Conquering one hill at a time on the Gold Country Century Ride

In January, I was asked to take part in the Amgen Celebrity Ride as part of the Gold Country Metric Century. I was excited that I would get the chance to cycle on the same route the Amgen Tour of California cyclists would ride on. I saw myself speeding over the hills of Auburn with the grace and elegance of the pro-cyclists.

The event was this past Saturday and while I wasn’t quite the Olympian I had thought I would be, a couple of the organizers told me I was probably the first woman to finish the ride. They said this was pretty good for a flatlander (that’s what the foothill cyclists call Sacramento dwellers). Whoo hoo!

Not that it was a timed race, but you know I’m a little competitive so I did pedal my heart out the whole time. AND I totally loved the ride.

The Gold Country Metric Century is perfect for both novice cyclists like me and more advanced riders. It took place in Sierra foothills by Auburn in California and riders had the choice of doing the full 100 kilometer ride with 4600 feet of climbing or the 50 kilometer ride with only 2300 feet of climbing. I took the 50 km one – but next year I might do the whole thing as it wasn’t as exhausting as I imagined it would be.

Sure there are hills. Um…actually, there are a lot of rolling hills, but the scenery is gorgeous. It’s all farmland, vineyards and trees. And the route takes you through Old Town Auburn and through a number of winding roads. It's lovely.

It’s also not crowded which a bonus.

In total there were about 200 of us doing the route instead of the thousands of people that have shown up at other century rides I’ve done. When you have thousands of people, it feels crowded and a little stressful – especially if you’re like me and tend to go really slow up the hills. I’m talking grandma-walker speed here. I swear, on the flat areas I’m cruising effortlessly at 18 to 20 mph, but as soon as there is a little hill, I’m down to 5 or 6 mph. Pathetic really.

Anyway, this ride only has a couple of hundred people so it’s peaceful and relaxing. You encounter enough people along the way to know you’re not alone, but never feel the pressure of having someone breathing down your neck. I was almost sad when it ended.

It was the perfect way to spend a Saturday morning. Plus, all the proceeds from the event went towards the Auburn Community Cancer Endowment Fund.

So a win/win for everyone.

By the way, if you happen to be Auburn during Amgen (May 17), check out their other events.

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Surviving the Tour of Napa Valley Cycling Ride

Hundreds of cyclists spent Sunday pedaling in the 2010 Tour of Napa Valley Ride. I happened to be one of them and I must say it was a little more challenging than I thought it would be. Of course, being a little bit crazy when it comes to fitness and believing I am invincible doesn’t help.

If you love cycling and haven’t done the Tour of Napa Valley, you need to check it out. It’s gorgeous. You cycle through wine country along rural roads, along the shoulders of a couple highways and then through a few places that are off the beaten path. Because it’s a “ride” and not a race, you also don’t have to go fast as you won’t be timed and can leave anytime between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. depending on how many miles you do.

They do have one rule though: You have to be done the ride by 4 p.m.

You also have the choice of three routes:

1) A 30 mile relatively flat course that winds along rural roads through the beautiful Napa Valley wine country

2) A 65 mile course that involves approximately 3,000 ft. of climbing (really it was 69 miles).

3) Or you can do the classic 100 mile route which has about 5,000 ft. of climbing

Being relatively new to cycling, I choose the 65 mile route because frankly I thought 30 miles wouldn’t be worth getting out of bed early and driving all the way to Napa. Don't ask me about my logic. In my mind it made sense at the time.

CYCLING FOREVER AND EVER

So off I went on my little 65 mile route, and at first it was all that I imagined it would be. The first 30 miles were relatively painless. We cycled past cute little vineyards, lots of grapes and horses relaxing in the sun. It was perfect.

But then the elevation started.

When they said 3,000 feet of climbing they weren’t joking. It was hard. Really hard. Especially as I have not invested in the special clip-in cycling shoes yet and only have the standard pedals.

Apparently, this is a big deal as everyone who passed me on the hills mentioned that the ride would be so much easier if I had the right shoes. Lesson learned. Shoes are now on the "to-buy" list.

Anyway, back to the race.

The 3,000 feet elevation basically takes place over two hills. I know this doesn’t sound bad, but it was.

I made it up the first hill okay – using the lowest gear on my bike. The hill was called the Ink Grade and consisted of 1,110 feet of climbing over 4.5 miles. My legs were a little shaky when I reached the top, but I did it. I was even happier when someone told me this was the steepest hill and the rest would be a breeze.

Ha! It turns out that person was dead wrong. The second hill was not easier. It was harder.

In fact, the hill was known as Howell Mountain, and is ranked as the fifth toughest hill to climb in Napa (The first hill was only ranked number 15). Howell Mountain is 2.2 miles of straight climbing…and my legs were killing me the whole way.

Already exhausted from the first hill, I couldn’t make it to the top without cheating. Yes, I admit it. I actually got off my bike and pushed in the really steep part, but at least I wasn’t the only one. Even the people who were still on their bikes weren’t going much faster than I was pushing. It was one of those misery loves company things...and believe me, we were all miserable even if we did smile encouragingly at each other.

WHAT GOES UP MUST COME DOWN

I did get on my bike again eventually and joined the slow pedallars as we crept up the hill. And as the road leveled off, it was all worth it.

Reaching the top of Howell Mountain never felt so good. It didn’t matter that I still had 25 more miles to go before the ride was done or that I still had a couple more short hills to climb. The hard part was over…and I made it.

Besides, once you’ve done all the climbing the real fun begins. You get to go down!!!

While my slowest speed going up the mountain was a pathetic 3.6 mph when pushing, going down my fastest speed was 46.2 mph. Yes, that’s right. It wasn’t a bird…or a plane…that streak was ME! Whoohoo!!

So will I do the 100 mile route next year? No way. However, I will definitely try the 65 mile route again…and next year I vow not to push my bike up the hill.

It’s time to panic. Only eight days until race day



Me on my bike.

 In college, were you one of those people who used to cram before exams? I was.

I wasn't a bad student. I would actually attend every class and take notes, but here's a secret you shouldn't tell my professors...I really didn’t do any work until it came time for exams. I know...that's bad.

Instead, the day before the test I would boil a pot of Earl Gray tea, pop a big bowl of popcorn and stay up all night cramming as much information into my head as possible. Surprisingly, I always got good grades and was an honor student so I never really worried. Yes, my friends used to hate me for this, but whatever.

So why am I in panic-mode today? Well, apparently my bad study skills have morphed into my curent life because today I realized that I’m doing the exact same thing with my triathlon training. Aaah!!
 
Don’t get me wrong. Just like I used to go to class every day in school, I do workout – but I’m only doing the stuff I did before I decided to Eppies Great Race as an iron person. I do my three days of weights and then run or bike on the other three days. I’ve also done a couple of kayaking classes to make sure I can make it through the rapids.

Yeah, on paper this sounds like a lot, but it’s not really because basically I’m only working out 30 to 60 minutes a day – which is what I normally do. Okay, I have done a couple of long 50 mile bike rides, but that was more fun than working out so it doesn’t count.

In reality I should be doing more if I want to actually survive the triathlon, especially after I talked to a couple other people training for the race. Do you think they are only working out 30 minutes a day?  Nope, nope, nope..they are working out like real athletes. They are running 6 miles every other day, cycling like crazy and using professional triathlon coaches to get them results.

Yeah… I’m feeling like maybe I’ve been taking this challenge a little too lightly, but it’s too late to get into the groove now. The race is only eight days away. I know - IT'S PANIC TIME.

So now I’m cramming. I’m running 6 miles every second day this week and on the weekend I’m going to try to do the run, followed by a 12 mile bike ride. I only hope my body will respond as easily as my mind did during college.

Wish me luck!

PS. I did complete the Eppies Great Race on July 17 in 1 hour and 31 minutes -- coming in 16th for my ironwoman division. Yay!!!

Good people come with kayaks

If you've been following my blog, then you know I'm desperately trying to train for my first triathlon.  I've already got the running down (well, maybe not down, but at least I can run the 6 miles without dying). The biking portion is also kind of under control. That just left the dreaded kayaking -- and making it alive through the San Juan rapids on the American River.

You see...even though I surf, snorkle and do a bunch of water related things, I'm not really a strong swimmer so facing rough water while cruising down a river in a tippy boat was something I wasn't looking forward to.

But then my guardian angel came along and hooked me up with the nicest people in the area.

A GIFT FROM ABOVE...AND IT WAS FREE

For the last three years, Sherri Reese and Steve Holmes have dedicated almost every weekend from May until July teaching new kayakers how to navigate down the American River and safely through the San Juan rapids.

They specifically work with people like me who plan on competing in Eppies Great Race, and believe me these people know what it takes to complete the race. Steve has competed in the Eppies for the last 27 years and Sherri has done it nearly 10 times. But they don't just race, they want to share the fun.

"We love the race. So Steve wrote to Eppies one year and told them we were willing to show people how to kayak," Sherri said. "But even though it's been three years, not that many people know about us yet."

When she told me that, I was baffled.  I mean, the kayak clinics they hold are incredible. They take you down the race route, show you the secrets of getting through the rapids and also the pitfalls of choosing some of calmer water.

But here's the best part. The kayak clinics Sherri and Steve conduct are free of charge and all the equipment is included. They provide the kayak, the lifejackets and the skill to show people of all ages how to paddle safely - and what to do if the boat does happen to capsize. They have 13 kayaks and borrow more from friends if they happen to need them.

And if you are like me and like to perfect things, you can attend more than one clinic, and regardless of how many times you go down the river with Sherri and Steve, there is never any cost. I've attended 3 so far and plan on hanging out with them two more weekends before race day. They are so fabulous and their attitude is "the more; the merrier". They love it when people come out -- especially us newbies.

"We had at least 10 people the first time we did it. For most people who come out, it's their first time on the water. There are a few that have kayaked before, but most haven't. Actually this year, we only had one person who had kayaked before," said Sherri.

IT'S ALL ABOUT THE PASSION

I admit I feel a little guilty taking all these lessons, but when I asked Sherri and Steve why they do it for free, they said it's because they want to share their passion with others. They don't own a sporting goods store, nor do they sell kayaks. In fact, Sherri works as an infection control nurse at UC Davis and Steve is a high school teacher at Hiram W. Johnson. They say they don't want to charge for the lessons because they don't want money to be the reason people don't learn how to kayak safely.

"The race itself costs money. If you had to rent a kayak and then pay someone to teach you how to do it, it adds up," said Steve.

Sherri says one of the reasons they started giving the free lessons was because she was hit a few times on the water during the race in the middle of the San Juan rapids. She says some of the racers don't know how to steer their boats or they are unfamiliar with the course. They often end up ramming into other racers, capsizing on the river or putting others in danger.

"It's hard to believe people would do the kayaking portion of the race without any practice, but it does seem when I get out there, there are some people who have no idea what they are doing. They just get in the kayak and go," Sherri said.

While the couple won't accept payment for their lessons, they are being rewarded in other ways. They say there is nothing like seeing the look on people's faces when they find out they can kayak -especially when they make it through the rapids the first time.

"People always say they've heard about how scary and how awful and rough the San Juan rapids are. We show them how they can get through them. They just need skirt around the left side and it's no big deal," said Steve. "The best part is when people realize they can do it and the rapids aren't going to stop them."

NOTHING LIKE SHARING A LITTE JOY

Sherri agrees. She sees the free lessons they give as a gift. It's a way for them to share the good times they have on the river with others.

"During the race it's so fun to hear someone calling your name from across the river. Sometimes when I'm paddling, I'll catch up with some of our students. It is so nice to see them doing it and succeeding," Sherri said.

Sherri 's teaching doesn't stop with her students. If she sees someone struggling during the race, she'll give them some hints to help them out.

"They always seem so appreciative. Certainly I am passing them as I give them the hint. It is a race," she said, laughing.

Sherri and Steve are planning to hold clinics the weekends of June 27 and July 11. To sign up for one of their free kayak clinics or to find out more, email Sherri and Steve at kfitness01@yahoo.com.
For more information on Eppies Great Race, visit http://www.thegreatrace.org/.

Humbled by the superhumans in California

I bow down to the fitness fiends in California. I mean, I’m a little nuts when it comes to working out and will go on a 50 mile bike ride, run 6 miles and then go dancing that night, but what I do is nothing compared to the people I meet here.
I swear, these people look like everyday individuals and then when you start talking to them you find out they are superhuman.

First there was the marketing director at News10. We get to talking and it turns out she just finished the 100 mile bike ride up the mountain in Tahoe over the weekend. Can you say "wow!!" My car has to go into overdrive going up that elevation. I can't imagine doing it on a bike.

Then I run into another girl who just finished the 178 mile Reno-Tahoe Odyssey Relay – yes, that’s right – I said it -- one-hundred-and-seventy-eight miles.

But that’s not all.

While having margueritas at Chevy’s, I learned about the Whitney Mountain hike. It sounds fabulous and it's now on my California "to-do" list. But get this...the couple I was with had done it not once, but four times.

"The first time Sarah got elevation sickness and couldn't get to the top," said the husband.

Elevation sickness? Hmmm...that's high. I may have to train a little for that one.

They have also done the Badwater Ultramarathon – which is 135 mile run across Death Valley in July. They told me if I do it, I should run along the white line on the road because it’s cooler.

So now I’m feeling a little inadequate with my measly 6 mile runs. I may just have to bring it up a notch.

Bike Lesson #1: Get padded shorts

I hurt….everywhere.

Ever since I signed up for the Eppies Great Race in Sacramento I’ve been running a couple of times of week to work up to the 6 miles I need to complete for the first tier of the race. I make this sound like it’s been forever, but really, I only signed up on April 14 so it’s been two weeks.

But running 6 miles isn’t why I hurt. It’s the biking that’s killing me. I swear, my butt will never be the same.

FIRST I GOT THE BIKE
With the race being 10 weeks away, I thought I should plow ahead into Phase II of my training and buy a bike. The Great Race consists of a 6 mile run, 12 miles on bike and 6 miles by kayak, and if you’ve been following my blog, you’ll know that I haven’t owned a bike since I was 10.

Even though it's been a couple decades, I was really hoping it would all come back naturally and I would ride like the wind. Yeah…well…not quite.

It’s not the bike’s fault. I actually did a lot of research beforehand and after talking to people, I ditched my first plan of buying something cheap from Craig’s list – not that Craig’s list is bad. I have actually sold lots of stuff on the online board. But I learned last year when I decided to buy golf clubs that size really does matter – especially after I bought ladies clubs and then had to pay to get them extended by a couple of inches. Yes, I’m apparently a giant.

If you haven’t gone bike shopping in a long time, they come in sizes and not just adult and kids. It turns out because of my height, I needed a 57” frame.

When I walked into City Bicycle Works, I had my heart set on a Trek road bike. Not only is this the brand Lance Armstrong uses (except he has the expensive model and I was looking at the lower end cheapy one), but the three people I interviewed about bikes all had that brand, too. It seemed as if it was the brand for winners.

So did I get that one? Nope. I got a Specialized road bike and here’s why: While I do agree the Trek was faster and I liked the way gears shifted better, the bike I got had breaks on the top part of the handle bars in addition to the traditional place and it felt a little more comfortable.

Of course, fast is probably better when it comes to racing, but let’s face it…I’m not going to win this race. My goal is to finish it somewhere in the middle. Plus, when it’s all over, I plan on taking my snazzy bike out to the coast and doing some distance cycling on the weekends – so comfort…and not speed will be important.

Besides, this bike was on sale so it was slightly cheaper than the Trek Bike. Bonus.

THEN I RODE FOR 30 PLUS MILES
Now that I had the bike, I had to ride it. And ride it, I did. I went for 30 miles along the American River path and felt great for most of it. I admit, the last 5 miles on the way back were a little killer. My knees were starting to hurt (I still have to get the bike adjusted so this doesn’t happen) and I could no longer feel my butt. No really. It was completely numb.

Let me tell you a little secret that nobody told me -- Get bike shorts! Riding that long with regular shorts is not a good idea.

The feeling did come back and believe me I wish it didn’t. It hurts to walk, sit and move today.
There will be no more biking until I invest in the padded shorts.

Bucket List: Can I really be an iron woman in The Great Race?

I admit it. I am freaking out just a little bit.

I not only signed up for my first triathlon yesterday, but I signed up as an iron woman. Yes, that’s right. I’m doing The Great Race in Sacramento (was the Eppie's Great Race) and have just over 90 days to whip my body into shape.

For those of you who haven’t heard of The Great Race, it’s a triathlon that is running/biking/kayaking and this year it’s taking place on July 17 along the American River.

Here’s the thing. I’m not really worried about the running portion of the race. It’s only 6 miles which I already do in my weekly workout – so that part is a piece of cake. It’s the rest of it that will be a little challenging.

You see, I haven’t owned a bike since I was 10 and really haven’t miss it all that much. I also have never kayaked. Ever.

So now you understand why I’m starting to wonder if this was the best idea.

WHAT'S ON YOUR BUCKET LIST?
Some people have asked why I don’t team up with someone, but that would defeat the purpose.

We all have our bucket list of stuff we want to do and doing a triathlon as an iron woman just happens to be on mine. I’ve already run 5k and 10k races. Those are off the list. It’s time to push myself to do something more.

I also haven’t been able to cross "do a triathlon" off my list in the past because I only kind of swim. I can float. I can back crawl. I can do a couple of laps across the pool at 24 hour fitness. But there is no way I could make it a mile without having to touch the ground, never mind a bunch of miles. This means – no triathlons.

The Great Race is made for poor swimmers like me because the water portion is in a kayak. Yay!

THE RACE ISN’T EVEN THE SCARY PART

Okay, so I have a lot of training to do over the next three months, but I’m not worried. Like I said, I have the running portion done – so check.

I’ll buy a road bike in the next couple of weeks and start working on that portion – check that one off too.

Kayaking? Well, they have to have lessons somewhere and I guess I can rent one the day of the race – not quite a "check", but I’ll worry about it in May.
The part of the race that has me petrified is how to get all these things (body, bike, kayak) to the race and in the correct areas before the race and then trying to figure out which one is mine after the hundreds of other racers have put theirs in the same area. What if I can’t find my kayak when I get that part of The Great Race? How do I get my bike back afterward? Do I have to walk all the way back? What if I get lost?

I now know why Lance Armstrong has a team of helpers. It would be so much easier just to run to the area and have someone hand my bike/kayak, pass me a water bottle and off I go.

I wonder if Lance would be willing to share?

Getting bit by the biking bug - and liking it!

I've decided to christen Julie Urlaub as Houston's "IT girl" of the week. Not only is she beautiful and intelligent, but she's an adrenaline junkie who's incredibly inspiring.

And here's why. Julie just finished the 24 Hours of Adrenalin Bike Competition in Canmore, Canada this past weekend and she came in third for her age class (she's in the 40 to 45 age group). Whoo-hoo!!

The competition played host to 1,400 cyclists from all over the world and you have to qualify to get into it.

SO WHO IS JULIE?

So is Julie the female version of Lance Armstrong? Well, not exactly. She is actually a managing partner for Taiga Company in Houston and has only been cycling for about six years.

"Houston really has a great community for cycling, whether it's road racing or mountain biking. I just got bit by the biking bug," said Julie.

Julie completed her first race about four years ago, but this was the first year she had participated in the 24 Hours of Adrenalin Competition. She says even though she had been training for a while, the course was challenging.

Because it was in the mountains, there was a lot of climbing. In fact, Julie says the climb was about 1,800-2,000 feet per lap and each lap was 12.5 miles long. Julie was able to complete nine laps in the 24 hour period.

"The race was really awesome. Aside from the climbing, there were a lot of technical sections that required you to pay attention," said Julie. "It wasn't like riding the flat terrain in Houston. You had to be in and out of the saddle and be aggressive on the bike."

While she admits the race took a toll on her body, the backdrop was spectacular and made it all worthwhile.

"It was in Canmore, which is the Canadian Rocky Mountains. It was unbelievably beautiful. Incredibly gorgeous," said Julie.

But Julie wasn't the only one feeling the pain. Rebecca Rusch, who won the female division of the competition, also said that it was a hard course.

"I figure if Rebecca says it's hard, then it must be hard," said Julie. "I have a lot of respect for her so if she says it's so, then I'm going to believe her."

But the race would not have been so fantastic if it wasn't for the hard work of Stuart Dorland, the founder and creator of 24 Hours of Adrenalin. He leveraged social media with twitter and other platforms, which made the race engaging. Julie said it felt like a world class event.

"It was incredible. The participants at the competition really looked out for each other. They were so supportive. You would be so tired and feel like your legs were going to fall off, then you would drive by a group of people and they would yell, 'Way to go! You can make it up this hill'," said Julie. "It was so inspiring to hear this. I've never been in an environment where people were so amazingly supportive."

Julie trained hard for the race, but says she couldn't have done it without the support of her husband and her friend Tony DeOre, who were her pit crew during the competition.

"You think it's just one person out on the bike, but it's not. It's you and your pit crew. They can make and break the race. My husband and Tony helped me get through it," Julie said.

TRAINING FOR THE RACE

For those of you who haven't been to the Canadian Rocky Mountains, they are the complete opposite of Houston's landscape. In fact, the word "flat" doesn't even make the list when describing them.

"Houston is as flat as a pancake. I did a lot of training miles here before going to Canmore. I also did some other races where there was more climbing," said Julie. "But if you can't climb hills, you can push on your gears for sustained effort and work with a trainer to try to prepare your body for it."

Julie bikes five or six times a week, but she's not always going for distance. Some days she rides long, but other days she works more on intensity.

"It all depends. Mileage isn't always the goal. You try to work different systems within the body," said Julie. "There are a lot of micro/macro building within your training."

Julie says she learned her cycling training tricks by talking with other cyclists, getting a coach, surfing the Web and getting to know what her body could handle. But it's not just being on the bike that's important. She also watches her nutrition to ensure she's getting enough protein and carbs. Sleep is also important as recovery is almost as important as the training.

"The misconception is that you are only working when you are on your bike, but really it has to do with keeping a positive mindset and balancing your life and work," said Julie.

GETTING STARTED AS A CYCLIST

One of the great things about biking is that all you need is a bike and a helmet. And you don't need to buy a fancy bike unless you really get into it.

If you are looking for equipment, Julie recommends paying a visit to her favorite bike store, BikeSport. They can give you information on cycling gear, local trails or joining groups in the area. They also have a team that you can join

In case you were wondering what Julie rides, her bike is a Pivot.

"I love my bike," said Julie. "I really encourage women to get out there and try cycling. There is a great organization here in Houston called GHORBA.org. There are a lot of great women in the group and they are at all different levels."

Julie says joining a group will help you improve your cycling skills, as well as make new friends.
"The best thing about the sport is that everyone cheers each other on," said Julie. "The people become dear to your heart."

THE BEST CYCLING TRAILS IN HOUSTON

You don't have to go all the way to Canada to cycle great trails. Julie says she has two favorite places around Houston that she likes to bike.

1) Double Lake off of 59 in Coldspring, Texas - Double Lake is about an hour outside of Houston. It's a fun course because regardless of your skill level, you can find some way to challenge yourself. The course is twisty so you can practice cornering, but it's also a great place to bike if you just want to go for a leisurely ride with friends. Julie says she's seen deer and rabbits on the trail. There is also a pretty lake in the area.

2) Rocky Hill Ranch in Smithville - Rocky Hill Ranch has 25 miles of trails. There are also some areas where you can practice your cycling climbing skills. Rocky Hill offers more technical challenges than the Double Lake trail.

Julie also says there are some great trails in the San Antonio area.

Checking out Sheila Kelley's S-Factor

Four years ago, I saw "Desperate Housewives" star Teri Hatcher perform a pole trick on Oprah. Ever since then I swore that if I lived in a city that had a Sheila Kelley's S-Factor studio, I would have to try it.

Turns out, Houston is one of two cities outside of California that has one. They also happen to have monthly introduction nights for $20 to give newbies like me a little taste of what the classes would be like - without committing to an 8 week course.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE POLE DANCING CLASS

The evening started with everyone gathering in the lobby. I was happy to see that I wasn't the only girl curious about the program. There must have been at least 40 of us there (the intro night actually sold out so if you do want to try it, sign up early).

Now before you think you'll be hanging upside down on the pole right away, let me just tell you that won't be happening. Instead, most of the intro class was a combination of yoga and Pilates moves to help increase core strength and flexibility - and believe me, you're going to need it because pole dancing is much harder than it looks.

But you won't worry about that in the first lesson. In fact, the whole experience was kind of relaxing as they dim the lights and play great music while you work out. The only difference is that these exercises will leave you feeling sore the next day. Really sore. I must admit that my quads were hurting and my abs felt like I had done a thousand crunches.

TAKING ON THE POLE

Once you've worked out all your muscles, it's time to do what everyone who signed up wanted to do since the beginning of the night - swing on the pole.

I swear, even though we all wanted to try it, we all were scared to death. I mean, they look slippery and what if you fall on your butt?

But have no fear. The instructors are fantastic and incredibly supportive.

First they showed us step-by-step how to do the basic "Firefly" or "Fireman" spin and then they came around and taught us one-by-one so that each of us could do it by the end of the class.

I must admit it was invigorating to master it and all of us were on a personal high after flying weighlessly through the air - even though we knew we would have bruises the next day.

Yes, that's right. You will leave the studio bruised.

I had bruises on the back of my legs and the top of my feet (who knows how that happened) but it was totally worth it - because let's face it, unless you hang out in those night clubs with they happen to have stripper poles or happen to live in an old fire hall, you'll never get to do this. And you'll never get to do in an environment as supportive as this.

THE BIG FINALE

But the night wasn't over yet. For the big finale the instructors got together and did a little routine to showcase all the incredible tricks you would eventually learn to do on the pole -- if you decided to sign up for lessons.

Now don't start thinking these girls are wanna-be strippers, because they weren't. Some of them were married, another one was a nurse, one was even expecting a baby. The girls were also fully dressed and wearing workout outfits (no high heels or anything slutty). The only difference between this class and an aerobics class was they had a pole and they moved like jaguars - graceful, powerful and confident.

Watching them, you realize that all those core building exercises you did at the beginning of the class were necessary as you need to have strength to move like they do.

THINKING ABOUT CHECKING IT OUT

So was it worth the $20? Definitely!

You'll get to spend quality time with your girlfriends (no guys allowed) while getting a fabulous workout. Plus, you are doing something you don't get to do in any other studio in the city. And it's perfect for women of all ages and sizes. In fact, I saw women ranging from early 20s to early 50s.

Just remember to wear comfortable clothes and be prepared to work your muscles.

I'm going back. Just one class and I'm already totally addicted.

Father and son roping team live the rodeo dream

The best part of my job is meeting people, and I must say, Allen Bach was one of the most interesting men I have met in my career. 

Allen Bach is a four time PRCA World Champion, 27 consecutive time qualifier to the National Finals Rodeo, and a three time all time high money winner of the George Strait Team Roping Classic.

Bach's been blessed with his success and the chance to rope all his life. But now he says he's living the dream by team roping with his 19-year-old son, Joel.
"I haven't won the most saddles and buckles in history, but I have all the championships that I need to have. My dream now would be to win the National Finals with my son. That would be a story book ending for me," said Bach.

Bach has been married for 30 years and competing in the rodeo during that entire time. As his four kids were growing up, they did everything as a family. However, now that his son is not just watching from the stands, but competing with him, the relationship is different.
"We team rope together so Joel's become more like a business partner. It would be anybody's dream to compete at the high level that we do in the rodeo," said Bach.

While the father/son team is a dream come true, Bach admits that they have had to make little adjustments to make it work.

"I have to be a dad first, then a partner, coach and best friend. But of course, my son would like me to be a partner first, then a coach, friend and finally a dad," said Allen Bach. "He thinks he's already grown up, but he's only 19, and there's still a lot to learn about the world."

But neither Allen or Joel would trade up what they have for anything else. The rodeo is part of their lives and it's almost as if Joel is taking over the family business.

"This is my second year competing with my dad, but I've been riding and roping since I was seven," said Joel. "I'd really like to make the finals and become one of the contenders for the World Rodeo. If we make it, I'll be one of the youngest headers."

Bach admits that his ties to the rodeo, and the people his son has met, made huge impact on Joel as he grew up. He understands the pressure, the lingo and the lifestyle.

"The people Joel's competing against are the same people he grew up with. They are friends and I think this works to his advantage as he's not star struck," said Bach.

Bach says he hopes to help give his son a boost to his rodeo career, but he says there's a lot more to it than just riding and roping. There's also the sponsorship and business side of the rodeo.

"I'm hoping because of my name and reputation that it will help with the advertising and sponsorship. He can follow in my footsteps," said Bach.

Even though Bach takes the rodeo business seriously, he works hard to balance it with his personal life.
In addition to being a rodeo champion, he is also an ordained minister and the founder of the ministry Forever Cowboys.

"It's just a group of guys and we try to bless the kids where we can with rodeo bible camps and other events. Our goal is to maximize the cowboy's influence in the world," said Bach.

According to Bach, the cowboy has always stood for integrity and doing what's right. He's a generic role model that can help make the world a better place.

"When you're a cowboy, your word is your honor. We're trying to follow those values and remind the next generation that these values are important. You can only win so many buckles and saddles. It's time to do something about changing the world," said Bach.

Currently living on 50 acre ranch in Weatherford, Texas, Allen and Joel are on the road for over half of the year. Bach says the secret to his success has to do with priorities.

"My wife is so strong. She's an incredible woman. Together we learned how to make a functional thing that could easily be dysfunctional. We learned to balance God, family and the rodeo," said Bach.

"I always tell people that rodeo makes a lousy God. It's just a spoke in the wagon wheel of life and you have to put God in the middle or else it won't work," said Bach. "I admit that sometimes in my life the rodeo ends up in the middle, but then I have to work to put God back there."

In the meantime, Allen and Joel are enjoying their time together as a team.

"It's really fun traveling with your dad, especially when you win," said Joel.

Bach also has a 15-year-old son that ropes. He's sometimes out competing with his mom while Bach is on the road with Joel.

Finding out what makes a cowboy a champion

Thursday was a busy day for me. I spent hours just hanging out behind the Reliant Stadium at the rodeo trying to find out just what makes a real-live cowboy.

It turns out that being a cowboy at the rodeo isn't all about winning saddles and gold buckles. In fact, based on many of the athletes that I met, the rodeo and riding has been a part of their lives since they were young.

Matt Shiozawa was one of the guys that I ran into. Shiozawa lives in Idaho, but was in Houston competing in the tie-down roping event in the BP Super Series.

"I've been serious about competing in the rodeo since high school," said Shiozawa. "This is what I do as my full-time job."

The 28-year-old has been around rodeos all his life. His family had a farm and he says that competing professionally was something that he's always wanted to do.

"Both my dad and my brother used to compete in rodeos so I've pretty much been around it all my life," said Shiozawa. "My dad and my brother competed locally."

Shiozawa has won a number of rodeo events including finishing 20th in 2004 in the world standings. He's also competed many times in the National Finals Rodeo.

"At first it's a lot practice, but I now feel my skills are as honed as they could be," said Shiozawa. "I believe that being the best athlete you can be is every bit as important as skills training so I weight train and keep in shape."

Jason Havens from Oregon was also there getting ready for Bareback Bronc Riding event.

Havens has been competing for the 17 years and placed in four of 10 rounds at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in 2007.

"I had a cousin that was in the rodeo, and when I was a kid, I would go and watch him," said Havens.

Havens grew up riding horses. But while his immediate family didn't have a farm, he had other family members that did.

"I always wanted to be in the rodeo," said Havens. "I couldn't afford to get a saddle, but my cousin had extra bareback harnesses so I did got into bareback riding."

Havens says that all though high school he practiced whenever he could.

"There were amateur stock contractors by the high school and I would practice on their horses. I also practiced at Walla-Walla Community College while I was attending school there," said Havens.

Like many of the athletes at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, both Havens and Shiozawa spend much of the year on the road. This year Shiozawa estimates that he'll be spending about 10 months going from competition to competition, while Havens will spend approximately 150 to 160 days on the road. The athletes don't travel alone. Many of them travel the circuit together.

"Bareback riders Bobby Mote, Brain Bain, Ryan Gray and I all travel together," said Havens. "I meet Bobby back in college and we just started travelling together."

Havens and Shiozawa are currently competing in the BP Super Series at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, and while they are little quiet and don't seem to want to talk about how great they are, the guys are pretty good.

As of March 5, Shiozawa was first in the Series 1 tie-down roping standings. Havens was 8th in the bareback bronc riding standings.

This year I resolve to run in circles

I'm a runner. When I say this, I don't mean that I run marathons or that I run fast - although I would like to. Instead, I merely run the Mermorial Park loop.

I run the loop a couple of times a week and I must admit I love it. In fact, the loop was one of the reasons I moved to Houston.

You see, I've been a slow, but dedicated runner for years. It's my way to de-stress, forget about errands and move all my thoughts to the back burner. All I think about when I run is the beat of the music from my iPod and my goal of finishing the 5K.

But in order to make the running enjoyable, I have to "like" the path I run on --otherwise, it's torture and reminds me of gym class. Plus, it's got be safe, have a good running surface, and it's got to be pretty.

Yes, I know the last one is a little lame, but you have to admit that it's much nicer to run with trees or water around, compared to a concrete industrial track.

BEST PLACES TO RUN IN HOUSTON

When I lived in Memphis, I ran along the Mississippi, and when I lived in Tampa, I ran along the bay on Bayshore. So when I moved to Houston, the first thing I needed to find was my running spot.

Surprisingly, Houston has a bunch of great running places. But three are my favorite. The first is, of course, Memorial Park. I love knowing exactly how far I'm running and knowing the end is just around the corner.

Then there's the Buffalo Bayou. The trail is gorgeous and unpredictible. There are even shady spots which make it perfect for running on those super hot Houston summer days. But of course, there are times when it smells like...well, it smells like bayou - if you know what I mean. It's also pretty scary when the sun goes down.

My final favorite trail is the one by the zoo. I don't even know what this one is called, but it's a nice relaxing run.

But if you don't like these, there is also this website that lists a bunch Houston jogging paths.

RUNNING IN CIRCLES FOR 2009

Right now I run the loop once and then treat myself to Starbucks on the way home. But I'm thinking for 2009, I should challenge myself. I'm going to try to run the loop not just once, but twice. Maybe not every time, but on the days when I actually have an entire morning free.

So to do that, I spent the day pumping up my iPod with music to keep me motivated the whole time -- because you know, nothing is more boring than running in circles in silence. Somehow, the music takes the pain away.

So what's on my iPod? Well, it's a little bit electic, but here it is:

First loop around:

• 4 Minutes - Madonna and Justin Timberlake
• I Don't Want to be in Love (dance version) - Good Charlotte
• Shake It - Metro Station
• Take My Hand - Simple Plan
• Bad Girlfriend - Theory of a Deadman
• Cold Hard B**tch - Jet
• Are you going to be my Girl - Jet

Second loop around:

• The Hand That Feeds - Nine Inch Nails
• Snakes on a Plane - Cobra Starship
• Faster Kill Pussycat - Oakenfold
• He's a Pirate - Klaus Badelt & Tiesto remix techno version
• Truly Madly Deeply - Cascada
• Misery Business - Paramore
• Bleed it Out - Linkin Park

Emergency songs (just in case I run slower than usual):

• Stoned in Love - Chicane
• Sandstorm - Darude
• Another Girl Another Planet - Blink 182

Girl About Town sweats buckets at the hottest yoga studio in Houston

A little bit of stretching, a little bit of deep breathing and a whole lot of sweating is what you'll be doing at YogaOne in Houston -- but believe me, you'll love it!

Located at 3030 Travis, YogaOne opened their doors the beginning of October, but they are already heating up Midtown with their state-of-the-art studio and expertly taught yoga classes.

"I go three to four times a week," said Grace Pangia, YogaOne member. "I was bored doing the treadmill and elliptical machine. I needed a new challenge."

So can yoga really challenge someone who already goes to the gym?

A NEW TYPE OF CHALLENGE

"I really love the Hot Hatha class," said Pangia. "I find it more challenging because you have to concentrate on the moves."

Hatha is one of the yoga classes taught at the studio. In the 90 minute class, the students go through 32 different poses that are designed to stretch out the body, improve strength and raise your heartrate.

But what makes this yoga sizzling hot is the heat they pump into the room. It's literally a balmy 105 degrees.

"The heat helps facilitate the stretch, and it cleanses your liver and your skin," said Nicole Haagenson, YogaOne Instructor.

Haagenson has been teaching Hatha yoga for six years, but she's only started teaching "Hot" Hatha, the studio's signature class.

"It's an excellent workout. It's comparable to running three miles," said Haagenson.

Okay...I know what you're thinking, because I was thinking the same thing. How can doing a few stretches in hot room give me the same workout as running?

So I took her up on the challenge and did a class.

GIRL ABOUT TOWN DISCOVERS HOW HOT IT REALLY IS

Guess what? Yoga is tough. By the end of the class I was tired...and I did hydrate through the whole thing and I'm not exactly a fitness rookie. I run the Memorial Park Loop a couple times a week and do the treadmill on off days. I was certain that I could breeze though the class.

I also didn't expect to sweat, but sweat I did. In fact, I was shocked at how much water poured out of my body. It's going to sound disgusting, but I was dripping.

Thankfully, this was totally acceptable because everyone else was just as soaking wet as I was.

"Someone told me that your karma soaks into your mat," said Roy, YogaOne member.

Well, I couldn't deny that something was soaking into my mat. And neither could I deny the good karma that was all around the studio.

Everyone at YogaOne was nice and couldn't stop telling me all the good things about the studio. Most of students were new to yoga, but even the ones that were there for the first time, said they were coming back.

"It's additive," said Grace. "I love coming here. The instructors really seem to care about you and take the time to help you."

Roy, another member, told me almost the exact same thing.

"Unlike some places I've been to, the instructors here treat you well," said Roy. "I recommend the Explorer's Club. They'll spend one-on-one time with you to help you get into the poses."

As for me, the Hot Yoga was definitely something I would try again. I slept really well that night and my body did feel more relaxed, so the stretching helped. Plus, they told me that once I do it a couple more times, I'll feel re-energized. You can't beat that.

So here's the scoop on Yoga one:

1) If you plan on doing the hot yoga, bring lots of water and a towel. You're going to need it.

2) Hot Hatha is suitable for people of all fitness levels, but if you don't like it, they do teach Ashtanga yoga (the yoga Madonna does), Vinyasa yoga, a slow flow stretch class and something they call the Explorers Club for those who want to perfect their moves.

3) On Sunday at 4:00 they teach a free Pranayama breathing class.

4) They also teach a belly dance class on Thursday night.

Oh...and they have an introductory special going on right now. Until the end of November, you can get 10 days of yoga for $10. Now that's one hot deal.

See you on the mat. Until then...ommmmmm.

Girl About Town masters the Texas Longhorns symbol

This weekend the Longhorns took on the Sooners and WON!!

Everyone at the station was cheering and talking about the win all Saturday night, especially after the Texans have been sucking big time this season. But don't worry, I still love the Texans. I'm convinced the only reason they are losing is because I haven't got around to attending a game yet to help personally cheer them on.

But back to the Longhorns. Did you know that doing the Texas Longhorns hand symbol is harder than it looks? Really...it is. And it's not just me who thinks so. I met a couple of other Texas newbies at Rice University and they said that it took them a while to master it - and make it look natural.

Here's what not to do:

1) Do not cross the thumb over your fingers, but place it on the tips your bent index and ring fingers -- like you're making a little bull nose. If you do it wrong and cross the thumb over the fingers, you just end up doing the "party-on" sign that rockers do at concerts.

2) Do not stick your thumb out to the side or make the fingers that represent the "horns" go out at an angle. This will make it look like you are doing the "hang loose" surfer dude gesture - which is very wrong when cheering the Longhorns to victory.

3) Do not bend your "horn" fingers. While you might think that you are making a charging symbol, it's really just lame. A true Longhorns fan keeps their fingers straight and proud.

4) Do not do the hand gesture upside down because then you'll just be cheering for Oklahoma. Very bad.

Cowabunga, Dude! Surfing in Galveston

Before every hurricane, you always see the surfers catching some waves out in Galveston Bay. So with yet another storm taking aim at the Gulf, I figured, if you can't beat them, join them.

Yup...that's right. KHOU's Girl About Town is going surfing - but first she has to learn how.

Surfing is something I've always wanted to try, but I've backed off because: a) I didn't want to wipe out and be knocked unconscious by my board, and b) I didn't want be eaten by sharks.

Turns out, both of these fears are completely rational.

"Getting hit by your board is the most common surfing injury," said Brian, my surf instructor. "I knew this hula dancer when I living in Hawaii. She wiped out, and her board came around and knocked all her front teeth out."

Crap. That's just what I need.

LEARNING THE BASICS
Brian, who owns C-Sick Surfin on Galveston Island, has been surfing since 1962. He's caught waves all over the world including Africa, Hawaii, California and any place else you can think of. Plus, he still has all his teeth so he must know something.

I met up with him on Monday for my first lesson, and you'll be happy to hear that he didn't just hand me a board and throw me into the water (thank goodness). We spent at least the first 30 minutes of the two hour lesson learning the basics like how to spot the waves, the currents and rips, and what dangers to look out for. He also taught me how to properly carry the surf board and we practiced getting up on it on the sand.

Then we hit the water.

CATCHING THE WAVES
The first thing that surprised me about surfing is that you don't have to be in really deep water to catch a wave.

"You just need to be waist-deep and then you can climb on your board and start paddling," said Brian.

But you don't need to paddle for hours. You just need to go where the waves are. On the day I went, the water was below chest level and it was perfect height for getting the surf.

The second thing that surprised me was that it's much harder to stand up on a moving surfboard in water than it is to stand up on the sand.

I swear, I was doing excellent on the shore during the practice session. Didn't fall off the board once. But in the water, it was completely different.

There I was paddling, feeling the wave start pushing the board. And from behind me, I could hear Brian yelling, "Stand up now." The steps of how to do it were going through my head: grab the rails and push up, move your right foot to the center, and stand up straight with your weight in the middle and knees bent.

Sounds simple, but man, the board was moving fast.

But I paid $50 and drove all the way to Galveston, so I was going to do it.

I took a deep breath, pushed up, and amazingly, I was standing!!!! They worked. The steps really worked!!

Then, a second later, I wiped out.

You know that saying, if you fail, try again? That's the way it works in surfing. I got my board, paddled back out and tried it again. The second time, I didn't even make it a standing position, but plunged head first and sucked in a bunch of seawater. Yeah...I was really graceful.

But the third time, was the dream. I got up, caught the first wave and then stayed up long enough to catch the second bigger one coming in behind it. It was a complete rush. It was my best ride of the day and the reason I'll be going back again.

DO THEY HAVE SHARKS IN GALVESTON BAY?
Two hours later, I was getting pretty good at feeling when the wave was coming. And while I was able to stand up most of the time (at least for a few seconds), I was nowhere near being a professional surfer and will probably need a couple more lessons before I commit to buying my own surf board.

But here's what I did learn:

1) I'm a goofy foot and not a regular foot, which means I stand with my right foot forward on the board.

2) The sun will burn you - everywhere. I wore a t-shirt over my bikini top just because I didn't want anything coming loose in the waves, and I was glad I did. At least my chest and back didn't get burned. But I can't say the same about the back of my knees. Ouch.

3) If you fall off your board and don't know where it is, cover you head and face with your arms. Your board will come back and hit you. Remember the hula girl.

4) When paddling out, don't fight the waves. Paddle between sets or use the rips to get out. If you don't know what these are, find someone like Brian to teach you.

5) If you see lots of birds feeding or lots of fish jumping, don't surf there. Chances are there's a big fish feeding on the smaller fish below the waves.

6) Don't dangle your toes off your surfboard, wear red nail polish or shiny watches. All these things will make you attractive to big fish like sharks.

7) Invest in a surfer shirt (they call them rash guards). The material in the shirts has 50 UV protection, plus you won't get a rash from rubbing against your surfboard when paddling.

8) Don't wear bright colors like yellow and orange. Fish love them. "We used to call it Yum-Yum yellow," said Brian. Well, I don't know about you, but I don't want to be yum-yum for any fish.

9) If you can swim a couple of laps, do a couple of pushups and conquer your fear of falling off, you can surf.

Here's the one thing I didn't learn: Are there sharks in Galveston Bay? I don't know....and I don't want to know.

Friday night football, but no Frito Pie

I've been told that you haven't truly lived until you've watched a Texas high school football game. Well, apparently, I HAVEN'T lived, because not only have I never seen a Texas game, but I've never been to any American high school football games.

No, I haven't spent my life living in a cave. I just happened to have spent my high school years in Canada. So while we do play football, it's Saturday Night Hockey that we're passionate about (yeah...just like in that Mike Myer's movie "The Love Guru").

Anyway, this Friday I decide to crawl out of my cave and attend the season opener: North Shore versus Katy.

The first thing I noticed was that a lot of people go to these games. Don't laugh if I sound surprised, but I really was. I don't know what I was expecting, but after waiting in the parking line for 30 minutes, it suddenly hit me that this isn't a small event.

First of all, I had no idea that Katy and North Shore were the two biggest powerhouses in the Houston area. And secondly, I had no idea that the Katy Tigers held the state title. This game was a big deal.

Being Football Friday newbie, I also had no idea that it's not just the football players competing. It's the whole school. In fact, it's the battle of the bands, the battle of the cheerleaders and the battle of the pep squad (we don't have pep squads in Canada). Oh...and you can't forget the fans. I've never seen so many red T-shirts in one place.
Then there are my favorite fans. The die-hards. You know who they are. These are the dudes that aren't on the team, but go all out and paint their bodies the school colors. I love these guys. They don't care if their bathtub is going to have a red ring around it the next day. They don't care if they can't get the paint off - ever. They are in it for the team. Gotta love them!

About 30 minutes into the game, it occurred to me that Friday Night football is like the Super Bowl without the Rolling Stones or Usher playing at halftime. I was pumped.

But when I got back to office, it turns out I screwed up.

"Did you have Frito Pie?" my co-worker asked me. "Don't tell me you didn't try Frito pie."

Sadly, I don't know what Frito Pie is. I was so taken away with the game, I totally forgot the second-best part of football: the junky food.

Now, I've got to go to another game - just for the food. And you never know...if one of the die-hards call and want to paint me up for their team, I may give it go.