The blood glucose logs, thoughts, and experiences of a type 1 diabetic husband, father, dad of a type 1, speaker, author, & endurance mountain bike competitor.
Showing posts with label racing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label racing. Show all posts
November 30, 2012
It certainly was a VERY HECTIC November! The celebration of World Diabetes Day on November 14th, and the 30 days of Diabetes Awareness Month kept us ALL hoping. Everyday gave us the wonderful opportunity to actively advocate for Diabetes causes. Some of the major highlights are:
Over at The Blue Heel Society we successfully participated in the 30 Day, 30 Posts National Health Blog Post challenge.
In response to being named one of the International Diabetes Federation World Diabetes Day Heroes, I wrote and published a blog post over at Insulet's Suite D site about us All Being Diabetes Heroes. If you have a moment take a look at it here:
Over at The Blue Heel Society we successfully participated in the 30 Day, 30 Posts National Health Blog Post challenge.
In response to being named one of the International Diabetes Federation World Diabetes Day Heroes, I wrote and published a blog post over at Insulet's Suite D site about us All Being Diabetes Heroes. If you have a moment take a look at it here:
The book by Dr. Beverly Adler, My Sweet Life: Successful Men With Diabetes, that I was so grateful to be asked to contributed a chapter to was published.
A team of 10 of us raced under the Blue Heel Society banner at an event called Rebel Race in Haverhill, MA. It was a 5k with 23 obstacles ranging from fire to barbed wire to 25 foot vertical walls. The event made a donation to a diabetes charity in the name of team. While there all of the team members met and spoke to a ton of people about diabetes. We will certainly be doing this, and other similar races, again! Look for a blog entry on Suite D shortly!
I was fortunate enough to be nominated for the 2012 WEGO Health Activist Hero Award. To be nominated and supported by members of the Diabetes Online Community is very humbling. I am SO grateful. Thank you!
In the middle of the month, I was asked to participate on a WEGO Roundtable discussion about Diabetes. It involved a few of us on a call-in basis, and a very active Twitter, radio, and online interactive audience. A summary of the discussion can be found here: http://blog.wegohealth.com/2012/11/14/roundtable-recap-diabetes-awareness-month/.
The Blue Heel Society launched its IRL (In Real Life) Luminary Campaign. The campaign provides free tools, aptly collected in The Shoebox, to people interested in leading advocacy campaigns in their local areas around the globe. The response has been overwhelming, and The Luminaries have already scheduled events starting now.
Along the same lines, The Blue Heel Society was also nominated by our friends in the DOC for the 2012 WEGO Health Best Ensemble Cast Award. All us involved with BHS where simply blown away by this honor.
From the bottom of our collective hearts, Thank You ALL for being a part of the most globally successful Diabetes Awareness Month ever!!
It is the hard work everyone of you do, the stories and experiences that each share, and the non-judgmental support and encouragement that we give each other that makes the DOC family so incredible.
Thank you.
Keep Choppin' everyone!!
November 10, 2012
July 31, 2012
Welcome home my friend. Special thanks to Glacier Cyclery of Whitefish, MT and Trek Bicycles of Raleigh for getting my Superfly back to me save and sound.
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I reassembled it, and road it around for a little while this evening.
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It felt perfect, and brought a smile to my face.
And tears to my eyes.
And with that, the adventure that is, or was, Tour Divide 2012 has come to a close.
Man.
It was fantastic. So far beyond what I expected it would be. I learned so much about myself.
Truly the best cycling event of my life.
Keep Choppin' everyone.
Just. Keep. Choppin'.
.JPG)
I reassembled it, and road it around for a little while this evening.
.JPG)
It felt perfect, and brought a smile to my face.
And tears to my eyes.
And with that, the adventure that is, or was, Tour Divide 2012 has come to a close.
Man.
It was fantastic. So far beyond what I expected it would be. I learned so much about myself.
Truly the best cycling event of my life.
Keep Choppin' everyone.
Just. Keep. Choppin'.
July 13, 2012
I didn't take many pictures during the trip, but this one I took in Canada about 50 miles from the start really struck me. It sums up the feeling of vastness and smallness of riding thought such immense terrain....
Just a bike & a guy with diabetes from Durham.....
- Posted using BlogPress using my iPad from somewhere in the universe
Just a bike & a guy with diabetes from Durham.....
- Posted using BlogPress using my iPad from somewhere in the universe
July 12, 2012
As I sit here with Diane back in Boston, I cannot even begin to express my emotions from the outpouring of message of encouragement, love, and well wishes from one and all.
The DOC is truly an amazing family. One I am blessed to be part of.
Although my foot is broken, I am awaiting a MRI in the next day or two, and I didn't achieve my goal of reaching the termination of the Tour Divide route I still feel successful.
I had 5 main goals for this years event:
- Pedal out of Banff, AB CA
- Get passed the place where I almost lost my life last year
- To reach the US in 2 days
- To get to the Mexico / NM border
- Raise awareness of all types of diabetes during the event
Four out of five of those goals have been completed. And for that I am grateful and happy.
Over the next couple of days I will be writing in more detail about the best aspects of this event - and there were tons - on this blog. There is much to share.
For this evening I really wanted to express my deepest thanks for always being there for me, especially over the past two years of Tour Divide attempts.
I am blessed to know the members of the Diabetes Online Community and am honored to be one of them.
- Posted using BlogPress using my iPad from somewhere in the universe
The DOC is truly an amazing family. One I am blessed to be part of.
Although my foot is broken, I am awaiting a MRI in the next day or two, and I didn't achieve my goal of reaching the termination of the Tour Divide route I still feel successful.
I had 5 main goals for this years event:
- Pedal out of Banff, AB CA
- Get passed the place where I almost lost my life last year
- To reach the US in 2 days
- To get to the Mexico / NM border
- Raise awareness of all types of diabetes during the event
Four out of five of those goals have been completed. And for that I am grateful and happy.
Over the next couple of days I will be writing in more detail about the best aspects of this event - and there were tons - on this blog. There is much to share.
For this evening I really wanted to express my deepest thanks for always being there for me, especially over the past two years of Tour Divide attempts.
I am blessed to know the members of the Diabetes Online Community and am honored to be one of them.
- Posted using BlogPress using my iPad from somewhere in the universe
July 1, 2012
June 27, 2012
Type 1 Diabetes meets it match on Tour Divide
SUMMARY:
Tony Cervati takes another year of preparation and leaves Banff, AB CA on July 8th for his second attempt at finishing the 2750 mile event.
Tony Cervati a.k.a. Type1Rider, is a man with Type 1 diabetes and will be leaving everything behind again to bike the longest, most dangerous, unsanctioned mountain bike trail on the planet, the Tour Divide. This year, he will be also be making stops along the route, to visit with various Hospitals and Diabetes Care Centers.
During the past two years we've seen two different people with diabetes share a dream and a goal, and smash the misconception of barriers erected by Type 1 Diabetes.
In 2011 Tony Cervati became the first person with Type 1 diabetes to attempt the Tour Divide, the longest mountain bike race in the world. Although he didn't reach the finish, Tony's efforts and preparation paved the way for Athletes with diabetes to re-examine what type of endurance events are indeed possible.
This year Jarral Ryder, another individual faced with Type 1 diabetes, followed that lead and became the first person with the condition to complete the Tour Divide race. Congratulations to Jarral for an outstanding race, and an amazing effort, your accomplishment will forever change the scope of diabetes related athletics!
Tour Divide is a 2,745-mile bicycle race down the spine of the Continental Divide, full of peril, ups and downs, and calm flat and smooth patches all mixed together. A large percentage of riders who start the race each year never complete it, due to injury, bike damage, or simple exhaustion.
About Type1Rider:
Tony Cervati is Type1Rider and the father of two boys, and has battled type 1 diabetes for more than 35 years. He is an active member of the Diabetes Online Community (DOC), and is known for his blogs about being an endurance mountain bike racer. Tony uses social media and Twitter to post his blood glucose readings, and lives openly about his day to day management with type 1 diabetes. You can follow Tony on Twitter @type1rider or read his blogs at www.type1rider.org.
About Tour Divide:
The Tour Divide challenge is simple: Race the rooftop of North America by mountain bike; travel self-supported along all 2,745 miles of Adventure Cycling Association's Great Divide Mountain Bike Route; keep moving and be moved; exist well outside one's comfort zone in tackling a cross-continent bikepacking odyssey; finish as fast as possible without cracking.
For more information:
Type1Rider.org Blogsite:
http://www.type1rider.org
Type1Rider on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/TonyCervatiIsType1Rider
https://www.facebook.com/TheType1RiderOrganization
Type1Rider on Twitter:
http://twitter.com/type1rider
Email: Tony@Type1Rider.org
Phone: (323)743-3781
- Posted using BlogPress using my iPad from somewhere in the universe
SUMMARY:
Tony Cervati takes another year of preparation and leaves Banff, AB CA on July 8th for his second attempt at finishing the 2750 mile event.
Tony Cervati a.k.a. Type1Rider, is a man with Type 1 diabetes and will be leaving everything behind again to bike the longest, most dangerous, unsanctioned mountain bike trail on the planet, the Tour Divide. This year, he will be also be making stops along the route, to visit with various Hospitals and Diabetes Care Centers.
During the past two years we've seen two different people with diabetes share a dream and a goal, and smash the misconception of barriers erected by Type 1 Diabetes.
In 2011 Tony Cervati became the first person with Type 1 diabetes to attempt the Tour Divide, the longest mountain bike race in the world. Although he didn't reach the finish, Tony's efforts and preparation paved the way for Athletes with diabetes to re-examine what type of endurance events are indeed possible.
This year Jarral Ryder, another individual faced with Type 1 diabetes, followed that lead and became the first person with the condition to complete the Tour Divide race. Congratulations to Jarral for an outstanding race, and an amazing effort, your accomplishment will forever change the scope of diabetes related athletics!
Tour Divide is a 2,745-mile bicycle race down the spine of the Continental Divide, full of peril, ups and downs, and calm flat and smooth patches all mixed together. A large percentage of riders who start the race each year never complete it, due to injury, bike damage, or simple exhaustion.
About Type1Rider:
Tony Cervati is Type1Rider and the father of two boys, and has battled type 1 diabetes for more than 35 years. He is an active member of the Diabetes Online Community (DOC), and is known for his blogs about being an endurance mountain bike racer. Tony uses social media and Twitter to post his blood glucose readings, and lives openly about his day to day management with type 1 diabetes. You can follow Tony on Twitter @type1rider or read his blogs at www.type1rider.org.
About Tour Divide:
The Tour Divide challenge is simple: Race the rooftop of North America by mountain bike; travel self-supported along all 2,745 miles of Adventure Cycling Association's Great Divide Mountain Bike Route; keep moving and be moved; exist well outside one's comfort zone in tackling a cross-continent bikepacking odyssey; finish as fast as possible without cracking.
For more information:
Type1Rider.org Blogsite:
http://www.type1rider.org
Type1Rider on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/TonyCervatiIsType1Rider
https://www.facebook.com/TheType1RiderOrganization
Type1Rider on Twitter:
http://twitter.com/type1rider
Email: Tony@Type1Rider.org
Phone: (323)743-3781
- Posted using BlogPress using my iPad from somewhere in the universe
June 22, 2011
Going over last details for first 6 days of Tour Divide. Mapping target towns for each day, confirming routes and reroutes, and fine tuning the packing.
I am trying not to let "fear" of the unknown in terms of diabetes control dictate my packing. How much fast acting do you need for 12-14 hours in the saddle?? LOL!!
I have also managed to get ALL of my diabetes supplies into on small Pelican case. In this box is 3 vials of humalog, a pediatric humalog pen, 5 OmniPods, 2 pod filling needles, my spare PDM, a bunch of Skin Tac Wipes, and 150 test strips.
The advantages the OmniPod presents is CLEARY visible. So much less stuff.
I am carrying a GPS with the course on it, but navigation will be done via the Adventure Cycling Assoc. maps and the substitute re-route cues provided by Tour Divide organizers.
I am also becoming more aware of my seemingly MOST important piece of equipment:
My bear bell. DO NOT STARTLE bears. :)
I am under 18 hours to go before I role out of Banff. I hope to be back in the US (God willing) by Saturday night. From there, just day by day right?? :)
I am hoping to do one last TwitCast before bed tonight.
Thanks again everyone. This will be some adventure. :)
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
I am trying not to let "fear" of the unknown in terms of diabetes control dictate my packing. How much fast acting do you need for 12-14 hours in the saddle?? LOL!!
I have also managed to get ALL of my diabetes supplies into on small Pelican case. In this box is 3 vials of humalog, a pediatric humalog pen, 5 OmniPods, 2 pod filling needles, my spare PDM, a bunch of Skin Tac Wipes, and 150 test strips.
The advantages the OmniPod presents is CLEARY visible. So much less stuff.
I am carrying a GPS with the course on it, but navigation will be done via the Adventure Cycling Assoc. maps and the substitute re-route cues provided by Tour Divide organizers.
I am also becoming more aware of my seemingly MOST important piece of equipment:
My bear bell. DO NOT STARTLE bears. :)
I am under 18 hours to go before I role out of Banff. I hope to be back in the US (God willing) by Saturday night. From there, just day by day right?? :)
I am hoping to do one last TwitCast before bed tonight.
Thanks again everyone. This will be some adventure. :)
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
June 10, 2011
I have been using an insulin pump since 2005, and switched to the Deltec Cozmo in April of 2008. Although it was one of the lesser know brands, I liked the pump's unique features and how those items would most directly benefit me on the bicycle for the racing at hand.
As we know, sales of the Cozmo was halted in 2009. Existing customers are supported through the end of their warranty periods, but no new pumps are being sold. I had no acted upon the "upgrade" and "switch" offers from other manufactures, as the benefits and familiarity the Coz offered still out weighed the desire to switch.
Until now. Until Tour Divide.
Over the past couple of weeks I began to investigate other pump technologies as I forced to warranty replace my Cozmo twice. Also the collection of connected blood glucose meters that I have for the device have been failing one by one.
I was able to demo my first device of choice and it worked flawlessly under all conditions. I was a little surprised at just how well it performed under difficult conditions considering the results I had the first time I demoed one a few years ago. The changes to the adhesion characteristics of the device has made ALL the difference. The system is now PERFECT.
With that, I switched to using the Insulet OmniPod insulin management system full time today.
In terms of helping with Tour Divide, the lack of tubing connecting the insulin to a infusion set has made wearing different types of backpacks and gear storage configurations possible. Also, a LARGE driving force for this switch was the sheer compactness of the entire unit. The OmniPod system devices store in approx. 1/2 the space of other pump technologies. This will make packing all the diabetes items needed for Tour Divide just that much easier.
Yes, a little risky or unusual to make a hardware change this close to a major event. Granted. However, the device proved to be extremely reliable during the demo and rides, and I feel the reward of space savings negates the risk.
Now I JUST need to come up with a new name.... Sorry Gomer. The times are a changin'.
:)
As we know, sales of the Cozmo was halted in 2009. Existing customers are supported through the end of their warranty periods, but no new pumps are being sold. I had no acted upon the "upgrade" and "switch" offers from other manufactures, as the benefits and familiarity the Coz offered still out weighed the desire to switch.
Until now. Until Tour Divide.
Over the past couple of weeks I began to investigate other pump technologies as I forced to warranty replace my Cozmo twice. Also the collection of connected blood glucose meters that I have for the device have been failing one by one.
I was able to demo my first device of choice and it worked flawlessly under all conditions. I was a little surprised at just how well it performed under difficult conditions considering the results I had the first time I demoed one a few years ago. The changes to the adhesion characteristics of the device has made ALL the difference. The system is now PERFECT.
With that, I switched to using the Insulet OmniPod insulin management system full time today.
In terms of helping with Tour Divide, the lack of tubing connecting the insulin to a infusion set has made wearing different types of backpacks and gear storage configurations possible. Also, a LARGE driving force for this switch was the sheer compactness of the entire unit. The OmniPod system devices store in approx. 1/2 the space of other pump technologies. This will make packing all the diabetes items needed for Tour Divide just that much easier.
Yes, a little risky or unusual to make a hardware change this close to a major event. Granted. However, the device proved to be extremely reliable during the demo and rides, and I feel the reward of space savings negates the risk.
Now I JUST need to come up with a new name.... Sorry Gomer. The times are a changin'.
:)
December 24, 2010
A HUGE thank you to Jeff, Dave, and Ryan at Trek Bicycles of Raleigh for this early Christmas gift. I really cannot express how much I appreciate it.
Swapped to a temp longer stem just so I could go for a ride/race with J. :) I STILL can't beat him.
Hope to get sine quality time on it this weekend. Very quick first impressions:
The 2x10 drivetrain is so unbelievably sweet. Gear changes are instant, especially up front. I mean, they feel 3x faster then the X0 3x9 of last year.
X0 brakes are amazing. Feel more positive than the Elixer's of last year. Of course break to come.
Didn't ride it long. All next week off, and I can't WAIT!!
Hope to have it more setup (tubeless, diff tires, I9s, etc) by next week.
Integrated chain stay protector is a nice touch. Same as the carbon armor on the down tube. All the RXL lettering is blacked out - wheels, seatpost, stem, etc. The saddle looks like it might be a winner to. Similar to my Evolve road saddle I love.
It still always makes me so excited to get a bike. Nothing - NOTHING - better.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Swapped to a temp longer stem just so I could go for a ride/race with J. :) I STILL can't beat him.
Hope to get sine quality time on it this weekend. Very quick first impressions:
The 2x10 drivetrain is so unbelievably sweet. Gear changes are instant, especially up front. I mean, they feel 3x faster then the X0 3x9 of last year.
X0 brakes are amazing. Feel more positive than the Elixer's of last year. Of course break to come.
Didn't ride it long. All next week off, and I can't WAIT!!
Hope to have it more setup (tubeless, diff tires, I9s, etc) by next week.
Integrated chain stay protector is a nice touch. Same as the carbon armor on the down tube. All the RXL lettering is blacked out - wheels, seatpost, stem, etc. The saddle looks like it might be a winner to. Similar to my Evolve road saddle I love.
It still always makes me so excited to get a bike. Nothing - NOTHING - better.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
December 22, 2010
I have just submitted the required Letter of Intent to participate in the 2011 Tour Divide. Although not posted on the Tour Divide site yet, it reads as follows:
Since founding the Type1Rider organization in 2005 I have lived all aspects of my life as a Type 1 diabetic with the covers removed. I have transparently used endurance mountain bike racing and training to further my personal mission of raising awareness, promoting education, providing support, and fostering encouragement for all people affected by this relentless disease. During this time I have shared via posts and during speaking engagements all the highs and lows (literally), the victories and defeats, and everything I do, feel, and have learned about living with this disease since being diagnosed with it 34 years ago.
Over the past 20 months I have been quietly working with a tight knit group of supporters on the logistics of possibly competing in the Tour Divide as a pump wearing juvenile diabetic. While I know the challenges will be immense, there is no denying the rewards would be insurmountable. Participating in a race such as this would completely shatter all doubt surrounding any person living with diabetes.
Over the years I have spoken to 1000s of people affected by diabetes, and have witnessed first hand the terrible and deep running effects this disease has on individuals and families alike. All of their experiences are eerily similar - living with diabetes makes “control” sometimes seem unattainable and fear a constant companion.
My dream and focus is to foster an understanding that those affected can successfully live with this disease, to help people with diabetes conquer their fears, and to better manage the issues that it brings to our daily lives. To have them truly believe that diabetes is indeed manageable, and, with that, comes a world without personal limits.
In my mind, completing the Tour Divide would indeed make a historic diabetic statement, and prove to each and every diabetic out there that they do, indeed, have control. Every single pedal stroke and step I take along the 2745 mile route will be traveled with the other 24,000,000 Americans that have diabetes.
Of course an undertaking of this stature cannot be attempted without personal passion and conviction. This race is something I feel I have been, in one way or another, actually been preparing for my entire life. All of my experiences and interactions have led me down this path. While many view endurance races as opportunities to beat a field of other riders, it has always been to me much more about testing myself and beating this disease.
I do hereby state I will be lining up in Banff on June 10th, and, along with the band of other riders, and the spirit of TPG, competing in the 2011 Tour Divide.
I am now ALL IN and an officially entered in the 2011 version of this event.
November 3, 2010
I am Finally getting around to making an entry about the Saturday Oct. 30th 12 Hour Mountain Bike Race Simulation Field Study I was the subject for. An event which some friends named the "1st Annual Tony Cervati Invitational Classic". I guess you need to be name Tony Cervati to race in it? Too bad there was no "prizes"....
Ride Hours: 11:47
Insulin Delivery Summary:
Daily Total: 25.98 units
Meal: 6.50u
Corr: 2.50u
Basal: 16.98u
Daily Carb Intake Bolused For: 86g
The "race" took place in Chapel Hill, NC at the Carolina North Trail system. It was done in support of Chris Newport's Master's Thesis which is focusing on Type 1 Diabetic Endurance Athletic Nutrition. Chris has been guiding me for over a year now, and is THE key factor in getting my on the bike nutriton nailed down.
We tracked my diet and insulin usage for 48 hours prior through 48 hours post event. During the field study, which ran from 9am-9pm, we employed technology including the Abbott Navigator CGM and Cyclops PowerTap hub to monitor, in high detail, calorie intake, wattage, cadence, speed, miles, vertical feet, temp, humitidy, blood glucose, heart rate, core temp, weight, hydration, and electorlyte levels.
These measurements will give a pretty good picture of exactly how my body is working at any given point during a long day in the saddle. For me, this is absolutely invaluable as I prepare to race the 2800 mile Tour Divide in June. Also, although I have been working on the TD attempt in one capacity or another for 18 months, I consider this study to be the first official step towards Banff Canada.
I was VERY nervous about the ride, more so than a race, given the fact I felt Chris had been working through 2 years of school to get to this day. I went to bed Friday night thinking "Don't wake up low.. Don't wake up low...", so much so that I under bolused for a bedtime snack on purpose.
I was WIDE awake at 03:40 running a BG of 193. I took a breath and told myself to just do what I always do and it will work out. I bolused for this slight high, but never did get back to sleep.
At 06:53 my BG was a picture perfect 81, and the Navigator sensor I had inserted at 21:15 last night was soon ready for its first calibration. BG at a 78 at 07:11.
I ate breakfast and was monitoring my BG tightly. At 07:25 I was a 76. I set my target BG in my insulin pump to a 150 (instead of its normal 100) at this time, and, since I was so nervous, set my pre-ride temp basal at a 60% reduction. A little early, but I really wanted to be good to go by 09:00.
I got the site at the trail head a litte after 08:10, and got the camp site setup just as I would for a normal race day. Going to ride for 90 minute laps on the various trails, and then check in to grab the data. The temps were a little on the chilly side Saturday morning (high 40s), but the weather for the day could not have been more perfect!
The most humorous part of the data collection was the Specific Gravity of Urine test. I mean I have been friends with Chris and her husband Jay for a long time, but I never handed her a urine specimin before. In the doctor's off PLENTY of times, but this just seemed a little... um.... different. We all laughed about it for a while, but it did just become part of the groove after 5, or 6, or 7 hours. :)
I was VERY fortunate to have some great friends come out and ride with me for the majority of the day. A big thanks to Jay, Pryde, and George for riding with me and keeping it fun. These dudes are mega fast and had me on my toes and hustling all day long. THANKS!!!
I tried to stay on the usual 20oz of water mixed with Maltodextrose and Nuun every hour, and 20-40g of Carbs total per hour. I did fall behind on the hydration early and then later in day, but all in all it worked out great!
BGs rocked all day. I had the low alarm on the Nav set at 60, and the high alarm set to 180. Average was 124, with no reading outside of target during the 12 hour ride.
Only issue I had was a mistake I made around 13:30. I had set a 60% reduction for 6 hours at 7:30. Since I normally don't go to a temp basal until 60 minutes before ride start, I had missed the switch to a 70% reduction at 13:30. I thought I had until 14;00. So for about 30 minutes there, I was running a full on basal rate 4.5hrs into pedaling. I set the temp basal of 70% reduction right after 14:00. If you take a look at the image above your can see how this made a dip in the BGs begining right around the 13:30 time frame. Exercise induced insulin sensitivity right there.
I was able to catch it with a few extra carbs, and you can also see on the graph that I over compensated a touch. Not horrid, and better safe then sorry, but still. A smidge too much.
The rest of the ride went without incident and I was SO STOKED at the end of the ride at 20:47 with a blood glucose of 111. I was tweeted "Diabetes - who's your DADDY?!?!?". A great day in the saddle!!
Once I stopped I immediately set my basal rate back to normal, and bolused 4.5u to try and head off the normal post ride BG spike. Wasn't sure if that was going to be enough, but it worked out well.
Some of the first stats about the ride is that I covered about 86 miles todal, with 72 miles coming on single track. Burned 10,800 calories, and went over 5300ft in vertical. More data will follow as it becomes available.
Post "race" my BGs were 95 at 23:15, 111 at 23:22, and then 133 at midnight when I went to bed. No correction for any of these of course.
As is usual I set a post ride over nite temp basal of 65% as active for 7 hours and hit the hay.
Today turned out great!! I can't wait to see what we are able to learn, and then figure out how to apply it to racing the Tour Divide.
Ride Hours: 11:47
Insulin Delivery Summary:
Daily Total: 25.98 units
Meal: 6.50u
Corr: 2.50u
Basal: 16.98u
Daily Carb Intake Bolused For: 86g
The "race" took place in Chapel Hill, NC at the Carolina North Trail system. It was done in support of Chris Newport's Master's Thesis which is focusing on Type 1 Diabetic Endurance Athletic Nutrition. Chris has been guiding me for over a year now, and is THE key factor in getting my on the bike nutriton nailed down.
We tracked my diet and insulin usage for 48 hours prior through 48 hours post event. During the field study, which ran from 9am-9pm, we employed technology including the Abbott Navigator CGM and Cyclops PowerTap hub to monitor, in high detail, calorie intake, wattage, cadence, speed, miles, vertical feet, temp, humitidy, blood glucose, heart rate, core temp, weight, hydration, and electorlyte levels.
These measurements will give a pretty good picture of exactly how my body is working at any given point during a long day in the saddle. For me, this is absolutely invaluable as I prepare to race the 2800 mile Tour Divide in June. Also, although I have been working on the TD attempt in one capacity or another for 18 months, I consider this study to be the first official step towards Banff Canada.
I was VERY nervous about the ride, more so than a race, given the fact I felt Chris had been working through 2 years of school to get to this day. I went to bed Friday night thinking "Don't wake up low.. Don't wake up low...", so much so that I under bolused for a bedtime snack on purpose.
I was WIDE awake at 03:40 running a BG of 193. I took a breath and told myself to just do what I always do and it will work out. I bolused for this slight high, but never did get back to sleep.
At 06:53 my BG was a picture perfect 81, and the Navigator sensor I had inserted at 21:15 last night was soon ready for its first calibration. BG at a 78 at 07:11.
I ate breakfast and was monitoring my BG tightly. At 07:25 I was a 76. I set my target BG in my insulin pump to a 150 (instead of its normal 100) at this time, and, since I was so nervous, set my pre-ride temp basal at a 60% reduction. A little early, but I really wanted to be good to go by 09:00.
I got the site at the trail head a litte after 08:10, and got the camp site setup just as I would for a normal race day. Going to ride for 90 minute laps on the various trails, and then check in to grab the data. The temps were a little on the chilly side Saturday morning (high 40s), but the weather for the day could not have been more perfect!
The most humorous part of the data collection was the Specific Gravity of Urine test. I mean I have been friends with Chris and her husband Jay for a long time, but I never handed her a urine specimin before. In the doctor's off PLENTY of times, but this just seemed a little... um.... different. We all laughed about it for a while, but it did just become part of the groove after 5, or 6, or 7 hours. :)
I was VERY fortunate to have some great friends come out and ride with me for the majority of the day. A big thanks to Jay, Pryde, and George for riding with me and keeping it fun. These dudes are mega fast and had me on my toes and hustling all day long. THANKS!!!
I tried to stay on the usual 20oz of water mixed with Maltodextrose and Nuun every hour, and 20-40g of Carbs total per hour. I did fall behind on the hydration early and then later in day, but all in all it worked out great!
BGs rocked all day. I had the low alarm on the Nav set at 60, and the high alarm set to 180. Average was 124, with no reading outside of target during the 12 hour ride.
Only issue I had was a mistake I made around 13:30. I had set a 60% reduction for 6 hours at 7:30. Since I normally don't go to a temp basal until 60 minutes before ride start, I had missed the switch to a 70% reduction at 13:30. I thought I had until 14;00. So for about 30 minutes there, I was running a full on basal rate 4.5hrs into pedaling. I set the temp basal of 70% reduction right after 14:00. If you take a look at the image above your can see how this made a dip in the BGs begining right around the 13:30 time frame. Exercise induced insulin sensitivity right there.
I was able to catch it with a few extra carbs, and you can also see on the graph that I over compensated a touch. Not horrid, and better safe then sorry, but still. A smidge too much.
The rest of the ride went without incident and I was SO STOKED at the end of the ride at 20:47 with a blood glucose of 111. I was tweeted "Diabetes - who's your DADDY?!?!?". A great day in the saddle!!
Once I stopped I immediately set my basal rate back to normal, and bolused 4.5u to try and head off the normal post ride BG spike. Wasn't sure if that was going to be enough, but it worked out well.
Some of the first stats about the ride is that I covered about 86 miles todal, with 72 miles coming on single track. Burned 10,800 calories, and went over 5300ft in vertical. More data will follow as it becomes available.
Post "race" my BGs were 95 at 23:15, 111 at 23:22, and then 133 at midnight when I went to bed. No correction for any of these of course.
As is usual I set a post ride over nite temp basal of 65% as active for 7 hours and hit the hay.
Today turned out great!! I can't wait to see what we are able to learn, and then figure out how to apply it to racing the Tour Divide.
August 22, 2010
It is heartbreaking to say that the arm injury I received last night was worse that I had anticipated.
Although the discomfort was manageable, my wrist, hand, and fingers on my left arm went completely number near the end of the first lap.
I was unable to feel the grip, use the front brake, or make front gear changes.
I attempted to ride lap 2 with only my right hand, but that was not great as I ended up putting the bike on the ground a couple of times.
Luckily my support person was there to drive home, as my hand and fingers are still numb - can't do anything - open door, grip a cup, nothing.
Although bitterly disappointed I know Accidents happen, and I will race another day. 2010 has been so much more trying than i could have even imagined.
I hope the rest of my 29er Crew teammates have a great conclusion to their race. It was amazing seeing everyone there!!
A special shout to Danelle and Greg!! Good luck in the second half!!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Although the discomfort was manageable, my wrist, hand, and fingers on my left arm went completely number near the end of the first lap.
I was unable to feel the grip, use the front brake, or make front gear changes.
I attempted to ride lap 2 with only my right hand, but that was not great as I ended up putting the bike on the ground a couple of times.
Luckily my support person was there to drive home, as my hand and fingers are still numb - can't do anything - open door, grip a cup, nothing.
Although bitterly disappointed I know Accidents happen, and I will race another day. 2010 has been so much more trying than i could have even imagined.
I hope the rest of my 29er Crew teammates have a great conclusion to their race. It was amazing seeing everyone there!!
A special shout to Danelle and Greg!! Good luck in the second half!!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
August 21, 2010
Funny how the outcome of the race could possibly come down to air-bubbles in the tubing. That's what I was thinking as I filled an insulin pump reservoir this morning.
I have inserted two new infusion sets too. One is there as a back-up in case a fall (or other incident such as catching my tubing on a tree branch) occurs, resulting in the current infusion set getting ripped out.
As the photo shows, I have plenty of spare "parts" ready to. This includes another filled reservoir, batteries, an infusion set, 2 meters, a syringe, spare tubing, and a bunch of extra strips.
All neatly packed into little cases.
I look like a cyborg today too - with the aforementioned double infusion sets and the Nav sensor, along with double ace bandage wrapped forearms covering the injury dressing, as well as the bandage covering the Td and antibiotic injections.
What I really need to do is get some espresso, and that's up next.
I have inserted two new infusion sets too. One is there as a back-up in case a fall (or other incident such as catching my tubing on a tree branch) occurs, resulting in the current infusion set getting ripped out.
As the photo shows, I have plenty of spare "parts" ready to. This includes another filled reservoir, batteries, an infusion set, 2 meters, a syringe, spare tubing, and a bunch of extra strips.
All neatly packed into little cases.
I look like a cyborg today too - with the aforementioned double infusion sets and the Nav sensor, along with double ace bandage wrapped forearms covering the injury dressing, as well as the bandage covering the Td and antibiotic injections.
What I really need to do is get some espresso, and that's up next.
August 3, 2010
July 11, 2010
June 14, 2010
48 hours post race, and I'm still not back to myself. Stomach still isn't right, but getting better. Headache finally went away at work today (go figure).
I just don't feel like moving though. At all.
That over heating incident hit me a lot harder then I first thought. Hopefully in the next day or two I can get back to normal. I hope.
For now rest and some xbox in the air conditioning is in order.
I was scheduled to start on Symlin today, but given the fact I'm not quite right I decieded to wait. Maybe tomorrow or Wednesday, depending on how I'm feeling.
I am a little, um, what's the word.... nervous (I guess) about the new addition to the diabetes therapy. My BGs have been great, and race nutrition is nailed down tight. What I am hoping for is the ability to use less insulin, and, in turn, drop a handful of lb's.
As usual I'll keep posting about how it is going - the good, the bad, and the possibly ugly of course.
Also waiting on the paperwork to get processed for my insurance to cover my Navigator sensors. I REALLY want to be able to use this tool on race and training days, so I have my fingers crossed. Should know something in a week or two... possibly.
Matt Lee WAY out front in the Tour Divide, and Cricket Butler is hammering away as well. Keep rockin' it you two!!! Amazing work!!!!
Also wanted to give big props to Ernesto Marenchin for winning the Big Bear 2x12 this past weekend. Ernesto is a great guy, trains like a mad man, and is hella fast. He broke his leg at this venue last year, and finished out front this year. Congrats on a long deserved victory!!!
It's been an unbelievably bizarre race season. I have trained harder, and concentrated on my diet and nutrition more these past 8 months than I ever had. Thanks to the help from Chris Newport and Chris Eatough I feel faster and more in control than I could have ever imagined.
But... the race results just have come through as I have expected due to unusual and unplanned circumstances. Infusion set pull out and no spare, monsoon and tornado warnings, tragic loss of a dear friend, heat stroke.... you name it.
Sometimes it goes like that whether you are dealing with life, racing, or diabetes control. What's critically important is to continue to stay focused and flexible, and try to learn what you can from each "weird" event. Take that knowledge and use it as an advantage the next time your encounter a similar situation.
Control what you can. Be ready to deal with which you cannot. As I mentioned... diabetes and mountain bike racing is the same in that regard.
I do however have an 8 week break until my next race, so I plan on doing a little cross training, trying to find an oppurtunity to go on a date (or two even), and getting some over due things done around the house. I need a little down time I think.....
Lots going on though as is usual.... just couldn't have it any other way.
Just keep choppin'.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone.
I just don't feel like moving though. At all.
That over heating incident hit me a lot harder then I first thought. Hopefully in the next day or two I can get back to normal. I hope.
For now rest and some xbox in the air conditioning is in order.
I was scheduled to start on Symlin today, but given the fact I'm not quite right I decieded to wait. Maybe tomorrow or Wednesday, depending on how I'm feeling.
I am a little, um, what's the word.... nervous (I guess) about the new addition to the diabetes therapy. My BGs have been great, and race nutrition is nailed down tight. What I am hoping for is the ability to use less insulin, and, in turn, drop a handful of lb's.
As usual I'll keep posting about how it is going - the good, the bad, and the possibly ugly of course.
Also waiting on the paperwork to get processed for my insurance to cover my Navigator sensors. I REALLY want to be able to use this tool on race and training days, so I have my fingers crossed. Should know something in a week or two... possibly.
Matt Lee WAY out front in the Tour Divide, and Cricket Butler is hammering away as well. Keep rockin' it you two!!! Amazing work!!!!
Also wanted to give big props to Ernesto Marenchin for winning the Big Bear 2x12 this past weekend. Ernesto is a great guy, trains like a mad man, and is hella fast. He broke his leg at this venue last year, and finished out front this year. Congrats on a long deserved victory!!!
It's been an unbelievably bizarre race season. I have trained harder, and concentrated on my diet and nutrition more these past 8 months than I ever had. Thanks to the help from Chris Newport and Chris Eatough I feel faster and more in control than I could have ever imagined.
But... the race results just have come through as I have expected due to unusual and unplanned circumstances. Infusion set pull out and no spare, monsoon and tornado warnings, tragic loss of a dear friend, heat stroke.... you name it.
Sometimes it goes like that whether you are dealing with life, racing, or diabetes control. What's critically important is to continue to stay focused and flexible, and try to learn what you can from each "weird" event. Take that knowledge and use it as an advantage the next time your encounter a similar situation.
Control what you can. Be ready to deal with which you cannot. As I mentioned... diabetes and mountain bike racing is the same in that regard.
I do however have an 8 week break until my next race, so I plan on doing a little cross training, trying to find an oppurtunity to go on a date (or two even), and getting some over due things done around the house. I need a little down time I think.....
Lots going on though as is usual.... just couldn't have it any other way.
Just keep choppin'.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone.
June 12, 2010
Half way point. Recoreded at 1 lap behind leader, but I think it's 2.
BGs have been perfect. I mean unreal perfect. Nutrition, and hydration too, actually, are spot on. Tough to eat. Been liquid only for past 2 hours.
Bad news is I am seriously over heated. It's hot and I am not in a good way right now. Gotta find some ice...
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
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