My Grand Strategy for the 2009 Leadville Trail 100
A Note from Fatty: Thursday night at midnight (MDT), the contest for the Orbea Orca / Diva With Shimano Di2 Components ends. If you haven’t checked this bike out, go here for details, and then go here to donate. Good luck!
Thursday morning, I head out to Leadville. But I’m not driving alone. Nosirree. As you’d probably expect, Kenny is driving with me.
But not just Kenny.
Three other members of the core team — Dug, Gary, and Ricky M — are coming along, too. And so is my sister Kellene and my bro-in-law Rocky.
And they’re not even racing. They’re coming for the road trip of it. They’re coming to crew for me.
They’re coming, in reality, because it’s my 21st wedding anniversary, and it’ll be good to have some friends and family around.
Where I Am, Fitness-Wise
This was me, March 28 of this year:
I’m sorry, I probably should have warned you before showing you that picture.
Anyway, this was me, last week:
Oh, and just in case you didn’t notice the quads:
Notice any important differences? That’s right! For the first time ever, there’s a photograph of me wearing different glasses than Oakley Racing Jackets! I am now the proud owner of a pair of Oakley JawBones, in LiveStrong yellow.
These are the most comfortable cycling glasses I have ever owned. And as a 10+-year user of a different frame, that’s not a trivial statement (Full Disclosure and Gloat: Oakley provided these frames and prescription lenses to me at no charge).
But aside from the glasses, there’s also the difference that I’ve lost about 23 pounds since the end of March, and have very good power right now.
I’ve been riding hungry, and I’ve been riding angry.
But I have not been riding very far, and I think that is going to impact me on race day.
My Plan of Attack
Since I had until recently put the race out of my head as a possibility, I find myself with an odd situation: I am coming to the race without any requirement or goal, except to have fun.
So I’ve decided to try an experiment: I call it “go ’til you blow.”
I don’t think this experiment needs much explanation. I’m just going to ride really hard, until I can’t. No computer this time. No stopwatch. I’m just going to ride, really hard, and see what happens.
Here, by the way, is my prediction of what will happen: I will have a good, fast time all the way to mile 60. Then, on the flats between mile 60 and 75, I will find myself being passed with increasing frequency. By the time I get to the two big mountain passes in the final quarter of the race, I will be so bonked that I will not even know who I am.
And this is what I will be riding (click here for larger version of image):
The Gary Fisher SuperFly Single Speed. I have dubbed mine “The SingleFly.” It weighs 18.5 pounds and it is my favorite bike I have ever owned.
Fully rigid and currently geared at 32 x 20. A conservative choice. I’ll be spun out on the flats, but will have a better chance of remaining on my bike in the climbs.
It should be an epic day.
Let’s Get Together, Yeah Yeah Yeah
If you’re going to be at Leadville, why don’t we get together and go for a casual, easy mountain bike ride the day before the race?
I’ll be at the parking area right by the dam at Turquoise Lake at 1:00pm this Friday. Arrive on time and I will take your picture with Kenny, who has agreed to go topless for the occasion.
Oh, and also we’ll take a picture of you with me, and you can tell your friends that you met Stanley Tucci while in Leadville, and isn’t that weird?
Short Posts, With Pictures
Starting Thursday afternoon, I’m going to start doing posts from my phone, which means they’ll be short posts, they’ll be frequent posts, and there will be lots of pictures.
So check back often.
Comment by sllym | 08.12.2009 | 9:58 pm
Your core team rocks…and so do you. My thoughts are with your family.
Allez Fatty!!!
Comment by Renata | 08.12.2009 | 9:59 pm
Allez Fatty !!
Comment by Dorothy | 08.12.2009 | 10:05 pm
Go Fatty! I wish I was going to be there
… I think your visit to Leadville will eclipse Lance.
Comment by Jay | 08.12.2009 | 10:11 pm
I didn’t know Stanley Tucci is a rider. You should post a picture of yourself. Maybe with Stanley!
Comment by Powerful Pete | 08.12.2009 | 10:12 pm
I like the approach. Just go out there and do it.
Awesome fitness by the way. I will wait for the weight-loss before posting similar pictures… a photo of me today topless would require a ‘graphic – NSFW’ warning.
Comment by Jason Crane | 08.12.2009 | 10:15 pm
Huzzah! Go like the (non)fat wind!
Comment by Scott Rosenbaum | 08.12.2009 | 10:19 pm
strategy? you don’t need know stinking strategy.
ride fast, take chances, WIN
Comment by Susan | 08.12.2009 | 10:23 pm
Dang – good thing you told us who’s in that second picture…nice. Happy Trails! Susan will be smiling.
Comment by sassyb | 08.12.2009 | 10:24 pm
I don’t even know you which makes me feel a bit stalkerish. It was long winding trail to get me to your site via TDF and Lance, and I have to tell you that I’m hooked and will be following your posts for many months to come. My thoughts are with you and your family. Anyway, I just wanted to say go out and kick some ass at Leadville. The trails won’t know what hit ‘em!!
Comment by aussie kev | 08.12.2009 | 10:29 pm
i have been perfecting the “go ’til you blow.” style of racing my whole life !!!!
allez fat man
k
Comment by el gato (team san jose) | 08.12.2009 | 10:29 pm
Unleash the monster Fatty. I’ll be cheering from sea level.
Comment by Lisa | 08.12.2009 | 10:33 pm
You are an inspiration – I certainly don’t want to go through all you’ve been through to get in such great shape, but it is great that you are using all those emotions to work for you. Have a great ride!
Comment by cheapie | 08.12.2009 | 10:34 pm
yikes! you shouldn’t show pics like that before warning us!
i was talking about showing us your SS superfly when it’s not available to anyone else yet. why? what did you think i was talking about?
Comment by Nick | 08.12.2009 | 10:54 pm
Wish i was there with you – next year….
Good luck to everyone – are you making a call on a time – i guess 9:30.
Comment by Barbara | 08.12.2009 | 10:58 pm
OK…I’m inspired, off to the gym then the bike…Note to self, no pictures.
All the best!
Comment by nono | 08.12.2009 | 11:01 pm
Allez Fatty! Allez.
And when you get to those mountain passes, and are feeling completely “bonked” know that not only will Susan be chanting you on from above, but all of us will be as well. Compared to what you’ve already endured Fatty…Leadville is a piece of cake.
Peace, courage, strength to you.
Comment by Jenn | 08.12.2009 | 11:05 pm
Allez Fatty!
Comment by Mile High Mark | 08.12.2009 | 11:08 pm
Allez Fatty!
Wish I could be there to cheer you on. I’ll be thinking of you (and Susan) while I’m riding the singletrack in Boulder.
Kick some ass, amigo!
Comment by anji | 08.12.2009 | 11:09 pm
Have an awesome race!
Comment by steve sax | 08.12.2009 | 11:14 pm
Hey there racer formerly known as fatty…
Sounds like a good strategy to me! Just go have fun
and if you eat and drink reasonably well, you should
be able to find what it takes to finish ok.
Good karma from out West, man!
Comment by bikesgonewild | 08.12.2009 | 11:18 pm
…got a feeling you’re gonna be carried along as if you had wings…
…breath deep, stay hydrated & blow out any previous expectations ya had…
…this is yer leadville, fatty…go for it !!!…
Comment by justhomas | 08.12.2009 | 11:18 pm
Good luck in Leadville. Wish I was going to be there with you. I just got me a copy of the magazine “Mountain Flyer” (July 10 through September 20 issue) They have an article on Leadville and right on page 22 are three guys wearing “Fat Cyclist” jerseys at the starting line of last years race. I thought that was really cool. Again good luck, have fun… You deserve it.
Comment by Kathy | 08.12.2009 | 11:43 pm
Hi Elden.
I have been drawn to your blog and twitter posts since Lance tweeted at the TdF.
I am so sorry for you and your family’s loss. Your wife’s struggle and your reaction to that struggle has reminded me about the important things in life. You both reminded me how beautiful the power of unconditional love is in a relationship. I wish you a Happy Anniversary even though it is under very sad circumstances.
I also have to thank you for inspiring me to start riding my road bike again. It had sat in our basement for nearly 15 years. A month ago I dusted it off, my husband update some of the parts and I began to ride and ride again. I became hooked! No need to explain that you! In fact, my newfound love of road bikes brought me to Contender today where I purchased a gorgeous Pinarello FP3.
While I was there testing bikes I heard you had been in the store. I would have loved to meet you in person. I did meet a very nice friend of yours who I can only describe by his awesome belt buckle. I think it had letters on it, but I’m not sure.
I wish you well at Leadville. Your bike choice looks great. Enjoy the ride. And, thanks for sharing your story so that you may inspire others to LIVESTRONG and WIN!
Take care,
Kathy
Comment by Niall | 08.12.2009 | 11:47 pm
Would love to be there but will have to follow from here in Australia. Who’s this Tucci fella?? (LOL).
Comment by Jason | 08.12.2009 | 11:59 pm
That is the most sexy bike I have ever seen… Your gonna KILL it! Wish I was ridding… instead i will be have to “go till ya blow,” up AF Canyon.
Comment by Philly Jen | 08.13.2009 | 12:11 am
From Stanley Poochy to Stanley Tucci. Nice.
Though I miss the little black bar you used to put over your eyes in the “Before” photo.
And can someone please explain to me the whole sunglasses-over-the-helmet-strap thing? (Yes, I know that’s how the pros do it, I just don’t understand why.)
What’s the over/under on how long it will take for the Kenny
Comment by Philly Jen | 08.13.2009 | 12:16 am
[...whoops]
…how long it will take for the Kenny-induced hysteria to return here among the distaff readers of the site?
Comment by bobbieh | 08.13.2009 | 12:17 am
You go, guy!!!
Comment by -p- | 08.13.2009 | 12:36 am
Hell of a bike. What pressure will you run in the tires for the big race?
Comment by Janneke | 08.13.2009 | 12:36 am
Allez Fatty!!
Comment by jenjen | 08.13.2009 | 12:54 am
Good luck Elden!
XOXO
Jen
Comment by sarah | 08.13.2009 | 1:00 am
that sounds like a great strategy to me.
allez fatty!
Comment by Little1 | 08.13.2009 | 1:05 am
Allez Allez! Have a blast, there is nothing better sometimes than having a plan to just ride! and going without the comps and stopwatches it’s awesome sometimes to ride “blind”
looking forward to the updates!
Comment by Liesel | 08.13.2009 | 1:19 am
Okay, so I know racing only from a running standpoint. But I do know this. Maybe it will work for bike racing, maybe not, but try it on. It’s mostly a mind game. Your body can go so much farther than your mind can go. If you put vibes out that you are going to get passed at miles 60-75, then you will. Mentally, you will start to slow down without even knowing it. And you will convince yourself that ‘duh, that’s what I knew would happen’. But it will have so much more to do with your mental state than the quality of the bikers next to you. If you believe you can do it, and do it well, than you will. It’s all about your vibes. It’s a mind game. A mind f*ck if you will. It is what you make it. Fight. Fight for Susan. Fight for your kids. Fight for you. Make it what you want it to be.
That’s all. The end. Luck, love, and good vibes your way.
Comment by BrindiCruiser | 08.13.2009 | 1:29 am
Go get em fatty! Enjoy yourself
Comment by XCTiger | 08.13.2009 | 1:32 am
Have fun this weekend. Ride because you love it and you need it.
I’ve long felt that the mind is the happiest when it gets the chance to beat the snot out of the body. I sense there might be a little venting of frustration going on in Leadville. Relieve a little stress, Replenish your emotional energy and come home a little more mellow.
You deserve it.
Comment by Saso | 08.13.2009 | 1:36 am
Have a great ride!
Comment by MonsTher | 08.13.2009 | 2:00 am
Looking strong! (And fast;-)) Good luck!
Comment by FatArsedWombat | 08.13.2009 | 2:00 am
The Go ’til You Blow strategy is a sure thing with the Quads + Jawbone Combination.
What could possibly go wrong?
AWESOME, Fatty. Wishing you a magic ride.
Comment by Jill | 08.13.2009 | 2:30 am
Wow. I want to go just for the picture with Kenny. My picture with him is just sleeveless (and a little road rash.)
Good luck and have a great time. I think the Go til you blow strategy is brilliant. With all the things you might have you have churning around in your head right now, I imagine a few hours in the fuzzy shadows of the pain cave might even feel peaceful. You certainly deserve it.
Comment by Born 4 Lycra | 08.13.2009 | 3:57 am
I picked the sunnies straight away trouble is I thought it was Lance in an FC top. No not really but the sunnies stood out like db’s (dogs b*lls). And contrary to the last pair they look like they should be there on the head of a Leadville racer. I really hope you break 9 hrs but more than that I really really hope you have a great time.
Livestrong Fatty and Fight Like Susan – You deserve this!
Comment by chiggins | 08.13.2009 | 4:12 am
Your quads, sir! They are merely hewge!
Good luck, be careful at the start, and have a good race.
Comment by buckythedonkey | 08.13.2009 | 4:15 am
I really wish you looked like somebody I’d heard of. Like Sid James.
I love your Leadville reports – best of luck to you all.
Allez Fatty! WIN!
Comment by Randy | 08.13.2009 | 4:32 am
Allez Fatty
Comment by Mike E | 08.13.2009 | 4:34 am
Darn being in the UK, wish I could get to Leadville and cheer you on mate. By the way, if your updating from your phone I do expect photos and updates whilst riding, I mean come on, you do have 100 miles to do it in. maybe one update per 10 miles? Seems reasonable!
Have fun out there Fatty, All the best to you and yours.
WIN!
Comment by curtis | 08.13.2009 | 4:37 am
Looking forward to the updates from Leadville. Have a good race! If nothing else, it’ll get you ready to ride the 100 (non-race) miles of the LIVESTRONG Challenge in Philly the following weekend. See ya there!
Comment by James | 08.13.2009 | 4:52 am
Philly Jen wrote: “And can someone please explain to me the whole sunglasses-over-the-helmet-strap thing? (Yes, I know that’s how the pros do it, I just don’t understand why.)”
IANAPRO, but I do it because if I do it the other way, my sunglasses move around every time I open my mouth. Which is, you know, a lot.
Yo Elden, I hope you use that 32×20 of Trail Domination, +3 vs Climbs, to good effect.
Comment by Jamieson | 08.13.2009 | 4:58 am
So great to have family and core team with you on your travel. And you have all of us cheering for you.
Ride the best you can, and like you said, have fun at it.
WIN!
Comment by Ady | 08.13.2009 | 5:06 am
Allez Fatty!
Cheering you on from the other side of the big pond,
Ady in UK
Comment by Janeen | 08.13.2009 | 5:11 am
“Go Til’ You Blow”………Hmmmmmmm….Sounds like a new slogan for NIKE! Best of luck. I am excited for you. Can’t wait to hear (or read rather) all about it in your posts!
Comment by Joby Oreta | 08.13.2009 | 5:23 am
Go Fatty!! Feels wierd calling you that when we can all see that you’re no longer fat. We’ll be cheering you on from The Philippines!!
Fight Like Susan!!!
ps: say hi to Lance for me!
Comment by Mike Roadie | 08.13.2009 | 5:24 am
Leadville!!!
Quads!!!
Smoothly shaved!!!
Oakleys!!!
FLS
Comment by Andy | 08.13.2009 | 5:35 am
LAUNCH AN ALL OUT ASSUALT BROTHER!!! I LOVE IT! ATTACK!!!!!!
Comment by Onan the Barbarian | 08.13.2009 | 5:36 am
Allez Fatty!
Fight. Win. Ride.
Comment by Mark Kynaston | 08.13.2009 | 5:46 am
Fatty,
Have a good one! Lord know’s you deserve it
Comment by Jeremy | 08.13.2009 | 5:58 am
Good luck Fatty.
Comment by Andrea | 08.13.2009 | 6:03 am
Good luck Fatty! Hope your “go ’til you blow” strategy works out for you!
Comment by lara | 08.13.2009 | 6:21 am
good luck, elden! i might be there, along with my folks…wearing our fatty jerseys…cheering you on! go ’til you blow man…i like it.
Comment by DeborahB | 08.13.2009 | 6:23 am
Dude, you look AWESOME! Well done. I need to get a jersey for my husband. He’s a hard-core rider, just like you. He’d look almost as good as you in it. Good luck on the ride. As always, prayers for you and the kids.
Comment by Mike | 08.13.2009 | 6:27 am
Woohoo!!! Rock on and good luck! I like the “go til ya blow” mindset! :)
Comment by Michael | 08.13.2009 | 6:32 am
I’ll be road riding in Michigan this weekend but my thoughts will be with you and your mountain bike in Leadville. Have a fabulous ride you are a podium finisher already.
Comment by Den | 08.13.2009 | 6:35 am
Elden,
So glad you are riding Leadville. It means a great deal to all of us that you are.
Have fun!
Comment by Tyler | 08.13.2009 | 6:40 am
Allez fatty! Enjoy Leadville and the presence of your core team, sound like you know some amazing people. You & your family are in my thoughts and will be as I train for Livestrong Philly this weekend.
Comment by JP18D | 08.13.2009 | 6:47 am
you go… and if you blow it’s going to be a sight.. somehow I think your “core” team has a wing man (or woman) this go round…
Comment by Anonymous | 08.13.2009 | 6:51 am
Nice race strategy Fatty…tho I believe the “go till you blow” has dual meanings…I’m thinking of the “go till you blow chow” is a potential…a little Mt Vesuvius deal somewhere on the trail..THATS when you know you’ve reached your “GO” potential. Good luck…can’t wait to see all the pics w/ Stanley Tucci! have a GREAT weekend! And keep the rubber side down!
Comment by smithmtbr | 08.13.2009 | 7:02 am
Mr. Skinny Fatman,
Hope you ride with the strength of 10 men (not including Stanley Tucci) and one angel! Great luck to ya…
Comment by Heather | 08.13.2009 | 7:04 am
Good luck at Leadville! You are so inspiring!! I’ll be thinkining of you and following your posts!! Ride hard and blow it out!!
Comment by Julie | 08.13.2009 | 7:05 am
Allez Fatty!!
Comment by Big Boned | 08.13.2009 | 7:11 am
THANK YOU OAKLEY!!!
Allez, HUZZAH Fatty!
Have a great time.
Comment by Chris Driggers | 08.13.2009 | 7:15 am
Have a good ride Fatty! I’ll be doing my longest ride ever on Sunday, 62 miles, gearing up for what I hope will be a couple centuries by the end of the year, and then a Century a month all next year!
Reading your posts for the past several years has increasingly motivated me to get off my ass and do this. Thanks!
Comment by Hillslug | 08.13.2009 | 7:16 am
Ride hard and have fun. Sounds like a good plan to me!
Yes, you should have warned us about that picture.
Comment by kiwi | 08.13.2009 | 7:24 am
Ride till you drop? Its a plan,its always good to have a plan…..Have a great weekend!
FIGHT LIKE SUSAN!
KIWI
Comment by Skilit | 08.13.2009 | 7:25 am
Good luck!!
Comment by Janene | 08.13.2009 | 7:25 am
OMG! U R one hot guy! U look great :) Can’t believe the transformation since JUST March. I’m a 47 yr-old female … BIKING NUT … since I was 17 yrs-old. Road, mtn, and downhill…luv them all.
Just started following ur site, I’m hooked (I have laughed and cried). I too have 2 sons that are the same age as your boys (no girls) and have been married 20 years. My son’s friend’s dad was buried yesterday (age 50), died of cancer. I rode for him yesterday.
Sooo freakin’ happy ur riding Leadville. EVERYONE will be there cheering you on…especially Susan.
You have class and heart. Have a BLAST!
~ janene from CT
Comment by Cyclin' Missy | 08.13.2009 | 7:28 am
Fatty, I’m so excited for you! Riding for fun will be awesome, and you have an amazing crew! Stay in one piece and have a good ride!
BTW, you’ve totally lost your tummy, gained muscle, and you look great! Keep it up!
Comment by Spandx | 08.13.2009 | 7:32 am
Those glasses look sweet! Looks like your note to Oakley worked out for you.
Have a blast at Leadville!
Comment by Michael Schlei | 08.13.2009 | 7:35 am
Ride hard Fatty! Leave it all on the course. I will be wearing my Team Fatty jersey and cheering you on from the flatlands of Houston.
Prayers are with you and yours.
FIGHT LIKE SUSAN!
INSPIRE LIKE ELDEN!
WIN!
Comment by Gillian | 08.13.2009 | 7:38 am
Looking good, buddy. Kill that course.
Fight like Susan! Win!
Comment by Tracy | 08.13.2009 | 7:39 am
I hope Leadville is cathartic. And, most of all, lots of fun. Allez, (to the cyclist formerly known as) Fatty!
Comment by sherry truitt | 08.13.2009 | 7:42 am
awesome, best of luck to you. i hope that just knowing how many of us who you don’t know you, but support you and your lovely family will motor you through that last climb. peace for your journey.
Comment by Dave | 08.13.2009 | 7:46 am
Go Fatty Go! Win for Susan
By the way, your before and after pictures have really inspired me. Its raining today but I will ride.
Comment by VT Rob | 08.13.2009 | 7:48 am
Have a great time! And Fight Like Susan!!
Comment by Ka_Jun | 08.13.2009 | 7:53 am
Ride hard, Fatty. Ride hard!
Comment by Jaime O. | 08.13.2009 | 7:53 am
Kenny topless? Man, how long would it take to drive from DFW to Leadville?! teehee
Maybe you should put a blow basket on the front of that bike for the “blow” portion of the race. Just sayin’.
Comment by Beth | 08.13.2009 | 8:02 am
I have always had a crush on Stanley Tucci so I’m sorry I won’t be there for the photo op. How bout photoshopping yourself for donations? ;)
In all seriousness, ride safe, look both ways at intersections and WIN SUSAN
Comment by jilrubia | 08.13.2009 | 8:04 am
Go Fatty!
BTW Went to see a movie last weekend. My friend wondered what was wrong with me when I started chuckling at the begining…I said “Fatty is married to Julia Child!!!” They covered your quads pretty well with the costuming. Go kick some Leadville butt and have fun, you deserve a break today. (do you supposed that phase is still trademarked??)
Comment by Mike E | 08.13.2009 | 8:06 am
Whilst looking at your banner for nuts cream, (as an ocasional MTB-er i’m still intreuged/scared by that stuff!) I cunningly had your flab shot semi hiden from people at work. Thats when I descovered the most disturbing part of the photo… Mr Fats right nostril, bogies at 12 o’clock!!!
ARGH!
Comment by RandoBoy | 08.13.2009 | 8:10 am
Good luck, Fatty. Remember to eat and drink, and you’ll do great.
Comment by Leslie | 08.13.2009 | 8:15 am
Yay! Love all parts of this plan, especially being surrounded by friends and family. Allez!
Comment by Mike | 08.13.2009 | 8:16 am
Hmmm … maybe you could stick a 12 or 14-tooth ring next to your 20 in the back and just manually move your chain over before the really flat parts. Can you do that? Is that a dumb idea? I just think you’d wear yourself out unnecessarily by spinning 110-120 rpm through the flat sections.
By the way, I think this “go till you blow” strategy is brilliant. I think you’ll be surprised how far you’ll go until you blow, and then you’ll be surprised how quickly you’ll recover and then go again.
Are you going to give us a preview of your nutrition strategy? Or is it too late for that?
Comment by BikecopVT | 08.13.2009 | 8:18 am
Fatty,
I only see one problem with you plan. You see last night a whole team of us snuck out on the course and removed all the pain bubbles. We plan on going out just before the race to get any stragglers. So you see without pain bubbles there will be no bonking. We tried to get a hold of your bike to put a pain bubble plow on it but your body guards wouldn’t let us anywhere near it.
Philly Jen, the sunglasses thing is quite simple really. You see when someone else buys your stuff you have an obligation to your sponsor to show off their logo. Check out any pair of sporting glasses and you’ll notice that when under the strap the logo is covered.
FIGHT LIKE SUSAN!
Rock Leadville
Have FUN!
LiveStrong
Comment by Heavy J | 08.13.2009 | 8:21 am
YOU go Fatty! Ride for Susan!….
Comment by Tez | 08.13.2009 | 8:24 am
Good luck with Leadville, Fatty! You have the power of Susan in your heart and sole!
F-L-S (Fight Like Susan) and WIN!
PS-Find Lance and draft off him for a while!
Comment by Kaley | 08.13.2009 | 8:25 am
Allez Fatty! Well, you can certainly check one item off your previous post’s to do list-that was a very funny post! Thanks for the chuckle this morning! And-more importantly-good luck on saturday! I’ll be watching you go til you blow!!
Comment by Cory | 08.13.2009 | 8:28 am
Give em hell Fatty!
Comment by akaKathy | 08.13.2009 | 8:28 am
Massive quads + The SingleFly = Riding like the wind!
Go ’til you blow and if you blow, then suck it up and go some more.
Allez Fatty, Allez!
Comment by costalrider | 08.13.2009 | 8:29 am
All the best Fatty. Ride like the wind!
Comment by Nate V. | 08.13.2009 | 8:32 am
Might sound trite, but I’m sure Susan is smiling and very happy for you. Ride on and fight like Susan.
cheers
Nate
Comment by Kevin M | 08.13.2009 | 8:33 am
Eldon,
I am so sorry for your family’s lose. Ride hard and let the good memories carry you up those climbs. You are going to do great!
Comment by Jennifer | 08.13.2009 | 8:35 am
Have a GREAT time!
Comment by SYJ | 08.13.2009 | 8:40 am
I’m about 98.75% sure I passed Fatty and the crew (a dark green Honda Pickemup loaded down with singlespeeds) on the way into the office this AM. Good luck, Elden, Fight Like Susan!
Comment by Jeff | 08.13.2009 | 8:52 am
Go get ‘em FC! If my wife wasn’t getting her wisdom teeth taken out at 12:30 tomorrow, I’d drive up to join the group ride..
In any case, good luck on Saturday, I’ll be looking forward to seeing the race results and read your race report. Just remember your lesson from last year of forcing yourself to eat when you’re hike-a-biking!!
Comment by Velojew | 08.13.2009 | 9:04 am
Allez Fatty! Allez!
Comment by frilly | 08.13.2009 | 9:06 am
Good grief Fatty, you’re buff!
Go get ‘em Tiger.
Comment by Jaybird | 08.13.2009 | 9:12 am
Gee, if only I could shirk off every responsibility I have this week and drive to Leadville just to hold a sign that reads: GO TIL YOU BLOW, FATTY!
Comment by VA Biker | 08.13.2009 | 9:12 am
I’m not a mountain biker, but that SingleFly is beautiful! Ride like the wind for all the right reasons.
Comment by Homemadebiscuit | 08.13.2009 | 9:14 am
Let’er rip, Fatty, love your race strategy — go til ya blow!
Glad you have a good team going there for support, they need you too right now!
I think I’d count 21 also.
Fight like Susan!
Comment by Uphillbattle | 08.13.2009 | 9:14 am
Hey Elden, I say you last night in Julie and Julia. You were awesome, man! When did you find time to film a movie with all that has been going on?
Comment by TomE | 08.13.2009 | 9:17 am
Isn’t it amazing what photoshop can do to your pictures Fatty?!?!?!? Ride like the wind….hopefully the wind behind your back!!
Comment by Kevin | 08.13.2009 | 9:20 am
Rip their legs off! Its hammer time!
WIN!
Comment by Flyn G | 08.13.2009 | 9:23 am
Beautiful Bike!
Good Luck, God Bless!
Hammer til you blow!
Flyn G
Fight Like Susan
Comment by rick | 08.13.2009 | 9:32 am
Get a belt buckle
Comment by Sonoma | 08.13.2009 | 9:41 am
In honor of your anniversary, may you win one for Susan.
Kathy
Comment by Micheal Green | 08.13.2009 | 9:46 am
Nice bike. Good luck in Leadville Fatty!
Comment by Jamie | 08.13.2009 | 9:53 am
You’ll have won by just turning up. Many others, myself included, would be curled up in the fetal position, alternating with shaking our fists at the sky. You have more strength than I do, and i’m not just talking about your legs.
(And Lance/Lance’s people: Fatty and Susan just raised $500k for your charity. We wanna see you in a Team Fatty jersey. Some things are more important than any contractual obligations you may have to only wear certain logos, yeah?)
Comment by Aaron | 08.13.2009 | 9:54 am
Go Fatty Go!
Comment by Jackie Lee | 08.13.2009 | 9:59 am
I’ve just started reading your blog, your story is quite inspiring. I look forward to seeing the pics and posts! Good luck in Leadville!!
Comment by Jenn | 08.13.2009 | 10:05 am
What an awesome post. Wish I could make it from the Yukon to Colorado to have my photo taken with you. But I’ll look forward, instead, to the one of you and Lance, which I suspect might grace the pages of this blog next week. Allez Fatty! Have fun!
Comment by bikemike | 08.13.2009 | 10:10 am
Core Team rocks.
Comment by meligrosa | 08.13.2009 | 10:12 am
hey fatty. damn good post. I have been reading and following your blog for a long time and it never ceases to inspire me more and more after everything you have shared with us.
way to go, look at your legs, damn!! keep the great work and posts rolling, we’ll be following :)
much love to you and your loved ones. go team fatty!!!
<3 from SF /xo.meli
Comment by Kathleen@ForgingAhead | 08.13.2009 | 10:12 am
Elden you look fabulous! And you sound good. This warms my heart so much.
Cannot wait for the photo posts from your Leadville roadtrip. Love your race strategy – except the bonking part. And the new shades are made of awesome.
Core team – you guys totally rock!
Comment by axel in texas | 08.13.2009 | 10:21 am
I think Lance has the same strategy, he wants a new course record. I don’t think he’d mind if you drafted of him the whole way.
Comment by Jeff L. | 08.13.2009 | 10:25 am
Ya gotta warn us! That picture….oh, man….you gotta warn us. However, I would like to know how you lost the weight. I’m 6′3″ and 210 lbs. I ride a lot and thought I was in shape, but I just got my body fat done and I’m higher than I want to be….share your secret, Fatty!
Good luck in Leadville!
Comment by bruno | 08.13.2009 | 10:35 am
good luck!
Comment by Clydesteve | 08.13.2009 | 10:35 am
Philly Jen – Shades over the straps were dictated by Style-Man in Bicycling Mag several years ago. End of story. Get with it, girl.
And,Team Fatty – Philly: WOW! You guys are really showing everyone how it is done. Way to go!
Elden – The best part about your photo above. I can understand your being enamored with your quads – who isn’t? But I like the scabby knees. Makes me feel at home.
Comment by Clydesteve | 08.13.2009 | 10:35 am
Comment by Clydesteve | 08.13.2009 | 10:36 am
That was supposed to be the ” carat \b carat” for the post above it.
Comment by David | 08.13.2009 | 10:39 am
Bust it out, rock Leadville, feel the burn and go for it!
I’ve been following since 2005 and was crushed to hear about your wife.
May the gods fill you with win!
Comment by Dan | 08.13.2009 | 10:42 am
Wow dude, going with the rigid! Baller. As I fellow single speeder I’ll be anxiously awaiting your post-race assement of your gear and fork choices.
Comment by scotty | 08.13.2009 | 10:47 am
grip it and rip it fatty…can’t wait to hear how it goes!
Comment by Aimee | 08.13.2009 | 10:49 am
Why sir Tucci, where did those amazing quads blossom from!??!
Comment by mikE | 08.13.2009 | 11:04 am
I can hear the quotes now, “Lance who…Hey, there’s Fatty!”
You should be courteous and allow Lance to draft those first 60 ‘GO’ miles.
Comment by Ricardo | 08.13.2009 | 11:29 am
Good luck Fatty. Give’em hell!
Comment by metalcommuter | 08.13.2009 | 11:33 am
I need to take some before and after photos. I’m much fatter than you, but have lost 12 lbs since May or so.
Good luck with the race and have fun!
Comment by Paul | 08.13.2009 | 11:37 am
Go Fatty Go!
You are an inspiration. Keep on and best to the family! Attack and have a great ride. WIN!
Allez Fatty!
Comment by Fort James | 08.13.2009 | 11:41 am
I love you Fatty. Tear it up!
Comment by MEDIUM BRAD | 08.13.2009 | 11:41 am
Fatty your eulogy of Susan was very touching, as it hit home as I eulogized my mom Diane as I may have told you a few months ago. The Ciclismo raffle we did together last yr, and her passing around my YouTUBE speech with Lance last year from Ride for Roses was one of her prouder moments near her end, and I used it in her eulogy. Thanks for being the inspiration for allowing me to make my mom proud, and I hope to shake your hand personally this weekend as I am very proud how you have handled everything in the last year, or even a hug if you are hugging person. Fatty I will try to catch up with you in Leadville, and am wearing a bit of T6 Fat Cyclist gear around town in Copper as we speak. I did end up doing the Tour de France trip with Ciclismo as promised after they gave us the free trip to raffle, and it was EPIC. 450 miles and 54k of climbing, so I hope I am ready to finish my first leadville, and in honor of the Fatty jersey from 2008 sleeve, I weigh exactly 201 lbs. 35lbs down for the race. I will be happy to have you follow my 6′5″ frame on the last flats you speak of, as I hope to do in 10:30-11 range. I hope we catch up to meet in person this weekend.
Medium Brad
Comment by Kathleen@ForgingAhead | 08.13.2009 | 11:43 am
By the way, have you heard that San Jose team member Ryan is going to be at the very tippy top of the biggest hill?
He says he volunteering to improve his chances to get into the race next year, but we all know he’s doing it to support you!
Team Fatty Rocks!
Comment by Math. | 08.13.2009 | 11:58 am
Best of luck for the week-end. After all you been through lately treat yourself……and do it for you and you alone! Race it hard and fast, but most importantly, do it for fun, I’m sure it’ll be rewarding!
Have a nice one.
Math.
Comment by Mark W | 08.13.2009 | 11:59 am
Good luck and allez fatty!
I have been experimenting with “go till you drop” approach too. I advice you bring the computer or HRM but turn it outside down or tape up the display. That way you have some data (assuming you can download) to look at and analyze how good or bad your ride was.
And see if you can arrange foto with LA.
Comment by Charlie Brown | 08.13.2009 | 12:04 pm
Go ’til you blow – I suspect the “blow” spot will be when Merilee tells you to stop pedaling!
See you there!
Comment by Alyson | 08.13.2009 | 12:12 pm
Yo, Elden…awesome pics Dude! and you are way better looking than Tucci!:-)
Now remember to be nice to Lance, he is not used to being overshadowed!:-) Will be watching from Seattle and cheering you on! Have an awesome time & soak up the love.
Comment by Mike | 08.13.2009 | 12:21 pm
Fatty,
you shave your arms?! what is the rule on this? it looks good, but where does it stop?
Have fun at Leadville. Happy anniversary. You have a suitcase full of karma and courage, use it and Win!
I look forward to seeing you on the trail someday.
Mike
Comment by Haven (used to be Kt) | 08.13.2009 | 12:22 pm
Hey Not So Fatty– you should put a warning above your “before” picture so those of us eating have a chance. I’m just sayin’.
The after shots look great, you’ll definitely kick some serious booty this year at Leadville. Try not to make Lance sad when you pass him, ok? Being chatty on the hills is NOT NICE. Be gracious when he asks for a photo with you.
I’m looking forward to your updates!! Those faint cheers you’ll hear are from your fans in Oregon and Washington.
Go go go!! :)
Comment by canknitian | 08.13.2009 | 12:28 pm
Allez Fatty!
Comment by El_Animal | 08.13.2009 | 12:39 pm
Is that the picture or you have a little ding in your rear rim? Oops, I hope it’s not too late to notice it.
Good Luck!
Comment by chefjt | 08.13.2009 | 12:51 pm
Philly Jen wrote: “And can someone please explain to me the whole sunglasses-over-the-helmet-strap thing? (Yes, I know that’s how the pros do it, I just don’t understand why.)”
Not sure I buy it, but I’ve read in more than one publication that straps-over-glasses causes pressure from the straps pushing the earpieces into your head.
More importantly, Fatty, I wish you a great ride in Leadville. Hope my weight loss attempt is as successful as yours had been. Hope to meet you in Philly.
WIN!
Joe S.
Comment by MattyJay | 08.13.2009 | 1:00 pm
That is a BEAUTIFUL bike! Rock out at Leadville!
Comment by LuckyL | 08.13.2009 | 1:22 pm
Dear Elden,
Great photos, both of them! Can’t have one without the other when showing progress. i always wanted to have “frog legs” like bikers but my thighs are more those of a weightlifter. They called me “thunder thighs” in college when I was skiing.
Anyhow, you look great and I’m so proud of you. I have a journey ahead of me that will take some motivation so I can’t thank you enough for your spirit and your humor and the heartfelt inspiration you share. I’m so glad I found your site and when I can I will donate. Meanwhile, my thoughts are with you and your team.
I know your time and your friends in Leadville and Philly will fill your heart and soul in so many ways and I’m looking forward to hearing about your adventures.
Allez Elden!
Comment by dieselmike | 08.13.2009 | 1:33 pm
Just do it!!!
Then blow.
Allez Fatty
Comment by GenghisKhan | 08.13.2009 | 1:35 pm
Just came across this at urbanvelo.org and thought it was pretty cool:
http://urbanvelo.org/international-win-for-susan-day-august-23rd/
Comment by Scott in MN | 08.13.2009 | 1:38 pm
Fatty,
Happy Anniversary, and you darn right you count it! Good luck at Leadville.
Scott
Comment by Erin | 08.13.2009 | 1:39 pm
I thought it was just that you had clothes on…
The new specs are great.
Comment by annainaspen | 08.13.2009 | 1:55 pm
Kick butt this weekend and ride hard! Good Luck and have fun!
FIGHT LIKE SUSAN!
Comment by sam | 08.13.2009 | 1:56 pm
Go Fatty Go!! (“go skinny go” just doesn’t have the same ring!!!)
I feel quite feeble as I am taking a week to cycle what you do in a day!! It’s a relaxing cycling holiday with Mum round the county of Suffolk in the UK – no Go til you Blow for us!!! ;-)
Comment by Azriel Abramovich | 08.13.2009 | 2:07 pm
Explode away fatty (did you do the same diet as Wiggins?!)! Anger can take you the remaining quarter. And we know how well you bonk (you are by far the best bonker ever). So don’t disappoint the masses!
C’mon, we need more F.C gear for sale! The masses need their Jerseys!!!
A’z
Comment by Jake | 08.13.2009 | 2:18 pm
Sub-10!!! Have a great ride.
Comment by Tom Fury | 08.13.2009 | 2:27 pm
Yes, yes you SHOULD have warned us. Now I have that, and the image of the time I walked in on Ethyl Merman in the bathroom of a cruise ship in 1975 stuck in my head forever.
Comment by aloof | 08.13.2009 | 2:42 pm
Elden,
No computer and no stopwatch, but will you make sure you wear a heart rate monitor? You have an incredibly beautiful family who need you!
Good luck in the Leadville.
Susan in Charlotte
Comment by Meredith | 08.13.2009 | 2:45 pm
I have been following you for the last few months since Lance Tweeted about your blog and have been incredibly touched. My prayers have and will be with you and your family.
I am so happy you decided to do Leadville! My husband, friends, and I are coming up from Denver and will be cheering you on as you ride by on Saturday. Win Susan and Win Fatty!
Comment by bubbaseadog | 08.13.2009 | 2:46 pm
whats lance gonna ride do you think youll see him when he passes you go have fun and remember to fight like susan
Comment by stirling | 08.13.2009 | 3:00 pm
RIDE RIDE RIDE….enjoy the thrill, enjoy the scenery, enjoy the exertion. We are all cheering for you….just like Susan.
Comment by laura | 08.13.2009 | 3:26 pm
What an amazing man you are….Leadville will be good for your heart and your fine legs!
Cheering you on from Denver! I know Susan is chering you on too!
Comment by Steve W | 08.13.2009 | 3:32 pm
Have a great time. Give Lance a big smile as you pass him on the mountain!
Give your kids an extra hug before you go even if they say they are fine.
Comment by Jessica | 08.13.2009 | 3:37 pm
Good luck on the race.
Comment by Dave | 08.13.2009 | 3:55 pm
Good luck Fatty!
Comment by DavidV | 08.13.2009 | 3:58 pm
Clean up your garage!
Comment by LidsB2 | 08.13.2009 | 4:11 pm
3 things:
1 – The March 28 pic is truly disturbing.
2 – Having lifted the SingleFly at RAWROD, 18.5 lbs is waaaay off. It’s more like 2.01 lbs.
3 – An immediate email/twitter/web campaign to put Lance in a FatCyclist jersey for Leadville is totally in order.
Giddyup.
FLS
Comment by Paulscarlett | 08.13.2009 | 4:20 pm
Rock on Fatty, go get some!! Ride long ride hard and ride fast! blessings for your and yours.
Comment by Erine | 08.13.2009 | 4:47 pm
You (and yours) ROCK! Hope you and The SingleFly have a great ride!
Comment by justrun | 08.13.2009 | 5:24 pm
Typing out NotSoFatAnymoreCyclist is going to take some getting used to.
As always, cheering for you and your crew. Go! Fight! Win!
Comment by sapie | 08.13.2009 | 5:38 pm
You’re going to WIN Elden.
Comment by Claire | 08.13.2009 | 5:39 pm
Go Fatty!!! Cheering you on from Boston.
Comment by Pink | 08.13.2009 | 5:46 pm
DO YOU HAVE A CLUE HOW SICK I AM OF CRYING FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY? I CRY EVERY SINGLE TIME I READ YOUR BLOG.
SO GO WIN, ALREADY, BUT WATCH YOURSELF. You have to take care of four kids, too.
You’re a wonderful man with a wonderful family. Susan will always be with you all.
Comment by ~tb | 08.13.2009 | 6:35 pm
Ride Angry! Fight Like Susan!!
Comment by Debamundo | 08.13.2009 | 8:06 pm
I am so glad you are doing this. And so glad you are blogging about it. It lets us in on the fun.
Comment by Steph | 08.13.2009 | 8:23 pm
I found your website through another and can only say…Go Go Go! You are an inspiration.
Comment by Dan O | 08.14.2009 | 12:43 am
Awesome – have a good race and ride.
Looking forward to the posts…..
Comment by Greg Hayes | 08.14.2009 | 5:46 am
Good work Fatty, get stuck in!
Comment by Earl | 08.14.2009 | 6:13 am
Fatster, have a super one, you deserve this! Just got back from my own 100 this morning over here in the south of France, where I found myself, go fatty – on a couple of the tougher climbs that I managed to get through. This was of course partly in reference to you, but also to myself – hee hee hee!
Mate, would love if you can get some more gear – shirts, up and running, so that we can spread the word over here in Europe! You, your humour, your humility and of course your history are inpiring many of us! Have a great race, go hard, and who cares where you blow – if you do at all – the crowd will carry you home, and so will the strength of Susan!
Lastly, when you get some more of those shirts, lets, get a competition going of the coolest places, that people are photographed in one of your maillots, maybe you have already done this, but jeez I would of had some great photos from this morning – especially when I stopped and took a photo of a small village called – Le Cun – I stood next to the signpost and formed my own T.
ATB, Earl
Pingback by It’s Just A Ride » Blog Archive » ‘Bout A Week Left Before The Ride | 08.14.2009 | 8:54 am
[...] it’s off to Philly where we will be joined by none other than Fatty his own self, fresh from riding Leadville this weekend. I hope I get to meet him before the ride, because I’m pretty sure that I, in shoes and [...]
Comment by Jon | 08.14.2009 | 10:45 am
Go get’em Fatty! Won’t be a Leadville, but you and the gang will be on the mind during my hill-climb training for the “Hill Climb 542″ http://www.norkarecreation.com/hcinfo.htm Go Fast, Go Big, Go Until You Can’t!!!!
Comment by OneGear1972 | 08.14.2009 | 11:07 am
In that final quarter when you don’t know who you are or where you are the instructions are simple – especially with just one gear.
Just Pedal, Damn It!
Comment by Amber | 08.14.2009 | 12:29 pm
Good luck out there…and have fun. You deserve it!