Ladies Track Sessions

Why this section?   Well, while the photos taken at the track give an indication of what goes on, the visuals do not do justice to the depth and extent of knowledge that is being passed on from the more experienced to the lesser, or those just starting out.  This section hopes to capture some of what is covered.  Read it in bite size chunks!

Who?   The "leaders" read like a Who’s Who of Jersey Cycling and are as follows:

Sue Munns – Raced at the Commonwealth Games in 1998 in Kuala Lumpa and represented Britain in the Tour of Portugal and the Tour of Majorca.  A UK Cat 1 rider and TT specialist who started out in triathlon.

Toby Aubert – Raced at the Commonwealth Games in 1990, Represented Jersey in the Island Games 5 times and was a medallist (at least once) each time.

Bob Cabot – A top Vet Cyclist and Bicycle Shop Owner.  Has won the JCA Road Race 6 times!

Andy Munns – Current racer in the World Police and Fire Games.  One of the all round top Vets in Jersey, who also started out in Triathlon.

Mike Mitchinson – Track Specialist diversifying into Time Trialling.  If you are a vet; one to watch out for! 

What are the objectives of the Ladies Sessions?

Our objectives are to bring vibrancy to the ladies race scene in Jersey, encourage safe riding and build confidence, ability and teamwork by teaching useful skills and techniques.

Who are you?

You are a lady who is interested, not just in cycling, but racing!  You want to experience the thrills and excitement of the track, of "cornering at speed", of riding around "at pace" and of "riding the wheels" to conserve energy so you can "go for breaks" and ultimately dominate "in the sprint"!  You want the highs and lows of success and disappointment and the camaraderie that goes with it!

So far you are:  Jo Gagnerie, Carey Fenton, Mary Crow, Susan Clark, Vicky Murray, Louise Meyer, Marie-Amelie Serre, Hazel Pushman, Judy Paul, Tracy Huish, Jim Davis...

THE SESSIONS

28 October – Basic Skills Session

An inspirational talk kicked off the first session.  Sue, with tales of riding and winning against the odds, gave insight into what is possible for ladies to achieve.

Practical Session focused on:
   –      riding around "at pace"
   –      riding in and out of corners "at speed" 
   –      riding closer to wheels "in front and side by side"
   –      track etiquette / terminology

RECAP  FROM BASIC SKILLS SESSION
Cornering – Take the bend using the Apex, choose the best line, have confidence to take the corner "at speed".  Look ahead and when at speed use the drops!
How do I know I have improved?   On club runs or when riding with others you should notice you do not fall behind or have to work hard to catch up after some of the sharper corners. 

Following the Wheel – Choose the wheel you are following carefully, once chosen follow with confidence!  Keep close to make the most of the slipstream – in racing energy conservation is key.  Concentrate!
How do I know I have improved? On club runs or when riding with others you should notice you are riding closer and are comfortable being closer to the rider in front.  If wearing a HRM you may even notice your Heart Rate becomes lower while travelling at the same speed as before.

Confidence in Bike Position and Handling – Adapt your position to your activity!  Use the drops when cornering, descending and going fast – aerodynamically and for bike handling there are benefits.  Stand on the pedals if there are rises and you need to "Power" or "Get on top of the bike".
How do I know I have improved?   Confidence will increase and you will move around the bike a bit more at faster paces, adapting your position to your activity. For example you may find you automatically go down on the drops going down Greve D’Lecq / Hydrangea / La Pulente...

Track Etiquette / Terminology - Things you will hear on the track!  
    -       Advice / instruction eg alert of danger
   -       @!"$£%@!!! 
   -       On your left / on your right.  Hold your line = most important
   -       Hold the wheel / stay on the wheel 
   -       General rule - Don’t speak – keep your energy!

10 November – Building Blocks

Sue kicked off setting out the differences between ladies racing in ladies only vs mixed races.  Remember to Keep Your Weaknesses Secret, even from your Best Mate! 

The practical session built on the skills taught in the last session and introduced some new skills:
   -       "Through and Off" 
   -       "Making a break"
   -       "Sprinting"

Through and Off – Key being smooth riding, continuous changing round and when you get to the front to Slow Down a little so the pace keeps controlled.  Practice is key so why not form a group and give it a shot – can be done on the road as well as the track..just keep it controlled.

Making a Break – Drop back slightly from the group and kick off on the opposite side of the track from the group just after a strong rider has finished their "turn" at the front...Picking a good gear is crucial as is the element of surprise! 

Sprinting – Picking a good gear, standing while you sprint, keeping your line.  Power!  Practice is key!

Interesting in coming along to the next sessions?  Call / text Jim on 07797 749585.