Tour de Laemmle - 08/21/2016
Tour de Laemmle 2016
Route Overview (by Greg Laemmle) While not awash in obvious landmarks, the Tour de Laemmle takes you on a powerful cultural and historical journey through the heart of the L.A. region. First and foremost, you will get the opportunity to see how so many diverse LA County neighborhoods are connected. El Serreno transitions to Alhambra which transitions to San Gabriel, and so forth. Whether crossing the Arroyo Seco or the Sepulveda Pass, you'll also see how geographical features have shaped the city. While riding on Huntington Drive or historic Route 66, you'll get to see how older roadways and railway right-of-way passages connected communities in the era before the modern interstate. For early morning riders, you'll get to appreciate the beautiful buildings on Wilshire Boulevard as we traverse through mid-town. And for those who join later in the day, you'll get to see how bike paths like the LA River bikeway and the Orange Line Bike Path can provide safe avenues of connectivity for those who choose to get around without a car.
[LAWheelmen] T de L, no vanilla or rocky roads
But sherbert sitting at home.
Wish I could have been on the ice cream ride but had to redeem myself by completing the Tour de Laemmle which I failed last year. Recruiting Mel knowing he will be able to get me through it. Postponed from the original date due to the fire so luck out with the temperature being cool 90’s.
The ride seems simple visiting the 9 Laemmle theatres from Santa Monica to Claremont and back via the San Gabriel and San Fernando Valley with the featured climb of the easy Sepulveda pass. Only 132 miles, slightly more than a 200 K Brevet. Plus 10 rest stops to provide provisions. Make the whole tour rewards you with a pair of commemorative lime green socks and a wooden medal.
But what made the ride really special at least for me is riding much of it with the ride’s organizer and theatre owner.
The free ride was sold out with a couple hundred riders. Rode over on my new Defy after over a month in the shop only to find those damn disc brakes are rubbing. The wheel turns when pedaling so figure a little resistance is good for me. The sound is practically inaudible with traffic noise.
If I knew those disc brakes would be causing so much problems… Picked up my Jamis after having the front gear replaced after being worn out. Have never asked but does anybody else wear out bike parts more than me. He also replaced the front brakes when he replaced them earlier this year. I do use the brakes probably more than most people which now leads me to believe that’s the reason why bicyclists run stops signs. To save on brake pads. Anyway, he goes to show me the new bikes and the company is now going to disc brakes and he suggests I should get one. I did not tell him I am already experiencing them and not happy.
Back to the ride.
It starts at 7, I’m there a quarter after 6 to register. Not much later Mel shows up riding from home. They offer coffee and donuts. And they set up bicycle racks to hang bikes on before the start.
Chief ride marshal ‘Ride time’ Wayne comes up to me to see if I am volunteering. If he asks I probably would have. He knows me from marshalling on the LA River ride with my fully loaded touring bike.
Driving SAG is Tom with his van that carry a lot of bikes, forgot how many, who has helped on LAW’s rides. “Make sure you save a spot for me” I tell him as he laughs.
There are announcements and then the ride begins. In my familiar tradition, let everyone get going before I take off. If there is a tack in the road, less chance of running over it but probably still would.
We are given route sheets but I forgot my clip so stick it in my back pack, plan to hang and follow. With such a big group going east on Santa Monica is no problem on an early Sunday morning. Plus with the many traffic lights, the red would allow the pack to stay together. One of the rider playing alt rock music which I keep close to listen. A nice mellow start with rider calling out hazards and keeping their line.
As it is going to happen, a red light split’s the group. Could have ran it as many did but inbred could not. When the light changes green, go into sprint mode. Along comes a guy on a fixie which I saw three of. Relying on seeing the group ahead, when they disappear let my riding partner take the lead. On Wilshire, we spot them. sweating and panting to regain contact dropping my friend on the incline. And as would happen a red light stops me but the fixed gear bike goes through. Now I’m hitting each red as is the front group while riders from behind have now caught me.
Well eventually we all get back as a group and now going to pay for that waste of energy.
The first stop at 21 miles is in Whittier with water and snacks available and coconut water which I will consume two bottles, thank you. Take a seat to recover after that fast start. Then SAG Tom comes over to me and starts telling the other riders about me. “Better watch out of this dude. He plays cool and quiet but he can flat out ride.” This is very embarrassing as he is remembering me like 15 years ago. Now I have to live up to his words and keep up with the front group. The problem being these are racer types. Who else would be doing a 132 miles ride. Well us Rando types.
Someone says lets go and we take off. The route heads us to the Rio Hondo bike trail which signs have been placed to direct us. Through the event, arrows would point the way in places which they would be needed. Someone has been very busy.
Now on a bike path, the pace is quickened. I’m hanging on in the rear until I could not take it any more, slowed off my draft. With a little climb at the dam, muscle the bike up to latch on the back only to find my legs could not hold on the descent. But the red light at Rosemead held the group to let me back with the group only to get dropped on the San Gabriel River bike trail. A gal falls off and she tells me lets catch up as it is easier to be in a group especially with the headwind. Force myself to chase while she falls back. With confusion at the exit, coupled and roll into the next rest stop. Someone complains that the stated pace would be 15 - 18 mph and we were going 26. Then someone adds that it does say the pace could be faster at times. I’m happy for rest stops.
I’ve thoroughly wetted my skullcap, time to replace it with a towel. There is this new electrolyte drink which was donated which I find no one is using. We look at the instructions which recommends a scoop but none is available so I spill some in the lid, dump it in my bottle. It tasted OK, give it a try. I’ll be the guinea pig, couldn’t make me any worse as it is. To be safe, take four endurolyte tablets. My arms are wet.
As with the last stop, Mel arrives as we’re getting ready to leave. Could wait and ride with him but a reputation has to be met.
Last year this stop did not exist, would have been a welcome relief as this next section did me in. It is not as warm as then but still hotter than preferred.
The group has shrunk as we hammer the rollers which is fine with me. It is when we come to an intersection with the light changing. Even with cars going across waiting, riders continue through the red while I become only one who stops. At this point Greg Laemmle comes up behind, comments riders like that give bicycling a bad reputation. Later when we catch up to them, he has some words about it which makes me think highly about him. Well it is his ride and they mentioned to ride safely and follow the laws of the road.
So we are off the front group again. And here comes the first major climb. It is here called it quits melting under the heat. Plan to be smart, take it easy but give into temptation to give chase seeing the others going slower. Again my ego takes a toll as now I’m struggling in desperation mode. Riders behind are passing me. How embarrassing. But once the grade lessens and descends, catch up to Greg staying in step knowing the next stop is less than a mile away. I can hold on till then.
When we arrive find nobody there. We saw the front group continue on thinking since there is no stop they kept going. Greg checks the time finding we are early meaning we have been going at it at a faster than normal pace. One rider is experiencing cramps. Was going to share my pills but did not which was prudent as I shall need each and every one of those capsules.
Greg calls to find out what happened. A volunteer comes by to tell us the rest stop is up the road. By the time we get there, the front group is preparing to pull out. Again make another mistake jumping in with them. Only 10 miles to the Claremont stop, should have enough fluids to get me there. The saying drink before you get thirsty, it should be drink before then.
It starts with a short climb before Cal Poly and I’m holding it till the group gaps me on the back side descent. A rider goes by me and tells me lets catch up. And of course I get stuck behind a red.
With a slight ascent, I’m pushing it to my advantage dropping my friend in the process. Can see them but can not bridge it. They are stuck at a red, giving what I got to finally catch them only to find that’s all I got as they pull away. Watching them speed into the horizon, slow down to allow riders behind to catch me as I do not have the route sheet in front. But no one does as I’m in between groups, alone on my own. Not sure when the turn is, stop, pull out the cue, try to memorize the streets. Now I’m riding a casual pace to make sure not to go off course. A directional sign points me the right way and arrive at the furthest point east. Not quite the half way point but I’m calling it that.
It’s a court yard with small businesses and the movie theatre there. The faster group have taken up all the seats in the shade.
The first thing to do since a bike shop mechanic is available is to have him check out my brakes which he asks how was I able to ride on them. He adjusted them so now the tires can turn. This should make riding a lot easier. Save on the brake pads.
I’ve gone through all my fluids needing total refill. Again add that electrolyte drink in my bottle a little stronger. And they have pickle juice. It’s to help cramping which the signs reads. Well pickles helped me to finish the 508.
Wrote the story before but will again. After climbing Townes, sweating buckets and having Kermit peeling off my totally sopping drenched jersey for a dry one, the long down hill on the back side I’m practically only using my hands to grip the brakes. (Probably hold the record for the slowest time) When we reach bottom at Stovepipe, we stop to remove all my warm clothing from that cold descent. Sitting on the ground my legs seized up, stiffening to planks, unable to get up. Thinking this is the end of my ride, Mary learning from Lee Mitchell went across the street to the store and brings me dill pickles to eat. I am not fond of them but do as told and what do you know, it works. I’m back on the bike and riding.
So I drink a cup. No one else seems to be trying it. Terrible stuff. My comment is that it tastes like the ocean. With that bad flavor in my mouth, go into the theatre for a Coke along with popcorn. It is all included in the free price. Take an empty chair in the sun to eat. Meanwhile the speedy riders take off. I’m tired. I’m not going with them anymore. 56 miles in four hours (includes the long rest stops and many red lights) is not fast but with the temperature too much for me will go with a more mildly tempo pace. Figure stay with the ride organizer I’ll be safe. Won’t get lost.
This group is preparing to leave when Mel shows up. Seeing me here, he says we have to have a picture. I’m watching the group saddling up while we are getting our photo done. Tell Mel see him at the next stop, take off chasing.
The next stretch is easy as it seems like all down hill. I’m in a small group as we’re cruising. Perhaps it is because my wheels can roll. I’m telling Greg about Randonneuring which he is not familiar with. Now that I think of it, as Randos, the rest stops would be called controls and we would never spend as many minutes losing time on the clock. We can rest on the bike as I was now.
We are exchanging sights along Route 66 till we come up to The Donut Man, spotting the yellow sign a few blocks back. Shockingly not a person in line. This is a rare sight, normally there would be a line along the side. Greg planned to stop and I join him as the others kept moving on. He offers to pay but I should be paying for his as he’s footing the bill for this event. And for the first time, they have their famous strawberry donut. You know I got to have that as did Greg. He took a picture of his.
Here’s a photo of my just dessert. Oh it was good. Except having to stuff it down my face to hurry spending too much time yapping instead of consuming.
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CqZ_JkpUMAApPJJ.jpg
It is a quick few miles to the next stop in Azusa where the others are waiting for the leader. He has gone ahead to take a photo of a sight for a future Laemmle project. Meanwhile I have developed a stomach problem and the toilet is occupied. The group is not in any hurry which allows me to solve my issues and as I exit, Mel comes in as the group is leaving. This shall be the last time I see Mel and sure he was not that far behind me.
A series of mistakes for me will be made in this next portion. First is the heat, did not feel hot though a thermometer read 94. Having consumed plenty at the Claremont stop, did not at this latest which should have after taking a dump. And we get on the San Gabriel River trail and you know what that means, the pace quickens. We drop riders including Greg.
And when we reach the Santa Fe Dam incline, the idiot I be decide to show off and race up it leaving everyone behind. Slow down at the top to let them catch up we take the familiar Longden route.
Somehow now my legs do not feel as spry but keep with the little group at hand. Along the road is another rest stop as a gal holds a sign which I turn in for but the others keeps going. Inside find no one but a guy says there is water. As none of the others have come in here, I exit and give chase.
Then it happen, my right leg cramps up. I jump off the bike. I have the cramp cream from Grand Tour a couple years ago and apply it. Swallow endurolytes and drown it with water. It’s less than 5 miles to the next stop.
Now I’m alone again slowly gingerly climbing. Hopefully somebody will come up from behind to lead me on. A couple of guys do half a mile to the Pasadena Laemmle. But they are not sure where it is on this busy Colorado Blvd. The one guy showing frustration probably from being tired kept yelling to look at a map. The other guy with a computer says it’s further up. With my keen eyes, a block away see the yellow sign and exclaim, it right there which the other two take off for.
I’m thinking what a wonderful tour. We get rest stops inside air conditioned building, with comfortable couches, clean rest rooms, popcorn and soda. But first, have to drink a cup of that delicious pickle juice. Yum. Followed by a cold Coke and they give me a big bag of popcorn which I’d not be able to consume in one sitting. So that I did not eat, put in my back pack.
And there is ice. Will pack both water bottle. This is God sent. So I’m sitting, drinking, munching, waiting for Greg to arrive and go. The group we were with have left leaving me and Greg to ride together.
If I rode by myself would take time to get through the packed traffic on Colorado but I follow him as we weave around cars. So I ask him how Ciclavia affected businesses when the street was closed after seeing all the people on the streets. He tells me that his theatre did not lose any customers.
We will ride over the Colorado bridge which is rare for me, don’t think any LAW ride does that. With some climbing we catch up to a gal who has music playing. On this ride, you can join in at any of the stops with some placed near Metro station. She is starting from Pasadena. She has ability and joins us.
It is only 7 miles to the next stop, Laemmle Lofts which is under construction and was last year which Greg tells me that it takes time to build.
The next stop will be North Hollywood using the Chandler Bike path which I have never been on and if I had my way would rather stay on the street which would be faster.
With this drawing a couple hundred riders, Greg tells me he plans to make it harder so as to lower the number. Which I ask how as I may want to do this ride again. He has a Laemmle in Newhall to add to the tour. “Going to have to start the ride earlier”
By NoHo, riders are requesting on how to get back to the start via train or an easier way across. One gal is stretched out on the ground saying she can not ride any more. Greg assures everyone if they join him, they will able to complete the ride. As the route slip states. Only 27 miles left. You’ve come this far, might as well finish it. My jersey caked with salt and warm expecting to be dragging, but whatever I’ve been doing, I feel pretty good. This is the valley after all, in the middle of August in the hot afternoon.
With a small tired group, they continue the tour across the SFV. Now we go onto the Orange Line bike path. Then it’s onto the Balboa Park bike trails which the arrows helps a lot to point out the way. The park is busy with families so the going is slow which is a preferred pace at this time. Let them lead, I just follow.
The last rest stop before the finish is Encino. Another theatre to cool inside and have a cold Coke. Was saying if I stay too long will not want to leave so I sit outside in the heat to stay acclimated.
We will remain here for some time, whether to psyche up for the climb up Sepulveda or reenergize by resting. Riders behind have caught up.
And finally with a larger group to ride with Greg, we leave.
A pic of me leaving the last rest stop before the finish. Which one is me, obviously the only one who carries the bike worth of stuff on his back. That’s a towel under my helmet. Could squeeze a pitcher of perspiration.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BJZAbFKD3AF/
BTW, the jersey I am wearing is from my old bike club, North County Cycle Club. A couple weeks back while on a Permanent the club comes up behind me. A rider recognizes me, “Is that David Nakai? Have not seen you in 20 years.” Many of the riders are wearing various San Diego racing club jerseys while I have on an old LAW. We’re climbing Del Dios one that I know very well and decide to show them that I have not lost my stuff. Dropping the slower riders, I’m chasing after the lead guys. With the summit just ahead, I simply ran out of fuel, got passed by everyone, watching them all just sail off into the distance thinking they are saying. “That David must not be riding much any more.” That and I’m 25 pounds heavier.
So we come to Sepulveda to climb out of the valley. This is the big one of the day which some would say hardly counts as a climb. So I’m expecting to just fly up this and leave everyone behind. Not quite, more like the reverse. Those riders who were complaining and saying they could not make it in are the ones zipping up the grade. In fact the one guy who was lagging back and was making such a commotion about how to get back has disappeared up the mountain. Meanwhile I’ve dropped to my big ring in back and just trying to keep momentum. Greg is not burning up the road, so I push to get up to him and maintain his pace. He’s using all his gears and spinning while I’m slugging it out in my bigger gears as I was not born with quick twitch muscle. The good thing being since I’ve done this climb so many times knew when it was the last switchback before the tunnel. Once within knew ecstasy is near.
He does not stop to rest at the top, another rider waiting to join him down. Fortunately Greg is not a fast descender and I am able to keep close. Meanwhile a rider we beat up the hill is gliding pass us.
As we come down the mountain, the temperature is rapidly dropping which has me comment that I’ll be needing a jacket. It is feeling cold compared to the valley which has me starting to get congested, I start coughing. Some spinning to generate warmth helps to keep the mucous at bay.
We will enter the VA and across to San Vicente. Take this all the way to the end on Ocean. The other two riders sped away on the gradual descent as I follow behind the leader. A left at Ocean, a left on Arizona and a right on 2nd and the ride is history.
I shake hand with Greg thanking him for having the ride. Then he tells me that it is Karma. It seems that on a LACBC Los Angeles River Ride that I helped fix a flat for his kid and it is time he could pay me back.
I am invited to the festivities inside the theatre but after receiving my awards, have to get home if I want to have daylight. Had enough time and was almost tempted by the looks of the food.
If reading about the ride gets you excited wanting to join in the fun, there will be another next year. Here’s the site.
https://www.facebook.com/tourdelaemmle
Wish I could have been on the ice cream ride but had to redeem myself by completing the Tour de Laemmle which I failed last year. Recruiting Mel knowing he will be able to get me through it. Postponed from the original date due to the fire so luck out with the temperature being cool 90’s.
The ride seems simple visiting the 9 Laemmle theatres from Santa Monica to Claremont and back via the San Gabriel and San Fernando Valley with the featured climb of the easy Sepulveda pass. Only 132 miles, slightly more than a 200 K Brevet. Plus 10 rest stops to provide provisions. Make the whole tour rewards you with a pair of commemorative lime green socks and a wooden medal.
But what made the ride really special at least for me is riding much of it with the ride’s organizer and theatre owner.
The free ride was sold out with a couple hundred riders. Rode over on my new Defy after over a month in the shop only to find those damn disc brakes are rubbing. The wheel turns when pedaling so figure a little resistance is good for me. The sound is practically inaudible with traffic noise.
If I knew those disc brakes would be causing so much problems… Picked up my Jamis after having the front gear replaced after being worn out. Have never asked but does anybody else wear out bike parts more than me. He also replaced the front brakes when he replaced them earlier this year. I do use the brakes probably more than most people which now leads me to believe that’s the reason why bicyclists run stops signs. To save on brake pads. Anyway, he goes to show me the new bikes and the company is now going to disc brakes and he suggests I should get one. I did not tell him I am already experiencing them and not happy.
Back to the ride.
It starts at 7, I’m there a quarter after 6 to register. Not much later Mel shows up riding from home. They offer coffee and donuts. And they set up bicycle racks to hang bikes on before the start.
Chief ride marshal ‘Ride time’ Wayne comes up to me to see if I am volunteering. If he asks I probably would have. He knows me from marshalling on the LA River ride with my fully loaded touring bike.
Driving SAG is Tom with his van that carry a lot of bikes, forgot how many, who has helped on LAW’s rides. “Make sure you save a spot for me” I tell him as he laughs.
There are announcements and then the ride begins. In my familiar tradition, let everyone get going before I take off. If there is a tack in the road, less chance of running over it but probably still would.
We are given route sheets but I forgot my clip so stick it in my back pack, plan to hang and follow. With such a big group going east on Santa Monica is no problem on an early Sunday morning. Plus with the many traffic lights, the red would allow the pack to stay together. One of the rider playing alt rock music which I keep close to listen. A nice mellow start with rider calling out hazards and keeping their line.
As it is going to happen, a red light split’s the group. Could have ran it as many did but inbred could not. When the light changes green, go into sprint mode. Along comes a guy on a fixie which I saw three of. Relying on seeing the group ahead, when they disappear let my riding partner take the lead. On Wilshire, we spot them. sweating and panting to regain contact dropping my friend on the incline. And as would happen a red light stops me but the fixed gear bike goes through. Now I’m hitting each red as is the front group while riders from behind have now caught me.
Well eventually we all get back as a group and now going to pay for that waste of energy.
The first stop at 21 miles is in Whittier with water and snacks available and coconut water which I will consume two bottles, thank you. Take a seat to recover after that fast start. Then SAG Tom comes over to me and starts telling the other riders about me. “Better watch out of this dude. He plays cool and quiet but he can flat out ride.” This is very embarrassing as he is remembering me like 15 years ago. Now I have to live up to his words and keep up with the front group. The problem being these are racer types. Who else would be doing a 132 miles ride. Well us Rando types.
Someone says lets go and we take off. The route heads us to the Rio Hondo bike trail which signs have been placed to direct us. Through the event, arrows would point the way in places which they would be needed. Someone has been very busy.
Now on a bike path, the pace is quickened. I’m hanging on in the rear until I could not take it any more, slowed off my draft. With a little climb at the dam, muscle the bike up to latch on the back only to find my legs could not hold on the descent. But the red light at Rosemead held the group to let me back with the group only to get dropped on the San Gabriel River bike trail. A gal falls off and she tells me lets catch up as it is easier to be in a group especially with the headwind. Force myself to chase while she falls back. With confusion at the exit, coupled and roll into the next rest stop. Someone complains that the stated pace would be 15 - 18 mph and we were going 26. Then someone adds that it does say the pace could be faster at times. I’m happy for rest stops.
I’ve thoroughly wetted my skullcap, time to replace it with a towel. There is this new electrolyte drink which was donated which I find no one is using. We look at the instructions which recommends a scoop but none is available so I spill some in the lid, dump it in my bottle. It tasted OK, give it a try. I’ll be the guinea pig, couldn’t make me any worse as it is. To be safe, take four endurolyte tablets. My arms are wet.
As with the last stop, Mel arrives as we’re getting ready to leave. Could wait and ride with him but a reputation has to be met.
Last year this stop did not exist, would have been a welcome relief as this next section did me in. It is not as warm as then but still hotter than preferred.
The group has shrunk as we hammer the rollers which is fine with me. It is when we come to an intersection with the light changing. Even with cars going across waiting, riders continue through the red while I become only one who stops. At this point Greg Laemmle comes up behind, comments riders like that give bicycling a bad reputation. Later when we catch up to them, he has some words about it which makes me think highly about him. Well it is his ride and they mentioned to ride safely and follow the laws of the road.
So we are off the front group again. And here comes the first major climb. It is here called it quits melting under the heat. Plan to be smart, take it easy but give into temptation to give chase seeing the others going slower. Again my ego takes a toll as now I’m struggling in desperation mode. Riders behind are passing me. How embarrassing. But once the grade lessens and descends, catch up to Greg staying in step knowing the next stop is less than a mile away. I can hold on till then.
When we arrive find nobody there. We saw the front group continue on thinking since there is no stop they kept going. Greg checks the time finding we are early meaning we have been going at it at a faster than normal pace. One rider is experiencing cramps. Was going to share my pills but did not which was prudent as I shall need each and every one of those capsules.
Greg calls to find out what happened. A volunteer comes by to tell us the rest stop is up the road. By the time we get there, the front group is preparing to pull out. Again make another mistake jumping in with them. Only 10 miles to the Claremont stop, should have enough fluids to get me there. The saying drink before you get thirsty, it should be drink before then.
It starts with a short climb before Cal Poly and I’m holding it till the group gaps me on the back side descent. A rider goes by me and tells me lets catch up. And of course I get stuck behind a red.
With a slight ascent, I’m pushing it to my advantage dropping my friend in the process. Can see them but can not bridge it. They are stuck at a red, giving what I got to finally catch them only to find that’s all I got as they pull away. Watching them speed into the horizon, slow down to allow riders behind to catch me as I do not have the route sheet in front. But no one does as I’m in between groups, alone on my own. Not sure when the turn is, stop, pull out the cue, try to memorize the streets. Now I’m riding a casual pace to make sure not to go off course. A directional sign points me the right way and arrive at the furthest point east. Not quite the half way point but I’m calling it that.
It’s a court yard with small businesses and the movie theatre there. The faster group have taken up all the seats in the shade.
The first thing to do since a bike shop mechanic is available is to have him check out my brakes which he asks how was I able to ride on them. He adjusted them so now the tires can turn. This should make riding a lot easier. Save on the brake pads.
I’ve gone through all my fluids needing total refill. Again add that electrolyte drink in my bottle a little stronger. And they have pickle juice. It’s to help cramping which the signs reads. Well pickles helped me to finish the 508.
Wrote the story before but will again. After climbing Townes, sweating buckets and having Kermit peeling off my totally sopping drenched jersey for a dry one, the long down hill on the back side I’m practically only using my hands to grip the brakes. (Probably hold the record for the slowest time) When we reach bottom at Stovepipe, we stop to remove all my warm clothing from that cold descent. Sitting on the ground my legs seized up, stiffening to planks, unable to get up. Thinking this is the end of my ride, Mary learning from Lee Mitchell went across the street to the store and brings me dill pickles to eat. I am not fond of them but do as told and what do you know, it works. I’m back on the bike and riding.
So I drink a cup. No one else seems to be trying it. Terrible stuff. My comment is that it tastes like the ocean. With that bad flavor in my mouth, go into the theatre for a Coke along with popcorn. It is all included in the free price. Take an empty chair in the sun to eat. Meanwhile the speedy riders take off. I’m tired. I’m not going with them anymore. 56 miles in four hours (includes the long rest stops and many red lights) is not fast but with the temperature too much for me will go with a more mildly tempo pace. Figure stay with the ride organizer I’ll be safe. Won’t get lost.
This group is preparing to leave when Mel shows up. Seeing me here, he says we have to have a picture. I’m watching the group saddling up while we are getting our photo done. Tell Mel see him at the next stop, take off chasing.
The next stretch is easy as it seems like all down hill. I’m in a small group as we’re cruising. Perhaps it is because my wheels can roll. I’m telling Greg about Randonneuring which he is not familiar with. Now that I think of it, as Randos, the rest stops would be called controls and we would never spend as many minutes losing time on the clock. We can rest on the bike as I was now.
We are exchanging sights along Route 66 till we come up to The Donut Man, spotting the yellow sign a few blocks back. Shockingly not a person in line. This is a rare sight, normally there would be a line along the side. Greg planned to stop and I join him as the others kept moving on. He offers to pay but I should be paying for his as he’s footing the bill for this event. And for the first time, they have their famous strawberry donut. You know I got to have that as did Greg. He took a picture of his.
Here’s a photo of my just dessert. Oh it was good. Except having to stuff it down my face to hurry spending too much time yapping instead of consuming.
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CqZ_JkpUMAApPJJ.jpg
It is a quick few miles to the next stop in Azusa where the others are waiting for the leader. He has gone ahead to take a photo of a sight for a future Laemmle project. Meanwhile I have developed a stomach problem and the toilet is occupied. The group is not in any hurry which allows me to solve my issues and as I exit, Mel comes in as the group is leaving. This shall be the last time I see Mel and sure he was not that far behind me.
A series of mistakes for me will be made in this next portion. First is the heat, did not feel hot though a thermometer read 94. Having consumed plenty at the Claremont stop, did not at this latest which should have after taking a dump. And we get on the San Gabriel River trail and you know what that means, the pace quickens. We drop riders including Greg.
And when we reach the Santa Fe Dam incline, the idiot I be decide to show off and race up it leaving everyone behind. Slow down at the top to let them catch up we take the familiar Longden route.
Somehow now my legs do not feel as spry but keep with the little group at hand. Along the road is another rest stop as a gal holds a sign which I turn in for but the others keeps going. Inside find no one but a guy says there is water. As none of the others have come in here, I exit and give chase.
Then it happen, my right leg cramps up. I jump off the bike. I have the cramp cream from Grand Tour a couple years ago and apply it. Swallow endurolytes and drown it with water. It’s less than 5 miles to the next stop.
Now I’m alone again slowly gingerly climbing. Hopefully somebody will come up from behind to lead me on. A couple of guys do half a mile to the Pasadena Laemmle. But they are not sure where it is on this busy Colorado Blvd. The one guy showing frustration probably from being tired kept yelling to look at a map. The other guy with a computer says it’s further up. With my keen eyes, a block away see the yellow sign and exclaim, it right there which the other two take off for.
I’m thinking what a wonderful tour. We get rest stops inside air conditioned building, with comfortable couches, clean rest rooms, popcorn and soda. But first, have to drink a cup of that delicious pickle juice. Yum. Followed by a cold Coke and they give me a big bag of popcorn which I’d not be able to consume in one sitting. So that I did not eat, put in my back pack.
And there is ice. Will pack both water bottle. This is God sent. So I’m sitting, drinking, munching, waiting for Greg to arrive and go. The group we were with have left leaving me and Greg to ride together.
If I rode by myself would take time to get through the packed traffic on Colorado but I follow him as we weave around cars. So I ask him how Ciclavia affected businesses when the street was closed after seeing all the people on the streets. He tells me that his theatre did not lose any customers.
We will ride over the Colorado bridge which is rare for me, don’t think any LAW ride does that. With some climbing we catch up to a gal who has music playing. On this ride, you can join in at any of the stops with some placed near Metro station. She is starting from Pasadena. She has ability and joins us.
It is only 7 miles to the next stop, Laemmle Lofts which is under construction and was last year which Greg tells me that it takes time to build.
The next stop will be North Hollywood using the Chandler Bike path which I have never been on and if I had my way would rather stay on the street which would be faster.
With this drawing a couple hundred riders, Greg tells me he plans to make it harder so as to lower the number. Which I ask how as I may want to do this ride again. He has a Laemmle in Newhall to add to the tour. “Going to have to start the ride earlier”
By NoHo, riders are requesting on how to get back to the start via train or an easier way across. One gal is stretched out on the ground saying she can not ride any more. Greg assures everyone if they join him, they will able to complete the ride. As the route slip states. Only 27 miles left. You’ve come this far, might as well finish it. My jersey caked with salt and warm expecting to be dragging, but whatever I’ve been doing, I feel pretty good. This is the valley after all, in the middle of August in the hot afternoon.
With a small tired group, they continue the tour across the SFV. Now we go onto the Orange Line bike path. Then it’s onto the Balboa Park bike trails which the arrows helps a lot to point out the way. The park is busy with families so the going is slow which is a preferred pace at this time. Let them lead, I just follow.
The last rest stop before the finish is Encino. Another theatre to cool inside and have a cold Coke. Was saying if I stay too long will not want to leave so I sit outside in the heat to stay acclimated.
We will remain here for some time, whether to psyche up for the climb up Sepulveda or reenergize by resting. Riders behind have caught up.
And finally with a larger group to ride with Greg, we leave.
A pic of me leaving the last rest stop before the finish. Which one is me, obviously the only one who carries the bike worth of stuff on his back. That’s a towel under my helmet. Could squeeze a pitcher of perspiration.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BJZAbFKD3AF/
BTW, the jersey I am wearing is from my old bike club, North County Cycle Club. A couple weeks back while on a Permanent the club comes up behind me. A rider recognizes me, “Is that David Nakai? Have not seen you in 20 years.” Many of the riders are wearing various San Diego racing club jerseys while I have on an old LAW. We’re climbing Del Dios one that I know very well and decide to show them that I have not lost my stuff. Dropping the slower riders, I’m chasing after the lead guys. With the summit just ahead, I simply ran out of fuel, got passed by everyone, watching them all just sail off into the distance thinking they are saying. “That David must not be riding much any more.” That and I’m 25 pounds heavier.
So we come to Sepulveda to climb out of the valley. This is the big one of the day which some would say hardly counts as a climb. So I’m expecting to just fly up this and leave everyone behind. Not quite, more like the reverse. Those riders who were complaining and saying they could not make it in are the ones zipping up the grade. In fact the one guy who was lagging back and was making such a commotion about how to get back has disappeared up the mountain. Meanwhile I’ve dropped to my big ring in back and just trying to keep momentum. Greg is not burning up the road, so I push to get up to him and maintain his pace. He’s using all his gears and spinning while I’m slugging it out in my bigger gears as I was not born with quick twitch muscle. The good thing being since I’ve done this climb so many times knew when it was the last switchback before the tunnel. Once within knew ecstasy is near.
He does not stop to rest at the top, another rider waiting to join him down. Fortunately Greg is not a fast descender and I am able to keep close. Meanwhile a rider we beat up the hill is gliding pass us.
As we come down the mountain, the temperature is rapidly dropping which has me comment that I’ll be needing a jacket. It is feeling cold compared to the valley which has me starting to get congested, I start coughing. Some spinning to generate warmth helps to keep the mucous at bay.
We will enter the VA and across to San Vicente. Take this all the way to the end on Ocean. The other two riders sped away on the gradual descent as I follow behind the leader. A left at Ocean, a left on Arizona and a right on 2nd and the ride is history.
I shake hand with Greg thanking him for having the ride. Then he tells me that it is Karma. It seems that on a LACBC Los Angeles River Ride that I helped fix a flat for his kid and it is time he could pay me back.
I am invited to the festivities inside the theatre but after receiving my awards, have to get home if I want to have daylight. Had enough time and was almost tempted by the looks of the food.
If reading about the ride gets you excited wanting to join in the fun, there will be another next year. Here’s the site.
https://www.facebook.com/tourdelaemmle
The following year July 23, 2017. My last time doing the ride as it has become very popular as it is free, decided to let someone else have a chance to participate. Mel again rode it.
2018 turns out to be the last for this event.
Hello Mel,
Hope you had an enjoyable ride yesterday. Purple socks, now that will be noticeable. Had planned on taking it easy but with all the signal lights decided to stay with the front group and let them pull me along. The group kind of dwindled till there is eight as they motored through the bike path as I managed to hand on. then came the climb to Mt SAC and I just did not have it in me as they pulled away. We are doing this first leg non stop. I get to Claremont before 11 and while the group is sitting around, I'm back on the bike the first to leave as I got to stop at Donut Man. As I'm leaving Greg arrives, we exchange greetings, last year I rode with him most of the route. The fast riders catch me and I get pulled along again till my donut stop which they keep going. A dozen people in line and no strawberry so I had to settle with peach. Now I'm riding alone and without looking at the cue sheet followed last years route using Longden. when I look to see where I turn then notice I'm off the course. Knowing the roads a bit, head north and back on route and find I'm the second person to the Pasadena stop, the first rider did not go to Claremont. So in the cool theatre I have popcorn and soda and wait. Riders show up wondering how I got here. There is a photo of my bike on the site. Left before the others, it isn't till Burbank a couple of faster riders catch me. I try to stay with them but they go through a red light and leave me behind. In NoHo had to have the half off hotdog, crab meat on a hot dog, fries and all you can drink soda, all for 3.18. What a deal. I tell the riders who have gotten to the stop and they all have to go there. Some riders have left before I start as I ride alone again. Started cramping before the Encino stop so my first taste of that awful pickle juice, last year being hot drank it at every stop. Then a slow climb over the pass and back to comfortable temperature, race to the finish find I am the fourth rider in. Had pizza, still have bicycling to do. As I'm leaving, Greg comes in and in a video, I am seen shaking his hand. BTW, to promote the LAW, gave his wife a Wheelmen jersey since Nancy gave me all these women jerseys
See you on the road,
David.
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