---

Race Report

---

The first race of the year was the Wakefield BKCAT crit. It was my very first crit race last year, and I struggled with cornering and riding so close to strangers. Unfortunately, my winter training didn’t go as planned, so this race was a test to evaluate my fitness level.

Luckily, more women signed up on the day, which meant more total points awarded. It was a cold and windy day, and anyone who could hear my heavy breathing has my apologies. Despite the weather, I enjoyed the technical aspects of this course, but I needed to remember how much the small hill could hurt closer to the end of the race.

There was a strong field of women, but unfortunately, I didn’t chase a breakaway, so I had to ride solo for most of the race. However, I’m thrilled to have placed 6th, which means I gained 4 points. Compared to last year, I felt more confident around the corners and enjoyed the 90-degree hairpin.

Before the race, I was nervous, but friendly faces welcomed me, making me feel at ease. Looking back, I felt great after the race, and I’m now eager for the next one. I hope to improve my performance in the next race and chase a breakaway.

---

Photo Credit – Gary Hibbert

Tudor Grange Circuit. The race was a struggle from start to finish and I came 16th. Yesterday, I wasn’t physically fresh enough to play with the best. I fell ill on Thursday and couldn’t fuel and hydrate sufficiently to race.

---

Photo Credit – Bernard Marsden

I participated in a circuit race at Darley Moor, and something strange happened. I felt strongly that a crash was about to occur during the race, so I decided to ease off and go wide and avoid it. Luckily, my intuition was correct, and nobody got hurt.

Overall, I was happy with my performance since I managed to maintain an excellent position throughout the race. However, I felt a bit frustrated during the final sprint to the finish line when a couple of lapped riders got in my way, affecting my final position. I believe I came in 12th place, which unfortunately means I didn’t gain any points.

---

Photo Credit – Bernard Marsden

On Saturday, the weather was cold and windy, with intermittent rain during the No Nonsense Circuit Race held at Wyke Community Sports Village, which is located in Bradford. The course was interesting, featuring a small selection of cobbles, many twisty turns, a long wide corner, and a long straight path with a slight incline. The strong crosswinds made it challenging for me as my deep-section wheels kept catching the wind and felt scary in some places. It reminded me of the importance of having core strength.

During the race, I spent two laps on the front, causing splits in the group. It was a headwind coming up the straight, and I tried to pull off the front. As we were coming out of the climb, three riders attacked, and unfortunately, I couldn’t quite bridge the gap on the breakaway. The chasing group couldn’t catch up with me, and I gained 20 seconds, which eventually increased to 55 seconds. I managed to secure a solo 4th place!

---

Photo Credit – Bobby Ath

I participated in my first Town Centre Crit Race but unfortunately had to take my first DNF (Did Not Finish). The Fakenham Town Centre circuit was quite technical, with a chicane of cobbles and corners. I enjoyed watching the men’s race and was excited to see Ben come 2nd! However, it started raining heavily afterwards.

During my race, I slipped off my bike on the white lines. I was glad that I did not cause any harm to anyone else, but it was a blow to my confidence. Although I could have continued the race after the fall, I decided not to race in the rain as I felt uncomfortable. My bike sustained minor damage, with only some scraped paintwork on the handlebars.

---

On Saturday, I took part in the first time trial of the year hosted by the Lindsey Roads Cycling Club. The event, set at Fonaby 1 Lap, was a challenging experience due to the windy conditions. However, it was also a valuable learning opportunity. I realised I had forgotten about my bruised arm from the crash, which unfortunately prevented me from entering the TT position. In hindsight, I should have made a more strategic equipment choice and opted for the road bike. Despite this, I managed to secure the fifth position overall and was the only lady in the competition. It served as an excellent warm-up for the road race I’m anticipating tomorrow.

---

I took part in the London Dynamo Spring Road Race on the Cublington course. Unfortunately, I found myself separated from the group during the neutral phase, a result of a couple of women colliding with me, one of them causing my chain to jam. This unexpected incident triggered a wave of panic, and my breathing and heart rate spiralled out of control. The thought of giving up crossed my mind, but I regained my composure after a brief pep talk with myself.

I had a well-planned fuelling strategy for the race. I carried a 750ml bottle of Voom Fusion Fuel, an energy drink containing 90 grams of carbohydrates, which I drank on the way to the race. I also had two 500ml bottles of Voom Fusion Fuel on my bike and two water bottles at the feed zone. Additionally, I carried four Voom Pocket Rockets Energy Bars, two Electro and two Caffeine Kick. Unfortunately, due to the strong crosswinds caused by storm Kathleen, I couldn’t let go of my handlebars to fuel up, a setback I had not anticipated.

The ride was quite lonely, and I finished in 34th place. However, I’m satisfied I used the ride as a training session. Fortunately, I didn’t cramp due to the little amount of fuelling I had. It was less stressful on my own as I didn’t have to fight the wind to point out potholes for other riders. I hope that the bumps at the start make me immune to panic… I think this was mainly a worry from the accident on the bike last week, and I was paranoid about damaging the bike or myself .

---

Photo Credit – Nicola Casburn

Last night was the first TLI race of the year at Ashby. I was consumed by nerves and kept questioning my preparation and practice, feeling like I hadn’t done enough. I couldn’t help but compare myself to last year. However, I felt incredibly proud when I finally crossed the finish line. The race was intense and gruelling, lasting for an hour, but I had forgotten how much I had relished the adrenaline rush of these races since last year. Now, I am eagerly looking forward to the next one.

---

Photo Credit – Ellen Isherwood

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of racing at Pimbo. Despite the heavy rain along the route, the weather cleared up as we got closer to Pimbo, and it was sunny and dry. The experience brought back fond memories of the GCN weekend from last year. Although the temperature was lower than last year, it was still a delight to catch up with my friends Ruth and Liv, even though we missed the rest of the group.

I enjoyed the 32-mile race. The peloton was shaken by a few attacks, but none succeeded. After all the efforts, it all came down to a bunch sprint, and I managed to finish in 7th place. However, I was disappointed with my sprint as I knew I had more to give, and with my lousy judgement of timing, I should have started the sprint earlier. Nonetheless, it was a valuable learning experience and a race that not only boosted my confidence but also inspired me to work harder and improve my sprint performance in the future.

---

The Super Hilly course of Lindsey Roads Cycling Club is my absolute favourite. The photo I used is from last year’s race. It was nice and sunny, but unfortunately, the wind wasn’t in our favour. We had to deal with either a cross or a headwind. Depending on the weather conditions for this course next time, I might use my road bike to compare times and efforts. The homemade cookies served after the race are an absolute treat and worth the effort.

---

Photo Credit – Bobby Ath

On Monday, the bank holiday, I participated in the Ixworth Town Centre crit race with the elites.  The atmosphere was electric, with the small square circuit packed with cheering crowds. Thankfully, the weather held up, which helped me regain some confidence I had lost from coming off the bike in the rain. 

Although I got lapped three times, I made sure to stay on the right-hand side, out of the way of the experienced riders. It was an incredible experience to race with the elites, and I used the opportunity to learn from them. I tried to keep up with their fast-paced cornering and sprinting efforts as much as possible. All in all, it was an excellent learning experience for me.

---

Photo Credit – Mark Staples

I recently took on the Lindsey Roads Cycling Club time trial course C10/4 on my road bike out of curiosity. The course is known for being pan-flat and has a roundabout, which, fortunately, I didn’t have to stop for. However, because of the bike I was using, I added an extra two minutes to my time. Next time, I plan to use my time trial bike, but I do need to make some adjustments, such as changing the crank arm and aero bar position. 

---

Photo Credit – Nicola Casburn

Last year, I participated in this race for the first time as a TLI race, and I got dropped while climbing the hill. Later in the year, I participated in the same race and managed to hang on for six laps, showing my progress. I was apprehensive about this race today because I kept comparing myself to last year. Due to heavy rain, most roads were muddy, and we were all covered in mud just from the warmup. I was devastated when my chain dropped on the climb. Although I tried to put it back on quickly, my di2 rear mech wouldn’t change, so I had to pull out of the race. This setback, however, has only fueled my determination to improve. I am still evaluating my fitness level and have more time to train for the next Brattleby race.

---

Photo Credit – Gary Hibbert

Sometimes, it’s essential to challenge yourself and just throw yourself into the deep end. After feeling disappointed in my last race, I needed this. Last year, I supported the Loughborough Cycling Festival. I never thought I would participate in The Jose Gilbert Memorial Race this year, competing against talented E/1/2/3 women. The race was demanding, with multiple laps of a circuit, including a tough climb and a fast downhill with sharp corners. It helped me regain my confidence, and I finished the race with a smile on my face.

---

Photo Credit – Cycling Grandparents

I arrived at the time trial (TT) only to realise I had forgotten to bring my Garmin device. I managed to record my race using my watch, although I had to race it blind. My legs were still aching from the intense power race I had participated in the day before, a testament to the endurance required in our sport. They felt heavy as I set out on the 16.4-mile course. The sun held out, making it a lovely evening after all the rain before it started; however, the wind was not in my favour. I finished the course, setting a new women’s record in the process!

---

Photo Credit – Cavan Walker

The East Midlands Regional Road Championships, a National B race encompassing the West Midlands region, was a battleground for strong competitors all aiming for the top spot and trophy. I found myself struggling on the climb, and despite my best efforts to catch up, I lost the group again on the next lap, ultimately finishing last. However, the experience of the neutralised start was a silver lining, helping me to regain some of my lost confidence. It also served as a stark reminder of the need to work on my endurance, which is undeniably challenging while racing.

---

Photo Credit – Nicola Casburn

I had the opportunity to race on the local TLI Great Limber course. The course features a long drag called Sheila’s and includes part of the Fonaby Climb. Unfortunately, I was dropped at the top of the climb and watched as the group slowly pulled away. It was a challenging and lonely ride, but I’m content that I finished, even though I crossed the line last. I hope they use the same course next year, allowing me to race while being in better shape.

---

Photo Credit – Phil Carr

I had the fantastic opportunity to participate in the British National Criterium Championships at Darlington. A National A race. It was an exhilarating experience to race alongside some of the best cyclists. The rule was that riders would be pulled before being lapped. I pushed myself to the limit, trying to hang on for as long as possible. I vividly remember when I felt the elastic band effect snap on the hairpin bend. The crowds were incredible, and all of it was an unforgettable experience!

Photo Credit – Cycling Grandparents

There are no results worth celebrating tonight as I have another National race the following day. It was a pleasant evening, but the wind was not in our favour. Note to self: replace the time trial helmet since it’s too big for my head.

---

Photo Credit – Sarah Behind The Lens

Otley Gran Prix was an incredible experience! I competed against 120 talented women and secured 96th place. It’s a personal victory that I hold dear. The race was intense, with a few challenges like getting knocked into, having handlebars dig into my leg, and some fierce jostling for prime positioning. But what kept me going was the amazing crowd support. Despite the nerves and unexpected moments, I stayed focused and powered through. The fast course, the excellent crowd support, and the determination to improve have left me excited to return next year, even stronger and better prepared!

---

Photo Credit – Joe Hudson

My first local crit race was a valuable learning experience. The race location was conveniently just a 45-minute journey away. I started with the women’s 3/4 race, which unfortunately only had three participants, and none of the attacks were successful. I realised I shouldn’t have spent most of the race working at the front. After that, I immediately joined the men’s 3/4 race. In this race, I aimed to hold on as long as possible to do some speed work. However, the race course had numerous corners, so I had to stay in the top five to keep up with the pace, making it a quick race. Despite not being as successful, I could put in a reasonable effort independently.

---

Photo Credit – Chris Baker

It was my favourite time trial course, but to my surprise, it turned out to be my slowest time yet, despite feeling really strong. I managed to earn a crown and a couple of trophies on Strava. I suspect that finishing with plenty of energy left meant that I didn’t push myself hard enough. To ensure that everything was in top condition after a maintenance check by the Bakers, I decided to use the road bike this time. Interestingly, my fastest time was on a road bike, with the second-best time achieved on a TT bike.

---

Photo Credit – Paul Jones

I had some unfinished business with the Seacroft Wheelers Summer Road Race. Last year, I was doing well until I punctured out. I enjoy these races because of their high engagement level and the prizes they offer. The prospect of winning the trophy for the first 4th category rider to cross the line adds an extra layer of excitement, making it a must for new riders to participate.

During the race, there were a few close calls, serving as a stark reminder that cycling is indeed a contact sport. I was frustrated when a fellow rider veered out without checking her surroundings and collided with my spokes, luckily causing no harm. There were attempts from the group to break away from the pack, but none of them were successful, so it became a matter of settling in for a group sprint. As we got closer to the finish, it started to get bumpy with elbows out, and I focused on maintaining my position. After the last corner, I found myself boxed in. It felt like a long sprint to the finish line. However, I was thrilled to secure a 2nd place finish, a personal achievement I was proud of, and witness my friend come 1st place! This means I gained 12 points!

---

I had the incredible opportunity to race in the British Cycling National Masters Circuit Championships at Lee Valley VeloPark, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London. I enjoyed the circuit because it flowed fast, surrounded by green. However, it seemed enormous, making it difficult for supporters to get a close watch. It was a challenging 55 minutes filled with tactics and attacks against a strong field of women displaying their cleverness and experience. This year’s race was better planned compared to last year’s, with different coloured bib numbers, making it easier to follow a race within a race. I am thrilled to have emerged from the race with the National Jersey and Gold Medal!

---

Photo Credit – Charlotte Turnbull

TLI Ashby race is my favourite circuit so far. I felt tired all day leading up to it; I was due for my period and tried to stay hydrated throughout the day. The race started quickly, and I struggled to settle in and to keep taking my turn. I focused on conserving my energy and staying in the pack. It took me a lap to start feeling okay, and then, with each lap, I just felt surprised that I hadn’t been dropped. The group could have worked better together like last year, but we still covered 32 miles, averaging a speed of 24.4 mph. All the groups caught up within the last 500 meters, but I held back at that point because people were riding across the line and there was oncoming traffic. Although I felt rubbish, I was pleased with myself, and it was great preparation for the upcoming races.

---

Photo Credit – Darren Eggleston

Despite the fantastic turnout and my high spirits, this turned out to be my slowest time on my TT bike. It felt like the wind was against me from all angles. To top it off, a few of us had to ease off at the roundabout because we found ourselves stuck in front of an ambulance that was hesitating to move.

---

Photo Credit – John Armstrong

Wow, racing in a national event so close to home was an incredible experience! The support from the crowd was absolutely amazing, and hearing familiar voices cheering me on just made it even better. The circuit was so unique, with its short length of just over a kilometer and that challenging section of cobbles. It felt like my bike would shatter apart on those cobbles, but it was all part of the exhilarating experience.

I had told my friends not to expect a great result, as I was just racing for fun and the valuable experience. The elite women were incredibly strong, and I ended up getting dropped, but I found a group to work with. It was intense, and any lapped riders were to be pulled with three laps left, ensuring that the main group could sprint for the finish safely. I really hope they include Beverley in the race circuit for next year, it was an amazing experience!

---

Photo Credit – Rob Atkinson

I’m thrilled to have set a new women’s record! The two laps were perfect for me, although I usually thrive on longer distances. The open course made it even more challenging with little shelter from the wind.

---

Photo Credit – Chris Baker

The final C10/4 time trial of the year had a huge turnout with 28 riders. I’ll be honest, I felt lousy today. It was that time of the month, and I was struggling with the same old problem – it felt like I was pedalling hard and grinding, but my cadence (rpm) was high. Despite all that, I ended up 11 seconds off my best time.

---

Photo Credit – Chris Baker

The final TLI race at Brattleby was cut short to six laps because the nights drew in sooner. Unfortunately, I left my legs at home and got dropped on the first climb. However, I didn’t let that stop me, and I turned the rest of the race into a solo ride.

---

Photo Credit – Cycling Grandparents

The wind was relentless during the last Super Hilly time trial, making it impossible to escape its grasp. Despite not achieving a PB tonight, it felt good to be back on the bike after a brief hiatus, especially with the sun hanging low at the end. Only one more time trial left… the Hill Climb.

---

Photo Credit – Matt de-B

I was really looking forward to this one, as I had hyped it up so much, but on the day, I didn’t enjoy it. I felt like I left my legs at home.
It took me three hours to drive there, and unfortunately, I had no one to accompany me. I had to race with my car keys and mobile in my pocket.

My main priority was to stay in the top ten around the circuit and not lead for too long. Trying to keep my position was hard as I witnessed a few near misses on the straights and people cutting each other up on corners.
The roads were in bad condition, full of potholes and ‘Valley of Deaths’.
I felt strong sprinting out of the corners, but unfortunately, the elastic band snapped on the second to last lap. I thought we would catch them, but we got dropped. Looking back, I now realise that I was subconsciously holding back, always on edge as I dodged near misses and navigated through potholes.

---

Photo Credit – Darren Eggleston

---

Photo Credit – Bernard Marsden

---

Photo Credit – Bernard Marsden

---