By Stuart Thompson - Andover Wheelers
Well winter is upon us once again but I'm sure before you know it the racing season will be here. One of my aims for 2002 will be to encourage the members of the Wheelers to have a go at Road Racing.
There will be a regular few wheelers representing the club in Road Races next year, myself, Phil Jacobs and Steve Bungay, who would all be more than willing to help or give advice to anyone who wishes.
You don't need an expensive bike or kit, any reasonable bike that works well will do, but STI levers are highly recommended, and don't forget a helmet!
I'd recommend joining the BCF which would allow you to race in most races in the UK. You start off as a 4th category rider but as you accumulate points can work your way up. Points go down to 6th to 20th place depending on the distance, so you don't have to win races to get them.
The other option is to join The League International(TLI) or the Surrey League(day licences are available), both are cheap and not as serious as the BCF. TLI hold regular circuit races at Barnsfield Heath near Ringwood during the racing season on a Thursday evening. These are excellent for novices, the field is split up into ability or age categories and starts a minute apart which in the end mostly comes together for the sprint finish.
You don't have to be super fit but you do need a bit of fitness and some experience of riding in a group. The West Portway chaingang on Tuesday nights(1800 to 1915 approx) is ideal training for Road Racing, it is steady and stays together. The last 5 laps are counted down and its everyman for himself on the last lap with the sprint at the top of the hill, this adds a bit of fun to the end of the ride.
All in all if you are a Tester or Mountain Biker you will benefit from Road Racing and I'm sure once you have tried it there will be no stopping you.
If anyone is interested in Road Racing next year or even wants to come and watch to see what it's all about (We could always do with someone handing out bottles!) please give me a call.