As the starter call’s your number you roll up to the start line as you watch the previous rider disappear into the distance. Seems like the wind is picking up the closer it gets to your ride.
The starter calls 30 seconds to go and it times to get your thoughts together, ahead of you lies ‘the race of truth’. The only person who can affect the outcome of your race is you.
The pusher-off holds your bike and you clip into your pedals and your ready to go. 15 secs to go, you glance down and check that you in the right gear. It’s you against the clock.
10secs heart really starting to beat – seems like an age 5..4…3…2…1 and your off. Your up to speed and you need to settle into a rhythm and manage your effort making sure you cover the course as quickly as you can.
By half way and your breathing deeply and your legs are beginning to burn, a glance down at your speedo and it’s time to knuckle down and give everything you can in getting home.
As you pass the finish line you just manage to call your number to the time keeper and you can begin to relax. Legs screaming, lungs hanging over the bars you allow yourself a small smile as it’s over.
It’s back to the HQ with a feeling of satisfaction with endorphins flying round your system. It’s time to swap stories of your heroics and to explain to other competitors how the wind was stronger on your run.
Then it’s results time, how have I done? Is this a PB, how has everyone else done? Whatever happens I bet you’ll be back for another one.
Then it’s time for a piece of cake and to again tell everyone how strong the wind was on your run.
So what do you need to try a time trial, a carbon time trial bike, carbon aero wheels, an aero helmet, super human strength and endurance?? Not really, although all would help you go faster.
A road worthy bike and a helmet will get you started. A 10mile flat course, such as the Welshpool 10 would be within the reach of most people of average fitness.
This is racing in it’s simplest form, you against the clock. Compare yourself with others, challenge your mates, or just challenge yourself to improve throughout the season.
Go on give it a go the following riders took part for the 1st time last week and this is what they thought-
I did my first TT last night, I wasn’t sure where I would come and seeing some of the expensive TT bikes out there and the short time I have been riding, I wasn’t expecting a great time but once the time came and I was off it was just about you and doing the best time you can, keeping your pace up and to keeping it going to the end. I was pleased with my effort and managed a respectable time for my first event. I cant wait for the next one and now having a time set, will be trying to improve on it for the next one (Bryn Davies).
First tt last night, needed a little encouragement as i felt i was a bit old, nervous going to start but everyone was great and made me feel more relaxed and very welcome, within three pedal strokes my chain came off, put it back on and rode my heart out i really felt part of the event, could have done better but left very happy with a promise to return and do better! Hopefully, highly recommended, thanks to everyone concerned. (Mal Davies)
Entered my first TT on Wednesday night, wasn’t really sure what to expect and was a little nervous. Everyone at the club was very supportive and I can honestly say I really enjoyed it. Would even go as far as saying its quite addictive and looking forward to the next one. Thanks to everyone who organised the event (Nigel Evans)