Winter Riding: Cross, Kit & Flaps

So that's it. I've had my first ride of winter where the temperature was just above freezing. It was a steady 100K one Monday morning in sunny Hertfordshire, doing that simple, yet classic, Ford Route. After a fairly mild November this ride was rather cold, a strong reminder of how important proper winter gear and layering is. Still, it was a great ride.

With the road & hill climb season coming to and end at the start of November, i've been enjoying an unseasonably warm November and looking forward to crisp winter mornings, blue sky and cafe runs. The realty of course, is always somewhat different, and donning yet more wet gear at the end of a day at work is never a highlight of my week (still better than the tube, no?) however thankfully these days have been not that common.

I've been fully embracing cyclocross, and decided to mainly concentrate on the Central League, simply because these seemed the easiest races to get to, in general. First race (for me) was Round 6 located just outside Hitchin. A very flat and fairly fast course, little in the way of serious mud, and a frankly daft 19 degrees! I was unfortunately, not gridded so started at the back, spent the first 2 laps fighting my way through. A good battle with 3rd saw me eventually take the 4th spot, just off the podium, but it was a great race, I felt strong and really pleased with my position. Plus, now i'll be gridded in my next race.
Next race was the Eastern League in Bury St Edmonds. Damien had offered me a lift, so thought why not eh? Well, the weather was what you'd probably call "proper cross weather" with fairly heavy and consistent rain, and what looked quite a tough course.  I was unfortunately at the back (theme here isn't here) so tried to fight my way through, which I was doing quite well, until I came off on a concrete section and hit my hip quite hard (road rash in a cross race...). I got back on and continued to ride, I was slower, and it hurt. After 2 laps of wondering what to do there was a serious crash on a section, ambulance called and the poor lad off to hospital, so the race was cancelled. Hope it wasn't too serious.
The following weekend was back to the Central League, and Round 7 at Houghton Regis. It was fairly wet, and couple this with freshly cut swamp/grass it was going to be tough. I was gridded this time and bagged 4th again, happy days. More detailed blog here:
http://ridingcircle.blogspot.com/2015/11/race-report-central-cx-rd-7-houghton.html
That's it for cross so far, there has been a slight break in Central League races, so back on it 12th December. I'll be trying to race as many more central league races as possible until the season ends in January. Expect to see plenty more mud and clogged up rear mechs over the next month...

Now winter is always a good time for silly challenges, in general, you're not racing (apart from cross) so don't need to save yourself for those, plus there is an element of stupidity and hardness about doing a challenge when it's dark, cold and wet outside. With that in mind, I rather jokingly suggested to Lucinda that we should do the Strava climbing challenge in 6 days. That's 6,000m in 6 days. Might sound easy, but when you factor in a full days work it starts to become a little harder... This effectively meant that we had to ride Swains Lane a minimum of 12 times per day. Sounds a bit stupid doesn't it, but Lucinda, Aoife and I managed this, and clocked up over 6,000m of climbing that week. The next challenge, which I might actually do this year, will be the Rapha Festive 500, one of the original Strava challenges. Suspect the Peak District weather might have something to say about that though...

We're now in Decemeber, the weather, thus far, has been quite kind to us. I suspect that will soon change. I've got a few trips plans over the festive period, Glasgow this weekend and then back into the Peak District over Christmas to find some snow and ice to play (fall) on. I'll be racing till the end of the cross season, and mixing this with plenty of longer base rides and a few Chain gang sessions per week and a few turbo sessions. I'm hoping, and suspect that i'll be feeling pretty good once road racing starts again. That said, at the moment the thought of racing doesn't exactly fill me with glee...

During winter i'll be riding and reviewing the new dhb Aeron winter kit. This is dhb's latest performance offering and their top of the range kit. I've always been a huge fan of dhb kit, consistently impressed by the quality and fit. On first impressions, their latest Aeron range does not disappoint, the Roubaix LS jersey is very well fitted, has some excellent features and looks great (especially in fluro) I've worn this a fair bit recently in a mixture of conditions, and it really has performed well. I've got the full range to review and do a longer term test, so roubaix bib tights, ls jersey, lightweight gilet, merino socks, merino cap and oversocks, all, obviously, in fluro. #flurolife It would seem that i'll be fully covered for those winter rides now and will be able to report back with a more detailed review on the range over the coming months.
You can check out dhb's Aeron range (and others) here: http://www.wiggle.co.uk/mens/cycle/clothing/?ea=4294789716

The final piece of any cyclists winter kit, should of course, be the winter bike.. This year i'll be riding the classic Ribble Winter Audax/Winter frame, I firm favorite of many a club rider due to it's price and traditional geometry, ok, so no, it doesn't have disc brakes *Rolls Eyes* but it does have proper mudguard mounts, which as any cyclist should know, are essential. I've taken to somewhat modifying my guards a little though, and whilst they protected me and my bike before (mainly) they still didn't offer any protection to the rider behind. Welcome to the stage, "The Flap"... I'll be taking orders for these over the next few weeks, different lengths and widths available, handmade and sourced in the England, ideal Christmas present for your loved one/winter bike. What more can you ask for eh?  For some additional revenue you can even sell space on your flap for advertising, I just opted for a classic " Stay Awesome" sticker.

Thanks for reading as always, and thanks to dhb & Wiggle for the Aeron kit, stopping me get hypothermia on the bike since Nov 15. 

Race Report: Central CX Rd 7 - Houghton Regis

Finally, my first gridded race, and front row next to Matt Jones (Winner) all thanks to the previous week where I came 4th. However despite this I actually didn't get a very good start, and perhaps need to work on this, as I must have lost at least 10 places coming into the first bend, the crash next to me didn't help, but still. 

It was clear from the few warm up laps that this would be quite an energy sapping course, couple this with all the grass and mud slowing the bike down I knew it was going to be tough. 

First lap in and I had managed to pass a few riders and was up into around 7th now. HR went from low 60s to about 180 in around 20 seconds, there is nothing quite like the first lap of a cross race.  Bike seemed to be handling well, and the lowered pressure on the Clement MXPs was working well, certainly felt better than in practice... Onto the 2nd lap and I pushed into 4th where I pulled away from 5th to create quite a gap which kept on growing, bar any mechanical I knew I could hold 4th and it was now a matter of reeling in 2nd and 3rd (no chance was I getting 1st...) I could see 2nd & 3rd battling it out ahead, and over the course of the next 3 laps I managed to get across, it dam near killed me, but I did it. I sat on their wheels, thankful for the rest for around 1/3 of a lap, and then made to move to try and drop them, this worked (for a bit) and I was now upto 2nd, but after a quick look around it became clear that 3rd and 4th were not going anywhere, I made a few attacking moves, but unfortunately nothing managed to stick (apart from the mud) We all exchanged places over the next few laps with nobody looking like the clear favorite. With 2 laps to go I was 4th rider, but starting to feel a bit, well, knackered. Damien was shouting from the side to keep it smooth and stay with them, I was trying... I stayed with them until the bell lap where they opened up a 5 second gap, I tried to get across, they were slowly pulling away. I knew that even if I managed to get across, after my earlier 3 lap solo attack, i'd have nothing in the sprint. I therefore crossed the line 4th, some 8 seconds behind 3rd and 2nd who battled it out in the sprint. To be honest, I was really pleased, in what was another tough field (both people and circuit) I actually really enjoyed the circuit, there was enough twisty sections and fast and flowing bits to make it enjoyable. The bike preformed well, a 1x9 setup was perfect, meaning that the chainline, except the rear mech of course, was mud free (kind of anyway), that said the frame did get a bit clogged up with grass and mud and that no doubt slowed me down, but then I guess that was the same with every other rider. 

It was great to be in a proper battle for a position, compared to just a solo cross TT which my last race was, tactics played a big part, and perhaps something I need to learn about a bit more. 

Thanks to the Central League for hosting another great event and get the results up so quickly! Thanks to Keith Perry for the photos. 

10 thoughts I had during a Hill Climb

There is nothing quite like travelling hundreds of miles for less than 5 minutes of racing. Welcome to the wonderful world of hill climbing. Of course though, it's not just about the actual race. It's the nervous prepping beforehand, the heckling at fellow competitors and not to forget the coffee and cake that is almost always present at a local village hall or church, often dished out by a cycling legend from the 1970s who's job is now also chief timekeeper. What a time.

Hills have long been a favorite of mine, and over the past few years I have seemed to get better and better at getting up them. Last year I took part in my first proper hill climb event, albeit only doing 3 of them and seemed to do ok. This year I was keen to enter a few more and hopefully improve on times/courses that I did last year...

First off were Catford & Bec, two famous hill climbs on the same Sunday in October in Kent, then was the triple header of Riber, Beeley and Bank in the Peak District (again, all on a Sunday) and finally Mott Street in Essex at the start of November. There were a few others I was keen to do, namely the nationals, but that will have to wait until 2016..

• Catford HC - York Hill - 0.4 miles - 256ft elevation - 2:13 (20th)
• Bec HC - White Lane - 0.4 miles - 285ft elevation - 2:12
• Riber Road HC - Riber Road - 0.8 miles - 372ft elevation - 4:09 (16th)
• Beeley Moor HC - Beeley Lane - 2.5 miles - 734ft elevation - 10:06 (7th)
• Bank Road HC - Bank Road - 0.4 miles - 258ft elevation - 2:26 (20th)
• Mott Street HC - Mott Street - 0.6 miles - 213ft elevation - 2:16 (1st)

So, 10 thoughts I had during a Hill Climb?
1) What am I doing?
Pretty much every hill climb I did this year I was sat in a que of 4/5 riders all waiting to set off. Always thinking, what the hell am I doing? Although I do enjoy climbing hills, i'm not quite sure I enjoying climbing hills under such pressure. You too will have these thoughts when you do one. There is always some chat at the start, sometimes along the lines of "shouldn't have eaten that pie yesterday" or "why do we do this?" It's nice to know you're not along in thinking this, yet being a little bit odd, and still wanting to hurt yourself. Before you know it, you're being held up and have a 30 second countdown. Last thought that goes through your head? Pain.

Catford HC

2) How the heck to I pace myself over a 2 minute effort
Earlier in the day, or maybe the night before, you'll be trying to think what kind of pacing strategy would you employ. I often thought this, studied the gradient, the road, looked on street view a few times, and if possible, rode the hill before the event. However, in reality, I found that any pacing ideas or dreams I had were quickly shattered about 5 seconds into any hill climb. I only went full gas. Catford for example is a cruel hill. You start off quick easy, very quick, you know what's around the corner, and you know there are two ramps of 20% + I hit the first one and pretty much stopped, maybe I got my pacing wrong here, but on a hill of around a 2 minute effort I couldn't really take it easy on the "lower slopes"

Bec HC

3) 20 second in, this isn't so bad.
That's what your mind and maybe your legs will tell you, but after about 30 seconds you'll want to cry. I generally found whilst building up speed and a rhythm the pain wasn't too bad, it was all quiet exciting really. Riber HC, for example, starts off on a wide B road, the gradient at this point is around 6%/7% and the pace quite hot. I was feeling great and knew the hill well, there was a small let off in gradient before it ramped to the castle up those 30% switch backs. I paced it perfectly upto here, getting my breathing right and allowing my legs maybe a slight rest... However the final two bends I was a mess, I was on for a good time, but feeling slow and really not sure I could keep going, maybe I went out too hard, maybe everybody feels like this now though? 

Riber HC

4) This is 20% i've pretty much stopped

I had this thought during every hill climb. Catford, yup, Bec? That's right. Riber? Too right. It's the shock to your legs but also your rhythm that does this, sounds obvious, but there is always a bit in my head that says don't slow down, so when you do inevitably slow down don't panic, everybody does, well I hope so. 

Riber, more than 20%

5)  I'm going to be sick

Absolutely guaranteed to think this. It's the pain in your legs, your arms and your lungs. Rarly do you feel this pain in anything other than a hill climb. That said, I've never actually been sick, or even seen anybody be sick, and that's with a Cornish pasty before the Bec Hill Climb.

6) I thought the finish was around this corner?

So i'm about 3/4 way through and all I can think is where is the finish? It doesn't matter how many times you have ridden the hill, there is always an extra bend and one section longer than you think. Riber is a classic example, there are 5 hairpins, I always think there are 4. Beeley Moor, at 2.5 miles is the same, a fantastic climb through the woods before a long (very long) straight section of road that gradually lessens in gradient. This tricks your mind into thinking you should be going quicker than the Garmin was telling you. There are no landmarks to aim for, just a bleak moor. 

Beeley Moor Finish

7) Is that blood in my mouth?

It's usually the last 30 seconds to a minute that hurt the most. It's also usually at this point you get a weird taste in your mouth, I'm not sure what this actually is. The combination of (usually) cold and wet air and your lungs and heart working at maximum capacity means it's not enjoyable. Riber was a key example of this. Awful. 

I'm going to be sick

8) How can these guys knock 30 seconds + off my time?

You don't really have too much time to think about anything but the pain, but I remember this during Bank Road and Beeley Moor in particular that I know guys will be knocking 40 seconds to a minute in some cases off my time. Seriously, I'm giving it everything I have, literally, nothing left. It's perhaps even more impressive when you see these performances, like at Catford & Bec, and seeing Richard Bussell (now national HC champ) storm to victory on Catford, was incredibly impressive, mainly because I've just ridden up that same hill, but 25 seconds slower over the 0.4 miles. Just how can I get that quick? 

9) Why am I doing this, i'm 6ft4". I'm never going to be a lightweight

Right after seeing other riders do the climb, and do it quicker, you start to think where can I get some help, the obvious place is the bike. I'm running a Giant TCR Advanced, Mainly standard bar the wheels, that are the latest Ultegras. So it's fair to say I could knock a fair bit off the big to make some gains, I mean though, I didn't even bother removing the bottle cages. I went through all these thoughts, but then it kind of hit me, I'm 6ft 4" I'm never realistically going to weight in at sub 65kg... That said, that Froome champ seems to climb well for a tall fella...

10) That was awesome, what's the next one?
I've basically listed 9 points why I would not do a hill climb, or why I wouldn't recommend one to a friend. However, after about 10 seconds from when you've finished you'll be thinking about when the next hill climb is. The whole event and race are superb, truly British in tradition and a right laugh. If you've never done one, just git it a go, I mean, what's the worst that can happen? 

Mott Street Cake.

So, that's my take on hill climbs. I love them, I love everything about them, but they are certainly interesting.

I'm pretty pleased with how I did in general this season. My Catford time was quicker by 2 seconds, which was both a surprise and a pleasure, Bec slightly slower, but then that's no big deal. Perhaps one of the important things I'll take away from this short season is that longer hills are better for me in terms of performance, and I proved this on Beeley Moor where I came 7th, chuffed with that, and it was great to climb/race up something longer than 2 minutes... Next year I'll be looking to ride the national and improve on this year's times, might even remove my bottle cages, you never know.

Thanks again for reading. 

Road Season: Done

The days are getting shorter, the hands are getting colder and the bikes are getting dirtier. That can only mean one thing. The road racing season is done (well for a bit anyway) I can now concentrate on the real racing that is cyclocross...

However before that starts and my time is either spent riding my bike or cleaning the bloody thing, I wanted to have a quick recap over this road season, my highs and my lows.

Essentially due to revision, exams and work I could only start racing in the middle of May. This meant I lost valuable early season time and winter/spring races where the chance of points and fewer riders is greater, well only if you like racing in truly horrible conditions... I'd also missed the start of Crystal Palace Crits, something of an institution in the London racing scene and a circuit (and atmosphere) that is the best around. My first race, towards the middle of May was however indeed CP crits. Over winter, although i'd been studying i'd actually been riding alot, having the benefit of getting out super early with RPR and managing my time quite well meant I could keep the miles and high intensity training up still. I seemed to be feeling strong, nothing at all scientific to back this up of course, but feeling good is all I had to base my performance on. First race and it was predicable hard, big fields (50 plus) and CP meant unless you were on/at the front moving up during such a short and tight crit circuit was hard. That said, riders were being shelled out in the usual fashion, so staying with the front group meant I bagged 10th and my first point, only 39 to go! 

In an unlikely fashion I then got really organised, I entered loads of races, put them all in my diary, that way I was committed. The next few weekends I was away, and in the week couldn't escape work (life eh?) Next race in the diary was 28th May at Hog Hill, part of the summer series, however the weekend prior I did the Tour of Wessex (3 day sportive) and came off, some pretty nasty road rash and injuries meant I was off the bike for 2 weeks, and missed ALL (5) the races I had entered, frustrating, but one of these thing I guess... 

So it was now the middle of June, I should have raced quite a bit by now, but had only managed 1 race, less than ideal, but the next one on the 16th June was Palace. having had two weeks off there was no argument that I wasn't well rested, unlikely to have lost any real fitness and keen to gain more points I emptied myself that race. It paid off, and in my best result at Palace I placed 4th, pleased with that and the much needed 6 points awarded. 7 in total now...

June is always a funny month for me, mainly because it's Mountain Mayhem (24 hour mountain bike race) so before hand I need to rest a bit and after, well I couldn't even walk, let alone ride or race. It really takes it out of me. This year though it was all worth it because I came 7th. a personal best for me. 

Prior to this, there had been some discussion in the club about the RAS de Cymru, a race i'd always wanted to do, but felt that there were probably better riders within the club who were keen to do it, As it happened whilst there was plenty of people interested only 3 could commit, so I was in the team. I'd never even done a road race let alone a 5 day, 6 stage road race. I mean, how hard can it be? Well as it turned out, very bloody hard. I don't think i've ever felt quite so far out of my depth. There is a full report on my blog already, but it essentially we went well in the TTT with a 7th, then from there on it was a world of pain. I managed to stay with the bunch on all the stages (apart from when I got a puncture) I took so much away from that race, so much learnt and so much more to learn, as well as just generally get, well, faster.... The rest of July then mainly consisted of going to France for the Etape du Tour, I did a few other races, 1 at Hog Hill where I didn't place in the top 10, and then post Etape another Palace race where I placed 11th.

So it's the start of August, i've got 10 points, and cat 2 seems quite way off. I had a few races in the diary in the week, namely Crystal Palace as per usual. I'll get straight to the point, CP Crits number 14 was won by me, i'd only bloody well gone and won Palace, there is even a whole blog post on that one race. That gave me a much needed confidence boost and perhaps even more useful was the 10 points this provided. Now i'm on 18, that sounds better! The following week palace was cancelled due to rain, but CP crits number 16 was on. Feeling pretty good from my win (Yeah I know, still) I went into this knowing just how to play it from a tactics point of view. Well, that seemed to pay off again, and this time I came away with 2nd and the first in the bunch sprint, another 8 points.All of a sudden i'm on 28 points and the prospect of Cat 2 now seems very real. End of August was another stage race, this time up in Manchester where London Phoenix had a pretty big turnout for the Manchester Wheelers 2 day stage race. This was a 2/3 race so I was hopeful to maybe pick up a few points. Stage 1 was a TT of 1.1k, no points, stage 2 a 50k crit, no points and the 2nd day, stage 3 was a 80k hilly road race, no points (16th) So no points on any stages, however unlike the Ras I felt in control at all times, really enjoyed the race, felt my form and fitness was strong, and was perhaps a little unlucky not to get points. But hang on, given my consistent placing in all 3 stages I had managed to grab 13th on GC, that meant 3 extra points (to my surprise). So yeah, 31 points now, only 9 to go.

It was at this point, the start of September, that I decided I had to really go for it. I had to go for Cat 2. I traweled the BC website and found plenty of races both at the weekend and midweek, not all were that easy to get to, and perhaps not really what I wanted to be doing in September, and maybe October, but never the less, if I set myself a goal i'll get annoyed if i don't reach that goal.

First race was out at Cyclopark, and was part of the Summer Series run by  Full Gas racing. I've not bothered entering these races before, mainly because it's a pain to get to Cyclopark after work for a 7am race (no bikes on the train) so you have to ride the 27 miles there and then race. Less than idea. This does however mean that the field is typically smaller, with around 35 in both races when I raced there. I have always liked Cyclopark, it was the home to my first even win 2 seasons ago as a Cat 4, and when i've raced there I have always done quite well. First race here and myself and 4 other riders were doing most of the work, nothing managed to stay away, despite quite a few attempts and it came down to a mass sprint. I was positioned well and hard from the final bend, perhaps a little too early as I went from 2nd wheel to 7th wheel when we crossed the line. Not great, but still the much needed points and something to learn for next time. (34 points now). The following week was pretty much the same, albeit this time with Andy Price from LP also in attendance. He proceeded to do most of the work all race and paid the price in the sprint. Again, no break so it was a bunch sprint. This is where it got confusing. i crossed the line either, 4th, 5th or 6th. I was pretty sure 5th and looking at the video/ipad after I still thought 5th. Either way, turned out I was 6th. 4 more points and now on 38...

2 days after at it was off to Hog Hill for the Big Events Cat 3 only race, another circuit I like and either seem to do very well here or completely bomb, the outcome of which kind of depends on my positioning coming up the final hill... The race seemed fairly easy despite very windy conditions. Andy p was again very active on (and off) the front, so I spent quite a bit of time trying to stop attacks and being a general pain. Last lap and it again came to a bunch sprint, I was well positioned around 5th wheel, Andy around 4th. But, then all of a sudden the rider in front just sat up, causing both Andy and I to get boxed in. I somehow managed to squeeze through a gap and watched riders go past. I held on for 10th, not the result I wanted of course, but still a point is a point. 39 points now...

The next race was another Cyclopark one on a Saturday. 2 weeks in between this and my previous race meant I was well rested. Andy went off the front on the first lap and stayed away for a brilliant solo win. Kudos. I then spent the entire race slowing the pace and chasing down any attacks, it was actually really good fun, and I felt great. Coming into the final corner it was another bunch sprint for 2nd. I fought my way to the front and was holding position  around 3rd wheel now, this could be it. I crossed the line and sat up, around 4th. Hang on... Everybody is still racing... i'd sat up for the Thursday finish line some 100 yards before today's finish line. I finished pretty much last. I was understandably frustrated with myself. Mainly because it meant i had to continue racing, I was ready to be done now.

So i'm now on 39 points. I've got one more raced lined up before i'll have to start looking again and finding some last minute point grabbing opportunities. Unfortunately what was hopefully my final race was at Velopark, a circuit i don't much like. Race day arrived and it was cold and gloomy, maybe that will deter a few racers? Nope, not the case, as around 50 cat 3 lined up! We were also racing the wrong way (clockwise). No real attacks off the front so it was yet another bunch sprint. I was positioned fairly crap coming into the last corner, around 15th. I knew the final corner forces people out wide, so i cut it tight and had a clear line to sprint as hard as I could. I hit the bridge having gained maybe 5 or so places and continued to pass a few more. I was in the points for sure. Results in (via electronic timing) and a confirmed result of 8th. Cat 2 confirmed. Thank god.

It's been a long old season. I'd have liked to have stopped racing end of August so I could start cross, but that can't have been helped. I've no doubt got a lot of work to do next year, a few winter series races for sure and no doubt a healthy helping of getting dropped at Palace E12 to start with, but i'm looking forward to the challenge. Who knows, this time next year I could be Cat 1...

Thanks for reading.

Race Report: Manchester Wheelers 2 Day Stage Race

It's been a little while since my last post about possibly my greatest achievement ever, winning at Crystal Palace. Since then I raced Palace again and got 2nd, races the Summer CX series (Post to follow) and prepared for the up and coming hill climbing season by, well, riding hills.

The weekend just gone was however the Manchester Wheelers 2 day stage race. A cat 2/3/4 race for women and men. Discussions were had and lists were made, the upshot of that is that Phoenix had 8 people entered into the event! 5 women and 3 men. We all made our way up North to Manchester on Friday evening, stayed at Liam's parents (thanks again) and prepared our self for a two day stage race (Pork Pies are good prep no?).

The format of the race was as follows:

 - Day 1: Stage 1: A 1.1k TT around the Thamesside circuit (Ashton Under Lyme)

 - Day 1: Stage 2: A 45 Minute crit around the same circuit

 - Day 2: Stage 3: A 54 mile hill road race up near Garstang.(Oakenclough Circuit)

Day 1 - Stage 1 - 1.1k TT

Nope, that isn't a typo, it really was a 1.1k individual TT. Or exactly 1 lap of the Thameside circuit run in a clockwise direction. It was difficult to gauge how this would work from an effort point of view, however my view was that you basically had to just end yourself, so that's what I did. However it was quite clear that from the warm-up laps this wouldn't be that easy, it was quite a technical course with plenty of turns, including a 180 degree hairpin. Getting a good time would be as much about cornering than all out power. The women were off before, so I spectated and took some photos then went to warm up on the turbo, 15 minutes of gentle spinning to get the legs moving and I was ready, well as much as you can be for a 1.1k flat effort. I had no real idea what time I should aim for, so as I was counted down, 3,2,1 off you go I just set off at top speed. quickly accelerating through the gears, just before a long and tightening right hand bend, spring out the corner, through an S bend and then onto the 180 degree hairpin, taking as low as possible and then really putting the power on, no idea what speed I was doing, couldn't see the Garmin... A tight right hander then followed, which I kind of messed up a little, stood up when I should have really been sat down I lost my balance a little, then onto the final left hand towards the finish, sprinting out the saddle. Literally not a clue if I did a good time, I felt I rode well apart from one corner, and over such a short distance times wont matter that much will they? Results in, and I was 19th our of 50 riders, not bad, but not great either. Official time of 1;19.7 to the winners 1:14.9, so really not much in it at all. Ben did a similar time at 1:19.1 to place 18th and Liam unfortunately came off, rolled a tub on the first corner and came down quite hard, he got the race again, but understandably was more cautious in his effort. 

Day 1 - Stage 2 - Crit Race

So the TT was in the morning and the crit was to be in the after. The women were off at 1:30pm with the men off an hour after that at 2;30pm. In between the TT and the crit there wasn't enough time to go back to Liam's, so as the weather wasn't too bad we all just chilled out, some went for a ride around the circuit, others (me) just ate food. The women's race started at 1:30pm, so we sat down and watched this unfold for a while. The field was huge, 43 women in total with some very strong riders and teams present, plenty of attacks and some great riding! It was now time for another warm up, so 15mins on the turbo and I was ready for the start. It was clear that getting a good position was going to be key due to the narrow and twisty nature of the circuit, so with that in mind I lined up at the front and rolled around to the start, only to be told to keep going around whilst the marshalls deal with an injured rider from the women's race, so I lost my position, ah well. back on the start line, and off we went, around 35 laps in 45 minutes. Pace, as per usual in these things, was quite frantic from the off, with riders and teams all jostling for position. I seems to be positioned around mid pack at this point, some 15 minutes in, riders were getting shelled out the back so the front group was now some 25 riders strong. A few attacks went up the road, but from what I could see nothing really was sticking, until a strong group of 4 went, 2 from the same team (can't recall the name) they managed to stay away for the whole race, so the now depleted bunch was sprinting for 5th, at best. Lucinda and the rest of the girls were shouting from the side for me to move up, perhaps that was extra motivation, but I did seem to be doing as I was told, and now perhaps 10th rider with 5 laps to go. My plan was to try and move towards the front over the course of the next few laps and then sit on/near the front on the bell lap, this has seemed to work well for me before in previous races, so why not here, albeit there is no hill... This was harder than it needed to be, and over the course of the next 4 laps I only managed to move up a few places at best. Bell lap and the pace went up again with a gap to the group behind a few seconds. I wasn't in a great position and a few riders made it across so I finished with the front group, nowhere near the points, but perhaps more importantly we all got the same time. So after Stage 1 and 2 there was only 19 seconds separating the top 20 riders! (I was 18th). So that was Day 1 done, overall not bad, I didn't get any points, which I was I really wanted, but on a course that didn't really suit me (did I mention there was no hill) I placed ok. Tomorrow is hilly though, so that will be better. 

Day 2 - Stage 3 - Oakenclough Road Race

I was feeling pretty fresh today, the combination of a tasty Lebanese meal, a few pints and a good nights kip meant I was raring to get going and really looking forward to it. The race was to start at 10am, with the women setting off just 5 minutes after. We would complete 5 laps of a 11 mile circuit, which climbs just under a 1,000ft per lap. We didn't have time (or the inclination) to ride or even drive the lap before, we have 5 laps to get used to it after all... However looking at the route profile it was essentially a long draggy climb over about 5 miles (that sounds harder than it was), with a ramp at 13% towards the top (that was hard) then a long downhill back to the finish, to go around again. Warmup done, briefing done and we were lined up, keen not to make the same mistake as before I lined up at the front, albeit less important that a crit. 

Only a short (0.6k) neutralised section and then straight into it. Pace was hot, but I was feeling good so aimed to stay within the front 15 or so riders. We reached the steeper section of the climb (that 13% ramp) there was a small attack of the front, which I went with, I knew this hill would suite me, so made every effort to stay with the attack. The next section was a very quick descent, I hadn't ridden this before, so I didn't know what the road surface was like, other riders seemed to care less (or know the circuit) as I went from 5th rider on the road to about 20th in the space of about 30 seconds. I always thought I was good at descending? Maybe not... Thankfully there was a sharp left hand bend which then kicked up again for a short time where I could gain most of the places back. The descent back to the start/finish was much wider now, it was quick, in fact, it was very quick. The bunch hit 56mph here, and I was still being overtaken. *Don't puncture, don't puncture* was constantly going around my head... back at the start now and 1 lap done. Over the next few laps nothing really happened. There was a lone Manchester Wheelers rider out front who held around 30 seconds for most of the race (rightly so got most aggressive rider) but on lap 4 he was brought back. There were various attacks during lap 4, with myself and a small group of 5 getting a gap, ok, so it only last about 30 seconds, but it seemed nobody had either the legs or inclination to really push on and work together (me included), so we got caught again, at this point another rider in orange went off, I was on the front, and had been for a while. I didn't seem to have the legs to catch him. I decided to drift back a few riders and try and not take up pace making duties. 4th time up that ramp hurt, I really pushed myself and crested as a lone rider, hang on, was this going to work? I was joined by 4 others, but once on the descent were brought back. Now onto the final lap, the pace had hotted up a bit and there were attacks going off the front, nothing seemed to last too long though and up the ramp one more time there was a lone attack, I was in a poor position, so just sat in. Onto the sharp left hand bend and ramp and I kicked (along with everybody else) and stayed with what seemed to be the lead group now, around 15 riders strong, bit between our teeth, we were all trying to chase that lone break. Ben K then came up alongside me, and I latched onto his wheel, we got a small gap, but there was another furious attack that quickly brought us back. Final few corners and I wasn't in a good position, maybe 20th rider now, the final fast corner opened onto the sprint finish, of around 500 meters. I kicked and passed a few riders, again, poor road positing by me meant I was over on the right, it was all very close but I finished again in the lead group, around 15th, but as with the crit, the most important aspect was we'd all get the same time.

Final results in, and it seems some of the top 10 riders from before the road race hadn't finished that well, so I managed to place 13th in the overall GC. The time gaps were so small between the top 15 riders that I was pretty pleased with that. So still no points, but that was probably one of the best road races i've ever done, great course and such fun.

The women's race and event was fantastic. Seriously proud of Lucinda who finished 24th in GC in such a huge field and against some very touch competition, not only was this her first stage race, it was her first road race ever having only started racing in August this year! Aoife, Petra and Jane from Phoenix placed really well, in 8th, 9th and top 20 in the overall GC. Think we all did Phoenix proud. Special guests of Agi from Rapha, Kat from Essex Roads (soon to be Phoenix!) and Sophie from Feathers also shared the fun with the Phoenix gang and all rode a very strong races, with Agi finishing 3rd on GC! What an awesome achievement.

Huge thanks to Manchester Wheelers and Ruth Taylor who organised the whole event, it was a really well run race, good fun and I, as i'm sure the other London Phoenix riders too, will be back next year. More info here: http://www.manchesterwheelers.co.uk/events/open-events/index.htm

*Updated* Just checked BC and I got 3 points! Only 9 away from Cat 2 now, happy days. 

Strava Links:
Stage 1: https://www.strava.com/activities/379855336
Stage 2: https://www.strava.com/activities/380212668
Stage 3: https://www.strava.com/activities/380857063

Thanks for reading.

Bontrager 24/12 - Team Effort

For the first half of 2015, because of work I didn't have the time to either race or do events, so when I finished my exams I May I basically signed up to every race and event I could. The next race was this one: Bontrager 24/12, a 24hr mountain bike race...

Having returned from France and the Alps on Tuesday evening it suddenly dawned on me that I had a 24hr race this weekend, albeit in a team, but I hadn't prepared anything, my bike still had its race number (and associated dirt) from Mountain Mayhem... Ow I hope it still works actually... 

We were a team of 4. Myself, Damien, Jon and Simon, well until Thursday when simon unfortunately came off I a practice ride a bust his shoulder, we were now down to 3 riders, competing with teams of 4 and 5. I had no idea how we'd fair. As with all endurance races the weather plays a huge part in the success or failure of a ride, in this instance the weather was forecast to be mixed, sunshine Saturday, rain Sunday, we'll have to wait and see.

Damien thankfully agreed to drive, and we left London around 8pm Friday, making the 4 hour drive to Newham Park, just outside Plymouth. We arrived just after midnight, found the venue and pitched the tent, we weren't off until 12 the next day so no super early start. We awoke to glorious sunshine, maybe the rain wasn't going to arrive, and after registering, which included a free bottle of Ale, and breakfast we met Jon, our third member and prepped the bikes. My bike was still working thankfully, albeit Dave (if you read this) it does need a service... Some opt for a practice lap, I never bother, my view is you have 24hrs to get to know the course, it will likely change over time due to weather and volume of riders too. That said this course was quite long as 13.8km, hilly (as always) at around 1,000ft per lap, we were promised plenty of singletrack at the rider briefing, and also one section know as a bog, fun. 

I suggested I do the first lap, handing over to Damien and then onto Jon before going out again, initially in the day we'd plan to only do 1 lap turns, with a view to double up at night, this has worked well for me in previous events, so should work well here, albeit with a rider down.

12 arrived and it was time, in was on the start line, not a great position, but I knew there was a big climb to start with (cliff climb) where I could make up time. Off we went, pace fairly high, but loads of riders on the course slowed progress a little, we initially wound around the arena, up a small climb before starting the whole lap, in an attempt to drag the field out a little. Seemed to work, and as we hit the first full lap the number of riders in team kits increased, I was apparently in a good position. The first section was a long climb on road for around 500m then gravel farm tacks for another 1k. This was a timed Strava segent, so I put in a fair effort, not sure I'll keep this up for 24hrs though... The woods came as a welcome relief with some singletrack, conditions were best described as "sticky" meaning progress wasn't rapid, plus I'm convinced this was still up hill? We looped around the woods for a couple of K before the descent started, first half was a narrow, but very flowing singletrack section on the edge of a wood, great fun, and with a clear line you could really nail it. I did. This ran into a fire road descent before a small, but sharp climb. The cottage return section was next, a fast and techy downhill. Started off with a few bombholes before opening up into a fast chute. It was narrow, rocky but great fun! Usually 24hr courses are built for endurance, and as a result a little bit boring, but this was actually enjoyable! Conscious not to crash out on the first lap I did take it steady though. Back into the arena briefly, before being taken across a stream and a short sharp climb, then winding through a shooting range before climbing again, over the campsite with a fast grassy descent back into the arena. That was that, first lap into 24 hours and it was done, how many more I wonder? First lap in 42 minutes, not bad I guess given the traffic. I handed over to Damien who set off, we had decided to each do one lap, which would mean depending of lap times (suspect we'd do similar with 5 mins of each other) each rider would have around 1:40 between their laps, enough time for a bit of food and rest, but not too long so you'd get cold and seize up. We'd reassess this in the early hours... The laps ticked by and we were all feeling strong lapping now in around 42, and each of us 2/3 minutes either side of that. The evening and darkness arrived, weather still good, and now around 1am, my turn to go out, I'd had a proper meal (potatoes and tinned curry) and was ready for a double, this would mean I could come I and then in theory get 3 hours sleep! 1st double was fine, 2nd double seemed to take ages, in reality it was only a few minutes slower, but I was pleased to get back to the tent and try and sleep... I say sleep in the loosest sense of the word because I'll full of sugar and adrenaline and can never sleep at these events, sure enough, I lay in my tent, in slightly damp cycling gear completely wired, but also tired. No sleep was had, despite trying, so it was up again at 6am for another double lap stint. We seemed to get the timing abit wrong here, and Damien who was now out, should have been in, essentially he'd done another double, and it was Jon's turn next, so I had another 2 hour wait, at which point the weather gods changed their mind, and decided to start the rain, I've not seen rain like this for a while, everything was wet it was torrential. This was going to be a matter of survival now... I was off onto my second double, at around 8am. To be honest this wasn't fun, it was very grim, everything was wet, but at least the sticky mud had gone away, trails were now rivers, which actually rode quite well... I came in and thankfully was done, Jon was off for his second double. After his 1st of the double he was flying, still 45min laps, it dawned on us we'd get a third lap in! Jon, who seemed up for this was oddly loving this... Another quickish lap and he made it back before 12, so yeah, out again. Finally finished around 12:25, looking quite heroic. We'd finished, the odds stacked against us, 2 riders down and rain, but thanks to great riding and teamwork we finished 11th. Pretty bloody awesome I think. 

I'll come back next year, great course and atmosphere, but it it better than mountain mayhem, Naaa that's a classic! 

Crystal Palace Crits - Winner Winner

I havn't been doing blog reports on individual Crits races recently, mainly because i don't have time, but secondly they'd be two a week and people would soon get bored.

However this post is different, this post is about Crystal Palace, and the fact that I won the 3/4 race there. As much for my own memory than anything. 

Crystal Palace, in South London, is one of the best crit racing scenes. Situated in the park, the short circuit of less than 1k is brutal, sharp corners, a hill (not very steep) and dead mans corner all serve to offer serious levels of pain. Many people view this circuit as one of the harder ones in London, and that often means a strong field in both e12 and 3/4 races. 

I sat on the grass before the start, eyeing up the competition, the usual suspects, trying to see if they'd moved onto cat 2, alas, not the case, not yet anyway. I felt relaxed, after a big week last week I had rested over the weekend and the legs felt good. Andy P from Phoenix also in the 3/4 race, and as we sat on the start line (no warmup) I was saying how Palace is one race is love to win, maybe the rest of the riders heard me say that? I've done enough of these now (5 this season) to know that being in the top 10 riders is key, because of the corners and narrow circuit there is no real opportunity for a big bunch to gather. A few laps in and settled down to a comfortable pace, didn't seem too high, maybe is was slower, maybe I felt good, or maybe it was the 6 shot bloks I had before the start? Nothing much happened, a few attacks from Bigfoot and Dynamo, but they didn't stick. A drop in the pace, and Andy came through, proceeded to tow everybody around at a great pace for two laps. This helped get ride of any stragglers, and we were left with a fairly large group of around 20/25 riders. My turn now, and I came to the front, attacking out of every corner and making sure my cornering was spot on, I wasn't really gaining much distance, so after two laps of this sat up to let a few others have a play. We were now at 10 laps to go, or there abouts, I was placed well in the top 10 riders. Just before the bell another attack up the hill by Bigfoot, dragged a Dynamo rider and Andy across, they had a gap of maybe 50 meters when they crossed the line on the bell. I was 4th wheel now going into the final lap, I was quite happy with 4th so held my position, bottom of the hill now and I could see the pace of the three riders slowing abit, still no riders have come past me, so at the bottom of the hill I went, past Andy and the other two and I kept going, bloody hell I was in the lead coming into the final straight, I sat down, gurned some more and crossed the line, nobody came past, no celebration, no two hands in the air for glory, just a shout and a quick air fist pump once I was sure if won. Wow, I've just won Palace. Couldn't quite believe it. First win in more than 2 years, great stuff. 

Strava: https://www.strava.com/activities/361222526 

Etape du Tour 2015: Saint Jean De Maurienne to La Toussuire

So this year's Etape was my fifth one, and from looking at the profile could be one of the hardest (apart from 2012, that was stupid wasn't it) 138km in total from Saint Jean De Maurienne to La Toussuire (Where Froome attacked Wiggins in 2012, remember?) and would be used as Stage 19 of the Tour on the 24th July.

This year I could only get a few days off work, so unlike the usual car full and 10 days holiday with my brother and Parents, Lucinda and I drove down in the Rover, left London on Wedneday at 4pm and arrived at our villa in Orelle, just outside Modane at 7am Thursday. Perfect. 

I had a good number this year (226) which meant I was in the first pen, and off at 7am. Jack, Dave and Lucinda were also all doing it this year, Lucinda's first time, so on race day we all arrived at Saint Jean early on the Sunday to allow for plenty of time to find the bag drop, faff and chat. The weather forecast had been "mixed" for the past few days, so I made sure that I took all the kit, including arm warmers and Gilet, even though in all likelihood I wouldn't need them... 

7am arrived and we were off. The first climb, Col du Chaussy was just 2k into the ride, 16k in total at an average of 6%. I had a few aims on this climb: Climb in under an hour, stick with the quick guys, and ride hard. After the climb was a 32k flat section where if you were out on your own you would suffer. We hit the lower slopes and riders suddenly started to go backwards, I felt really good, having rested the day before, and managed to make sure I wasn't passed by any riders. I had started the middle of the front pen, so was under no illusion that a front group was already up the road on the climb, and likely that I would never see them (correct). I maintained a good speed (around 16-18k) and VAM (velocità ascensionale media, translated in English to mean "average ascent speed", quoted in meters per hour) of around 1000. Around 3k into the climb I could see another Phoenix rider, this was Miles, we both finished with a few minutes of each other last year, so I knew he'd also have a good start number. I caught up with him and pulled to the front setting a high pace in an attempt to dislodge some of the other riders in this now small group, we shared turns and rode all the way up the climb, the pace however was a bit too high, I was conscious that whilst the route was only 138k I didn't want to blow up on the first climb, especially with 3 more to come... We crested the summit in 55:38, VAM of 1086, so from a time climbing perspective I was happy with that. There weren't many riders on the road now, and no real groups forming, so Miles and I hit the descent with a fairly clear road. I hadn't ridden this before, Miles had, and it showed, he was descending very well, and quickly opened up a small gap. We got the bottom slopes, and I was now in a small group of 4 riders, with a much larger group, around 30 just up the road, we worked together and quickly joined the back, with nothing much happening, yet the pace still quite high so had a easy 30k, which given the Glandon was coming up might be for the best. I hit the Glandon at 9:15, so temperature wise it wasn't too hot which given the climb is 20k in total, averaging 7% and climbs 4,658ft was for the best. I was feeling good still, upto this point had got my fueling spot on, drinking one 750ml bottle of electrolyte, 2 gels and 1 bar. I was still with Miles at this point and we rode together, along with two other very euro looking chaps upto the 10k point, where a sudden injection of pace saw me slowly drift back. I decided not to follow Miles at this point, namely because I knew this was not only a long climb with a nasty final few Km, but we also had two more cols to climb. The final few K was unpleasant at best, I was low on water, and thankful for the campers and supporters handing out bottles and cups of water and shouting "Allex Allez" 1K to go and a final kick at the top and I was there, hardest bit done a reckon... 1:22 climb time, VAM of 1028. I stopped for exactly 1 minute at the feed station to refill bottles, drink some coke, eat some cheese tart thing before I was off again. Thankfully at this stage they were not busy, so being quick was possible. Onto the small 4k climb onto the Croix De Fer, After feeling abit hungry at the top of the Glandon, and perhaps a little tired I felt great now, upped the pace again and onto the descent. Confidence was up now and I was flying down, taking the correct lines and getting as aero as possible, every little bit of every saved here is important for the Mollard and La Toussuire. Bottom of the descent was 100k done and now onto the Mollard, another climb i've not done before, and one that i had forgotten about really. Ah it;s only a Cat 2, Ah it's only 5k. Yeah, i wont be saying that again, 5k is long way in the mountains. Still feeling strong though, and having left a small group at the bottom of the climb I was pushing out a consistent pace, nothing much to report on this climb really, I was pleased when it was over though, 23:41 in total with a VAM of 950, slightly down on where I needed to be, but not surprising. Another gel and another bar at the top, allow enough time to digest and onto the final descent, and what a descent, sketchy and rough in places, beautiful smooth tarmac in other places, plenty of hairpins and plenty of blind corners. I thought I was quite a good descender, apparently not, it really is impressive watching guys hurl down the mountain and around corners at speeds and levels of grip I thought wasn't possible. An area for some improvement I think. The final climb was La Toussuire, a fairly long 18k, with the hardest 3k right at the bottom, and an average of 6% overall. The bottom slopes were tough, I looked down at my Garmin and saw 10kph, this simply wasn't quick enough, the sun was baking and the temperature around 35 degrees now. I worked out that at the current speed the climb would take me nearly 1 hour 30, that wasn't quick enough and woudl mean i'd be over the 6 hour mark. I gave myself a serious talking to, especially after I was passed a group of 5, necked two gels, clicked down the cassette and stood up. I can't lie, this hurt, everything was telling me to sit down again, go back up the cassette and spin, but as I powered past the small group that had just passed me I kept on going, and whilst the climb does thankfully now get a bit easier I was maintaining around 16-18kph and a VAM around 1000. Into La Corbier and around 4k to go, just 4k! another gel was hard around 6k to go which now started working, down the cassette again as the gradient lessened and out the saddle once more. Now out La Corbier and 2k to go, I could SEE the 1k to go sign, thankfully the gradient once again flattened and allowed for a solid pace, now at 5:50 going into the final K I knew i'd manage a sub 6, thankfully. La Toussuire and the finish line was awesome, so many people out cheering on, but I was on my own, no sprint finish for glory thankfully, so kind of just cruised over the line, that was La Toussuire done in 1:08 and a VAM of 953, again slighter lower than i wanted, but i'll take it all the same. That's the Etape done for another year, and as I filtered through to the "Pasta Party" I was actually pretty pleased with my time, no idea where this would place me but hopefully enough for a top 200 finish. I joined Miles in the finishing tent, who finished just a few minutes before me, a storming ride. We chatted about some stuff, at pasta and then sat outside in the sun, relaxed and built the cycling tan whilst other Phoenix riders and mates turned up, probably best bit of the day. Results in and I came 185th out of 14,000 starters and around 9,800 finishers. I'll be honest, i'm quite pleased with that. 

Strava Link: 
https://www.strava.com/activities/349368289/overview

So that's now 5 years of "Etaping" done, so I reckon i'm in a pretty good position to offer 5 tips for anybody looking to ride in 2016, I know I will be...

#1 Training - Logo Solo Hilly Rides
Club rides are good, but the problem with club rides is they don't truly reflect the Etape, you stop and start and benefit from the shelter of other riders. You'll be out there for 6/7/8 hours, solo riding, so some solo riding around 5 hours will get you trained for this. As is often the case in winter, base miles are often the order of the day for many cyclists, and this was certainly one of my training methods. This may seem an obvious point, it may also seem slightly boring, but I personally like solo rides. In addition to this climbing for 10 minutes up Box Hill once wont really cut it. Find somewhere with longer hills, or if that isn't possible do hill repeats (a particular favorite) 10 Swains Lanes in North London for example is around an hour in total, with about 3,000ft climbed. Although you're not climbing all the time it's certainly a good way to get the hills in.

#2 The Race - Pacing is key
More so than ever on this particular stage as you had 4 climbs. There is no point smashing the first climb 2k in, and then blow up on 2nd or 3rd climb. I made sure I not only rode on feel, but also maintaining a constant speed and effort up climbs, not worrying too much about other riders on the road. So when Miles attacked on the Glandon I didn't follow, I was concerned with pushing too hard and loosing too much time on the last climb, i'm 100% sure that was right decision. Using VAM as a measure of effort when climbing was also useful and is almost as good as using power, well, unless you have a power meter.

#3 Travel - Road Trip
Everybody loves a road trip don't they? For the past 5 years we have driven to the Etape, with varying numbers of people. This year it was just Lucinda and me in the car, we racked up a total of 1,450 miles, with tolls adding upto 173 euros and fuel 220 euros, we also caught the eurotunnel from Folkestone to Calais, cost was about £120 return, but it only takes 35 minutes! Driving from calais to Orelle took just under 10 hours, which if you can share driving is easy. Our chalet spelt at least 10 and workout out to be about £15 pppn, bargain indeed! Doing it this way, and not through a tour company is great, but does rely on yu having a good support team, which we did again this year, in the shape of my parents and Dave's wife Charlotte. Their help was essential, especially ferrying us around on race day. 

#4 Training/Race - Mental Toughness

 This point is similar to the first one, but you need to be mentally tough. 5km around Hertfordshire might seem like nothing, but 5k in the mountains climbing is hard, long and will take a while. Likewise you need to train your body to be climbing for over an hour. Little changes to your body position can help, I'll ride on the tops for this k, or I'll have a drink every 1k sign. Either way it's a long day in the saddle, so solo rides are key. Hill repeats are another good way to toughen up mentally and benefit climbing as well. 

#5 Kit - Gearing

This year I ran a traditional 39/53 setup with a 12-28 on the back, this was fine for me and allowed a good steady cadence. However do not underestimate your gears. A compact is ideal, and if I had one I'd run that (34/50) with either a 12-28 or a 12-32. I churn quite a hard hear, but if you prefer to spin a 32 might be a good option. It may sound obvious but a new set of brake pads will improve confidence and braking ability, don't forget to bed them in a little though

After the Etape we had a days riding up the Mollard, went for a swim, it was pretty epic, few photos below. Can't wait to come back now...

Thanks for reading.