I have gained team selection for Zellik-Galmaarden:
http://www.zellik-galmaarden.be/
This ranks as ‘Topcompetitie’ (the highest category of race in Belgium), 173.9 km featuring 17 climbs! With previous winners such as Tom Boonen and many other now pro riders, this is going to be an exceptionally tough race!
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Merchtem Kermesse
Perhaps contrary to the previous point, both Dom and I arrived slightly late to the start and found ourselves lining up right at the back of the field – a certain error of judgement. As soon as the race started the field singled out and being so far back was clearly not a promising situation. Unable to even see the front of the peloton, I was totally oblivious to the race.
In a perverse juxtaposition, I was caught in an unavoidable predicament: moving forward the only option, at the same time as being not an option at all. The speed at the front, as constant attacks went in cross winds, singled out the peloton relentlessly throughout each lap. Very gradually, I made my way up the field, managing to take only a few wheels at a time. It took an age to get to the front, and a lifetime to stay there. A good hour had passed before I felt happy with my position, but as the race eased off the pace slightly, we bunched up and riders taking sometimes unnecessary risks inevitably piled in front of me. For sure, I was going to be fighting for every position.
At a relatively comfortable pace, a large split formed just a few wheels in front of me as once fresh legs grew tired. This was the only indication I needed to see that the race was about to kick off again. Without hesitation, I drove hard to bridge the gap, and sat nearing the front of the group. The next few laps saw the pace upped significantly and sure enough, the entire peloton splintered. Working hard, I managed to stay near the front, chasing every dropped wheel. As the race settled back down, an earlier break group of about 15 had taken 30 seconds to my group of around 20 riders. The gap to the leaders sat around 30seconds as both groups pushed on. Feeling strong, I tried several times to bridge the gap, but finding few willing to come with me. Realising going alone was impossibility, I settled into the group, as a chase got organised.
Another good ride today I feel, and the legs are definitely coming on strong now. Clearly top 10’s need to be the focus for the time being, and to do so, I need to get into the front groups. Had I started the race further forward today then maybe I could have made it, but there’s always another race just around the corner.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Was that... Sven Nys?!?
It is not every day you can be riding along when a former world champion passes you coming the opposite way. As Linzi (my new Belgian sister) and I rode today for a pre-race loosen up, prior to us both racing tomorrow, we saw none other than Sven Nys!
To anyone who doesn’t realise, Sven Nys fills the gaping void between God (at the lower end) and Tom Boonen in this country in worshipping terms, and to share the road with a man of such calibre seemed almost surreal. Well it did to me anyway – Linzi appeared somewhat less excitable. I guess to ride with such legends of the sport is common practice over here, but it certainly woke me up to the reality of cycle racing in Belgium.
To anyone who doesn’t realise, Sven Nys fills the gaping void between God (at the lower end) and Tom Boonen in this country in worshipping terms, and to share the road with a man of such calibre seemed almost surreal. Well it did to me anyway – Linzi appeared somewhat less excitable. I guess to ride with such legends of the sport is common practice over here, but it certainly woke me up to the reality of cycle racing in Belgium.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Mur de Huy
Today I headed south into the rolling hills of the Walloon in search of the infamous ‘Mur de Huy’. This is - of course - the legendary centre-piece of “La Flèche Wallonne,” twice scaled before one final ascent to its formidable finish line. Departing at 11, with 3 pages of printed maps to avoid the mishaps of Fridays ride, I gently pedalled through narrow lanes, cobbled roads, and rural Belgian towns arriving in Huy some 3 hours later. Making my way through the busy high streets and packed roads, I eventually found the foot of the hill. Translated to English, “the wall of Huy” abruptly dawned as being overwhelmingly apt. Averaging 9.3% for 1.3km, featuring sections of 19% before peaking at 25%, it is easy to see why the climb has achieved its legendary status. Impressed by its magnitude, having only eased my way up, I turned back and after 5h 45 was home in Kumtich. I will certainly be back to the Mur soon for an all out attack on its daunting slopes.
Boutersem Kermesse - 12th
Having practiced the course the day before, I knew what to expect in advance of yesterdays race in Boutersem, just 5km from Kumtich. The roads were wide, with a few tight corners and generally well sheltered from the strong winds. Unlike the kermesses so far, the circuit featured 2 climbs, and a 3 kilometre straight descent down the main N road. The weather had also deteriorated as rain fell on Flanders resulting in painted white lines becoming precariously slippery. With 5 races for my age group taking place today, I was expecting a relatively small field of between 60-100 riders. However, the Belgians had different ideas and in similar style to Runklelen, 200 riders signed on for the 3.15 start.
Having started every race report in a similar fashion, it almost goes without saying that the race proceeded in its predictably fast manner. In a cross rider’s worst nightmare, I missed the pedal off the start line, and soon found myself nearing the back of the field. Immediately, I started moving up the peloton so as not to get caught in any splits. However, I was soon to realise the previous day’s reconnaissance had done little to cement my pre-race plan of trying to get away in a break group over the main climb. With the high-speed of a Belgian peloton, the rise appeared as nothing more than an inconvenience as we sped around the circuit.
After the opening couple of laps, the race settled down and seemed to enter an almost “vicious circle” phase. Many riders soon realised that no break group could succeed on such a circuit –the 3km dead straight decent being used every lap to swallow any move that went as speeds in the peloton reached up to 45 mph. As riders eased off the pace dropped, leaving other to take advantage by accelerating away, before swiftly being reeled back in! It became clear sitting midway through the field would ensure I could ride out the wave of intervals without ever chasing, but also keep an eye if any dangerous splits occurred.
With 3 laps to go, after what had been a relatively comfortable 2 hours, I moved towards the “business end” of the group as the race entered its closing stages. It was only now that the real race was on. As the pace picked up, we singled out for the first time and I sat in the top 15 riders in a perfectly timed move. Groups of 2 and 3 briefly gained a couple of seconds but sure enough were quickly reeled back in. Not fancying my chances in a 200 up bunch sprint, I had decided to try and get away 2 km to the line, after a left hand corner using the subsequent climb to accelerate. Everything was going well, and on the final lap I was in position to make the move. Approaching the corner, a gap opened and with 3 riders a couple of seconds in front decided that was time for the ‘now or never approach’, although a little earlier than planned. I quickly bridged over to them and, knowing of the impending chase, surged past in what can only be described as a ‘Cancellara’ inspired move. With 1 km to the finish I had, a 4 second advantage, and gave it everything I had. It was me vs the peloton. With just 600metres to go, however the junction was made and a 150 up gallop to the line was imminent. With nothing left, I somehow found the strength to jump into a gap, desperate to still get a result, and sprinted to a respectable position 12th. Although obviously happy with the result, I can’t help but feel if I hadn’t tried to go away, then maybe a top 10 position was possible, having felt very strong for the duration of the race.
It’s strange to think that only 2 weeks have passed since I arrived in Belgium for Brussel-Zepperen. But those 2 weeks have been transformational for my riding. I’m starting to feel the same rider I was as a first year junior, setting out for my first season of racing. The confidence and attacking style that saw me win national races, and took me to a stage win in Kontich is returning and, when coupled with the strength I have gained physically over the last 2 years, is an exciting prospect for me. I’m getting a good feeling about this season already.
Having started every race report in a similar fashion, it almost goes without saying that the race proceeded in its predictably fast manner. In a cross rider’s worst nightmare, I missed the pedal off the start line, and soon found myself nearing the back of the field. Immediately, I started moving up the peloton so as not to get caught in any splits. However, I was soon to realise the previous day’s reconnaissance had done little to cement my pre-race plan of trying to get away in a break group over the main climb. With the high-speed of a Belgian peloton, the rise appeared as nothing more than an inconvenience as we sped around the circuit.
After the opening couple of laps, the race settled down and seemed to enter an almost “vicious circle” phase. Many riders soon realised that no break group could succeed on such a circuit –the 3km dead straight decent being used every lap to swallow any move that went as speeds in the peloton reached up to 45 mph. As riders eased off the pace dropped, leaving other to take advantage by accelerating away, before swiftly being reeled back in! It became clear sitting midway through the field would ensure I could ride out the wave of intervals without ever chasing, but also keep an eye if any dangerous splits occurred.
With 3 laps to go, after what had been a relatively comfortable 2 hours, I moved towards the “business end” of the group as the race entered its closing stages. It was only now that the real race was on. As the pace picked up, we singled out for the first time and I sat in the top 15 riders in a perfectly timed move. Groups of 2 and 3 briefly gained a couple of seconds but sure enough were quickly reeled back in. Not fancying my chances in a 200 up bunch sprint, I had decided to try and get away 2 km to the line, after a left hand corner using the subsequent climb to accelerate. Everything was going well, and on the final lap I was in position to make the move. Approaching the corner, a gap opened and with 3 riders a couple of seconds in front decided that was time for the ‘now or never approach’, although a little earlier than planned. I quickly bridged over to them and, knowing of the impending chase, surged past in what can only be described as a ‘Cancellara’ inspired move. With 1 km to the finish I had, a 4 second advantage, and gave it everything I had. It was me vs the peloton. With just 600metres to go, however the junction was made and a 150 up gallop to the line was imminent. With nothing left, I somehow found the strength to jump into a gap, desperate to still get a result, and sprinted to a respectable position 12th. Although obviously happy with the result, I can’t help but feel if I hadn’t tried to go away, then maybe a top 10 position was possible, having felt very strong for the duration of the race.
It’s strange to think that only 2 weeks have passed since I arrived in Belgium for Brussel-Zepperen. But those 2 weeks have been transformational for my riding. I’m starting to feel the same rider I was as a first year junior, setting out for my first season of racing. The confidence and attacking style that saw me win national races, and took me to a stage win in Kontich is returning and, when coupled with the strength I have gained physically over the last 2 years, is an exciting prospect for me. I’m getting a good feeling about this season already.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
It was always going to happen...
The foreseeable hand of inevitability struck today – I got lost. Having survived nearly 2 weeks with only simple maps and a little common sense as a navigational tool, my knowledge of the local towns is gradually building and naturally I wish to expand this network, try new roads and explore the neighbouring regions.
I have taken wrong turnings, and not really known where I was, but up until now I had always managed to ride in the right direction so as to find my way. But today was different. Instead of ending up in small villages or dead end farm tracks, I rode into Leuven – a major city! With my quick map print out (taking the ‘how hard can it be approach’) cutting off south of the city, I had no choice but to try and find my way out! With the language barrier still very much intact, asking directions was never going to be easy – with the occasional cyclist pointing and offering uncertain directions. In due course, after a long-winded tour, I made it out of the city on the main N road, which is never enjoyable, as a non-stop flow of lorry’s streams past. Thankfully, I finally got back on route after a not so productive detour.
N.B. While riding on unfamiliar roads, an actual map of the area is probably a good idea.
I have taken wrong turnings, and not really known where I was, but up until now I had always managed to ride in the right direction so as to find my way. But today was different. Instead of ending up in small villages or dead end farm tracks, I rode into Leuven – a major city! With my quick map print out (taking the ‘how hard can it be approach’) cutting off south of the city, I had no choice but to try and find my way out! With the language barrier still very much intact, asking directions was never going to be easy – with the occasional cyclist pointing and offering uncertain directions. In due course, after a long-winded tour, I made it out of the city on the main N road, which is never enjoyable, as a non-stop flow of lorry’s streams past. Thankfully, I finally got back on route after a not so productive detour.
N.B. While riding on unfamiliar roads, an actual map of the area is probably a good idea.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
A fantastic day in the saddle.
Ostensibly, setting out for a 6 hour bike ride alone, with only a vague direction in mind, may seem to many to not be that ‘fantastic’ at all. However, to me this seemed the perfect opportunity to explore a new area of Belgium.
The local cycling network in this and neighbouring regions is superb. Designated and recommended cycling routes (the fietsroutesnetwerk) are marked with unique numbers at intersections, called knoopunts. It is a very simple but effective system which is extremely easy to follow. You check the map, choose where you want to go and follow the numbered signs to the next junction. The routes consist mainly of traffic free country lanes, some bike only paths, and all feature much of the beautiful Belgian landscape – ideal for long training rides.
All was going well – almost too well; the route had been scenic, the weather warm, and just a slight breeze blew across Limburg. Then I approached route 312. The entire road had been lifted for road works, leaving huge trenches, and piles of mud covering the pitted surface. Having searched for alternatives (with no map of the area), and finding only motorways, I headed back to retrace my proverbial footsteps. It was at this point though, I noticed another rider approaching the road works section, and seemingly wanting to go through it. I pulled over and we started talking. He had a map of the entire cycling network, which indeed informed us this was the only way through, leaving no choice but to dismount and carry on by foot, eventually making it through the mud, and back to the road, where luck has it that we were both heading in the same direction. As we rode, we shared many stories of past cycling experiences and chatted generally about life in Belgium. To be able to meet a complete stranger and be brought together to friendly conversation through cycling, as we seamlessly passed the many winding and scenic kilometres, was a great feeling. Hilaire, a Dutch dentist, was an incredibly friendly guy who clearly had only wanted to help me on my way, even offering to send a copy of the cycling network map! In due course we went our separate ways and with a manly handshake we parted, as Hilaire headed to Maastricht, whilst I turned to Kumtich. Arriving home, I clocked just short of 6 hours, on what had been a particularly rewarding ride.
The local cycling network in this and neighbouring regions is superb. Designated and recommended cycling routes (the fietsroutesnetwerk) are marked with unique numbers at intersections, called knoopunts. It is a very simple but effective system which is extremely easy to follow. You check the map, choose where you want to go and follow the numbered signs to the next junction. The routes consist mainly of traffic free country lanes, some bike only paths, and all feature much of the beautiful Belgian landscape – ideal for long training rides.
All was going well – almost too well; the route had been scenic, the weather warm, and just a slight breeze blew across Limburg. Then I approached route 312. The entire road had been lifted for road works, leaving huge trenches, and piles of mud covering the pitted surface. Having searched for alternatives (with no map of the area), and finding only motorways, I headed back to retrace my proverbial footsteps. It was at this point though, I noticed another rider approaching the road works section, and seemingly wanting to go through it. I pulled over and we started talking. He had a map of the entire cycling network, which indeed informed us this was the only way through, leaving no choice but to dismount and carry on by foot, eventually making it through the mud, and back to the road, where luck has it that we were both heading in the same direction. As we rode, we shared many stories of past cycling experiences and chatted generally about life in Belgium. To be able to meet a complete stranger and be brought together to friendly conversation through cycling, as we seamlessly passed the many winding and scenic kilometres, was a great feeling. Hilaire, a Dutch dentist, was an incredibly friendly guy who clearly had only wanted to help me on my way, even offering to send a copy of the cycling network map! In due course we went our separate ways and with a manly handshake we parted, as Hilaire headed to Maastricht, whilst I turned to Kumtich. Arriving home, I clocked just short of 6 hours, on what had been a particularly rewarding ride.
Monday, March 15, 2010
A note on embrocation
Embrocation refers to the application of liniment to ‘irritate’ the skin and promote blood flow to the muscles pre-competition. The benefits of embrocation are a ‘hot’ topic in the cycling world, and there is much debate over its physical performance enhancements. Nevertheless, I am still willing to gain the apparent psychological placebo effect, tanning ability and general aesthetic appearance associated with its usage! Perhaps contrary to purpose, past practice has shown it seems the heating effect reaches its peak level post exercise and true to form, the post race burn reared its ugly head after Sunday’s kermesse in Runkelen. This was no ordinary heat-wave however, and the heat-induced sting that ensued was particularly fierce. To put it lightly, ‘Sportsbalm hot’ is lethal. I think Alan Partridge captured the feeling brilliantly, when he infamously bit into a brambly apple pie exclaiming “it’s hotter than the sun”. It certainly was. After this episode, I can categorically say I’m sold on embrocation, if only the incredible heat it’s capable of producing could be more evident before and during races!
Runkelen kermesse
Yesterday (Sunday 14th March) I headed 20 minutes to the east of Kumtich for a kermesse in Runkelen, which last year saw nearly 300 riders take to the start line. We were to face a lengthened course of 7.2km, to be tackled 16 times for a sum total of 115km of racing. The roads were generally wide with several tight corners. In similar fashion to last year’s edition, 226 riders signed on for the race, starting at 14.30.
In a field of this size, positioning in the peloton is crucial and having lost out in the first lap on Wednesday in Adinkerke, I knew the importance of staying near the front. The usual first lap foray of mandatory attacks started as the peloton instantly singled out on the fast roads, as I was left fighting to hold my position near the front of the field. However, slowly but surely I gradually found myself losing ground, nearing the second half of the peloton only a few laps in. I knew I would have to work hard to stay in the race. With a small group of 5 riders forming a break, the pressure went on and through a hard cross wind section it quickly became evident I was too far back, seeing the field singled out seemingly stretching miles up the road. I knew I had to move forward, so as not to get caught in a split.
Gradually, I made my way up to around the top 20 riders as the early break group were reeled back into the quickly thinning peloton. The race was on. With multiple attacks, a group of 8 riders went clear, and quickly built up a good margin. Unfortunately this was to be the winning move, and my slight hesitation to try and join them had cost me! With the group out of sight the brief chase was called off. And the attacks called on as what remained of the peloton fought for the minor placings. Feeling stronger and stronger as the face went on, I decided to try my hand with several attempts to go clear of the rest in the few remaining laps, each time being reeled back in as a bunch sprint became inevitable. With one last futile attempt on the final lap, I sat back and prepared for the mass sprint to the line. As rain started to fall, the final off-camber corner was going to be where the sprint was won, and it quickly became apparent that being in the first few wheels would be vital. However, approaching the corner, many riders accelerated from the opposite side of the road and I was trapped on the inside. With a final kick, for the first time so far, I made it to the finish line in about 25th place (for the second time running not actually appearing on the results list!)
Hopefully this is a good sign of things to come, as I feel my form is improving all the time now. Finishing 25th of 226 is not bad going and has put a solid 115km of hard racing in my legs. No race this Wednesday, but another local kermesse is planned for Sunday.
Final thought
“If you’re not going forwards, you’re going backwards”, and this certainly rang true today. You are constantly fighting for every position, filling every gap on the road. Any hesitation will see 2 or 3 riders all vying for the same wheel in front of you. Any lapse in concentration and all of a sudden it seems half the field have shot up your inside leaving the hard task of making all that ground back up.
Bottom line: keep your mind on the race, feet on the pedals, and hands off the brakes.
In a field of this size, positioning in the peloton is crucial and having lost out in the first lap on Wednesday in Adinkerke, I knew the importance of staying near the front. The usual first lap foray of mandatory attacks started as the peloton instantly singled out on the fast roads, as I was left fighting to hold my position near the front of the field. However, slowly but surely I gradually found myself losing ground, nearing the second half of the peloton only a few laps in. I knew I would have to work hard to stay in the race. With a small group of 5 riders forming a break, the pressure went on and through a hard cross wind section it quickly became evident I was too far back, seeing the field singled out seemingly stretching miles up the road. I knew I had to move forward, so as not to get caught in a split.
Gradually, I made my way up to around the top 20 riders as the early break group were reeled back into the quickly thinning peloton. The race was on. With multiple attacks, a group of 8 riders went clear, and quickly built up a good margin. Unfortunately this was to be the winning move, and my slight hesitation to try and join them had cost me! With the group out of sight the brief chase was called off. And the attacks called on as what remained of the peloton fought for the minor placings. Feeling stronger and stronger as the face went on, I decided to try my hand with several attempts to go clear of the rest in the few remaining laps, each time being reeled back in as a bunch sprint became inevitable. With one last futile attempt on the final lap, I sat back and prepared for the mass sprint to the line. As rain started to fall, the final off-camber corner was going to be where the sprint was won, and it quickly became apparent that being in the first few wheels would be vital. However, approaching the corner, many riders accelerated from the opposite side of the road and I was trapped on the inside. With a final kick, for the first time so far, I made it to the finish line in about 25th place (for the second time running not actually appearing on the results list!)
Hopefully this is a good sign of things to come, as I feel my form is improving all the time now. Finishing 25th of 226 is not bad going and has put a solid 115km of hard racing in my legs. No race this Wednesday, but another local kermesse is planned for Sunday.
Final thought
“If you’re not going forwards, you’re going backwards”, and this certainly rang true today. You are constantly fighting for every position, filling every gap on the road. Any hesitation will see 2 or 3 riders all vying for the same wheel in front of you. Any lapse in concentration and all of a sudden it seems half the field have shot up your inside leaving the hard task of making all that ground back up.
Bottom line: keep your mind on the race, feet on the pedals, and hands off the brakes.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Brussel-Zepperen, Adinkerke and Anti-doping...
Brussel-Zepperen – Interclub
My first race was Brussel-Zepperen, and the so called echelon race certainly lived up to expectations as strong cross winds were the order of the day, such is the nature of a place to place style event. The race was to be held over 148 undulating kilometres, 2 cobble sections, with 4 - 6 kilometre punishing finishing circuits.
After a short neutralised section, the race took off in typical Belgian style, as rider after rider went on the attack. It was not long before the 200 strong peloton had shattered into many small groups across the road as the result of a crash which saw as many as 50 or so riders go down. Fortunately I was positioned towards the edge of the peloton, and managed to negotiate my way into the neighbouring field and back onto the road to join the chase for the lead group. I bridged over to the crash-imposed break away as part of a small group but the effort had taken its toll as I gradually slipped to the back as the pace heated up and was unshipped on a tough drag. Soon, I was to be rejoined by what remained of a chase group, which I remained part of for the duration of the race. After 80 or so kilometres, we were pulled out of the race at a time deficit of 5 minutes to the leaders, and that was race over, much to the disappointed of the 20 strong group. We made our way to the finish in Zepperen, where we were to learn that only 40 of the 200 starters had completed the set distance. In hindsight, targeting such a challenging race for my first road race since August was a little too ambitious, as I felt I lacked the race fitness, and general bunch racing skills needed for such an event.
Adinkerke – Kermesse
On Wednesday I travelled to Adinkerke with team mate Dom Schils, for my first Kermesse of the season. The race was to be fought over 18 laps of a 6.1 kilometre circuit. It was pan-flat and consisted of a wide tailwind finishing straight, a narrow cross wind section and a long, cross-headwind segment back to the finish. At 14.45 the race started with 68 riders signing on.
Again, the race went out hard, and I was poorly positioned near the back of the field. This lack of judgement was to prove fatal, as the top riders; including the Belgian national champion (not Tom Boonen for all you comedians out there) disappeared on lap 1 as the race hit the first narrow cross wind section. The race had split up instantly with 2 groups ahead and riders falling out the back of the race. I soon found my way to the front of the group, and as the chase got organised did my fair share of work on the front attempting to claw back the early leaders. However, it was not to be and the group soon lost interest. Feeling strong I attacked out the front of the group and made it over to 3 Belgian riders, promptly joined by Dom! Unfortunately the effort was in vain as we were slowly reeled back into the bunch. With the time gap growing, the group was given its final lap after just 50 kilometres of racing. The group instantly broke up in the cross winds as riders fought for every position. After 8 laps, I rolled in at 26th place, one place ahead of Dom, with a group of about 8 riders (some of whom had “gone the wrong way” on the penultimate lap and had gained a shortcut!) Just 8 or so riders completed the full 18 laps. I felt a lot stronger during this race than Sunday, which must be a good sign, and hopefully with a couple more race efforts in me, I can build up to some better results soon.
Anti-doping control
Having completed our race, both Dom and I were randomly selected for anti-doping control. I find it difficult to accept the true ‘randomness’ of the selection where 3 of the 5 summoned to the test are foreign riders. Despite my reservations, I entered the control van armed only with 2 litres of Flanders finest water, confident of securing what would surely be my best result to date. Having undergone 2 anti-doping tests in Britain, the process was a quick and simple affair – my only concern being the control officer’s willingness to shake my hand after the procedure! I guess I cannot complain at having these controls at relatively smaller races, which can only be a good sign for the sport, but I do question the apparently xenophobic attitude of the ‘random’ selection...
My first race was Brussel-Zepperen, and the so called echelon race certainly lived up to expectations as strong cross winds were the order of the day, such is the nature of a place to place style event. The race was to be held over 148 undulating kilometres, 2 cobble sections, with 4 - 6 kilometre punishing finishing circuits.
After a short neutralised section, the race took off in typical Belgian style, as rider after rider went on the attack. It was not long before the 200 strong peloton had shattered into many small groups across the road as the result of a crash which saw as many as 50 or so riders go down. Fortunately I was positioned towards the edge of the peloton, and managed to negotiate my way into the neighbouring field and back onto the road to join the chase for the lead group. I bridged over to the crash-imposed break away as part of a small group but the effort had taken its toll as I gradually slipped to the back as the pace heated up and was unshipped on a tough drag. Soon, I was to be rejoined by what remained of a chase group, which I remained part of for the duration of the race. After 80 or so kilometres, we were pulled out of the race at a time deficit of 5 minutes to the leaders, and that was race over, much to the disappointed of the 20 strong group. We made our way to the finish in Zepperen, where we were to learn that only 40 of the 200 starters had completed the set distance. In hindsight, targeting such a challenging race for my first road race since August was a little too ambitious, as I felt I lacked the race fitness, and general bunch racing skills needed for such an event.
Adinkerke – Kermesse
On Wednesday I travelled to Adinkerke with team mate Dom Schils, for my first Kermesse of the season. The race was to be fought over 18 laps of a 6.1 kilometre circuit. It was pan-flat and consisted of a wide tailwind finishing straight, a narrow cross wind section and a long, cross-headwind segment back to the finish. At 14.45 the race started with 68 riders signing on.
Again, the race went out hard, and I was poorly positioned near the back of the field. This lack of judgement was to prove fatal, as the top riders; including the Belgian national champion (not Tom Boonen for all you comedians out there) disappeared on lap 1 as the race hit the first narrow cross wind section. The race had split up instantly with 2 groups ahead and riders falling out the back of the race. I soon found my way to the front of the group, and as the chase got organised did my fair share of work on the front attempting to claw back the early leaders. However, it was not to be and the group soon lost interest. Feeling strong I attacked out the front of the group and made it over to 3 Belgian riders, promptly joined by Dom! Unfortunately the effort was in vain as we were slowly reeled back into the bunch. With the time gap growing, the group was given its final lap after just 50 kilometres of racing. The group instantly broke up in the cross winds as riders fought for every position. After 8 laps, I rolled in at 26th place, one place ahead of Dom, with a group of about 8 riders (some of whom had “gone the wrong way” on the penultimate lap and had gained a shortcut!) Just 8 or so riders completed the full 18 laps. I felt a lot stronger during this race than Sunday, which must be a good sign, and hopefully with a couple more race efforts in me, I can build up to some better results soon.
Anti-doping control
Having completed our race, both Dom and I were randomly selected for anti-doping control. I find it difficult to accept the true ‘randomness’ of the selection where 3 of the 5 summoned to the test are foreign riders. Despite my reservations, I entered the control van armed only with 2 litres of Flanders finest water, confident of securing what would surely be my best result to date. Having undergone 2 anti-doping tests in Britain, the process was a quick and simple affair – my only concern being the control officer’s willingness to shake my hand after the procedure! I guess I cannot complain at having these controls at relatively smaller races, which can only be a good sign for the sport, but I do question the apparently xenophobic attitude of the ‘random’ selection...
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
The Language Barrier
There a few who would move to a foreign country without learning any of the basic words or phrases needed for communication in everyday life. There are fewer who would make this move knowing months in advance that the family they would be staying with speak little or no English, and whose mother tongue is Flemish, an apparently less ‘squeaky’ version of Dutch. Yet unfortunately, the small minority to which I belong would even come with no dictionary. And no idea.
I communicate in the form of limited miming skills, honed in school drama lessons, which allows me to construct the most simplistic of conversations. Unsurprisingly, most resulting with optimistic pointing at similar meaning objects in the vague promise of some sort of understanding. Needless to say, Google translate has seen huge increases in its user rate recently.
However, I am determined to learn at least some of the language over the next few months, and the family I’m staying with often get me to repeat Belgian words, more often than not resulting in outbursts of laughter at my dire attempts of a Flemish accent. My most noteworthy endeavour however, has been using facebook in Dutch which, at best, has been less than successful, although I can now “fan worden” (become a fan – for all you non-Flemish speakers out there) of seemingly anything.
I use the term ‘language barrier’ very lightly. It’s more of a solid brick wall, impassable to all but the fiercest of linguists. Certainly no level of cycling pedigree can help me with this one...
I communicate in the form of limited miming skills, honed in school drama lessons, which allows me to construct the most simplistic of conversations. Unsurprisingly, most resulting with optimistic pointing at similar meaning objects in the vague promise of some sort of understanding. Needless to say, Google translate has seen huge increases in its user rate recently.
However, I am determined to learn at least some of the language over the next few months, and the family I’m staying with often get me to repeat Belgian words, more often than not resulting in outbursts of laughter at my dire attempts of a Flemish accent. My most noteworthy endeavour however, has been using facebook in Dutch which, at best, has been less than successful, although I can now “fan worden” (become a fan – for all you non-Flemish speakers out there) of seemingly anything.
I use the term ‘language barrier’ very lightly. It’s more of a solid brick wall, impassable to all but the fiercest of linguists. Certainly no level of cycling pedigree can help me with this one...
Tuesday, March 09, 2010
East Anglain Daily Times Feature
www.eadt.co.uk/content/eadt/sport/cycling/story.aspx?brand=EADOnline&category=CyclingFeatures&tBrand=EADOnline&tCategory=xDefault&itemid=IPED09%20Mar%202010%2011%3A44%3A31%3A527
Monday, March 08, 2010
First Blog
Hello Everyone,
Well, this is my first ‘blog’ so we’ll see how it goes...
The phrase ‘a new dawn, a new day’ is often used to symbolize how the passing of one day into another can allow for the turning of a new leaf and to start a fresh. This, in its metaphorical, but also quite literal sense (having woken at 4 am to catch the ferry this morning) seems to be what is unfolding in front of me right now, as today marks a new era in my life. At 18, i have taken the decision to move to Belgium, in an attempt to persue my dream of becoming a professional cyclist.
However, I am under no illusions about what lays ahead of me, and the ultimate dream of becoming professional is just that at the moment – a dream. There lies years of hard work, suffering, pain, and obviously a little luck along the way, before this can truly become a realistic goal, but now i’m here and i feel that i am ready to give this my best shot!
With the much needed assistance of Patrick Schils, I was able to join WielerTeam Van Eyck Sport Wambeek, for the 2010 season alongside fellow rider Dom Schils and several other Belgian riders. My first race will be an interclub on this Sunday (7th of March), the “Brussels-Zepperen“. With a large, high quality field of 200 riders, this is a tough first race, but I hope to show some of the early season form I hope to have built through the winter . My next race will be a kermesse in Adinkerke on Wednesday, with a lot more Kermesse style racing to come over the remainder of the month.
This season i will be racing on a fantastic Cannondale Super 6 Ultegra, part-sponsered by Chelmer Cycles and 'Sport Essex'. The bike has been upgraded from stock with new Zipp 404 wheels, as well as Easton EA 70 bars and gore ride-on cables. With such a quality bike, and coupled with the professional (sometime pedantic) build that Chelmer Cycles are known for, the result is a faultless all out race machine which is ready for anything the rough Belgian terrain can throw at it!
It is true to say that without the generous support of the dave rayner fund I would not be racing in Belgium this year. The supprt and financial backing the fund offers has been a fundamental in my decision to race abroad, and is the driving force behind me for my time in Belgium.
Well I guess thats about all for now, until next time...
Well, this is my first ‘blog’ so we’ll see how it goes...
The phrase ‘a new dawn, a new day’ is often used to symbolize how the passing of one day into another can allow for the turning of a new leaf and to start a fresh. This, in its metaphorical, but also quite literal sense (having woken at 4 am to catch the ferry this morning) seems to be what is unfolding in front of me right now, as today marks a new era in my life. At 18, i have taken the decision to move to Belgium, in an attempt to persue my dream of becoming a professional cyclist.
However, I am under no illusions about what lays ahead of me, and the ultimate dream of becoming professional is just that at the moment – a dream. There lies years of hard work, suffering, pain, and obviously a little luck along the way, before this can truly become a realistic goal, but now i’m here and i feel that i am ready to give this my best shot!
With the much needed assistance of Patrick Schils, I was able to join WielerTeam Van Eyck Sport Wambeek, for the 2010 season alongside fellow rider Dom Schils and several other Belgian riders. My first race will be an interclub on this Sunday (7th of March), the “Brussels-Zepperen“. With a large, high quality field of 200 riders, this is a tough first race, but I hope to show some of the early season form I hope to have built through the winter . My next race will be a kermesse in Adinkerke on Wednesday, with a lot more Kermesse style racing to come over the remainder of the month.
This season i will be racing on a fantastic Cannondale Super 6 Ultegra, part-sponsered by Chelmer Cycles and 'Sport Essex'. The bike has been upgraded from stock with new Zipp 404 wheels, as well as Easton EA 70 bars and gore ride-on cables. With such a quality bike, and coupled with the professional (sometime pedantic) build that Chelmer Cycles are known for, the result is a faultless all out race machine which is ready for anything the rough Belgian terrain can throw at it!
It is true to say that without the generous support of the dave rayner fund I would not be racing in Belgium this year. The supprt and financial backing the fund offers has been a fundamental in my decision to race abroad, and is the driving force behind me for my time in Belgium.
Well I guess thats about all for now, until next time...
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