooner Lake. The land is flat enough here to see the lake from a great distance away. Our second rest stop was just short of the junction of US 177. At 8 AM the wind was blowing hard enough to blow the fruit off the tables at the rest stop. Most riders couldn’t wait to head north. Don and I left the rest stop together and averaged 25 MPH for the next 17 miles. We flew. After lunch as Subway in Ponca City we turned back south into the wind for 2 very difficult miles. Turning west we had 10 miles of flat riding into Tonkawa.

Day 5: Bristow, OK to Pawnee, OK

2011-06-21T20:15:00.000-05:00

My new best friend, Boss!

Today was to be a long day and it was. We rode 86 miles, the longest distance of this Freewheel and a personal best for me. The day started in Bristow as 5 AM with a thunderstorm. This delayed our start to about 6:45 AM. The first 33 miles to Chandler were wet but not too hilly. The most significant event of the day was encountering broken glass just outside of Stroud. All day, from that point on, we saw riders with flat tires. Fortunately, Don and I both avoided any damage. I worried about it all day. Turning north from Chandler we had the wind at our backs. I was dreading this day from the minute the Freewheel route was announced but the weather made the ride enjoyable. It was cool most of the day with a moderate south wind.

Turning east into Pawnee we had yet another group of thunderstorms approaching. This turned the wind from the east. The last 7 miles as into the teeth of this wind.

I felt the best today and look forward to the next two shorter days.

Day 4: Checotah, OK to Bristow, OK

2011-06-21T19:58:00.000-05:00

Last night I camped at the Checotah High School Field House. The building did not have AC so I decided to camp outside under the awning at the First Baptist Church. At about midnight, a thunderstorm hit the town. Apparently, the storm was so bad that they evacuated the main camp. I was not aware and just tried to stay as dry as possible. Once the storm was over I was able to get back to sleep. Sleep was hard to get on this night.

We covered 79 miles today. This was, by far, the hardest day so far. The morning started at 6:07 AM. Unfortunately, I fell in downtown Checotah. At a stoplight I was unable to get my foot out of the clip and over I fell. The only thing that hurt was my pride. I guess I am learning to roll when I hit the ground.

The ride out of Checotah was smooth and fast. I was able to hook up in a train with the Bartlesville Peddlers. They pulled me to the first rest stop at an average speed of 19 MPH. I had a great time, thank you Bartlesville Peddlers.

Don was able to catch me at this first rest stop and we rode together most of the day from there. Once again he was able to pace me through some of the hardest parts of the day. At Dennis’ rest stop (the last of the day) I told him to head on to Bristow and find us a good camping spot. Off he went and was in Bristow in less than an hour.

For me the last 19 miles were painful. By the time we reached the last stop the temperatures had climbed significantly. In nearly gave up on the second hill we had to climb into Bristow. Dad met me half way up the hill and gave me some strawberries and water. What a welcome sight the high school was when I finally arrived.

Before picking up my luggage I found shade under Bradford Pear tree and laid down to slow my heart rate. This was at 2:30 PM. At the time I am writing this (7:15 PM) my heart rate is still over 90BPM.

Okmulgee Lake Spillway

We travelled through some very pretty country today. Places like Morris, a quiet little town east of Okmulgee. And, I have new respect for Okmulgee. My impression of the town has been formed by the route through town on US 75, north to south. Today, we travelled across from east to west. There are very nice neighborhoods, main street and then Okmulgee Lake. Lunch was provided by Trinity Lutheran Church in Okmulgee and was the best lunch so far of the Freewheel. I ate a loaded baked potato and salad. They even provided ice for the riders. It was great! Slick, OK is a small town between Okmulgee and Bristow. Hot and not much there.

Lunch also afforded the one mechanical problem of the day. When I returned to my bike I found the front tire flat. I struggled with changing the tire until a young man from one of the support bike shops offered to help. He took my wheel and had the flat fixed in about 5 minutes. He also gave me some good tips on how to repair a flat while on the road.

Don looks cold on the Bristow air conditioning

This is indoor camping

Tomorrow is the route to Pawnee. It’s a scheduled 86 miles and is going to be tough. I am seriously considering cutting the dogleg and riding direct to Pawnee, on 55 miles. I will let you know my decision tomorrow.

The facilities in Bristow are great. We are located in the high school basketball arena. AC and quiet. I hope to sleep good.

Day 3: Wewoka, OK to Checotah, OK

2011-06-21T19:53:00.000-05:00

The old Checotah Schoolhouse?

A typical Freewheel Rest Stop: The fruit is always fresh!

We had a great day of riding. Leaving Wewoka the temperature was 81° with a 10 MPH south breeze. The roads were relatively flat but rough. In fact, they were so rough that my backside feels like hamburger tonight. I have decided to retire the Ross after this ride. I am sure that newer technology will help with my ride and a nice seat will surely help me avoid rider’s rash. Of course, losing 50 lbs might help too.

Schooling in Checotah

Don Keylon and I rode together most of the day. I am certain he can smoke the course if he were to choose to do so. He, however, has been hanging back with me. I am grateful for his company and encouragement. It’s been great doing the Freewheel with him. We rode 74 miles today and face 79 miles tomorrow. Better get a good night’s rest.

Day 2: Coalgate, OK to Wewoka, OK

2011-06-21T19:46:00.000-05:00

I got an early start this morning, 5:30 AM. Indoor camping is the way to go. The truck was located just outside our door, no tent to take down and AC all night.

I had a tough day riding today. Starting out of Coalgate we had a number of rolling hills which took the wind right out of me. For the most part, there was a strong south wind which became a cross wind when we were riding to the west. In typical Freewheel fashion we had a long downhill ride into Holdenville, OK with a hard stop at the bottom of the hill. I just hate to scrub off so much energy when it’s so hard to generate!

I learned today that mass works for you going down hills but more than makes up the difference going up hills. Duh! I need to lose lots of weight before I do this again.

After getting lost early, minor mechanical issues and not feeling 100% I ran out of gas 5 miles from Wewoka. I saw significant rollers ahead and knew I wouldn’t be able to climb the hills. At this point in the ride I found a shade tree, rested and ate some peanut butter crackers. I didn’t know that the route turned north just beyond my resting point. After a 30 minute rest I rode the final easy 5 miles.

We stayed at the fairgrounds in Wewoka. This town did a great job taking care of 800 Freewheelers.

Day 1: Durant, OK to Coalgate, OK

2011-06-21T19:42:00.000-05:00

The road out of Durant, OK

Milborn, OK Post Office

Our first breakfast was served in the student center at the college. I had eggs, sausage, biscuits and gravy. It was very good. I travelled 64 miles today. I had trouble with my shifters all day. The front derailleur would not stay in gear just as soon as we left Durant. I the first stop I was able to borrow a screwdriver and fix the shifter. However, I was afraid to use the shifter again all day. With that problem solved at about mile 25 the rear derailleur developed the same problem. I rode to mile 52 in my highest gear for most of the stretch. In order to hold a lower gear I had to hold the shifters in position by hand. At mile 52 I was able to flag down a SAG and tightened this shifter as well. I was also able to top off with water as well. It’s a good thing, I was just about out of water and we encountered a number of high rolling hills on the way into Coalgate. I actually ran out of water just as I arrived into Coalgate. In addition to the mechanical problems I encountered on the route, I completely missed the lunch stop; never saw it. I was completely out of gas when I arrived into Coalgate.

I have decided to camp indoors tonight to help with my recovery. I am looking forward to a good night’s rest. Today’s route was mostly flat with the exception of the last 12 miles. A really tough day.

Day 0: Durant, OK to Carpenter's Bluff, TX and back

2011-06-21T19:22:00.000-05:00

HC Capshaw's Original Home in Durant, OK

Dad and I arrived in Durant at about 9:30 AM. On our way into town, we drove by my Great Grandfather’s home. It appeared vacant and it looks like it is owned by Southeastern State University. I made a note to ride over to the house after my ride to Texas and take look around. We set up camp and I bid Dad farewell. He had made plans to visit several local cemeteries to locate markers for a number of our family members and I did not want to impede that project.

I started my journey down to the Texas state line at about 11 AM. Immediately, I was able to feel the effects of a lack of training. This was not a good sign for the rest of the week. The temperature when I left was 93°. The route was smooth with few hazards. There was a slight headwind going down.

Carpenter’s Bluff, TX consisted of a bar at the end of the longest one-lane bridge I have ever seen. The bridge was constructed in the 1910s to allow trains to cross the Red River. A footpath that served as a horse and wagon crossing was also constructed at the same time. One could cross the Red River for a fee. The bridge was about 1/3 mile long and was in such disrepair that portions of the guardrail had rusted away, leaving nothing between the riders and the Red River 75 feet below. The water looked inviting but the word was that it was hot and dirty.

I snacked and hydrated, then started back. The way was gently uphill with a nice tail wind. It was 97° when I returned to Durant. Camping in Durant was hot. We were located on the football field and I had to be creative the find a spot of shade. I finally lay down on the west side bleachers and was able to cool off just a little bit.

The bike is in great shape. At least it appears that I will be able to count on the bike. I have plenty of storage on board and the Camel Bak is a lifesaver.

I met up with Don Keylon after my ride. Don is close friend of Dan’s (my brother) and had been introduced to the Freewheel last year by Dan. We actually rode through the home town of Don’s father during last year’s ride. Don and I are going to try to ride together during the week. But by looking and Don I don’t know how I will keep up.

The accommodations are very bad. No showers, no cold water. I can’t wait to get out of Durant. I am calling home now and then off to bed. All in all this was an okay day.

2010 Freewheel Was Great

2010-06-20T12:59:00.007-05:00

Summary -- By Hal IV

2010 Freewheel is over for this year and just as last year it was great. Sure we had some hills to climb, hot weather to endure, rough roads and one wasp sting to overcome but Dad and I road every mile from the Red River south of Hugo, OK to Joplin, MO. Dan joined us in Heavener, OK and rode the balance of the Freewheel. Congratulations to the organizers of the event for putting on a great ride and a very reasonable price.

Overall, I put 459 miles on my odometer. I think there is about a 5% error in my measurement so the actual distance was closer to 436 miles. This includes all Freewheel planned miles plus the several trips into town for dinner and other reasons. The course was hilly but not so challenging to discourage another attempt next year. I did have one very serious mishap on day zero but will get to that shortly. The weather cooperated with rain only in Heavener and this was overnight. It was hot, but what's to expect of an Oklahoma June.

June 12, 2010 Hugo, OK to the Red River and back

The 2010 Oklahoma Freewheel proves to be a challenge fror all. My OKFree started off on the wrong foot. Leaving town, not two miles from camp, I took a nasty spill. A man was crossing the road and yelled at me. I turned to acknowledge him and must have move my handlebars. Into the curb I went. I fell hard on my right shoulder and head. It appears that nothing is broken but I am very sore in my shoulder and rib cage.

I decided to get back on the bike and ride on to the Red River; 1) to determine how I felt and 2) to check my bike out. The 9 miles down to the river were uneventful and the 11 back were with the wind. Everything seems to be functioning okay. The bike is fine, I just hurt really bad. I am more comfortable on the bike than in camp. moving around is very difficult. Lesson: Don't talk to pedestrians when your travelling 20 MPH.

I will post more from my journal soon along with some pictures.

On the Eve of the Oklahoma Freewheel

2010-06-11T22:30:00.002-05:00

Dad and I took a 51 mile ride yesterday in final preparation for the OKFree. I felt great and could have easily gone another 25. I think I am ready.

Tomorrow we will drive down to Hugo and from there I am going to ride to and from the Texas line. I will keep you posted on our progress when I can get into a library.

Oklahoma Freewheel 2010!

Less than two Weeks to go

2010-05-25T20:57:00.003-05:00

Oklahoma Freewheel starts June 13th. I will start this year's ride weighing at least 30 lbs less than last year. Strap a sack of potatoes to your back and ride 420 miles. That's equivalent to what I did last year. I learned my lesson.

We are all looking forward to getting started this year. Stay tuned as Dad, Dan and I will post along the way as time permits.

2010 Team Capshaw - Brought to You by Live-Life-Fit.com

2010-02-11T08:53:00.002-06:00

Look for our new team kit this year!

Hal's Summary

2009-06-14T21:24:00.003-05:00

Last July before I broke my humorous in two places I had the OKFree in mind. Dad had told me about the great times he had in 1998. After my fall, I did not think I would ever be able to accomplish this goal. In December I decided that I would at least try. I mentioned it to Dad and then Dan. I think Dan actually drove Dad and I to complete the task by recording his training activity. We had to live up to the expectation. Dan, thank you. I could not have made it without your help.

It was a long ride. There were times when I wanted to quit. There were times when I thought I was way out of my place. But, there were more good times than bad. I think my most memorable moment was during one stretch on Day 4 where I was all alone on the road. All I could hear was the wind, birds, my tires and my breathing. It was at this particular moment that I was able to see the beauty that God has placed on our earth, the strength and good health he as bestowed on me and the privilege to live in the most beautiful and blessed country on earth. I grew closer to my family and much closer to God on this trip.

I will do the Oklahoma Freewheel again. I can't wait for my kids to get a little older so they too can experience the event. Thank you again Lynn for letting me do this. This was on my bucket list...now it's off. Thank you Dan and Lori for coming so far and making this a truly memorable week. And thank you Dad for overcoming many things to join us. I thank God that we all arrived in Kansas safely.

If you're interested in 2010 OKFree we are looking for riders now!

Day 6: Fairview to the Kansas State Line

2009-06-14T20:56:00.002-05:00

Distance: 65.89 miles
Time: 5:05:54 hours
Average: 12.9 MPH
Max: 21.8 MPH

This was our last day on the road. We had made the decision to alter the route, cutting out the Alva stop, so that Dan and Lori could fly back to California on Saturday. Since we did not have ride support we tried to stay together in the event there were any problems along the way. Boy were there. About 12 miles out of Fairview we discovered that a bridge was out on our route. Our choices were to detour 20 miles around the bridge, ride through and take our chances or turn around. We decided to ride through. Dad and I were riding together and relaying information back to Lori and Dan to the best of our ability. On approach to the construction site we encountered a large thunderstorm system. We rode as long as possible into the weather but finally decided to seek cover. We stopped at a farm house about 1/2 mile off our route and asked to take cover in their shed. Thank goodness they said yes. The storm was very strong with rain, wind and hail. The hail was mostly dime sized in diameter but toward the end of the storm we had quarter size hail coming out of the back of the storm. When we walked back to the farm house Dad picked up one hailstone about 1.5 inches in diameter. Any of those would have hurt.

The lady was kind enough to provide detour instructions around the bridge. It required riding through dirt roads that were more like sand dunes. I was able to ride most of the way with my larger tires. Dad had to walk much of the three extra miles. I know this was quite difficult. Fortunately, this was the extent of our unplanned challenges of the day. The route was mostly flat with very little wind. It was good to ride with Dad. We were both grateful to see the Kansas line.

Day 5: Thomas to Fairview

2009-06-14T20:53:00.003-05:00

Distance: 55.98 miles
Time: 4:14:51 hours
Average: 13.1 MPH
Max: 35.3 MPH

Here are the specifics of my ride for day five. You can see my comments about the ride in the post titled "An Interlude".

Day 4: Cheyenne to Thomas

2009-06-14T20:34:00.003-05:00

Distance: 66.86 miles
Time: 5:08:45 hours
Average: 12.9 MPH
Max: 38.6 MPH

This is the entry as recorded directly in my long on June 10, 2009.

Our stay in Cheyenne was really good. The people of the town did a great job of hosting the OKFree crowd. Dan, Lori and I ate dinner at the Methodist Church. The spaghetti, salad and desserts were just like you would find at home. Asking around camp, it was clear that all the food offerings were just as good.

While we did not take advantage of the service, they also provided shuttle service into town and the local national park, Washita Battlefield. Cheyenne went all out, thank you.

The ride today was my best so far. I felt great from the moment I mounted the bike. Our route took us back through the same difficult hills from the day before. However, what took me 50 minutes to complete yesterday required only 16 minutes today. It's amazing the benefits of downhill stretches, a tailwind and fresh legs.

Most of the course was rolling hills, delivering some high speed descents and gruelling climbs. One fact is clear, Oklahoma is NOT flat in the west. The weather cooperated for most of the day. It was a full 10 degrees cooler at the highest temperature. While coming into Thomas a storm was building to the west. I was first to arrive in camp just it started raining. I quickly located high, flat ground and erected my tent. Dan and Lori rolled in just as I was retrieving Dad's luggage. We quickly set Dan's camp up, in the rain. Then Dad arrived. He had a tough day with a blown tire and having to ride in the rain. We sat his camp up and then all piled into my tent along with all our things to ride out the storm. I would estimate that it rained hard for about 1 1/2 hours and then the sun came out. We set everything out to dry. Now, it's cool with and east breeze. Hopefully, that's the last of the rain.

Dad's Summary

2009-06-14T20:26:00.000-05:00

Old Man’s Summation
Well we all survived the OKFreewheel. Kind of surprising considering all of the miles traveled and all the fruit was ate in route. Was it fun? Well that depends upon how you define fun. It was hard riding while being sleep deprived and being HOT every afternoon. It does give you a feeling of accomplishment. Yes it does!
I began this “event” with some level of concern about my overall condition and my ability to keep moving forward. I felt that my wind and heart conditioning was ok. I was less sure that I could sit on a bike seat for the 6-7 hours per day needed to finish some of the long rides. Bike riding also exacts a heavy toll on your shoulders and neck.
As it turned out I got a little stronger every day – but it was not until the last two days that I actually felt like my conditioning was reaching a level that I could finish the ride that days without wanting to just lay down for a couple of hours. The first 3 days I had many doubts that I could even finish the course.
Do I recommend it to you? Well not if you don’t train for it! And I mean to train hard. Is it fun? Yes it is fun. You can meet as many people as you want to meet. Or you can be a hermit and meet hardly anyone. Most folks are really friendly. And most of them do their best to allow you your space and to be courteous in all of their dealings. I actually did not hear any arguments the whole week.
This OK Freewheel idea came from my son Hal. Hal got Dan on board and then they put it to the Old Man and twisted my arm to go. Dan put the pressure on beginning from January on by reporting his training on his Blog (mymountaintrail.blogspot.com). Anyway I HAD to go. They teamed up on me. It was GREAT to have Dan and his wife Lori here from California. Lori is a super tri-athlete so she was ready for this event (any event!). Dan trains with her so he is in top condition too.
We met some neat folks, Paul, Larry, the guys from Texas and Colorado that tented next to us in Apache, Mr. Baker, David Jones, the lady with the dog that she pulled from town to town, Jan Wilson that kept my insulin in her ice chest every day, the people of Oklahoma that hosted us all week in all of these great towns, the Oklahoma State Troopers who watched us like hawks and kidded with us when they had a chance, the volunteers who planned the OKFreewheel and kept things on track.
I think that plans have been set in place to do it again next year. We shall see. But the ride this year is going to be a major event in my life. Why don’t you try to go next year too??

Dad's Daily Log

2009-06-14T20:18:00.002-05:00

Old Man - Day 2
Today we rode from Apache to Cordell. It was an amazing ride. About 69 miles and the longest ride of the Freewheel. After a stop in Carnegie for a lemonade I found a $20 bill on the road. Obviously lost by a Freewheeler who was in front of me. I did not catch up with the person that lost it. Later I give it to the head of the OKFreewheel and hopefully it got back to the person that lost it. The country that we rode through was variable and very remote. The only good thing on this day was that the last 7 miles was downwind. Even so it had a fair number of hills, and was I ever glad to top the last one and see Cordell in the distance. I found a laundromat and washed a few clothes. It was neat to see how the communities pulled together to try to make our stay pleasant. Cordell did a good job of selling their city.
Old Man - Day 3
Today we rode from Cordell to Cheyenne. It was an amazing ride –only 65 miles but it was a TOUGH day. It all went pretty good until the last ~10 miles. The most unusual event of the day was in Elk City. I had forgotten to replenished my cash supply so I did not have enough money in my pocket for lunch (I had a travelers check but Subway did not cash checks of any kind). I stopped at a Subway and had ordered my sandwich when I discovered my error. There was only one other Freewheeler in the shop so he said ”I will buy his lunch.” I was floored. He had never met me and obviously didn’t owe me a thing! So that is how I met Paul. We ate lunch together and became good friends. Paul was not at all worried about getting paid back either. He said he could not see a fellow biker go hungry. After lunch we parted ways and I DID pay him back as soon as I could get it done in Cheyenne.
I felt pretty good all day until it got hot and we turned West into the wind. That 10 miles was an unending run of long hard hills. On one of the last hills – seemed several it was miles long – there was a sign that said something like “Can you smell the finish line?”. Right after that sign there was a gravel turnout – since I could not smell the “finish line” I turned off the road to gather strength and to try to work up my courage to keep going up that hill. About 10 bikers passed me and every one of them inquired as to my condition and asked if they could help. One of the persons that passed me was a man with only one leg. He had a prosthesis but could not use the prosthesis leg as he had no muscle above the knee. Talk about courage! Needless to say, after I drained my water & Gatorade I continued the trip, about another one half mile to the top. After one more LONG hill, Cheyenne came into view.
We had GREAT food for dinner and breakfast in Cheyenne. The camp was really quiet after two long mileage days! Cheyenne may have been the best stop we had, all things considered. Oh yes. I found a $5 bill on the road today. Was able to catch up to the two ladies in front of me and one of them had lost it. The $5 was all she had for lunch. She was very glad to get it back. God never makes us a debtor as you will see in Day 4. He always pays the bills and this time He was no different.

Old Man – Day 4
Today we traveled from Cheyenne to Thomas. What an experience. Cheyenne to Thomas was only – you guessed it - another 65 miles. At about 50 miles into the ride I was not doing anything out of the ordinary, and then probably going 13MPH down a slight hill and – BAM my front tire blew out. No not just a flat, it blew out – sounded like a 30 caliber pistol. Now the really interesting part of this is that I had been going as fast down the hills as I could. 35 MPH was not unusual and I know I was over 40 MPH at least once. What do you suppose would have happened if the tire had blown out at those speeds? Not very pretty is it. Coincidence? No not really. I don’t believe in coincidences. God’s timing is always perfect. Oh and a few minutes later one of women bikers stopped and just happened to have the number of one of the bike shop repair trucks. He got there and had me back on the road in a jiffy. I was able to continue on to Thomas.
The last 5 miles were a little exciting. It started to sprinkle and then started to lightning. BIG sky to ground bolts. I made it into the campsite and Hal had his tent up and all of our stuff in it – so everything did not get wet. I rode the hardest I did all week those 5 miles to try to get to camp. Enough excitement for the day. It was really cool that night and I maxed out on sleep – about 6 hours worth.
Old Man – Day 5
Thomas to Fairview, only 52 miles. Remember it rained yesterday. So today we started out in the fog. You could not see the rider in front of you if he/she was more that 100 yards in front of you. My glasses fogged up so I could not wear them. And drops of dew collected on the eye lashes – something new to me. This was very beautiful country once the fog lifted. Lunch at the Christian Church in Canton was really good. A lot of selection and good food. I even got a piece of pineapple upside-down cake. Yum!
Canton Lake was very impressive and the Corps of Engineers is doing a lot of heavy construction work on it. I thought the road over the dam was going to last forever. The lake is a lot bigger than I had imagined. Dropping down into Fairview was a dream for bikers. High speed-run with great scenery. The food there was average at best. The BBQ sauce was all that saved the day.
Old Man – Day 6 (And our last day)
From Fairview to the Kansas State line. It was about 66 miles from Fairview to the Kansas State line. We had to finish up on Friday so that Dan and Lori could fly back to California on Saturday. Dan had to be back home to run in a 7 Km race on Sunday. He needed a day to “taper off” before running. Day 6 was eventful but perhaps the best thing was that we rode as a family more than any other day. Hal and I stayed together all day and Lori and Dan caught up to us at Driftwood, OK about 20 miles from the finish. We all drafted for a while and then Dan and Lori jetted on to the finish line. We took the obligatory picture at the Kansas sign. Then before we could take the picture of the Oklahoma sign, Rosie showed up with the truck and she took the last picture. Finally, I felt real strong today. After all of this riding, I was ready to quit but we had moved much faster and with more authority over more miles because the conditioning of the week paid off. Wish we had all started off the OK Freewheel in our finishing condition. Would have made the week much more enjoyable.

Mission Accomplished

2009-06-13T23:23:00.002-05:00

At the finish.

OK in our rearview mirror.

Dad and Hal crossing the state line into Kansas.

Well, it looks like I will be the first to blog our success. It was quite a week for all of us. Lori and I basked in the ambiance of the OKFree culture, and Hal and Dad scaled their personal mental and physical mountains. I’m not sure who was challenged the most. Lori and I had a great time at OKFree, and are very grateful we were able to participate.

It is a marvel to watch the diversity of the community; and to watch it face each day. Ride 60+ miles, okay. Get up at 4:40 a.m.; no way (for us). Stand in line to take a shower; why not? Climb unexpected hills and fight North headwinds that should have been tailwinds; uhm, okay. Grimace through saddle sores, neck cramps, and numb contact points; oh, okay. Eat spaghetti three nights in a row and not get eggs the next morning because you slept past 6 a.m.; OK4sure. Choose your own route because your agenda deviates from the collective’s; OK, you’re Free to do that. Be friendly and respectful with/of your fellow participants; OKFree is all about that.

It was also great to spend some time with my Dad and Bro’. It has been over 25 years since we have faced daily challenges together. While it was obvious as the week progressed that we cope in our own ways, it was also great to work together and for each other to make the week go better for all. Thanks Hal and Dad for all that you did to help Lori and I fit in and survive the week.

And finally, thank you to my lovely, wonderful wife, Lori, for joining us. You are my ultimate companion and friend. Oh yeah, and thanks for taking it easy on me while we were on the road. :-)

An Interlude

2009-06-11T16:32:00.004-05:00

This is a fella I met today on the way into Fairview, Ok. He actually posed for the picture.

I am at the library located in Fairview, OK and do not have my trip statistics for days 4 or 5. However, both days have been good days. Yesterday I felt the strongest yet on the trip and arrived first into the camp. This is a huge responsibility as the first in camp must locate the best camp site, consisting of flat and high ground, no nighttime lights, absence of late night music or other commotion and of course, if possible, power so that we can run all of our electronic devices. The fun part was that yesterday was unique.

Our route took us from Cheyenne to Thomas, about 65 miles. About 15 miles away from Thomas I could see the western sky start to cloud up this was welcome as the temperature never got over 80 degrees during our ride. As I was coming into town there was lightning on the horizon and I knew that my priorities had changed. Once at camp I could feel the first rain drops and quickly located my stuff and set my tent up. By this time Lori and Dan had arrived and we all went and retrieved the rest of our items. These were thrown into my tent to keep them as dry as possible. By then the rain was coming down in full force. I helped them get their tent set up and then flagged Dad down when he arrived. He was much later due to losing a tire on the route.

It rained for a full 1 1/2 hours and then the sun came out and it was hot again. We were able to dry most of our things last night and went to bed feeling good that we had survived the day. Overnight the temperature dropped considerably as the wind turned around to the north. Not a good sign since the next morning we were to ride due north for most of the day.

We awoke to heavy fog and cold. The first hour of our ride this morning was in a dense fog. So dense that I could not wear my glasses for all the water on the lenses. It was quite difficult to assure that I was still on the right route as I could not see far ahead, did not have other riders around me, and couldn't see well without my glasses. This part of the course (Oh, we were riding between Thomas and Fairview, about 54 miles) must have been mostly downhill because despite the conditions I was able to exceed my average speed for any hour during the trip. At 15 miles the fog lifted and it was clear riding. Then came the north wind. I first noticed it when large trucks would pass on the other side of the road. The gust of wind would knock a full 2-3 MPH off my speed. Then the wind became sustained at about 7-10 MPH. Fortunately, it was a cold wind.

All in all, the two days were good days. I have felt my best and am not intimidated by 50,60 or even 70 mile days any more. I have learned what I can and cannot eat while riding. I now know how to stay hydrated. I am much more comfortable on the bike as a whole.

I will post the specifics of both days as soon as I can.

Hal

Two Pictures from Days 3 and 4.

2009-06-10T20:22:00.003-05:00

Here is a picture of Dad in Cordell:

Here is a picture of some of the locals we met while riding in to Cheyenne on Day 4:

The last two days of riding have been really great! The rolling hills are a blast, and the wind hasn't been too much of a factor.

Lori and I keep getting the last bits of food at most meals. Breakfast has been the worst. I just can't figure out why everyone gets up at 4:40 a.m. when they are on vacation. Hey, at least sleep in until 6:30 p.m. Tonight we lined up early for our third pasta dinner in a row, and got our fill. Yeah!

We are having fun for sure!

Day 3: Cordell to Cheyenne

2009-06-09T20:37:00.003-05:00

Distance: 66.10 miles
Time: 6:06:01 hours
Average: 10.8 MPH
Max: 40.6 MPH

The route today took us through some of the most desolate wilderness in Oklahoma. There were many stretches today where there was little or no sign of civilization and with the exception of oil/gas field trucks there was no traffic. The first 30 miles I felt great even though we were headed west into a strong south wind. I had my first mishap today when my rear tube blew out. I was headed out of Burns Flat, OK when it popped and immediately went down. Fortunately, I had purchased a spare tube the night before. All I needed was air. Fifteen minutes into the ordeal ride support had not passed. Joe Savage, operations manager of the Oklahoma Space Industry Development Authority stopped and offered help. He shuttled me to a hanger, helped to air my tire back up and then ferried me right back to the spot I had gone down. Joe, thank you so much for the help and join us next year in OKFree.

The last five miles were torturous with four hills each larger and steeper than the last. The short story is I made it to camp. Now it's time to shower, eat and prepare for another 65 miles tomorrow.

See ya...

Hal

Day 2: Apache to Cordell

2009-06-09T20:29:00.003-05:00

Distance: 70.74 miles
Time: 6:16:26 hours
Average: 11.2 MPH
Max: 30.0 MPH

Leaving Apache. That's the moon. The sun came up about 10 minutes later.

The only entry I have in my log is "Strong headwind most of the way." It was the most guelling day I have ever had on doing anything. There was a 20 mile stretch riding northbound with more uphill than down into NE wind of 15-20 MPH. I stayed in low gear for more than 2 hours. The last 8 miles were great with an east wind blowing us into Cordell.

After about two hours of recovery I was actually glad I had finished the day.

Old Man Reports

2009-06-07T20:14:00.002-05:00

Well, it has been 2 days and I am still walking around. Yesterday (Day 0) I did a very foolish thing - I went with my boys and rode about 36 miles - starting way too late in the day. Then today (day 1) it was 51 miles. Felt pretty good until the last 10 miles. Then I hit the wall! It seemed like it was ALL up hill and I spent the last hour griding away in 'granny gear'. One thing I saw today was a rattlesnake cross the road right in front of me. I would have run over him if I had not seen him at the last moment. Well tomorrow will be a challenge. How did I get myself into this?

Day One - Take Two (Check This Guy Out!)

2009-06-07T19:41:00.002-05:00

Our ride today was fun. It was beautiful. The last 10 miles were pretty tough. We had a strong cross/head wind, and there was some climbing. And when you are 69, you understand appreciate all of the good... and you suffer during the tough parts. Here's the result:

After food, water, and shower though, Dad was good to go. Tomorrow will be harder, but we all seem to be up to the task for now.

Must run now to prepare for tonight's wind/thunder storm. C U tomorrow!

Day 1: Duncan to Apache

2009-06-07T17:59:00.004-05:00

Distance: 55.19 miles
Average: 12.3 MPH
Max: 36.7 MPH
Time: 4:28:46 hours

We survived the great wind storm of Duncan. After going to bed last night at about 10:30 the wind started to pick up. I Googled up the weather and it said that we were experiencing sustained winds of 28 MPH with gusts up to 42 MPH. At the camp site I know we had a few gusts well over 42. During one such gust our tent completely collapsed onto us. This was extremely scarey for Amber. She had only camped once and never experienced anything like it. We ended up breaking one pole and sleeping on the opposite side of the tent.

The route is very good. It's amazing to see the expanse of the country out here. At one point in the day we topped a hill and you could see, I estimate, 50 miles in any one direction. At lunch my average was 13.7 but I had enjoyed a strong tail wind all day.

(Lunch time.)

However, when we turned west into Apache the wind and the uphill grade both worked against me and dropped my average to the posted level. I was ready to quit only once today. Just after lunch my legs acted like they did not want to work and the food I ate for lunch had not taken effect. I ate 1/3 of a Powerbar and that seemed to do the trick.

It's amazing the people you see on the ride. From very young speedsters to more mature pacers. The most impressive was a family of five, the kids being 10, 8 and 6. They all made it into camp.

Off to Cordell tomorrow. See ya...

Hal

Day 0: Post Log Red River, TX to Duncan, OK

2009-06-07T17:35:00.005-05:00

Distance: 36.15 miles
Average: 13.0 MPH
Max: 27.3 MPH
ET: 2:45:40 hours

I would like to start by thanking my lovely wife, Lynn, for allowing me to participate in the OKFree. I know you have sacrificed much and I have not always been grateful.

I love you Lynn, thank you!

This morning started very early. I was awake at 4:30, decided to create our commencement post and then finished packing. We left for Duncan at about 7:30 and stopped at Jake's BBQ in Chickasha. Some of the best BBQ ever.

We arrived in Duncan at about 12:30, set up camp and headed down to the Red River.

After taking picturesby the Texas state line we were headed north at 3:30 PM. With a strong tail wind it looked like the day was going to be relatively easy. By the time we reached Wareaka the temperature had risen to 94 degrees at the 1st State Bank.

For the most part, the ride was flat with a good south wind. The ride was uneventful. The scenery was amazing.

(Over the Shoulder)

Living out here must be very peaceful. I was particularly impressed with the two boys south of Camanche selling cold drinks. I know they made more money in that one day than they will for the next three years. Good old American capitalism at work.

I learned that I must maintain my own pace, stay over hydrated and always "keep the tank full". The seat on my bike leaves much to be desired. Next trip I must pay attention to my equipment. Weight is critial and less is better, both personal and that of my equipment. All-in-all it was a great day. It's 9 PM and bedtime.

Hal

Day Zero

2009-06-06T04:46:00.003-05:00

The day has finally arrived. Dan and Lori landed at 4:40 PM yesterday afternoon with, it appears, half the contents of their household. I wonder how they're going to carry all that stuff from Texas to Kansas, but that's their challenge. After mom had filled us with one of her wonderful dinners, befitting a grandmother of old, we proceded to complete the assembly of the travellers' bikes and get them loaded onto the bike rack for transport down to Duncan. After about 45 minutes of loading and unloading we were able to get all four bikes onto the "four-bike" rack. I am convinced that Thule must use smaller bicycles in their testing and development. Anyway, the bikes are loaded and we will be leaving very shortly.

For me, I feel grossly undertrained for the event after seeing the level of preparation that Lori and Dan have put into their effort. I can only hope that I will be able to finish with dignity each day. They, on the other hand, will be in the front pack. At least we are assured of a great camp site each day! I have finished packing and am sure that I will think of five things I have forgotten by the time we get to west Tulsa. Almost to the point of no return...

See you tonight in Duncan, Oklahoma.

Hal

Scratch Eight More Hours

2009-06-05T02:04:00.002-05:00

Well, we made it. Lori, Cookie, and I put the finishing touches on our packing tonight. Finishing up a bit before 11 p.m. Here's the load:..

I was surprised how fast the packing list added up. 70 pounds each is a lot (not including the bikes too!), but I think we managed to get close to maxing out. Hey, you have to have your own fresh roasted coffee (Ipenema Dry Process), Turkish grinder, and Jet Boiler -- don't forget the decaf either (Costa Rica). Oh yeah, and a charger for your Kindle, and your cell phone, and your camera, and your computer, and your bike motor. And of course then there are the Hammer gels, and GUs. Oh yeah, and the plush Thermarest and chair combo. Did I mention extra batteries for the Polar GPS unit? Film for the Leica? Naw, no film or Leica. Just checking to see if you made it this far.

Anyway, it's packed. Now it's just a matter of getting it to the airport, on the plane, off the plane, and home. Then, build up a couple of bikes. Sort through everything and leave it behind -- except for the coffee of course. After all that, it will be time for a ride.

We're all excited for this trip. Oh by the way, they cashed our check so we are even official.

Hey, funny thing about the bike boxes above. The big one is Lori's little bike, and the little one is Eddy. Not what you would expect. Not what Eddy expected either. I heard some pounding and muffled harrumphing after he was packed. Those Belgians can be so demonstrative.

C U Soon Okay? Free to ride at last.

Two Days and Counting

2009-06-04T08:47:00.001-05:00

On Saturday 6 JUN 2009 Dad, Lori, Dan, and I are setting out to ride the 2009 edition of the Oklahoma Freewheel। With great anticipation we will set out from just across the Red River and over the next seven days will ride circuitously through Oklahoma to our final destination of Kiowa, KS। We will cover about 450 miles with about 1000 other riders। I will attempt to post journal entries at the end of each day if I can locate a local library in each town.

If you're interested in more information on the event here is the link to the Oklahoma Freewheel site.

http://www.okfreewheel.com/

See you on the road...

Hal