Jan 28, 08:33 PM |

I have a tough time really bringing the focus to a dedicated training schedule in January, especially when the snow if flying and the temps are low. The trainer? Not for me – not at all. It’s a tough thing to get the appropriate base training mileage and at the same time not do so much that come the distant August/September races one isn’t completely burned out, mentally or physically.

So, for me, January training is all about the fun – comradeship, scenery, the occasional Kobe beef hotdog and the more-than-occasional coffee break. Thankfully, I have a team that’s willing to help me with all those things.

Last weekend we put in some serious miles in the cold. All team rides are good, but this one was special because it was the first time Colin Murphy was sporting the full Embrocation team livery. It’s something I’ve been eagerly anticipating for quite some time.

My decision to get Colin on the team was justified yet again when at the top of the Oak Hill descent, Colin pulled up next to me and inquired whether or not my camera was running. “Of course.” I answered.

“You’re going to want to get this, then,” he replied. Colin always wants to push hard. It’s great.

Oak Hill Descent from EmbroJames on Vimeo.

This is a hill we normally go up. In fact, stay tuned for a TT up this road, coming your way sometime in the near future.

When we’re not bombing down hills, we have to keep this winter training thing interesting. Enter the road bunny hop. How bad-ass is this?

Bunnyhop Speedbumps from EmbroJames on Vimeo.

Ok. Not bad-ass at all. Not even a little bit. But good high-five action there.

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More this weekend, I’m sure. And stay tuned for updates on team equipment and sponsors in the coming weeks. It’s going to be good.