Race Prep
I always get nervous before a race, it doesn’t matter what level. I’m not sure why I get so nervous, probably because I want to do well. But I guess those pre-race nerves are what keeps it exciting and gives you that race buzz, otherwise why do we do it? (Surely not for the pain?)
With the tour series being such an iconic race nerves were definitely at the max. I didn’t want to enter the race with too high expectations as you never know how it was going to go. I wanted to do well but kept trying to remind myself that the level of some of the riders is just insane and I just need to enjoy it (easier said than done).
The race
As you would expect of the tour series it is basically an all-out effort for the full hour and 15 minutes. The pace is being pushed right from the first lap with riders going hard to establish their position within the group. I really wanted to work on my positioning to try and be further up the field, but this was not an easy task in such a strong field of women.
I worked hard to stay in the group but with the pace so hard and the course so technical, it was not long at all before it started to split up. I then just had to stay in for as long as possible. Cornering is not my strong suit, so I found I was having to sprint back in after every bend, which definitely took a toll on my legs!
Overall, it was absolutely brutal! A great experience which allowed me to practice my cornering at the least, but definitely one of the hardest races I’ve done.
My result
My result was not where I wanted to be coming in 47th, however I have to refocus and remember where I came from and that progress takes time. This level of racing is far beyond where I ever imagined I would achieve, especially in such a short space of time, so I need to focus on the improvements and not beat myself up on where I want to be.
Emily x
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