Les Ingman Memorial RR

2 July 2006

The more I think about this race the more satisfied I am with my result (9th). There was a quality field there and it was hot (bloody hot), but I felt strong and had no problems with the hills or the heat. If I need to find an area of weakness yesterday then it was my tactics. It only takes 2 mins for a small race-winning break to disappear. This is what happened. For most of the race I was never more than 10th from the front, but just for a moment I slipped back and they were gone.

The PCA guys were very dominant and had a good game plan. They had a man for each attack ensuring that they never missed a beat. Then, there was Malcolm (Elliot) who waited patiently for his turn... and when it came he went.... and won the race. Well done to them. I think if I had a few more team mates there we would have made a good challenge of it. I suppose, though, it was nice to just be left alone. Afterall, my plan was not to be too aggresive, but to rather see how my form was doing for next weekend (Ryedale Classic RR). The last 2 weeks have been challenging for me... chest infection, blocked and infected sinuses and 15 sutures in my chest/neck, which come out on Friday. And, with the doc appointments last week I had a disruptive training week. So, as you can see my result was that bad. Now I'm feeling better ;-)

Stats:
Distance: 143 km
Time: 03:44
HR: 164/193 bpm
Temp: 30 ave.
Ascent: 1610 m

Results:
1. Malcolm Elliot
2. Rob Hurd
3. Daniel Lloyd
9. Rob Enslin

More:

British Cycling report
London Cycle Sport report