Victorian Pursuit Championships
Sunday 20 December, 2009
I know I haven't really been training for this, but can I please just have a good ride! Thanks!
It kind of worked! It wasn't the fastest ride of the day, and it was pretty much the same as what I rode in Sydney a couple of weeks ago, in fact, so similar that the times were about the same as last time. And, yet again I rode a faster final than I did qualifier, so I can't really complain! Unfortunately, it wasn't faster than before.
On the upside, there was a visit to the podium, and that is always good :) Another IP bronze. (I don't have a good photo of that :( ) And it was nice to do that in front of my mum, my brother, his fiancee and my 2 nieces! Congratulations to Helen Kelly who rode a stellar race, and to Miranda Laidlaw who surprised herself with how fast she could go for the silver.
More importantly, I have identified some things to focus on to make me a better pursuit rider. Small technical things that I think can be improved rapidly to make my pursuit better. I experimented with a couple of things for this race and they seemed to work quite favourably, although they will need a bit of refinement, although I am pretty happy with the initial response. This is the type of challenge I like (damn that inner scientist!!), but it will have to wait until after January 6 to become a priority!
I hope you all had a good weekend. I have 2 more days in Victoria, a trip to see my mum and dad today (Monday) and some training over the Nationals TT course on Tuesday before heading home, and back to the office on Wednesday.
Dec 21, 2009
You are what you train for
Victorian Points Race Championship
Saturday 19 December 2009
And the points race has certainly not been the focus this summer.
Don't get me wrong, I love a good points race, but at the moment a sprint for me involves winding it up from 2.5 laps out, which multiplied by the number of sprints in the race is just not a formula for success.
Today's race was tough. There was no chance of taking a lap as Rosy McCall, Nicole Whitburn and myself knew that if one went the others would too. The two young girls, Miranda Laidlaw and Laine Hammond, were content to battle over the sprint laps. Consequently the sprint laps were pretty tightly contested.
It seemed that most of us preferred a long wind up, which suited me, and most of the sprints were very tight across the line. Unfortunately for me, I let myself fall into the getting boxed position after winning one of the sprints which saw me squeezed out of points a couple of times.
In the end, I was fifth. Nicole took a well deserved win, Rosy was second and on a countback Laine was third (her and Miranda were equal on points).
I am a little frustrated by this outcome, there are a few too many, "if I had just done this..." thoughts after this race, but the reality is that I can't be disappointed, this was about time on boards and a bit of variety coming into Nationals Season!
Just remember, you are what you train for!
Saturday 19 December 2009
And the points race has certainly not been the focus this summer.
Don't get me wrong, I love a good points race, but at the moment a sprint for me involves winding it up from 2.5 laps out, which multiplied by the number of sprints in the race is just not a formula for success.
Today's race was tough. There was no chance of taking a lap as Rosy McCall, Nicole Whitburn and myself knew that if one went the others would too. The two young girls, Miranda Laidlaw and Laine Hammond, were content to battle over the sprint laps. Consequently the sprint laps were pretty tightly contested.
It seemed that most of us preferred a long wind up, which suited me, and most of the sprints were very tight across the line. Unfortunately for me, I let myself fall into the getting boxed position after winning one of the sprints which saw me squeezed out of points a couple of times.
In the end, I was fifth. Nicole took a well deserved win, Rosy was second and on a countback Laine was third (her and Miranda were equal on points).
I am a little frustrated by this outcome, there are a few too many, "if I had just done this..." thoughts after this race, but the reality is that I can't be disappointed, this was about time on boards and a bit of variety coming into Nationals Season!
Just remember, you are what you train for!
Dec 18, 2009
Summer Reading!
Thanks for coming back! I am finally up to date! I have dumped a whole lot of words, but I am lacking photos. I will try and find some to brighten up these posts soon!
In the meantime, enjoy! There should be more to come in the not too distant future!
Thanks for reading :)
In the meantime, enjoy! There should be more to come in the not too distant future!
Thanks for reading :)
Dec 16, 2009
Flat out and then some more.
Victorian Scratch Race and Austral Carnival
After a cancelled flight and a shuffle from Virgin Blue to QANTAS, I eventually got to
The Victorian Scratch Race was the first race on the program. I decided to go with a 94 as it was super hot and the track was fast. As far as scratch races go, it was pretty uneventful. Liz Geogouras attacked a few times, which I went with, but the bunch didn’t want to let us go. Towards the end of the race I attacked with Liz on my wheel, maybe a bit too late for it to stick and a bit too early for the sprint, but again the bunch didn’t want to let that go either. So it came down to a bunch sprint, and that meant the sprinters got up- Fatehah Mustapa (
After that was a bit of carnival racing. A 15 lap handicap points race, I ended up 2nd to Nicole. A 6 lap wheelrace- 6th I think. Keirin heats- 2nd to Fatehah and then the Keirin finals which I didn’t read properly and sat up with about half a lap to go. All of this was crammed into 3 and a-bit hours (including the scratch race). It was a whole lot of fun, but it was a pretty tiring day in the end. There was also a bit of a rush to get events finished which meant the keirin went from 6 to 4 laps, we had to get out of the track for Revolution to get set up!
Dec 13, 2009
VCC Time Trial Series Race #2
The month passed very quickly, and it was time to face this course again. The start time was an hour earlier than last time to beat the heat. A bit tough for a Sunday, but then again cyclists love early starts, right?!
Another perfect day for TT (despite the earliness), it was still and sunny. Somehow I did end up running late however and had an abbreviated warm up. I am starting to think that a shorter warm up might work better for me actually.
Today was one of those days when I just felt great on the bike. I found my rhythm on the hills quickly and held good power and speed all the way. My only complaint, just one, was the car that was going through the finish line as I was rapidly approaching. There was another competitor in front of him so it wasn’t as if he could have gone anywhere, so I can’t really complain, just meant that I had to slow down before the finish line.
This time around I was 1 min 10 sec faster than last time! And you know what, I reckon I can go still go faster (fingers crossed!!)
Another perfect day for TT (despite the earliness), it was still and sunny. Somehow I did end up running late however and had an abbreviated warm up. I am starting to think that a shorter warm up might work better for me actually.
Today was one of those days when I just felt great on the bike. I found my rhythm on the hills quickly and held good power and speed all the way. My only complaint, just one, was the car that was going through the finish line as I was rapidly approaching. There was another competitor in front of him so it wasn’t as if he could have gone anywhere, so I can’t really complain, just meant that I had to slow down before the finish line.
This time around I was 1 min 10 sec faster than last time! And you know what, I reckon I can go still go faster (fingers crossed!!)
Dec 6, 2009
Another bike race, another lesson.
NSW Points Race and Omnium Titles
Again, it was back down the highway, and again it was familiar faces on the start line- Ash, Liz and Megan. To boost numbers in the points race, we had the under 19s in with us as well, and whilst it is good to have the numbers, it is difficult to know where you actually in the sprint at times.
The points race itself was pretty fast and pretty tough. It was hot in
The final wash up: Gold- Megan; Silver- Ash; Bronze- Liz; 4th- me.
Sunday was the omnium. Again, not something that I have done a lot of work for and as I realize now, possibly something that I am not really that well suited to. Flying 200 was up first, and whilst it was my fastest ever flying 200 (I have only done 3!), it was not that competitive and I was in 5th. The scratch race was possibly one of my poorest ever. Note to self- the way to win a race is to ride it how you want it raced rather than letting the bunch, in particular the sprinters, get their way!
The 2000m IP was a bit of a revenge race for me. I caught the sprinter that I was chasing and I posted a PB for this distance so I was happy. The points race eventually got under way after a lunch break (!) and qualifying rounds of the team sprint!! Much like the scratch race I wasn’t on the ball and rode a disappointing race. The 500m TT came around after another major break which included at U17 madison and more team sprints! This is possibly my worst track event and I wasn’t going to make up any ground now.
All in all a disappointing day, but I only have myself to blame. On the upside, my IP was good and I know what went wrong today and can go away and fix it!
Thanks for reading!
Nov 29, 2009
The love/hate relationship continues…
NSW Pursuit Titles
I think I said last year that I wasn’t going to pursue this event further, but, I changed my mind! Although the focus has changed and we have taken some of the pressure off by not having this as my main event.
After a last minute moto-session on BundaDome the car was packed and we headed up the highway on Saturday afternoon. The start list was a little ominous with Kate Bates, Ashlee Akudinoff, Lis Georgouras and Megan Dunn all listed. My goal for the weekend was firstly to ride a PB and hopefully qualify for the final.
For the heat I was up against Ash, that was daunting at all, no, I had just watched her in the TP at the World Cup, can’t be that fast surely!! So along with a PB, I wanted to avoid getting caught!! Alas I wasn’t good enough for the second aim, but I did hold out until the final km! But I did PB and qualified for the final.
I was up against Megan in the final. Hmm, tough day with world medalists everywhere! Again, my aim was simple, to go faster than my qualifier. In the end Megan was over the line about 4 seconds faster than me, and I did go faster than my qualifier. And whilst I couldn’t quite get to my schedule time, it was a PB, so no complaints.
Results:
Gold: Ash Ankudinoff
Silver: Kate Bates
Bronze: Megan Dunn
It has taken a long time for me to make any major improvements in this event, and this season has started well, so I am happy. (Yeah, I know it is not a super-fantastic time, but you get out there and do one and tell me how you go :p)
I think I said last year that I wasn’t going to pursue this event further, but, I changed my mind! Although the focus has changed and we have taken some of the pressure off by not having this as my main event.
After a last minute moto-session on BundaDome the car was packed and we headed up the highway on Saturday afternoon. The start list was a little ominous with Kate Bates, Ashlee Akudinoff, Lis Georgouras and Megan Dunn all listed. My goal for the weekend was firstly to ride a PB and hopefully qualify for the final.
For the heat I was up against Ash, that was daunting at all, no, I had just watched her in the TP at the World Cup, can’t be that fast surely!! So along with a PB, I wanted to avoid getting caught!! Alas I wasn’t good enough for the second aim, but I did hold out until the final km! But I did PB and qualified for the final.
I was up against Megan in the final. Hmm, tough day with world medalists everywhere! Again, my aim was simple, to go faster than my qualifier. In the end Megan was over the line about 4 seconds faster than me, and I did go faster than my qualifier. And whilst I couldn’t quite get to my schedule time, it was a PB, so no complaints.
Results:
Gold: Ash Ankudinoff
Silver: Kate Bates
Bronze: Megan Dunn
It has taken a long time for me to make any major improvements in this event, and this season has started well, so I am happy. (Yeah, I know it is not a super-fantastic time, but you get out there and do one and tell me how you go :p)
Nov 20, 2009
UCI Track World Cup
Hisense Arena,
For a change of pace, I headed to
The atmosphere in Hisense was awesome and the racing was fantastic. The Australians were dominant over the three days and it was with immense pride and excitement that I enjoyed their performances. As an added bonus I went home with a completely re-newed motivation and love for my bike and training!
(You can read all about the World Cup here.)
Nov 15, 2009
VCC Time Trial Series Race #1
It used to be that over summer the VCC would run a time trial every second Monday. The course was 12km, out and back from the entrance to SFP on
I wasn’t sure how well I would perform over this course, but I was going to have a good go at it! Unlike days earlier in the week, there was no wind to speak of, such a nice change for
On the whole I am pretty happy with 99% of this race. I managed to find some good rhythm and speed for most of the race, although I did find myself a touch over-geared towards the top of the 3rd sister just before the KOM mark. I also let myself get distracted by the car that decided he didn’t want to wait for me to go past the T-intersection, but then forgot to accelerate when he turned onto the road! So whilst I did have some awesome speed (approaching 70km/hr coming down the 2nd sister) I had to wash a whole lot off to avoid running into the back of said car on the uphill before the turn. As a result of all of this I missed the turn cone by about 2m- total beginner error there!
In the end, I was second to Alex (Carle) by 3 seconds, in a time of 34:45, which I was pretty satisfied with. It is a nice bench mark. Now, to go faster next time!
Nov 10, 2009
The Golden Wheel
Wagga Wagga CC Golden Wheel Track Carnival
7th & 8th November
Hot Hot Hot
About this time last year I told you about the Wagga Golden Wheel Carnival. It is one of my favourite track races. It is a well organised carnival, it is a great atmosphere, usually the entries are good and there is always a whole lot of prizemoney (always a bonus!). This year was almost true to form, although numbers were down a bit which was disappointing. But, it was still a whole lot of fun nonetheless!
Early in the week it was touch and go whether I was going to be right to race, having had a throat infection, which the doctor later told me was viral tracheitis (just a fancy word for throat infection). Nothing to be done but rest :( After spending several days off the bike (and off work) I was feeling 100% come Friday. Then Saturday morning I woke up covered in a rash- including my eyelids- and itching like you wouldn't believe! Unsure what this was, it was off the Dr again to make sure it a)wasn't contagious and b)wasn't serious. All clear for both of those, it was just hives! Having never had hives before I have no idea what caused them, so if you have any idea, I would love to know (it was not my shampoo, glass of wine or washing powder!).
So, dramas out of the way it was off to Wagga.
Turned out I ended up with a big program with a total of 12 races across the two half days!
And I am pleased to say there were podiums all round!
This was my most successful trip to the Golden Wheel ever!
Whilst I wasn't even close to the podium for the blue ribband event,
I did make the final and put up a fight before
Paul Fellows got to me and got to the line first!
Other notable results from the weekend were 2nd in the Women's Wheelrace (Saturday), 1st scratch race (Saturday), 2nd scratch race (Sunday- I was well marked by then!!) and 5th in the Rules Club Wheelrace (Sunday). It was one of those rare occasions as a bike rider that I actually won enough to cover the cost of entry, accommodation and travel!
Thanks to my mum and Matt's parents for coming to watch, it is always nice to have personal spectators!
Thanks to Wagga CC for an awesome event- see you again next year!
Well done to all the ladies who participated in the Tour de Femme, I was pleased to hear it was crash free! Congrats to Kirsty Broun, Jessie Maclean and Chloe Hosking on being on top of the podium!
You can see more photos from Wagga here
7th & 8th November
Hot Hot Hot
About this time last year I told you about the Wagga Golden Wheel Carnival. It is one of my favourite track races. It is a well organised carnival, it is a great atmosphere, usually the entries are good and there is always a whole lot of prizemoney (always a bonus!). This year was almost true to form, although numbers were down a bit which was disappointing. But, it was still a whole lot of fun nonetheless!
Early in the week it was touch and go whether I was going to be right to race, having had a throat infection, which the doctor later told me was viral tracheitis (just a fancy word for throat infection). Nothing to be done but rest :( After spending several days off the bike (and off work) I was feeling 100% come Friday. Then Saturday morning I woke up covered in a rash- including my eyelids- and itching like you wouldn't believe! Unsure what this was, it was off the Dr again to make sure it a)wasn't contagious and b)wasn't serious. All clear for both of those, it was just hives! Having never had hives before I have no idea what caused them, so if you have any idea, I would love to know (it was not my shampoo, glass of wine or washing powder!).
So, dramas out of the way it was off to Wagga.
Turned out I ended up with a big program with a total of 12 races across the two half days!
And I am pleased to say there were podiums all round!
This was my most successful trip to the Golden Wheel ever!
Whilst I wasn't even close to the podium for the blue ribband event,
I did make the final and put up a fight before
Paul Fellows got to me and got to the line first!
Women's wheelrace podium:
myself, Rebecca Dunn & Emily Williams
myself, Rebecca Dunn & Emily Williams
Rules Club Wheelrace Podium (5th)
Thanks to my mum and Matt's parents for coming to watch, it is always nice to have personal spectators!
Thanks to Wagga CC for an awesome event- see you again next year!
Well done to all the ladies who participated in the Tour de Femme, I was pleased to hear it was crash free! Congrats to Kirsty Broun, Jessie Maclean and Chloe Hosking on being on top of the podium!
You can see more photos from Wagga here
Nov 2, 2009
What a feeling...
I submitted my PhD thesis on Friday!
Now the waiting for comments begins.
Now the waiting for comments begins.
Flowers from my parents; the completed document; pen from ANU for submitting!
Oct 29, 2009
Please, sir, can I race?
It is the second Vikings CC Ladies Night, and I really really want to race the crit tonight. But it is not to be, it seems I have some tonsilitis/throat infection- BOO!
Soft foods only, not really ideal for a cyclist.
The warning signs might have been there 2 days ago when a) my resting HR was way up and b) my power outputs were way down, but, you know, I just want to ride my bike!!!
I reckon I'll be better soon though :)
Soft foods only, not really ideal for a cyclist.
I reckon I'll be better soon though :)
Oct 20, 2009
It is only a bad race if you don't learn from what you did wrong
Honda Hybrid Women's Tour
Angelsea/Geelong/Melbourne
15th-17th October
NTID were putting in two teams for this. The NTID team of myself, Bron Ryan, Carly Light, Sarah Roy, Alex Carle and Laura Luxford- a pretty strong team really. The other team was NTID/SASI/QAS with Lisa Jacobs, Zoe Appel, Ange McClure, Louise Kerr, Bec Werner and Carlee Taylor- another really strong team.
Somewhere along the way I left my racing head behind. Perhaps it started with the crazy Geelong driver who tried to take out our bunch pre-race?
In case you can't tell, this is chocolate pudding
Thursday- RR at Angelsea, a ridiculously early start for a 55km bike race.
The course looked like it would suit me well- largely flat with a single moderate rise at the start. We had a neutral 1 km to fit out for position which was followed by a narrow squeeze past a roundabout. This squeeze proved too challenging for some of the ~80 girls and of course there was a crash. I was caught behind this crash. Quick as I could I scrambled over the traffic island and set about chasing the bunch. And that pretty much was the story of the race- I chased and chased and never quite got there. In the end I resigned myself to having a good day in the TT and played it safe through the technical finish in the rain.
Friday- TT Geelong Esplanade and Botanic Gardens, 10.3km.
I liked this course too- a little bit technical, a power climb and flat (with the risk of cross winds off the bay). And after the failure of the day before I was gee'd for a super TT.
Everything was going to plan, the first 4.5km I was time and had good power and then it went downhill. The few spots of rain that I had felt as I rolled out of the start ramp turned into a torrential downpour! Coming in the technical descent from the Botanic Gardens down to the Esplanade, I had no visibility through the rain! Knowing there was a sharp right hander followed quickly by a left at the bottom of the hill I had to start braking early- about half way down the hill! I lost a bit of time there, but figured it was better than dropping myself. And the rain kept getting heavier! Along the Esplanade and the visibility decreased further, though it wasn't helped by the sweat and sunscreen running into my eyes either :S. I am pretty sure the water was as deep as my Token rims- gotta love riding in a river! All in all, despite this, I managed to catch 1.9 girls in front of me (I say 0.9 as I couldn't get passed her in the finish straight!!) and I held my bike up! My time was 1min 23 down off Vicki (stage and overall tour winner), so I can't be too disappointed.
Saturday- Crit, Lygon St, Carlton.
Note to self- neutral actually means get your elbows out and start racing.
I was keen to help the team out today, we had a plan to keep Carly in 3rd on GC and Bron in 4th and to retain our second place on the team classification. But, in true fashion for this tour, things just didn't go to plan. I was complacent in the neutral lap, got caught out, chased and chased, but got nowhere. It was an unforgiving hot dog + a short arm course and if you were in a bad position at any of the 3 u-bolts, you were in trouble and that was pretty much what happened here. I ended up DNFing and feeling pretty demoralised about my performance. But, moving on, I know what went wrong and am pretty sure it is not going to happen again!
On the up side, Carly did get 3rd, Bron was 4th and we held on to our 2nd team classification.
Thanks for reading :)
For some other perspectives of this tour check out:
Lisa Jacobs
Ange McClure
Vicki Whitelaw
Davina Summers
Angelsea/Geelong/Melbourne
15th-17th October
NTID were putting in two teams for this. The NTID team of myself, Bron Ryan, Carly Light, Sarah Roy, Alex Carle and Laura Luxford- a pretty strong team really. The other team was NTID/SASI/QAS with Lisa Jacobs, Zoe Appel, Ange McClure, Louise Kerr, Bec Werner and Carlee Taylor- another really strong team.
Somewhere along the way I left my racing head behind. Perhaps it started with the crazy Geelong driver who tried to take out our bunch pre-race?
In case you can't tell, this is chocolate pudding
The course looked like it would suit me well- largely flat with a single moderate rise at the start. We had a neutral 1 km to fit out for position which was followed by a narrow squeeze past a roundabout. This squeeze proved too challenging for some of the ~80 girls and of course there was a crash. I was caught behind this crash. Quick as I could I scrambled over the traffic island and set about chasing the bunch. And that pretty much was the story of the race- I chased and chased and never quite got there. In the end I resigned myself to having a good day in the TT and played it safe through the technical finish in the rain.
Friday- TT Geelong Esplanade and Botanic Gardens, 10.3km.
I liked this course too- a little bit technical, a power climb and flat (with the risk of cross winds off the bay). And after the failure of the day before I was gee'd for a super TT.
Everything was going to plan, the first 4.5km I was time and had good power and then it went downhill. The few spots of rain that I had felt as I rolled out of the start ramp turned into a torrential downpour! Coming in the technical descent from the Botanic Gardens down to the Esplanade, I had no visibility through the rain! Knowing there was a sharp right hander followed quickly by a left at the bottom of the hill I had to start braking early- about half way down the hill! I lost a bit of time there, but figured it was better than dropping myself. And the rain kept getting heavier! Along the Esplanade and the visibility decreased further, though it wasn't helped by the sweat and sunscreen running into my eyes either :S. I am pretty sure the water was as deep as my Token rims- gotta love riding in a river! All in all, despite this, I managed to catch 1.9 girls in front of me (I say 0.9 as I couldn't get passed her in the finish straight!!) and I held my bike up! My time was 1min 23 down off Vicki (stage and overall tour winner), so I can't be too disappointed.
Saturday- Crit, Lygon St, Carlton.
Note to self- neutral actually means get your elbows out and start racing.
I was keen to help the team out today, we had a plan to keep Carly in 3rd on GC and Bron in 4th and to retain our second place on the team classification. But, in true fashion for this tour, things just didn't go to plan. I was complacent in the neutral lap, got caught out, chased and chased, but got nowhere. It was an unforgiving hot dog + a short arm course and if you were in a bad position at any of the 3 u-bolts, you were in trouble and that was pretty much what happened here. I ended up DNFing and feeling pretty demoralised about my performance. But, moving on, I know what went wrong and am pretty sure it is not going to happen again!
Thanks for reading :)
For some other perspectives of this tour check out:
Lisa Jacobs
Ange McClure
Vicki Whitelaw
Davina Summers
Oct 4, 2009
The sky is crying
There is a cute cartoon to goes with the title of this post at: Pon and Zi.
I know that we are in a drought and all the rest of it, but can the sky please get over it and start behaving in a proper spring like manner!
I am tired of feeling and looking like the Michelin man when I am on the bike. I am also tired of my bike looking like this, and then it being too cold to actually wash it properly!!
I am also tired of digging a trench for the storm water after I have been out riding (in Michelin costume). Please, stop raining already!
The trench is currently about 3m long. Every pipe we pulled out was full of this much root mass!
(The plumber comes next week to sort it all out- stupid drought making the plants forage for water like this!!)
I know that we are in a drought and all the rest of it, but can the sky please get over it and start behaving in a proper spring like manner!
I am tired of feeling and looking like the Michelin man when I am on the bike. I am also tired of my bike looking like this, and then it being too cold to actually wash it properly!!
I am also tired of digging a trench for the storm water after I have been out riding (in Michelin costume). Please, stop raining already!
(The plumber comes next week to sort it all out- stupid drought making the plants forage for water like this!!)
Sep 15, 2009
Hey, where have you been?
Ah, training break that is where I have been. And how sweet it was- no early starts to make the bunch, a chance to smack out some mountain bike kms, a bit of Friday night track racing and general relaxing. But, I tell you what, I am so totally gee'd for what is planned and getting back into it. (Ask me about that in a few weeks ;) )
Rather than bore you with details of what I got up to on my break, here are some photos and you can "choose your own adventure"!
A bit of Race All Winter (RAW) at DGV. (Photo from Action Snaps)
Bec Henderson on her way to 7th in U19 World MTB Champs
Getting frocked up for Kylie and Justin's Wedding (which also doubled as a high school reunion)
That is all for now. Training is back on and I promise to tell you about my new bikes soon!
Take care, thanks for reading and get out there and ride your bike!!
Rather than bore you with details of what I got up to on my break, here are some photos and you can "choose your own adventure"!
Caroline Buchanan, on her way to winning World Championship 4X Gold at Mt Stromlo
Photo "pinched" from Greg Long :)
To see the full 4X Run: Freecaster TV
Photo "pinched" from Greg Long :)
To see the full 4X Run: Freecaster TV
A bit of Race All Winter (RAW) at DGV. (Photo from Action Snaps)
Bec Henderson on her way to 7th in U19 World MTB Champs
Visit to Matt's extended family in Bris Vegas
That is all for now. Training is back on and I promise to tell you about my new bikes soon!
Take care, thanks for reading and get out there and ride your bike!!
Aug 20, 2009
And then what happened?
Victorian Road Champs
NTID TT Camp
16th - 18th August 2009
As you have probably heard, Sunday's RR at Portarlington was cancelled due to dangerous weather. It really was quite horrendous, I have never seen winds like it! Trees were having trouble staying upright, so I am not sure how cyclists were going to stay perpendicular to the ground!!
(Taken from Noire Edition 37, see them at: Noire- a webcomic)
Thus, Sunday was an unexpected recovery day.
Monday: we headed to Ballarat to have a look over the Nationals TT and RR courses. This is the year that I am going to front up to for the National TT, glad I saw that hill at the start so I know what I am getting myself in for though! It is brutal! If I can manage that I think I will be able to manage a ride that I will be happy with :) Being realistic, I won't be riding the RR so I didn't take too much notice of the course, although it also has "the hill" and a speedy descent!
Tuesday: testing time at CycleEdge, one 2 minute effort and one 10 minute effort. Having never done these before, I wasn't sure what to expect. The 2 minute one was alright, I was pretty happy with the power output for that one and yes I did need the bucket, thanks for asking. The 10 minute one I was disappointed with, I really struggled to find a gear that gave me a suitable cadence, as a consequence my power outputs was all over the shop and my average was way down on what I normally put out- boo.
Wednesday: official start to my break! Woohoo! Don't get me wrong, I love my bike, but I need a break both mentally and physically. However, don't think I'll be sitting around doing nothing, I have two other bikes that need to be ridden, starting with RAW Track on Friday night, followed up with some mountain biking over the weekend!
Be sure to come back soon for some bike reviews-I have new road and track bikes to tell y0u about!
Thanks for reading, and enjoy your bike- the weather is getting warmer out there so you have no excuse.
NTID TT Camp
16th - 18th August 2009
As you have probably heard, Sunday's RR at Portarlington was cancelled due to dangerous weather. It really was quite horrendous, I have never seen winds like it! Trees were having trouble staying upright, so I am not sure how cyclists were going to stay perpendicular to the ground!!
(Taken from Noire Edition 37, see them at: Noire- a webcomic)
Thus, Sunday was an unexpected recovery day.
Monday: we headed to Ballarat to have a look over the Nationals TT and RR courses. This is the year that I am going to front up to for the National TT, glad I saw that hill at the start so I know what I am getting myself in for though! It is brutal! If I can manage that I think I will be able to manage a ride that I will be happy with :) Being realistic, I won't be riding the RR so I didn't take too much notice of the course, although it also has "the hill" and a speedy descent!
Tuesday: testing time at CycleEdge, one 2 minute effort and one 10 minute effort. Having never done these before, I wasn't sure what to expect. The 2 minute one was alright, I was pretty happy with the power output for that one and yes I did need the bucket, thanks for asking. The 10 minute one I was disappointed with, I really struggled to find a gear that gave me a suitable cadence, as a consequence my power outputs was all over the shop and my average was way down on what I normally put out- boo.
Wednesday: official start to my break! Woohoo! Don't get me wrong, I love my bike, but I need a break both mentally and physically. However, don't think I'll be sitting around doing nothing, I have two other bikes that need to be ridden, starting with RAW Track on Friday night, followed up with some mountain biking over the weekend!
Be sure to come back soon for some bike reviews-I have new road and track bikes to tell y0u about!
Thanks for reading, and enjoy your bike- the weather is getting warmer out there so you have no excuse.
It is all fun and games, until someone loses an eye
Victorian Crit Champs
Saturday 15th Sugust 2009
Geelong Botanic Gardens Course
Warmish, little bit breezy.
15 laps of 2.3km oval, sprints every second lap from lap 13-3.
Fast and furious was the order of the race today. The course wasn't technical, you just needed to be careful of the odd hole and the bitumen cutting away to the grass/dirt. There was also a slight rise on the opposite side to the start finish line which had the effect of bringing the speed of the bunch back under control, unfortunately it wasn't enough for anyone to actually get away on.
Nothing got away today. Many tried, including myself, but there wasn't a break to be had for love nor money. It was clear very early on that it was going to come down to a bunch sprint. Also clear from early in the race was that there were a number of nervous bike riders in the bunch, and that combined with speed can be a dangerous combination. The hint of what lay a head was in the couple of adventures I, and several others, went on off the sealed road in acts of self preservation.
Coming into the final sprint, everyone was getting themselves sorted out for the finish and all of a sudden there was that dreadful noise of carbon meeting bitumen. Unfortunately it wasn't one or two bikes, it was about 30% of the bunch that was hitting the ground. I was positioned on the other side of the road to where things happened, yet still needed a brief detour on the grass to not get caught up in things. With all the commotion, I hesitated a little, my initial reaction was that the bike race was over and that sprinting would be a bit hollow. I don't think I was alone in that thought. I did get over my hesitation, though it was a little late, to finish 8th. Given the circumstances, I am somewhat ambivalent about this.
Jenny Macpherson was first over the line, ahead of Peta Mullens and Davina Summers.
The damage to the girls with the NTID group for the weekend included- broken collarbone (Bec Halliday), serious grazing, abrasions and bruises (Sarah Roy), black eye and soft tissue damage (Bron Ryan), and some bruising (Laura Luxford). I believe that there was another broken collar bone and some other injuries. Heal well and swiftly girls.
Saturday 15th Sugust 2009
Geelong Botanic Gardens Course
Warmish, little bit breezy.
15 laps of 2.3km oval, sprints every second lap from lap 13-3.
Fast and furious was the order of the race today. The course wasn't technical, you just needed to be careful of the odd hole and the bitumen cutting away to the grass/dirt. There was also a slight rise on the opposite side to the start finish line which had the effect of bringing the speed of the bunch back under control, unfortunately it wasn't enough for anyone to actually get away on.
Nothing got away today. Many tried, including myself, but there wasn't a break to be had for love nor money. It was clear very early on that it was going to come down to a bunch sprint. Also clear from early in the race was that there were a number of nervous bike riders in the bunch, and that combined with speed can be a dangerous combination. The hint of what lay a head was in the couple of adventures I, and several others, went on off the sealed road in acts of self preservation.
Coming into the final sprint, everyone was getting themselves sorted out for the finish and all of a sudden there was that dreadful noise of carbon meeting bitumen. Unfortunately it wasn't one or two bikes, it was about 30% of the bunch that was hitting the ground. I was positioned on the other side of the road to where things happened, yet still needed a brief detour on the grass to not get caught up in things. With all the commotion, I hesitated a little, my initial reaction was that the bike race was over and that sprinting would be a bit hollow. I don't think I was alone in that thought. I did get over my hesitation, though it was a little late, to finish 8th. Given the circumstances, I am somewhat ambivalent about this.
Jenny Macpherson was first over the line, ahead of Peta Mullens and Davina Summers.
The damage to the girls with the NTID group for the weekend included- broken collarbone (Bec Halliday), serious grazing, abrasions and bruises (Sarah Roy), black eye and soft tissue damage (Bron Ryan), and some bruising (Laura Luxford). I believe that there was another broken collar bone and some other injuries. Heal well and swiftly girls.
Who left that there?!
Victorian State TT Champs
Gnawarre to Ceres (outskirts of Geelong)
Friday 14th August 2009
Bit of wind, not warm, but not cold.
Flying in to Geelong on Thursday there was time to get a look at the course before we raced over it on Friday. After seeing the 28 km at about 70% of race pace, I was really looking forward to racing it, although a bit apprehensive about the final 1 km, which was considerably vertical! The first 27 km was going to suit me really well, power climbs, fast descents and some flat bits for charging along!
Friday went to plan with my warm and pre-race preps. Oh, except for needing to get Mick to go back and get my license which I had left in the cabin, oops.
The course went out from Gnawarre for 8km then turned and came back past the start and kept going for another 12 km. As I came back past the start, I was feeling incredibly good, much the same as I had at Calga a few weeks ago. The roads were straight most of the time and you had a good view of who was coming after you had turned and who was ahead. After I had turned I saw Kathy Watt bearing down on Suz Alway- Suz was 2 minutes behind me, Kathy 1 min behind her. Suddenly, along with the other aims of the day, I added the goal of not letting Kathy catch me (and hopefully to finish ahead of her!).
As I passed the start line I was starting to make ground on my one minute marker. It took a little while, but I reeled her in and was still feeling incredibly strong. Down the fast descent I snuck a peek at my SRM, only to see my speed creeping over my previous fastest of speed of 72kph- 76 kph was the max speed for the day, adrenaline anyone?!
Past the 5 km marker I was still riding the race plan and feeling good. Same thing at 3km. Then about 2km, the course started to kick up, that was OK. Then at about 1km it just kept dragging. Suddenly my speed was washing away and I was losing time. The encouragement of the kids at the local primary school had a massive impact on my dragging myself to the top. (OK, maybe it wasn't that bad, but it certainly felt it!) As I crested the hill, I found myself a sprinting gear and made for the finish line quick smart. Sian tells me the disk appeared to be working hard as I took the corner for the finish, and we all know appearance is everything!!
In the end I stopped the clock at 43:55.06, 7th place. I also achieved my impromptu target of not getting caught by Kathy, and I finished in front of her (just!). 96% of the race had gone to plan, damn that 4% for raining on my parade!
SA rocket, Carly Light, continued her awesome form, smashing the field with 41:27.55, Louise Kerr took silver (42:30.20), fellow Canberran Bron Ryan took the bronze (42:54.94) and Sarah Roy was 4th (43:09.09).
One day I will be a better hill climber, until then, sheer power will just have to do!!
Gnawarre to Ceres (outskirts of Geelong)
Friday 14th August 2009
Bit of wind, not warm, but not cold.
Flying in to Geelong on Thursday there was time to get a look at the course before we raced over it on Friday. After seeing the 28 km at about 70% of race pace, I was really looking forward to racing it, although a bit apprehensive about the final 1 km, which was considerably vertical! The first 27 km was going to suit me really well, power climbs, fast descents and some flat bits for charging along!
Friday went to plan with my warm and pre-race preps. Oh, except for needing to get Mick to go back and get my license which I had left in the cabin, oops.
The course went out from Gnawarre for 8km then turned and came back past the start and kept going for another 12 km. As I came back past the start, I was feeling incredibly good, much the same as I had at Calga a few weeks ago. The roads were straight most of the time and you had a good view of who was coming after you had turned and who was ahead. After I had turned I saw Kathy Watt bearing down on Suz Alway- Suz was 2 minutes behind me, Kathy 1 min behind her. Suddenly, along with the other aims of the day, I added the goal of not letting Kathy catch me (and hopefully to finish ahead of her!).
As I passed the start line I was starting to make ground on my one minute marker. It took a little while, but I reeled her in and was still feeling incredibly strong. Down the fast descent I snuck a peek at my SRM, only to see my speed creeping over my previous fastest of speed of 72kph- 76 kph was the max speed for the day, adrenaline anyone?!
Past the 5 km marker I was still riding the race plan and feeling good. Same thing at 3km. Then about 2km, the course started to kick up, that was OK. Then at about 1km it just kept dragging. Suddenly my speed was washing away and I was losing time. The encouragement of the kids at the local primary school had a massive impact on my dragging myself to the top. (OK, maybe it wasn't that bad, but it certainly felt it!) As I crested the hill, I found myself a sprinting gear and made for the finish line quick smart. Sian tells me the disk appeared to be working hard as I took the corner for the finish, and we all know appearance is everything!!
In the end I stopped the clock at 43:55.06, 7th place. I also achieved my impromptu target of not getting caught by Kathy, and I finished in front of her (just!). 96% of the race had gone to plan, damn that 4% for raining on my parade!
SA rocket, Carly Light, continued her awesome form, smashing the field with 41:27.55, Louise Kerr took silver (42:30.20), fellow Canberran Bron Ryan took the bronze (42:54.94) and Sarah Roy was 4th (43:09.09).
One day I will be a better hill climber, until then, sheer power will just have to do!!
Aug 6, 2009
A few things I like
So, the last couple of weeks have been all about training and making sure I am as ready as can be for the next NRS round in Geelong (August 14-16). Instead of telling you about how "life is a highway" (yes there has been endless highway kms), and how much fun it is to beat the postie up a hill, here are three things that make these kms bearable. (By the way, these are in no way "cash for comment" items, just things I like.)
1) Elmore Oil. Made in Bendigo, Victoria (Australia), this is my favourite oil for self massage. Pharmacologically I am not sure how the tea tree, eucalyptus and olive oils actually combine to relax tense muscles and even if it is just a placebo effect, it works for me! www.elmoreoil.com.au for more details, don't be out off by the arthritis pain relief, though I am sure it is excellent for that as well, this stuff is gold. Although, it is not quite a complete substitute for Phil, my masseur at Canberra Massage...
2) Bellweather Windstorm gloves. Technically these are mountain biking gloves, however, when it is below zero here I don't really care as long as my fingers are warm. These were an awesome recommendation from Bobby at OnyaBike Belco, and I haven't been disappointed. In fact, rather than find my hands too cold, I actually had to take them off on my way to work one morning as my hands were too warm! And, yes they have a toweling bit for wiping your nose in the cold too! My only complaint is that they can be a little cumbersome when it comes to getting things out of your pockets or unwrapping your food- hot tip, be prepared! And to top it off, they are inexpensive too, RRP $40.
3) My fixxie. The perfect recovery bike for me- enforced small gear all day and no free wheeling! No it is not one of these new fashionable fixxies that has been blinged out, it is a geared bike that has had some corrective surgery to fix it. To be honest, it is the ugliest bike on the road, but so ugly it is HOT! (If it wasn't so cold outside, I'd go and take a photo for you!!) I really do enjoy riding this bike, reminds me of track, and I can feel the benefits of continual spinning that transfer across to the rest of my riding.
Just thought I'd share a few hot tips and mix things up a bit :)
Take care and thanks for reading.
1) Elmore Oil. Made in Bendigo, Victoria (Australia), this is my favourite oil for self massage. Pharmacologically I am not sure how the tea tree, eucalyptus and olive oils actually combine to relax tense muscles and even if it is just a placebo effect, it works for me! www.elmoreoil.com.au for more details, don't be out off by the arthritis pain relief, though I am sure it is excellent for that as well, this stuff is gold. Although, it is not quite a complete substitute for Phil, my masseur at Canberra Massage...
2) Bellweather Windstorm gloves. Technically these are mountain biking gloves, however, when it is below zero here I don't really care as long as my fingers are warm. These were an awesome recommendation from Bobby at OnyaBike Belco, and I haven't been disappointed. In fact, rather than find my hands too cold, I actually had to take them off on my way to work one morning as my hands were too warm! And, yes they have a toweling bit for wiping your nose in the cold too! My only complaint is that they can be a little cumbersome when it comes to getting things out of your pockets or unwrapping your food- hot tip, be prepared! And to top it off, they are inexpensive too, RRP $40.
3) My fixxie. The perfect recovery bike for me- enforced small gear all day and no free wheeling! No it is not one of these new fashionable fixxies that has been blinged out, it is a geared bike that has had some corrective surgery to fix it. To be honest, it is the ugliest bike on the road, but so ugly it is HOT! (If it wasn't so cold outside, I'd go and take a photo for you!!) I really do enjoy riding this bike, reminds me of track, and I can feel the benefits of continual spinning that transfer across to the rest of my riding.
Just thought I'd share a few hot tips and mix things up a bit :)
Take care and thanks for reading.
Jul 26, 2009
Dancing on the pedals
NSW ITT Championships
Somersby to Calga, 21.5km
26th July 2009
Overcast, but still- perfect for a TT
It is funny where you get your inspiration from when you're squeezing the last of what you've got to get over the pinch before the finish line. Being le Tour time, I found myself focusing on images of Contador "dancing on the pedals" (in the words of Phil Liggett) to urge myself over the top. Also the thought that it was only a pursuit left on the other side helped as well, odd how I break things in to track dimensions as well!
Today was one of the rare times in a bike race that all things come together. Although I did fail at reading this morning and timed my warm up to finish for a start time 30 minutes before I was actually away! Ooops! In the end I don't think that was the worst thing in the world I was incredibly relaxed and focused, rather than wasting energy being nervous and fretting.
I think the cow was a bit bemused about it all!
From the start I was comfortable on the weapon and was finding it easy to pace myself and hold a good speed. Conscious of the few pinches of the course, I kept an eye on power output to make sure I had something for the final nasty pinch and focused on holding good form.
Always a highlight- I looked down in a 60km zone to find I was speeding! Looked down a little bit later to find I was holding 71kph :D There was also the 6 people that I went past, which is always a nice feeling in TT.
Passing people in front of me, always makes it more enjoyable! (sorry Imogen!)
In the end it turned out that I had ticked all my boxes today- I'd been aggressive, I'd held good form and I had found that little bit extra to really finish off the race. One very happy bike rider! All that remained was for the official times and positions to be determined. My SRM was telling me sub 32 minutes, with an average speed of 40.3kph, but I wanted to see the official results before I got too excited.
Special thanks to Dean Redzic and Pothole as my coaches for the preparation for this event; Lyn Heritage and Glenn Doney for their ongoing support; Mick and the boys at OnyaBike Belconnen; NTID program; and Matt for being super! And special thanks to Sian Mulholland for helping me out to improve my position.
Somersby to Calga, 21.5km
26th July 2009
Overcast, but still- perfect for a TT
It is funny where you get your inspiration from when you're squeezing the last of what you've got to get over the pinch before the finish line. Being le Tour time, I found myself focusing on images of Contador "dancing on the pedals" (in the words of Phil Liggett) to urge myself over the top. Also the thought that it was only a pursuit left on the other side helped as well, odd how I break things in to track dimensions as well!
Today was one of the rare times in a bike race that all things come together. Although I did fail at reading this morning and timed my warm up to finish for a start time 30 minutes before I was actually away! Ooops! In the end I don't think that was the worst thing in the world I was incredibly relaxed and focused, rather than wasting energy being nervous and fretting.
I think the cow was a bit bemused about it all!
From the start I was comfortable on the weapon and was finding it easy to pace myself and hold a good speed. Conscious of the few pinches of the course, I kept an eye on power output to make sure I had something for the final nasty pinch and focused on holding good form.
Always a highlight- I looked down in a 60km zone to find I was speeding! Looked down a little bit later to find I was holding 71kph :D There was also the 6 people that I went past, which is always a nice feeling in TT.
Passing people in front of me, always makes it more enjoyable! (sorry Imogen!)
In the end it turned out that I had ticked all my boxes today- I'd been aggressive, I'd held good form and I had found that little bit extra to really finish off the race. One very happy bike rider! All that remained was for the official times and positions to be determined. My SRM was telling me sub 32 minutes, with an average speed of 40.3kph, but I wanted to see the official results before I got too excited.
After a bit of a wait- something was wrong with the electronic timing- we had confirmation of my data and the podium was decided. Gold, by 1 min 10 seconds, can't complain about that! What makes me the happiest about this podium is that it was at this race that I had my most spectacular fail last year (see here). Congratulations to Sarah Roy and India McLean on a fine effort for the rest of the podium. Also congratulations to Mitch Lovelock-Fay for gold in U19 and to Pothole for silver in MMas2. Commiserations to Sue Powell who copped a flat 4km in, pretty sure you were on form for a cracker Sue!
Special thanks to Dean Redzic and Pothole as my coaches for the preparation for this event; Lyn Heritage and Glenn Doney for their ongoing support; Mick and the boys at OnyaBike Belconnen; NTID program; and Matt for being super! And special thanks to Sian Mulholland for helping me out to improve my position.
Jul 12, 2009
Wanted...
A jersey that says:
It is a pet hate of mine to have people I don't know sit on my wheel and not offer to do a turn. Mostly it is when I am riding to work when it annoys me the most. Generally it is a guy sitting on and usually I am on my fixxie!
Although there was a guy trying to hang on today when we were motorpacing along the highway, he didn't last long though, I kept calling the moto up, hehehe :D
I don't mind if you want to share the ride, some of my best rides home have been two-up TTs along Adelaide Ave, but it is just not right to just suck a wheel! Especially when the wheel you are sucking makes it obvious you are not welcome, for example slowing down to painfully slow or riding in the gutter, or both together!
If your excuse is that you think you are superior to the wheel you are sucking, knock yourself out and go past, it will make no difference to first wheel riding along and they won't have you free loading off them!
I believe this is a way of life in Italy... drop over to Vicki's blog to read about her experience.
OK, rant over! I feel better now :)
Unauthorised wheel suckers will not be tolerated.
Do a turn or back off!
Do a turn or back off!
It is a pet hate of mine to have people I don't know sit on my wheel and not offer to do a turn. Mostly it is when I am riding to work when it annoys me the most. Generally it is a guy sitting on and usually I am on my fixxie!
Although there was a guy trying to hang on today when we were motorpacing along the highway, he didn't last long though, I kept calling the moto up, hehehe :D
I don't mind if you want to share the ride, some of my best rides home have been two-up TTs along Adelaide Ave, but it is just not right to just suck a wheel! Especially when the wheel you are sucking makes it obvious you are not welcome, for example slowing down to painfully slow or riding in the gutter, or both together!
If your excuse is that you think you are superior to the wheel you are sucking, knock yourself out and go past, it will make no difference to first wheel riding along and they won't have you free loading off them!
I believe this is a way of life in Italy... drop over to Vicki's blog to read about her experience.
OK, rant over! I feel better now :)
Jul 6, 2009
Fortune Favours the Brave
DBR Australia ACT Women and Juniors Tour
NRS Event
Stage 4: 71.8 km RR
Sunday 5th July
Still Windy!
At the start of the day I was 20th on GC. Whilst not exactly outstanding, it was definitely better than I was expecting. My goal today was to finish as close to this as possible.
It also occurred to me that this was only my 3rd complete stage race. Wonder what I have actually been doing with myself...
The course was similar to Saturday's stage. Out along Uriarra Road all the way to the Homestead, U-bolt and back to Coppins Crossing Rd, to the end of that, U-bolt and then back along Uriarra Rd for 10km to the same turn around as yesterday and then back to SFP. Lots of ups and downs and the false flat which doubles as a wind tunnel!
The bunch had dwindled from Saturday, which most of us weren't unhappy about, but the pace at the start was rather pedestrian and I found myself getting cold and bored... time to mix it up a bit. At about 3km in, I manoeuvred my way to the front of the bunch and went for an attack. I wasn't sure what the bunch was going to do, I wasn't really a threat to overall GC and in the conditions it would take a superhuman effort to stay away all day. On a glance back the bunch hadn't reacted, nice, figured I'd keep digging. Next check Jemma O'Brien was on my wheel- cool, misery loves company!
The two of us continued to swap off through Uriarra Crossing, taking the QOM points, and then along with false flat. Today this stretch was a wind tunnel at its finest. We had to work so hard to even keep moving along this section, let alone hold the bunch off! In the end the bunch caught us at the turn around. That was a lot further than I expected!
Back along the towards the Crossing, I tried to sit in and recover, but that was made difficult by the wind. You know sometimes it is just better to keep rolling through... the things you learn hey?! Then I managed to get stuck behind a dodgier wheel than mine on the descent into the crossing, bugger, lots of ground lost! Determined not to drop too far down GC, I forced my legs to go "fast" up the first of the three sisters. It is easier to do this when there are people in front of you to chase! On the second sister I even managed to pass the spares car!! (Yeah, small things I know!)
A small group of us came together, including Chloe McIntosh, India McLean, Delphine Astier, Heather Evans and B-grade winner Zoe Watters, and we stayed together for the rest of the race, encouraging/willing/dragging each other to the end of the race! We were all creeping towards the end. Myself, maybe I spent a few too many biccies on my adventure up the road, but you never ever know if you never ever go!
As expected there were lots of lessons learnt today. My hot tip from this weekend is: get the little things right and the big things will be easier!
In the end I was 25th on GC, (18th if you take the U19s out) which I am happy with. I was also 4th on QOM which makes me smile :)
From here, it can only improve.
Thanks to ACTAS for the support over the weekend- Glenn, Brent & Sian. Thanks to Pothole and Dean for preparation. Thanks to Matt for putting up with a grumpy cyclist!
NRS Event
Stage 4: 71.8 km RR
Sunday 5th July
Still Windy!
At the start of the day I was 20th on GC. Whilst not exactly outstanding, it was definitely better than I was expecting. My goal today was to finish as close to this as possible.
It also occurred to me that this was only my 3rd complete stage race. Wonder what I have actually been doing with myself...
The course was similar to Saturday's stage. Out along Uriarra Road all the way to the Homestead, U-bolt and back to Coppins Crossing Rd, to the end of that, U-bolt and then back along Uriarra Rd for 10km to the same turn around as yesterday and then back to SFP. Lots of ups and downs and the false flat which doubles as a wind tunnel!
The bunch had dwindled from Saturday, which most of us weren't unhappy about, but the pace at the start was rather pedestrian and I found myself getting cold and bored... time to mix it up a bit. At about 3km in, I manoeuvred my way to the front of the bunch and went for an attack. I wasn't sure what the bunch was going to do, I wasn't really a threat to overall GC and in the conditions it would take a superhuman effort to stay away all day. On a glance back the bunch hadn't reacted, nice, figured I'd keep digging. Next check Jemma O'Brien was on my wheel- cool, misery loves company!
The two of us continued to swap off through Uriarra Crossing, taking the QOM points, and then along with false flat. Today this stretch was a wind tunnel at its finest. We had to work so hard to even keep moving along this section, let alone hold the bunch off! In the end the bunch caught us at the turn around. That was a lot further than I expected!
Back along the towards the Crossing, I tried to sit in and recover, but that was made difficult by the wind. You know sometimes it is just better to keep rolling through... the things you learn hey?! Then I managed to get stuck behind a dodgier wheel than mine on the descent into the crossing, bugger, lots of ground lost! Determined not to drop too far down GC, I forced my legs to go "fast" up the first of the three sisters. It is easier to do this when there are people in front of you to chase! On the second sister I even managed to pass the spares car!! (Yeah, small things I know!)
A small group of us came together, including Chloe McIntosh, India McLean, Delphine Astier, Heather Evans and B-grade winner Zoe Watters, and we stayed together for the rest of the race, encouraging/willing/dragging each other to the end of the race! We were all creeping towards the end. Myself, maybe I spent a few too many biccies on my adventure up the road, but you never ever know if you never ever go!
As expected there were lots of lessons learnt today. My hot tip from this weekend is: get the little things right and the big things will be easier!
In the end I was 25th on GC, (18th if you take the U19s out) which I am happy with. I was also 4th on QOM which makes me smile :)
From here, it can only improve.
Thanks to ACTAS for the support over the weekend- Glenn, Brent & Sian. Thanks to Pothole and Dean for preparation. Thanks to Matt for putting up with a grumpy cyclist!
Um, excuse me legs, we are RACING
DBR Australia ACT Women and Juniors Tour
NRS Event
Stage 2: 40 min + 3 lap Criterium
Saturday 4th July
Temperature dropping and WINDY! (Typical Canberra weather.)
One word, BRUTAL!
At the start of the week, I was totally gee'd for this stage. I knew I was under prepared for the RRs but I had high hopes for this stage. Alas, my legs weren't on the same wave length as head or my heart. No matter how hard I willed them they just lacked spark! Then once my legs didn't want to fire, my head started to over think the race, and I was worrying too much about trying to make sure I was a good position instead of getting myself into said position... vicious cycle! The good news is, I know where the problems are and I reckon I know how to fix them, so bring on some more racing already! In a nutshell, I am just going to think of it as lack of "match practise".
Throw into this mix a bit of laying down on the hot mix, the race being neutralised, what felt like cyclonic winds and the temperature going sub-zero (apparently?!) while we were on course! After rolling around for 5-10 minutes while the crashed riders got up and back on the bike, we were freezing when the race was restarted. There was also comments post race that suggested that the commissaires may have been a bit generous to the riders in the break away with the gap they gave them before we restarted. Oh well, hard to say what affect that really had.
In the end, the bunch was literally blown apart into several smaller bunches with front group taking a lap towards the end. The wind was coming straight across the SFP crit course with the only respite being around the very top corner, and the worst of it as a block headwind through the bottom section! Most of the riders ended up getting pulled off the course with 2 laps to go (myself included) or DNFing of their own accord. Amy Cure was incredibly impressive in the breakaway and then attacking her little group to take the win by about 20 seconds.
NRS Event
Stage 2: 40 min + 3 lap Criterium
Saturday 4th July
Temperature dropping and WINDY! (Typical Canberra weather.)
One word, BRUTAL!
At the start of the week, I was totally gee'd for this stage. I knew I was under prepared for the RRs but I had high hopes for this stage. Alas, my legs weren't on the same wave length as head or my heart. No matter how hard I willed them they just lacked spark! Then once my legs didn't want to fire, my head started to over think the race, and I was worrying too much about trying to make sure I was a good position instead of getting myself into said position... vicious cycle! The good news is, I know where the problems are and I reckon I know how to fix them, so bring on some more racing already! In a nutshell, I am just going to think of it as lack of "match practise".
Throw into this mix a bit of laying down on the hot mix, the race being neutralised, what felt like cyclonic winds and the temperature going sub-zero (apparently?!) while we were on course! After rolling around for 5-10 minutes while the crashed riders got up and back on the bike, we were freezing when the race was restarted. There was also comments post race that suggested that the commissaires may have been a bit generous to the riders in the break away with the gap they gave them before we restarted. Oh well, hard to say what affect that really had.
In the end, the bunch was literally blown apart into several smaller bunches with front group taking a lap towards the end. The wind was coming straight across the SFP crit course with the only respite being around the very top corner, and the worst of it as a block headwind through the bottom section! Most of the riders ended up getting pulled off the course with 2 laps to go (myself included) or DNFing of their own accord. Amy Cure was incredibly impressive in the breakaway and then attacking her little group to take the win by about 20 seconds.
You might surprise yourself
DBR Australia ACT Women and Juniors Tour
NRS Event
Stage 2: 38km RR
Saturday 4th July
Sunny, little breezy.
With the ITT out of the way, it was time to relax, sit back in the bunch and get to the end of the tour. The rest of the stages were just for "training".
It was a big field with the U19, Elite and B grade women all combined for the tour. I think there was close to 70 of us. (OK, compared to some of the races some of you are doing O/S that is not big, but for us that is a lot!) It would have been nice to have been able to use both sides of the road, but we weren't, so we had to suck it up and try and move through the bunch as best as possible. Although staying on the left of the line was more difficult for some than others and the commissaires weren't at all happy with us- and certainly let us know about it on Sunday morning. I believe there were a couple of crashes in the bunch in this stage, I know of at least one as they touched my wheel and came down.
The course was out and back and then left hand turn out and back and into the finish- kind of like a big L. The plan was to be at the front at the first U-bolt. Didn't quite go to plan and ended up a bit too far back when the kick went up the 3 sisters- not that I was ever going to stick with that! (Do I really need to remind you that I have been solely focused on TT and haven't really done any hills lately?!) But despite my poor position at the turn, I promptly set about making up positions and trying to limit the gap to the front of the race.
The little group I was with managed to hold our gap to the leaders until they headed for home after the second U-bolt. In the end I won the kick for our small bunch, finishing 19th, 2:39 on the front bunch. I can't be unhappy with that, I had expected to lose a lot more time and be much further down. Although, I will definitely be trying to improve my hill climbing!
NRS Event
Stage 2: 38km RR
Saturday 4th July
Sunny, little breezy.
With the ITT out of the way, it was time to relax, sit back in the bunch and get to the end of the tour. The rest of the stages were just for "training".
It was a big field with the U19, Elite and B grade women all combined for the tour. I think there was close to 70 of us. (OK, compared to some of the races some of you are doing O/S that is not big, but for us that is a lot!) It would have been nice to have been able to use both sides of the road, but we weren't, so we had to suck it up and try and move through the bunch as best as possible. Although staying on the left of the line was more difficult for some than others and the commissaires weren't at all happy with us- and certainly let us know about it on Sunday morning. I believe there were a couple of crashes in the bunch in this stage, I know of at least one as they touched my wheel and came down.
The course was out and back and then left hand turn out and back and into the finish- kind of like a big L. The plan was to be at the front at the first U-bolt. Didn't quite go to plan and ended up a bit too far back when the kick went up the 3 sisters- not that I was ever going to stick with that! (Do I really need to remind you that I have been solely focused on TT and haven't really done any hills lately?!) But despite my poor position at the turn, I promptly set about making up positions and trying to limit the gap to the front of the race.
The little group I was with managed to hold our gap to the leaders until they headed for home after the second U-bolt. In the end I won the kick for our small bunch, finishing 19th, 2:39 on the front bunch. I can't be unhappy with that, I had expected to lose a lot more time and be much further down. Although, I will definitely be trying to improve my hill climbing!
Patiently Impatient
DBR Australia ACT Women and Juniors Tour
NRS Event
Stage 1: 15.5km ITT
Friday 3rd July
Temperature dropping and WINDY! (Typical Canberra weather.)
After last weekend's showings I was pretty gee'd for the TT stage of the tour. I knew I wasn't in much form for the rest of the tour with all the commotion at the start of the year, but I was going to have a red hot go at this stage.
Race prep was pretty much perfect. I had the day off work to go through all my pre-race habits and was fairly well set when 2:33:30 rolled around. I would be lying if I said I hadn't been nervous about this event, I always find that with the "big ones", and even more so on home soil- something about local expectations...
Going through the motions of the warm up
The wind out on course made it incredibly tough at times, it seemed to be coming constantly either as a cross or head wind, never did it seem to be a tailwind! So typical of Canberra!
At the time I felt I was riding pretty well, but in retrospect, I am not that happy with it. There are few things that I need to work on and by no stretch of the imagination was this my best TT. I know that this was but a small step on the way to target events, but as always, never happy unless there is at least a podium! Patiently impatiently!! If this was the absolute best, then there would be no point persisting, but this result encourages me to persist and keeps me driven.
In the end I finished 6th overall, 4th for the Elite women's category.
Out of the start gate.
NRS Event
Stage 1: 15.5km ITT
Friday 3rd July
Temperature dropping and WINDY! (Typical Canberra weather.)
After last weekend's showings I was pretty gee'd for the TT stage of the tour. I knew I wasn't in much form for the rest of the tour with all the commotion at the start of the year, but I was going to have a red hot go at this stage.
Race prep was pretty much perfect. I had the day off work to go through all my pre-race habits and was fairly well set when 2:33:30 rolled around. I would be lying if I said I hadn't been nervous about this event, I always find that with the "big ones", and even more so on home soil- something about local expectations...
Going through the motions of the warm upThe wind out on course made it incredibly tough at times, it seemed to be coming constantly either as a cross or head wind, never did it seem to be a tailwind! So typical of Canberra!
At the time I felt I was riding pretty well, but in retrospect, I am not that happy with it. There are few things that I need to work on and by no stretch of the imagination was this my best TT. I know that this was but a small step on the way to target events, but as always, never happy unless there is at least a podium! Patiently impatiently!! If this was the absolute best, then there would be no point persisting, but this result encourages me to persist and keeps me driven.
In the end I finished 6th overall, 4th for the Elite women's category.
Out of the start gate. I was glad to have my long sleeve skinsuit and knee warmers on!
(Photos from Andrew Stainley, ACTAS)
(Photos from Andrew Stainley, ACTAS)
Jul 2, 2009
Pretty sure a gel on the start line is a warm-up... right?
Goulburn CC ITT 37km
Windellama (Road)
Cold, wind increasing, rain just holding off until we finished!
28 June 2009
Backing up after the performance at Dapto involved an overnight stay in Goulburn to reduce the amount of time spent on the road.
After careful planning of what time we needed to leave to get to the start, which I believed to be in Windellama, a small locality about 30km from Goulburn, we settled into our hotel room to watch the Wallabies thrash the Italians.
The problem really started when we couldn't find anyone else that looked like they would be racing a bike around Windellama. A quick phone call back to Canberra to get contact numbers in Goulburn revealed that we were completely in the wrong place and in fact were 30 km from the start line!! And about 30 minutes from scheduled start time!! Thankfully they called the race organisers and let them know we were on our way.
Record timing to get into my skinsuit, register and wheels on bike. I had about 1 minute to get to the line by the time I was dressed. I rapidly inhaled my gel and got to the line. Fingers crossed that I wasn't too stiff from yesterday and that I would get through this rather long TT!!
I made the conscious decision to ride conservatively on the outward leg to try and get myself warmed up. Despite this "conservative" approach I still posted a pretty tidy split and felt remarkably good. I even managed to remember to drink and feed, something I am unaccustomed to doing as most of the TTs for women are less than 30km.
Prize for winning B-grade=>
The SRM data, and the follow car driver (Thanks Matt) both said that I had ridden smoothly and consistently- you can't ask for much more! And the final results said that I had posted the 2nd fastest time of the day (which was fastest female, but I was the only one!) and I had accidentally burgled B-grade (I never know when racing away from home!!).
Thanks to the Goulburn CC for a very well run race and friendly faces, despite the miserable weather! The post race food was most welcome!
Results:
Course details:
Windellama (Road)
Cold, wind increasing, rain just holding off until we finished!
28 June 2009
Backing up after the performance at Dapto involved an overnight stay in Goulburn to reduce the amount of time spent on the road.
After careful planning of what time we needed to leave to get to the start, which I believed to be in Windellama, a small locality about 30km from Goulburn, we settled into our hotel room to watch the Wallabies thrash the Italians.
The problem really started when we couldn't find anyone else that looked like they would be racing a bike around Windellama. A quick phone call back to Canberra to get contact numbers in Goulburn revealed that we were completely in the wrong place and in fact were 30 km from the start line!! And about 30 minutes from scheduled start time!! Thankfully they called the race organisers and let them know we were on our way.
Record timing to get into my skinsuit, register and wheels on bike. I had about 1 minute to get to the line by the time I was dressed. I rapidly inhaled my gel and got to the line. Fingers crossed that I wasn't too stiff from yesterday and that I would get through this rather long TT!!
I made the conscious decision to ride conservatively on the outward leg to try and get myself warmed up. Despite this "conservative" approach I still posted a pretty tidy split and felt remarkably good. I even managed to remember to drink and feed, something I am unaccustomed to doing as most of the TTs for women are less than 30km.
Prize for winning B-grade=>
The return leg was more aggressive and I was happy to record a negative split, even with the ever strengthening cross-head wind! I had set myself a target of 1 hour for this course, without any real basis, and was happy to have gone 24 seconds over that target given the "warm-up" I had had, and the fact that I was backing up after smashing myself at Dapto!
The SRM data, and the follow car driver (Thanks Matt) both said that I had ridden smoothly and consistently- you can't ask for much more! And the final results said that I had posted the 2nd fastest time of the day (which was fastest female, but I was the only one!) and I had accidentally burgled B-grade (I never know when racing away from home!!).
Thanks to the Goulburn CC for a very well run race and friendly faces, despite the miserable weather! The post race food was most welcome!
Results:
Windeallama Road Time Trials - 36km
28th June 2009
| Place | Grade | Name | Time |
| 1 | b | Rebecca Barwick | 1.00.25.30 |
| 1 | a | William Lind | 58.42.10 |
| 3 | b | Phil Katen | 1.05.40.79 |
| 2 | b | Mark Gibson | 1.05.24.52 |
| 3 | a | Jason Mahoney | 1.00.31.44 |
| 5 | a | Noel Barrett | 1.04.07.19 |
| a | Kerry Baxter | 1.04.12.82 | |
| 2 | a | Jerry Gilchrist | 1.00.28.07 |
| 4 | a | Ben Hay | 1.02.35.65 |
| 4 | b | Adam Lambert | 1.08.54.37 |
| 1 | c | Chris Bushell | 1.15.18.29 |
Course details:
ITT(i)S the season...
Illawarra Cycling Club ITT, Dapto
Saturday 27 June 2009
Warm and sun, with rain threatening!
I have a soft spot for this course. It was the first course that I raced my TT bike over last year (see this post) and being able to race on it about 12 months later gave me a good opportunity to gauge improvement.
According to the club website the race was meant to be 36 km but after a quick word to the organisers I convinced them that one lap of the course (~18 km) would be sufficient for me!
I was the 8th one away and the first one home. There is something very satisfying about that! And my time was 30 seconds than last years! Nice! According to the "official" results, I was third fastest over the 1 lap version and fastest female. And to top it off, the power output according the SRM was awesomely and consistent. Sweet!
There might be some form there after all!! :D
The course profile looks like this, if you are interested:
Saturday 27 June 2009
Warm and sun, with rain threatening!
I have a soft spot for this course. It was the first course that I raced my TT bike over last year (see this post) and being able to race on it about 12 months later gave me a good opportunity to gauge improvement.
According to the club website the race was meant to be 36 km but after a quick word to the organisers I convinced them that one lap of the course (~18 km) would be sufficient for me!
I was the 8th one away and the first one home. There is something very satisfying about that! And my time was 30 seconds than last years! Nice! According to the "official" results, I was third fastest over the 1 lap version and fastest female. And to top it off, the power output according the SRM was awesomely and consistent. Sweet!
There might be some form there after all!! :D
The course profile looks like this, if you are interested:
Jun 15, 2009
Product Review
Product: JetBlack Fluid Trainer
Some time ago I got a JetBlack Fluid Trainer from Mick at OnyaBike Belco to review (thanks Mick!). I have finally logged enough hours on it to be able to properly review it.
The best way to tell you about this product is probably to go through the steps for using it.
#1. Set up. This can be a bit tricky until you have some practise, as the trainer is screws onto the rear skewer and at times you wish you had a third hand. But once it is all lined up and fastened, the bike is very secure. The unit comes with a compatible skewer, very useful if you have the angled Mavic ones- they don't fit- and for preserving the ones that belong to your wheel!
#2. Adjusting the pressure of the wheel roller. This can be even trickier. Too much pressure and the wheel won't turn freely, too little and there is no resistance- obviously! The temperature of the fluid is important, as the fluid warms up it starts to flow more freely so you may need to adjust the pressure again- I have really only noticed this when taking the unit from the shed to somewhere warmer to train (possibly a good reason to train inside and keep it in there :) ).
#3. Getting through the session… actually that has nothing to do with the trainer! Once it is all set up I have found that sessions go by pretty well. The unit is smooth enough to hold a good cadence, quiet enough that I can be training inside while Matt watches the Cats win, and has enough resistance that I can get through SE efforts without using all the gears in my cassette.
*Best tip I can give you for getting through your session however, make sure you get a riser block, or at least a Canberra Red brick, to put your front wheel up on! You might find you spend a lot of time propping yourself back on your seat otherwise as the rear wheel seems to be considerable high off the ground.*
#4. End of session. Unscrew the pressure off the rear wheel and undo the unit from your rear wheel, simple as that.
As with any trainer that involves pressure on the rear wheel, it will wear through your tyre. Best to have a separate tyre, if not wheel, for using on the trainer and the road- square tyres are not fun to actually “ride” on! Although, the fluid means that it is not as destructive as other mag/turbo trainers.
Summing up, despite the minor issues I have highlighted here, I rate the JetBlack Fluid Trainer:
- For the price, this trainer is awesome.
- Once you get it set right, it is super smooth.
- It is quiet, which means training inside when the apparent
- It is sturdy, absolutely no stability issues when doing efforts out of the saddle.
- The resistance is great- always happy if I have gears to spare, gives me something to aim for!
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