The third round of the British series was already here-sun shining and not a cloud in sight; it was going to be a very hot race!
I have never raced at Hopton before but knowing that Shropshire has lots of hills, I was prepared for a tough course. Saturdays pre course inspection was good fun. The climbs weren’t as big as I anticipated and the single track descending back to the arena was awesome! I practiced a couple of starts just to get my legs working a bit more and ready for the next days race.
Staying hydrated was essential over the weekend; with little wind and hardly any clouds there was not a lot of shady places to sit. Due to the heat carb intake was slightly reduced for fuelling in the race.
Other preparations for the following day were made so I could spend the rest of the evening relaxing and focussing.
Race Day
The sun was beaming again in the morning; even at 6.30am it was very warm!! Breakfast eaten and kit on I was ready to get my groove on! My preparations I keep the same every time which helps me focus and ease my mind.
I was gridded 3rd so I was on the front line at the start. I was kindly allowed to wear my National skin suit for the race thanks to the commissaries; I felt privileged being able to wear it at a British round.
With 30s to go I could feel my nerves kicking in but not so much as they used to. When the gun fired I hit the pedals as hard as I could out of the saddle. I had an amazing start; in fact it was so good I lead everyone out of the arena. Until it hit the climb I slowed down a bit as Id idnt want to blow yet. A few other riders passed me, which I didn’t mind I just kept focussed on my race and how I wanted to ride it. My climbing is my weakest aspect so I really wanted to work hard and keep a good consistent pace going.
The first 2 laps I was in 6th , just off podium! I was feeling great and my mind so relaxed I kind of felt like I was flying. On to the 3rd lap I did start to tire but not a great deal. The only part that let me down was my gears; constantly changing whatever I changed them to so my pacing up the climbs was very inconsistent. More riders started to pass me; which was frustrating but there wasn’t a lot I could have done so I kept riding the best I could for the final 2 laps.
Descending down to the arena every lap was so fun I sometimes forgot I was racing. Me and my bike flowed around every corner, I truly felt great! The course was so fun I even enjoyed the climbs!!
I came in 11th, just off top 10 which was disappointing but I know in my mind what I am capable of.
Team mate Zephanie came in 5th; podium position before she flies back to USA L Well done to her. Joanne, myself and Natasha came in 10th, 11th & 12th so pretty good going there.
Final exams at Uni this week then I can ride my bike as much as I like! Next stop is Southern XC at Crow Hill, 3rd June.
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