Andy from Team Cycling Plus joined Simon & Geoff the Verenti Kilo To Go Event Organisers for a total soaking to pre-ride The Verenti Rut sportive (Rutland, 3rd October). Lots of rain, green fileds and quiet roads. Roll-on the Indian summer! Here’s a sneaky peak of some of the route and the rain they enjoyed that day. Did I mention it was wet?

It has now been just over 5 months since we took delivery of our Verenti Millooks, and started our transformation into road cyclists. At first it was all about getting used to the bikes, the gears and the clip in pedals. We cycled mainly on flattish roads, or rolling hills for the first 4 to 6 weeks, building up from around 20 miles to 40 miles over this time.

We figured some things out very quickly such as the importance of a good chamois in our cycling tights. We found that our fitness levels increased rapidly, and over 3-4 weeks the time taken to cycle known routes could be decreased quite markedly. I (Nic) also had a shorter stem fitted as I was struggling to comfortably reach the brakes.

By April it was fair to say that we had been bitten well and truly by the cycling bug. It was time to put more thought into our training and start to set some targets. We have been using the Garmin Edge 500 to monitor heart rates and cadence, enabling us to know which heart rate zones we were training in. This is an area which we find easier to understand as physiology was part of our undergraduate training- training horses and cyclists is not that different it seems! As the distances and hills have increased I have also had to pay more attention to diet both pre and during rides, although at first drinking and eating whilst cycling and not losing balance and falling off was enough of a challenge.

The first major target we set ourselves was a 50 mile sportive- Squires and Spires in Northamptonshire. Having worked behind the scenes at the Verenti Cheshire Cat (organised by KILO TO GO) we had a bit of an idea what to expect, however what we did not expect at the start of May was such cold and windy weather! We cycled in every bit of clothing we had brought with us! Cycling with so many other cyclists around us was unnerving at first, but we soon got used to that. The cycling was surprisingly hilly, but with lovely scenery and villages to enjoy in a part of the country we would otherwise never have visited.

The next major target was a 75 mile sportive (Roses Round) in Lancashire and Yorkshire in mid June. To some extent choosing sportives has been based around available weekends rather than ideal distances and ascents. It turned out the ascent on this sportive was much more than we had calculated from putting the route in the sat map, nearer to 2000, than 1000m. We did manage to finish though, and we were not even the last! We are finding that the challenge of cycling longer and longer distances is a mental one as much as a physical one. There is also the challenge of finding the hours needed for longer rides, as we are both busy vets with nights and weekends on call.

When we started the challenge back in March, the idea was to go from zero to 100 miles in a season; in June we decided that our 100 mile ride would be the Stoke on Trent stage of the Tour of Britain at the end of September, which is over the actual route ridden by the professional riders on the tour. Initially I thought this would not be too hilly being near Stoke, but once the route was published I could see there was approximately 2500m of ascent as the route goes into the Peak District, so we had actually picked a pretty hard sportive for our ultimate challenge. We live pretty close to some of the hillier Peak District parts of the route, so we have been able to use these in training. We have no other specific sportives organised over the summer, but have spent time in Cornwall training on the Cornwall Tor route and in the surrounding area. We have also ridden the route for the Verenti Wild Edric sportive which is the first weekend in September. The main focus of the training is to do successively longer rides on weekends in the weeks leading up to the 100 mile route, with 2 or 3 shorter 2-3 hour rides in the week if time allows.

We are currently in the Black forest area of south west Germany to do some more riding/ holidaying. We are in good company as this is where team T Mobile have done some of their training. The cycling and scenery is fantastic, although some of the ascents are incredibly long, many over 10 miles.

We have quite a following on facebook now, which is great as people have lots of tips and helpful advice for us. I have even found myself browsing cycle magazines in the magazine aisle at the supermarket! All in all looking back over the last few months we are really pleased with how we have progressed so far.

Join Simon Thompson, Verenti Kilo To Go Events Organiser with Gareth & Nic from Team Kilo To Go while they put themselves and their Verenti Millooks to the test in the beautiful scenic countryside of Shropshire as they preview the Wild Edric sportive.

To book your wild ride please visit Kilo To Go Book early to avoid disappointment!

Website: http://www.kilotogo.com/Wildedric

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With a leisurely 9am start and much revised route for 2010 set amid the suitably legendary countryside of Shropshire and the Welsh Marches, the Wild Edric is named after the local folk legend. For 2010 we make use of more open yet quiet roads. The area used for the Verenti Wild Edric is a real pleasure to cycle in – relatively traffic-free yet accessible from mainline rail and motorway.

For this year, we’ve taken a close look at the ride profile for this event. An easier route with 3 fantastic climbs (2 on the shorter route). We’ve mixed up some short climbs, brake free descents and rolling roads and spread them out across the Shropshire countryside. The views at the southern and northern ends of Long Mynd will have you reaching for your camera, once you’ve got your breath back from the climb! “Wild Edric” was a saxon Lord on a large scale, owning much of Shropshire.

He fought against William the Conqueror having allied with the Welsh princes of Gwynedd and Powys. He is also mentioned in the Domesday book. It is said that Wild Edric is not dead, but lives on, imprisoned around the West of Shropshire where he would spend days hunting around the Long Mynd, the Stiperstones and through the great Forest of Clun. All of which is in and around Verenti Wild Edric.

Ride the sportive of mysteries and folklore, and see if you meet the legend that is, Wild Edric!

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.

Media Release 7th June 2010

Verenti Dragon Ride 2010 is a fiery success story.

After what looked like the possibility of heavy rain at the 2010 Verenti Dragon Ride, the weather gods relented and the sun broke through to bathe the event in sunshine from start to finish on Sunday.

Former winner of Paris-Roubaix Magnus Backstedt and his Team Sprocket riders added some professional glamour as did former World Keirin and BMX Champion Jamie Staff who brought along his BMX Academy, but once again the real stars of the event were the public who rode in their thousands over the three course lengths of 190km, 130km and the new 40km, “corto” route.

The fastest time of the day over the 190km Grand Fondo course was set by Team Wiggle professional rider Ben Simmons with a stunning time of 5.40‟40”. He was followed in by a group of four riders led by Taylor Johnstone at 5.45‟45” and all separated by a mere two seconds. The best junior rider of the day was South Londoner Germain Burton with a fabulous 5.45‟47”!

“We have had a terrific event this year, I believe this has been the best yet in the history of the Dragon. All our supporters and sponsors have done a really wonderful job and we couldn‟t have asked for more from the public, their fighting spirit is inspirational,”

commented organiser Lou Lusardi of BreakAway Cycling,

“our partnership with Verenti has taken this event to a new level and we have great plans for the future.”

Also spotted toiling on what is one of the hardest but most rewarding of sportives in the UK were, Sky News Presenter Dermot Murnaghan, Cycleport.org roving reporter Howie Johnson and Cycling Weekly staffers Lionel Birnie and Simon Richardson.

Once again the Verenti Dragon Ride had its fair share of characters with at least one uni-cyclist entering and an almost as brave entrant riding fixed wheel, neither an easy prospect descending the Bwlch and the Rhigos Pass!

Work will begin on the 2011 Verenti Dragon Ride almost immediately, with further expansion of the start/finish village and some new and exciting additions to this well loved challenge ride.

www.verentidragonride.com

More Photos

Review from Cycling Active July 2010

Head to head, Cycling Active’s Tried and tested review rates two bike brands from two successful Internet retailers Wiggle & Chain Reaction.

The two bikes up for test were the Verenti Millook £1200 and the BeOne Blizzard £1399.99. We are very pleased to advise the Verenti Millook came out on top in Cycling Actives test. Read the Millook test below.

Online cycle superstore Wiggle launched its very own Kiron range in 2009 to general acclaim. The sportive-style machines caught the eye with attractive specs at a very reasonable price.