Thanks to Jed for the video, at the bottom of this article!
After rain on week 1 and a diesel spillage on week 2 (we found out this was the result of an accident involving Alex Ferguson’s grandchildren), the only hazard tonight was a low sun and a strong wind – but no complaints, it was a beautiful evening and our reward was that we had to do the full 6 laps.
Once again I’m a bit vague about the results but I gather Nick did v. well in his race, getting into a break and coming in 4th. Craig’s race was v. fast and hard and got strung out – he wasn’t sure where he or Dave came. Graham came 4th (I think) in his – I wasn’t that far behind him but I don’t know where exactly. Other WVCC riders were Dave Astles who put in a great effort on the front on the last lap, Mark Thomson whose wheel I stuck to on the last couple of laps, and Chas who said he got dropped after trying to stay with breaks. Alan Kemp appeared from nowhere in the second lap, having arrived late, only to join a break which stayed away. In support were John C, Kevan, Kevin, Jed and Andy Poole who is recuperating.
It’s difficult to describe how exhilarating it is for a relative beginner like me to join a race – the pre-match nerves, apprehension at the line up, relief when the pace is OK and all out concentration when it picks up, the focus on staying on the right wheel and trying not to get told off by the old hands in the pack, the turns through-and-offing on the front, the feeling that you’re flying in your big ring, the amazing tow you get when you’re in the right place in the pack, the fast sprints out of the corners, the desperation when you’re trying to help bridge a gap, the excitement of the final sprint – and then the elation of finishing! And then the best bit, a well deserved cup of tea and FANTASTIC home-made cake.
Eleanor.
Great description, Eleanor, in the last paragraph about the the exhilarations and feelings experienced in road racing. Although it is quite new to you , I still feel the same way even now!
Really good to see so many club members having a go at road racing with several very promising results beginning to show as riders gain experience and confidencem
Hopefully your article will inspire even more club members to have a go and see what they have been missing.
Keep up the good work on the articles Eleanor . I really enjoy reading them.
Alan
I agree with Alan’s comments.
Keep up the blog Eleanor, it is always a good read and I share your feelings about racing as I am new to it as well.
It sounds from Alan as if it doesn’t get any easier, even with experience.
I tried to post a comment yesterday saying just the same as Alan – that those feelings you have are just the same as mine and the adrenalin rush is why I do it (I think).
Keep on blogging El and don’t forget Saturday’s off road ride at Delamere.
yes i like further the comment bike racing gives me aderalin, the pain, the saftisation, mainly the enjoyment it gives me, what a great sport.
Watching on tuesday night i so wish i was there racing and not recovering from an injury cannot wait till i start to push them pedals in anger.
Good to see you were there on Tuesday Andy – up and about, if not riding yet. Didn’t get chance to say hello!
Thanks for the encouragement chaps.
I like Andy’s comment about pain – my days (years) playing hockey seem like a walk in the park in comparison. Cycling = masochism on 2 wheels!
here are some more videos, you need copy into browser do not how to link it
http://andycyclingpost.blogspot.com/