I'm new to IC3 and haven't been very successful in finding much going on in the Los Angeles area so far. I tentatively have on my schedule the Tour de Palm Springs in February and the Gran Fondo in San Diego in March. It would be great to meet up with some fellow members if anyone else plans on participating in either of these events.

All the best,
Matt Hawkesworth

Hello Matt,
Which ride were you planing to do in Palm Springs? I rode the century back about 8 years ago. I believe it was the first year there. I would like to ride it with you if we are compatable riders. What is your age, fitness level and the time you are aiming for.
All of GOD's blessings to you.
Mark

Mark,
I plan on riding the full 100 mile ride although it will be my first official century event. I have never ridden in a sanctioned ride such as this, but I regularly ride 75-100 miles with a local group in my area. I'm 36 years of age and ride for fun and do not race. I'm actually using this ride as a training ride for the San Diego Gran Fondo which is also a century, but with significant climbing. I don't know quite how to respond to the fitness level question other than to say I typically ride 125 - 200 miles per week and usually ride around an 18mph pace by myself over long distances. The pace for group rides is typically much faster. My goal at this point for the Palm Springs Century is to ride in around 6 hours which is comparable to my paced rides.

Matt

Hello again Matt,
Wow, you had a quick reply. I have only done three centuries in my life back when I could ride much more then I do now. I do plan on riding the 100 and I could ride along with you at the start but I don't believe I will be there with you in the end. I am logging 60 miles a week right now as I am I full time father, student and employee and I try to sneak in a ride when I can. I plan to ride a bunch during the Christmas and new years break and ramp up my mileage until the ride in February. You are in La Verne? I lived in Bellflower Ca for much of my life, but I live in Lake Elsinore now and for the past 8 years. When I am in Orange County I like to ride the Santa Ana river trail as it gives a traffic free ride from Corona to Huntington Beach. Looking forward to meeting you at the start of the ride.
Your brother in Christ,
Mark S Gumienny

Hello Matt,
Sorry it took so long to get back to you. I wont be riding the Tour de Palm Springs this year. I was very ill the month of January and rode very little. May you be blessed as you complete this ride and touch the lives of non-believers along the way.
Your brother in Christ,
Mark S Gumienny

Mark,
Are you still planning on riding in the Tour de Palm Springs?

Matt