Exploring off-road
I’ve been exploring new places on my new CX bike funded by Bott and Co which has been so much fun; it is helping me improve bike handling and gives me so many more options for riding as the weather is getting worse in winter.
I had my first Cyclocross race on 2nd January which was great fun! After a lie down on the practice lap, I was honestly terrified on the start line wondering what I got myself in for. However, I got chatting with other women racing on the start line (33 total started the race!) who helped to ease my nerves and once I got pedalling.
I absolutely loved every minute of the race. My technical skills are definitely lacking but it was nice to just focus on my own race and improving a little bit on each lap. I would 10/10 recommend having a go at CX- I will be back for more next winter when the season starts!
New coach
I’ve also made the decision to move to a new coach, Tom Townsend from Downing Cycling.
Previously a tennis player too, Tom really understands the transition from one sport to the other and has probably been through most experiences I’m going to have in cycling.
It’s great to have him as my first point of call, he’s helping me to understand the motives behind the training which makes it much easier to get out of the door when it’s pouring with rain. Being a student at Durham too, it has the added bonus of being able to ride together and get one-to-one tips.
I’m going into the final few months’ work of my degree, and I definitely feel ready to finish studying; I’ve had pressured exams every summer since I was 15 and I think it’s about time for me to take a break.
I’m looking forward to doing my last exam in May and having the summer to just focus on cycling and the unique opportunities I’ve been given by SKODA.
I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has helped me this year; the support I’ve received has been really appreciated. Who knows where two wheels will take me but I know I’ll enjoy the journey and I’m excited to see where I can end up in the sport.