Race Report: Capital Tri Duathlon - Velopark

February is known for being cold, often seeing snow showers and heavy frosts, so whilst some cyclists either stay inside on a turbo, or venture to warmer climates to ride mountains I decided that I'd do a Duathlon in East London.

Capital Tri (http://capitaltri.com/) run a bi-weekley dutahlon at the Lee Valley Velopark (Olympic Stadium) on Tuesday, starting at 7:30pm. This is a "sprint" distance event, a 2 mile run, followed by a 10 mile bike, then a final 2 mile run on the Road Racing circuit, benefiting from no traffic, smooth tarmac, nice twisty corners and flood lighting. 

I naturally arrived early so went inside the warmth of the Velodrome and watched the track riders go around for a bit, secretly quite jealous that these people could stay inside... It was then time to register and get changed. I was unsure of what or how many layers to wear, so opted for the brave choice of a skinsuit with a LS base layer, anything more would have been uncomfortable to run in, and also most likely meaning I get too hot on the run. So that was that, Skinsuit in February. 

A small field of 12 hardy people had signed up, and within the 12 a couple of guys who looked rather quick, including one full tri spec Fuji bike and a Cervelo. Nice. After the briefing was given we lined up on the start line, had out photo taken pulling a snowman pose (what is that?) and off we went. As expect two guys sent off very quick down the hill, however by the bottom corner I had caught them and settled into what I thought was a good pace. Something which is often difficult when you have a bike and then another run to do. By the end of the first lap (run is two laps) I had built up a good 200-300 yard lead with a further 200-300 yards to third place. I completed the first lap in around 5:50mins and then onto the second, slowing down a little for the hills as to try and conserve some energy... Second lap now done, and I was still in the lead and into the transition area, where I discovered that putting on a helmet and shoes in the dark with cold hands was very difficult. I seemed to be in the transition forever, finally managed to fasten my helmet, and off onto the bike leg and the first of ten laps. The first two laps are always the hardest on the bike, as your body has to adapt and engage different muscles, I seemed to be going slow, breathing in litres of icy cold air didn't help, however after three laps I had managed to find a rhythm on each section of the course and through the bends and was averaging a consistent 25mph, which given I had another run to do (did I mention the cold too?) I was fairly pleased with. Coming into the final two laps and my legs were burning, and on the last lap I slowed a little just to allow the legs to recover. Into the final transition, helmet thrown to the floor (clever) and running shoes on, I was off. Compared to 25mph av this run now felt like I was going backwards, my thighs burnt and yet again I found it difficult to get into a good rhythm, not helped by a stitch which had hit me from somewhere. Slightly too late, and now onto the final lap I did find my form, and settled down, taking the turns and hills slower than the first run but concentrating on my strides and breathing. Seemed to work and I crossed the line with a total time of 52:50. 

Analysing the times after, my moving time was 50:09 compared to 50:17 from the last time I did this event in April, so that's encouraging. The decrease in time has come from my running, with my bike time only 1 second slower than before. Having said that what let me down tonight was my transition, but then a time in February is never going to be as quick as April, cold hands and gloves do not make for a speedy transition. 

Links to Strava here:

Run 1: https://www.strava.com/activities/249634048 

Bike: https://www.strava.com/activities/249634065

Run 2: https://www.strava.com/activities/249634017 

Thanks to the Capital Tri team, a great event, very welcoming and encouraging everybody throughout the race. I would really recommend these events to people, I mean it's only £13 and you get a whole evening of fun. 

Thanks for reading, i'll be back for the next one in two weeks time. 

2014: A Late Review

Somehow it is now nearly the end of January and i'm only just getting around to posting about 2014. What a year, plenty of brilliant moments, a few downs, but mostly just great fun riding my bike and enjoying adventuring more and more.

These were my 2014 goals that I posted back in Dec 2013:

• Achieve Cat 2
• Beat my 10 mile TT time of 23:12 (Standard Road Bike set-up)
• 1st in a cat 3/4 race
• Top 5 in Crystal Palace league
• Top 5 in a road race*
• Get in a successful breakaway
• Podium at Mountain Mayhem (Solo 24hr MTB race)
• Podium at Sleepless in Saddle (Solo 24hr MTB race - Well if it's on this year!)
• Compete in Solo 24 Hour World Championship (MTB)
• Top 200 finisher at Etape Du Tour
• Train Smarter**
• Venture into Cross racing next winter (New Bike #result) 
• Beat my 6:28 minute lap of Regents Park

It's actually quite interesting (for me) reading my goals, and understanding how realistic or in some cases unrealistic these were. 

First off, and for most a big one: Achieve Cat 2. 

Bottom line is I didn't manage this, I got 28 points, so was a fair way off. The start of my season upto June went well, a number of top 10 finishes, and one podium (3rd) I was feeling good, and racing well. That was until I did mountain mayhem (24hr Mountain Bike Race) This as you can imagine impacted my high intensity crit racing performance, I then went off to France for two weeks in July (Etape) and then August arrived, work & arrived and racing just fell off my calendar. I then took to decision to forget achieving Cat 2, aim for that in 2015, and just enjoy getting out on my bike. 

Time Trail wise I was enjoying the few that I had done. A couple at Velopark, where I PB'd (22:50) and then in October on the Brickendon F7/10 course managed a 21:41. All of this on a standard road bike with no aero additions. It was clear that TTs were going to become more of a thing in 2015, and something which I enjoyed more than road racing. Having said that I still don't have a TT bike, and will continue to do TTs on a standard road bike... 

A few more road racing ones, I didn't really do enough Palace crits, mainly due to work, which was a shame, the ones I race in I typically placed in top 10, just, which I was happy with, but an overall position within the league wasn't going to happen. Still no road race yet... and still no successful breakaway. These i'm sure will come in 2015.

Mountain biking. My original love for cycling. Two big events in 2014, first was Mountain Mayhem, and then secondly the 24 hour world Championships in Scotland. Well first of all the Worlds Champs didn't happen, that was work (again) getting in the way. Mountain Mayhem happened though, and it was my favorite event & race of the year. I didn't get a podium, but did finish 10th, which I was over the moon with. It was tough, both mentally and physically, but I powered through and got a position. 2015 i'll be doing this again, and know that a top 5 is on the cards. If it rains though... (remember 2012?)

Onto France, and the Etape du Tour. Now my 4th year of doing this, and for 2014 back in the Pyrenees. I finished 330th, which was outside the top 200 (out of 10,000) where I wante dto finish, but given the weather or rain and cold temperatures I was happy to just finish! I felt great though in terms of fitness, and for next year (back in the alps) I will get top 200. A brilliant event and one I would recommend. 

A last minute decision towards the end of Autumn saw me look at hill climbs. Not something i'd ever paid much attention to before, but liking TTs and being ok up hills I thought why not. Actually the results were pretty good, with the Catford & Bec being the highlight in terms of experience, fantastic events! The KW HC on Leith Hill was one of my first and I managed to come 4th and one up Mott Street, where I came 2nd. 2015 i'll be doing ALOT more of these at the end of the season, and will focus the latter half of summer around this. Most likely my racing will be impacted, but Hill Climbs are wonderful events of traditional pain. What's not to like? 

Finally in November my employer introduced Cycle 2 Work. So that obviously meant I bought a Cross bike. A Felt FX95. I only managed to get to two races, one at Cyclopark and one at Hillingdon. Cyclopark was a mud bath, Hillingdon was also a mud bath, but at least this time I knew what I was doing, well kind of. I rode well here and placed 8th! CX is another aspect that will feature heavily towards the end of 2015. Although cleaning the bikes isn't that great. 

2014 then was most of all about getting out on the bike and having fun, I bought my first ever new road bike, went on a few epic trips with Lucinda to Scotland and Wales, and enjoying racing against a person with a stop watch and clipboard. I've also started riding with Regents Park Roulers as well as London Phoenix. In essence this consists of 5:45am sessions around Regents Park... These sessions hurt, and are structured which helps me alot. Great bunch of guys and looking forward to riding with them more at ever increasing daft times. Nothing quite like 50 miles before work.

If you've got this far thanks for reading my late review and for following 2014 with me. 2015 I'm hoping will be just as much fun, more TTs, more HCs and more adventures. 

 Goals to follow in another post, and some photos from the year below:

Because Winter is Hard Enough: What Winter Kit?

For anybody who knows me, or indeed has ridden with me in winter (or summer, spring and autumn) they'll know that I am not very good when it comes to staying warm, even a slight breeze and bit of shade in summer could be an issue, and will have me reaching for a long sleeve jersey. last winter I was almost prepared, but still got cold, this winter though I am determined to not get cold, wear the right kit and above all else feel my fingers so I can still unlock my front door at the end of the ride.

In light of various cycling websites currently looking at "essential winter kit" most of which seems to be rather expensive... I though people may find it interesting to see what i'm using this winter, and what kit I have used over the past years to try and stay warm. Also given the past weekend was -0.5 degrees and I did a 9 hour ride I should be quite a good place to give my opinion on some latest purchases. I'll start from the head and work down...

An Original Buff - £15
Every cyclist should own one of these, cheap, thin and versatile, you can stuff in your pocket if too hot or put over your whole face if too cold, well not over the eyes. I've worn these for years and always rated them highly. Although i'm sure most cyclists will be aware of their awesoem properties, I thought it was worth a quick mention.
http://www.buffwear.co.uk/buff-adult-headwear/original-buff

Condor Belgian Winter Cap - £19.99
Belgian cycling caps are cool, fact. Not only do they look good, but they keep your head and ears warm on even the coldest days, i've tried a few over the past years, Waltz and Seal Skinz to name a few, but this one from Condor has so far been brilliant. The fit under your helmet is good with no too much material to make this uncomfortable. The material is also weather resistant and insulating (which was appreciated in yesterday's commute!) and the peak offers additional protection from the elements. Certainly looking forward to wearing this in proper cold temperatures.
http://www.condorcycles.com/Headwear/24305-Condor-Winter-Hat/flypage.tpl.html

Cycling Cap - > £5
Simply, stylish and cool. A traditional cycling cap can offer just a little bit more protection on cold and autumnal days, no protection for your ears though, so in my experience only to be worn when not too cold. Every cyclist should own at least one (preferably more) of these.

Rapha Merino Draw-cord Hat - £30
Essentially a thicker and therefore warmer Buff. this versatile merino hat has certainly has kept my head warm when stopped at a cafe or post ride (or hill climb spectating) and also really good and keeping your neck and chin warm when that wind is extra icey.. Yes it's is quite expensive at £30, so not what I would class as essential, but looks good, functions well, versatile and really does keep you warm, I really do like this, alot.
http://www.rapha.cc/gb/en/shop/merino-drawcord-hat/product/SND04

DHB Merino Base Layer - £38
Up until a few months ago I had no Merino clothing, not through choice, but I simply hadn't recognised the warming properties that Merino fabrics can bring on cold and wet rides. Merino wool is a natural material with excellent insulation and warming properties from when the weather gets really cold. It comes in different weights, and this M200 weight base layer is perfect for cold rides, and for the past few months it's been great, certainly better and keeping me warm compared to my synthetic base layer once it gets a bit damp and the wind chill is high. The fit is tight, I usually go for a medium in DHB clothing and whilst this does fit, it is very tight (36"-38" chest) The high neckline offers extra warmth and the half zip makes taking the base off easy. Overall a great addition to my cycling draw, it perhaps isn't the cheapest, but the fit and quality in my opinion are worth spending the extra cash on.
http://www.wiggle.co.uk/dhb-merino-zip-neck-base-layer-m-200/

Craft Active Extreme Base - £35
I've had this base for a couple of years now and two winters. It has served me well and kept me warm on long days in the saddle. Unlike the Merino, this base is made from synthetic material, however still keeps you warm in cold weather. It is also lighter and thinner than my Merino base, yet still close fitting and warm, although in my experience not as warm as my merino, and if the temperatures are really cold then i'll go for the Merino. The fit however is good, and the sleeves are long, which is a bonus for me. A great base layer for when it's cold, but perhaps stick with merino if it's really cold?
http://www.wiggle.co.uk/craft-active-extreme-long-sleeve-base-layer/

More Mile LS Thermal Jersey - £13
So More Mile is known for cheap running kit, they also do cycling stuff. I bought their LS thermal jersey about 18 months ago, so has been through 1 winter, and for the money is has been simply brilliant. I mean a thermal jersey for £13. This jersey is a Polyester & Lycra blend with a nice soft fleece lining, a full zip, 3 good size pockets at the rear and a small zip pocket too. The fit is also excellent, unlike many cheap jersey which often resemble a plastic bag, the fit is good and very slim fitting on the body and arms (which are also nice a long) Whilst is the very coldest conditions this and a base layer may not be enough, i've found upto around 1-2 degrees it's been great. The only two things I would change is the jersey is quite long in the body and back, and the neck isn't very high. Apart from that and for the money a perfect jersey.
http://www.startfitness.co.uk/more-mile/mens/cycle-jerseys/more-mile-tourmalet-thermal-long-sleeve-cycle-jersey-mm1455.html

Vermarc Club LS Jersey
A close fitting race cut LS jersey in club colours from Vermarc, infact it's quite old now, but i've been using it for 3 winters now, slightly thicker material and fleece lined, well it used to be anyway. Very comfortable and perfect with a thicker base layer until the temperature drops below 6-7 degrees. The club kit is now Champion Systems, I am yet to try their winter/autumn jersey offering so for now, i'll stick with the old faithful. Closest I can find it this jersey;
http://www.vermarc.co.uk/jerseys-1/strada-long-sleeved-jersey-black

Rapha Davis Phinney Jersey - £140 (50% off sale)
My first Rapha Jersey (probably many people's first given a few weeks ago it was on at 50% off) I have always liked Rapha clothing, jerseys in particular, however struggled to justify the £140+ price tag they fetch, at half price though this was a bargain. I went for medium and the fit is quite frankly brilliant, short in the body so when you're on the bike it doesn't bulge, long in the arms to provide adequate protection to your wrists, and tight/slim on the chest, everything a cycling jersey should be, and all very simple points. The material is Sportwool, or also known as Merino, so ideal for Autumnal and winter rides. Past few rides I have paired this jersey with a single DHB Merino Base (above) and been warm enough even down to around 3 degrees, which I was impressed with. Couple this with a heavier winter jacket and I think you'd be onto a winter beating collection, however not something I have tried, after all it's not that cold yet. Overall a great mid weight Merino jersey that fits very well and looks the part and feels great. Only downside, you may have people come up and ask if you bought that in the sale (yes that happened the other day) At £70 it's a bargain, at £140 i'm not so sure...
http://www.rapha.cc/gb/en/shop/davis-phinney-jersey/product/DPJ01

DHB Windslam Gilet - £35
Another old faithful. I've had this gilet now for a couple of winters and is my go to piece of clothing when just a jersey and base simply wont do. The softshell like outer fabric is water resistance, and the fleece lining on the front means your core remains warm. The rear has a mesh panel which is great and means your back doesn't get too sweaty during high intensity rides. The fit, like most DHB products is slim, and close fitting, short in the body so the material doesn't bulk, with the full zip and high neckline providing extra warmth. For the price I don't think you can go wrong, and has kept me warm on cold days. Wiggle suggest using this down to aground 10 degrees, but I have been warm in temperatures down to 3, like today's commute for example...
http://www.wiggle.co.uk/dhb-windslam-roubaix-gilet/

DHB Vaeon Bib Tights (Roubaix) - £45
Up until recently i've never had bib tights. Odd you might say, but I have always found that leg warmers and bib shorts work well (providing they are roubaix lined). That was until I tried a pair of bib longs and went on a ride. Wow these were warm and very comforting, these were the future. I opted for the unpadded version I can wear bib shorts under for a little extra warmth, and so far this has worked well. These Vaeon tights offer an excellent fit, have a nice fleece lining and zips at the bottom to ensure getting on and off is easier.The best bit about bib tights though is the extra warmth around your torso, and the fleece lining offers an extra layer over a base to ensure your vital organs keep warm even in the coldest weather. I certainly found this to be the case at the weekend, when the temperature dropped to below zero, yet I still stayed warm, unlike I suspect should I have been wearing leg warmers. These are DHB's mid price bib tights, and I think offer excellent value for money.
http://www.wiggle.co.uk/dhb-vaeon-roubaix-unpadded-bib-tight/

DHB Regulate Warm Leg Warmers (Roubaix) - £22
Simple and very effective, i've been using leg warmers for the past few winters and they have been great. Although as I have said above, and pair of bib tights are ideal for the very coldest weather, anything around 5 degrees these are excellent and provide superb levels of warmth. They are also very cheap at £22 and fit well under your bib shorts. These warm regulate models from DHB have grippers at the top on the inside and outside to ensure bib shorts don't ride up, or leg warmers fall down. Reflective pipping on the rear ensure a little bit of extra visibility in the dark. I still use these for commuting and slightly warmer rides, and if you get too hot take them off (although I haven't done that)
http://www.wiggle.co.uk/dhb-regulate-warm-leg-warmers/

DHB Merino Socks - £7
COLD FEET! Ah cold feet are simply the worst, getting home from a ride and not being able to feel your toes is something most if not all cyclists will know about. Whilst these Merino socks are certainly not the thickest they offer excellent levels of warmth. I have been wearing just these under my shoes & overshoes the past month and my toes and feet have been warm, which is surprising. I also use the DBH winter socks, which are thicker and don;t fit as well as the Merino version. Socks are something I personally think you NEED to get right, the wrong pair of socks and your kit doesn't look good. (Summer: Long & White, nothing else) These offer good length and over a pair of tights or leg warmers go well. Yet again, a great price point from DHB and excellent quality. Another favorite of mine.
http://www.wiggle.co.uk/dhb-merino-sock/

Prendas Aqualite Overshoes - £30
I have been riding in this since Prendas sent me a pair to review in April. I managed to catch the last of the bad weather and up until two ago haven't really needed needed them. However they are now my "go to" pair of overshoes, although not waterproof (they are resistant) they offer excellent levels of warmth and really insulate your feet, ensuring they keep warm on even the coldest day, such as the weekend's temperatures of below zero! I've only been wearing one pair of merino socks, and that for me has been enough.
They have worn well, and have been used for commuting and normal riding, so plenty of walking and feet down action, with only a few small signs of wear on the front of the overshoe underside. The fit and material are still tight and aero over your shoes, with the only thing i'd really change being the need for an extra long upper leg section. You can read a more detailed review on this in my blog, and buy them from Prendas:
http://www.prendas.co.uk/prendas-ciclismo-aqua-light-winter-overshoes.html

BBB Waterflex Shoecovers - £28
A fairly recent new addition to my cycling clothing, these BBB Waterflex Over shoes have only been used a few times when the weather has been truly shocking & wet. Like with the Prendas overshoes they are fleece lined for extra warmth, but unlike Prendas they are waterproof and I can confirm this is the case. Even in the wettest weather my feet stayed dry, which given temperatures and dropping is essential. The only issue I have so far is the fit isn't very flattering, your feet feel quite bulky and the velcro fastening underneath the shoe does work, but doesn't seal the whole of the upper part of the shoe. For when it's dry and cold i'll stick with Prendas, but when it's wet I will ring these out. Good price on Wiggle at the moment too:
http://www.wiggle.co.uk/bbb-waterflex-shoe-covers/

Prendas Oversocks - £7.95
Yup, socks that go over your shoes. A simple and traditional way to keep your feet warm when the temperature start to drop. A bonus, they also look great! These Cordura overshoes offer good protection to your shoes from the elements and give a little extra warmth and wind resistance. Not much good for the coldest days I have found, but in anything around 8 degrees and up you'll be fine. I use the Fluro Yellow option for increased visibility when out on the road. Obviously being made from thin material if you unclip a lot you will get through a set fairly quickly, but they they are only £7.95. What's not to like, cheap, look good and are effective.
http://www.prendas.co.uk/prendas-cordura-oversocks.html

Seal Skinz Performance Winter Gloves - £55
First things first these are £55. That is alot of money no two ways about it, but cycling with cold hands it's not fun, it's painful and actually quite dangerous. For the past 4/5 years i've been wearing Seal Skinz first incarnation of winter gloves, they have been great, although have now seen better days, so was time for a replacement, and with something better. I'd read the reviews and done some research and these seemed the best bet for full finger gloves. Their first really cold ride was last weekend and sub zero, I also wore glove liners for extra warmth, and whilst I did eventually warm up my fingers were cold. Not ideal I thought. having said that the gloves are excellent, fully wind and waterproof, thermal with a nice fleece lining and comfortable pads. unlike some thick winter gloves, dexterity is still maintained and shifter and braking remains easy whilst also feeling in control. Overall a great winter glove, not cheap, and my hands were still a bit cold (that's probably my circulation) and totally waterproof.
http://www.sealskinz.com/UK/gloves/performance-thermal-road-cycle-glove

DeFeet  Duragloves - £17
Another classic autumn and light winter glove. These DeFeet merino gloves are a favourite of many riders. They are cheap, thin so are breathable, yet also keep you surprisingly warm, i've had a number of pairs and always rated them highly. Also come in a range of colours, such as High Vis Yellow which is ideal for commuting. In recend colder days I have put my glove liners under these for extra warmth or worn these under thicker gloves for even more warmth, and very versatile product.
http://www.defeet.com/60299/Duragloves.html

Aldi Glove Liners - £2.99
Cheap, simple, light and thin. These offer an excellent wind proof pair of gloves to use under other gloves. I've used these with with my DeFeet and Seak Skinz for effective layering and they have so far worked as well as can be expected. That being said my hands were still a little cold at the weekend... But that's probably just me. Whether you use these or other gloves liners, something that I would recommend and do help keep you warmer. For Aldi cycling kit keep an eye of their special buys on the website. In store only.

Thanks for reading, now try and keep warm out there, and don't fall over on the ice!

Race Report - London CX League - Round 8

So, my very first cross race was on Sunday, and i'd chosen the London CX League to break myself in gently... Round 8 (yeah, bit late aren't I) was held in Gravesend, Kent at Cyclopark. A venue i'm familiar with, but only on the crit circuit not the grassy tracks and berms they also have there.

I'd spent the past few weeks getting used to my new cross bike, a Felt F95X, (Sora finishing kit, mini V-brakes and aluminium frame) with a  mixture of commuting and a few rides around Sherwood Pines. I was now really looking forward to testing it out in it's first race, and just seeing how both I and the bike would do.

My rational behind choosing Cyclopark, apart from being free this weekend it was quite easy to get too, and my thinking was that quite a bit of the race will be on the man made mountain bike trails they have built there, so hardpack gravel and surfaces that drain well, and wont be that muddy... Ow how wrong I was!

I rocked up with Lucinda supporting, and with plenty of time to sign on and do the usual faffing and bike sorting out. As it happened I didn't really know what I was doing having never been to a cross race before, but how hard can it be. Not very hard it turns out, everybody is very helpful and I had enough time to watch the Vets finish their race, all of whom looked very muddy...  Whilst standing around there was a lot of tyre deflating, people checking pressures and what seemed to be last minute nerves. My pump doesn't show pressures that well, but i had opted to run around 30psi on Vittoria Cross XLs, which from a report I have read seemed around right. As the vets race finished I managed to grab a few words of wisdom from some of the finishers, all said it was rather muddy out there, their bikes, brakes and drive-trains seemed to agree!

The Seniors were now allowed onto the course for a practice lap before the 1:45pm start time. The start was on the small tarmac drag up past the sign on building and cafe, you were then chucked into a series of tight twists and turns on the grass, traction was limited at best and I was all over the place, how was I meant to race on this? This was just the practice lap. Never the less I ploughed on (literally) and slowly made my way around the course, each section offering a different challenge, and the option of whether to walk or not. I made my way around to the start and pits area, it was now time to race.

Around 70 riders lined up, a few names and faces that I recognised from summer and spring crit racing, a few clubs i've never seen a few people on mountain bikes. The BC commissioner then started to call people through based on current league position and therefore points, needless to say i wasn't in this list, and as such around 40 rides remained in the group that hadn't been called forward. We then all edged forward and the countdown began. Now before the race i had asked a few mates and Twitter for some tips. The main point was concentrate on the start, so with that in mind as the whistle went I powered off the start line, as did everybody else surrounded by a rumble of tyres. We all hit the grass and I was maybe 40 from the front, which means I wasn't last, but also not a great position. The first lap consisted of trying to stay upright and not run into people, especially hard in the first section where many of the turns were 180 degrees, and very tights. Through this section was a grassy downhill into an off camber longer and shallow corner, a place that surly catch riders out,foot out the pedal to help with balance and I was through. the next section was fun, and you could build up some speed, all be it the section was slightly uphill but on compacted man made trails with tight berms so pace and heart rate were both high! You then shoot down the back of the course, along a long flat-ish grassy section, then into some bumps on more man made trails before you hit a sharp left turn effectively straight up a bank. Impossible to ride so I jumped off and ran up, quickly managed to get back n and carried on, down some steep and tight sections, but overall seeming to handle these well, clearly my mountain biking skills were paying off (as I had hoped!) Next section was back onto very soft and very wet (think clay) mud, going p and then down a few small banks with tight turns at the top, again, managed these ok before being taken across the tarmac and onto a long grass section to the other end of the course. At which point you were sent upwards onto a bank, covered in small tress and bushes with a small line through the middle, progress here was painfully slow, and many opted to run, I decided to ride, which may or may not have been a mistake, i'm till unsure on this. This section then lead onto a section which I seemed to a hate, a slight uphill drag on the grass, I seemed to hardly move, but thankfully this was short and then onto a faster gravel section, by now the bike and me were both very muddy, but not the kid of mud that comes off, the kind of mud that just sticks to you, sticks to your bike, and worst of all sticks to your frames, brakes and drivetrain! This was made worse by the next section being really quite tough and up and down some steep banks with tight twists. Nevertheless I was riding them all, and feeling confident, people were dropping off the back or pulling out all over the place, this however was mainly down to mechanicals! snapped mechs seemed to be the order of the day!

Now onto the second of 5 laps, each lap is only 2 miles long, but that's plenty I think... Now getting the hang of the course a little better and not being surrounded by other riders and started to make my way through the field, and by the time I had reached the second half of this lap Lucinda told me I was likely top 20, surprising! A good battle emerged between myself and two other riders on this lap, with me eventually getting the better off them both on a steep climb coming into the pit section, they both ran up, and I rode, this meant I had enough momentum to carry on at a decent speed. Out onto the third lap and the bike was getting heavier and more clogged up, through the first couple of sections with no issues, seeing a few people kicking their bikes due to snapped mechs and then carrying them to the finish or pits. I then had a brief moment where I ran out of skill & Control hitting a section of course tape, no issues I thought, until it found itself jammed into my rear wheel and brake! Gutted, off I get and try and free the mess, managed but loose a few places in the process, but still back on and moving, dislodging some of the mud in the process! Now riding on my own, I can see riders in front, and do seem to be catching them, whether they are lapped riders though i'm not sure and i can imagine the officials have a hard time of keeping track of positions. Onto the penultimate lap now, and bike is so clogged up when i get off the wheel doesn't move, maybe I should have stopped and cleared this? I didn't though. Next ting I know I hit the deck, making a tight turn on one of the banks I loose momentum and fall, nothing bad thankfully and actually quite good fun, back on and power up to finish the 4th lap. Cross the line and onto the final one, I was hurting now, legs, arms, bike, heart, but it was so much fun. Think the endorphins helped and I set a quick time, and in the process catching a few more riders, but to say the least i was happy to cross the line! Absolutely no idea where I came but it was amazing fun, and a really insight into my first cross race!

Turns out I came 25th out of 68 starters. So not too bad I don't think. I learnt a lot, however almost too much to post in this blog post, so think that will be separate post!

Strava link: http://www.strava.com/activities/219973111

Thanks to the organisers, Cyclopark, people cheering, Lucinda, Dave Haywood for the Photos and all the competitors. I'll certainly be back!

Thanks for reading!

Race Report: ELV Mott Street HC

As the Hill Climb nationals approach i'm sure all the favourites are planning to take part in a TT the day before? No? Either way I really fancied giving the East London Velo Hill Climb event a shot. Held in deepest Essex on Mott Street, just on the edge of Epping Forest.

Mott Street, as featured in 100 Greatest Climbs book is indeed a good little climb, and one I've only ridden once before. Total length of 1.5 miles with an average at 4%, however the hill climb is held on the final section of the climb, totalling 0.6 miles at 7% average, with a few sections at 13% and the last ramp around 12%, it's certainly a climb with an ever changing gradient, and therefore one where getting into a rhythm is quite hard.

Registration from 9:15am with first rider off at 10am, so Lucinda and I made the 14 mile ride over from Finchley, conditions were not ideal, and the roads were quite damp. Legs seemed to feel fine though so all seemed well. We decided to ride up Mott Street before sign on, mainly because I really couldn't remember what the climb was like... being quite a minor road, with not much traffic the tarmac wasn't in great condition, and was fairly wet and muddy. Conditions which meant that a few psi out the tyres would probably be a good idea to aid with grip.

As the traditional que of riders lined up I managed to get an early spot and was 6th rider off (entry on day only) Number on and off to Mott Street to find a good heckling place for Lucinda to shout at me and do a rep or two to warm up. As it happens I only had time to ride up once more, however managed to assess the right lines and likely gears i'll need to be in at what points of the climb. After the first ramp of 13% there was a small section of flat (ish) this should give me a chance to build up some momentum for the final drag to the top, or at least this was the aim. Time wise I had no idea what I would do, I met Aaron at the top who did a 2:10 last year, and won a similar event on the same course held my Lee Valley CC, So I suspect a similar time around 2:15 would be doable, maybe...

Down at the bottom atmosphere was fairly relaxed and the first 5 riders sprinted off, to the sounds of cheering and cow bells ringing. I was off next and feeling good. 5,4,3,2,1... I sprint in the smaller front ring (39T) and far down the back cogs (closer ratios) managing to build up a good amount of speed, when I hit the first steep section, down a few gears, but the pace was still high, and I hadn't slipped on the wet yet, over the crest and it flattens off, I briefly sit down, aero position and build the cadence up before quickly getting out the saddle again for the final two steep sections, the first of which did catch me off guard, when I took the inside, slightly steeper and wetter line, an error on my part here, and my cadence dropped. Nevertheless a few gear clicks down again and I was back out the saddle and pulling on the bars, around the final corner I could see (and hear) Lucinda and the rest of the spectators shouting, the finish line was in sight. A last dig and I cross the line. Time on the Garmin showed 2:11, official time was 2:08.

As we watched the other riders come in, some looking a little too quick for my liking I studied the rider times I far far I appeared to be second behind Adam French! With Simon Warren off 100 Climbs fame the last rider on the course. he crossed the line in 2:12 and to my surprise that placed me 2nd. Looking back at my run, I think I could have tried harder, but then don't you always say that? Next time, if conditions are better I reckon a sub 2:05 is there for the taking, which was the winning time off the day, and the 4th victory for Adam in as many years, great riding! Overall around 45 riders signed up, so a fairly decent sized field.

Special thanks to East London Velo for hosting the event, the Marshalls, Lucinda for the shouting, Mott Street Church and the bakers for putting on some rather excellent cake of coffee facilities.

Strava: http://www.strava.com/activities/209132731

Race Report: Brickendon (F7/10) TT

This Saturday was the inaugural London Phoenix & Islington CC Time Trail. Using the "sporting" Brickendon F7/10 course in Hertfordshire. A course I have done before and ridden on the roads countless number of times, so thankfully I know the course well.  

As Lucinda and I rode to the start it was clear that conditions were not ideal, there was a headwind coming from the West and the roads were damp, not to mention the fact that the Met Office was convinced it would rain from the start time of 2pm. Nevertheless around 45 people turning up to sign on in Brickendon Village Hall, eat cake and drink coffee. I was keen to try and get off early before the weather changed too much, so lined up and was given number 9. Number pinned on and bottle half full it was time to warm up, a few miles up and down the road to get the legs moving again and I then found myself on the start line in a que of riders. 

My form of late seems to be good, even though I am not riding much because of work, and only getting out at the weekend for a few hours on one day. I guess you could probably say I'm well rested, if nothing else. My aim for this event was a time around the 22min mark, I knew I wouldn't be looking at a PB (21:48) given conditions, so anything around this level would be good, and of course depending who was riding would probably place me in the top 5 times of the day. 

The F7/10 course is essentially a 3 miles downhill, followed by a nasty 2 mile flat section due East along Hertford Road, then up Robins Rest, a 1 mile climb, only averaging 4% but this can be where you either gain or loose alot of time. From then it's mainly flat back into Bayford & Brickendon for the final hill sprint finish of 0.3 miles at 5% a real leg burner at the end. Total distance is just shy of 10 miles though at 9.1. Certainly what the CTT would class as a sporting course (hilly)

I was off, and quickly upto speed, holding around 30mph, which as I said above is a gradual downhill certainly sounds more impressive than it is. Still my goal on this section was to be as aero as possible and conserve as much energy as possible, legs obviously now burning, but I felt really good and I reach the junction with Hertford Road having averaged 30.4mph for the 2.8 miles. The next mile was hard, teh headwind and general road conditions were slow, I could see the average speed going down, however I maintained by aero position and ploughed on, at which point I could see a rider ahead, no worries I thought, however there were also two cars behind the rider, and given the nature of the road were finding it hard to overtake in a safe nature. I reached reached the cars which were going maybe 20mph, nightmare! Fortunately I was only slowed down briefly as a gap opened up and I went around. Settled back into my rhythm for a few hundred yards and it was then a left turn onto Robins Nest. The lower "slopes" are certainly the steepest, still only 6% however in an effort to increase my power I was out the saddle and managed to maintain a decent speed, once over the steepest section I was back in the saddle and maintaining the aero position, the worst was over now, and by this point i'd done 6.4 miles in 15:32, not bad, but not a PB time. The last section is mainly flat, and once onto Tylers Causeway I pushed and managed to hold a consistent 27-29mph, final 1 mile and I was into Bayford, I had 0.8 miles to cover in just shy of 2 minutes, a PB could actually be on the cards here I thought! I hit the final Brickendon Hill onto the drops, pulling and willing the bike to float up the hill. I couldn't see my Garmin let along read the numbers, head down, sprinting and hurting, I crossed the line and stopped the Garmin. 21:45! Awesome a PB! 

Warm down and back to the man with a clipboard for my official time. 21:41! I was chuffed, 7 seconds take off my PB and quickest time so far. All riders completed the course and to my surprise I was quickest of the day.

Looking into my data and ride in a bit more detail, I was interested to see where I saved time, and this to my surprise was on the first and last sections of the course. Upto Hertford Road I saved 15 seconds off my previous best time, and this being a gradual down hill was mainly achieved by being as aero as possible. My times on both Robins Rest and Hertford Road were not PBs, but 2nd and 3rd best times, however yet again on the final section into Bayford and Brickendon I managed to knock off another 12 seconds. 

This was on a standard road bike, no aero additions (apart from a skinsuit) normal wheels etc... I reckon with the same set up I can probably go sub 21:20 on a perfect day, and that is indeed my next goal. 

So my first win of the year and a PB, overall happy with my effort and the results. Well done to Neal, James, Nancy and Rachel who also wont their respective categories. 

Special thanks to London Phoenix and Islington CC for hosting the event, all the marshals, the various bakers (the cake was amazing as per usual) and tea/coffee makers and finally Islington Council for the prizes! 

Strava Data: http://www.strava.com/activities/208790282  

Race Report: Catford & Bec Hill Climbs

The day had arrived, the day of the classic Catford and Bec Hill climbs, both located in Surrey, One in the morning, and one in the afternoon. Catford on the infamous 0.4 mile York Hill, averaging 12% with some tasty sections at 25%, with Bec then on White Lane, slightly shorter at 0.3 miles but averaging 13%, and yet again a few sections/ramps/walls at 25%... The Bec this year made even more special by the fact David Millar had chosen this event for his last every professional race, what an honour. What a legend.

Catford
First rider was off at 9am for Catford, so myself and Simon from LP got the train down there, didn't fancy another 40 mile ride from North London. We arrived with plenty of time, however not enough time to have a few practice runs. To add to the fun the ground was surprisingly wet, which meant conditions would be interesting. After a standard amount of faffing, deciding what to wear and cheering on fellow competitors it was time to head down to the start line. We had to slowly make our way down Yorks Hill and well, the top section was steep, very narrow and covered in twigs and stones, so perfect eh? I was off quite early (49) and had no real idea what time i'd do, as I was riding down the climb to line up for the off it certainly felt longer than I was expecting, and also not a constant gradient.
Now in line, and riders were setting off, next thing I know i'm up, and one of the marshalls is holding me up, whilst i'm clipped in, and counting down. 30 seconds to go. It's only 2 minutes (ish) I thought, wont be that bad. I was off, starting in the 39T ring and 4th cog from the top (12-28) allowed me a decent level of acceleration, however that also meant wheel spin! No time to sit down and straight out the saddle trying to pick the best line on what was quite a narrow road, I moved into the middle, where the tarmac seemed dryer, but that was a mistake, instant wheel spin as I hit some loose stones. Back to the left just in time for the first 25% section, my cadence was all wrong here and I almost ground to as stop, I really should have shifted down. Over this section and the gradient eases off (around 11%) I stamp on the pedals and gain some speed, on the steepest section now, the crowd going crazy, shouting and screaming in my ears! Legs and chest were burning now, all I could feel was pain, and all I could see was that chequered board and the finish line. I crossed the line, collapsed on my handlebars and gasped for air. I was done, and that hurt. After sitting/standing there for a minute I collected myself and got off, a quick check of the times so far and i'd done aright. 2:15, 3rd fastest, although that wont stay for long, the fast lads were still to come. I stayed around and cheered on friends, club mates and other fellow suffers and gathered for the final unveiling of times. 1:55 was in winning time to James Lowden, well done that man!

Bec
After a quick recovery cup of coffee it was a short 10 mile ride to the Bec Hill climb on York Road. The ride was an obviously slow affair which resulted in riding up York Road to sign on. Well this was steep... however it was a good opportunity to scout out the road, areas to avoid and lines to take. Unlike the Catford, York Road was quite steep straight from the off, with a gradual ramp upto the peak of 25% and then easing off for the finish line. Again not a hill I had ridden before, so no real idea of my expected time. Registration and number pinning on done I had a quick bite to eat (scotch pancakes FTW) and it was off for a quick ride to warm up. Again, off quite early thankfully, it was down to the bottom, to yet again stand in a line and ask yourself why do you do this? 30 Seconds to go and i'm feeling good, cold, but good. Power straight from the off, standing and pushing the bike from side to side, really trying to build up some momentum on the bottom half of the course. This seemed to drag, there was very few spectators on the bottom slopes and the finish, all 0.3 miles away, still seemed a long time away. I was however feeling strong, the crowd grew louder and louder, and on the flatter section I took the opportunity to sit down (error?) and build my cadence up before hitting the 25% section. I was on it now, legs burning again, face pulling some obviously interesting expressions and the pain rising. I clicked down though the gears, pushed as hard as I could as the course flattened off to line. I crossed the line, for some reason screaming, mainly in pain, maybe a bit in relief that it was over? Yet more collapsing over the bars and gasping for breath I sat my bike down and went to drink some coke. Finish time of 2:10 and fastest of the day so far, again though, all the fast lads were still to come, including that Millar chap. I was pleased though, I think. Winning time for the Bec was Ex national hill climb champ in a ridiculous time of 1:49. (Millar did a 2:03 btw - 21st)

So overall I came 25th in Catford and 34th in Bec. I did want top 20, but I was a little naive in underestimating the competition, which included ex national hill climb champ and a number of previous years winners, as well as some very very quick climbers. Given the prestigious nature of both events though I should not have been surprised.

So things I learnt. As well as power it's ALL about weight, there were some brilliant purpose built HC bikes, fixed, single speed, single ring, chopped handle bars, carbon wheels. All the works. The top riders as well were all rather small, lower 60kgs i'd have guessed, which certainly would have helped.  Whilst both myself and my bike aren't heavy if I want to target hill climbs I need to work on this a little bit. A 2 minute climb is also not my ideal length, 4 minutes is perhaps better suited to my style and power, and i'll certainly be looking for events around this type of length to target. I don't think I would have done anything different, less pressure in the tyres for both climbs might have helped, but apart from that I just need to get better.

Overall i'm loving (weirdo) hill climbs, the traditional nature of a person with a clipboard and the me against gravity nature really does appeal to me.

Strava links:
Catford - http://www.strava.com/activities/206303781
Bec - http://www.strava.com/activities/206432642

Thanks again for reading, onto the next hill now. Where is that hacksaw...