21

Me At The Tour de France

A knee injury has, unfortunately, forced me off my bike for a couple of weeks. Even more unfortunately, this setback has coincided with my major goal of the season, La Marmotte. There’s nothing I can do about it so I’ve not let it get to me. Instead I’ve turned my focus onto The Tour de France. An opportunity presented itself earlier this week to visit the tour so I grabbed it with both arms.

I’ve visited the tour before and I absolutely love it. We booked ourselves onto the Eurotunnel early on Monday morning and travelled into Belgium and towards the town of Spa, which was hosting the finish of the third stage (2nd road stage). As we approached the outskirts of the town, it became apparent that we were going to have to park 2km out from the city centre and walk in. It was during this walk that we realised that the finish was going to be quite dangerous, especially in the wet. We were soon in the centre of Spa and the atmosphere was electric! All of the team buses were parked in the streets and a large crowd had gathered. After a quick coffee we made our way around the team buses getting a real feel for how the pro teams operate every day for 21 days. We couldn’t get near the finish line so we opted to stay in the team area and waited to get a glimpse of the rain soaked gladiators as they returned to the safety of their teams. We were thrilled to have a chat with Sky’s Rod Ellingwoth who took time to explain the day’s events. We were also very impressed with the openness of teams such as Cervelo, Milram and Garmin.

On the following day we made our way to Flanders. We found the village of Heuvelay, which was about 6km from the finish. More significantly was the fact that the final section of pave finished on the outskirts of the town. The unstable surface of the flandrain cobles plays a massive part in cycle racing, but not usually in the Tour de France. It takes a special kind of bike rider to be successful over this surface and some of the “general classification” riders were very nervous. We parked our car and took the bikes out and were able to ride the last 6km to the finish. It was a real pleasure to ride the Rhigos 1 over the same route that the Worlds best riders would be riding a few hours later. After a brief chat with Dave Harmon from Team Wiggle Tandem, we headed back Heuvelay for a coffee and some frites and mayonnaise (a real Belgian delicacy) once back in the village we decided to ride the pave. A massive crowd was gathering. A live band was playing on the village green and atmosphere was wonderful. As I rode along the pave through poppy strewn fields the gathering crowd were cheering and clapping. I allowed myself to drift to another World. The injured knee that had forced me out of La Marmotte was banished from my mind. This is why I love Flanders. This is why I love the Tour de France!

With the bikes safely back in the car we found a small bar and were able to watch the stage unfold. We could see the early sections of Pave shredding the peloton. It was soon time to take our place on the side of the road. In the distance we could see the dust ball being produced from the lead group and the surrounding entourage of motor vehicles. They were soon upon us and we were thrilled to see that Geraint Thomas from Team Sky was in the leading group of about a dozen riders. We dashed back to the bar to see the finish and just made it to see Thor Hushovd take the win. The Norwegian fans were elated and beginning to celebrate. Unfortunately we had to head back to the tunnel and back to reality. We had a magnificent time. If you get a chance to visit the Tour de France please take it. You’ll love it!

20

The Verenti Magnificat

Verenti Magnificat

To attempt two 100 mile plus sportives in consecutive weekends was always going to be a big challenge for me, but with my big goal for the season, La Marmotte, looming on the horizon, I entered the Verenti Magnificat. Formally the Highclere Castle Sportive, this 127 mile event changed start venue this year to Newbury Racecourse. So, once again, I left Mrs Carter sleeping at the crack of dawn, and headed up the A-34. Despite the forecast of dry weather, light rain had begun to fall as I approached the racecourse and I opted to wait in the car before unpacking my Verenti Rhigos 1. A few riders had taken the option of wearing the GPS tracking tags on offer.

These tags enable those interested enough in what you’re doing follow your progress. As most people I know think I’m mad for wanting to ride 127 miles on a Sunday, or not possessing the required IT skills to track me down, I decided against the GPS tag.

The rain had stopped by the time the official start time arrived and I lined up with the Rhigos 1 looking resplendent with a newly trimmed steering tube thanks to a quick dash to Wiggle HQ in the week and the kind flexibility of the Wiggle mechanics.

For the first 5 or 6 miles the pace was “brisk”. A group of around 20 riders had formed and I sat in, determined to not over do it too early, but eager to stay on a wheel and start chewing up some of the 127 miles that lay ahead. As the route left Newbury and headed into the countryside, the road surface became a lot worse. There were a number of guys at the side of the road already fixing punctures. On a sharp descent in mile 9 I was unable to avoid a pot hole in the road and the side wall of my front tyre blew out.

I just managed to stay upright as I could feel the wheel slipping from under me as I came to a stop. I assessed the damage and decided that if I could get sufficient air in the tyre to limp to the first feed station and get mechanical help I may just salvage the day. I managed to get about 40psi in and proceeded at a gingerly pace. The first problem soon came into view. A sharp climb of about 15% gradient. I had to sit back and keep the pressure off the front wheel, but somehow managed to get up and the very slowly down the other side. I rode the next 25 miles at a gentle pace and was very thankful to see the Mavic guys in their yellow van. They sorted me out with a replacement tyre and I was soon on my way. As the route crossed Hampshire, south of Winchester into the Meon valley there appeared to be no flat terrain to be had. I’ve never had to change gears so much in my life.

The climbs were not steep, but they smashed any rhythm that I managed to build. I was glad to see the next drinks station at Warnford, even though I knew an ascent of Old Winchester Hill was waiting for me around the next corner. 60 miles in, and only another 67 to go (gulp). I use Old Winchester Hill regularly in training and that definitely helped as I raced up and across the ridge to the top of the descent into East Meon. I was soon in a small group riding towards Stoner Hill, another climb I’ve ridden many times. Over the top and on towards Four Marks and the next feed station. 80 miles now covered. At this point, most sportives would be either over or have about 20 miles left. I still had 47 miles to ride and last weeks Dragon Ride was beginning to take effect.

As I left the feed station, I looked round for any kind of group that I might be able to share the workload with. Unfortunately I was alone and I pushed on as best I could. Thankfully the terrain was not as undulating as before and I managed to find some rhythm. At the top of the next big climb a feed station with a sign saying 18 miles to go awaited. I just pointed at the food I wanted from the table. I was too tired to speak. I got into a small group after the feed station and the next 12 miles were OK. I lost the group on a climb about 5 miles from the finish and I was left to ride the last few miles back to the racecourse alone and into a nasty head wind. I was very grateful to see the Verenti banners as the finish came into view.

127 miles took their toll on my weary legs. I was, however, pleased to rescue the day after such a disastrous start. I must thank the Mavic staff for replacing my tyre at the first feed station. I will be back next year to try to post a more respectable time.

18

The Verenti Dragon Ride

Last week, just 3 days before the Verenti Dragon Ride, the long awaited Rhigos 1’s arrived at Wiggle HQ. To say that I was excited at the prospect of riding one of these fantastic machines in my favourite sportive was an understatement.

I had arranged to meet up with the Wiggle guys at the Verenti stand at the start village less than 16 hours before the start of the ride. So I set off for Wales from my house on the edge of the New Forest on Saturday lunchtime full of anticipation.

My first Dragon Ride was in 2007 and I have started every ride since. However last years event counts as my worst day ever at a Sportive. I should point out that this had nothing to do with the event or the wonderful organisation, but is entirely down to the fact that a mechanical issue with my bike forced me out of the event at the 9 mile mark, where I had to wait and watch most of the rest of the field pass waiting for the broom wagon to collect me (at least it was a nice day) This year was going to be different. This year I had the full support of Wiggle and a gleaming new Rhigos 1.

The Dragon Ride doesn’t get voted the country’s number 1 for nothing. There’s a real feel good feeling to the event. The weather forecast was unclear. The advice published was to bring waterproofs and sun cream. At the temporary Verenti HQ in a converted barn about 10 miles from Pencoed the excitement was beginning to mount. 2 tweaked Rhigos 3’s were eventually joined by my Rhigos 1, hand delivered by Wiggle’s very own Paul Bolwell. I attached some personal touches and I was ready for 190km’s in the Welsh hills.
Grey skies greeted us on Sunday morning, but they weren’t to last. By the time I lined up alongside Matt Page and Wiggle CEO Humphrey Cobald streaks of blue sky were already beginning to show. Matt, fresh from his national 24 hour MTB victory, looked all set to do the Verenti a lot more justice than I would. At 08:00 we were on our way.

I felt instantly comfortable on the Rhigos 1. This is no real shock as I have been riding the same frame for 3 months on the Rhigos 3, but the upgraded components that include a 3T finishing kit, Mavic Ksyrium wheels and full SRAM Red gives the Rhigos 1 that top end feel that make all the difference with 190km to travel.
I was soon climbing the Bwlch mountain for the first time. I realised that I hadn’t done enough hill training. This was a different experience and plenty of stronger riders began to pass me (never mind though, at least they were getting a good look at the bike). By the time I reached the first feed station I was in need of replenishment. I had at least achieved one goal though. I had ridden my Rhigos up the Rhigos (the bike takes it’s name from the challenging climb).

At the bottom of the Rhigos it’s decision time. Left for the Medio or right for the 190km Grand Fondo. Humphrey and I chose the latter and were soon among a group of similar standard riders chewing up the miles as we entered into the Brecon National Park. The stunning scenery was serving to numb the pain a little as we approached half way. At the next feed station we were caught by, Team Wiggle rider, Ben Simmons on his way to the fastest time of the day.

We soon rejoined the medio course and were part of a 20 rider group riding through and off, at a good pace, towards the next climb at Cimla. After a short stop at the last feed station we ascended the Bwlch for a second time. This is the longest climb of the route and with 85 miles already in the legs it’s a real killer. I was glad to see the summit, but we still had 20 miles left. One last effort into a cruel headwind in the last 10km and the finishing banners came into view.

190km with over 3000m of climbing is a great challenge. The weather was kind to us (except for the strong head wind in places). It felt great to have completed the challenge. Next year’s goal is to try to get a little closer to Ben.

17

Wiggle Super Series Jurassic Beast

With just about every other Wiggle representative at the fantastic Enduro 6 on Sunday 2nd May, I chose to stick to my preferred discipline and ride the Wiggle Super Series Jurassic Beast sportive, which started and finished at the Bovington Tank Museum.

For the 3rd weekend in a row, the UKcyclingevents team were out in force to welcome the competitors as they arrived early for what looked as though it could be a tough challenge ahead. Unlike the New Forest Spring Sportive a fortnight before, the weather looked poor. Although the rain had not arrived at the start line, there appeared very little prospect of it not making an appearance at some point. This coupled with a strong wind and a hilly course were instrumental in my decision to ride the standard 66 mile distance rather than the 100 mile epic route.

Electronic timing is a regular feature in these events now and a timing strip was attached to the helmet of every competitor at the registration desk. As I walked back to my car to attach my race number and prepare my Verenti Rhigos 3 for the “off” I was in two minds trying to decide whether to wear my waterproof jacket or opt for the gillet. In the end I figured that once you’re wet, you’re wet and went for the gillet.
I was in the first wave of riders to leave the start and was soon into my stride as we climbed out of Bovington. The course split came a mere 10 minutes into the ride so it was easy not to get carried away with delusions of grandeur. Unfortunately, for me doing the standard route, this meant I was suddenly very alone. I covered the first half an hour at a brisk pace and the gold standard time of 17mph looked very much within my grasp. I began to slightly regret only doing the standard route. I was asking myself if I could claim to have ridden the “beast” if I’d shied away from 34 miles of it.

My regret soon subsided however as I came into West Lulworth. The route had suddenly become very lumpy! The next 20 miles were very familiar to me. I had been stuck in a hotel in the Purbecks the week before last year’s etape du tour and I had used the challenging terrain to sharpen up my fitness before tackling Mont Ventoux. Last July though was warm and sunny. Today was wet, cold and windy and not much fun. As I climbed through the army tank ranges that were littered with old armoured vehicles with only sheep for company, I decided that this experience was “character building” and that somewhere in the not too distant future I would benefit from this workout.

I descended into the village of Corfe with its ruined castle sitting on top of the hill. Suddenly my path was halted by a farmer driving a herd of cows across the road between fields. This start/stop nature would become a feature of the next hour. By now the rain had turned to a fine mist, but the wind was still strong and generally in my face. As I wound my way around twisty lanes and short sharp climbs and descents I longed for the sunny, flat New Forest of two weeks previous. This rhythm snapping terrain had dropped my average speed below my 17mph target, were my golden aspirations being washed away with the rain?
I passed Corfe Castle again and pressed on towards the top of Creech hill. By the time I crested the summit I was well off the pace. I had about 20 miles left to ride and I was determined to turn it round. Luckily for me the next 3-4 miles were largely down hill and began to claw back some lost time.

As the terrain flattened out my rhythm returned and so did my morale. Although the ferocious head wind felt like someone was applying my breaks I was back in the “grove”. I was thankful to see those, now familiar, orange Wiggle banners and the red arch as the finish came into view. I crossed the line in “bits”. My average heart rate was well into the zone usually saved for huge efforts, but I elated with my time and that all important Gold standard. I was very pleased to be the first rider to cross the line, although I knew that there would be a few riders who had started after me who would have faster times.

The Jurassic Beast is what it says on the tin. If you enter an event called the Beast then I guess that you should expect a challenge. When coupled with nasty weather the challenge increases, but that’s what I came for. Dorset, especially the Purbecks, is a wonderful place to ride a bike. It’s not for the faint hearted, but the faint hearted don’t usually ride bikes do they?

Once again Martin and his crew from UKcycling events produced a fantastic event. Well organised, well sign posted and well executed. I enjoyed my free cup of tea and could have had a post race massage. I opted for a quick change to warm up and then met up with Mrs Carter and the little ones for a tour of the tank museum. All in all a wonderful day out, that was made even better upon discovering that I had recorded a top 3 finish. . I’ll definitely be back next year, perhaps for the epic.

17

Ford S-Max Advert

It seems a long time ago now that I got the call from Malcolm Holmes at Calshot asking if i’d be prepared to ride round the veledrome while someone took photos for an advert. But this week the finished article finally dropped into my inbox.

On a very cold February morning I met up with 3 other Wiggle riders. Ben Simmons, Rich Pearman and Paul Bolwell at the Calshot Activity Centre home of one of the county’s 3 indoor cycle tracks. The thing about Calshot is that, in Winter, the temperature is always 10 degrees lower inside than out. Ice really does form on the inside of the roof (and has been known to melt causing indoor rain). That February morning was no exception. It was freezing!

The guys from Wiggle had brought along a selection of fine cycling apparel. dhb shorts with either Castelli or Campagnolo tops. We met up with the photo crew and Malc and began to tuck into the coffee and biscuits provided (we needed to keep warm!) Like the good athletes we are, we turned down the bacon sarnies that were sent out for by the crew and opted for a ride round the track to warm up.

The camera crew were shooting an advert for the new Ford S-Max and needed some sporty shots to go with the image required of the car! They soon had some pretty flash looking gadgets rigged up and we began rolling round trying to look the “part”.

Paul, Rich and Myself had spent a few sessions at the track during the Winter and Ben is a national champion so we were soon up to speed and looking pretty impressive. Or so we thought. The trouble was that the camera guys needed us to look like we were going fast, but not actually go fast! Sounds like my sort of gig I thought. The reality wasn’t that easy. Anyone who has ridden on a veledrome can appreciate that speed is what keeps you upright (or centrifugal force if you’re splitting hairs). Trying to go at minimum speed on the steepest part of the track is not an option.

The camera crew de-camped and the process began again. We waited around whilst the experts had a re-think. Keeping warm had become the issue, but we were soon back on the track. The next hurdle to overcome was colour. We were all wrapped up in black leg warmers. The picture would not look good against the background with black leg warmers. They had to go! Now we were cold. Or we thought we were. We then realised that we were wearing black gloves. Yep you’ve guessed it, they had to go too. So now we were riding around a freezing cold veledrome in February in shorts and no gloves! Soon though the camera crew had the shots they were after. \ it was a “wrap”!

The advert will begin to appear in May to coincide with the launch of the new model. The finished article looks amazing! There is some good placement in there for Focus bikes and dhb, which is a fantastic bonus. Ben looks like the champion he is on the front with the rest of us tucked in like a well drilled pursuit squad. I’d like to say that we rode round the track like that, but I’d be lying. They managed to get good individual shots of us and use their box of tricks to do the rest.

We all had a good morning being models. Wiggle provided some great kit to make the experience even more enjoyable. I’m sure that I’ll bore Mrs Carter to death pointing out the advert every time we see it, but they say everyone must have their 15 minutes of stardom and this could well be mine.

I must end by thanking my good friend Malcolm Holmes without whom we would never have got the opportunity to do this and obviously once again to Wiggle for providing the dhb, Castelli and Campagnolo clothing and the Focus Pista track bike.

Look out for the advert, it looks fantastic!

16

New Forest Wiggle Super Series Event

Apologies for this Blog being about a week late, but I was keen to ratify my first result of the season. On 18th April I lined up with over 1000 others at the New Forest Wiggle super series event. A wonderful day had dawned as I parked my car at Brokenhurst College. I had been confident of posting a reasonable time right up to 2 days before the event, until I had began to feel a little “under the weather” (I’m not sure how you can be under the weather, but that’s how Mrs Carter diagnosed my symptoms). Fortunately, by the day of the race, I had climbed back above the weather and was raring to go.

Dressed in my new Team Wiggle kit and armed with my Rhigos 3, I was drawing plenty of attention. A fair few fellow competitors were taking the time to ask about the Verenti brand. The Wiggle guys were putting the final touches to the display stand and the whole place was awash with orange. It was time for the talking, the blogging and the testing to stop and actually do what I had spent the last 4 months preparing for and get out there and ride my bike.

When I’d ridden the course 3 weeks earlier the weather was foul. This morning however it was glorious, albeit a little chilly in the early stages making clothing selection tricky. I was soon in to my rhythm and was fortunate to find a bunch riding at an acceptable pace. The first 25 miles seemed to pass by very quickly. A mixture of bunch riding and some solo stuff too.

Everyone appeared in great spirits and the New Forest stunning scenery was an amazing backdrop. By the time I reached the first feed station I’d been riding for about 2 hours. It was here that I began to realise that my average speed was more than a little respectable and I knew that I’d covered a fair bit of the challenging terrain. I started to harbour aspirations of a Gold time finish. The 3rd hour I pretty much spent alone. I knew that this part of the course could be covered at a pace and although I would have preferred some assistance in pace setting I was more than happy with how thing were unfolding.

3 hours down and the Gold was still on! I got into another large group near Sway and stayed with them for 45 minutes or so until Beaulieu. By the time we reached Norleywood cross roads our group had whittled down to 3. With only 8 miles to go I was starting to tire, but knew the Gold was well within reach. The finish into Brockenhurst was fast and furious as the Epic and Standard routes re-joined. I got through the tricky traffic at the finish as the Orange banners welcomed me home. My 4:20 time had taken me well inside the Gold standard. I was elated as I stood at the finish to cheer on my fellow competitors.

What a fabulous day. Yes the weather helped, but the slick organisation and clearly marked routes was the key to the success of this ride. The event sold out a few weeks before the start this year. My prediction is that it will sell out much quicker next year to you’ll need to be on the ball with your entry for 2011 be warned!
The Rhigos 3 was all that I now know it would be. It climbed well and was fast when it needed to be. It was comfortable and looked good!

As for me, I am glad that my season is up and running. My training has gone well and I had hoped that I could achieve a good standard in my first official outing as a Verenti rider. I’m looking forward to this weeks event, starting from the Bovington Tank Museum. Perhaps I’ll see you there?

Rich

15

Season Has Well & Truly “Kicked Off”

Well what a great couple of weeks it’s been for cycling fans. The season has well and truly “kicked off” now. First up was Tour of Flanders. Having ridden the public race the day before, I was ready to see how the pro guys did it 24 hours later. I managed to park quite close to the circuit but I did not appear to be in a great location for watching the race. I wanted to be where the action was. I knew I had no chance of getting onto the Kappelmuur as I had been told that thousands of people would be wrestling for a vantage point at such an iconic location.

Back at my hotel room that morning I had studied the route and tried to pick a point that might produce a decisive move. I had settled for the Molenburg climb about 45km from the finish in Ninove. After parking my car, I decided that the best mode of transport was going to be my Verenti Rhigos 3. Although I had managed to wash it down after the previous days excursions, it was still looking a bit sorry for itself, but no matter I pressed on. I was soon at a point where the race would pass, albeit in a couple of hours time. I asked a knowledgeable looking gent (also with his bike) where and how far away was the Molenburg climb.

Luckily it was a mere 4km away and even luckier the gentlemen was heading there to meet his pals to watch the race unfold from a local café. I naturally tagged along. His English was not great, but a damn sight better than my Flemish. Soon I was stood on the cheeky little climb, Molenburg. I was set for a good day that got even better when my guide offered to take me to the café where he was meeting his friends. I locked the Rhigos to a rail and followed my new friend on foot.

Inside the café was bedlam. You couldn’t move, but you could see a little television high in one corner where the peloton where hammering away towards us. I have watched enough racing on Belgian Internet sites to understand the graphics of what was going on. I could have indulged, like many of my fellow spectators, in the local beer, but I was driving to the ferry port directly after the race and that beer is strong stuff I can tell you.

Soon it was time to head out back to watch the race. I managed to push my way back to the place where my bike was and then I could hear the ever-increasing roar of the knowledgeable, appreciative crowd as the leaders approached. As the riders passed me, the look on their faces was a picture of pure hell. I caught a brief glimpse of Tom Boonen and then Dave Millar, who looked in immense pain. Having watched a replay of the race a few hours later in the comfort of my own living room (Mrs Carter was away for the weekend so I wasn’t upsetting anyone, watching the cycling for a change!) I know that about 500m down from where I was standing, Fabian Cancellara blew the race apart with a stunning attack. Only Tom Boonen, in supreme form himself, was really able to stay with him. 20km later on the Kappelmuur, Cancellara attacked Boonen again, this time the elastic snapped and Spartacus was able to ride alone to this finish, unchallenged for his first Tour of Flanders win.

Cancelarra is quite simply, Awesome! He has such strength that he is able to inflict pain on the rest of the field at will and does this with devastating effect. A week later and I was back in the living room watching the Paris-Roubaix classic. Some say that Paris-Roubaix is the classic. I can see the point, but I don’t agree. I believe that there are only a very few riders at Roubaix that have a chance of winning, where as at Flanders there are more challengers in with a shot at victory.

This opinion wouldn’t worry Cancellara however, as he won both races in the same devastating style. I happen to think that he hasn’t stopped there either. I would not be surprised to see him win at any of the Ardennes classics that begin soon! Let’s see if I’m right eh? (I’m quite often wrong by the way so don’t wager any of your hard earned cash on my tips!)

Back to my own preparation for the season. Although not announced officially yet I am 40! There you go I’ve said it. Apparently that’s half of the therapy over. After a few days of celebrating this milestone I’m currently staying at a health spa with Mrs Carter, who has brought me here as a gift for my birthday. I rode the 55 miles to get here. Again on the Rhigos, which I am absolutely loving. Mrs Carter found it difficult to select somewhere that met both my training desires and my “high maintenance” accommodation standards, but she has really hit the spot.

They are catering for my every need and I am just back from a 3 hour “hilly” ride. The Rhigos climbs exceptionally well. It is stiff and responsive and supremely comfortable. There were a couple of 15 minute climbs on my ride and I did not struggle. I just found a rhythm and the bike responded perfectly. I’m really looking forward to riding it this Sunday at the Wiggle Super Series New Forest sportive. The weather looks OK at this point so I’m predicting a really good day for all.

Hopefully I’ll see a few of you there.

Rich

14

The Ronde van Vlaaanderen

Well what better way to test the Verenti Rhigos 3 than to ride it in one of the toughest sportives there is?

The Ronde van Vlaaanderen or Tour of Flanders is one of the toughest one-day classics in the pro tour calendar. It’s a mix of windswept open planes and short sharp steep cobbled climbs.

There are flat cobbled sections too and these really separate the “hard men” of cycling from the crystal cranking “lightweights” The winners list of this legendary race reads like a who’s who of your favourite tough riders. From Merckx to Boonen with a bit of Museeuw in between. On the day before the race, the organisers very kindly allow 20,000 or so amateurs to take to the roads around Flanders to experience a little of what the pro peloton will endure 24 hours later.

And so it was that I found myself with my newly assembled Rhigos 3 in Ninove with a 150km ride in front of me. The weather was appalling. The wet conditions were certainly going to make the cobbled sections “challenging”. I met up with 2 other Rich’s from Wiggle and we set off at a steady pace. The Rhigos 3 is a true Sportive specific machine. The head tube is striking and much larger than any bike I’ve ridden before. This makes for a very comfortable riding position and from the start I had the feeling that this was a bike that I could ride all day.

The weather was beginning to get worse so riding all day was starting to become a possibility. We covered the first 10 miles very swiftly, nothing too demanding in the way of terrain to conquer. I was very impressed with the way that the Rhigos, as well as being extremely comfortable, was also very responsive. When I needed to put a bit more power through the pedals it was transferred to the road very quickly. This was giving me oodles of confidence.

Then we hit the first cobbled sections. I had never ridden a surface like this before. Immediately it felt as though I was riding through the fast spin cycle of Mrs Carter’s washing machine. “You need to relax a little more,” said Rich. He was right, when we reached the next section of cobbles I managed to ride with my hands on the top of the handlebars and at least this time I could see where I was going. I was now beginning to really enjoy this experience.

The Rhigos 3 was coping with these stones wonderfully. The SRAM Rival groupset changed efficiently and smoothly. It needed too at this point. As the ride enters its second half, the short sharp and often cobbled climbs arrive at regular frequency. In my opinion, this is where the Rhigos was at its best. Weather you’re in the saddle or stomping on the pedals the bike really responds. Yet again this was giving me plenty of confidence to push harder and I was soon standing at the top of the iconic Muur-Kapelmuur climb, riding in the wheel tracks of my cycling heroes.

With 20km to go we reached the final cobbled climb the “Bossberg”. I gave it one last effort and managed to climb really well and crested the top feeling a “million dollars”. The rain soaking through to my skin couldn’t dampen my spirits. The route back to Ninove was flat and fast. Head down and in the biggest gear I could manage, I was flying. Suddenly we were looking at the finishing straight and after one final sprint for the line our day was complete.

The Ronde van Vlaanderen is a wonderful race and to get the chance to experience it for real enhances the enjoyment of watching the race ten fold. You can really understand the pain and suffering the professionals are going through. The Verenti Rhigos withheld any amount of abuse I could put it through. Some of the terrain is worse than a cyclocross race and the bike just kept on delivering. I’m genuinely impressed with it and am already clocking the miles up.

Rich

13

Reconnaissance Ride

Last week I got a phone call from a friend, who is training for the Lanzarote Ironman in May, asking if I’d be available for a long ride at the start of this week. As it happened I was and, even more of a co-incidence, I was planning a reconnaissance ride of the Wiggle Super Series New Forest Ride.
The forecast wasn’t great, and if I were honest, if I’d been riding alone I probably wouldn’t have gone. However in the Event waterproof jacket dhb have created a masterpiece in wet weather clothing and as I set off to meet my pal I felt well equipped for whatever the elements had in store for me.

We were soon at Brockenhurst, which is where the New Forest Spring Sportive starts on 18th April. Heading out from there towards the very picturesque Ornamental Drive we were very aware that this would be a tough day. The strong south-westerly wind that was bringing the torrential rain for later was in our face and making the overall speed slower than we would have liked. The fantastic scenery along this stretch is a wonderful start to the ride and soon we were climbing the first hill at Bolderwood. Over the top and across heath land where this time that strong wind was behind us, speed was back up to a respectable pace and our moods lifted. I’ve been riding in the New Forest for many years so I’m well used to looking out for it’s four legged residents. If you are riding there for the first time it’s worth bearing in mind that the Ponies will not respect the fact that cyclists with a tail wind can be travelling in the region of 30 miles an hour and will step out onto the road without a care so be careful.

We were now racking up the miles. Apart from the hill on the Ornamental Drive the first 20-25 miles of the ride are flat, however all that changes just past Nomandsland where a steady incline starts to kick in as you approach Redlynch, through Hamptworth. Here the roads are more technical and challenging. Certainly as you pass through the pretty villages of Woodgreen and Hale the roads can be described as “rolling” and our average speed definitely slowed. The pleasant surprise for us at this point was that there was still no rain and the roads were dry. As we headed back towards Bramshaw we were back into that wind and heart rates elevated, we were glad to turn back on ourselves after a couple of miles and head back towards Godshill.

Just past Godshill is the legendary Blissford Hill. It’s not a long hill but it is steep. I had a 39/26 on so I was OK with the gradient, but Ian was riding the bike he will ride in Lanzarote and his 39/24 made the Blissford “wall” a real challenge. The pain is over quickly and soon the route is heading towards Linwood. The next 20 miles are definitely flat as you pass over the busy A-31 and head towards Bransgore. Unfortunately for us we still had to contend with the headwind that has plagued us for most of the day and although the miles rattled by we were beginning to feel the effects of our efforts. Out of Bransgore there is a climb to Thorney Hill. Not a steep climb, but it does last for a couple of miles. After Thorney Hill the route heads towards the large village of Burley. We stopped briefly to replenish water bottles for the rest of the route. 4 miles from Burley is judgement point. If you’re doing the short route you will go straight on to complete the 4-5 miles to Brokenhurst. If you’re feeling good then you’ll want to go for the long route option and turn right towards Bashley. Not long after the right turn the heavens opened. The forecasted rain had arrived, fortunately for us, a couple of hours late.

I was now very thankful for my dhb eVent jacket as I watched the beads of water run off and fall to the ground. Nothing gets through this jacket. I’d had it on all day, but now it was doing its job and the Monsoon wasn’t bothering me! The route through Sway and Piley is “lumpy” and I struggled for rhythm, but as we turned towards East End and through to Beaulieu the road flattens again and the pace can be picked up. A sharp turn at Beaulieu and up the hill to Hatchets Pond is on a fairly busy road of the New Forest so care needs to be taken at this point. By the time you turn right at Norleywood crossroads you are back on quiet lanes and now into the final part of the ride. The route is again technical through Boldre and up towards Battramsley and the “twisting” nature of the lanes will slow the average pace. The rain stopped at this point briefly and as we headed back towards Brockenhurst. Even an untimely, but not entirely unexpected, puncture in Ian’s front wheel couldn’t suppress our sense of satisfaction and we headed home for well earned showers and hot drinks.

The Wiggle Super Series New Forest route is challenging. There is a fantastic mix of fast flat sections, sharp climbs and technical twisting roads. This is complemented by the wonderful scenery in a 900 year old national park where the roads are, by and large, quiet. If you haven’t yet entered then I strongly advise you to do so. If you’ve already entered then you’re in for a real treat. I’ll be there and am really looking forward to it.

Remember to watch out for the Ponies!

View All Wiggle Super Series Events

Rich

12

Highs & Lows

The last 2 weeks since my last blog has been a real mixture of highs and lows. The weather has been fantastic for riding and I’ve managed to take full advantage. I’ve covered plenty of miles in the New Forest, which is truly magical at this time of year. With my sportive season only a few weeks away “saddle time” has been my top priority. I’ve managed to get some 4 hour rides in, which were impossible earlier in the year and although many of these rides have been pretty lonely experiences they are going to have a positive benefit during the season.

At the start of last week I paid my regular visit to my nutritionist. Progress on this front up until now had been slow. However last week was different. A large drop in weight and waist measurement gave me a huge boost of confidence. I had worked really hard on sticking to my plan and it was great to see the results. I left Surrey in high spirits. I was still on a high as I arrived at the swimming pool later that evening for a session with the Southampton City Masters. I had only been in the pool a number of minutes when I managed to swim, on my back, head long into the wall.

Yes I know it’s a stupid thing to do. Many people have been quick to offer advice on how to avoid a re-occurrence. Anyhow, I spent the next 4 hours in Southampton A+E and ended up with 4 stitches in the top of my head. The pain was minuscule when compared to my embarrassment. And no! I will not be swimming in my Catlike Whisper next week!!

Prior to my visit to the nutritionist I had decided that perhaps I needed a little more assistance with my training. I’ve mentioned before that I had managed to introduce some structure to training this year, but I felt I needed more. I had spotted an advert for a mobile lab testing opportunity in a cycle magazine, so I contacted the company. I eventually arranged to meet Helen Carter (curiously the same name as my sister- but not actually my sister) from PBScience and her mobile lab at Fleet services at the end of last week.

Helen put me through 2 tests inside the lab (which is a converted camper van like the ones you see on the side of the road at the Tour de France). A ramp test to establish my lactate threshold was followed by a Vo2 max test to establish my efficiency. The tests revealed that I am not an elite athlete. I did already know that, but now I have it in writing. What the tests have provided is a solid base from which Helen has been able to produce a training schedule for me that has a specific goal for each session all centred around the ultimate goal of producing an inspirational performance at the Marmotte sportive in July. Having a coach written training plan represents the final piece of the jigsaw for me as I attempt to make sure that 2010 is a season to remember.

The help I’m getting from Wiggle and Verenti bikes is already making this season something to savour and when I received my very own set of lights from Exposure I was thrilled.

I have the Toro and Joystick for pointing forwards, teamed with the redeye and the redeye micro which make me very visible from the rear.

Having such an extreme quality product like the Exposure lights have unlocked a new training slot in my day too. I have been able to extend a number of training rides into the darkness and have felt safe doing so.

Pro Tour races have been like buses this last couple of weeks. You wait all winter to watch to watch a stage race and then two come along at the same time. Luckily Sky+ has meant that I can watch both Tirreno-Adriatico and Paris-Nice (Although Mrs Carter has failed to share my excitement).

At Paris-Nice Alberto Contador looked in ominous form. The way he skipped away from the field at the steepest part of the race showed that he will be, once again, the man to beat in the longer stage races. Anyone beating him in July will surely win the Tour de France, but I can’t see past the Spaniard. He looks set to dominate the maillot jaune for many years to come. Whilst I enjoy watching Contador, especially in the high mountains, I do think that it’s a shame that he will only be able to use his skills to dominate the long stage races. Gone are the days when a rider was just as much in contention at Liege-Bastogne-Liege as he was in the Giro for instance. Cadel Evans, and perhaps Andy Schleck have the skills, but unless Contador picks up an injury I can’t see any rider pulling off a Grand Tour-Classics (single day) double off anytime soon. This has made me ponder who the last rider to do this was? Perhaps you can tell me?

At the time of writing I’m 3 weeks away from my 40th Birthday. I’ll get at least one more blog in, whilst I’m still in my 30’s. In the mean time ride safe.

Rich