Becker Road is good to go

First of all, Eryn forwarded me this from the Times today. I didn't really have much of a relationship with Tom, but I certainly remember him as a part of that block, around the corner from my parent's house, for my whole life. So, I walked by this guy, or saw him at the deli, thousands of times, give or take.

News of his death feels a little like similar news that I get periodically from my Mom of another store closing, or other, similar stuff. It's a little sad, but no great personal tragedy. However, I always kept my distance from Tom. So, my condolences to those who knew him better, to who his death is a real tragedy.

Second of all, after watching an endless video of the Tour of the Battenkill course, I popped over to Washington County today with Aleks to check out a few of the roads for real. Actually, we only rode one road from the race itself, Becker Road -- and a short stretch of Burton Road -- but I am pleased to report that all the dirt roads we saw were dry and clear, if anyone is looking to get out on some dirt this weekend.

Working later in the day has been a real adjustment for me, but I will say that going for a four-hour ride in the middle of the week, and still making it in to work more-or-less when I wanted to get there, is pretty nice. That the temperatures today were in the mid-20s was nice too. It could have been a little warmer, but I'm finally figuring out to properly dress myself for the cold -- jeez, it only took six winters.

Of course, Aleks trying to cajole me into joining her for a trip to the coast of Spain to train for two weeks didn't make me feel too good about riding around in the cold, but we can't all be full-time cyclists like she is! For now, I guess I'll just have to be grateful that I have at least one friend who's willing and able to ride with me in the middle of the day during the week.

In other news, this afternoon Dieter and I met with some members of the ad-hoc Marshall & Sterling Saratoga Criterium committee, to being our work for planning that race. The event, by the way, is on May 8. There will be lots more details to come, but for now, keep in mind that our goal is to double participation from last year -- so mark your calendar!