TALES FROM TRAINING CAMP

SANTA ROSA, CA

When i first arrived Jan 30, I was greated by 3 days of consitant rain coupled with 4 degree temperatures. It was definately a shock to the system. But as is usually the case, the pre season excitement often overcomes most of these issues and you find yourself able to front up and ride in conditions you otherwise wouldnt dare. We braved the driving rain and low temps for our team photos that happened the day after i arrived. Still realing from a terrible hair cut before i left home, that was by far the worst part to deal with....as it will stick with me the entire year.

But when the sun finally did come out....Santa Rosa is a beautiful place for a training camp and one of the nicer places i have ridden in the US. Our massive mansion atop to hills of the city is certainly a great view to wake up to each morning...but not a great way to finish each and every ride.

NEW GEAR.....ITS LIKE THE BEST CHRISTMAS EVER

Like the beginning of every season, getting the new gear is always an exciting part for any cyclist. Our new kit has, again, surpassed anything that we have riden in the past. The new colours for the team are bright and powerful. Lets hope that they can be seem as easily from the front of the bunch during the season.

The new team bike and kit in action. You may not be able to tell, but it is about 1 degree and raining....

The Pinarello Prince.....this bike deserves a special mention.....it is by far the most beautiful thing i have ever ridden. I cant even begin to explain what a sweet ride this is and coupled with the first sub 2kg groupset.....SRAM Red......this bike is the most special thing ever...check out some of the specifics of my ride.....

Frame: Pinarello Prince

Groupo: SRAM Red

Wheels: Easton

Saddle: Fi'zi:k Aliante

Not to mention my new TT rig.....

Last but not least....the new kids on the block.....

Aaron Olson: Nicknamed "PT" for his 2 years on the Pro Tour, Aaron is a great guy who will be of tremendous importance to the team and its direction with his energy and experience.

Joao Correia: I heard him described as a Portugese mobster...that fits for me. If you need something done, then Joao is your man.

Burke Swindlehurst: He is like a yoda. I think his experience and guidence will make a massive difference to the team this year. I look forward to looking to him and his leadership in some of the big races this year.

Jeremy Vennell: I tried last year to have this guy on my team and finally succeeded. The Kiwi is a champ and he will add strength across the board to this team.

Steven Howard: I have known Steve for a couple of years...the local Michigan boy has worked his way into the team after improving through the development team. He will add speed and give me someone to lead out from time to time.

Its a great mix and I am already looking forward to a great year. After a hard core training camp week, the Tour of Cali team is decided and we are going to do our best to rattle a few PT boys and hopefully look to take a stage somewhere during the 8 days.......

Later