Tuesday Night Cycling Race

Over the summer the Kapiti Cycling Club hold a 40 km [25 mile] handicapped race on Tuesdays at 6:00 with the slower rides starting ahead of the faster riders.

Lea came along for the first time to see me compete and she is quite a hand with the camera.

Through her photos I will give a brief account of my race.

It was a warm sunny evening Tuesday when I arrived at the starting point of the weekly 40 km race.

The first preparation was to check that my tyres were fully inflated.

After ensuring I had helmet and gloves on and water bottle I set off for a short warm up.

I quickly registered and found I was in the third fastest group though I felt I should be in the second fastest. I had not raced for 6 weeks so it was suggested I take the conservative approach.

At 6:20 I positioned myself at the starting line.

At 6:22 I was off.

After one lap of 4 I was into my work and was maintaining a steady pace and was feeling comfortable.

The pace increased considerably on the fourth and final lap with my top speed reaching 48 kph [30 miles]. Not bad since that speed was reached on the flat.

Approaching the finish line I had hit the front of my group only to have my wheel passed on the line.

I was extremely happy to complete the race in 64:21. More pleasing than the time was how strong I felt and how I had lead the group far more than my share.

Thank you Lea for your support and great camera work.

Can't wait until next Tuesday where I will join the next group up.