December 2013/2014 Non Contact Hockey League


Tues 17th, (Game #14) 2 Assists
@ 10:45pm, Callingwood Arena Rangers vs. Crusaders (L 6-5) My first assist I won the face off to the point and then Jeff L scored. My second assist I passed it to Bartek J who's shot was stopped and Jeff L got the rebound. This was a really fun game to play in as both teams played good. I felt that when we had the puck in deep we could sustain offensive zone pressure. The turning point was when we were on the power play and they scored a short handed goal to make it the winning goal. First star Jeff L 3G. Second star Javan M 2A aggressive playing on boards. Third star James S 1G around the net all night.

Sat 14th, (Game #13) 2 Goals & 3 Assists
@ 10:15pm, Terwillegar Arena Rangers vs. Voodoo (W 11-8) I missed our last game because Friday 6th I had a kidney infection and also passed a kidney stone and spent eight hours in the hospital and the next couple day's on IV for anti-biotics. My first goal was a rebound from a Dallas H shot. My second goal was a rebound from a Jeff M shot. My first assist I shot it wide and it hit the boards hard and bounced out in front for Javan M to burry it. My second assist I got it over to Jeff M and he had a nice shot. My third assist I won the faceoff in our own end and it went to Dallas H then he went end to end for a sweet goal. If you like goals then you would have liked this game. We out shot them 48 to 32 and I felt as though we played a solid game and even with all the goals both goalies made some good saves. This game felt like an old style 80's game and it was a blast to play in. First star Myself I blocked four shots. Second star Jeff M 1G & 1A hard on the puck. Third star Leonard L first ever goal.

December 2013 Training

Tues 31st, XC Skiing (Classic style) for 1hr 7mins @ Strathcona Wilderness Centre  Average heart rate =148 Max =179, Elevation gain 193 ft. Km's 9

Thur 26th, XC Skiing (Classic style) for 1hr 55mins @ Goldbar Park with parents. Average heart rate =112 Max =155. Elevation gain 419 feet. Km's 6

Sun 22nd, XC Skiing (Classic style) for 1hr 31mins @ Goldbar Park to Goldstick Park. Average heart rate =158 Max =188. Elevation gain 2,229 feet. Km's 11

Sat 21st, XC Skiing (Classic style) for 1hr 4mins @ Goldbar Park to Goldstick Park. Average heart rate =157 Max =187.  Elevation gain 1,010 feet. Km's 7

Wed 4th, XC Skiing (Classic style) for 1hr 9mins @ Goldbar Park. Average heart rate =148 Max =182. Total elevation gain 811 feet. Km's 7

Sun 1st, XC Skiing (Classic style) for 1hr 46mins @ Strathcona Wilderness Centre (1hr was a private lesson) Average heart rate =113 Max =172, Elevation gain 352 ft. Km's 7

November 2013/2014 Non Contact Hockey League


Sat 30th, (Game #12)
@ 10:45pm, Terwillegar Arena Rangers vs. Apple 3.14 (L 5-1) We did have a 1-0 lead early and then it went downhill from there. They had a really good defence and they chipped in on the rush for their attack. We had some good scoring chances but could not get it by their goalie. First star Cam B 1G & lots of chances. Second star Howard C was down a few times to block a shot. Third star Harry A broke up a couple scoring chances and was in position all night.

Thu 21st, (Game #11) 1 Goal
@ 10:45pm, Kenilworth Arena Rangers vs. 3volution (L 4-3) I scored my goal as Harry A took a slap shot from the point and I was standing in front of the net and tipped it in. We got out played really bad in the first period. We played a little bit better in the second period but were trailing 4-1. Then we out played them in the third period scored two to make it close. First star sub Fred S 1G and all over the ice with his speed. Second star myself. Third star sub Jeff L 1G.

Tue 19th, (Game #10) 1 Goal & 2 Assists
@ 10:45pm, Kinsmen Arena Rangers vs. Batmen (L 6-4) My goal was from a cycle play as Javan M passed it back to the point to Harry A who had his shot blocked and I was there to take a shot. My first assist was a two on one play and I saucer passed it over to our sub Fred S who one timed it in. My second assist was when I won the face off clean and straight over to Howard C who blasted the slap shot in. I felt that their whole team could skate good and they put some good pressure on us at times. They had three goals that were just lucky bounces and no chance for Scott I as he was solid between the pipes tonight. First star myself. Second star Jeff M 1G and a great shot. Third star Howard C slid to block a shot at the same time as I did and was a vocal leader on the ice.

Mon 4th, (Game #9)
@ 10:15pm, Tipton Arena Rangers vs. Crusaders (L 5-3) I thought we were evenly matched tonight. Both teams had some good scoring chances and the difference in the game was that they capitalized on theirs. I liked that our Defence chipped in at the offensive zone. First star Bartek J 2G & 1A at the net all night. Second star Alex H 1G & 2A. Third star Cameron B 3A.

November 2013 Training

Wed 27th, XC Skiing (Skate style) for 1hr @ Goldbar Park to Goldstick Park. Average heart rate =151 Max =187. Total elevation gain 531 feet. Kms 7

Sat 9th, Played full equipment pick up ice hockey with Enbridge Oil Kings. 1hr 30mins

Sat 2nd, MTB ride @ Capilano Park to Sun Ridge Ski Hill for 1hr 30mins, Elevation gain 690 ft. Kms 17

October 2013/2014 Non Contact Hockey League


Wed 30th, (Game #8) 2 Goals
@ 10:45pm, Terwillegar Arena Rangers vs. Voodoo (L 3-2) My first goal was a cycle play down low as James S passed it out front to Javan M with two players on him he got the puck to the front of the net and I chipped it in. My second goal was a nice dump in by Harry A and James S got to the puck in the corner and made a hard pass to me in front of the net and I one timed it in. I would say that we lost the game because our first period was slow and sluggish as we played to their level of play and not ours. We had a better second and third period considering we were down 3-0. First star myself. Second star James S 2A good play on the boards. Third star Javan M 1A and solid play.

Sat 26th, (Game #7)
@ 10:45pm, Terwillegar Arena Rangers vs. Revolution (L 4-1) I did not have my lungs tonight. I guess being sick the last eleven days has affected me more than I thought. I made a few nice defensive plays and had three shots. Tonight we played a good first period. The next two periods they were the better team, and a few shifts they kept us hemmed in our zone for long periods of time making it hard to line change. The league moved us to Division #7 for next game. First star Dallas H 1G. Second star Scott I kept the score close with lots of saves. Third star Patrick G good defence.

Thurs 17th, (Game #6)
@ 10:30pm, Oliver Arena Rangers vs. Dark Knights (L 7-0) I did a first as I actually slid along the ice and blocked a shot, I only lost two face offs. I had a really bad cold but really wanted to play. Tonight we got out skated and out played. we were down 4-0 after the first period, now the really positive thing about our team was that we did not roll over, but instead we skated as hard as we could and put out our best effort and made them earn their chances. The Dark Knights put a lot of fore checking pressure on us and their defence liked to pinch. First star Bartek J for aggressive play. Second star Harry A getting the puck out of our zone a lot. Third star Chris R lots of hard skating.

Wed 9th, (Game #5) 1 Goal
@ 10:45pm, Terwillegar Arena Rangers vs. Revo2tion (L 4-3) Javan M passed it up to me and I made a move around the Defence men and all three of their players went to me so took a weak shot on net and scored. I felt that we out played them tonight. We had a 3-2 lead in the third period and had a few defensive mistakes and they capitalized on their chances. #2 on their team took over the game. First star Jason L, 1G lots of chances. Second star myself, I back checked and got the puck away a few times. Third star Rob H, 1G.

Sat 5th, (Game #4) 1 Assist
@ 10:45pm, Terwillegar Arena Rangers vs. Honey Badgers (L 6-4) I was in front of our goalie and they passed it off my skate and then Javan M passed it up to James S who got in alone and scored. This game got away from us as we had a 4-1 lead going into the third period. They put a lot of pressure on us and they sent in their defence to help fore check and created turn overs. We got good goal tending but they just came on really hard at the end. First star Blaise F 2G great game. Second star Cameron B 3A aggressive game. Third star James S 1G and lots of chances.

September 2013/2014 Non Contact Hockey League


Sat 28th, (Game #3)
@ 11:00pm, Terwillegar Arena Rangers vs. Venom (L 4-1) The score does not show how close the game was. At times we had pressure but were unable to score more goals. They seemed to be good on the rush and carry it into our zone. I blocked two shots and one was off the side of the ankle and it was bleeding. Thanks to Martin P for coming out to watch. First star Steven W had the goal. Second star Jared S had some great dekes including a shot off the post. Third star Scott I for keeping the score close.









Myself, James S behind net, Javan M in front of net. Pic by Martin P 






I am trying to win it back to Captain (Harry A) Pic by Martin P






Javan M on the boards, Myself in the middle, James S on the right forming the triple J line.  Pic by Martin P




Sat 21st, (Game #2) 1 Goal & 1 Assist
@ 11:00pm, Terwillegar Arena Rangers vs. Crusaders (W 8-2) My goal was a PPG James S passed it to Javan M and he left it for me so I went around the defence men and got my own rebound. My assist was a cycle play down low to Javan M who passed it to James S for the one time goal. I blocked two shots and also turned the puck over on their first goal. All of our forward lines had cycle time in their zone. Our Defence and goal tending was good. First star James S 2G & 2A. Second star Javan M 4A. Third star myself.

Sat 14th, (Game #1)
@ 11:00pm, Terwillegar Arena Rangers vs. Mustangs (L6-0) They out played us and beat us to a lot of the loose pucks and seemed to be just half a step faster. We played a much better second and third period. They have six players from my team last years Garbage Goals. I had a break away but got stopped. First star Scott I kept us in after the first period. Second star Javan M, he had chances including a break away. Third star Blaise F played hard.

September 2013 Training

Sun 29th, MTB ride @ Terwillegar for 1hr 7mins, Average heart rate =142 max =185, Elevation gain 741 ft. Kms 15

2013 Mountain bike XC & Mountain bike XC Marathon & Road Racing Season Recap


Western National Marathon Series MTB XC results out of one race:

  1. Organ Grinder @ Canmore AB, Jun 9th, = 33rd out of 43 in solo open men, overall 58 out of 82 (58 points)

I was in the 66th spot out of 87 racers that completed one race. Series Standings

USA Pro XCT Mountain Bike XC out of one race:

  1. Hammer Nutrition @ Missoula Montana, Jun 22nd, = 23rd out of 23 in Cat 2 (590 place points)

Alberta Cup series MTB XC results out of four races:

  1. Coulee Crusier @ Lethbridge, May 4th, = 24th out of 24 in Sport
  2. Iron Maiden @ Canmore, June 8th, = 46th out of 51 in Sport
  3. Perogy Provincials @ Edmonton, July 7th, = 21st out of 22 in Sport
  4. River Raid @ Devon, Aug 25th, = 19th out of 22 in Sport

Alberta Cup series Road results out of two races:

  1. Pigeon Lake RR @ Pigeon Lake, May 26th, = DNF in Cat 5 (road got closed due to crash)
  2. Provincials ITT @ Miquelon Lake, Aug 17th, = 17th out of 18 in Cat 5


This was my fourth season of racing. I did one Fat Tire Tuesday MTB XC race. I volunteered for 4 Tuesday night Cyclo Cross races put on by my club United Cycle, 1 Fat Tire Tuesday MTB XC race put on By Hardcore Bikes and 1 ABA Cyclo Cross race put on by Red Bike.  I went a total of 1,345 km's training and racing on the road and trails.

River Raid MTB XC Race 2013 @ Devon (Alberta Cup) #4

Sunday Aug 25th, I finished 19th out of 22 in Sport  Results. It took me 1 hr & 10 mins. It was two laps and a total of 16 km's long. The total Elevation gain was 1,227 feet. My average heart rate was 189 bpm and max was 204 bpm. I had one of my fastest starts ever and it only lasted for the first six kms of the race, then I faded a bit for the next six kms and then the final four kms I had my original pace from the start. I tried this tactic to see if I could hold the pace. The course had a lot of wide open spots to sprint and test your fitness level, mixed with some tricky steep climbs, tight switch back climbs and two technical decents. I also had an injury at the start on this month come back a bit in my left hamstring as it was tight and it pulled on my fibula and I felt it on lap two. The temperature was 25 deg C. A huge thanks to all the volunteers and Devon Bicycle Association and Evan W, Stew H for putting on the race.

ITT Provincial Championships Race 2013 @ Miquelon Lake (Alberta Cup) #2

Saturday Aug 17th, I finished 17th out of 18 in Cat 5  Results. It took me 56 mins & 53 seconds. It was 30 km's long. The total Elevation gain was 364 feet. My average heart rate was 194 bpm and max was 203 bpm. My average cadence was 93 rpm and max was 141 rpm. My average speed was 32 Km's per hour. We road 5 km's to get there so it was a good warm up and then 5 km's to get back to the truck so a good cool down ride, and an extra 10 km's on the day. This was my first ever Alberta Cup level Individual Time Trial race. On the first half of the race we were in a slight head wind and I felt it a bit as I had to work really hard to maintain my speed, then on the turn around the wind was behind me and I had picked up the pace. My effort level was at my max threshold from the start to the finish. My goal was to go under one hour and to have a fast start and I accomplished both of those. I am really glad that I decided to do this race. I had a fun time, even if I was suffering, LOL. The temperature was 23 deg C. A huge thanks to all the volunteers and Juventus for putting on the race.








Pic by Paul Crocombe








 

August 2013 Training

Sat 31st, Ice Hockey scrimmage with Rangers for 1hr 30mins

Sat 24th, MTB ride @ Devon pre lap of River Raid course for 1hr, Average heart rate =164 max =197, Elevation gain 692 ft. Kms 10

Sat 10th, Road group ride @ Wye school to McFadden lake for 2hrs 13mins, Average heart rate =145 max =182. Total elevation gain 853 ft. Kms 60

Fri 9th, MTB ride @ Devon for 2hrs 1min, Average heart rate =142 max =186, Elevation gain 1,480 ft. Kms 25

Sun 4th, MTB ride @ Jasper to Patricia Lake for 1hr 41mins, Average heart rate =150 max =187, Elevation gain 1,555 ft. Kms 21

Sat 3rd, MTB ride @ Hinton Nordic Centre for 1hr 43mins & it rained hard, Average heart rate =155 max =191, Elevation gain 2,024 ft. Kms 17

Fri 2nd, MTB ride @ Hinton Nordic Centre for 2hrs 36mins, Average heart rate =158 max =191, Elevation gain 2,776 ft. Kms 32

Perogy Provincials MTB XC Race 2013 @ SunRidge Ski Hill (Alberta Cup) #3

Sunday July 7th, I finished 21st out of 22 in Sport Men Results It was three laps and 19 km's in total. It took me 1hr 54mins. My Average heart rate was 179 and max was 195. The total elevation gain was 2,287 feet. Today I did a small light spin in an easy gear for warm up. The mass start of today's race with all the category's, I was not ready for as I eased into the last place spot, it was from there I moved up a few spots (most in other category's) as I got more comfortable. I climbed up all the climbs today except two short steep ones in one spot of the climb, my highlight of my climbing was, I was even with Olympian Tara W on the big wide dirt hill and I got up ahead of her before the crest and then she passed me just before the top by two seconds according to my parents who took pics at the top. The last lap with about four km's to go it started to rain hard and I was sliding around and lost some time that I had gained on the climbing. I love the 29er on this course, I was clipped in and made it up climbs I have never done before. The temperature was 22 deg C. I want to say a big thanks to my parents for coming out to support me today & Kirk H and pedal head for putting on the race & all the volunteers for their help.








Big Climb Lap #2
 






Look at that Horse Power, LOL






 
Big climb Lap#3 almost beat Olympian Tara Whitten to top


 






Suffer and Happy face, Pic by Paul C






Coming to the line a bit muddy, and happy to finish
 
 

July 2013 Training

Wed 31st, Road ride @ Colchester Hall for 1hr 25mins, Average heart rate =152 max =184. Total elevation gain 463 ft. Kms 40

Sat 27th, Road group ride @ Wye school for 2hrs 11mins, Average heart rate =164 max =194. Total elevation gain 1,096 ft. Kms 63

Sun 21st, Road ride @ Colchester Hall to Twin Island Lake for 1hr 28mins, Average heart rate =149 max =172. Total elevation gain 509 ft. Kms 40

Wed 17th, MTB ride @ Walterdale Park to Quesnell Bridge for 2hrs 8mins, Average heart rate =144 max =194, Elevation gain 1,211 ft. Kms 30

Tues 16th, Road ride @ Colchester Hall to Beaumont for 1hr 18mins, Average heart rate =146 max =183. Total elevation gain 427 ft. Kms 36

Sun 14th, MTB ride @ Millwoods Ravine for 1hr 8mins. Average heart rate =111 max =158, Total elevation gain 351 ft. Kms 20

Sat 13th, Road group ride @ Wye school to Cooking lake for 2hrs 14mins, Average heart rate =147 max =194. Total elevation gain 814 ft. Kms 60

Wed 10th, MTB inter club group ride @ UC to Capilano Bridge for 1hr 55mins. Average heart rate =163 max =196, Elevation 1,257 ft. Kms 25

Sat 6th, MTB ride pre lap Perogy Provincials course @ SunRidge Ski Hill for 1hr. Average heart rate =156 max =192, Total elevation gain 801 ft. Kms 10

Wed 3rd, Road ride @ Colchester Hall for 1hr 43mins, Average heart rate =134 max =177. Total elevation gain 522 ft. Kms 42

Hammer Nutrition Missoula MTB XC Race 2013 @ Montana (USA Pro XCT) #1

Saturday June 22nd, I finished 23rd place out of 23 in Cat 2 (that's Canada's Sport) results. It took me 1hr 40mins. It was three laps long for a total of 14 Kms. The total Elevation gain was 2,434 feet. I earned 590 place points. One word to describe the course would be ''wow'' nothing like that at home. This is my fourth season of racing and this was the most difficult XC race I have done thus far. I could take a little bit of Canmore and Hinton to compare some of it. I remember hearing the announcer saying this course will test your climbing ability, your fitness, and your technical riding skills, he also said if your not good in one area you won't do well, (me not great at technical) I am glad they let me finish the race (as I was under one minute before the time cut for lap #2) to post a time, It let me feel that proud moment of finishing the race. The winner was done in under an hour and I have to say the local Montana racers have the comfort level on this course and are used to breathing at this elevation, it was impressive to watch and there were some accomplished road racers in the field. It felt like the racers were faster than Canada's sport field. I had a really good second lap and pulled in more than six minutes compared to my first lap. I stayed in my clips for most of the race except for one really steep switch back with a log drop so I un clipped and bounced off the trail and wiped out sliding down the mountain on lap two, thank fully I was ok, just shook up. The race was held at Marshall Mountain and the temperature was 22 deg C. A huge thanks to USA Cycling and all the volunteers for putting on the race. There was a BBQ after the Men Elite race at 6:00pm with hot dogs, pork, ribs and beer and pop. Then a live band was on stage, it was a great way to celebrate the day. I got a chance to say hello to Geoff K and Derek Z the Canadian pro racers of Scott racing team, also really cool people. 



 




Mass start, pic by Martin P






Down hill section, pic by Martin P





The ramp, pic by Martin P






The ramp, pic by Martin P






Rolling along, pic by Martin P






Pic by Martin P






Pic by Martin P






Suffer face & wishing I could use the chair lift, LOL, pic by Martin P







Pic by Martin P






Suffer face & wishing I could use the chair lift, LOL, pic by Martin P






Pic by Martin P

Organ Grinder MTB XC Marathon Race 2013 @ Canmore (Western National Marathon series) #1

Sunday June 9th, I finished 33rd place out of 43 in Solo Open Men results , Overall I was 58 out of 82 for solo open and master open men category. It took me 4hrs 13mins, (Lap1= 1hr 14mins) (Lap2= 1hr 26mins) (Lap3= 1hr 32mins) I went a total of 36 Kms. Total elevation gain 3,678 Feet. My average heart rate was 165 and max was 190. I earned 58 points in the Western National Marathon series. I had one hour left on the clock but I knew I could not complete another lap in that time. About forty minutes into the race it started to rain light and then a bit harder, it remained this way for most of the race, with about a thirty minute period with sun. The rocks and roots were wet and slick. I stayed in my clips for the bulk of the race exept for the four really technical descents, or I road it part of the way then un clipped. I am very proud I did not quit today with the tough riding conditions, it would have been easy to do so or go put my flat pedals back on. I decided to grind it out and I was enjoying myself and learned alot about my determination. I had a good day. This was my second ever MTB Marathon. The race was held at the Canmore Nordic Centre and the temperature was 9 deg C and raining. A huge thanks to Cyclemeisters for putting on the race and the BBQ chicken sausage hotdog was great and all the volunteers for staying in the rain.





Tight switch back section, pic by Jordan Bryden




Tight switch back section, pic by Jordan Bryden



 
 
 
Mountains in the back ground, pic by Jordan Bryden





Pump track, pic by Jordan Bryden







Pump track, pic by Jordan Bryden


Iron Maiden MTB XC Race 2013 @ Canmore (Alberta Cup) #2

Saturday June 8th, I finished 46th place out of 51 in Sport results. It took me 1hr 34mins. It was three laps long for a total of 18 Kms. The total Elevation gain was 1,634 feet. My average heart rate was 185 and max was 196. I stayed in my clips for most of the race except for one really small steep up hill section and the (three down arrow section after that, I un clipped and still flipped over the handle bars on my first crash) and the (tight switch back section beside the organ donor, I tried it clipped in and crashed) I was ok after both crashes. I road the technical Devonian Drop and many other tight hard sections. The race was held at the Canmore Nordic Centre and the temperature was 17 deg C. A huge thanks to Spin Sisters and all the volunteers for putting on the race, and the BBQ burgers after were great.

June 2013 Training

Sun 30th, Road ride @ Colchester Hall for 2hrs 26mins, Average heart rate =156 max =187. Total elevation gain 886 ft. Kms 61

Mon 24th, MTB ride up Marshall Mountain in Missoula Montana for 2hrs 1min. Average heart rate =165 max =199, Total elevation gain 2,428 ft. Kms 20

Fri 21st, MTB ride pre lap Hammer Nutrition Missoula race course in Montana for 1hr 6mins. Average heart rate =153 max =189, Total elevation gain 1,115 ft. Kms 9

Mon 10th, MTB ride @ Canmore to Spray Lakes for 1hr 15mins. Average heart rate =164 max =181, Total elevation gain 1,601 ft. Kms 17

Video of me as Uncle Buck drives my truck and records, edited by James S (2 mins)

Tues 4th, MTB ride @ Millwoods Ravine for 1hr 30mins. Average heart rate =114 max =157, Total elevation gain 535 ft. Kms 21

Sat 1st, Road ride @ Colchester Hall to Beaumont area for 2hrs 36mins, Average heart rate =141 max =162. Total elevation gain 666 ft. Kms 62

Pigeon Lake Road Race 2013 (Alberta Cup) #1

Sunday May 26th, I did not finish in Cat 5. It took me 2hrs 56mins. I ended up going 80Kms because I was re routed, it was originally 63kms. I got lots of good training in so it worked out well. The total Elevation gain was 1,949 feet. My average heart rate was 174 and max 195 was. This was my first ever Alberta Cup level road race. I had been getting over a really bad sinus infection the past ten days, and felt good today. I lasted about 6kms in the main peleton and it was a big one with over 60 racers all in one huge pack. My friend and teammate Stew H was up the road so I caught up to him and from there on in we road together. I went ahead and pulled us up the hills and then he went ahead to pull me down the hills. It seemed to work really well. On our first lap we passed a bad crash and had to go really slow. On the second lap and at our 55kms mark we had to stop at the place of the bad crash. The race orginizers had to cancel the remainder of the race because they closed the road so they can get to the injured riders, I hope those injured to a good recovery. The temperature was 20 deg C. A huge thanks to all the volunteers and ERTC for putting on the race, the BBQ burgers at the end were fantastic.

Fat Tire MTB XC Race 2013 #1

Tuesday May 21st, @ Sun Ridge ski hill, I finished 4th out of 7  Results and did three laps. It was 10 kms and took me 48 mins. My average heart rate=178 Max=194. Total elevation gain 748 ft. It was 22 deg C. I was not feeling great as I have a sinus/chest infection, it was good to sweat it out, made me feel better. Thank you Sheldon S for cheering me on and providing the great video.Thanks to the guys @ Kokanee Race team Redbike and Hardcore Bikes for putting on the race.

Highlight Video from the race (3min) I am in the video at the 1:01 mark for a few seconds ripping by, LOL.

Coulee Crusier MTB XC Race 2013 @ Lethbridge (Alberta Cup) #1

Saturday May 4th, I finished 24th place out of 24 in Sport results. It took me 1hr 30mins. It was three laps long for a total of 21 Kms. The total Elevation gain was 1,604 feet. My average heart rate was 178 and max was 195. The course was a bit different this year as they added some berms and small rollers. I had been getting over the Flu/Laryngitis over the last two weeks, this is no excuse for my performance as also my legs cramped up at the finish line. I stayed in my clips for most of the race except for the second bridge over the creek and the slight up hill just after the long decent as if I fell it was a big drop to the left and into the creek. The temperature was 22 deg C. A huge thanks to Kevin N and headwinds & bert and macs source for sports and all the volunteers for putting on the race. After the race there was a learn to race clinic from 2011 National Elite MTB XC champion Matt Hadley.





Checking out the new berms pre race, pic by Stew H
 

 
 
Staying clipped in, looking ahead on the course.
 
 
 

Myself and Matt Hadley after his race clinic

May 2013 Training

Thur 30th, Road ride @ Colchester Hall for 1hr. Average heart rate =148 max =176, Total elevation gain 328 feet. kms 26. First ride on my new Trek Domane 4.5 full Carbon bike I bought from United Cycle It rides smooth, its fast, turns good, climbs great and its lite.

Wed 22nd, MTB group ride @ Queen Elizabeth to Mackinnon Ravine for 2hrs 25mins. Average heart rate =136 max =186, Elevation 1,375 ft. Kms 26

Sun 12th, MTB ride with parents @ Terwillegar to Hawrelak Park for 1hr 30mins. Average heart rate =124 max =180, Elevation 689 ft. Kms 21

Sat 11th, MTB ride @ Terwillegar to Walterdale park for 2hrs 30mins. Average heart rate =156 max =191, Total elevation gain 1,414 ft. Kms 35

Thu 9th , MTB ride @ Terwillegar Park for 1hr 34mins. Average heart rate =150 max =194, Total elevation gain 1,017 ft. Kms 20 Weight 158

Wed 8th, MTB group ride @ Queen Elizabeth to Mill Creek Ravine for 1hr 50mins. Average heart rate =141 max =178, Elevation 919 ft. Kms 16

Fri 3rd, MTB ride Pre lap Coulee Cruiser race course in Lethbridge for 38mins. Average heart rate =161 max =188, Total elevation gain 525 ft. Kms 7

Wed 1st , MTB ride @ Millwoods Ravine for 1hr 18mins. Average heart rate =129 max =172, Total elevation gain 440 ft. Kms 17

2012/2013 Non Contact Hockey League Season Recap

This was my fifth consecutive season playing in an organized men's league and first in the NCHL, first with the Garbage Goals. We were in division #6/7. I played 26/30 games and had 21 Goals 13 Assists 34 Points and was seventh in division scoring. I played 3/4 Playoff games and had 1 Goal 6 Assists 7 Points and was second in division scoring. We finished with 20W 8L 2OTL 42PTS that put us in first place. We had a bye in the first round of the playoffs, won the second round elimination game, then won 2 of 3 vs the Crusaders to win it all. The team played in Calgary for provincials and lost, I did not play as I was MTB XC racing in Lethbridge. This was a close nit team, with varying skill levels and as the season went along we just seemed to gel as a team, and the proof was the championship series, The Crusaders have better individual players than us and on paper should beat us, we relied on strong goal tending and timely goals. It was a fun season playing for the Garbage Goals.






Back row LtoR: Nick D, Seth W, Scott C, Paul R, Carl T, John L, Dennis P, Me
Front row LtoR: Tanner J, Vince H, Mike H, Geoff C, Rodel S
On the ice Our cup we won.

NCHL 2012/13 (Playoff Game #3) 1 Goal & 3 Assists

Sunday Apr 28th, @ 8:00, Kenilworth Arena Garbage Goals vs. Crusaders (W 6-5) My goal was from a perfect pass from Scott C. My first assist I passed it to Nick D who made a perfect shot. My second assist I kept the puck alive, shot it and Scott C got the rebound in. My third assist I got it over to Scott C who scored. I was hurting bad getting over this Flu/Laryngitis virus I have, but I wanted to win so bad and left my heart out on the ice tonight, along with my whole team. Both teams played their best and there was lead changes in the first two periods and a nice goal by Seth W. The Crusaders pulled ahead 5-3 on a sweet goal by #17 with five minutes left in the third period. We battled back and tied it up on the strength of Scott C's goals. With just 43 seconds left in the game, I scored the biggest goal of (my young hockey career LOL) I yelled with joy and skated to centre ice celebrating. That proved to be the game winning goal and we won the NCHL division #6 championship. Wow what a game and just like all season long we never gave up. First star Scott C 3G & 1A. Second star myself I was over 60% in the face offs and blocked three shots. Third star Mike H with the glove save at the end. The whole team get stars tonight as it took us all to win it. We lost Alex L to penalty infractions, so Scott C and myself double shift for the final two periods. Thank you Wendy W for the great pics and Howard C one of my best friends for coming out to watch.  





Strong in the face off circle.


Playing a 200 foot game with a hard back check, along with my team mates.






In full flight, Are my skates on fire LOL





Scott C getting it over to me.





Just scored the game winning goal with 43 seconds left. 



So happy with the goal, and so Tired.



Division #6 Champions NCHL

NCHL 2012/13 (Playoff Game #2) 2 Assists

Saturday Apr 27th, @ 10:30, Terwillegar Arena Garbage Goals vs. Crusaders (L 5-6 s/o) My assists, I got the puck back to Alex L and he scored. I am getting over a Flu/Laryngitis and played my heart out, I blocked eight shots and have bruises to prove it. I had two chances in the shoot out, first one hit the post, second one with the game on my stick hit the side of the net. The game was a crazy back and forth one with momentum swings. We had the lead in the third period and they scored with a minute and a half left. Myself and Dennis P double shifted as the two centre men. First star Alex L 2G. Second star Dennis P 2G & 1A. Third star myself. Fourth star Rodel S 1G.

NCHL 2012/13 (Playoff Game #1) 1 Assist

Sunday Apr 14th, @ 8:45, Kinsmen Arena Garbage Goals vs. Revolution (W 5-1) My assist I went behind the net ahead of the defender and walked out in front and passed it over to Scott C. It was close in the first period, big saves by Mike H kept us calm and then in the second & third period we started to take over the game. First star Rodel S 2G. Second star Scott C 2G. Third star Tanner J 2A. The other team has Michelle L, and I went to high school with her.

April 2013 Training

Thursday 18th, Road ride @ Colchester Hall to Boag Lake for 1hr 25mins. Average heart rate =141 max =173, Total elevation gain 440 feet. kms 33

Wednesday 17th, Road ride @ Colchester Hall for 1hr 15mins. Average heart rate =132 max =157, Total elevation gain 509 feet. kms 27

Friday 12th, Road ride @ Colchester Hall to Beaumont for 1hr 41mins, Total elevation gain 630 feet. Kms 40

Tuesday 9th, Road ride @ Colchester Hall for 1hr 9mins. Average heart rate =133 max =170, Total elevation gain 404 feet. kms 25

Sunday 7th, Spin #5 @ home for 1hr, Average heart rate =153 max =181, kms 23

Wednesday 3rd, Road ride @ Colchester Hall for 1hr 5mins. Kms 24

Tuesday 2nd, Road ride @ Colchester Hall for 1hr, Total elevation gain 374 feet. Kms 21

NCHL 2012/13 (Game #26) 3 Goals & 1 Assist

Sunday Mar 31st, @ 9:30pm, Terwillegar Arena Garbage Goals vs. Crusaders (W 7-6) My first goal was on a rebound I was in front of the net and jammed it between the legs of the goalie. My second goal I was passing it from behind the net and it hit the goalie's skate and in. My hat trick goal I tipped it in on the PP off a hard shot from Scott C. My assist I passed it to Matt M from behind the net. We were down 6-3 part way in the third period and scored four un answered goals. I give huge credit to Dennis P for being a true teammate as we had a two man advantage and it was his turn on the ice and instead he skipped his turn and let me on and I scored and was on for both PP goals, Thanks man I was that same player for four years when I was playing in AMHL. First star Myself. Second star Scott C 2G & 1A. Third star Matt M 2G & 2A.

2012/2013 Cross Country Ski Racing Season Recap


Alberta Cup Series XC Ski results out of one race:

  1. Groundhog Grunt @ Edmonton AB, Feb 2nd = 2nd out of 2 in Masters Men 1&2 (22 points)

I finished with 22 Alberta Cup points and was ranked 8th out of 9 in Masters Men 1&2 Alberta Cup Series Points

Alberta Loppet Race Series XC Ski results out of two races:

  1. Athabasca Loppet @ Athabasca AB, Jan 19th = 8th out of 8 in Men 40 & under
  2. Troll In The Park Loppet @ Edmonton AB, Jan 1st = 23rd out of 25 in Trolls 1994 & earlier


This was my first ever season of XC Ski racing and I have only started skiing in January 2012 and have only had one lesson. All three of these were skate style. I struggled alot this year with the skiing however I learnt alot with my ability just by doing it and competing. I gradually got better and had alot of fun learning. Why did I start racing when I already do MTB XC racing and play ice hockey in a mens league, well I say I wanted to for two reasons instead of doing so much spinning indoors on the bike I love being out doors in the trails breathing in fresh air and also so I could challenge my winter training to make sure I am not slacking off the XC Ski races make my training be consitant and then I can see where my fitness and race ready is at. I met some really great people and really love the sport as it is similar to MTB racing. I raced with Edmonton Nordic Ski Club.

NCHL 2012/13 (Game #25) 1 Goal

Wednesday Mar 27th, @ 6:30, Terwillegar Arena Garbage Goals vs. Apple 3.14 (W 4-2) I scored my goal off a nice pass from Nick D finding me in centre ice and I skated in one on two Defence men and I shot it off one of them and the puck fluttered in. I feel as if we out played them however they battled hard to come back. First star Vince H 1G. Second star Mark J 1G. Third star Nick D 1A and strong play along the boards.

NCHL 2012/13 (Game #24)

Monday Mar 11th, @ 10:30, Tipton Arena Garbage Goals vs. Rangers (W 3-0) All of our forward lines had chances to score and played hard. Our Defence was solid. First star sub goalie with the shut out. Second star John L 1G. Third star Rodel S 1A. My friend James S was out of the Ranger line up with an injured knee.

NCHL 2012/13 (Game #23) 1 Goal

Saturday Mar 2nd, @ 10:00pm, Tipton Arena Garbage Goals vs. Crusaders (W 8-3) I got my goal off a scramble in front of the net. We played a strong game and out played the Crusaders. We will forget the own goal by Paul R as it was an honest mistake, great shot just the wrong net. First star Andy (sub) 3G & 1A and what a display of shooting. Second star Scott C 2G & 2A rock solid game. Third star Dennis P 2A & 1Goal on a huge slap shot from the blue line the goalie buckled and it went five hole, and this performance was done with his wife and kids at the game.

March 2013 Training


Sat 23rd, XC Skiing #17 for 1hr @ Goldbar Park. Average heart rate =158 Max =186. Total elevation gain 1,086 feet. Kms 7

Sun 17th, XC Skiing #16 for 1hr 51mins @ Canmore Nordic Centre w/ parents. Average heart rate =158 Max =187. Total elevation gain 1,250 feet. Kms 12

Sat 9th, XC Skiing #15 for 1hr 5mins @ Strathcona Wilderness Centre. Average heart rate =164 Max =186. Total elevation gain 676 feet. Kms 11

NCHL 2012/13 (Game #22) 1 Goal

Sunday Feb 24th, @ 10:30, Terwillegar Arena Garbage Goals vs. Apple 3.14 (W 2-1) My goal was the game winner, I won the offensive zone face off right to Kellen S then he passed it back to me and I shovelled it in on the my own rebound. We played a great game and had some really good chances to score more goals and their goalie was great, and when they came the other way our sub goalie Mike W was there. First star myself. Second star Alex L 1G. Third star whole team.

NCHL 2012/13 (Game #21) 2 Assists

Tuesday Feb 19th, @ 10:30, Westwood Arena Garbage Goals vs. Revolution (W 4-2) My first assist was on the PP and I got it back to the point where Geoff C shot was tipped in from Rodel S. My second assist was when I won the face off and it went to Alex L and he passed it to Scott C where he put it in the empty net for his hat trick. We were down two nothing early but kept on plugging away and Mike H kept us in with great goal tending. First star Scott C 3G. Second star Myself as I also blocked a couple shots and only lost one face off. Third star Rodel S 1G. The other team has Michelle L, and I went to high school with her.

NCHL 2012/13 (Game #20)

Thursday Feb 7th, @ 10:45, Russ Barnes Arena Garbage Goals vs. Rangers (L 4-1) This was my worst game I played this year, I didn't pass when I should have and I took a dumb penalty and they scored on the PP. The Rangers were the better team tonight and they controlled the play down low in our zone most of the game. First stars are Alex L 1G and stellar defence. Mike H our goalie gave us a chance to win with his goal tending. The other team has my best friend James S and he got a goal.

Groundhog Grunt XC Skiing Race 2013 @ Goldstick Park (Alberta Cup) #1

Saturday February 2nd, I finished 2nd place out of 2 in Masters Men 1&2 (Age 30-39) and that earned me a silver medal and 22 Alberta Cup points, overall I was 11th/11 in Masters Men 1-6 (Age 30-59)  Results  It took me 1hr 34mins and was three laps for a total of 15 kms long. Average heart rate =186 Max =199. The total elevation gain was 1,299 feet. My average speed was 9 km/h. Today's race was skate/freestyle. This was a very tough course with lots of rolling hills. We started from up top at Goldstick park and skied down to Goldbar park and then up the big hill, I will call the lung & leg buster to the lap/finish area. I had a hard time to finish but I dug deep when I knew my body was done and I just was going to do anything to finish. I am still a raw rookie in XC Skiing so I am really happy and almost got to my goal of 1hr 30mins. The temperature was -3 deg c and snowing so there was fresh snow on the course.

A huge thanks to Edmonton Nordic and all the volunteers for putting on the race.

February 2013 Training

Saturday 23rd, XC Skiing #14 for 1hr 14mins @ Strathcona Wilderness Centre. Average heart rate =159 Max =195. Total elevation gain 758 feet. Kms 10

Monday 18th, XC Skiing #13 for 1hr @ Goldbar to Goldstick park. Average heart rate =164 Max =187. Total elevation gain 614 feet. Kms 8

Thursday 14th, Spin #4 @ home for 1hr 20mins, Average heart rate =115 max =151, kms 27. Current weight =163 pounds

Sunday 10th, Spin #3 @ home for 1 hour, Average heart rate =155 max =181, kms 21

Saturday 9th, XC Skiing #12 for 1hr @ Goldbar to Goldstick park. Average heart rate =154 Max =182. Total elevation gain 682 feet. Kms 8

NCHL 2012/13 (Game #19) 1 Goal 2 Assists

Sunday Jan 27th, @ 10:30, Terwillegar Arena Garbage Goals vs. Apple 3.14 (W 5-3) My goal was from a shot from Geoff C from the point and I got the rebound. My first assist was a pass from behind the net to our sub defence men. My second assist was a shot then Vince H got the rebound. First stars Myself as I also had five blocked shots including coming back to break up a breakaway and Scott C 2G & 1A. Second stars Vince H 1G and Rodel S 1A. It was great to see all the forwards coming back to help out the defence and those are things that help win games.

Athabasca XC Skiing Race 2013 @ Athabasca (Alberta Loppet Race Series) #2

Saturday January 19th, I finished 8th place out of 8  Results , It took me 58mins & 56sec. I did skate style. I was in the men 40 & under category. It was one lap and 10 Kms long. I lost two minutes when I wiped out into a snow bank after a downhill section, I had to take my ski's off to get out. The race was held 150kms north of Edmonton @ the Athabasca Muskeg Creek Trails, and it had some big hills to climb up mixed with long flat stretches, before you enter the valley again. Temperature was -19 deg c and was snowing.

Thank you to Athabasca Nordic, Henrik Asfeldt ,and all the volunteers for helping put on a great event, the best part was the chili. Well worth the drive. Pics taken by Martin P.




Pure power climbing up this hill



Pure power climbing up this hill



Pure power climbing up this hill



























It was cold brrrrr, I was pretty warm and was sweating






NCHL 2012/13 (Game #18)

Thursday Jan 17th, @ 10:45, Confederation Arena Garbage Goals vs. Revolution (L 4-3 S/O) We had the lead 3-1 with four minutes to go and they came back to tie it up with twelve seconds left. We went to the shoot out, Myself and Scott C scored, but they scored three times to win it. We get one point. First star Scott C 2G. Second star Kellen S 1G & 1A and solid Defence. Third star Nick D 1A. The other team has Michelle L, and I went to high school with her, she had 2A.

NCHL 2012/13 (Game #17)

Sunday Jan 13th, @ 10:30 Westwood arena Garbage Goals vs. Revolution 2 (L 3-1) We gave it our all on this night but were out played. First star to our sub goalie for keeping us in there, Second star Alex L with the goal. With six minutes left in the third period their forward crashed hard into the boards and was taken off by an ambulance, I hope he is ok. The ref let us play two minutes to finish the game, I almost stopped their empty net goal.

NCHL 2012/13 (Game #16)

Wednesday Jan 9th, @ 10:45, Confederation Arena Garbage Goals vs. Rangers (L 4-1) The Rangers snapped our seven game winning streak. We got out played in the first period and that was where the turning point was when we came down the ice and had a great scoring chance (would have made it 2-1 for Rangers) we missed and Rangers came down and scored to make it 3-0. First star Rodel S 1G. I was happy that our team didn't roll over after going down early in the game, we battled hard. The other team has my best friend James S and their sub also my best friend Javan M and he got a goal.

January 2013 Training

Saturday 26th, Cross country skiing #11 (skate style) for 1hr 40mins @ Strathcona Wilderness Centre with United Cycle group. Kms 15

Tuesday 22nd, Spin #2 @ home for 1 hour, avg heart rate=141 max=181, kms 22

Monday 21st, Cross country skiing #10 (skate style) for 1hr @ Strathcona Wilderness Centre. Kms 9

Saturday 12th, Cross country skiing #9 (skate style) for 1hr 45mins @ Strathcona Wilderness Centre with United Cycle group. Kms 16

Tuesday 8th, Spin #1 @ home for 1 hour, avg heart rate=98 max=148, kms 20

Sunday 6th, Cross country skiing #8 (skate style) for 1hr @ Goldbar park to Goldstick park. Kms 9

Saturday 5th, Cross country skiing #7 (skate style) for 1hr 30mins @ Strathcona Wilderness Centre. Kms 11

Troll In The Park XC Skiing Race 2013 @ Goldstick Park (Alberta Loppet Race Series) #1

Tuesday January 1st, I finished 23rd place out of 25  Results , It took me 1hr 8mins. I did skate style. I was in the Trolls category and that is for 1994 and earlier for male and female all but one racer did skate style. It was two laps and a total of 12 Kms long. This was my first ever XC Skiing race and considering I have only started in January 2012 and have gone skiing only 11 times ever, I was really proud I finished. We started from up top at Goldstick park and skied down to Goldbar park and then up the big hill, I will call the lung & leg buster to the lap/finish area. The course has lots of rolling hills and was on blue and black runs mixed with the connecting green trails. Temerature was -5 deg c. This was a great way to spend new years day, I had a great time.

Thanks to Edmonton Nordic Ski Club and all the volunteers for puting on the race. I really enjoyed all the chili at the end.