Tap's

So-Cal Winning

2011-03-28T10:59:00.000-07:00

Where do I start this post.....

Alright, so first off I guess I lost to Paul Mach in the cyclist Blog off.. But I do want to thank Rand Miller for his continued support.

But the most exciting part of my weekend was watching my teammate take the yellow jersey and overall win at San Diams stage race.

Nick Newcomb won the 3.8mile Hill Climb up Glendora mountain road by 1second. After some dangerous moves went and came back in the road race he and I were both in the lead group making the 40 man selection. A few laps later I lead him out for a bonus sprint to increase his overall lead.

Going into the final days criterium he had a 3 second Gap on second place. I rode the front at a steady tempo keeping it strung out and safe on the very narrow course.But in the closing laps Nick got caught up behind a crash, I sat up and waited for him as Alec (another teammate) Drug him to my wheel. With 2 laps to go I was drilling it in the gutter trying to get Nick back to the front, and with half a lap to go my job was done.

Nick Kept the jersey taking his first overall win of the season. It was a great weekend of racing and nothing is better than walking away with the victory.

Up next is Apple pie Where I hope to grab my final upgrade points.

Looking Back / Ahead..

2011-03-15T19:27:00.000-07:00

I would first like to thank Paul Mach for mentioning me in most recent blog post, It means a lot. But it is true, I am a very social/popular person. So popular that I almost have more fans than Paul Mach and Max Jenkins combined!

Both of these guys are amazing both on and off the bike. I want to thank both of them for letting me tag along on their rides because suffering on their wheels has made me who I am today!

Next months race schedule:
April 3rd - Apple Pie Crit
April 16th-17th - Sea otter Classic
April 23rd - Copperopolis Road Race

You only turn 19 once!

2011-03-08T10:03:00.000-08:00

This race is known for bring out some strong numbers and riders not to mention the voice of USA cycling Dave Towle.

Well this race was honestly a last minute decision on my part. I was unsure of what to do on my birthday, But with a little convincing from my buddies I decided why not go to a bike race and try for the big WIN.

The race course for this year was a little different from years past, shortening the course by about half a mile I would say. This course was P shaped with a U-Turn at the far end of the course with about 700 meters to go.

No matter how big the race is there is always a mad dash to the start line. I waited a little to long after they called us up, but still managed a front row start with a little skill and sweet talking they let me in.

This was a 36 lap race so I was a little concerned when the pace was blistering right off the bat. I Rode around the group trying to stay relaxed as a small group of three slipped away early on with hopes that a team with numbers would bring it back later in the race.

About 10 lap into there was a reshuffle in the break, 2 of the same guys from earlier (The Clement Brothers) and Viatjoski and myself. We all seemed to be working well until Dave (the announcer) called out a $75 prime.The NOW MS rider (D. Clement) attacked, I covered it quickly as we railed it into the 180 degree turn. with 300 meters to go he unleashed a Savage sprint and I sat up and rode back into the field.

With about 20 laps to go the break had once again been re-shuffled. With the two brothers and A Teni-Duro kid dangling at about 20 seconds off the front. I sat on my hands buying my time with my fingers crossed that we would get organized soon.

But with 14 laps to go the group of 3 was still off the front hold strong at 20 second. Team Specialized began to get nervous and with 12 to go the went to the front and drilled it for about two laps. But that didn't seem to dent the lead. Coming out of the U-turn I could see everyone was tired and thought I would try and make it across.

I jumped and heard the crowd screaming as I rode by with my head down getting ready to enter the pain cave. I could see the group just making the turn ahead of me, and we were once again approaching the 180. I took it a little hot and rode all the way to the curb and made the junction. As we crossed the start finish line Dave Towle went crazy yelling out "TAPLEY HAS MADE THE JUNCTURE, WHAT A RIDE TO JUMP ACROSS ALONE!"

A few laps later a small group of 3 made connection with us. As we saw 2 to go I knew I had to save a little energy for the sprint yet still continue working so we didn't get caught. Coming across the line for the Bell lap I was sitting at the back just watching everyone knowing who could out sprint me. Going into the U-Turn Clement drilled it but nobody was gonna let him get away. I moved up to forth wheel and the sprint started. I just could come around anyone and took 4th place.

I was later told by a friend that Dave Towle Picked me for the win out of our 7 man break , So I say he jinxed me! haha

In the end we still had a 16 second gap on the chasing field. I was really happy With the result and showed that I am ready for Madera this coming weekend!

Not what I was expexting

2011-03-04T07:35:00.001-08:00

race:Dinuba criterium

cat: elite 3

field: ~30

teammates: n/a

result:8th

So after two hard days of racing I was pretty tired, but high off the teams success I decided to race a third day.

The course was shaped like a fat L, with a dip in the road at about 300meters to go and a massive tail wind sprint. The weather was nice and the field was the same size it had been all week. I started off just riding around the top 15 guys until some how, a guy overlapped wheels and crashed himself out. I decided it was time to move up and about mid way through the race I began to feel the last two days.

With 3 to go I was sitting comfortably in the top 10 just buying my time. When we came around for the bell lap I was sitting second wheel, a little further to the front then I wanted but still great positioning. The guy on the front had two teammates behind me so I had my fingers crossed he was gonna drag me all the way to the line. But with two turns to go he sat up and a group of 7 guys came shooting by me on the left. I jumped in behind them and out of the final turn I couldn't come around anyone.

It was nice to see that after two solid days of racing, I could still ride hard at the front. It was a great weekend for us as a team and I can't wait for Madera.

Getting ready!

2011-02-17T21:35:00.001-08:00

I'm getting ready for what should be a fun weekend in Fresno with my teammates. The weather looks to be epic and my legs feel good so we shall see how the race place outs for us.

Check me out on twitter for more through out this season http://twitter.com/tapinator !

Whats Next

2011-02-11T20:48:00.000-08:00

Well I didn't quite have it last weekend at Cherry Pie, but that's racing for you. I am taking this week off to prepare for our team camp (part 2) which will be held in Fresno, combined with Pine flats and Cantua creek road races. I have not had the chance of doing either of these races, and I am looking forward to riding with guys in what will be our first TEAM race of this season.

After that we have two stages races (Madera & San Dimas) in March that we will be contending as a team followed by some local criteriums.

That's all I have for now.. Check out my Twitter http://twitter.com/tapinator for more updates!

Peace

Cal Aggie Crit

2011-02-01T08:00:00.000-08:00

Well what can I say, Cal Aggie Criterium is always a blast. In the Elite 3's race I rode near the front to stay away from all the mid-pack chaos. I attacked a few times towards the end but everyone just wanted a field sprint, and would immediately chase me down. So I found Nick K. my new teammate and pulled him all the way to the front with one to go. I was just glad to finish up right, with the roads being slick and everyone wanting to win the first race of the season disaster was around every corner.

In the P1,2,3 race I once again chose to ride near the front, with hopes of sneaking into the days winning break. Early on a break of 4 got away and I was sitting on my hands just wanting to try and get across. The break was strong and Cal Giant was represented. I knew if I was to just sit back and buy my time somebody else would notice that They (Cal Giant) were blocking and that move wasn't coming back. With half the race to go I went hard trying to get across, but the attempt was short lived. The Staz was tacked right on my wheel and S-Bass and I were not gonna drag him across to the move. With only 2 laps to go I gave it another go as Hernando was just dangling off the front, hoping I could some how sneak into the top ten. But that attempt was again short lived with all the sprinters lining it up. I finished 28th overall but I am still waiting to see where I placed out of the cat 3's still left in the field shattered across Land Park.

My legs felt good and I am looking forward to Cherry Pie crit this coming weekend!

Team Profile

2011-01-12T22:34:00.001-08:00

Hey guys,

My profile is up on the teams website, and camp is just around the corner.

Check it out..

http://www.wholeathlete.com/team_athletes_cody.html

Photos of the new kit to come!

2011 Team Announcement

2010-12-20T21:24:00.000-08:00

Check out this cool article listing the 2011 team roster.

http://www.cyclingnews.com/news/whole-athlete-and-specialized-team-to-back-development-team

Pretty pumped for what is going to be an awesome season!

Its only just begun

2010-12-09T21:15:00.000-08:00

Training has just started to pick up and I am already exited for the racing to get started. With it being less than a month away before the first event of the season I can only hope that I will be in good shape to steal those early season points I need so bad.

2011

2010-11-15T15:09:00.000-08:00

Its a new season and a fresh start. This will be my first season out of the junior ranks. Follow me through the 2011 season here all year long starting now.

Worlds

2010-03-14T09:33:00.000-07:00

The Wednesday worlds start this coming wed and I hope it will be a huge turn out! Same time as normal and the same course, Lets see if we can break the course record this year!

Gettin Started

2009-12-29T15:59:00.000-08:00

Im finally back on the road bike!Today I found myself climbing the hills in Vacaville With Chris Stastny of the California berry Giants u-23 team.It was only 2.5 hours but it felt good to be back out on the road despite the cold weather and my two flats.
My plans have changed a little bit for this year since this will be my final season as a junior.I hope to place highly in specific races and most of all work as a team.
LET THE 2010 SEASON BEGIN !!

On The Road Again

2009-11-04T19:09:00.000-08:00

Well today was my first day back on the road bike and man was it hard.I had no problems keeping up on the hills but suffered like no other on the flat sections.I really suffered trying to hang with the big boys and I think Ill be paying for today's hard efforts,Tomorrow!I'm hoping things will improve quickly now that I have more free time and since I was told that shammy time does not qualify for training time if your sitting on the couch watching races in your bib shorts.
Great winter training plan !!

Going No Where Fast!

2009-10-30T12:32:00.000-07:00

I had no idea how I was gonna feel on my first long ride back.I started off telling my self lets go 10 miles then it went to 20 then next thing I know I'm in winters having already rode 20 miles.So by the time I cut through and got home I had rode 46miles and man did it take forever...
I felt like I was going so slow at 200watts.The best part is now I get to train with my friends now that I have a more compliant work schedule.Here is the latest photo from my last cross race,heading to a strong second place In the Mens B on a very technical course.

Did You Miss Me ?

2009-10-17T20:13:00.000-07:00

No!,okay,
Anyways I'm back and ready to start base training real soon.Hopefully Ill see you guys out on the road!

TT

2009-07-23T09:23:00.000-07:00

I had a good time last night with a 23:06 but I still feel like there is room for improvement.With nationals approaching quickly I'm gonna try to squeeze in some TT time before heading off to Bend.The nationals course has a hill on the way out and down hill on the way back.I don't get to practice many TTs like that but with the experience gained at Red River I think Ill do okay.

Best of luck to all those who are fighting it out at cascade ....

one week to go

2009-07-22T08:28:00.000-07:00

Nationals are coming up in the next few weeks so im trying to take it easy.With a idea of how the races will go im confident that if I race for myself in the road race all will be well.I have big hope for nationals this year and hope that my climbing is good enough to hang with the top guys.Ive decided to skip cascade to recover from my trip to Kentucky.With a lot of people riding cascade I hope that it will make me that much fresher for the 3 days of racing to come at the end of this month.I don't really know the weather in Bend,Oregon but if its like Kentucky then im not to worried.Zach also has high aspirations for nationals this year and I hope to help him in the crit.Now to finish watching the tour and just relax before I leave next week.

making a comeback

2009-07-20T07:50:00.000-07:00

Hey im getting this train back on track...
Ive been to lazy with this blog due to twitter .

Wednesday Worlds

2009-04-09T21:13:00.000-07:00

The first time ever on my TT Rig was painful.Not to mention that Zach,Chris and I walked all around downtown for hours,we all had a pretty ruff day.I put out a 24:19 only 18 seconds behind Zach and Staz delivered the best time out of the 3 of us with a 23 something .Time Trailing is painful but actually seems kinda fun.If only I could be as fast as the Freund kids.I think i may actually ride my TT bike more often now.They just look fast.

Some Footage

2009-04-07T21:51:00.000-07:00

This was at the beginning of the 09 season
Hope you enjoy !!

Rain Drops Kept Falling On My Head

2009-04-07T21:29:00.000-07:00

So today was the usual Aggie ride and even though it was clear when we started I knew it was bound to pour any second.With rain jacket on and about 30 people behind me we ventured off campus.The ride got fast early and i had no problems on the first sprint.The second sprint was what i was waiting for.Approaching the hill by the lake i moved up on the left and just went.I looked back and at first i saw nobody,then Judd moved out from behind my wheel and pulled through.I thought for sure i was gonna blow up and get dropped by the move I started as the group of riders past me where it beings to flatten out .As the group of 7 came towards the bridge I sat up and coasted in for 4th not even trying to out sprint those who sat on .On the final sprint back in towards campus going over the tracks I got a flat in the pouring rain and stood there with no one in sight as the lead group rolled away.I could only think about how Zach felt the last three time he got flats ,except I was soaking wet an, cold and all by myself.I hope the rain stops for this weekend,but if it did then it wouldn't be real bike racing would it ?

Welcome

2009-04-05T21:32:00.000-07:00

Hello and welcome to my blog.For those who haven't noticed there is a box located on the right side of the page near the bottom called followers.The box is For you to join and follow my blog or maybe you think I post something good every now and then,then click it and follow me through the 2009 cycling season.Triumphs and disasters you ll here it all here at Taps "The Epic Tales Of Cody Tapley"

Thanks for visiting !!!

Hope you follow...

Throw down

2009-04-04T20:13:00.000-07:00

Today was fun as I ventured to Napa to race in the Elite 3s.I showed up ready to go for the (elusive) DUB with teammates Carl and Keith who both could out sprint me even if it was a good day.The race was fast andstrung out with people dropping pretty fast.I stayed near the front to avoid gaps and crashes .But there were crashes every lap at the front and all over the group.Every lap was a fight for survival to dodge some human bowling pins try to squeeze themselfs into a gap that obviously doesn't exist.I got to admit i did get a little bit timid after seeing all those crashes.One lap 3 guys slid out near the front ,I had no where to go except up The curb, then bunny hop off the curb and chase back on to avoid going down or getting caught up in the mess.

Keith finished 3rd and Carl crashed with four to go. I settled for a pack finish do to the fact that my small boy parts couldn't Handel the Manley testosterone being thrown down in the race.Maybe the term Sack UP Is in order!

Pain City

2009-04-02T20:39:00.000-07:00

So in Davis we have the local Tuesday ,Thursday race rides .Lots of people show up ready to race for three sprints spaced over 50 some odd miles.Being a junior i have a 52/14 and most people on the ride have 53/12's or 11's.Zach and I along with snoves and former junior (now superstar) Staz showed up ready to go .Phil mooney who rides for Metro mint cycling team (weak tro mint)shows up quiet often .Phil s only goal is to put Zach and I in the cave by making us spin are 14's at 300 rpm's(not really but at 35 + mphs it sure feels fast).Phil is a animal by any ones standards .The ride ended with Zach and I tearing the group apart (with the help of Staz and Snoves)trying to chase down the Break.Phil put so much hurt into my legs i will be living in Pain City for several days.

TIPS TO RIDING WITH PHIL :
1)Draft him and don't pull through (he will continue to accelerate and drop you)
2)let others chase him down(No one can)
3)Pray its a off or rest day (that means under 35 but above 32 mph)
4)attack him (he will counter and take you to the suffer cave)
5) when it gets fast pretend to get a flat.
6)Phil shows no pain so don't waste efforts trying to weaken him.
7)sack up and ride your bike !!!

Good luck !!!

12 mph

2009-04-02T20:22:00.000-07:00

The junior race at Land Park was not what i expected.A early break went and Zach made the bridge no problem.No one chased(weird ,we are juniors ,full of energy).I blocked (at 12 mph sitting on the front in the hoods getting yelled at by other juniors to speed up and chase it down ) the majority of the race and as the gap opened i hoped that Z made it all worth while.
Z got screwed over by the motor ref. in the end but what ever ,Zach will win so many big races later in the year( districts or nationals ).
The next day was Bariani road race and as normal it was super windy. I rode well ,felling good until a small gap opened in front of me on the 3rd lap and i just couldn't pedal 30mph in a head wind by myself.what ever ,who cares about non hilly road races anyways haha .Just another weekend of good bike racing !!

Not much .

2009-03-14T11:30:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted anything lately do to the fact that there was nothing interesting to tell you guys about.so let me give you guys a update.

1)I got a new bike.Look 595 with Sram red weighing in at just about 16 pounds

2)I raced at Merco criterium where i was announced as one of the heavy hitters in the junior race,I missed the break and rode the front for 20 some odd laps trying to chase it down with no help from anyone.I did split the chase group into pieces but the ones who remained had riders in the break.

3)I also raced the 3s in the crit and road race .Both were extremely fun .I learned alot real quick about the 3s.

4)I also completed my first 1,2,3 race( 60 minutes on 1.2 mile course ) .It was so smooth.I cant wait to do another race like that.

so that's pretty much it besides hammering down on the race rides life is good.

Another one bites the dust !

2009-02-11T07:57:00.000-08:00

Yeah most of you heard about me chance to meet the infamous ground at cherry pie.The race wasn't fast by all means.The race organizers added a new part to the course that i find stupid and crash prone from the start.Just before the climb to the finish they added a right-left chicane with a center divide. I sat comfortably in the group feeling my cold every pedal stroke we made.The group was huge and a lot of inexperienced riders were still in the large 10 - 18 junior group.With three to go we entered the chicane and a rider 4 guys to my left freaked out and took me and three specialized riders down . I got up and my knees were hurting .Steve yelled to go get my free lap but with the lap card out my day was over.The specialized guys and I were pretty mad non the less but thats racing for ya!I iced the knees and they seem to be doing good but the cold still lingers .With the TOC junior crit ahead i hope i can get better soon.congrats to all who finished the race next year its revenge on the pie.

On Fire Out With A Cold !

2009-02-03T11:28:00.000-08:00

After the recent success of the team and I , I have received a lot of compliments like, "Your on fire" or"Your gonna be hard to beat this year".But yesterday I woke up felling sick.I had a stuffy nose and coughing just a little bit.I hope this will pass quick and not disrupt my training .

The fire may be put out ! we shall see.

Thank You !!!

2009-02-01T11:18:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to say thanks to all the Juniors once again for working hard and most importantly riding like a team!Look like we have a great year ahead of us DBC

later ,Taps

Cal Aggie (DBC Domination)

2009-01-31T18:46:00.000-08:00

Man it was cold at 8 in the morn.The junior team came out for the Cal Aggie crit with a very talented Field ready to race.At the line jokes were exchanged between my good friend Daniel f. and I. Once the bell rang it was strictly down to racing.In the past if i had to describe my riding style in two words it would have been Aggressive and off the back!This year i have changed my ways to being strong and Conservative(Patience is a better word) .I sat on Zach's wheel for the first few laps just covering early moves.I snagged a early prime to test the legs.The race would go hard then come back together so it didn't splinter out as much as i had predicted.Aj,Robby and Torey all did a fair share of work on or off the front.With about five to go i told Daniel that a break was bound to go .With 3 laps to go after Zach had scored a prime Daniels teammate rolled off the front and i jumped to his wheel .I passed him going into the s bends and opened a large gap.I put my head down and hit the gas.As i passed the line for the bell i felt as if i was gonna puke so i kept my bottle instead of tossing it to the side.I rolled down the back side and went through the s bends and saw a group of 3 closing so i jumped it hard!Going into the final sharp turn Zach yells " go Cody get on my wheel!"We have 500 to go and I'm hanging on to Zach's wheel and came around his savage lead out with 150m to go and with hands raised DBC goes 1,2,3 at the line sweeping the junior podium!We all talked about the race later and split the prizes but Aj ,Zach and I still had one more race!What i hope to be my final 4s race was sketchy ,i took care of Aj the whole race waiting for the time to set him up for the sprint.With 3 to go i moved AJ to the front and I fell back as my legs were saying "ouch !"to the 34mph tempo!Aj drifted back but finished in the back of the pack.with the day almost over i sat and watched Staz win his first Pro race then headed hometired and very happy with the teams result!

Early Bird Road Race 09

2009-01-24T16:33:00.000-08:00

So i woke up at 4:30 and headed out the door.When we arrived it was wet and foggy.I began to get ready for my warm up and the sun was coming out.I warmed up with the Freund family and talked over the plan.My goal for the day was to get in the lead break that everybody told me about.As we rode to the start line i stripped layers and moments latter we were off.The pace wasn't real fast but there were a lot of attacks right off the back.2 riders went away early on and people got antsy.I sat near the middle of the pack with Alex F. as they eventually brought them back .As we hit the steep part of the climb the group shattered and 3 guys slipped away.I rode with the second group on the road .I rode second wheel most of the climb letting others do the work,Alex had already gotten dropped on the climb.As we made the turn around i knew it would be a wicked fast and sketch descent.I was spun out the whole time and was aero one every straight away of the descent. We were gaining ground on the lead group of 3 but no one would really dedicate to the chase.After some words (by me)people started committing to the chase .when we caught them we still had a long ways to go.(48 miles out and back)I rotated with the other guys going 2 wide through gravel and mud covered corners.We got toward the finish and i sat out the last 2 rotations to save some energy.We saw the 2 k sign and a Godspeed rider who had sat in the whole time was dangling just off the front.With 1 k to go A rider from Touchstone jumped and a mouse rider followed,I was boxed on the right behind a webcore guy.With 400m to go i nudged my way threw and sprinted my way past the mouse rider but the touchstone rider was to fast or just in a better position.I ended up in second place which puts me that much closer to my 3's upgrade.

Winter Training

2009-01-23T22:04:00.000-08:00

lately Ive been riding with Zach and Chris and we thought we would have good weather on our next ride.But no ! our sweet little spring weather is gone and the rain was evident during are ride with Janice on Thursday.I'm just trying to be ready for the early season races and so far its looking good.Z and Chris are good training partners and without them i would be the Taps i was at the start of last season.We had fun getting muddy and racing for the koms and sprints for the first time in awhile .Well I'm racing tomorrow and i think it will rain i hope it doesn't but if it does so what .I have been told that the course suites me and i should make the lead group.We will see what happens and i may race the crit on Sunday.Good luck to all who will be out there both days!!!

cross racing

2009-01-06T18:14:00.000-08:00

Last weekend i went to Sutters landing to give Cyclocross a try.I rode three of 5 laps with the lead group and on the final lap of the C 's race me chain blew.The wicked course got me hooked and I'm planning to do one more race before it ends. The best part was that i ran my bike the whole last lap getting passed by every single rider .Cold and sandy i loved it !

San Bruno

2009-01-06T17:46:00.000-08:00

So i woke up early and hit the rode with my dad.The trip there seemed shorter than last year but i also felt a lot stronger.I arrived to the race before reg. opened and found Mike Hernandez standing behind me.After done with reg. i saw Andreas and Alex pull up. We got on our bike with about 1.5hours till mass start.We rode for what felt like forever up a little loop 3 blocks from the start line.One side a uphill the other and down hill.We stopped riding with about 25 minutes till start to lose clothes and take a leak.I rolled to the line chatting away with good friends DanielF. and Tisdell.We got confronted by the ladies in front of us because we flew around them last year.I was wearing nothing but a base layer and arm warmers like andreas,everybody else was covered in clothing.The race started off fast and i followed the wheels going to the front.Staz sat 3rd for the majority of the climb.The mass start had most of the juniors in the group with the pro 1-2s .I got dropped from the mass ( all combined fields) lead group with 1 mile to go and could only see Andreas in front of me.I looked back to see Farinha on Tisdells wheel. We rode together with Andreas just ahead.Farinha was struggling and drifting back, but Tisdell put in a attack and dropped Farinha but i came up beside him and rode my tempo hopeing Farinha wouldn't come back.I looked back and i had dropped Tisdell as well and 2 other guys from the 3's.I rode every corner as if it was the last.Through the fog i finally found the final bend and set up after passing the line.I saw Andreas just coming to a stop and asked him how long he had been at the top.Andreas rode to victory with a 16:47 and i came in close 3rd with a 17:09 just ahead of Tisdell and Farinha .Staz rocketed up the hill with the pros and out kicked Rob Anderson For 5Th .Aj did well with a 20:33 finishing just a little behind his dad .The race was cold , fun and a good way to start the new year !

Jesse clinic

2008-12-10T15:14:00.000-08:00

Man was it cold in the morning.With lots off people i didn't know there i was worried who i would get paired up with for the drills.But threw the fog i saw Bruno and knew i was now safe from sketchiness.There were a lot of fun drills that Jesse and Tyler showed us. Most of it being review and practice and other things that i didn't even think about doing,like opening the cap to your water bottle when feeding so it doesn't hit your riders hand hard and fall and so if it does fall the riders can run right over it no problem.The Sumo fight and wheel sanding was the most fun.My dad crashed twice in the grass trying to pick his bottle off the ground.there were a lot of crashes in the wet grass but threw the hysteria i stayed upright till the end of the freakin cold day!

Night ridi'n

2008-12-10T08:24:00.000-08:00

Last night was cold and fast.There were 8 guys on the Freund Family ride so we had a nice draft.The ride was fast as usual .We hit the hill and i was on the front once again.Andreas,Roland,Alex and Doug drove the pace.I sat at the back recovering from my hard pull at the start.I got dropped once again at the final steep part .once at the top i put on my vest and head down the climb.A car was coming up the hill and i was flying past someone.I got around the car but forgot about the turn and went in to hot.I did a TDF save and rode into the gravel and stayed upright.Despite the laughter and cold face it was a good ride and would recommend it to anybody who wants to be fast.

Another day in the saddle

2008-12-04T22:00:00.001-08:00

Today i rode for 3.5 hours with El Gigante & Staz up to steel canyon and back. The whole ride we were taking layers on and off.The weather is not great but its do able.The best part was the descent were we couldn't go fast than 40 mph before thinking about becoming a human Popsicle .I Won the Climb to Brasstown Bald and Staz dominated the downhill sprint in his 12.The ride seemed long but all in all we had a great time joking around and trying to pass the time.I wish we had a team care with heaters ,drinks and warm fresh clothes to give and take!Something like this so my pockets aren't so full i cant carry any food!!

Arrrg where is there any time

2008-12-03T22:46:00.000-08:00

This year is my junior year and its no walk in the park.In between School and work i still find time to ride my bike.To get that time in it sometimes comes in the cold package of night!I rode with Andreas and little Alex yesterday and man was it cold.I thought i was overdressed but the boys had as much clothing as me ,2 layers and knee warmers and i had shoe warmers on to.With fog every 2 minutes and the cold wind i still had fun climbing The "colte de Cantellow" at night.I cant wait for the time change so i don't have to use a light and lug it around every ride.

Movie Releases

2008-11-27T20:45:00.000-08:00

I have made 2 movies and I'm ready to release 1 real soon.The Second movie is in production and i cant wait to finish it.The first one is a unique trip to San Fran. where we skidded down steep hills and rode across the golden gate bridge . good times!The second one I'm keeping under wraps .But many Juniors are involved in the movie!Its good bonding for us as a team being on the bike but just having fun.
I'll be sure to keep you guys updated on the progress.
If you want to be involved there are many part that need to be filled .Just shoot me a comment or give me a call !
Behind the Scenes:

Crazy bikes

2008-11-27T20:38:00.000-08:00

This is the future of cycling as we know it!!
Cool rims 20 in

Big Chance at TOC

2008-11-22T20:15:00.000-08:00

This year I have a unique chance to race in the tour of California stage 2 circuit in Davis . There will be a crit. in Davis where stage 2 starts this year open to juniors and women .This will hopefully bring national talent to Davis .Personally that is now a targeted race for me and the junior team.with this big of a race so early that would be a good way to kick off the season !

Riding With Pros

2008-11-22T20:01:00.000-08:00

So Ive been riding a lot more than last year at this time and Ive had the chance to ride with a couple of pros recently.These guys are fast and we've been doing about 70 plus miles each ride up and down hills .So they aren't paid pros but they are categorized pros .Chris ,Zach and I have been riding like crazy and i can feel it.The best part is having someone to ride with threw the long cold days.Chris,Zach and I have had some good times together and thats just some of many to come with the speed we are going now !!

Beating Up Masters

2008-11-08T11:48:00.000-08:00

Today's Wheelworks ride was cold and i was surprised to see that there was a large group of people ready to ride.The juniors were well represented with Alex w,Alex f,Zach , Andreas and I. My only goal for today was dish out as much pain to the masters as i could.DBC juniors took 1,2,4 in the first sprint. the ride to cantellow was good and a small break dangled in front of the pack.Alex and Zach set me up like Sartre from csc on the climb and i rode away with a group of 5. Near the top i was going hard and Fred had cracked and i was in the cave.I cracked right before the end and finished behind o the other three.But the mission was successful since i cracked and beat DBC master FWS .

Crazy Adventures

2008-11-08T11:39:00.000-08:00

So Alex,Chris,Zach and I went to Rock ville park to experience some fun. The weather was cold and very very wet.Every pedal stroke threw mud into your face.We rode some sweet trails and had a lot of fun slipping and falling in the mud.We rode around for about 3 hours looking for insane trails .The rain never seemed to stop and on are way out of the park we were covered in mud with shoes full of water and formally white shorts now black.We realized when cleaning off that none of us had brought a towel and rode back muddy wet and laughing about the day.

Races Are Won Here!

2008-10-30T19:30:00.000-07:00

As Johan said,"people don't see this, this is where the races are won ,riding in the rain."And that's exactly what Staz , Zach and I did pounding it out in the rain ."Winter is always better" Zach said on the way back today soaking wet. These are the best of times !!

winter is a comming

2008-10-28T19:21:00.000-07:00

The weather is defiantly colder than a few days ago .Its time to bring out all the gear for the old chilly afternoons.Rolling off in Mike Sayers old team kit

If you dont like the cold

2008-10-11T15:05:00.000-07:00

If you hate the cold and stay inside to ride the trainers with the heater on full blast. these will allow you to ride outside with the warmth of the heater.

parker sent me this on facebook what great training gear huh?

Winter is only for the strong!

2008-10-11T14:45:00.000-07:00

Today was the annual wheelworks Saturday race ride.Today the gruppeto was stacked. Brandon Trafton was there and so was Keith hillier from mad cat cycling team .The pace was fast in the 20 mph cross/headwind .the croup split up quick and guys were shelled like crazy.Little Alex Freund won all three sprints.the hill is where all maters and me and Keith dulled it out as he dropped me on the final steep part of the climb.I worked breaks and attacked several time to string it out for the sprint.This was winter training at its best in the cold wind blowing you from side to side.

well better now than later

2008-10-11T14:39:00.000-07:00

Well this week i rode out to the wheel works tt with my boss Joe.Afterward the tt i rode to Zach s bike to get my school bike. on the way there i hit a double big ass pothole and swept me to the ground.not fun. fortunately Zach didn't laugh at me as i made fun of my self for crashing 3 blocks from home.

Stage 3

2008-09-15T21:27:00.000-07:00

Wow.What a great course . A 1.3 mile circuit with a uphill and a hairpin turn.The race was fast with the help of the masters who strung it out.I sat on Bruno's wheel the entire race wile j.Hall and J.Snoves just ahead.The other Justin moved me up with 2 to go and saved me from this horrible crash.Aj wasn't so fortunate,he ran over a guys wrist and Fred was stuck behind. With 1 lap to go i was on brunos wheel with the lead out train a chugging.Last corner on the uphill with about 500 to go 2 guys jumped and the sprint we3nt shortly after.I endeed up 9th in the circuit and 4th in the GC ,3 points off 3rd.Thanks for all the help and all the support without the teams help this wouldnt have been possible. Thanks Everyone
Sincerely , TAPS (premie)

Stage 2

2008-09-15T21:14:00.000-07:00

Stage 2 was a crit on a flat fast course.The ref. let all the juniors go early which was dumb.I set out all the rotations and held my own at the front. i saw aj 8 laps in and asked him to move up now in the top ten i found the GC leader (Joey Galloway ) and marked him the rest of the race. Aj and i went thought on the last lap 1st and 2nd wheel aj had been to close to the front for to long and had no gas and I was left to my own devices.A small gap opened up around 2 corners to go and a metro mint guy set up in front of me and we were bumping at the curb. By the time i came around i had just beat Joey "The Galloping"Galloway in the sprint for 16th . A okay day but the guy that won the crit. had gotten 7th in the tt and was not on my watch list . well now he is.Aj had a great ride and helped me move up several times when it got slow .Thanks bud.

last lap dig by Aj with me on his wheel and the eventual winner in 4th

My Dad's New Tattoo

2008-09-12T21:30:00.000-07:00

Here it is tell me what you think?

Stage 1

2008-09-12T21:19:00.000-07:00

The opening stage was a 10 mile tt with 3 hills or steep rollers .The ride was good at 26 on the way out with a nice cross wind.I caught my 30 second man 2.5 miles in and my 1 minute man before the turn around . the way back felt like a headwind . But photographer Mark Adkisons cheers made me want to go faster .I after passing him i felt a little sick and was spitting up bits of my junk.I finally passed my minute and a half man before the 1 mile to go sign.i finished with 24:04 for fourth place and AJ was not far behind with 24:27 using my tt helmet and front aero wheel.I think Torey took the juniors but left before the result were posted , don't blame him it was 2 and a half hours before any results were posted .Good job DBC juniors .(Pictures coming soon)

GoodBye to our beloved coach !!

2008-09-07T20:53:00.000-07:00

Steve is departing from the team and he has done so much for Davis junior race team.when i first rode my bike with Steve it was 15 miles a hour on the old country road which felt like forever.With his support and input i am who i am today.A loyal , strong and willing member of the DBC Junior Team.

Thanks Steve .
We'll miss you

Benicia Criterium

2008-09-07T20:38:00.000-07:00

So i thought that this would be a day to take the sprint to Aj and give him his first Dub.Before the start Brandon Crashton and Howard showed up .with it being a 15-18 crit. i knew it would be fast .Brandon kept attacking and Howard was blocking the field. I let others chase stuff down .mid race there was a small but hard crash .A kid from Swift tried to flick Snoves to take his wheel and missed and with his momentum flung himself onto the ground and taking Snoves down with him.Snoves got back in and with one to go it slowed down with Howard out and Crashton on the front going into the hill i opened it up so Snoves didn't lose position. with 300 or 250 to go Sam Bolster went off and won the field sprint and snoves got fifth.

last time up : Snoves on my wheel mid crit :

Dunnigan hills road race

2008-09-07T20:26:00.000-07:00

Well the race wasn't easy .Early on we set Alex off the front with two swift kids .Andreas and I began the blocking and no one was chasing. Andreas and I kept trying to cover all the moves that went up the road when Allister slipped away.Swift couldn't shut it down so Andreas attacked and was brought back and I countered and broke away.I saw a guy from swift was more than half was across and the pack wasn't chasing so i eased off and let him on but half a mile later Andreas came by me and we got on his wheel .NOW a group of three we tried to chase Allister down. on the descent we caught him and left him in the dust.Remember were 4-6 on the road the three are still away and have a 2 minute gap over us and 5 on the pack.Near the finish on the cross tailwind section we were hauling , but as we turned over the bridge we fanned out 3 wide looking at each other.Andreas lead it out and Cambell started the sprint.Andreas came around him and i finished on Andreas wheel.Alex F. took the win out sprinting the two swift boys and Andreas 4Th,I got6Th and Aj finished top ten .

TT's are the worst

2008-08-29T23:29:00.000-07:00

ever since my email was passed around i have been harassed by people about my tt abilities .with the season ending on the new Buckley course i have yet to break the 23 minute marker there .this week i was back at 24:40 on a windy but more of a suckish day.with night closing in on the race ride and tt i hope that it will haappen soon. (before im 17)

The End Is Near

2008-08-29T23:24:00.000-07:00

with the season coming quickly to an end im in search of a win. ill be putting the cards down Sunday and Monday to see how the team will assist me .For the road race Andreas , Alex and Snoves will join me in the journey of "Done no hills road race."on Monday me and Snoves have hope of a podium and with his sprint and my final lap speed and attacks we will see how it will all unfold.

The Start Of Something New

2008-08-20T20:45:00.000-07:00

This maybe a familiar phrase to you.... yes , no ? Okay this is from high school musical and it has reminded me of how much the team and i have improved through out the season.Lets recap this year for ya. lets just get to the good stuff , Alex breaks his collar bone on a Jesse planed ride . Cody works hard with Robby to keep the race together for the team . Andreas finishes second in the field sprint getting beaten by Peter Taylor.Alex freund wins the road race 13-14s. Cody finishes 9th with Robby not far behind.Crits went well with Alex f. claiming a second title.Again Cody tries to keep the race together for a field sprint where Zach thinks he can win.Cody solos last 1.5 laps and is caught on one of the last corners and Zach gets robbed in the sprint and settles for second.Chris always finds the break but fought to hang on to Huffman wheel and dbc gets 2nd and 3rd .Alex f. gets all 3 titles this year and Andreas gets 2nd in the tt and Zach a little further down. Track districts were amazing when Again Alex F. claims another title making it four in one year . Andreas gets second and Cody gets fifth. Fourth of July ,Cody buries himself on the first lap for Alex to attack , The finish is one we shall not be reminded of .Nationals Zach tries for the crit but gets boxed in the sprint and finishes in the top 10.Alex wick gets sick and fights to stay race ready.Alex F. fishes second in the tt by one 10th of a second.and tried to go solo in the crit but failed.The road race went all right but Huffman screwed Taylor in the final part of the race.Zach getting crashed and Andreas getting pulled it was not the best of dbc races. With the season ending we have all the memories of these epic events . With most of the 17 -18 yr old guys gone it will be Zach and I representing . Next year I hope That we will have more stories to tell of even bigger battles and epic event .

Thanks for all the laughs and what a great season and we hope that will go out with a bang at Dunnigan !!!

Wrapping up the season

2008-08-19T14:11:00.000-07:00

This weekend was abnormal for me. On Saturday i raced in Winters ad got 5Th but i was hopping for the podium when blunted by my teammates attack.Forcing me to sit back and let the podium spots drift away.But Sunday was the race i wanted to win .Warming up i knew my legs didn't fell super great. A few laps in I attacked and was solo for 5 laps and receiving a prime .After they caught me i worked hard to get off the front knowing i cant win a race in a field sprint.I bridged to a break that had been away for 3 laps and the guy was pretty much done but my solo bridge jump started the break.We stayed away for 3 more laps. 2 laps after they caught us i sprinted for a prime when at the last second a rider past me and took the prime.We rode 2 laps off the front and with 10 to go it was now for sure a field sprint. i kept getting jacked in the corners and couldn't hold my position.I just gave up and finished in the pack no need to crash out on the last lap mid pack.
solo with a nice gap mid race

TAPS steps to winning:
1) Stay near the front but not off the front.
2)conservation is the key
3)positioning in the final laps
4)SACK UP
Once i learn to properly execute these steps watch out for Taps in the closing laps just like i did at crit. districts .

Setting The Bar Higher & Higher

2008-08-15T00:04:00.001-07:00

The usual Wednesday time trial was on my agenda and i brought teammate Snoves with me . As we rolled out from my house we both knew that today was not gonna be fun. The start sucked as my chain blew off and cossetted me 20 to 30 seconds .I caught Aj a mile and a half in and had all ready passed my 2 and a half minute man by the turn around .On the way back my legs weren't turning that big gear and after passing my 3 and a half minute man i sprinted to the finish.I ended up with 24:27 another PR but just shy of were i wanted to be.Aj finished strong but said he had a bad day .We all do , for instance take Cadels TT in this years tour( what a joke ).In the end it was just more miles to end the season tally .

The Masters Of The Sport

2008-08-12T15:44:00.000-07:00

Fred , Jason E. , Jason S. , Alan , Chris , Carl , Mike , EOB , Brain , Steve N.All of these guys have made me who i am Today . All the hurt you guys put on me little body has paid off .
THANKS , your guys are truly the Masters

Double Weekend

2008-08-12T15:03:00.000-07:00

On Saturday was a twilight crit called Carrera De San Rafael.The race started off fast with a field of 100 i was nervous. The field was destroyed on lap 1 and gaps were large.I took advantage of the situation and tried to establish a break .I took 5 guys with me and we poured on the gas .We were out in front 6 laps which felt like forever.I found Tim at front when being caught and set on his wheel . Two wheels back were Jason and Carl.I was setting good and felling great With 10 to go the field was down to just 40 some odd riders . With 3 to go i found Tim's wheel and we set comfortable in the pack . I realized that it was to fast and to late to move up anymore.I Finished 32nd and Tim finished 29th with Carl and Jason in the top 20 ( 3rd and 12th ) . The next day was Esparto a 18 mile individual time trial . The ride started off good and was surprised that my legs felt this good. On the way back the legs died and i Dropped speed .I finished 10th with a 48 time But i would have gotten 12th in the pro race but there were only 13 riders so i can only dream when i will race like those guys. All in all the weekend was good and I'm glad to here that the other juniors were showing DBC colors at Nats.

Wednesday Worlds

2008-07-30T19:55:00.000-07:00

Today it was me and Stastny repin the juniors .the wind was brutal and tough. The way out was a 20 -22 mph tempo just trying to get to the turn around . I caught Emily foxman 2 miles in and caught my minute man on the way back not far after the turn around.I ended up with 24:49 which was 7 seconds better than my last PR. Even though it was winder i am really satisfied with the ride . Stastny got 23:3 something he was aiming for under 23 but the wind will get us every time.

With Hopes And Dreams...

2008-07-24T13:54:00.001-07:00

At the beginning of the season team director Steve wick put his hopes on me to win the Jr. point series and up hold the teams winning legacy. All hopes faded on the opening day of the seasons first race.It was at cherry pie crit were i realised that i had a problem. Throughout out this season i have fought with myself about really racing my bike.I have had the fear of risking it all to win which has show costly in my results.I am a domestic for my team captains Andreas f. in the road races and Zach w. in the crits .I can never seem to get a win for myself. With the help of my good fiend Andrew Wike(co-worker) My fitness has skyrocketed and so has my confidence .The point series has come and gone but it wasn't what i was really aiming for. My goal was to win criterium districts . but on that day being the loyal teammate i am i sacrificed myself for my team leader Zach. I was solo with 1 to go and got caught with 2 corners to go . Zach got 2ND and i finished 22ND with nothing left. Before that i also tried to win road districts but my attack was brought back by the jr. superstar Ryan Eastman My teammate Andreas got second in the Field sprint where i worked so hard to make sure Adreas had a Field sprint and he Had to do as little work as possible.I hope that one day i will have the fearless mentality and strength to be like the great teammates i have.

The rumor is true...

2008-07-22T13:34:00.001-07:00

Recently a photo was released exposing me in a way that people may find offensive. The image is real and has not been edited in anyway . ABERCROMBIE & FINCH male model according to Andreas andreasf.wordpress.com/And now that everyone knows my real job ... NO AUTOGRAPHS PLEASE !!!

State track champs.

2008-07-20T11:41:00.000-07:00

So going into the event i knew it would be no easy task.The day started off well with a flying 200 meter tt for match sprint placings.I got matched up with Andrew Lanier Jr.( A proven track rider.) I knew i had to jump early but coming out of the last corner on his wheel i couldn't come around.Teammate Andreas freund advanced all the way to the finals where he battled with Daniel Farinha . I settled for 5Th in the match sprint when i knew it would be tough considering I'm not a sprinter.The next event was the scratch race Where Daniel Farinha lit it up with a 24 lap solo to win it. I tried to bridge the gap but blew up at about halfway. No one could stop him.With the crazy scratch race done we moved on to the points race where i though i would do good but once again it was all out me just hanging on and getting lapped by Andrew Lanier as did everyone else.The specialized team showed great teamwork while they together jumped back and fourth across the gap.The last event was the best . A standing 500 tt. I knew that my 5Th place was solidified but still i thought i would try for the W and see what happened. Third off and i thought i was flying.I was less than a second off the time of Andrew Lanier and about 2 seconds off the time of Tisdell with 43.67. In the end i finished 5th overall and Andreas finished second behind Daniel Farinha.But the most amazing ride was the one done by Alexander Freund who lit up the 13-14 yr old Field winning every event and beating track star Marcus smith to claim his fourth jersey .Brain Larson came for only one event and of course won that race which was the pursuit . But 17-18s Eddie Zhang fought with Nicholas Abal for the rest of the jerseys available.

Congrats guys and what an amazing day.

Vacaville Grand Prix

2008-07-10T17:03:00.000-07:00

One day after the fourth me and a couple of the guys headed to Vacahill GP. The course is good and the Field was large . I warmed up for 45 - 50 minutes and rode the course with the team. As we got ready to start we waited 15 some odd minutes for the all clear on the course .From the gun it was fast . We dropped more than half the Field before the halfway point in the 16 lap crit.With seven to go i found my loyal teammate Aj snoves and told him its time to move up. We got right to the front in 3 laps and set there . Two laps to go i tapped Sherpa on the shoulder to let him know that the lead out plan was a go. .On the final lap i sat 1 guy behind Aj and off to my left was Sherpa .Around the sharp u bend safe and heading to the hill i got ready to make my move to the left through the turn . coasting threw the corner all aero like some guy shots under me and clips his pedal and slides into me . He takes me and only me down with him. I maneged to fall on him like a cushion and escape with very minor scratches and scrapes.all in all Aj did well beating his old man .

That W is elusive

The 4th

2008-07-04T19:49:00.000-07:00

So the 32ND annual 4Th of July crit was amazing . my plan was to drill it from the go.So i did and held on the front for a lap and a half . I went straight to the back and just hung on for dear life. the Jr's was ruff . We got second and third so not a bad day but awfoshow was kinda pissed about the overall situation in the end .
The 4s race was a sketch fest with wild crashes and 8 wide 30 mile an hour turns . I finished 60th due to the fact that i didnt sack up and win the damn thing cause i had 2 teammates ready to lead me out within the closing laps.

On to VacaHill

Me and my big mouth

2008-07-04T19:47:00.000-07:00

so anyways about a previous post my tt time came out to be 24:56 so i actually lost to Zach by 20 some odd seconds .
So My bad Zach and congrats by getting 24:16 this weekand .

whats next for Taps

2008-06-26T10:19:00.000-07:00

Well every other Wednesday there is a 10 mile solo TT that is hosted by the shop i work at (Davis Wheelworks ) . Whenever the TT is the team comes out to show up some adults . Usually my time is around the 25 range while people like Zach -23 ,Chris -23 and Andreas -22 minute times .with new teammate Aj Snovel out on the course i had but one goal and it was to set a PR (personal record).Half way through at the 5 mile marker i saw my dad as he yelled for me to go faster as i made the u turn and head into the cross tailwind .By then i had already past AJ and 3 others . But even the strong get past as Jane kinda strolled by me . When getting close to the line i was hoping than my time was good . In the end that i beat Zach by 3 seconds which was a phenomenal ride for me.With a time of 24:26 i was satisfied with Wednesday Worlds and my new PR.

Napa Grand Prix

2008-06-25T21:51:00.000-07:00

Showing up 1 hour before my start and still having to do day of reg. it was a squeeze . I warmed up close to co-worker Sherpa (Tim) and headed off for roll out . the start was horrible, no one could see the ref. and she didn't even give a count down to the start . Lap one i set 3rd wheel and driftted back to fifth on lap 2. The second corner held up a large amount of riders cause some guy rolled his tubular . I was sitting mid pack at about 60 % and Sherpa was done and on the side lines . About 25 min into the 40 minute cirt. while sitting mid pack coming out of the p corner my rear der. cable snapped and i rushed to the pit. they clipped my cable and off i was pounding my hardest gear. with 1 lap to go i sat up and watched the big guys sprint it out as i finished 32Nd out sprinting a few guys even though i was pedaling at 40 rpms .( 75 rider Field )
a tough day with the final jr. point series race following it .

Mt.Diablo

2008-06-25T19:23:00.000-07:00

Well I started the day warming up with the wicks as usual . As i walked up the start ramp Jeff Wu and i mixed some words about the definition of pain cave ( dbcjrt code word) . As he counted off the final seconds . I rolled down the ramp and in the corner of my eye i saw my dad and other parents taking photos . I didn't fell all that great on the roller at the start but as the climb progressed i felt stronger and stronger . Before the first steep part i had already past my 1 minute man . By the halfway point i had basically caught everyone that started within 3 minutes of me . Right before the end , 500 meters to go some guy comes past me as i pass 2 girls on the left . No more than 4 minutes went by until teammate and eventual winner Andreas F. past the line with Teni Duros Adam Hodes on his wheel . Torey finished fifth and i finished 7th . Zach a man for the flats held on for 10th in this painful uphill TT. In the end my 29:53 time was only 1 minute and some seconds of the winner of the 15-16s .

A job well done for someone who at the start of the season struggled to hang on in a Jr. race of this stature

Welcome

2008-06-25T18:31:00.000-07:00

Welcome !!!
Hey, Im Cody Tapley or as known in the junior peleton Tap's or Tapinator. Here are the stories of my days in the saddle and as i struggle on to become a serious threat in the cycling world . ( Or In The Jr Pack )