Aug 14, 2011

Fast racing is rare in amateur racing in the U.K, usually the format is race for a bit a break goes some guys chase for a bit get frustrated and then its game over. However, this race was different with the Olympic Test event taking the best UK teams to London for a well deserved shoeing!  Although as it proved an amateur field for an amateur race does not mean easier racing, it just means that more riders feel that they are in with a chance...

Aug 5, 2011

Having previously won a National road title (Masters 35-39 in 2008), I’m more than aware of just how much focus it takes and how so many factors can determine the outcome. Having been so close to winning the Master’s event in 2005 & 06 (leading a 3 up sprint with 100m to go both times only to get passed by both my poursuvants), it can really begin to get you down, knowing that you’re as good as the rest of the guys your age...

Aug 2, 2011

The National Mountain Bike Championships is probably the most important competition in the racing calendar. It is a race where the UKs best riders battle to be the Champion and win the National Jersey. For me I wanted to win it. It was a chance to show that I am the best and how much I wanted it. I was in the U23 female category and was up against 5 other riders. The prospect of me winning was high but I didn’t want to go into the race over...

Jul 29, 2011

The French Crusade – James Williams In 2008 I had a lovely holiday in Normandy with the family, some good cycling companions, fine wine and cheeses, plus a generous splattering of racing. A fun time was had by all, so when the opportunity to emulate that holiday recently presented itself, I gladly took it. After a quick look at the French racing calendar, dates were set, plans made and cars packed; off to France we go! In between beach trips...

Jul 28, 2011

After Nicole’s little bump, I was left as the only zebra racing at the Women’s Team Series race from Naseby, Northants on 24th July.  At 2.5 hours drive, it was close enough to home to travel down on the morning of the race.  As usual, I arrived in plenty of time to give myself a chance to have a warm up spin round the course to suss out the hills. The race proper started about 10 minutes after the Men’s race that had some...