Yet Another Cycling Forum
General Category => Freewheeling => Racing => Topic started by: rob on 25 November, 2015, 04:10:20 pm
-
I have had this in mind since completing the Sussex in 2014 and breaking myself quite badly in the process. I PB'd all distances this year and substantially improved my 12hr. I feel I have a load more in me for a 24 and have re-commenced training recently with this in mind.
I do find myself wavering a bit, though, so even if it is now 8 months away is anyone else in ?
-
Me.
Subject to the usual- traditionally on even-numbered years one of us has Major Health Issues and it is my turn next year. :facepalm:
Mr Smith is my Charlie Burton for the next 9 months.
I don't expect any Beryl-sized performances, mind.
We're building a bicycle made for speed and learning a whole new vocabulary of acronyms.
-
Probably not. Given the result of last year's BBAR, I'm probably going to concentrate on that next year. Since the Newbury and Breckland twelves are so far apart (June and September), I think that I'll probably have two bites at the twelve hour cherry. Then I'll have two hundreds: the national and the Anfield to qualify for the national, now I don't have a qualifying time from last year (after riding on the same course - bitter,much?!) All in all, that's enough long distance racing for one season.
-
My plan is also Newbury 12 and Mersey 24. Annoyingly this writes off the 2 100s I would like to do (ECCA and EDCA) so I think I'll do the Hounslow.
Anything later than the 24 will be a write off so I plan an Autumn of audax goodness.
Breckland 12hr is right near the in-laws place, so very handy, but may have to wait another year.
-
I will do it again. I did it this year just because I had a spare w/e and it seemed like a reasonable way to get some more miles in before PBP. It turned out to more more enjoyable than any audax ride I did this year so I will make it my main target for next year. It does mean that I will do some speed work this winter instead of just miles.
-
...Since the Newbury and Breckland twelves are so far apart (June and September)
Looking at this (http://www.timetriallingforum.co.uk/index.php?showtopic=101520) TTF thread they don't seem to be sure when the Breckland 12 is on. If the end of July as suggested, then it's likely to be the week after the Mersey 24, which would be a bit of a clash. (In the last two editions I rode it's been the first weekend in August, who knows? Anyway, a fast enough course to drop everything else for.)
The guy who says early September sounds the most believable. I hope it is anyway: it would leave ~10 weeks between the two fastest 12s, so I could ride an early banker in the Newbury and be ready to ride again for the Breckland.
Since you've ridden both, how much difference do you reckon there is between the courses?
-
Hoping to ride with McNasty after having to pull out with a bad first ever dose of Sciatica this year and not yet healed. Just back awheel last week after five months inactivity and a gain of five kilos so a bit of work to be done but plenty of time yet.
-
I am in two minds. I'd like to ride again and aim for over 400 miles unsupported. I'd also like to repay the kindness shown to me during my previous unsupported ride and to offer a proper neutral support (shelter, tea, hot soup, couple of chairs and camp beds) halfway along the night circuit.
-
...Since the Newbury and Breckland twelves are so far apart (June and September)
Looking at this (http://www.timetriallingforum.co.uk/index.php?showtopic=101520) TTF thread they don't seem to be sure when the Breckland 12 is on. If the end of July as suggested, then it's likely to be the week after the Mersey 24, which would be a bit of a clash. (In the last two editions I rode it's been the first weekend in August, who knows? Anyway, a fast enough course to drop everything else for.)
The guy who says early September sounds the most believable. I hope it is anyway: it would leave ~10 weeks between the two fastest 12s, so I could ride an early banker in the Newbury and be ready to ride again for the Breckland.
Since you've ridden both, how much difference do you reckon there is between the courses?
I know the question is directed at Oranj, but Topham said on the TT forum he thought the Breckland had an extra few (I think he said 3-4) miles in it. He said he'd pretty much always do the Newbury as it was closer to home. Not an issue for you mind you.
I PB'd on the EDCA 100 this year which uses the same stretch of the A11 and is pretty fast. The benefit of the Newbury is that finishing circuit just chops off the bottom end of the course, so you're on the same (DC) roads all day. It's easier for support that way.
-
How do you find these event dates? I looked at the ctt online calendar and it shows little beyond the end of the year.
-
How do you find these event dates? I looked at the ctt online calendar and it shows little beyond the end of the year.
Officially dates don't get published until the end of the year. They were on-line on the 31st Dec last year.
Some districts have put their provisional dates on their websites. It is a bit like Audax, though, organisers tend to keep the same weekends each year.
There's a 12hr and 100 thread on the TT forum.
-
I may change my planned 12hr as my support "team" is away that weekend, which opens the door for a couple of fast 100s instead. It does mean riding a 12hr 3-4 weeks after, though.
Back to the original topic, though. It's unlikely I will be able to visit the course before the race weekend, unless we have a family holiday that way. I've only ridden the 24hr in Sussex which was a little lumpy.
I've heard that the Mersey course is pretty flat (anyone ?), but the thing I notice is the really long night circuit. It will be getting on for 2hrs between seeing the support crew each time.
-
The Mersey course isn't entirely flat. The more serious support crews base themselves at the Espley roundabout for the night. It's halfway, so you see the rider twice and are never more than 10 miles from them. Prees Heath has a more 'Carnival' atmosphere.
-
Are there other events earlier in the year on the same roads?
-
I know it as Hodnet roundabout but it is a good place for supporters to base themselves at night (no nearby toilet though).
-
The Anfield 100 (http://www.mapmyride.com/gb/shawbury-eng/anfield-100-d100-2-start-finished-not-qu-route-100539469) uses the same roads as the main circuit on the MR24. The slowest, lumpiest bits of the Anfield - the bottom and right parts of its main loop - are the bits that the 24 doesn't use, choosing instead to go straight back up the A53. The little leg north of Espley, up to Market Drayton and back, is used on the 12 hour version of the course but not the 24, unless they've changed it since I last took notice.
ETA: The mersey isn't completely flat but it's faster than the Sussex course. If you do it, you'll probably see me as I need an early season 100 to get into the national on the Stockton course, now that CTT have decided that my previous ride on that course doesn't count for anything!
-
The mersey has approx half the climbing as the ESCA course (~2.5m/km vs ~5m/km)
I'll probably be unsupported this year, so will be asking advice on that closer to the date.
-
I think, realistically, I'm not going to get up there before the race itself although if I travel up Friday I can recce by car.
The benefit of the Sussex was I spent quite a few weekends riding the course in the months running up to it so knew it pretty well before race weekend. My supporters also lived nearby and knew the meeting points.
-
I'm definitely not fast/hardcore enough to try unsupported, so any hints and tips for Mr Smith & friends would be much appreciated.
-
I'm definitely not fast/hardcore enough to try unsupported, so any hints and tips for Mr Smith & friends would be much appreciated.
Including tips on how to run sideways at 20kph whilst holding out Nutella Sandwiches and a new bidon to a tired cyclist ???
-
I'm definitely not fast/hardcore enough to try unsupported, so any hints and tips for Mr Smith & friends would be much appreciated.
Not a full list, but :-
- Study the course in depth
- Write a schedule with expected number of laps on each circuit - contact the organiser for expected opening/closing times on each circuit
- Ensure your helper is in a useful layby where you can get out of traffic for hand-ups
- Practice hand-ups - I drop 1 or 2 bottles every event
- For me I make sure that helpers are stationed at a roundabout if I know I'm about to be turned so that they aren't waiting in a layby when I'm heading in the opposite direction. Some riders carry a phone.
- I see some supporters ensuring that they are at every x miles, but I prefer people to be at the same point on every circuit for simplicity.
- Feed on the bike - little and often - use a top-tube bag. I can carry enough calories for 3-4hrs so I leave feed bags to be collected at these intervals. I can handle sports food for 24hrs, but others prefer stopping for proper food.
- Be prepared for the fact you may not be where you planned to be. On the ESCA there was an accident on Saturday afternoon which blocked the main circuit and they sent me off the circuit early, but then made me do 4 circuits of the intermediate circuit. We knew it was happening so changed plans.
There's probably loads more.
-
I'm definitely not fast/hardcore enough to try unsupported, so any hints and tips for Mr Smith & friends would be much appreciated.
Including tips on how to run sideways at 20kph whilst holding out Nutella Sandwiches and a new bidon to a tired cyclist ???
Run alongside rider (forwards) - Bidon in right hand, holding the top of the bottle - Rider grabs bottom of bottle. Remember to let go.
I will be riding up and down the street trying to train my 9-yr old in the Spring.
-
To give you an idea, here's my (incomplete) planning doc from the Mersey 24 in 2013 (https://www.dropbox.com/s/7xmxtfvqvnp05rx/24h_plan.pdf?dl=0).
Here's my instructions to my helper for the RTTC 12 in 2015 (https://www.dropbox.com/s/sppmotqg9mqt6js/feeding_schedule.pdf?dl=0).
The Mersey is a simpler course than the ESCA: until you go to the finishing circuit, it's up and down the main leg plus some laps of the smaller Quina Brook circuit, all of which pass Prees.
24 hours is a long time for Mr S to be a lone helper, so you may want to find him a friend. I had two helpers on the Mersey 2013 and based them at Prees almost the whole time: we did one hand-up at Espley on the first leg south, then they stuck at Prees until it was time to go to the finishing circuit. With two of them, I could take on a fair amount of supplies so this worked.
On the 12 I had one helper, who based herself at Prees for the QB laps and Espley for the main laps. This also worked.
If Mr S is based at Prees, get him to hand up before the roundabout. Then if you miss the catch, he can run across the road and hand up on the other side.
[ETA one more: Do a dress rehearsal. Before this year's 12 I rode the first ~120 miles of my schedule at my planned heart rate, on the local 12 hour course, in full kit, taking food and drink when I planned to do it in the real thing. That showed me whether my schedule was realistic and whether I needed to alter my setup.]
-
I should be pretty righteously keto by July (all the mince pies long gone by then) so won't need the continuous feed in the same way as those who run off carbs.
Hopefully one of the advantages of having lots of offspring is that
I will be riding up and down the street trying to train my 17,19,21 & 23-yr olds in the Spring.
:D
24 hours is a long time for Mr S to be a lone helper, so you may want to find him a friend.
I'm sure they can't wait!
-
Not me next year! After a DNF last year and a DNS this year, I'm going to continue my trend and not enter at all this time round. I'm probably going to concentrate more on Audax / other long rides - but it is all subject to getting my neck sorted out (the reason for my DNS this year).
Depending on how life works out, I'm thinking of having a go in 2017. I've not broken 400 yet and I think I could just about get my club record if I have a decent shot at it.
In 2016 I hope to have a crack at at least one 12 and a couple of hundreds. It would be interesting to try the Breckland 12 if it is in September (but the Newbury one is just an hour away from me so that is the easy option). And the 100 up there is also tempting - as is the 100 in Wales.
Good luck to those who are going to ride. If it works out that I have a free weekend (which is probably not that likely) I'll come along and marshall, help, watch, etc.
-
Including tips on how to run sideways at 20kph whilst holding out Nutella Sandwiches and a new bidon to a tired cyclist ???
Strap sandwich to bidon with tape/elastic, hand up as rob says (preferably with food facing forwards e.g. away from cyclists hungry hand)
-
i've been nudged many times to give this a go, so might just do it in 2016. my only tt experience so far was one 10mile tt last winter. it will be a steep learning curve including bike fit, training, nutrition, getting suitable kit, planning, figuring out the ctt system..
ideally i'd need to spend a day or few with someone who knows the game and would like to share their wisdom. so - who do you know who could help me? :)
-
i've been nudged many times to give this a go, so might just do it in 2016. my only tt experience so far was one 10mile tt last winter. it will be a steep learning curve including bike fit, training, nutrition, getting suitable kit, planning, figuring out the ctt system..
ideally i'd need to spend a day or few with someone who knows the game and would like to share their wisdom. so - who do you know who could help me? :)
Would be delighted to help!
-
thank you Frank, i'll get in touch!
-
I scraped my way to 410 miles in the ESCA, but lost a lot of time in the 2nd half with numerous problems including an attack of Shermer neck for the last 2hrs
So, the Mersey is a bit flatter and I now have more experience of staying in the TT position. I have since improved my 12hr PB to 258 miles. I'm going to schedule for a bit more than last time and then see how I go. The club record is 463 miles, set in 1952.
-
Good luck, Rob. The record should be possible for you, but you'll have to earn it!
FWIW I reckon the mersey course is slower than Newbury. Maybe 10 miles over 12 hours.
My club record is 453 and I DNF'd in 2014 when I felt I was not likely to get it (and a few other things wnet wrong!)
-
My club has no ladies records. This makes targets very attainable ;)
-
Cheers, Frank
I'll treat this a bit like I did the Newbury 12hr last year. My PB was 230 miles so I scheduled for 240 with a stretch target of 250. The club record was 256.5 and it was only at about 8hrs that I thought I might get it. I set off not even thinking about the record and that's the way I'll treat the next 24, should I make it to the start line.
-
My club has no ladies records. This makes targets very attainable ;)
I may have a couple of Sandie Shaw's in the loft. Would they be any good to you. There could be some Kathryn Tickell in the charity shop, if you'd like me to look!?
-
My club has no ladies records. This makes targets very attainable ;)
I may have a couple of Sandie Shaw's in the loft. Would they be any good to you. There could be some Kathryn Tickell in the charity shop, if you'd like me to look!?
My parents had some singles from The Singing Nun; she seemed quite popular in the household :)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EO7cD6qmydo
-
To give you an idea, here's my (incomplete) planning doc from the Mersey 24 in 2013 (https://www.dropbox.com/s/7xmxtfvqvnp05rx/24h_plan.pdf?dl=0).
Here's my instructions to my helper for the RTTC 12 in 2015 (https://www.dropbox.com/s/sppmotqg9mqt6js/feeding_schedule.pdf?dl=0).
Good docs, very generous of you to share.
I'll be riding it next year, aiming to better my previous distance - though I think that the main target with an event like this is just finishing, whether or not you've done it before! My club record is held by Mick Potts, so well out of my league (for now at least!).
One problem I'm yet to work out how to solve is how to ensure my Garmin battery lasts the distance as I have delusions of riding to power this time, though I expect, after 12 or so hours, that power will just be whatever I can manage!
Didn't manage to do a 12 last time as LEL left me too knackered, but I'm hoping to do one this time round to get the full series in. I think I saw in the CTT annual report that next year's national is in South Wales, though I have no idea how hard that would be to get in.
-
You did 420 on your first attempt, IMO you should aim for at least 450 this time.
I doubt the S Wales course will fill.
-
Ahem...it was 425 thanks ;-)
I'd be thrilled with anything better than that to be honest. All I meant above was that an event like this is so much at the mercy of weather and any little thing going wrong, so just finishing it is the first target! I know very strong riders who didn't do as well as they could have in this year's one due to the awful weather, in part at least.
You not fancy it next year? I have fond memories of our little duels on the Quina Brook circuit.
-
If I'm at the Mersey this year I'll probably be supporting a friend, in which case I'll wave at you. As I said upthread, my main aim this year is going to be the BBAR, including the Anfield and National 100s and the Breckland 12, and other stuff is going to fit around that.
-
If I'm at the Mersey this year I'll probably be supporting a friend, in which case I'll wave at you. As I said upthread, my main aim this year is going to be the BBAR, including the Anfield and National 100s and the Breckland 12, and other stuff is going to fit around that.
CTT events are up. Looks like the Breckland 12hr isn't on after all.
I'm not riding the Newbury 12hr so have a choice of the ECCA (3 weeks after the 12hr - new course, fast) or the KCA (4 weeks after the 12hr - roads I know, bit slower). The good news is there are 4 100s I can ride before the 24hr that are all pretty close to home.
-
Eh? I can see the Breckland on there. It currently says it's not BBAR but they all currently say they're not BBAR (well the ECCA and Team Swift said that, then I stopped looking).
12-06-2016 Newbury Road Club H12h/8 0.00 Miles IE CBTan £15.00
26-06-2016 RTTC NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP (Welsh Cycling Association) (Entries close 31/05/16) R12/16 0.00 Miles NSIE B £30.00
23-07-2016 Mersey Roads Club (Entries close 28/6/16)(Tandems) D24HR 0.00 Miles NSIE £30.00
23-07-2016 RTTC NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP (Mersey Roads Club) (Entries close 28/06/16) D24HR 0.00 Miles NSIE £30.00
31-07-2016 Team Swift (YCF Points Series) V12HR 0.00 Miles IE BTan £15.00
14-08-2016 ECCA (Inc VTTA East Anglia Champs)(90 machines 2 events)(Entries close 26/07/2016) E2/12hr 0.00 Miles NSIE HBTTan £19.00
21-08-2016 Kent CA (inc VTTA (Kent Group Champs) Q/12 0.00 Miles BTan £12.00
21-08-2016 Tricycle Assn (SE) (Tricycles only) Q/12 0.00 Miles H £12.00
21-08-2016 WCTTCA & LTTCA (Incorporating Tricycle Association National 12 hour) D12/1 0.00 Miles IE BTan £15.00
04-09-2016 CC Breckland (District Championship) B12/3 0.00 Miles IE BHTan £15.00
04-09-2016 TA (East Region) B12/3 0.00 Miles IE BH £15.00
Anyway, tell me about this new ECCA course?
-
Balls. Think I had my filtering wrong. I could probably ride that then. Plenty of recovery after the 24hr, fast roads that I know and the in-laws live down the road.
On the ECCA 12hr I meant new to me - I've ridden the KCA once and the Newbury once.
Rob
-
I have teh fear about this already.
Feck.
-
I have teh fear about this already.
Feck.
Getting to me a little. When it was in Sussex it was just down the road and my helpers lived near the course. If it all went wrong I hadn't really let anyone down. It was touch and go whether I would start on the Wednesday, but the issues settled down. I was shaking an hour before the start and struggling to eat my pre-race meal.
The problem with this one is that I'm asking friends and family to go a few hundred miles out of their way to help me out. Can't really pack or decide not to do it.
-
That makes it far easier to keep going. Much easier to climb off in a moment of weakness if you are all on your own with no-one to feel guilty about!
-
That makes it far easier to keep going. Much easier to climb off in a moment of weakness if you are all on your own with no-one to feel guilty about!
But also much harder when you're 30 miles from HQ with no-one to pick you up?! Much simpler to keep riding...
[Goes off to look at dates for 12's and 100's]
-
A question for the veterans of this event. Whilst I probably won't write a schedule, it's useful to estimate where you'll be and when in order to position helpers.
From the 2015 start sheet I can see a few sections :-
- ride to Prees
- Prees-Prees Circuit
- Quina Brook Circuit
- Prees-Prees Circuit (night)
- Quina Brook Circuit
- Finishing Circuit
Does anyone know what times each circuit opens and closes ?
Thanks
Rob
-
It depends how serious you are. The contenders stop every 10 miles in front of their riders until they get to Espley, Then they stay there until their rider gets sent to Quina Brook, the marshals can tell you when that will happen. They then shift to Prees Heath, then back to Espley for the night. Around 7 or 8 am they shift back to Prees Heath. About 10am the move to the finish circuit takes place. The contenders often base themselves at the Cock O' Barton.
If you want to make things easier for your supporters, just base them at Prees Heath, until the finish circuit, then base them at the HQ. It's more fun for them that way.
-
Thanks. I don't think I'd class myself as a contender.
My helpers have looked after me on the ESCA 24hr in 2014 and 3 * 12hrs. I try to find somewhere that works for them so they don't get bored, but I still get fed and watered.
My plan currently looks like they should base themselves at Prees for most of the event as the caff is there and a lot of other supporters should also be based there. Whilst Prees-Prees is pretty long I plan to carry a large-ish fuel pod and 2 bottles. The weight penalty will make itself back in terms of convenience and lack of stops.
How much food is carried per stop will depend on how many laps I do of each circuit and the frequency of seeing helpers.
-
We'll look out for you at Espley. There's a feed station there usually. The danger is that riders with supporters at Prees skive at Espley. Having supporters at Espley stops that happening.
-
A question for the veterans of this event. Whilst I probably won't write a schedule, it's useful to estimate where you'll be and when in order to position helpers.
From the 2015 start sheet I can see a few sections :-
- ride to Prees
- Prees-Prees Circuit
- Quina Brook Circuit
- Prees-Prees Circuit (night)
- Quina Brook Circuit
- Finishing Circuit
Does anyone know what times each circuit opens and closes ?
Thanks
Rob
Hi Rob - this is from memory of three rides from a - relatively speaking - lowly plodder
You will do two loops of Shawbirch in addition to getting there so 95 miles - UNLESS you are a slow-ish late starter in a big field (I got turned back at Epsley on circuit two off a 1420 start one year after having a visitation earlier).
You will then do laps of Quina Brook until about 2130 when you will return to the Shawbirch circuit (this is a good opportunity to get "night timed up".)
I think the switch back to Quina happens about 0700 and then folks start getting directed to the finish circuit about 1000 (ESL or others better versed might correct that)
What it means that the character of your ride is heavily infuenced by your start time.
My best was just over 600km and had a reasonably early start (1315 or suchlike). That allowed me to plan out exactly the first 8 hours or so of the ride - the 95 miles above then 5 laps of Quina Brook which gave me a good base for the night section whenere I prepared myself for three laps of Shawbirch (in the end I got another bonus leg out to Epsley before being turned back). It also meant I spent less time on the finish circuit which struck me as quite lumpy. I liked the circuits of Quina Brook as one hill apart quite suited me and they had the morale boosting effect of returning to Prees every 40 minutes or so. Traffic also much quieter than on the Shawbirch circuit
Thats another feature, you could be turned back at Tern Hill or Epsley on either occasion you are doing the Shawbirch circuits, it could play havoc with supporters calculations if they arent prepared!
Hope it goes well for you.
EDIT - I dont plan to ride this event again (concentrating on shorter TTs now) but could be persuaded to act as support in 2016.
-
Thanks. Mini-plan written.
-
That's about right.
ISTR that it was 6 laps of the Quina Brook Circuit on the Saturday evening (fewer if you were slower but I expect you would get your full 6).
When I last did it they kept people off the finishing circuit until later because of roadworks. I was riding unsupported and needed a steer on timings so I knew where to stash bottles on the course, so I flipped the org an email the week before and got more precise switch timings.
-
I never really bothered with the course timings - it changes every time anyway - if you're in the lead you'll do extra laps and if you're slower they can cut a lap so you turn at Hodnet rather than doing a full loop of that big dogleg circuit. I let the Scherrit or the missus work out where they've got to be. Mersey is way easier to deal with than the ESCA for teams - it's a much simpler layout with a central RAB and you're less likely to lose your rider like on the long transfers ESCA has.
I won't be riding this year's edition. I think I've had enough of 24hrs for a bit.
-
I'm toying with heading up for a weekend to ride a few of the loops. It's quite a long trip, but I don't know the roads at all.
When I rode the ESCA I must have spent 5 or 6 weekends riding different loops, but it was only an hour from home.
-
Do the Anfield 100, you know you want to. You get to do a course recce and can tick off a classic event at the same time :)
-
Do the Anfield 100, you know you want to. You get to do a course recce and can tick off a classic event at the same time :)
Planning the Hounslow 100 that weekend. For some reason that I can't remember I need to be closer to home.
-
I spent 12hrs riding the night loop of ESCA 24 the weeks before the 2011 race. Unfortunately it was my team that got lost...
Think I spent a weekend riding the loops in Mersey before the National the year after and it's much simpler.
Having ridden 1500miles of Mersey in the last four years it's safe to say I'm pretty familiar with that course now :)
-
I spent 12hrs riding the night loop of ESCA 24 the weeks before the 2011 race. Unfortunately it was my team that got lost...
Think I spent a weekend riding the loops in Mersey before the National the year after and it's much simpler.
Having ridden 1500miles of Mersey in the last four years it's safe to say I'm pretty familiar with that course now :)
It looks simpler - although the 2014 ESCA was simpler than the 2011 - I supported in 2011 and rode in 2014.
You can get some idea from Google street view, but I think a trip up to ride might be useful. Not sure I'll do it again, but it depends how well it all goes.
-
There's a slightly unnerving bit on the finishing circuit that feel like you're riding through a farm yard.
https://goo.gl/maps/UKd6zPasr422
-
I took a full on dive into a hedge somewhere on the finishing circuit in 2013 when a harvester or truck of some sort took up the full road coming the other way. Fun times.
-
Got to love this forum when you get advice from last years top 2. Thanks, guys.
-
Who's still up for this ? I have struggled a bit recently but still want to go on the understanding that I may not be at my best.
12 weeks to go.
-
Not me. I can't focus on training and do a proper job at work in a new company and I'm not going to be earning money riding a bike in this lifetime. I don't want to make a half arsed attempt. Maybe next year.
-
Still is this years target ride. Hope the enforced course changes don't have too much impact.
12 weeks! need to cut down on the pies/pints.
-
What's this about course changes?
-
Apparently there are works to install new traffic lights on the Shawbirch leg, or whichever bit is the night circuit. Can't remember exactly where they're going to be built, there's a thread about it on TT forum.
-
Apparently there are works to install new traffic lights on the Shawbirch leg, or whichever bit is the night circuit. Can't remember exactly where they're going to be built, there's a thread about it on TT forum.
From studying the maps and looking at the notes on the TT forum it looks like roadworks and new lights somewhere between the 2 Southern RABs on the big circuit (Prees-Prees). This may mean roads South of Tern Hill could be unavailable. They could make the circuit shorter by turning earlier, but no further detail yet. I wouldn't mind a shorter circuit as my helpers will be at Prees and I'll see them more often.
-
Also, the bit south of Tern Hill has the awful Road surface so I wouldn't be sad to see it go!
Shame to hear you're pulling out, fboab.
-
Also, the bit south of Tern Hill has the awful Road surface so I wouldn't be sad to see it go!
Shame to hear you're pulling out, fboab.
+1 to the terrible surface on that leg. And if I never see Long Lane again, well, I won't be too upset.
@fboab: why not give it a go as a sort of rehearsal for next year? It would give you some experience to build on
I've missed it the last two years, and am nowhere near fit now, but am looking forward to trundling round this year. My target is 24 hours!
-
Yes, one of my abiding memories of that leg is that awful bit of road - I remember just resorting to riding down the middle of the road in the night to stay on the smoothest line.
However, I also remember being absolutely sick and tired of that loop come morning, having done 4 laps of it, and I was very relieved when I got directed back onto the Quina Brook circuit, just for some mental relief. If that loop is shortened, then it may become even more repetitive. Still, if I wanted a scenic ride then I wouldn't be doing a time trial!
Still on for it myself and looking forward to it. Reasonably happy with progress in fitness though I've been focussing on lower volume of training at higher intensity so haven't yet done anything mega long to see how the endurance is.
-
I have laid cunning plans to not ride this year, but I shall try to get there to help either marshalling or a rider.
-
Aha, there is a thread.
I've put an entry in although I'm not getting enough miles in at the moment what with other training. But I'll be somewhere in the 500km-600km range.
Unsupported as family is elsewhere that weekend.
-
Just booked Wrexham North Premier Inn (~£75 each for Friday and Sunday nights including breakfast on a flexy rate so I can get my money back if I cancel before the day).
Will be nice not having to get up at 6am for the start of a ride.
-
My entry is sent off although as yet I have not booked a hotel.
I am unto 3 hours continuously on the tri bars without changing and managing fine. this is gradually ramping up.
I am thinking about drinking. I can mount a water bottle holder on the down tube but i have been reading about the profile torpedo shaped HC system. This seems ideal for a self supported ride where i can drink on the go and have a reserve bottle on the downtime. Also holds the computer in place as well.
Do other use this or similar?
Thanks
-
In my experience, standard bottles are the easiest thing to use.
I've ridden several 12 hours and my last 24 attempt unsupported with 4 standard bottles on the bike and more bottles at the feeding area (or in bags stashed on the route). It's much quicker to swap over if you have normal bottles and cages and don't have to mess around re-filling specialist kit. They are not too expensive so you can buy plenty for the event.
I use a stem mount for one of my bottles which puts it in a very accessible (and aerodynamic) position.
-
I agree with Frank. I used a Speedfil tank in my first one and it sucked when I got sick and we then had to empty the whole tank to swap for plain water.
Bottles are easy to throw, easy to change drinks if you need to or swap for plain water if you just want to wash yourself off, etc.
They're also the cheapest option - "free" with all those wonderful sportives that audaxers love so much :)
-
There's also the option of a pepsi bottle shoved down your skinsuit, eh?
(http://thehippy.net/gallery/albums/userpics/10001/normal_9338152966_3254df33d1_c.jpg)
-
Hey, I take littering seriously.
You can't see it but there was also half a kilo of gel wrappers stuffed up my skinsuit legs.
If I can win a Nat TT Champs carrying all my rubbish then those douchebags dropping wrappers in sportives and clubruns definitely need a slappin'.
-
Hey, I take littering seriously.
You can't see it but there was also half a kilo of gel wrappers stuffed up my skinsuit legs.
If I can win a Nat TT Champs carrying all my rubbish then those douchebags dropping wrappers in sportives and clubruns definitely need a slappin'.
:thumbsup:
-
Unsupported on the ESCA a couple of years ago I went through ~11.5litres of fluids (and finished quite dehydrated) to give a small idea of how many bottles
-
I went through ~11.5litres of fluids
That puts it into perspective! I hadn't really thought of the amount of fluid. I tend to run slightly dry when riding even on a 400 but probably cannot afford to do that in this ride.
12 litres is 500 per hour which seems about right especially if we have a warm day time. That makes for 16x750ml bottles!
This will take some planning.
I am getting quite excited!
-
You'll drink a good bit during the first 7-8 hours but far less through night. In my experience, if you don't time the slowing down of your rate of drinking right, you'll need to pee multiple times between 10pm and midnight!
-
I planned on a bottle an hour but dehydrated on the first afternoon. I then overcompensated and took on too much overnight, having to visit the hedges too often - as Frank says above.
Towards the end I was throwing half drunk bottles back at my helpers. I was pretty wrecked by then so my eating/drinking plan had gone out the window in favour of trying to hit my target mileage.
I did a lot of research but still made a load of mistakes.
-
I average a 500ml bottle an hour. Though I think I've actually used closer to 16L in previous events so it does depend on temperatures and work rate.
-
I did a lot of research but still made a load of mistakes.
Making mistakes IS research :)
-
I did a lot of research but still made a load of mistakes.
Making mistakes IS research :)
Yeah, you're right. I made my target mileage last time but the last 3-4hrs were horrible.
I was listing out what I've changed/improved since 2014 and it could all add up to at least a 5 mile improvement.
-
I did a lot of research but still made a load of mistakes.
Making mistakes IS research :)
Yeah, you're right. I made my target mileage last time but the last 3-4hrs were horrible.
I was listing out what I've changed/improved since 2014 and it could all add up to at least a 5 mile improvement.
I'm going to be well chuffed if I get a 5 mile improvement :)
My main improvement will be not stopping four times, hopefully, although I don't necessarily think that that was a mistake last year. If it starts raining, wearing the right kit seemed pretty important so we adjusted plans on the fly.
I'm keeping my fingers crossed as well that any route changes this year aren't horrible and bumpy...
-
I bet you'd be pretty chuffed with a 3.83 mile improvement!
-
I bet you'd be pretty chuffed with a 3.83 mile improvement!
Possibly, although there might be 119 people in front of me, one of whom might make that not enough :-[
-
I am going to get lapped a lot. You seemed to be going well on Sunday, wheels of fire. Will be a great weekend if we see comp record fall.
I'm hoping with the shorter circuits and out and back nature of the course that this one will be more sociable. I felt very removed from reality on the long night circuit of the ESCA when I hardly saw anyone apart from the marshalls.
-
What is the likely course now - turning at the Hodnet roundabout? That has got to be good as that last section is bumpy, dark and lonely! And a bit narrower for when you meet lorries through night.
-
They're taking my least part of the course out... when I'm not able to race it. No fair!
I'll have to drown my sorrows about this tonight... and tomorrow... and maybe work on a bike or two Sunday... rinse repeat. ;)
-
I'm not sure it's such good news; yes it skips out that awful bit of road surface but might it not mean that we spend more time on Quina Brook as the night course is now shorter and so may be a bit more "congested" with riders? Having said that, it's three years since I did it and I can't remember how far along that leg the Hodnet roundabout is.
-
I really like the QB circuit! That swoopy double-bend is a ray of sunshine after all the A-road bashing.
OK so its probably slower .... but its the same for everyone.
-
Yeah, it is a more interesting circuit but slower as you say.
Really looking forward to it now, I think I was spoiled bt ideal conditions the only other time I did it (2013) so trying to keep my expectations low!
-
Isn't this all conjecture for now ? Last I saw they were considering options and haven't published the course details yet.
I've never ridden this course, just the ESCA in 2014. I know there's less climbing and more fast roads on the Mersey but that's about it.
-
REVISED COURSE DETAILS MERSEY ROADS 24 HOUR
Start on the old A534 on the Churton side of the H/Q
At TP8 proceed to B5130, left on A534 to Broxton RAB 03.90 03.90
Take 3rd exit on the A41.continue on A41 through Hampton Heath RAB
To Grindley Brook RAB 3rd exit onto A49/41 by pass 08.73 12.63
Through Wrexham Road RAB, Wem Road RAB take 3rd exit 02.27 14.90
Continue on A41/A49 by pass to Whitchurch south RAB
2nd exit to Prees Heath RAB. 01.70 16.60
Section two
Take 1st to Ternhill RAB 0698 23.58
Take 3rd exit onto A53 continue to Espley RAB 03.33 26.91
Encircle RAB retrace to Ternhill RAB 03.34 30.25
1st exit onto A41 to Prees 06.92 37.17
Take 1st exit onto the A49 to Battlefield Church RAB 13.99 51.16
Encircle RAB retrace to Prees Heath RAB 14.02 65.18
Take 3rd exit (first is the service road) to Ternhill RAB 07.06 72.24
Take 3rd exit onto A53 continue to Espley RAB 03.33 75.57
Encircle RAB retrace to Ternhill RAB 03.34 78.91
1st exit onto A41 to Prees Heath RAB 06.92 85.83
Take 1st exit onto the A49 to Battlefield Church RAB 13.99 99.82
Encircle RAB retrace to Prees Heath RAB 14.02 113.84
Section three. Quina Brook Circuit.
Take 3rd exit (2nd is the service RD) onto 41/A49
Continue on A41/A49 to Wem Road RAB 01.66 115.50
Left on B5476 to Tilstock Continue to Quina Brook 05.11 120.65
Left on unclassified road to Junction with A49 02.20 122.85
Left on A49 back to Prees Island, take second exit. 03.61 126.46
(first is the service road) continue to Wem road RAB
Quina Brook circuit lap 2 12.62 139.08
Quina Brook circuit lap 3 12.62 151.70
Quina Brook circuit lap 4 12.62 164.32
Quina Brook circuit lap 5 12.62 176’94
Quina Brook circuit lap 6 12.62 189.56
Quina Brook circuit lap 7 12.62 202.18
Section four Prees Heath Espley Prees Heath
Prees Heath RAB,Take 3rd exit (first is the service road) 07.06 209.24
to Ternhill RAB Take 3rd exit onto A53 continue to Espley RAB 03.33 212.57
Encircle RAB retrace to Ternhill RAB 03.34 215.91
1st exit onto A41 to Prees Heath RAB 06.92 222.83
Encircle RAB retrace to Ternhill
Lap 2 Prees Heath Ternhill Espley Ternhill Prees Heatth 20.65 243.48
Lap 3 Prees Heath Ternhill Espley Ternhill Prees Heatth 20.65 264.13
Lap 4 Prees Heath Ternhill Espley Ternhill Prees Heatth 20.65 284.78
Lap 5 Prees Heath Ternhill Espley Ternhill Prees Heatth 20.65 305.43
Lap 6 Prees Heath Ternhill Espley Ternhill Prees Heatth 20.65 326.08
Lap 7 Prees Heath Ternhill Espley Ternhill Prees Heatth 20.65 346.73
Section four Quinna Brook circuit
Take 3rd exit (2nd is the service RD) onto 41/A49
Continue on A41/A49 to Wem Road RAB 01.66 348.39
Left on B5476 to Tilstock Continue to Quina Brook 05.11 353.54
Left on unclassified road to Junction with A49 02.20 355.74
Left on A49 back to Prees Island, take second exit. 03.61 359.35
(first is the service road) continue to Wem road RAB
Quina Brook circuit lap 2 12.62 371.97
Quina Brook circuit lap 3 12.62 384.59
Quina Brook circuit lap 4 12.62 397.21
Quina Brook circuit lap 5 12.62 409.83
Quina Brook circuit lap 6 12.62 422.45
Section four
Straight on A41/A49 by pass to Wrexham Road RAB, at Gridley Brook 02.27 424.72
Take to 1st left onto the A41 via Hampton Heath to Broxton RAB 08.68 433.40
Continue on A41 2nd exit to start the finishing circuit
Timekeeper 1 At Hatton Heath Lay-by 04.16 437.56
Continue on A41 Left at Platts Lane Signposted Bruera
To unclassified road at Bruera Church
Timekeeper 2 Left at T junction to join B5130 01.67 439.23
With care at Alford Continue on B5130
Timekeeper 3 (milestone Churton 11/4 miles) Continue on B5130 01.98 441.21
through Churton Bear left on B5130, Sibbersfield Lane past
Timekeeper 4 In lay-by 1/4 mile prior to event HQ 02.45 443.66
Continue past event HQ Turn Left on A534
Timekeeper 5 (drain grid on left opposite Cock o Barton) 02.03 445.69
Continue on A534 past Carden Park Hotel to Turn sharp left
onto unclassified road signposted Coddington turn right at duck pond
sign posted Handley. Follow lane to Coddington Parish church
Timekeeper 6 Follow lane to Coddington Parish church 01.42 447.11
Continue through Aldersey Green to Handley T Junction 02.12 449.23
Timekeeper 7 Left continue through Handley Village
to T junction with A41 Left onto A41 TK1 to complete finishing circuit. 01.90 451.13
FINISHING CIRCUIT TOTAL MILEAGE 13.57
-
OK, so it is turning short at Espley, but there is a new out and back down the A49 (over the Quina Brook circuit hill). I've not ridden down there beyond where the QB circuit joins it but I expect it's probably on the Anfield 100, so others will no doubt be familiar with it. Apart from the hill, I'd have thought it would be a pretty fast road...?
-
Any moment now.... "Does someone have a gpx?"
-
That's most of today at work sorted then. I feel a bit of google streetview research coming on.
-
Back down that road again then. I assume that there's a roundabout before Battlefield Roundabout where the event used to go until traffic lights and a services complex was installed there.
I don't know if this will make the course faster or not.
On the one hand, there are 3 climbs on that road iirc. Nothing especially tough but not very helpful for the average speed.
On the other hand, the Hodnet by pass is very fast and we'd be using that twice as much. It will also eliminate that rough bit of road on the leg from Epsley to Telford.
-
Back down that road again then. I assume that there's a roundabout before Battlefield Roundabout where the event used to go until traffic lights and a services complex was installed there.
I don't know if this will make the course faster or not.
On the one hand, there are 3 climbs on that road iirc. Nothing especially tough but not very helpful for the average speed.
On the other hand, the Hodnet by pass is very fast and we'd be using that twice as much. It will also eliminate that rough bit of road on the leg from Epsley to Telford.
I'm happier that the night leg is shorter. 20miles between seeing helpers seems about right and I was more concerned about having the longer circuit.
As long as it runs faster than the 2014 ESCA I'll be happy. That was pretty lumpy in places.
-
The Battlefield leg is slower and hillier than the Shawbury leg. Then again, the bottom half of the Shawbury leg (south of Hodnet) has poor tarmac which slows it down a bit, so you'll be using the fast roads north of Hodnet twice as much.
The WCTTCA 12 hour uses the Battlefield leg twice. I found it easy to cook myself going up the hills and wear myself out for the rest of the race. Then again, that wasn't helped by me being singlespeed at that point.
-
Should be faster. If the weather is good, wheels of fire should be happy with the changes.
-
Hey, I take littering seriously.
You can't see it but there was also half a kilo of gel wrappers stuffed up my skinsuit legs.
If I can win a Nat TT Champs carrying all my rubbish then those douchebags dropping wrappers in sportives and clubruns definitely need a slappin'.
:thumbsup:
:thumbsup:
-
I am plotting out the route so I have an idea of the route in my head.
In section 2 line 2
take 3rd exit onto A53 continue to espley RAB is at 26.91 mile
encircle RAB retrace to tern hill is at 30.25
1st exit onto A41 to Prees is at 37.17
I cant understand how a trip along the road and then straight back is a different distance in each direction?
Am I missing something?
-
I am plotting out the route so I have an idea of the route in my head.
In section 2 line 2
take 3rd exit onto A53 continue to espley RAB is at 26.91 mile
encircle RAB retrace to tern hill is at 30.25
1st exit onto A41 to Prees is at 37.17
I cant understand how a trip along the road and then straight back is a different distance in each direction?
Am I missing something?
I haven't analysed step by step but Prees-Tern Hill-Espley and back is 20.4miles - see night circuit totals.
I think they put the distance as where you are at the end of the instruction rather than where the turn is. The numbers make sense if Espley roundabout is @ 26.91, Tern hill is at 30.25 and Prees is 37.17. That makes 10.26miles from one end to the other and in line with the total circuit distance.
If it helps I've estimated that I will visit Prees at 17, 37, 65, 86 & 114 miles, before moving onto the circuits.
-
Thanks Rob
-
Should be faster. If the weather is good, wheels of fire should be happy with the changes.
I'm always happy.
Last year I got an extra trip down to Epsley, maybe again this time. TBH, It's just 24 hours without nagging from the kids... although number 1 child is coming as part of the support crew this time. He assures me that he's going to stay up all night.
-
Should be faster. If the weather is good, wheels of fire should be happy with the changes.
I'm always happy.
Ha! We clearly have very different approaches. :)
Anyone know any good anger management courses?
-
How is everyone's training going ?
Ha. I've done a single 200 this year, and I'm only managing to fit in 100km a week of cycling most weeks (on top of 5-8 hours of running and swimming, so there's a fair bit of CV activity going on).
So, I'm debating whether to cancel my entry (I don't expect a refund) and to just use that weekend to cycle down to Cornwall instead.
But then the other part of me says "sod it", use it as a learning experience and aim to scrape in with anything over 500km. I'm just worried that it may be busier than normal this year (I know it's never been full in the past but...) and that I'd be taking away a place from someone who would have put in more effort than me.
-
Anyone know any good anger management courses?
Don't do it. Rage is the fire that speeds us up. I used to be much faster when I had more to be angry about.
-
How is everyone's training going ?
Ha. I've done a single 200 this year, and I'm only managing to fit in 100km a week of cycling most weeks (on top of 5-8 hours of running and swimming, so there's a fair bit of CV activity going on).
So, I'm debating whether to cancel my entry (I don't expect a refund) and to just use that weekend to cycle down to Cornwall instead.
But then the other part of me says "sod it", use it as a learning experience and aim to scrape in with anything over 500km. I'm just worried that it may be busier than normal this year (I know it's never been full in the past but...) and that I'd be taking away a place from someone who would have put in more effort than me.
It never fills. By going along and riding, you're helping the event to thrive and hence continue, thereby giving places to many riders in the future!
-
How is everyone's training going ?
Ha. I've done a single 200 this year, and I'm only managing to fit in 100km a week of cycling most weeks (on top of 5-8 hours of running and swimming, so there's a fair bit of CV activity going on).
So, I'm debating whether to cancel my entry (I don't expect a refund) and to just use that weekend to cycle down to Cornwall instead.
But then the other part of me says "sod it", use it as a learning experience and aim to scrape in with anything over 500km. I'm just worried that it may be busier than normal this year (I know it's never been full in the past but...) and that I'd be taking away a place from someone who would have put in more effort than me.
It never fills. By going along and riding, you're helping the event to thrive and hence continue, thereby giving places to many riders in the future!
I'd love it to fill - the Williams family put so much into the event, it would be fantastic.
...and wearing 120 in the Mersey would be the stuff that dreams are made of, like a footballer wearing number 10 for England in the WC final.
-
More chance of me wearing 120 than England in a Cup final :P
-
So I am a DNS. Pedestrian walks out in front of me and I now have a fractured collarbone! Surgery tomorrow.
-
So I am a DNS. Pedestrian walks out in front of me and I now have a fractured collarbone! Surgery tomorrow.
Bummer. Hope the surgery & recovery go well
-
So I am a DNS. Pedestrian walks out in front of me and I now have a fractured collarbone! Surgery tomorrow.
Sorry to hear it, Chris. Hope the surgery goes OK.
Rob
-
Bummer Chris, I'm gutted for you. One down for the Mercury team then, all the best for surgery and recovery.
-
So I am a DNS. Pedestrian walks out in front of me and I now have a fractured collarbone! Surgery tomorrow.
Really sorry to hear that, Chris - Heal up well and come back next year, stronger.
-
So I am a DNS. Pedestrian walks out in front of me and I now have a fractured collarbone! Surgery tomorrow.
Just SO frustrating - my sympathies.
-
Last year I got an extra trip down to Epsley, maybe again this time. TBH, It's just 24 hours without nagging from the kids... although number 1 child is coming as part of the support crew this time. He assures me that he's going to stay up all night.
I ended up with an extra half lap down to Epsley also which really confused my support team.
-
joined highly esteemed ach today and entered mersey roads. next task is acquiring* some fast wheels, buying an aero helmet that fits and finding the way to mount a bottle cage/garmin/lights on the aero bars, and most importantly do some intensive rides on the tt bike in the coming weeks. :facepalm:. any ideas about the support team, i.e. what do we need to take, how to best plan the night/rest/sleep?
* borrowing/renting for one event only
-
Sleep for them, as opposed to you? You shouldn't sleep at all - but I'm sure you know that, post TCR and everything you've done.
The top riders basically don't stop at all, but since it starts at around lunchtime, the way a lot of people (me included) have done it is to ride until dark, have a break to fit lights, don night clothes and eat some proper food, and then another stop in the morning to reverse the process.
If you can get them to and from York, you're perfectly welcome to borrow these wheels (https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10100608462759774&l=af10388a61): a Corima Aero front and a FFWD disc rear. Both are clincher, the rear has 10 speed Campag and Shimano freehubs.
-
joined highly esteemed ach today and entered mersey roads. next task is acquiring* some fast wheels, buying an aero helmet that fits and finding the way to mount a bottle cage/garmin/lights on the aero bars, and most importantly do some intensive rides on the tt bike in the coming weeks. :facepalm:. any ideas about the support team, i.e. what do we need to take, how to best plan the night/rest/sleep?
* borrowing/renting for one event only
Cut/file down an old seatpost or bars or something until you can zip tie it across your extensions, like:
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OBgnJA83mXA/U6BPiqexF5I/AAAAAAAAEhY/NHwOjD0wDHcFAgt-7iLUmlb1PLN3MHSeQCCo/s640/IMG_20140614_112839.jpg)
This hold Garmin stem mount as well as my Exposure light underneath. Neat and effective.
Support team need food/drink (easy enough to buy on the hoof if there's more than one of them), maybe some chairs, caffeine, dose of htfu and whatever you need to hand.
Maybe Practice some bottle hand ups
(http://image1.redbull.com/rbcom/010/2015-07-21/1331736397311_8/0010/1/800/533/8/the-mersey-roads-24hr-time-trial-2015-bottle-hand-out.jpg)
There is no sleep.
Do not stop.
-
Sleep for them, as opposed to you? You shouldn't sleep at all - but I'm sure you know that, post TCR and everything you've done.
The top riders basically don't stop at all, but since it starts at around lunchtime, the way a lot of people (me included) have done it is to ride until dark, have a break to fit lights, don night clothes and eat some proper food, and then another stop in the morning to reverse the process.
If you can get them to and from York, you're perfectly welcome to borrow these wheels (https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10100608462759774&l=af10388a61): a Corima Aero front and a FFWD disc rear. Both are clincher, the rear has 10 speed Campag and Shimano freehubs.
the intention is to stop as little as possible (i haven't mastered to do no1 while riding yet :)), no sleep for me, but the support will want to have some sleep/rest. many thanks for your offer of wheels (great aero position and time in that photo!), i will get in touch if i don't source anything locally, 10sp shimano freehub perfect.
-
Cut/file down an old seatpost or bars or something until you can zip tie it across your extensions, like:
This hold Garmin stem mount as well as my Exposure light underneath. Neat and effective.
Support team need food/drink (easy enough to buy on the hoof if there's more than one of them), maybe some chairs, caffeine, dose of htfu and whatever you need to hand.
Maybe Practice some bottle hand ups
There is no sleep.
Do not stop.
cheers hippy for the sound advice, if you had a water bottle horizontally on the extensions (that's what i want to do) where would you have your gps so that it's not in a way of the bottle? got the exposure lights as well - did you carry them arround all the time or just for the night?
-
cheers hippy for the sound advice, if you had a water bottle horizontally on the extensions (that's what i want to do) where would you have your gps so that it's not in a way of the bottle? got the exposure lights as well - did you carry them arround all the time or just for the night?
My bars have a BTA mount that puts a bottle between the elbow pads. The Garmin out-front mount is on the DIY seatpost bar between the extensions so the Garmin is out near my hands for easy reading and the bottle is between my forearms. Although saying that, I had to move my pads in closer so stopped using the BTA mount.
Exposure lights have a quick release so I fit before it gets dark and remove when it's light again. The year I won it the quick release wouldn't open so I wasted time undoing the whole mount with an allen key so I'd suggest a little bit of teflon lube on the mount so it doesn't stick.
-
Can lend you some wheels in west London.
I used a bit of broom handle fixed to my bars with cable ties to mount 2 Hope VI's ones. Quick to fix on at dusk. Bottle on a stem cap mount. Garmin mounted on an aerobar.
Definitely practice hand ups...
Do a schedule, if you've got enough info to go on. How many miles in each hour.
-
We always drop the first bottle. It's tradition.
-
Hippy, which BTA mount do you use? Mine's a bit rattly and I'm looking for a new one.
-
It's specific to my TriRig bars. Zip ties and cage will work.
-
Do you actually need a routesheet/gps for this - I was assuming there would be marshals on the junctions. Do I need the routesheet on my bars? I'm not bothered about the Garmin for pace etc, my legs will tell me how much to press on the pedals.
-
It's a time trial, not an audax! And a very well organised one at that. Excellent marshalling all around when I did and you'd struggle to go wrong.
-
The route-sheet will be in the schedule. Only the contenders for the places will always follow that route. Anyone doing less than the distance to the finishing circuit in the schedule might omit part of the course. The organisers aim to ensure that those with the chance of a prize do the same distance up to the finishing circuit.
All junctions are marshalled, so for a rider with no support, you just follow directions. The difficulty is for the supporters of riders with no chance of a podium finish, because they might not follow the course printed in the schedule.
With no Shawbirch leg, Press Heath is the obvious place for supporters to base themselves.
-
The route-sheet will be in the schedule. Only the contenders for the places will always follow that route. Anyone doing less than the distance to the finishing circuit in the schedule might omit part of the course. The organisers aim to ensure that those with the chance of a prize do the same distance up to the finishing circuit.
All junctions are marshalled, so for a rider with no support, you just follow directions. The difficulty is for the supporters of riders with no chance of a podium finish, because they might not follow the course printed in the schedule.
With no Shawbirch leg, Press Heath is the obvious place for supporters to base themselves.
Even the fast guys can have their route changed to keep everyone together. For example I had to do an extra dog-leg (Shawbirch?) loop and then another but only half-way to the RAB after Tern Hill.
You don't really need to worry about that though, the marshalls will indicate if you need to turn early or whatever.
I did once take a wrong turn but I'd been riding for 18hrs and the marshall yelled and I corrected it quickly so didn't lose too much time.
Bare in mind I've taken wrong turns in 25mi TTs... I have 0 sense of direction.
-
Bare in mind I've taken wrong turns in 25mi TTs... I have 0 sense of direction.
Pfft! I know people who've had to stop and ask for directions on a velodrome.
The above statement may contain traces of Lie...
-
When I did my last 24hr in 2014 I rode most of the route repeatedly in training. I don't have the luxury this time, but have studied it on Google maps. The GPS will only be used for recording.
It's probably best to have a plan of where you are going to be and when based on your usual riding speed. It helps you to pace, look forward to each change of section and put your helpers in the right place. That said, as ESL pointed out, my helpers will be at Prees for something 201-21hrs before moving to the finishing circuit. I'm hoping this makes it easier for them than the last few events we have done together.
-
Bare [sic] in mind I've taken wrong turns in 25mi TTs... I have 0 sense of direction.
Here's one for you: Routes I've taken at the V718 turn (https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8712/16773535879_b81688cbca_z_d.jpg)
-
When I did my last 24hr in 2014 I rode most of the route repeatedly in training. I don't have the luxury this time, but have studied it on Google maps. The GPS will only be used for recording.
It's probably best to have a plan of where you are going to be and when based on your usual riding speed. It helps you to pace, look forward to each change of section and put your helpers in the right place. That said, as ESL pointed out, my helpers will be at Prees for something 201-21hrs before moving to the finishing circuit. I'm hoping this makes it easier for them than the last few events we have done together.
Mersey Roads is a much simpler course than ESCA.
-
Bare [sic] in mind I've taken wrong turns in 25mi TTs... I have 0 sense of direction.
Here's one for you: Routes I've taken at the V718 turn (https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8712/16773535879_b81688cbca_z_d.jpg)
I'm not ashamed to say I ride most of my TTs (including the short ones) with a GPS of the route loaded.
-
Just looking at the course details from 2007, that has riders entering the finishing circuit with 461.183 miles done. i suppose there's some way of putting in a GPX which allows variable circuits of Prees Island-Prees Island, and Quina Brook.
-
Will you be filming again ESL ?
-
The circuits seemed to be very easy to follow and well marshalled. I'd have a map view showing all the circuits as a guide if anything. It's too much of a faff to change route on each circuit.
-
Call from the hospital today and Junior's next operation is now scheduled for Monday 25th.....great. I expect I'll still race, but the family will need to stay at home and I'll have to leave first thing Monday to get home.
-
Does that mean you'll have no supporters?
-
Does that mean you'll have no supporters?
No. I've got 2 supporters. It's just that it was my wife's job to support my supporters, if you know what I mean. I'll need to drive myself back to my hotel, but it's only in Wrexham.
-
I am hoping to ride the Mersey Road 24TT next month can/how do I log this as an Audax? I'd quite like the points for my 2016 SR
Thanks.
:smug:
-
You do it by looking at the threads on here about precisely that subject :P
-
It's more usual to work up to the 24 by doing an SR, with the 600 a couple of weeks to 10 days before the event. There's also a big field in a PBP year, as it fills the gap between the SR and PBP.
How many SRs have included a 24 is an interesting question.
-
https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=98008.0
-
I'm not racing this year, but I shall be around. If anyone who knows me wants support, shout. Otherwise I shall see if I can be useful in general.
-
I'm not racing this year, but I shall be around. If anyone who knows me wants support, shout. Otherwise I shall see if I can be useful in general.
*humbly raises hand*
i would be most grateful having a bit of support from a man with such a vast experience in this matter. let's discuss it via pm.
-
"Vast experience" might be over-cooking it a bit. I shall PM you.
-
I'm not racing this year, but I shall be around. If anyone who knows me wants support, shout. Otherwise I shall see if I can be useful in general.
I don't need direct support as such, but if you see Richard Thomas or Chris Tracey looking bewildered in the middle of the night some soothing words would be very welcome I'm sure.
-
Anyone know when the sign on usually is - trying to decide if I should travel early on Saturday or get down there the day before. Obv, if sign on is Friday evening it simplifies the decision.
-
Sign on is on the Saturday.
-
If you're going to race all Saturday night, getting up early on the Saturday is not to be recommended. If you do need to get up early to do that, and if you can afford the time and cost of another night away, getting there on a Friday is a good idea.
-
I'm not racing this year, but I shall be around. If anyone who knows me wants support, shout. Otherwise I shall see if I can be useful in general.
I don't need direct support as such, but if you see Richard Thomas or Chris Tracey looking bewildered in the middle of the night some soothing words would be very welcome I'm sure.
Are you planning to be that difficult for them? ;)
-
I'm not racing this year, but I shall be around. If anyone who knows me wants support, shout. Otherwise I shall see if I can be useful in general.
I don't need direct support as such, but if you see Richard Thomas or Chris Tracey looking bewildered in the middle of the night some soothing words would be very welcome I'm sure.
Are you planning to be that difficult for them? ;)
If all goes to plan there should be little interaction, but it never works out like that does it ?
-
Off number 77. Zigzag off a minute behind me. Full list on the Mersey Roads Facebook page.
All a bit real now.
-
I see Arctic Tacx have persuaded Tim Bayley back, after his "never again" moment in a previous edition over 10 years ago. With Shoobs and 24HourMaths AKA Wheels of Fire, that should be a formidable team.
Unfortunately Tim had a bad accident a week or so ago, knocked off his TT bike by a builders' van. We've got everything crossed that he recovers in time to make the start line.
Jon on the other hand, managed to win the Finsbury Park 50 at the weekend after training out in Oman without a TT bike, so looking good on that front :thumbsup:
-
Off number 77. Zigzag off a minute behind me. Full list on the Mersey Roads Facebook page.
All a bit real now.
thanks rob, i only know a handful of riders in that list.. does the starting place/number mean anything (e.g. riding different number of day or night circuits)?
-
Off number 77. Zigzag off a minute behind me. Full list on the Mersey Roads Facebook page.
All a bit real now.
thanks rob, i only know a handful of riders in that list.. does the starting place/number mean anything (e.g. riding different number of day or night circuits)?
Seeded riders are on the 10 and 5 numbers. Wheels of Fire is last off as last year's winner. Once you've been going for a while it means less as they open and close circuits at different times. You need to watch the marshals and timekeepers to work out when you move between the circuits.
-
Some questions...
1. Do the numbers on the arms have to remain visible at all times? (Wondering about the gortex jacket dance...)
2. Is it obvious who you shout your number to (e.g. the timekeepers vs the marshals) or do you just shout it at everyone as you pass?
3. I believe commercial (non-sponsorship) kit is verboten, but sadly my club kit order is due to be delivered on the 25th. I'll probably wear my LEL jersey and shorts with 'Condor' in big letters on the side. I assume the latter will be ok?
4. I take it music/headphones are banned (I don't normally use them but I thought I'd just check...)?
-
1. They usually give you more than one set of numbers, so that you can put the numbers on kit beforehand. You only need the arm number on the left arm.
2. It's usually fairly obvious; marshals will take your number at every turn or junction - they are usually sitting down with a notepad. Better to shout your number at everyone than get missed though. If you stop at Prees Heath roundabout, make sure you actually pass the turn marshal.
3. No commercial kit, but kit with the brand name on is acceptable.
4. Yes, headphones are banned in all CTT events. Some people use loud speakers, which is allowed.
-
Thanks, I'm sure there'll be more panic before the event itself!
Indeed:-
5. Are front/rear reflectors required? I plan on moving my Shimano Click'R SPD pedals over from my commuter so I will have legal/compliant pedal reflectors (and no need for ankle straps) but wondering if they're picky about front/rear reflectors since these are required by law...
-
A look at Kimroy's photos of last year's event (http://www.kimroy-photography.co.uk/gallery2/main.php?g2_itemId=412973) should help you make your mind up on that one ;)
-
A look at Kimroy's photos of last year's event (http://www.kimroy-photography.co.uk/gallery2/main.php?g2_itemId=412973) should help you make your mind up on that one ;)
God's gift to women below had ankle reflectors on... I think there was some concern about legal requirements at the start... no dramas from the cops though.
(http://www.kimroy-photography.co.uk/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=413101&g2_serialNumber=1)
-
A look at Kimroy's photos of last year's event (http://www.kimroy-photography.co.uk/gallery2/main.php?g2_itemId=412973) should help you make your mind up on that one ;)
Well I couldn't find any photos taken between sunset and sunrise to check for sure but I guess everyone doesn't scrabble around fitting reflectors at the same time as lights.
-
It's more usual to work up to the 24 by doing an SR, with the 600 a couple of weeks to 10 days before the event. There's also a big field in a PBP year, as it fills the gap between the SR and PBP.
How many SRs have included a 24 is an interesting question.
One of my SRs depended on the Mersey Roads, due to a DNF in the Kernow & SW. The other time I did a '24' was in a PBP year so I already had the SR series. Having said that, I think there was still a bit of me left on the Sussex roads that year when I lined up in Paris; if I was going for a quick time in PBP I'm not sure I'd go full gas in a '24' in the same summer.
-
long range weather forecast looks good, light wind, dry, with temperatures 13-22'c.
is everyone planning to have two pairs of lights (front and back)? also while the spare lights are strongly recommended, the pedal reflectors are a "must", hmm..
-
(https://axka.com/media/wysiwyg/blog/may/biketowork/bike3.jpg)
-
long range weather forecast looks good, light wind, dry, with temperatures 13-22'c.
is everyone planning to have two pairs of lights (front and back)? also while the spare lights are strongly recommended, the pedal reflectors are a "must", hmm..
2 on the front and 2 on the back. Same as my usual audax set up.
I have reflective leg bands to put on at night. This covers the pedal reflectors rule. At the ESCA they gave you a pair at the start. This does remind me that I'm not entirely sure when I last saw them.
-
Good luck all riders & crew.
Remember: NOOOO stopping!
That feeling of rolling past the final timekeeper is something quite special. Enjoy!
-
Yup, good luck everybody. Will be thinking of you.
-
If you are interested, I spoke to Mark Florence last night on his excellent Time Trial Podcast (which is worth a listen with many interesting back episodes). We talked long distance TTs, Arctic-Tacx RT and next weekend's Mersey Roads 24. :thumbsup:
http://cyclingtimetrialpodcast.libsyn.com/
-
I'd been thinking for a while that he should get someone on to talk about the 24, sounds great. I'll have a listen later on - have you given any tips for us mere mortals? ;-)
-
If you are interested, I spoke to Mark Florence last night on his excellent Time Trial Podcast (which is worth a listen with many interesting back episodes). We talked long distance TTs, Arctic-Tacx RT and next weekend's Mersey Roads 24. :thumbsup:
http://cyclingtimetrialpodcast.libsyn.com/
Thanks for sharing that. Along with Wilko's youtube interviews (https://youtu.be/Z9g_g73Iqeg) it makes a great resource.
The tip to sit up every couple of miles and have a stretch is invaluable. Also like that it was done to a distance/time alarm.
I've got bad posture and a weak core. Last year my neck went, previously it was my back (extremely painful). Perhaps if I had followed a similar plan I'd have managed to hold it off.
....maybe next time.
-
If you are interested, I spoke to Mark Florence last night on his excellent Time Trial Podcast (which is worth a listen with many interesting back episodes). We talked long distance TTs, Arctic-Tacx RT and next weekend's Mersey Roads 24. :thumbsup:
http://cyclingtimetrialpodcast.libsyn.com/
Thanks for sharing that. Along with Wilko's youtube interviews (https://youtu.be/Z9g_g73Iqeg) it makes a great resource.
The tip to sit up every couple of miles and have a stretch is invaluable. Also like that it was done to a distance/time alarm.
I've got bad posture and a weak core. Last year my neck went, previously it was my back (extremely painful). Perhaps if I had followed a similar plan I'd have managed to hold it off.
....maybe next time.
Enjoyed the podcast and picked up a couple of extra tips.
On the ESCA in 2014 my hip and lower back hurt from about 10hrs and my neck went completely with 2hrs to go. A lot of things went wrong, but I think these reduced my final mileage quite a bit as I spent far more time sitting down than I planned. The hip issues have been resolved with some position tweaking and physio. The neck gets sore on longer rides if I stay in position, but is better if I remember to keep my shoulders relaxed. I'm not sure I would push through neck issues again as it felt really dangerous last time - I recall a bus having to stop for me while I was looking for somewhere to lay down.
Anyway I re-built the bike last night and just need to pack after a little shopping. I'm driving up on Friday so will have plenty of time to faff and fret before my start time.
-
Just saw the posts on FB and TTF that Ravens Café will be closed 20:00 to 06:00
Apparently the garages at Prees and Tern Hill are 24hrs though. (for your/supporters supplies)
-
Just saw the posts on FB and TTF that Ravens Café will be closed 20:00 to 06:00
Apparently the garages at Prees and Tern Hill are 24hrs though. (for your/supporters supplies)
That's a bit of a git for the unsupported lot (like me). Oh well, I suppose a 24h garage will mean less time stopped though.
I'll be in the North Wrexham Premier Inn on Friday and Sunday nights. (No spare space in the room though).
-
It's worth noting that there's mention in the schedule of a feed station at Espley during the night. Last year it was just after the roundabout, coming back towards Tern Hill. Typical food is sandwiches and egg custards, and tea and coffee is served. It's mentioned just above the doping control information on page 4.
Feeding at Prees Heath tends to have been scaled back, as more riders have support, and riders used the cafe.
The organisation also takes your night gear to Prees Heath from the HQ, so you could put some food in with that.
-
Just saw the posts on FB and TTF that Ravens Café will be closed 20:00 to 06:00
Apparently the garages at Prees and Tern Hill are 24hrs though. (for your/supporters supplies)
There's a fish and chip shop at Prees now that's open until 11pm
-
If you are interested, I spoke to Mark Florence last night on his excellent Time Trial Podcast (which is worth a listen with many interesting back episodes). We talked long distance TTs, Arctic-Tacx RT and next weekend's Mersey Roads 24. :thumbsup:
http://cyclingtimetrialpodcast.libsyn.com/
Just enjoyed listening to that over lunch: some interesting insights. Especially 'avoid the power spike'.
Good luck this weekend!
-
Gah, left the info booklet at home (along with arm warmers, safety pins and duck tape).
Anyone know of a link to a PDF or the details elsewhere?
Especially what time do I need to be at the HQ tomorrow? (I know my start time is 13:11, I just wonder if there's a specific time to get there for signing on or the like.)
-
You need to be at HQ in time to sign on, pick up your numbers and make it to the start line. The faster you can do that, the later you can sign on - there isn't an official cut-off. Personally I'd recommend a couple of hours, giving you time to eat, go to the toilet, give your food to the organisers if you're doing it that way and tinker with the bike if necessary before warming up.
-
Warm up? On a 24? That's what the first 12 hours are for isn't it?
-
Just driven a few bits of the course. There's temporary lights on the Quina Brook circuit at Coton. Probably not a huge issue over 24hrs.
-
Hope you all get what you want from this event, and have fun (albeit Type 2). Having driven past TT'ers on the A19 last weekend, I can confidently say this is not a type of cycling I identify with at all, but I'm happy to accept it's cool for some. I can't claim that I think it's a Good Thing for cyclists to race on busy A roads (I don't), but there's no law against it, so I hope you stay safe and encounter only empathetic drivers.
-
Perfect, thanks. I don't mind being early as the alternative is sitting in a hotel room getting bored.
Just need to fettle the bike (remove rack and mudguards), pack and repack, do the GPS tracks and wander over the route using Google Streetview.
-
The night feed station will be between Espley and Tern Hill in a lay-by. Those who've only done the ride in recent years might find the Prees Heath to Battlefield section a bit lumpier than they expect.
Theres a 24 Hour MacDonalds on the A41/A49 near Whitchurch if supporters feel peckish in the night.
-
Just driven a few bits of the course. There's temporary lights on the Quina Brook circuit at Coton. Probably not a huge issue over 24hrs.
Should be gone tomorrow if not already
-
Good luck everyone!
-
Good luck everyone!
This ^^^^. You are, of course, all Quite Mad.
-
Good luck everyone. I'm heading south down the A41 tomorrow morning so I'll give you all a wave.
-
anyone know who is suppoting TG?
-
This guy (http://www.timetriallingforum.co.uk/index.php?showtopic=111989&p=1555246)
-
Estimated 100 mile times
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CoFZo9ZW8AAH4KM.jpg)
Forumite standings
Wheels of Fire 4:08
zigzag 4:28
rob 4:38
Byronius 4:48
Someone please tell me that George Marshall is on here, otherwise the 4:18 slot will be vacant!
-
Good to see the McNasty tandem setting a decent pace.
-
I think the Berwick tandem might have done a circuit short of the 100 mile mark - but I could be wrong !!!
Some cracking times there - it should be quite an exciting finish this afternoon.
-
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CoHRXT7WEAAbYlE.jpg:large)
12 hour splits.
Tight at the top!
Zigzag at 254.09 and Cygnet at 238.07
Keep on pedalling all!
-
Thanks for the updates. Well done the riders!
-
My Garmin said 462 at 24hrs. Whilst I am happy there is the small issue that the club record is a smidge over 463m.
More later when I have degunked and slept.
-
Provisional results
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CoI_YLdWcAANKL4.jpg:large)
It looks like you might have broken your club record after all, Rob!
Arctic Tacx got the team record, but Pnut/Hoppo fell short of the tandem record, which stands at 501 miles.
Well done to Zigzag, Cygnet and Rob, all in the top ten.
-
Fingers crossed on that club record. That's going to be tight.
Amazing performances - zigzag in particular for a first attempt!
Well done to all and I am sure there are some amazing tales to be told. Huge team performance.
-
Purple yacf shirt on the Hodnet bypass Saturday afternoon? I (#11 and 2009 LEL jersey) waved and gave a thumbs up...
Provisional 282.mumble for me but I think they've missed off a QB lap and it should be 294.mumble. I can't check as I split the ride into two (just in case the Garmin corrupted it) and want to join them before uploading, and they're ~40MB in total. Will faff with it when the next set of results come out and I'm in front of a proper connection in order to check how many laps of each circuit I did.
Missed my target (311 miles for 500km) by bad planning and an unscheduled 90 minute sleep this morning to allow my body to recover (was having problems digesting food). Made loads of other mistakes but the majority of it was great (obviously didn't push hard enough). Fixed was hard work especially as I've barely ridden fixed this year (and not much other riding). Great camaraderie amongst the riders and great offers of help from their supporters.
Powertap hub spent hours trolling me (probably due to a flat battery). Bimbling along at evens and it's telling me I'm putting in 4W for a 3sec average. Now I wish my CdA was that low!
Will need the MIB to be round to erase the bad parts but I might be back in the future.
-
Fingers crossed on that club record. That's going to be tight.
Amazing performances - zigzag in particular for a first attempt!
Well done to all and I am sure there are some amazing tales to be told. Huge team performance.
Record is officially quoted as 463 miles and 508 yards.
Fuck yeah.
-
My second Mersey Roads and it's reminded me that it is such an amazing event. From the standard of marshaling and organisation to the unbelievable support for everyone on the route, it is something any cyclists should experience in some form at the moment.
Delighted with my performance and result, provisional seems to have missed out a lap of the finishing circuit, but I'm pretty sure that will get sorted.
I have never felt this broken. Sat on the sofa now and don't know what to do. I want to eat but can't.
Amazing weekend.
-
Word is that the Pnut/Hoppo tandem have been missed out a lap too, so they should be on 489. 12 miles short of comp record; I wonder if they'll be back?
Well done Byron and everyone, and big (provisional) congrats to Rob!
-
I'm kind of surprised they didn't get it actually, they were motoring every time they came past me. Much respect for racing something like that on a tandem, I can not think of a less pleasurable way of doing it.
-
I'm kind of surprised they didn't get it actually, they were motoring every time they came past me. Much respect for racing something like that on a tandem, I can not think of a less pleasurable way of doing it.
Erm - on your own without a mate on the bike to egg you on? Surely that's worse? Tandems are great for mutual support.
-
How was the traffic this year?
I found it really busy last year and DNFd after being nudged off into a verge by a milk lorry who'd attempted a suicidal overtake.
-
I'm kind of surprised they didn't get it actually, they were motoring every time they came past me. Much respect for racing something like that on a tandem, I can not think of a less pleasurable way of doing it.
They were flagging someone down for a wheel right at the end. I had about 10 mins to go. They would have had a bit longer. I did see them stopped quite a lot and feeding at the side of the road.
-
Fingers crossed on that club record. That's going to be tight.
Amazing performances - zigzag in particular for a first attempt!
Well done to all and I am sure there are some amazing tales to be told. Huge team performance.
Record is officially quoted as 463 miles and 508 yards.
Fuck yeah.
Excellent! Everyone was thinking you had just missed it.
-
The MIB work quickly. :o
-
The MIB work quickly. :o
They seem really good at getting the results out. The ESCA took a couple of weeks in 2014.
-
Some stunning rides there, but well done to everyone.
That was me wearing the purple YACF jersey on Saturday and it felt really muggy/humid just riding round some of the course, although I guess it would have improved during the night.
I rode down from Hodnet to Shawbirch but could find no roadworks except on Shawbirch Island itself and with just a few cones around it.
-
Delighted with my performance and result, provisional seems to have missed out a lap of the finishing circuit, but I'm pretty sure that will get sorted.
From the Mersey Roads FB page (https://www.facebook.com/MerseyRoads24/posts/1050681951674504)Provisional result, we are already in the process of rectifying some queries. Please let us know if there are any more by email to oggy_merseyroads@hotmail.com
-
Thanks Ian, I'll get in touch with them.
-
that was an experience! dived into a deep end with my first tt and while my body wasn't prepared for such an abuse, overall the race went very well. favourable weather, superb organisation, caring support from Ian H made the ride go as smooth as possible. we had a bunny-hopping competition with no79 throughout the event - makes it interesting to follow what the rider of the same ability is going through (in the finishing circuit the numbering order was preserved :)). i have achieved my main targets of riding more than 720km and stopping for less than 10min, came back in one piece and the bike is still clean as if nothing has happened (can't say the same about my ailing body..). a massive thank you to everyone who made it happen and congratulations to the riders for stepping up and digging deep.
race stats on strava (https://www.strava.com/activities/652541692)
-
Some awesome rides there. Well done all.
(rob, you are still my total hero role model. Top ride)
-
I took a look at the Bolton Iron Man Triathlon last week. That had 2,500 participants at £400 each, and featured over 100km of closed roads for over 8 hours. I chatted to a marshal, they get paid the National Living Wage. You can still get timed-out for your £400, but you do get an ankle bracelet.
The '24' costs £20, and for that you get marshalling for 24 hours, feeding if you want, and you can go as fast as you are capable, or as slow as you want.
The variable speed aspect is what causes the problems with the result. The course in the booklet is just a guideline. In theory the fastest riders follow that route. This year they went off very quickly, so the fastest did an extra 'Quina Brook'. We expected riders a 22.30 at Espley, but the first turned up at 23.00.
Other problems derive from covered numbers, and riders who stop for prolonged periods.
People imagine that it's a single event. But it's the National Championship first, the VTTA Championship second, and a sort of Audax third.
The National Championship just needs to sort out the first 3 riders, male and female. The VTTA is more complex, and the Audax bit is bedevilled with riders stopping for extended breaks. Trackers would solve a lot of problems, but the event would cost more than £20.
It's already a subscription event. People find it amazing that the volunteers do it without any payment, shouldering their own expenses, but lots of them also subscribe to the event, and are listed in the schedule. Then we see the event constantly shifted to the Racing section, when we're paying and volunteering to enable fellow Audaxers to see how far they can get in 24 Hours. A high number of riders said this was their first ever TT.
-
Just a sec Rob, I didn't realise you rode fixed? Smother me in Torq gel and throw me to the lycra-clad testers, you're a mentalist!
(http://www.kimroy-photography.co.uk/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=513106&g2_serialNumber=1)
-
ESL, it's the community spirit that makes the Mersey Roads so special. It only exists because of that spirit, whereas a lot of commercial events try to force the issue; I know I've done sportives where everything is bigged up by the organisers but it all feels a little fake and shallow (not that I want to be sportive-bashing because I've done and enjoyed quite a few).
On the Mersey Roads, it's just people riding their bikes and all the supporters, marshals and organisers, who are just doing it for the love of the sport, are the ones that really make it special.
-
Well done everyone!
wheelsoffire? Why you no helmet? Aero bro? Too hot?
-
I think we covered the Triathlon pricing
bashing elsewhere so not going to dig it up here, certainly not in this thread. Mersey Roads was £30 to enter.
Anyway, got home half an hour ago after an early start from Wrexham and contemplating going for a swim this afternoon and then 5-a-side football tonight.
Other problems derive from covered numbers, and riders who stop for prolonged periods.
That'll be me (I had a 90 minute stop after a Quina Brook lap, it was meant to be a quick bottle refill stop but I was feeling rubbish so tried to sleep it off). I've scraped my GPX file for the timings and sent in the details of my start/end times for each different lap including times I went past the timekeepers (two on QB, one at Hodnet) so hopefully that should make it as painless as possible for the timekeeper to resolve.
-
5 a side? My word that's impressive. The walk from the sofa to the fridge is proving difficult enough right now :-D
-
Some excellent rides there, well done to everyone who took part (particularly the helpers).
-
On PBP last year Heather interviewed Maya Ide at Sizun on the return. She was sitting on the kerb outside the supermarket eating a quiche.
She said what she really liked was the freedom, being like a homeless person, who can lie down and sleep anywhere.
Supporting on the 24 turns you into a Gypsy, you find a road verge and make camp, get out the stove and put a brew on. In the morning you strike camp and move on. Motorists might shout at you, and make gestures, but you don't care.
The riders get some abuse too, and the odd thing thrown at them. Other drivers signal approval, some of the truckers clearly know what's going on, and have respect for those who can go so many miles on carbohydrates and caffeine.
We got two motorists joking that they wanted two sugars as we brewed up on the roundabout, and tended the disposable barbecue.
-
Well I DNF'd :(
I was going well, averaging slightly over 19mph for the first 100, my target was a modest 400 miles this year. Then the knee issue I had been carrying since the National 100 started to make its presence felt. The first two laps of Quina Brook were good but then the rot set in and people I had been passing began passing me. I did another two laps but in my mind I had already decided to call it a day. Ultimately I could have continued but I didn't want to jeopardise my attempt in the Breckland 12.
-
i have achieved my main targets of riding more than 720km and stopping for less than 10min
Less than 10 minutes for the whole 24 hours? An astonishing ride, well done.
Also congratulations to Greenbank - hardly any riding at all, by the sound of it, then a 24 hr tt.
-
The MIB work quickly. :o
They seem really good at getting the results out. The ESCA took a couple of weeks in 2014.
I meant the people that come round and erase the bad memories.
Already considering entering next year and not making the same mistakes (there's a whole load of new mistakes I can make instead).
5 a side? My word that's impressive. The walk from the sofa to the fridge is proving difficult enough right now :-D
Just shows I didn't give it my all. Only 19:50:44 moving time.
-
i have achieved my main targets of riding more than 720km and stopping for less than 10min
Less than 10 minutes for the whole 24 hours? An astonishing ride, well done.
yes, only 6 minutes stopped (three small toilet breaks, front light on/off, re-attaching flappy race number etc.), credit to super efficient support from Ian H
-
Just a sec Rob, I didn't realise you rode fixed? Smother me in Torq gel and throw me to the lycra-clad testers, you're a mentalist!
(http://www.kimroy-photography.co.uk/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=513106&g2_serialNumber=1)
Yeah - 88". That little climb on the finishing circuit was winding me up so I was very fortunate to time out just before the HQ.
Just got home after the 200 mile drive and had trouble getting out the car. Heading to the Evelina children's hospital next to see how junior is getting on. Will write something more coherent when I have come down from the weekend.
-
Well done everyone!
wheelsoffire? Why you no helmet? Aero bro? Too hot?
Chatted to him at the finish. Said he got too hot. I left mine on, but I was getting through a lot more water than expected.
-
i have achieved my main targets of riding more than 720km and stopping for less than 10min
Less than 10 minutes for the whole 24 hours? An astonishing ride, well done.
yes, only 6 minutes stopped (three small toilet breaks, front light on/off, re-attaching flappy race number etc.), credit to super efficient support from Ian H
Wow, now that is impressive! I thought I was doing well with 30 minutes stopped. Just goes to show that there's always areas for improvement...
-
Just a sec...
Have you a link to the album that photo came from? I can't get to it from the URL provided and can't find an obvious MR24 album starting from scratch...
Nevermind, found it: http://www.kimroy-photography.co.uk/gallery2/main.php?g2_itemId=512642
-
my key learning (and mistake) from from analysing data from this tt is that i was calculating my schedule based on my performance on a road bike and not taking into account the change of position and associated reduction of output when riding a tt bike. if i was able to hold 170w for the whole ride (which is pretty easy on a road/audax bike) that would have taken me comfortably above the magic 500 miles.
the moral - train and spend as much time as possible on a tt bike if tt's are your main focus (i've hardly done any rides in tt position, less time in total than during the last weekend..).
-
Bugger! Better practise my running.
-
Bugger! Better practise my running.
you should be riding next year! :)
=====
for the riders - if you feel a bit down after the race (or other big challenge) here are some good tips (http://cyclingtips.com/2016/04/how-to-beat-the-dreaded-post-race-blues/)
-
my key learning (and mistake) from from analysing data from this tt is that i was calculating my schedule based on my performance on a road bike and not taking into account the change of position and associated reduction of output when riding a tt bike. if i was able to hold 170w for the whole ride (which is pretty easy on a road/audax bike) that would have taken me comfortably above the magic 500 miles.
the moral - train and spend as much time as possible on a tt bike if tt's are your main focus (i've hardly done any rides in tt position, less time in total than during the last weekend..).
You must be pretty flexible. Getting a position I can hold for the duration has taken a lot of time, money and pain. For the record I did 4-5hrs per week in TT position on the turbo all Winter. I have been doing 4-5 hour road rides including 3 100m TTs since about April. The longest ride was 10hrs which I did 4 weeks ago.
My lower back and neck are wrecked today, but I had pre-booked an osteopath session for Saturday morning. Will ride to work tomorrow, gently.
-
Well done everyone!
wheelsoffire? Why you no helmet? Aero bro? Too hot?
Yes, indeed - started with Bambino plus visor but body temp was going through the roof. Even after I took it off, it took so long to cool down, I was pouring water over my head and down my back.
It went back on for the second half of the night.
Good luck for next week fella, I will be following with interest :)
-
My friend Will Amlot came to support for the event - he was the guy at Tern Hill with the megaphone and taking the photos on Quina Brook. He is a photographer by trade and has taken some awesome, I think, photos such as this one of Victor:
(https://s32.postimg.org/w3m3vu1cl/MR_Will_Victor.jpg)
See the whole image gallery here:
http://goo.gl/QGFuTi
-
My friend Will Amlot came to support for the event - he was the guy at Tern Hill with the megaphone and taking the photos on Quina Brook. He is a photographer by trade and has taken some awesome, I think, photos such as this one of Victor:
(https://s32.postimg.org/w3m3vu1cl/MR_Will_Victor.jpg)
See the whole image gallery here:
http://goog.gl/QGFuTi
Hi Mike - can't get that link to work ? Would love to take a look.
Well done on another great ride.
Cheers
Rob
-
Hi Mike - can't get that link to work ? Would love to take a look.
Well done on another great ride.
Cheers
Rob
Fixed :)
-
I've knocked up a 9 minute video from a small portion of the stuff we shot. One day I might make a full-length film. But that's quite an undertaking, there are so many possible angles to take.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bcLJXaYr3_o
-
my key learning (and mistake) from from analysing data from this tt is that i was calculating my schedule based on my performance on a road bike and not taking into account the change of position and associated reduction of output when riding a tt bike. if i was able to hold 170w for the whole ride (which is pretty easy on a road/audax bike) that would have taken me comfortably above the magic 500 miles.
the moral - train and spend as much time as possible on a tt bike if tt's are your main focus (i've hardly done any rides in tt position, less time in total than during the last weekend..).
Yes - everyone generates less power in a TT position, but you need to train in that position to optimise.
Great to hear that you are already planning for next year!
-
my key learning (and mistake) from from analysing data from this tt is that i was calculating my schedule based on my performance on a road bike and not taking into account the change of position and associated reduction of output when riding a tt bike. if i was able to hold 170w for the whole ride (which is pretty easy on a road/audax bike) that would have taken me comfortably above the magic 500 miles.
the moral - train and spend as much time as possible on a tt bike if tt's are your main focus (i've hardly done any rides in tt position, less time in total than during the last weekend..).
You must be pretty flexible. Getting a position I can hold for the duration has taken a lot of time, money and pain. For the record I did 4-5hrs per week in TT position on the turbo all Winter. I have been doing 4-5 hour road rides including 3 100m TTs since about April. The longest ride was 10hrs which I did 4 weeks ago.
My lower back and neck are wrecked today, but I had pre-booked an osteopath session for Saturday morning. Will ride to work tomorrow, gently.
I fear it might be age-related, Rob! I had no problem holding a decent aero position on long TTs - until the Newbury 12 hour last year, when my neck rebelled. After much physio and 6 months of yoga, it's slowly improving: hope your rehab is a bit quicker!
-
My friend Will Amlot came to support for the event - he was the guy at Tern Hill with the megaphone and taking the photos on Quina Brook. He is a photographer by trade and has taken some awesome, I think, photos such as this one of Victor:
(https://s32.postimg.org/w3m3vu1cl/MR_Will_Victor.jpg)
See the whole image gallery here:
http://goo.gl/QGFuTi
Stunning photos, I just bought mine. ;D
-
Congratulations to Wheels of Fire retaining his title.
It's hard to believe it's only 3 years since my first 24 (and first open TT to boot). I've learned a lot during that. 10% improvement on distance with 8% more climbing.
It was noticeable how little of a front profile Mike had. Zigzag came closest to matching that I think. Maybe next time I'll try lowering the bars again but I don't want to risk my neck.
If Byron gets his extra lap I think he'll pip me for 9th spot: interesting that from ESL'S video it looks like we both ran out of time at TK2. I'd quite like to stay top ten though.
-
If Byron gets his extra lap I think he'll pip me for 9th spot: interesting that from ESL'S video it looks like we both ran out of time at TK2. I'd quite like to stay top ten though.
Sorry Cygnet, I'm not sure of your real name (are you Philip?). I've had confirmation of my new distance from the oganiser and it's 456.31...by my reckoning, comparing to the most recent provisional results on Facebook, that puts me in 11th place.
Would have been dead happy with that beforehand, but slightly disappointing to miss out on the top ten by 0.06 of a mile! Unfortunately, this clearly resigns me to having to do it again, to see if I can get in the top 10. Still 30 miles short of our club record though.
-
I've knocked up a 9 minute video from a small portion of the stuff we shot. One day I might make a full-length film. But that's quite an undertaking, there are so many possible angles to take.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bcLJXaYr3_o
Thanks for that Damon, brought back some of the memories. I think you were being quite tactful when you said I didn't look too bad at the end...I look wrecked! I hadn't even registered the fact that you were filming at the time either.
-
Thank you to the chap in the Dulwich Top who was very helpful to Mrs Revellinho when I was riding and confusion reigned. :thumbsup: Off on the ferry now for some more gentle riding in France.
-
I've knocked up a 9 minute video from a small portion of the stuff we shot. One day I might make a full-length film. But that's quite an undertaking, there are so many possible angles to take.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bcLJXaYr3_o
Thanks for that Damon, brought back some of the memories. I think you were being quite tactful when you said I didn't look too bad at the end...I look wrecked! I hadn't even registered the fact that you were filming at the time either.
We used 5 different cameras. The least obvious is a Canon Mini X, which looks like a sound recorder. We trialled it at the 24 last year, which was a rehearsal for PBP.
I've been experimenting with using a Sony Action Cam at a fixed angle on the motorbike, so I can film moving riders without obstructing them, that gives TdeF style footage.
Dave and I went to the Sheffield premiere of the film about the Trans America Race, which got us thinking about the intersection of PBP, LEL, rides such as the Mille Pennines, and the 24.
The key factor seems to be support. The 'Barebones' idea seems to have a lot of currency, and the 24 would seem to be the polar opposite, but it's actually pretty inclusive, with no cut-off time, and the organisation cater for the self-supporting.
-
I just queried my mileage as I couldn't reconcile it to the handbook, honest bloke that I am.
Apparently the spreadsheet had a bug and everyone is overstated by 1.9miles. My final distance was 461.39m. Doesn't change my placing but no club record any more.
-
:'(
-
If Byron gets his extra lap I think he'll pip me for 9th spot: interesting that from ESL'S video it looks like we both ran out of time at TK2. I'd quite like to stay top ten though.
Sorry Cygnet, I'm not sure of your real name (are you Philip?). I've had confirmation of my new distance from the oganiser and it's 456.31...by my reckoning, comparing to the most recent provisional results on Facebook, that puts me in 11th place.
Would have been dead happy with that beforehand, but slightly disappointing to miss out on the top ten by 0.06 of a mile! Unfortunately, this clearly resigns me to having to do it again, to see if I can get in the top 10. Still 30 miles short of our club record though.
Hi Byron, no I am Sam (Dulwich). Given your revised distance and both finishing between TK1 and 2 I have queried mine; I can't reconcile my provisional with your checked distance. So you may be good for the Top 10 ahead of me yet.
Edit: I see Rob's post about the bug. That makes a bit more sense.
-
I just queried my mileage as I couldn't reconcile it to the handbook, honest bloke that I am.
Apparently the spreadsheet had a bug and everyone is overstated by 1.9miles. My final distance was 461.39m. Doesn't change my placing but no club record any more.
Bad luck, Rob!
Only consolation is that it is probably the only thing you could have done that could earn you more respect from your club than actually breaking the record.
-
Gutted for you Rob. That is a heartbreaker for sure.
-
You have to feel for George Marshall, suddenly he's hasn't done 500 miles plus. Zigzag now falls below evens, but he's thinking in metric anyway.
-
If Byron gets his extra lap I think he'll pip me for 9th spot: interesting that from ESL'S video it looks like we both ran out of time at TK2. I'd quite like to stay top ten though.
Sorry Cygnet, I'm not sure of your real name (are you Philip?). I've had confirmation of my new distance from the oganiser and it's 456.31...by my reckoning, comparing to the most recent provisional results on Facebook, that puts me in 11th place.
Would have been dead happy with that beforehand, but slightly disappointing to miss out on the top ten by 0.06 of a mile! Unfortunately, this clearly resigns me to having to do it again, to see if I can get in the top 10. Still 30 miles short of our club record though.
Hi Byron, no I am Sam (Dulwich). Given your revised distance and both finishing between TK1 and 2 I have queried mine; I can't reconcile my provisional with your checked distance. So you may be good for the Top 10 ahead of me yet.
Edit: I see Rob's post about the bug. That makes a bit more sense.
Ah okay, it's all a bit confusing then. Not sure if the revised distance I've been given accounts that that error or not. We'll just wait and see I guess.
Think I remember waving to you a few times as we passed and said hello in the HQ afterwards - I remember because you looked how I felt!
-
Fingers crossed on that club record. That's going to be tight.
Amazing performances - zigzag in particular for a first attempt!
Well done to all and I am sure there are some amazing tales to be told. Huge team performance.
Record is officially quoted as 463 miles and 508 yards.
Fuck yeah.
Now there's an Internet posting I'm going to regret for some time.....
-
is there an updated spreadsheed posted anywhere (can't find it on the official mersey roads fb page)? my garmin showed 772.xx km at 24hrs so if the official mileage is not too far out i'm happy :thumbsup:
-
No, nothing uploaded yet.
I got my missing QB lap added, but my increase was 2.2 miles less than the stated QB lap distance.
I'm about 2.5 miles down on my Garmin distance, but that's understandable given the vagaries of GPS distance measurement and also it took just over 3 minutes to reach the next timekeeper after my 24h was up and only stopped the GPS then.
-
New post on the FB page with updated results:-
https://www.facebook.com/MerseyRoads24/posts/1051812911561408
-
To steal a line:
Unfortunately, this clearly resigns me to having to do it again, to see if I can get in the top 10.
-
Still gathering my thoughts before I try and write any of it up.
The major stat is that I had a sum total of 58h on the/any bike in the whole of 2016 before starting this ride (this includes commuting!) Only 766 miles. My only Audax in 2016 was a single 200. Hardly great prep.
I've also never finished a 400km Audax in less than 24 hours, and have never completed a 600km Audax in anything under 39 hours (and the most sleep I've had on a 600 is 15 minutes so it's not as if I was lounging around).
So I'm very happy with clocking up 292.39 miles with only 19h50 moving time. Goes to show what sheer bloody-mindedness and grim determination can do.
No energy drink (hadn't trained on it, hadn't really trained, and didn't want to risk it on the day); just bidons of Robinson's lemon squash and electrolyte tablets, a few gels and food from petrol stations, the chippy and one hotdog from the Espley feed.
Will definitely be back for another go, but a little better prepared. Probably still unsupported (at least throughout the night when small people need to sleep). Maybe not 2017 but the year after for sure.
I reckon I can put at least another 108+ miles on with better prep, more aero bike/wheels, improved fitness, consistent use of aerobars, and feeding on the bike to keep time off the bike to under an hour.
-
Well done, Greenbank - well done everyone!
-
Thank you to the chap in the Dulwich Top who was very helpful to Mrs Revellinho when I was riding and confusion reigned. :thumbsup: Off on the ferry now for some more gentle riding in France.
Paul, if I'm converting correctly, you've done a 600 in 24 hours - is that right? I'm mightily impressed - though not surprised. Were you wearing the red socks?
peter
-
To steal a line:
Unfortunately, this clearly resigns me to having to do it again, to see if I can get in the top 10.
As at last night I wasn't going to do it again. What a difference 24hrs makes.
GPS says I stopped for 13 mins. 2 of that was trying to pee early evening and failing. Probably little to be gained there. Need to sort my back out. I'm wondering if I need a TT bike with gears.
-
Thank you to the chap in the Dulwich Top who was very helpful to Mrs Revellinho when I was riding and confusion reigned. :thumbsup: Off on the ferry now for some more gentle riding in France.
Paul, if I'm converting correctly, you've done a 600 in 24 hours - is that right? I'm mightily impressed - though not surprised. Were you wearing the red socks?
peter
No - should have done as I wore spanky leg warmers at night and the grippy bits gave me blisters. Rode it on my 'tt' bike not my audax bike... a Genesis flyer with 77".
-
I tried to give blood yesterday but couldn't - I failed the haemoglobin test. My score of 12.3 was well below the threshold of 'normal' which is 13.5, so I've now been banned from donating for a year :facepalm:
By coincidence I donated on the Tuesday after the Mersey in 2015, and all was fine.
-
I tried to give blood yesterday but couldn't - I failed the haemoglobin test. My score of 12.3 was well below the threshold of 'normal' which is 13.5, so I've now been banned from donating for a year :facepalm:
By coincidence I donated on the Tuesday after the Mersey in 2015, and all was fine.
for that reason i only donate in november and march, after the cycling season is over and before it starts. kudos to you for doing a good deed.
-
I tried to give blood yesterday but couldn't - I failed the haemoglobin test. My score of 12.3 was well below the threshold of 'normal' which is 13.5, so I've now been banned from donating for a year :facepalm:
By coincidence I donated on the Tuesday after the Mersey in 2015, and all was fine.
for that reason i only donate in november and march, after the cycling season is over and before it starts. kudos to you for doing a good deed.
Bad luck on that on Michael, but indeed kudos for keeping it up dung the season.
I just keep donating throughout the year, but I've never had one fall that close after a big event.
-
I tried to give blood yesterday but couldn't - I failed the haemoglobin test. My score of 12.3 was well below the threshold of 'normal' which is 13.5, so I've now been banned from donating for a year :facepalm:
By coincidence I donated on the Tuesday after the Mersey in 2015, and all was fine.
Welcome to my world - I have thick blood, thanks to genetic clotting disorder but low red cell count, thanks to who knows what. Negative EPO...
-
When I got my results from my blood tests from the physiologist/nutritionist during my HAMR ride last year, I was found to be borderline anemic (among other issues) Iron simply gets used up and you need to eat lots of it. I was advised to eat more lean red meat. I did and further tests when I had the stomach trouble showed a big improvement.
I take strong iron supplements as well now.
-
I spoke to Mark Florence on the TT podcast again tonight about the outcome of the Mersey Roads 24 and our new competition record :)
Make tea, find comfy chair, listen.
http://cyclingtimetrialpodcast.libsyn.com/
-
Thanks WoF...I am starting to get that post big event comedown feeling so maybe that will help! Guess I'd better enter something else before I start getting too fat and lazy. Never done a 12 hour but it just doesn't appeal right now.
-
Thanks WoF...I am starting to get that post big event comedown feeling so maybe that will help! Guess I'd better enter something else before I start getting too fat and lazy. Never done a 12 hour but it just doesn't appeal right now.
Me too. I'm supposed to be packing for a family trip to France... but I just feel very tired ::-)
-
Write up I did for club newsletter here :-
The decision to ride another 24hr time trial appeared not long after my first attempt in 2014. I had targeted 400 miles and achieved 410 on the lumpy ESCA course. Despite over-achieving I felt that I could have done better having had issues with feeding, drinking, back pain and, eventually, a collapsed neck. Nevertheless I achieved 18th place in a National Championship.
2015 was filled with some more time trialling and my 5th Paris-Brest-Paris. I worked on my position and acquired some new aero equipment before settling into some hard Winter training.
The Mersey Roads 24hr takes place on roads on the Shropshire/Cheshire borders very close to Whitchurch. It lends itself to faster rides by virtue of the fact that it is quite compact. Studying the course with my supporters (Richard Thomas and Chris Tracey) we worked out they could camp out at the same roundabout – Prees Heath - for virtually the whole of the event and I would be passing there in different directions from Saturday afternoon through to Sunday morning.
I had tested my nutrition and hydration on a series of recent training rides settling on a mixture of Zipvit gels and Torq energy bars, providing me with just over 60g of carbohydrate per hour. Hydration would come from Hi-5 hydration tablets dissolved in plain water. With a new large top-tube bag I could carry 6hrs worth of food so planned to stop at 6, 12 and 18hrs to refill the bag. On the 6hr stop I would pick up a tracksuit top, lights and reflective kit. I would then give this all back at the 18hr stop. I chose to ride my usual fixed wheel TT bike but lowered the gear slightly to 50*15 (88”).
We arrived early and I spent a fair amount of time faffing with race numbers on my skinsuit and my night jacket. I met Catford member Keith Hyatt and chatted briefly about other Catford riders and the history of the event. My start time was 14:17 and I strolled around the start area watching the early starters go off one-by-one. It felt quite humid at the time so I continued to drink and tried to stay out of the sun. My start time came round quite soon and I rolled away, joining the main road for the 16 mile ride to the main circuits. On the way down I spotted Dave ‘El Supremo’ Hudson in a lay-by who had driven up from Sussex to spectate. I noticed my heart rate running a little higher than normal on the climbs and tried to keep a lid on it by breathing steadily and controlling my RPE. I put this down to the humid conditions and made sure I kept drinking.
From here I rode 2 legs of the main circuit which involved heading to Espley and back and then Battlebridge and back, twice. The leg from Prees Heath to Battlebridge turned out to be quite lumpy so I tried to ride easily on the climbs and not over extend myself. After this point we joined the 13 mile Quina Brook circuit. I did one lap and then stopped with my support team. I had been getting through a bottle each lap and was still thirsty. I noticed a few riders had removed their helmets so figured they were feeling the heat as well. I put my extra layer on, refilled my food bag, fitted lights and was off. I continued to complete 4 more circuits before being moved onto the night circuit as it got dark.
The night circuit is a 20 mile out-and-back course from Prees Heath to Espley and back. The first leg had some rolling hills before a flat and fast run along the Hodnet by-pass. I had a nagging feeling that I had been pushing too hard so decided to take the night leg a bit easier and turned the light off on my GPS in order to ride by feel. On each lap I picked up a bottle, making sure that I had emptied the last one. At around midnight I spotted Peter Hayes and Steve Airey who had made the trip up to provide support overnight. At around 2am I made my second stop and picked up additional food. Shortly after I checked my 12hr distance which showed on the GPS as 245 miles. This was only 13 miles short of my 12hr PB.
Staying hydrated, I was managing to feed well without any stomach problems. My neck and shoulders ached, but I was stretching out regularly and able to get onto my aero bars for most of the circuit, riding out of the saddle on the climbs. I completed 7 laps of the night circuit as the sun had risen and was moved back onto the Quina Brook circuit. It was a welcome return to a slightly more interesting laney route with only one climb. I started to get some discomfort from my lower back and my feet began to hurt but, at the same time, my neck started to feel better. The last 6hrs were going to be quite interesting.
At around 8am I made my third and final stop, dumping jacket and lights and picking up my last stock of food. Whilst taking the jacket off my left arm cramped up and I had to be helped out. After a couple more hours of riding I was routed back towards the finishing circuit. I was briefly elated, knowing I was getting towards the back end of the event, only to realise there were still 4hrs to race. The run back to the finishing circuit was fast and had a tailwind and I felt good despite my back starting to hurt. My average speed was running at 19.6mph at this point. Knowing that an average of 19.3 would get me the club record I started to entertain thoughts of maybe beating it. The finishing circuit was quite technical with a few bends, a couple of drags and one climb. The pain in my back and feet started to get worse and I was crawling on the drags but riding quickly on the flat, still using the aero bars.
Richard and Chris were outside the event HQ, handing me bottles each time round. I also spotted that Richard Parrotte had joined them. The atmosphere on the finishing circuit was outstanding with all helpers and supporters cheering you on and applauding each time round. I was starting to wish I could put a better show on. With about 45 mins to go I passed the HQ and estimated I would do one more lap. I was feeling a little wobbly so emptied what was left of my food bag and re-packed with jelly babies for that last gasp sugar kick. Eating a couple every mile I pushed harder checking the time as I passed each time keeper. I saw my clock tick over 24hrs and put a final sprint in to pass the last timekeeper with 24:02 on the stopwatch. My GPS said 462 miles, about a mile and a half short of the club record.
It was about 500 yards to where Chris and Richard were sitting and I was helped off my bike to sit in a deck chair. I removed my shoes and socks and emptied my last bottle. It’s an odd feeling finishing an event like this. It’s something short of elation as you’re too exhausted and in too much pain to process any rational thought. I mingled around the HQ for a while, congratulating others on their rides and being congratulated by others.
It was clear that Mike Broadwith had won again and the Arctic Tacx had added over 100 miles to the team competition record, with all 3 riders doing over 500 miles. Mike also complained of the heat and sore feet. In the end he did 2 miles less than the previous year and was given 532.8 miles. The first 4 riders all did over 500 miles.
When all the processing was finished I was given 9th place and 461.4 miles. I had added 51 miles to my PB and missed the club record by 2 miles. Downloading my GPS a few days later it showed that I had only been stopped for 13 minutes in the whole 24 hours.
Would I do anything different if I tried again ? I think I’d likely ride without a helmet or one that was better vented. I probably wouldn’t use overshoes again as I think the small aero benefit is outweighed by the additional heat and resultant ‘hot-foot’. It took a week for my legs to recover and stairs were very difficult for 2-3 days. I had my neck and back loosened by my osteopath after a week. The base of my left foot is still very sore and I have been ide packing it to reduce the swelling. I think I would do more long weekend rides and less speed work. It is definitely comfort issues that are the main problem as I’m sure my legs can go further.
Thanks to everyone that supported me on the weekend and through the long hours of training.
Will I try again ? I don’t know. My focus is on riding the Breckland 12hr in early September and then taking a bit of a break.
-
nice writeup rob, i've been visiting physio/massage therapist today to have my back and neck muscles untangled - feels good!!
i've made a few rookie mistakes that cost me a couple of miles - 1) hitting a pothole, losing water bottle and retracing to collect it, 2) not attaching my race number properly, so needing to stop to attach it with pins, 3) going the wrong exit on the roundabout where i should have exited for quina brook circuit.
without these "issues" my stopped time would have been 3min (cost = 1mile), i'm happy to accept it as my limit
-
The Osteopath worked on my back and neck on Saturday morning. My neck is still a bit sore. In good news I'm back to pre-race weight.
I've done a couple of turbo sessions this week and will try a long ride on the TT bike on Sunday.
I can't find any glaring errors in the way my ride went. The legs managed OK, but it's the rest of me that gives out over time. I probably need a Winter of more core work.
-
Sounds like you're already analysing in preparation for the next one ;-)
-
Rob, it's interesting that you say you would do more long rides and less speed work, as I believe it is the exact opposite that gave me an improvement in my distance this year. My riding has mostly focused on speed work, with my longest rides being 140 miles in the Tour of Flanders Sportive and a 100 mile TT. I don't think I've done any other rides over 100 miles this year.
To be honest, I was worried beforehand that this would cause problems after 10-12 hours, but that never transpired.
-
Rob, it's interesting that you say you would do more long rides and less speed work, as I believe it is the exact opposite that gave me an improvement in my distance this year. My riding has mostly focused on speed work, with my longest rides being 140 miles in the Tour of Flanders Sportive and a 100 mile TT. I don't think I've done any other rides over 100 miles this year.
To be honest, I was worried beforehand that this would cause problems after 10-12 hours, but that never transpired.
Last year was my first year of structured turbo work combined with PBP qualification and training. A real mix of long miles and hard efforts. My times improved massively at all distances. This year I did a lot of turbo work all on the TT bike, but most of my road rides were about 100 miles. I did one 200 mile ride about 6 weeks before the race, so was gambling on holding my endurance fitness from previous years.
If I trained for an event like this again I would do a few more long rides of 200-250 miles on the TT bike. For me it will be about being able to keep the power down right to the end and have a more consistent split.
I'm really not sure about going again. I have neglected a lot of family and work issues this year, so I have some catching up to do.
-
New post on the FB page with updated results:-
https://www.facebook.com/MerseyRoads24/posts/1051812911561408
Is there an official final result yet? The facebook link is to a revised provisional result, so I won't go to the trouble of updating my original provisional result list for AUK purposes just yet. It looks like Chris Hopkinson on the Tandem is the highest ranked Audax member, with Rimas Grigenas not far behind. I can hardly wait for the final confirmation.
-
Forget all the winners – McNasty rode his 57th 24hr.
-
Is there an official final result yet? The facebook link is to a revised provisional result, so I won't go to the trouble of updating my original provisional result list for AUK purposes just yet. It looks like Chris Hopkinson on the Tandem is the highest ranked Audax member, with Rimas Grigenas not far behind. I can hardly wait for the final confirmation.
i think the final results are here (https://www.cyclingtimetrials.org.uk/race-results/12258) (as confirmed to me via email)
Forget all the winners – McNasty rode his 57 24hr.
respect to McNasty, it was good to see him live in action! :thumbsup:
-
CTT have just published their official video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACfxDtX18k4) of this year's Mersey Roads. I can see several people we know, and lots of thousand yard stares.
-
CTT have just published their official video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACfxDtX18k4) of this year's Mersey Roads. I can see several people we know, and lots of thousand yard stares.
I was talking about the film with Michael Broadwith at the Mersey Roads dinner on the Saturday before last. Jill Wilkinson was the guest speaker, and Andy Wilkinson was there, as was Chris Hopkinson. It was a real privilege to be able to discuss the long distance cycling scene in such company.
Hoppo's got some interesting plans with UMCA, Michael fancies a go at LEJOG, and Wilko is concentrating on helping Jill to try to get the Ladies 12 hour record, now that she's had her iron deficiency diagnosed.
-
Excellent film. Many thanks for sharing.
I must do this one year..... when I say "do" I mean sit by the road and watch or help a rider out! There is no way I can ride for six hours without sleep let alone 24. I think the riders who do this are very special indeed.
-
CTT have just published their official video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACfxDtX18k4) of this year's Mersey Roads. I can see several people we know, and lots of thousand yard stares.
I was talking about the film with Michael Broadwith at the Mersey Roads dinner on the Saturday before last. Jill Wilkinson was the guest speaker, and Andy Wilkinson was there, as was Chris Hopkinson. It was a real privilege to be able to discuss the long distance cycling scene in such company.
Hoppo's got some interesting plans with UMCA, Michael fancies a go at LEJOG, and Wilko is concentrating on helping Jill to try to get the Ladies 12 hour record, now that she's had her iron deficiency diagnosed.
What a lot of names you've dropped! Are you sure Beryl Burton and Tony Martin weren't there too? ;)
When was Jilko's iron problem diagnosed? Did she have it at the time of her 12 this year?
-
I hadn't realised that Mersey Roads are a very small club. I'd envisaged them as a consortium of clubs coming together to mount 12s and 24s.
There were about 30 at the dinner, over half were guests. All the trophies apart from the 24 were won by a single Mersey Roads rider, one of the Williams family, who are the backbone of the 24. When it's called a 'family event' that's almost literally true.
Heather and I got an invite, and we had a hedging competition in Yorkshire on the same day, so that made more sense than the AUK reunion. I was a bit surprised to find so much depth of talent.
It was the ideal setting for Jill to try out a more personal type of speaking, as she was among those who knew about long distance. She was diagnosed before the Breckland 12, which was windy. There's a feeling that she or Bronwen Ewing stand a chance of the record next year.
Michael was there with his son, and received a huge trophy for the team win, he was due to go on a tour of Anfield, and then home on the train.
(https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/14991973_1143395075736524_8324810500820076564_n.jpg?oh=a70d8ea4edd59986c7c4ced941e6027d&oe=58D406F2)
-
My I was climbing that hill slowly towards the end.