Feature: Newport Velodrome
We split into two groups and moved on to some exercises that replicated some of the racing disciplines that feature on the track. First of all we had a go at trying a team pursuit, following each other as closely as possible around the blue line, before the lead rider swung out, staying high around a corner, before rejoining at the rear of the group. This was easily my favourite exercise of the
session.At times my group felt really in synch and in control. It gave just a small indication of the teamwork and communication that is vital to a successful pursuit team, as well as the rewarding feeling when it goes to plan. I loved it. “Excellent,” was John's verdict from the edge of the track.
Then we tried half lap gains, again in two groups. Here, on the blowing of a whistle, the lead rider of both groups had to sprint to the back of the group in front. It was hard work and, tiring fast, I didn't last long. It was a similar story in the elimination race, which will be part of the Omnium in this summer's Olympic games. I was first to be eliminated – not my event I thought.
But it didn't matter. I was just enjoying the new experience and of course I had the timed lap to focus on.
And so to the flying timed 200m sprint.We were given one lap to get onto the track and one lap to build up speed, before starting the timed sprint. John gave us pointers on the lines to take, when to build up speed and how to time the dive down to sprinter's
line.All of which were ringing in my mind as I took to the track to set my time.
Photograph©The Cycling Post
Sir Chris Hoy could do nearly two laps in the time it takes me to "sprint" 200m
So how did I do?Well, to put my time in context, Sir Chris Hoy normally records a time in the region of 10 seconds for a flying 200m. Perhaps unsurprisingly I didn't really challenge this mark. In fact, if truth be told, our nation's top sprinter could nearly do another lap in the 16.6 seconds it took me to travel the 200m from start to finish points. And I really was going as fast as I possibly dared. I fear I might never be a sprinter, just as well there's always the team pursuit to target. Now that's a race I could develop a taste for.
The Wales National Velodrome at Newport offers track sessions for all abilities. Go to
www.newport.gov.uk and follow the community, living and leisure link.
For more information on the courses and services offered by Sports Coaching go to
www.sports-coaching.com
Ateam pursuit goes badly wrong
Photograph©The Cycling Post
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