The Beauty Of Winning Solo!

I always love a good race report. After a classy win at the In Gear Junior Tour Of Sussex Support 3/4 Race John Heaton-Armstrong had this to say:

The course was just over 7 miles. From the HQ, there was a rolling section to the bottom of the climb, which was about 3miles in length, getting a fair bit steeper in the last km. Apparently 200m of ascent every lap. After the start/finish line, there was a bit more climbing, then a reasonably fast rolling section, going into a fast descent. At the bottom of this was a sharp left and the HQ 200 yards from that.

Having arrived with good friend, Doug Baldock (Beyond MBC), had a bit of a chat with various faces I recognised (and some I didn't!), and was also very pleased to see, unexpectedly, another Mozzie - Paul Richards. Paul and I also did Flanders together earlier in the year, in somewhat less pleasant conditions. After lining up, the lead car took us neutralised from the HQ up to the start/finish line, from whence there would be 7/8 laps (I forget which). I had said to Paul to position himself right on the bumper of the car, but for some reason they wouldn't let us get close. I used the excuse of giving them my gilet to ride up to the back of the car, which gave me a little gap off the front of the bunch. As soon as they took the flag in, I (already in the big ring) attacked and started riding hard.

I had an idea that the bunch would think I was crazy to go from the start. My plan was that they would either chase me, and in so doing drop some people; that a few would cross the gap and I would go with them; or, least likely, I would stay away alone. After 1 lap I had about 1min, and after 2, the moto-marshall told me 1min30s. Having ridden quite hard to this point, I decided to ease off a bit, to get some recovery for my legs. Going into the third lap, the lead car was stuck behind a bus, so I made the naughty decision to overtake both. Midway through the third lap, the Dynamo Rider (Jason) caught up, and I took a rest on his wheel - we agreed to work together. Initially I was quite worried as he was going very well, but then he went backwards fast on the climb, meaning that I had to wait for him - this would set the tone for the remaining laps.

We began to work reasonably effectively together, but it was clear that the climb was really taking it out of him, as his turns on the front became shorter and slower. Consequently I put longer turns in to maintain the gap. With 2 laps to go we had over 2 mins on the group, but were told that there was a rider at 1min45. Goodness knows why, but I took this as a possible threat, and put in some big digs on the front. However, on the penultimate ascent of the climb it was clear from the view that both he, and the group were a very long way off.

We didn't drop the pace that much on the last lap, though Jason was really suffering now, with cramp as well. I didn't ride away from him immediately, and allowed him to catch up so we could finish reasonably close together. However, as Sean Kelly (my hero!) would say, I had the measure of him on the climb, and only had to push in the last kilometre to drop him. As I came to the line, I zipped up my jersey, and pointed to the sky as a little thanks to the Madonna of Ghisallo for keeping me safe during the race.

Some Excellent Race Photo's

Bank Holiday Threshold Training: 2 x 20

I haven't done a 2 x 20 in a few weeks now. The non-stop rain this bank holiday Monday ruled out a long endurance ride so it was with some trepidation that I got out Kylie (KK Turbo trainer). My Ipod's f'd so distraction would have to come from a DVD. I went for 2005 TDF, the stage won by George Hincapie. The first 20 was typically real hard work - av cadence 90rpm; gears 53/17 av power 318watts. I took a well deserved ten minute break where I sent an email, devoured a packet of Thai chilli crisps read two text messages and swallowed half a can of coke.

The second twenty minute period was slightly less stressful and completed at 320watts. I'm not sure whether my fitness has really improved much since I started racing in mid March but that session felt pretty tough. Big George's sprint win against Oscar P has to be the laziest lumbering sprint win ever :-)

Training Days: Regents Park

Most of my outdoor training is spent on the 2.7 mile Regents Park loop. On sunday I got the pleasure of riding around with Mosquito Bikes strong man, Jason Pidd. Jason hasn't pinned any numbers on his back this year but regardless is clearly firing on all cylinders. Sometimes I was only able to ride alongside him without actually taking a pull as he powered along in 53/13 into a slight head wind.

Our slightly unbalanced 2UP soon became a 3UP when Simon "grumpy bastard" Bild showed up. We kept the pace nice and high for more than ninety minutes before I peeled off and left Jason to tow Simon around for a few more laps. Regents Park hasn't got the lumpyness or character of Richmond Park perhaps but then it has its plus points. As I've said before, can you see three adult Giraffe's close up when your out training on your bike? ;-).

Palace: 4 out of Ten

There were only 50-60 3/4 riders at Palace this week (21/05/07). With a few of stronger 3rd cats moving up to 2nd cat and one or two sampling things at Hillingdon it meant the pace wasn't quite the rip roaring affair of previous weeks. If you were still unfortunate enough to fall away that would be us 'agreeable' chaps you should thank. Both Kieran and Palace debutant Mike still managed to keep things nice and spicey for the first few laps

Eventually Mike and a Dulwich Paragon rider made their successful bids for freedom with around 10 laps to go; some bunch pacing from my good self and the arrival of the E12 shift workers created enough of a distraction and the two they stayed away. A lap later two became three when Hal (ACC) launched himself across on the climb. Then with a little more Addiscombe stress busting at the front of the bunch and we all settled in for a moderately paced affair.

Since the top three position were assured I decided to lead everyone up the climb for the final time and myself and Steve (ACC) bagged 10th and 9th spot respectively. So ACC had four in the top ten. Mmmm...getting better and my first point of the season. Well...I've never been one to rush things ;-)

3/4
1 Valvas Grabahskas Dulwich Paragon
2 Hal Bransby Addiscombe CC @ 3 secs
3 Michael Wallis Addiscombe CC
4 Felix English Corridori @ 18 secs
5 Jason Green London Dynamo/Cyclefit
6 David Arthur RCUK
7 David Reece Dulwich Paragon
8 Steven Broomfield Addiscombe CC
9 Matt Goodes De Laune CC
10 Toks Adesanya Addiscombe CC

BCF Elite Circuit Series : 3/4/W support race

This was one of those instantly forgettable races - Hillingdon in reverse, 80+ field, wet circuit, twitchy riding, nobody could get away and er... See... like I said instantly forgettable ;-) http://www.britishcycling.org.uk/web/site/BC/roa/EventReports2008/20080517_Hillingdon_GP.asp

Palace 13.05.08: School Report!

School: Crystal Palace, Criterium for Hard Knocks
HeadTeachers: Warrick Spence & Eric Rowsell
Pupil: Toks Adesanya (Ade Merckx)
Date Of Race: 13/05/08
Racing Category 3rd Cat
Subjects: preparation, bike handling, race reading, race fitness, sprinting power and winning mentality

Preparation
Not Great: The decision to put "Boost" in his drinks bottle never having tasted it before, stop off for some reason at Evans Cycles and having to find a cash machine near Palace inevitably meant he arrived with only ten minutes spare. He chose not ride the circuit before hand and get a good starting position which was a smart move.
Grade C

Bike Handling
This is usually one of Ade's strong points when its not wet. However he became a little twicthy on occasions even on the hairpin bend which is unusual.
Grade B-

Race Reading
Poor. His decision to stay mid pack for mostof the race wasn't the best idea. In fact ultimately this plan failed since he tended to yo-yo throughout the bunch. This was also coupled with lapses of concentration probably due to excess amounts of traffic on the circuit - 130ish riders. So, staring at the tattoo on the big Guy (pun intended) from Dulwich Paragon leg; thinking "wouldn't it be much nicer if I could ride next to Kieran (ACC)" without actually doing anything about it; wondering whether George (Addiscombe) will still take up 400watt threshold challenge, and also concern for the whereabouts of Paul Richards (Mosquito Bikes) on the circuit further clouded his mental sharpness.
Grade C

Race Fitness
Pretty Good. Seem to be able to match jumps and close gaps without excessive effort. However riding numerous laps near the back would have ultimately diminished his improving threshold power. Not seeing the front of the bunch for a non sprinter on his favourite circuit was an outrageous crime!
Grade B

Sprinting Power: Not Applicable :-(

Bunch Riding Skills
Average. Ade can ride in the bunch well but more often than not fails to hold his position. As already mentioned this seems to be a particular concern in large fields where there are lots of pace changes. You should've seen him at Eastway in Bank holiday crits. No wonder he never placed there :-(
Grade C

Winning Mentality
Average. This mental aspect has yet to emerge this season in Ade's racing. He needs to show more hunger and desire in races and be prepared to spend more time in the pain zone.
Grade C+


Students Comments
I was in the pain zone; my calf was hurting quite a bit near the end of the race. Joanna Rowsell (British World Team Pursuit Champ) was really nice and friendly. Don't drink Boost in races it tastes rubbish. How often did the bell ring I found that a bit confusing? Its nice to wear a new Addiscombe jersey, thanks Elliott. I'll get better - hopefully :-)

Richmond Park Challenge: Part Deux

This years version of the Richmond Park 3 lap challenge has been running since early Feb. More than forty Newbies and experienced riders have been committing themselves to an "hour of power" on Southwest London's best training loop. I've been lounging at mid table for a while so it was definitley time to climb back up the table.

Still slightly high from the Vets race and also suffering from some new spring type symptom - I now salivate like a dog in the early hours of the morning anticipating sunrise. 4.20am? oh what the heck then. Two coffees and bagel later I arrived at Roehampton Gate which was completely locked to cars :-) I engaged to 53/18, put the hands on the drops and rolled away at 5.50am precisely; hot sweaty and panting I left the park at 6.44am exactly - just a tad happier than my last attempt. I'm now in 6th Spot:-).

Hillingdon again: VET City

If life begins at 40 I'm just a toddler and some of these guys I'm up against are teenagers ;-) Yes, there was a good size field last Wednesday. 60+ maybe? Historically less competitive big fields ain't good for me. Large bunches tend to make me a little blase' - cozy in my thoughts and in my position.

Not too much energy is required at the back when nervously jostling to maintain 48th place and that suits me a little too well. These VETS races are similar to the average 3rd cat race in terms of the jerky pace - unlike the faster smoother E123races at Hillingdon on a Tuesday night. Anyway my ability or inability to concentrate was given a sharp test on the 5th lap when a big fella lost it slightly on the drag and barged me off line.

That was the wake up call I needed and I literally hit the front and
spent the next 45mins trying to instigate breaks, join breaks or solo off the front. Unfortunately the winning break featuring the main players had literally got going from the gun. I saw them slip away but couldn't do anything about it. Well its kinda hard when you're wearing a big ruc sac, not on your bike and about to hand over your race entry fee. In his wisdom the race organiser decided to start the race just after 7pm rather than the scheduled 7.15pm... mmm. So I got to start the race on lap two by which time we were all fighting for 7th position.

After lots of meet ups and breaks up I finally got together in a four man break (3rd group on the road) and we thru and off'd around for the last thirty minutes. I haven’t been in that many breakaways that have made it to the end of a race and tactically made a bit of a boo boo.

Paul Doel (Team Quest) was struggling on the last few laps and with hindsight we shoulda shoock him off which woulda made the sprint a lot easier. Anyway with 200 metres to go a Finchley RT guy attacks. I was slightly overgeared and was the last to respond but with 50 metres to go I was gaining on both him and the 2nd placed guy; but perhaps chosing the wrong line Mr Doel kindly guided me on to the grass:-( So I came last out of my breakaway mates. Grrr!!!. Next race I definitely need to make top 10.

Highbury-Wycombe-Highbury

A collection of thoughts that troubled my brain while blasting along the A40 on my commute to Buckinghamshire last Sunday

1. If I run over one of these baby rabbits that keeps darting across the road its gonna be really messy. And they'd better die instantly cause I hate that limb flapping stuff that happens. In fact there's no way I could put a furry little creature out of its misery.

2. If you were a cool hip teenager how would you explain to your mates in London that you live in a place called live in Stoke Poges

3. Onedin Line. WTF?(God Sunday night TV on BBC1 was bad in the 1970's)

4. What makes someone want to ride a 12 hour TT?

5. Why can't that 75 year old Nigerian lady, Mum, cook as well as she used to?

6. If you somehow keep catching yourself watching the same Pussy Cat Doll video is that a bit pervy?

7. Why do people seem to work together to bring back breakaways I'm in; but not the other way around?

8. Where are the Willesden CC boys?

9. Does Boris Johnson really like cyclists?

10. Shall I tell the parents of the client I saw today that the school they fought so hard to get their son into is widely thought of as RUBBISH

Average speed 20mph, total distance 77miles. Consumed - 1 kit kat, 2 bottles of lucozade sport, a chicken salad sandwich.

Up against the Yellow Jersey

8am this morning in a modern slightly bohemian looking flat in South West London it went down something like this...

Girlfriend: So what you cooking tonight then?
Me: Er... you mean tomorrow right?
GF: I thought you were cooking tonight
Me: Nah babes!
GF: Oh no, you're not racing are you? I thought you raced on Tuesday
Me: Nope it was rained off...(cheeky wink)
GF: Its gonna rain tonight though?
Me: Yeah only light showers, if that(cheeky smile!)
GF: (Shakes head)Can you take the re cycling stuff out when you leave please?
Me: Maybe (still smiling)
GF: Pretends to glare (shows me her tongue and her middle finger)

Ten hours later I'm on the Kitsmead Lane circuit in my car chewing the fat on all things cycling wise with Adam (TSN). The weather for tonight's E123 handicap looks seriously schizophrenic - alternating between sunny spring like patches and bleak rain. We both joked whether more than 10 people were gonna show up. For some reason I mentioned to Adam that I thought Sean Yates would show up...mmm.

Now you would've thought arriving 90 minutes before everyone else would mean I'd have more than enough time for the perfect warm up. Like I said you would have thought...I'm not sure where the best part of an hour went but my warm up only lasted 15 mins. In fact by the time I got to the line the 4ths had just pulled away.

A yellow and black head count revealed four Addiscombe CC riders (Stu, George, Keith and I) on duty. When they called the 3rd cat vets forward I recognised a familiar face with seriously impressive but equally familiar calves. 'Hey this should be fun I'm gonna be riding in the same group as a former TDF Yellow jersey wearer'. Yes indeedy the one an only Sean Yates. As is de-rigeur in these Surrey League handicaps the thru and off got going right from the gun. The task in hand - gobble up the 4ths and don't get caught by the by the big dawgs from the E12's

Yay! so here I am T&Oing with one of Britain's most famous ex cycling pro's great stuff. Mmm well not that great. Don't get me wrong, Sean's Da man an all that but I gotta be honest with you guys in terms of riding style I was expecting "souplesse" not this bow legged, robotic power stomping he presented.

So after a couple of steadish laps with Yates and Yates mainly at the helm (yeah the Christian one was there too) us 'Joe racer types' were coping well. The Yates bro's kept things just on the right side of 'intense' such that each pull ensured that you redlined only for a few brief seconds. By the 3rd lap of the three mile loop all the early shift workers had taken a back seat and only about six of us were pulling the train.

Now the light showers had briefly threaten and teased us for a while. But by the 4th lap of the three mile loop a more sinister darker heavier inclemency had arrived. Yes indeed, now it was properly raining. One moment my feet were toasty warm the next they were instantly cold and dripping wet.

The Yates Bro's had been good to us up to this point but by now their gentle toying digs were occurring at an increasing frequency. Then in a classic now you see us now you don't moment they'd suddenly got close to 60 metres on us. In the words of Huw Williams (Cycling weekly/ACC) the rest of us collectively pinned our ears back and reduced the gap back down to around 20 metres. HANDS UP WHO'S EVER EASED UP WHEN ON THE VERGE OF BRINGING BACK A BREAKAWAY!...

Have I mentioned the rain and the hailstones yet? Oh my bad, what about the thunder and the lighting? So someone at the front took a miscalculated breather and Sean and Christian unceremoniously fcuked off up the road. They probably had some urgent business to attend or something, after all we were now riding in flood type conditions. SSShit! why would anyone let alone blokes age 40+ decide to do this on a Thursday evening? I mean we could've had our feet up at home on the sofa watching football or making a nice meal for our partners;-)

So whad'ya think happen next then? Do you think we kept riding hard or slowed down and made a club run out of it. Neither really, we just rode tempo and tried to stay up right especially on the treacherous streamlike final turn up to the finish line. I vaguely remembered racing in wet cold conditions at Hillingdon some years back but that was a few wet splashes in comparison to this stuff.

By now it was absolutely belting it down and the hailstones were stinging. A few caught me in the eyelids and I shouted out in pain. A bloke behind me shouted back even louder either in pain of sympathy I don't know. It was quite funny for about three seconds. There were other problems too, it was becoming increasingly difficult to see under the tree lined road; it was really dark and the headlights of emerging trucks looked like weird space vehicles coming to land.

It was pointless sitting on wheels you just could not see through the spray of water in your face. On the bell lap the rain relented slightly and I decided to hit the bunch with my best anaerobic effort. It got me about forty metres and this Scottish guy who was really strong rode across to me. I recovered on his wheel and we then began taking turns. It probably lasted all of three minutes but in total it felt like twenty.

As you know attacks on the last lap of a race rarely stick and we were quickly back in the arms of the bunch. Cold, wet and miserable? Yeah, but whatever. I attacked again. Less of a gap this time bringing three guys with me. The plan was to get a gap and good position before the final turn. No such luck; and I negotiated the final turn like a shopping trolling with a dodgy front wheel. I was suddenly twenty feet behind everyone else. I caught up with the tail enders but that was it. I rolled in just outside the top ten and quickly handed back my race number, 37. Quite apt really cause despite a change of clothing I never stopped shivering for the nearly forty minutes. Race Winner, Christian Yates. Chapeau