English
4th October 2009
Welsh Cyclo-Cross Series Round 1
The first round of the Welsh Cyclo-cross series kicked off on my birthday weekend in a small local village called Goytre. As you can imagine your never going to be feeling on top form when it’s your birthday weekend but with the sun shining and a great atmosphere at the venue made for a very relaxed enjoyable race.
After almost missing the start because I was too busy chatting, we were off and I was off to a bad start because I couldn’t clip in quick enough. But I soon put down the power and joined the leaders before completing the first lap. Eventually there was a group of four riders who had a clear advantage over the rest and with each of us trying to attack one another made for a rapid race and I was on the limit all the way round.
I had good support all the way round that was very encouraging and as the laps were counting down and each of us closing down attacks I knew it was going to come down to the last lap. The first half of the lap we were all watching each other and then a strong attack saw just three of us in the mix for the win. On the last climb before the finish I moved up in to second position and with only a few corners to go I didn’t have the legs or time to come around the eventual winner and had to settle for second place.
I was pleased with my performance especially as my preparation was not the best but we all have to have a break and enjoy ourselves some times. This race is good preparation for the following weekend where I’m travelling to Derby for the second round of the National Trophy Cyclo-cross series.
Ben