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Cycling Race

Drew RobinsonDrew Robinson
in General Training Discussions
What is everyone's thoughts on doing a few cycling races prior to tri season? I am debating on doing a 25 mile race this Sunday. Would this be detrimental to my training? I could see it being quite enjoyable and would fulfill part of my two hour ride that day. It would be my first cycling race btw.

Comments

  • jdizzlejdizzle
    Do it!!
  • manninj1manninj1
    Go for it. Most of the races are pretty short and I don't think they'll impact you much. I'm primarily a roadie and plan to do about 8 bike races prior to IMLP as part of my weekend rides. We've got a 10 time Kona finisher with multiple AG podiums on my cycling team. She often does a race and then continues on for her training ride.

    If your new to bike racing I'd recommend taking it easy in your first race. Stay on the back, avoid trouble and just get a feel for how it all works. It is very different than what you are used to in triathlon. Also, I'd avoid criteriums until you build some racing experience. There are often crashes, particularly in Cat IV-V races and you don't want to lose your season to a broken bone for a race you were doing just for fun.

    Road races and time trials can be a great time and a good way to push yourself/test your fitness. Enjoy and have fun!
  • cgres123cgres123
    Have fun with your fitness, go for it.
  • CarlCarl
    DO it....My first one is next weekend also. Been hitting it all winter for these monsters now its time to shine like a .........
  • John WithrowJohn Withrow
    I'm doing two of them this yr in the spring. About ~70 miles each. I'm nervous and excited at the same time. I think it will be great for my fitness, not a detriment. We're doing all this stuff for fun after all... My goals for these bike races are, in order:

    1) don't get hurt
    2) don't wreck
    3) turn myself inside out
    4) have fun
    5) stay with the main group as long as possible
    6) if I fail at #5, stay with whatever group I can find as long as possible
  • Drew RobinsonDrew Robinson
    Thanks everyone! I just wanted to make sure I wasn't crazy to want to do this. I have watched quite a few road races around the KC area and a large number of members of my group ride race so those rides typically feel like a race. I'll keep everyone posted on my first CAT V experience!
  • John WithrowJohn Withrow
    @Drew-- any update on the road races? Curious to hear how they went or are going... Some of us from the Team around NJ are doing a 79miler tomorrow...
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