East London Velo Crit, Redbridge - Race Report
On the 12th February, it was my first race of 2022 and for Brother UK Orientation-Marketing. After having a very disruptive winter training due to having Covid, Surgery, and 3 other illnesses back to back, I knew my form wouldn’t be 100%. So I used this race as a benchmark to see how I can improve and where my strengths are currently at.
Photo Credit : Jeremy Greenwood
“After having Covid and then surgery disrupting training through the winter it was exciting to be back on the start line and learn what I need to work on.”
The first lap was very fast paced and I managed to stick in until the climb, ‘the Hoggenberg’. On a normal day I would be in the front end of the race or in a breakaway but on this particular day I struggled more than I expected. I couldn’t stay with the leaders then found myself in no man’s land, with the gap between me and the leaders increasing. At this point I had to ride solo and try and catch up with riders in front. This was made difficult with the strong crosswinds at the very top of the climb. It felt like there wasn’t much recovery with the climbs and crosswinds. However, I managed to finish 5th which I was satisfied with, considering I didn’t have the winter training I’d hoped for and with the weather conditions.
“Even though the race didn’t go how I would have hoped, I am trusting the process and enjoying getting back to racing.”
It was nice to get a race in the legs, while also wearing Team OnForms colours! I hope to continue to improve and find some form soon!
Photo Credit: Jeremy Greenwood
AMY HARVEY